The tavern stood just north of the city center. Its lanterns could be seen from two streets away, warm yellow light spilling from the wooden-framed windows along with the lively murmur of voices.
With Boer leading the way, the group rounded a street corner, and the tavern came fully into view. It was much larger than the ones in Bronze City.
The whole building was wooden and three stories tall, with thick beams and pillars painted dark brown. A carved wooden sign hung above the entrance, its lettering gleaming beneath the hanging lanterns.
Half-human-height clay jars stood on either side of the entrance, each holding several unknown vines whose leaves swayed gently in the night breeze.
The moment they pushed open the door, a fresh fragrance washed over them—the scent of grass and wood, without even the slightest trace of alcohol.
Lu Yuan swept his gaze around. Several potted plants sat by the walls and pillars, their broad, thick leaves giving off a cool, sweet fragrance that completely suppressed the tavern's Turbid Qi.
The taverns in Bronze City were always filled with a sour, pungent smell, with spilled liquor and sweat mixed together. Sitting there too long made people uncomfortable. There was none of that here. The air was so clean it felt as though they had entered the wrong place.
The first-floor hall was spacious and bright, with more than twenty tables, most of them occupied. Groups of three or five drinkers gathered to drink and chat, their voices far from quiet but not rowdy. Laughter and clinking cups mingled together in a lively yet grounded atmosphere.
Boer had sharp eyes. The instant he entered, he waved toward a cluster of empty tables in the corner.
"Over there. Enough room."
The group surged over in a rush. More than