Leaving Qingwu Mountain's territory and heading west, the barren ridges gradually flattened out.
A perpetually lingering veil of dim, murky light hung at the horizon. There was none of the Upper Realm's clear heavenly radiance; faint dust and smoke drifted through the air. In the distance, a great bluestone city sprawled across the plains, its walls thick and ancient, a layer of gray, turbid qi curling along their ramparts.
Taicang City.
A mid-sized city in the southern Lower Realm, where fish and dragons mingled together. Evil cultivators, Rogue Cultivators, and ordinary townsfolk lived side by side. There were no harsh Divine Court laws to restrain them. Disorderly houses stood everywhere, voices clamored through the streets and alleys, and the smoke of daily life tangled with Yin Balefulness in midair.
The four entered through the city gates. Armored soldiers stood guard, their mail mottled with rust, crude earthen spiritual light lingering around them. They had not even touched the threshold of the Wheel Sea Realm.
"At last, a place fit for people."
Zhao Yan let out a long breath, brushing away the rotten leaves and dust clinging to him. His gaze was frank and fervent as it locked directly onto the tallest pavilion in the city.
Its upturned eaves were traced in gold, its carved windows glowed with warm light, and crowds streamed in and out of its entrance. Even from several hundred meters away, the fragrance of wine could be smelled clearly.
"Moonwatch Tower, the best restaurant in Taicang City." Li Lie sheathed his longsword, a teasing smile tugging at his lips. "The Lower Realm may be lacking in other ways, but its food and drink are far livelier than the Upper Realm's. Don't waste this official assignment."
Without another word, the two seized Qin He from either side and