Wataru and his companions had no idea what had happened to the Welcome Trading Company.
That was why they were so shocked by the gloomy atmosphere that now hung over the place.
The sight of William, who usually greeted customers with his signature booming "Welcome!", standing there devoid of his usual vigor, was almost surreal.
The number of employees working in the shop was noticeably lower, and there were no customers in sight.
Even though this branch primarily served noble clientele, the eerie stillness was unsettling.
"William, what happened?"
"Ah, it's embarrassing to admit, but things have taken a turn for the worse. Wataru-sama, this matter concerns you as well. Let's move somewhere more private."
"Understood."
There were likely things he couldn't say in public.
Still, seeing William so utterly drained was painful to witness.
"This... this isn't 'Welcome' at all..."
"Sister..."
Air looked especially downcast, clearly shaken by the change in William.
