The Paradise Sect's first day in control of Thistlefort passed smoothly, ensuring even the taverns remained open for business. Everyone involved in the construction teams was paid their wages for the day as promised, leading to an unbelievable sight within the city: despite the widespread rumors of famine, most restaurants, bars, and brothels were packed in the evening. People, having received their handsome pay, indulged in enjoyment and treated themselves as their first order of business.
"How can this be?"
Inside the Baron's mansion, Sergey paced back and forth, feeling an irrepressible blaze of frustration within him. He had never anticipated that things would turn out this way: Before his side had even assembled the people to spread the rumors of famine, the Paradise Sect had already announced the situation, as if in fear that people wouldn't be aware of it.
