Chapter 195: Orange Tree Tavern Players moved with purpose along the shoreline. Some carried delicate decorations, carefully placing them to enhance the natural beauty of the beach.
Others were busy arranging rows of chairs, their careful alignment ensuring a perfect view of the impending ceremony.
A team of dedicated guild members worked diligently, stringing fairy lights between palm trees and setting up enchanting lanterns that would illuminate the beach as the sun dipped below the horizon.
Flower arrangements boasting a spectrum of hues adorned arches and pathways, infusing the atmosphere with a fragrant, colorful allure.
The guild’s emblem, a graceful wisp encased in a delicate glow, was visible on banners fluttering in the gentle breeze.
Members of Serenity Wisp, identifiable by their matching armor and air of confidence, coordinated the event to perfection.
Laughter and excited chatter filled the air as players mingled, their avatars expressing an array of emotions, from joyful smiles to curious glances.
The beach, once a serene expanse of sand and sea, had transformed into a bustling social space, alive with the energy of anticipation.
With the sun casting a warm, golden glow across the scene, the ambiance was nothing short of magical. The gentle lapping of waves provided a soothing soundtrack to the preparations, adding to the overall sense of tranquility and excitement that permeated the air.
As the final touches were put in place, the beach now stood ready, a picturesque backdrop for the wedding ceremony that promised to be a memorable event on this day.
Xin couldn’t help but wonder about the extravagant sum Tristan and Tiffany must have spent on this beach wedding. The idea that their expenses were sky-high would make his revenge all the sweetest.
The choice of a beach venue was a stroke of luck for Xin. It simplified his plan considerably.
Xin decided to wait in the Orange Tree Tavern since the bride and groom hadn’t shown themselves yet.
As he strolled along the shore, a peculiar structure came into view in the distance. It resembled a massive, shipwrecked galleon crowned with a sprawling tree bearing vibrant orange fruits on its deck.
Laughter, music, and the aroma of rich smoke wafted toward him, emanating from this peculiar building.
A prominent sign outside proclaimed: "Orange Tree Tavern –– Obey the Rules or Face the Consequences."
From what Xin had heard, this tavern was a haven for the "civilized," a place where people gathered to share tantalizing gossip, indulge in quality rum, savor decent food, and endure less-than-desirable company.
The tavern’s name derived from the remarkable magic orange tree that grew in the heart of the shipwrecked structure, providing a continuous supply of delicious fruit to the patrons.
According to old legends, there was a time when the tides were so high that ships could sail over the mountains. During the Great Undertow, many ships ventured too far from the sea, only to be wrecked when the massive waves receded, leaving them stranded on the land they had once sailed upon.
The Orange Tree Tavern stood as a relic of those turbulent times, a testament to both the sea’s might and the resilience of those who survived.
Amidst the legends surrounding the Orange Tree Tavern, one tale stood out: it was said that a ship carrying a magic seed of unknown origin had met its fate in the sea’s unpredictable hands.
From the wreckage of this nameless vessel, the enchanting orange tree had sprung to life, weaving its magic into the lore of the place.
Other accounts were less mystical, suggesting that the tavern’s peculiar origin was the result of a terribly botched teleportation spell, which had inexplicably fused the ship with a random tree on the coast.
Despite its chaotic origins, the tavern managed to meet the basic needs of its patrons. It offered a bare minimum in services — food, drink, and entertainment were abundant, although not always of the highest quality (except for the consistently excellent rum).
The staff, a motley crew of pirates hailing from various lineages, including some ethereal entities, catered to the diverse clientele.
At the helm of this disorderly establishment was the captivating O.J. Skye, a retired pirate who had decided to breathe life into this shipwrecked relic.
In her earlier days, O.J. had been the captain of a highly lucrative vessel. However, upon discovering the shipwreck, she made a life-altering decision. Opting out of the piracy trade, she chose instead to transform the forsaken site into a haven for wanderers and adventurers.
With her loyal crew by her side, she invested her hard-earned fortune into the tavern’s renovations and furnishings, creating a peculiar yet strangely charming retreat.
O.J., a figure admired by a select few, loved by many, and respected by all, wielded significant influence in the Sunken Shore.
It was common knowledge that staying in her good graces was not just wise but highly recommended.
Inside the Orange Tree Tavern, conflicts often erupted, yet the staff rarely intervened. There were only two unspoken rules when a brawl broke out: no killing and no wanton destruction of property — unless suitable compensation was promptly offered.
Within the tavern’s walls, the atmosphere was consistently lively. Even at odd hours, the place was moderately filled; a few large tables remained vacant.
Regardless of the time, roughly half of the patrons were drunk, attempting to sing sea shanties with slurred words while swaying to an imaginary tune.
After Xin had settled into his seat, a crew member promptly approached to take his order.
Xin, not one for alcoholic beverages, skipped the drinks and chose a seat by the window. From there, he could observe the ongoing wedding ceremony with an unobstructed view.
Meanwhile, the other players engaged in various games with fellow patrons. The tavern hosted the usual array of challenges, including drinking contests and arm wrestling.
Both players and NPCs enthusiastically participated, adding to the lively atmosphere of the Orange Tree Tavern.
However, Xin’s focus remained fixed on the wedding unfolding along the shore.
As the minutes ticked away, anticipation hung thick in the salty sea breeze. The sun, casting a warm golden hue across the shore, seemed to pause as if holding its breath in reverence for the moment about to unfold.