Stars in Ashes

The mist flows on the stone road, like a wriggling creature under the moonlight. Astra stepped through the stagnant water and walked through the narrow alleys of Xicheng District. The leather boots under my feet were soaked through, and the chill of early winter was creeping up my toes. But he couldn't care less. The pocket watch ticked, and there were only thirteen minutes left until midnight. "The sacrifices must be prepared before the wheel of time turns." The old man's words echoed in his ears.