As time passed, Northern Barbarians appeared around Beast Mouth Fortress with increasing frequency, and every appearance brought an undercurrent of tension.
Gradually, they stopped taking the initiative to trade supplies with the North Wind Territory, rendering Ang's earlier decision to halt trade with the Northern Barbarians ineffective.
Commerce throughout the region became even more depressed. Though not many Northern Barbarians appeared, their imposing presence made many adventurers fearful, especially those who had once dared to venture deep into the Northern Savage Lands.
As those adventurers retreated, the taverns, shops, and inns of Northern Savage Town began to overflow with people. And where there were people, trouble soon followed.
On a gloomy afternoon, Ang sat in Northern Savage Town's main administrative hall. He looked out the window and gently rubbed his temples, seeming to have a terrible headache.
The townspeople gradually grew restless, and the adventurers became increasingly irritable. Noisy commotions often erupted from the taverns, while shopkeepers complained endlessly.
Ang had just received a report that several drunk adventurers had caused trouble in a tavern, and two of them had nearly died in the brawl. The situation was worsening, forcing Ang to send people to intervene.
"These adventurers have been far too violent lately." Sloc entered with anxiety in his voice. "Several adventurers got drunk and caused trouble in a tavern. The situation nearly spiraled out of control."
Ang set down the documents in his hand, his brows tightly furrowed. "Have all the troublemakers been arrested?"
"They have, my lord." Sloc nodded, a hint of relief in his tone. "However, the atmosphere in town is getting worse. Some shop owners are even considering selling their businesses and leaving Northern Savage Town!"
"For those causing trouble, fine the minor offenders. For serious cases, administer public flogging." Ang's voice was calm and