Great Xia, Year 13, early June 10th
The sky was just beginning to dawn, and pedestrians were returning home one after another.
The bustling Xia City gradually fell into silence, with more and more rooftop chimneys starting to emit thick white smoke—a clear sign that the open fires inside the houses had been replaced by coal stoves.
The people of Xia City switch to burning coal stoves at daybreak for three reasons:
First, to ensure temperature, as the temperature drops significantly after daybreak, and the heat from ordinary fire sources is insufficient; only burning coal can maintain indoor temperatures;
Second, people sleep during the day, so households do not need open flames;
Thirdly, for safety considerations, as Cold Beasts and Deceitful Monsters are drawn to light. However, this reason is less valid now, as Xia City hasn't faced attacks from monsters or beasts for many years, and given the current pace of development, it likely won't for many more.
