CLATTER!
A sudden, chaotic clatter of toppling chairs shattered the tavern's prior silence.
Like a startled flock of birds, the chiefs scrambled to their feet.
In the frantic rush, several chairs were knocked to the ground, scattering and clattering across the wooden floor.
"Feng, you're here!" As expected of a cunning veteran, Chief Welta was the first to compose himself after the initial moment of panic.
He first shot a look at the other tense-looking chiefs, silently telling them to calm down.
Then, a broad smile quickly spread across his face.
His deeply wrinkled face beamed as he greeted Feng Shan with immense warmth.
"What are you all chatting about?" Feng Shan's expression was as calm as ever, as if he hadn't noticed their strange behavior. He wore a look of perfectly feigned curiosity and asked in a relaxed tone.
