Three guides had been hired, but only two men and one guide were present. The group of three clearly did not require so many people, so they borrowed a quiet little room from the tavern owner and spoke with each of the three guides separately.
The dark skinned and thin old man went inside first. After a while, he came out and squatted to the side, quietly smoking his pipe. There was no joy on his face, not even when saying goodbye. It seemed as though he was waiting for some kind of result.
Next, the burly man went inside. He also came out after some time, but he merely sat down casually nearby. He ordered a pot of wine from the tavern owner and drank alone, as if waiting as well.
Finally, the last one entered. It was Lu Chen, a young man.
The room was not large, but it was indeed very
