Winter in Xianchun's tenth year came earlier than in previous years. As soon as the reeds at Hanjiang Ferry turned white with frost, the first snowfall was blown down by the north wind, covering the official road outside Lin'an City tightly. When Shen Qingwu tightened the reins of "Treading Snow", half an inch of snow had accumulated on his cloak, and the ice particles condensed on the tips of his hair turned into white mist with his breath, blurring his vision ahead.
"Miss, Wangjiangyi is just ahead. Let's go in to avoid the wind and snow?" Shen Zhong, an old servant accompanying him, wrapped his cotton-padded jacket tightly and his voice trembled in the cold wind. The horse he was holding carried a heavy brocade box on its back. It was a military report sent to the Privy Council by the Zhenguo General's Office. It was also an important task for Shen Qingwu during his trip.
