The Zhang Clan had gradually disappeared into the crowd, settling into a relatively inconspicuous yet highly placed seat in the central hall. That said, the Zhen Family's lack of male heirs was a disadvantage; otherwise, they could easily have taken a seat closer to the main ones.
"Liu Xuande!" Yuan Shao slowly rose to his feet, taking long strides toward the main hall. Behind him, his civil officials and military generals formed two orderly lines, following closely in his wake.
"Alliance Leader Yuan, it has been a long time." In stark contrast to Yuan Shao's dragon-like majesty and tiger-like vigor as he came to greet him, Liu Bei's demeanor was calm, as if speaking to an acquaintance about their breakfast plans. His expression betrayed almost no emotion.
"Please!" Yuan Shao gestured courteously, leading the way inward. His sharp eyes noticed that Liu Bei's waist bore no sword.
