Koala Reads

"It was out of the question not to go. Song Huaizhi thought of that land, so different from this place. It was the most prosperous place in the world, unlike the tranquility of the small town. Early in the morning, merchants would be waiting at the city gate, brimming with anticipation and ambition. They were eager to make a fortune in this city or to settle down and become part of this prosperity."

"Moving further in were those who had lived here for generations. Powerful families were everywhere. The nobles and officials in the capital were as numerous as the stars in the sky. Perhaps the person you just brushed past on the street was a well - known minister. In the court, the situation was ever - changing. A single casual remark from someone might determine the fates of countless people thousands of miles away."

"Every time Song Huaizhi stepped into that place, he would feel a sense of inescapable fate. He would gaze at the imposing but time - worn city gate for a long time. It was like a cage, confining countless people within."

"But how could he not go back? If he stayed here, he would be nothing but an ant to those people. They could crush him with a flick of their fingers."