The staff member awkwardly continued breaking the ice block while a group of onlookers watched playfully, as if they were moments away from witnessing a secret being exposed.
The shopkeeper felt the pressure mounting. He was convinced today would end in losses. He couldn't help but shoot a resentful glare at the scar-faced man.
Noticing the hostility, the man met his gaze with smug arrogance, as if to say, "What are you gonna do about it?"
The shopkeeper clenched his teeth in frustration.
Finally, the ice cracked open, revealing a solid lump of hardened resin. Several spectators leaned in with curiosity as the staff broke apart the resin under their watchful eyes.
As it split open, a sharp, distinctive aroma wafted out. Instinctively, some people took a deep breath. The scent was so calming and pleasant that a few let out involuntary, embarrassed sighs of relief.
