Night fell like a slow, heavy blanket.
The compound lights brightened outside, while dimming to avoid disturbing those getting last-minute rest. Only the glow of oil lanterns hanging on the walls guides people along the dark streets.
For those that remained awake, only the smell of oil and gunmetal in the air, alongside the faint smoke from the inner block where the last meals bubbled in the massive vats for when the fighting began.
I leaned against the railing of the tower and observed the ruined city.
It looked like those charity adverts with broken buildings, damaged cars and hungry orphans in the streets. No movement yet, but there was no comfort because the faint rumbling and quakes of the ground reminded everyone of the situation.
"This is going to be a long day..."
Behind me, a door opened with a quiet click.
Tang Wei stepped onto the rooftop, boots tapping the steel and concrete.
