Mr. Sheng's desire to reach his destination grew more urgent, and he pressed the accelerator with increasing force, causing the car's speed to surge.
By the time Mr. Sheng reached the airport near County A from Capital International Airport, it was already twelve o'clock noon. Since the location was further south, the temperature was much higher than in Beijing. Mr. Sheng took off his overcoat and hailed a taxi. After getting in, the driver inquired, "Where to, sir?"
Without any hesitation, Mr. Sheng said, "County A."
The taxi driver sized up Mr. Sheng doubtfully, his expression akin to seeing a monster. "Sir, you must be joking," he said. "It's at least a five-hour drive from here to County A. Besides, there's been an earthquake there. To avoid interfering with the national rescue paths, ordinary people like us are not allowed to go."
