Phungrei City [2]

The old innkeeper peeked past the iron shoulder of a Gu guard, lips pale, eyes wide with the dread.

Fang Yuan didn't even glance at him. He reached calmly into his robe.

Clink. Clink. Clink.

Ten gold coins dropped onto the table with a soft, deliberate jingle. The sound landed heavier than thunder in the dead-quiet room.

Fang Yuan offered a warm, measured smile.

"Old man, that was the best meal I've had in years. I'll come back again sometime."

Silence.

You could hear a chopstick drop.

Ten gold coins. Enough to buy the entire inn along with the servants... Twice!

The innkeeper's jaw worked soundlessly before he stumbled forward, legs half-collapsing with every step.

"S-sir! Thank you! May your ancestors ascend to the heavens! May your digestion remain strong through ten thousand meals!"