Chapter 125: Teahouse
Outside The Great Trial of Water Crest, numerous organizations still had representatives gathered around. They were there to await the return of their disciples.
It wasn’t a rare scene, as these organizations often had a history with each other. It would be unthinkable to leave their talented future generation vulnerable to the malice of their enemies.
At the same time, they gathered to collect information with each other. Unlike in the modern world, the sects didn’t have diplomats stationed in each other’s territory. A chance to communicate with their peers and acquire intelligence was too good to pass up on. That was why, while they each had their own camp set up, they also had one central hub, where the elders from various organizations gathered.
It was a simple teahouse that one would see in any town. No one would blink an eye at it if not for how out of place it was, existing outside any permanent settlements. However, for the cultivators present, it was nothing special. It simply meant a qualified woodsmith had applied their expertise.
The atmosphere inside this teahouse varied depending on the floor.
On the first floor, many sat around and chatted while sipping on their drinks. The only thing missing from a usual teahouse was a storyteller.
The second floor was slightly less boisterous. It was where the private rooms were, for when they needed to discuss matters requiring discretion.
As for the third floor, it was much quieter. As if there was an invisible barrier that blocked out all the sound from below. It was eerily silent. That was because it was designed that way. It was where cultivators could cultivate in earnest, free from any distractions. While the cultivators could return to their own organization’s camp, it was simply more convenient if they planned on staying around.
As it was currently noon, most of the people within this establishment gathered on the first floor.
While they merrily drank their beverage of choice, a discourse had once again broken out.
“Old An, I heard another one of your disciples had just been kicked out yesterday! That means you owe me that bottle of hundred-year White Blossom Wine!”
“You old snake. You’ve been eyeing my wine for all these years, so how can I know you didn’t order your disciples to play any tricks? I’m calling this bet off!”