Winter noon was the liveliest time of day.
Especially in Beta Town.
Even in Beta Town North District, known as the Hollow District, this rule still held true. Of course, the crowds outside the window might also have been due to the area's proximity to the docks, city hall, and departments like the Trident Sword.
With lunchtime approaching, there were not many people in the café. The few patrons were scattered throughout its corners, keeping to themselves. Combined with the effects of the Magic Barrier, the atmosphere around Zheng Qing felt very welcoming.
Except for the reporter sitting across from him.
Ms. Pulitzer had chosen a corner booth in the café, a four-person table screened off at the front and back. To the left stood a tall floor-to-ceiling window, through which he could see the bustling crowd outside; to the right was a broad aisle, beyond which was a wall painted snowy white. The upper portion of the wall was bare except for several Picture Frames, while the lower portion was covered by reddish-brown wooden wainscoting. Beneath his feet lay a thick red carpet, soft and yielding underfoot, making him feel as though he could not exert any strength.
Much like Zheng Qing felt at that moment.
Before Ms. Pulitzer, he felt vaguely uneasy, as though all his strength had nowhere to go.
"A simple Silence Barrier will ensure our conversation isn't disturbed..." Ms. Pulitzer's voice rang beside Zheng Qing's ear, as though it had crossed a vast soundproof chamber, hollow and distant.
Zheng Qing steadied himself before forcing up his spirits and agreeing, "Very impressive!"
He had been praising the reporter's technique in casting that little spell. It had been silent, yet remarkably effective—truly excellent.
"It's just a simple trick. You'll master it in another two years." Ms. Pulitzer