The ornate lanterns had just been lit, illuminating a scene of prosperity and alluring beauty.
The nightlife of the Clear Moon Pavilion had only just begun.
Carriages of every description stood at the crossroads, heralding a night of revelry.
The strains of strings and pipes reached their ears, like an out-of-tune serenade.
Jing Yu dragged Li Ping'an inside.
"Why... did you bring me to a place like this?"
"Good question. Just drinking would be so boring."
Jing Yu said.
As soon as they entered, a graceful madam dressed in dazzling finery came forward to greet them.
"Oh, Young Master Yang, it's been so long since your last visit."
Jing Yu laughed heartily. "I was busy for a while. See? I came straight here as soon as I got back."
"Young Master Yang?" Li Ping'an asked, puzzled. "When did you change your name?"
"Come on! Who uses their real name in a place like this?" Jing Yu whispered. "I'm using my eldest senior brother's name."
With that, he grinned wickedly.
Li Ping'an nodded thoughtfully.
Lesson learned. Lesson learned.
The madam leaned toward Li Ping'an. "You look unfamiliar, young master. Is this your first time here? How should I address you?"
Jing Yu was greeting an acquaintance over on the other side and paid no attention to what was happening here.
Li Ping'an hesitated. "Jing Yu."
The madam smiled faintly. "Young master, what a fine name."
Now this-this was putting learning into practice.
They went upstairs to a table beside the railing.
With just a slight dip of the head, they could feast their eyes on the beauties below. Truly, beauty enough to dine on.
"Nice place, isn't it?" Jing Yu said smugly.
The strings and pipes clamored in Li Ping'an's ears, and he found it rather noisy.
Still, credit where it