The tavern where Xiang Yang had invited Sun Tao for drinks stood around a corner behind Nether Street. Its scale and construction were quite ordinary; the only thing worth praising was its wide variety of clear, strong wines—a paradise for lovers of drink.
Leading Sun Tao into the tavern, Xiang Yang was recognized by the serving boy, who took the two of them to a private room on the second floor. A large table was laden with food and wine, meat and vegetables paired together, complete in color, aroma, and flavor. The enticing fragrance of wine immediately stirred the craving worms in Sun Tao's belly.
After dismissing the serving boy, Xiang Yang and Sun Tao took their seats. For a moment, the atmosphere was somewhat awkward. After all, it was their first meeting; they had been complete strangers before this. It would have been strange if they had acted familiar.
"Master Sun, please forgive my presumptuous invitation. I'll punish myself with a cup first. Please drink as you please."
Xiang Yang's eyes shifted. He lifted the cup brimming with clear wine, putting on an embarrassed expression. Then he raised it, tipped back his head, and drained it in one gulp. The fiery heat of the strong liquor spread from his mouth and throat through his entire body.
Sun Tao did not care much. Sitting ramrod straight with a solemn face, he stared directly at Xiang Yang. He poured himself a cup and drank it before speaking.
"Constable Xiang, we have never met before. If you have something to say, say it directly. I, Sun Tao, am a rough man and don't understand all those twists and turns. If there's anything I can help with, I certainly won't refuse."
Setting down his cup and wiping the corner of his mouth, Xiang