The Black Stone Mine loomed on the southern outskirts of the Imperial Capital like a massive, festering scar.
The biting wind of late autumn swirled with coal dust and the scent of rust, sweeping across the barren ridges. Withered, yellowed weeds swayed weakly at the mouth of the mine shaft, resembling the outstretched arms of a dying man.
The enormous pit gaped like the open maw of hell, bottomless and dark, faintly transmitting dull thuds and muffled, suppressed coughs and groans.
Chapter 69