Snow, falling incessantly.
The ground was no longer visible, only the slick, icy surface that had been compacted by the tread of people and vehicles. Thawing and refreezing several times, an ugly tableau formed, with the white ice mixing haphazardly with the dirty water, freezing together in a pitted mess that was perilous to step on without caution—one misstep could send a person sliding to the ground.
This is the North Ninth District, a place within Jade Skirt where few ventured.
Many abandoned buildings could still be seen along the streets, temporary structures left from the mining boom that were never meant to last. After a decade with no maintenance, they gradually decayed and collapsed under the assault of the rain.
"Whimper, whimper—"