Finalizing The Deal!

His initial shock gave way to a slight easing of tension as the group settled in. Notably, among the merchants, only David bore the unmistakable air of a seasoned wine trader. The others were unfamiliar, their presence an enigma in the closely-knit circles of Canyon City's business district, a place both expansive and insular, where faces were known, and alliances remembered.

Could there be outsiders? Fisher pondered the possibility but dismissed it almost immediately. The commercial territories were well-established, with each merchant staunchly defending their turf against outsiders. An influx of foreign traders would certainly have stirred up a tempest among the local vintners, yet there had been no such upheaval.

"Master Logan!" the newcomers chorused in greeting, their voices a blend of respect and eagerness.

David the Lion, Gando the fox man, and their companions hastened to greet Logan as they entered the grand hall.