The morning light shone on the spire of the clock tower in Rapids City, and the bell-ringer vigorously tolled the morning bell.
Smoke rose from the chimneys, and the sounds of footsteps, shouting, and splashing water made it seem as if the entire city was yawning.
On the streets of Cross Street, people dressed in various robes of linen, flannel, and blended fabrics, along with beige shirts, were heading towards the Uffizi Palace.
The Saintess festival from yesterday had just ended, and there were still a few bonfires not yet extinguished, yet they had already gathered in front of the Uffizi Palace.
The cool morning breeze brushed against their faces, which, in such a hot summer, made them all show expressions of enjoyment.
These people were not ordinary; they included leading figures from various groups in Rapids City—large merchants, the Chief Justice, master artisans, City Councilors, and representatives of small shop owners.
