The snow continued to fall slowly on Asgard that gray morning, partially covering the industrial rooftops, the railway lines, and the metal towers that grew ever higher above the city's administrative districts. Even early, the distant sound of locomotives already pierced the cold winter air, accompanied by the constant noise of factories working tirelessly. Asgard never seemed to truly sleep now. There were always workers toiling, trains crossing the tracks, or caravans arriving through the city's outer gates. The monstrous expansion continued almost like a living entity growing unchecked.
Inside the main castle, however, the atmosphere was much quieter.
The enormous dining hall was partially warmed by the fireplaces lit near the dark stone walls. The soft morning light streamed through the tall windows while the smell of fresh coffee and hot food filled the air. For the first time in a long time, there was a rare sense of normalcy in that place.
