The carriage arrived in Yeyang before 7 a.m., while the sky was still dark.
The city gates had opened well before dawn. A huge lantern hung on either side, casting a bright glow over the area.
Few people entered the city at this hour. They were all scattered small merchants and vendors, but the gate guards weren't lax in the slightest, inspecting everyone with great care.
After passing through the gates, the vendors had to wait for the market to open before they could file in. Once they finished their business, or before the city gates closed for the night, they would be urged to leave. They were a transient population, unable to set up camp in the city, forced to commute like this every day.
Ji Huan once again felt thankful for her decision to buy the shop.
As usual, when it was their turn, the inspection took longer than it did for others.
Guan Shan removed his conical hat and let them scrutinize him, his eyes showing no hint of emotion.
