Snow had fallen on Black Horse Island, and winter arrived. Unlike the competitive atmosphere of previous winters, the island was gradually becoming deserted.
Many plantations were abandoned, and a few small towns were almost uninhabited.
Many workshops had disappeared as well, with only a few places still bustling. One such place was Giant Algae Town near the coast, a significant spot for Magic Potion production, where many Knights and Serfs lived by the Giant Algae Forest. Another was Giant Algae City, the island's seaport open to international trade.
Near Giant Algae City was Thorn Castle. Thomas, as usual, held keys to all the rooms and inspected every room in the castle from top to bottom.
He continued his rounds to the castle's study.
Several young Servants were cleaning the study; upon seeing Thomas, they greeted him, "Mr. Thomas."