Lin Mu, Cattaleya, and Elyon went the opposite direction.
They found a tavern not far from the inn, a broad wooden building with open sides and hanging lanterns that glowed warmly as evening settled in. The place smelled of grilled meat, fermented fruit wine, and spices. It was lively but not rowdy, with clusters of cultivators talking over food and drink.
Lin Mu chose a table near the side, one that allowed a clear view of the room.
As soon as they sat down, attention drifted their way.
Cattaleya was impossible to miss.
At over two meters tall, broad shouldered, and radiating an aura that felt more like a beast than a cultivator, she stood out even among immortals. Conversations quieted briefly. People whispered behind cupped hands.
"Is she a beast kin?"
"That build… maybe?"
"But she looks human."
"There's another beast kin with them. The dark one."
Lin Mu caught fragments of the murmurs without effort. His gaze flicked subtly around the tavern, taking in the faces.
