December 23rd, sugar melons stick.
According to customs, this is the day of offering sacrifices to the Kitchen God and dusting, so on this day, every household begins to bustle with activity.
Wealthy families set up large tables with offerings, praying for the Kitchen God's protection.
Families with less money also buy a few sugar melons, as a gesture of their sincerity.
The festive atmosphere becomes increasingly intense starting from this time.
Meanwhile, at the West City Gate of the Commandery, several armored guards huddled around a fire for warmth.
With the cold wind howling and wearing armor, even close to the warm flames, these guards remained chilled to the bone.
Despite this, when large groups of merchants passed through, these guards dutifully stepped forward for inspection.
Some merchants attempted to bribe them with money, but were sternly refused.
However, the guards did not make things difficult; once they confirmed no issues, they allowed passage promptly.
