Night fell quietly over Lion City.
By the time darkness fully settled, the NPC workers had finally completed the construction of the tavern.
The building stood proudly near the central square, its wooden exterior illuminated by torches mounted along the walls.
Warm light spilled out through the open doors, accompanied by the sound of laughter, chatter, and clinking mugs.
The city's mood shifted almost instantly.
Team members gathered inside, eager to relax after days of tension and constant vigilance. For many of them, this was the first real place of leisure since arriving in the desert.
Drinks were freely available—no payment required—which alone was enough to lift everyone's spirits.
At least, at first.
The moment the drinks touched their lips, expressions began to change.
The so-called beer served by the tavern was… terrible.
