The brass revolving doors turned smoothly, leading Lin Mo and his group into the heated grand lobby of the Baicao Immortal Pavilion.
A wave of rich, perfumed warmth washed over them.
The floor was paved with milky-white jade tiles that shimmered with faint spiritual illumination. Massive crystal chandeliers hung from the twenty-meter ceiling, casting sparkling light over rows of gilded mahogany display cases.
Along the marble walls, glass cases showcased dried spirit roots, bottles of sparkling elixirs, and silver acupuncture sets.
Several young masters from the Capital Chaebols lounged on velvet sofas, sipping iced plum wine while attendants in silk dresses fanned them with fragrant peacock feathers.
When Lin Mo entered the hall, the atmosphere shifted instantly.
Behind Lin Mo walked Tie Niu in his rugged leather jacket, Tang Xiaomi in her patched shoes holding her bamboo basket, and Han Tie in his torn, blood-stained armor. To the wealthy patrons, they looked like beggars who had accidentally wandered onto a royal banquet stage.
The clerks behind the counters stopped their chatter, exchanging disdainful glances.
