The port city on Sawei's southern tip was already blanketed in snow. In Taylor's small but orderly basement, Mulan, Evan, and Taylor sat around a little charcoal brazier. Fish slices sizzled with oil on an iron plate laid over it.
"Sawei's winter is especially cold this year. Another homeless man froze to death on the street a few days ago."
Taylor sprinkled a little sea salt over the fish, then picked it up with tongs and placed it in the bowls Mulan and Evan held.
"Mmm, this tastes wonderful."
The fresh flavor and delicate texture blossomed in Evan's and Mulan's mouths, earning praise from both. Even Mulan, who had grown up in a coastal city, had never enjoyed seafood this fresh and pure, prepared so simply yet with such atmosphere. Or perhaps Dierjia was simply too traditional.
After swallowing his fish, Mulan raised a hand to decline the next piece Taylor offered, indicating that he could grill his own. At the same time, he spoke with concern.
"It's not just Sawei. Cape of Desire in southeastern Basman hasn't seen snow in almost a hundred years, but its winter is unusually cold this year too. This isn't a normal natural phenomenon. The abundance and activity of the elements are increasing rapidly."
Evan's expression grew grave. As he seasoned the fish in front of him, he recalled his former nightmare.
"During my baptism on Sacred Mountain, I saw the evil god directly. There were special circumstances involved, but the changes in the world clearly played a part too. Even as the world struggles with all its might, we're drawing closer and closer to chaos."
Just hearing about the baptism on Sacred Mountain made Taylor break out in goosebumps. Evan could already face those memories squarely, but even an association still caused Taylor