Night had slowly fallen, and pale snowflakes drifted down from the sky.
Thick snow had piled up on the mountains and tree branches, adding even more chill to the air.
Not far from the harbor, simple factories stood in neat rows, while many tall buildings in the middle of the island loomed faintly through the wind and snow.
Quite a few people in blue uniforms patrolled along both sides of the road.
On the outskirts of Wave Country, inside the lobby of an inn beside the harbor.
A thin layer of steam filled the room, draping the entire space like a light veil.
As the mist rose, a rich fragrance quietly spread through the room. The aroma created by spices and fresh ingredients tempted the taste buds; even catching a whiff from afar was enough to make one's mouth water.
On this cold winter night, several people sat around a small stove indoors. The fire burned fiercely, casting a warm glow. They were enjoying a delicious hot pot, and as the ingredients bubbled in the pot and sent up wisps of steam, they also released waves of enticing fragrance.
"I never expected that you need a pass just to enter Wave Country now."
An elderly man with graying hair and blue glasses took a light sip of hot tea, his face full of emotion.
"Mm!" A young man swallowed the beef in his mouth and revealed a surprised expression as well.
"I never thought Wave Country would change so much. The last time I came here with the director to scout locations, this place was still quite poor and chaotic. I remember when we were looking for extras, many people said they would do anything as long as they were given food."
"I wonder what could have caused such a