It was October in Terry City.
A cold front swept over the mountains, bringing the chill of approaching winter.
A young man named Carlo pulled his thin coat tight, tucked his hands away, and headed toward the scroll workshop in the Lower City.
Suddenly, as he passed an open stretch beside the river, he noticed a sizable construction site on the opposite bank, near the Mage Tower.
Of all the undeveloped plots in the Upper District, that one enjoyed the best location.
Born a commoner, Carlo had little firsthand understanding of such things. But the news and assorted gossip he often read in the papers told him this was the site being cleared for the "Pearl and Shell Palace."
On the bridge ahead, a long line of laborers waited to enter the Upper District.
They were all new immigrants who had been issued work permits, reportedly recruited mostly from towns and villages throughout the Northsen Territory.
"Lucky country bumpkins. Nearly fifty silver coins a month just for hauling bricks! Makes me want to go too."
"Oh, please. With that scrawny body of yours, you'd break your back."
Several passing citizens discussed it, their voices tinged with envy.
Others were less impressed. "That's hard-earned money. Nothing to envy."
"Exactly. Working in a workshop or sitting in an office is easier and more respectable."
"My sister even got into the Department Store in the Upper District. She's a distinguished saleslady now, and everyone coming and going is rich!"
"Wow, she really must be capable!"
Carl's attention was soon diverted, and for a moment he had no idea what to make of it.
Still, my work involves magic now. I copy scrolls just like those mage gentlemen. Doesn't that make me even more distinguished?
At that thought, Carlo lifted his head and puffed