The sky was roiling with low, lead-grey clouds.
A faint rumble of thunder emanated from the depths of the clouds, foretelling a storm brewing.
The poplar trees on both sides of the suburban road swayed violently in the gusting wind, making a rustling sound.
Squeak—
A silver-grey old minivan slowly pulled over, extinguishing its headlights.
The car door slammed open with a "crash," and a tall, burly figure emerged from the back seat first.
Fatty Hu squinted his eyes against the incoming gust and grumbled in a rough voice:
"Dark night and high winds, perfect weather for murder and arson."
Then he turned around, extending an arm toward a pale-faced young man inside the car:
"Brother, slow down, watch your step."
Li Fei grabbed Fatty Hu's hand and jumped down from the car.
When his feet hit the ground, his body swayed slightly, but his steps were still steady.
Next, a tall figure in a black hooded sweatshirt bent down and disembarked from the car.
