Midnight.

Previously, this would have been the time when the nightlife in Cathay truly kicked into full swing. Unfortunately, the only thing that buzzed in the air was a grave silence and the melancholic note of death. Countless families were huddled together, shivering in fear as they awaited the rays of warm light from dawn that seemed still so far away.

Perhaps the only silver lining was the assurance of a steady source of electricity, unlike the frequent power outages or circuit overhaul exercises that were conducted in the past.

After all, light was the only thing that kept darkness at bay.

Such was the reality for Zhou Mingliang’s family. Zhou Mingliang was born and bred in Valley County. He had just turned seventeen, and also just completed his college entrance examinations. He was eagerly looking forward to the next chapter of his life, not for wealth, but for better safety and security against the unspeakable forces of the dark.

“I’ve heard that there are some big cities out there that don’t even need to impose a curfew at night.” He lay on the couch, staring out of the window at the dark night sky longingly, “I’ve only seen it once before I turned ten. I can barely recall what it was like back then…”

The phone in his hand buzzed with a notification. He glanced at it, only to realize that it was his class WeChat group. Everyone was sending their prayers and well wishes for the night ahead.

We’re just done with our college entrance examinations. We should be meeting up face to face and chatting about our dreams...