Half divine grade artifact

Artifacts are objects imbued with spiritual power and possess various effects. Half divine grade artifacts, like the one being auctioned, are considered extremely powerful and rare.

This particular artifact has been forged using rare materials and infused with compelling spiritual energy. It is capable of causing immense damage and providing special abilities that surpass what ordinary cultivators can achieve.

Typically, such artifacts are owned by sect leaders, powerful elders, or other influential individuals.

"Yes, master!" Xiao Zhu nodded eagerly.

"I'm not sure why the Lin family decided to put an artifact of this grade up for auction, but from my intuition, all I need to do is acquire it for Xiao Zhu and unlock its true potential... hehe," Xiao Feng chuckled.

The artifact possesses a spiritual essence that resonates beyond the lower realm and possibly reaches the divine realm. It is a growth-type artifact that increases in power as the user's cultivation level grows. It forms a spiritual bond, possesses consciousness, and protects the owner's blood while enhancing their cultivation progress.

"Just like the sword given to me by Xuan Ping. What a pity I am still too weak to unlock even a fraction of its potential. But once I tap into the Heavenly Sword Play, it will unlock," Xiao Feng thought to himself.

Without hesitation, Xiao Feng immediately raised the starting bid for the sword to one million gold coins.

... One million and fifty thousand gold coins.

... Two million gold coins!

... Two million and fifty thousand gold coins!

Xiao Zhu was perplexed as to why his master remained silent, but he trusted Xiao Feng's words since he had promised to acquire the artifact for him.

"Xiao Zhu," Xiao Feng called out, glancing at him. "I know you have many thoughts running through your mind right now, but I want you to watch and learn. Look at that man dressed so lavishly," he pointed out to a person seated in a grand position.

"Yes, Little Uncle Xiao. What about him?" Xiao Zhu inquired.

"If you've noticed, he keeps increasing the bid by fifty thousand gold coins. It implies that while he has deep pockets, he is also a meticulous spender. This means he needs the weapon more than anyone here, but he is trying to maximize his spending," Xiao Feng explained.

"Hmm," Xiao Zhu pondered for a moment, continuously observing as the bids continued to rise. However, his genuine interest lay in the sword itself, not the bidders.

... Three million gold coins.

... Three million and fifty thousand gold coins!

The entire crowd gaped at the bidder as others dropped out, leaving only two participants in the bidding war.

"Tell me, what have you observed about the second bidder?" Xiao Feng asked.

"Well, there isn't much to say except that he seems willing to spend any amount to obtain what he desires. A greedy spender," Xiao Zhu stated.

"Hmm, that's true. This situation is nothing more than a duel between cultivators. Neither will back down until the other does," Xiao Feng remarked.

Xiao Zhu understood what his master was trying to explain, but he couldn't contain himself any longer. He let out a sigh and spoke, "But, Little Uncle Xiao, when are you going to place a bid?"

"Huh... Are you sure you understood everything I just said?" Xiao Feng questioned.

"Well, I barely understand," Xiao Zhu admitted.

"In that case, there's no need to worry. Right now, we are the predators, and they are the prey. All we have to do is wait and enjoy the show. Whether the meticulous spender or the greedy spender gets the weapon, we'll double-cross them and reclaim what is rightfully ours," Xiao Feng chuckled.

"But, Master..."

"What! Do you think I was actually willing to spend a single coin on this magnificent sword? No! We'll take the shortest route known... hehe."

Xiao Zhu kept staring at the peculiar expression on Xiao Feng's face, wondering if he had always been this way.

"What? Didn't I just tell you to enjoy the show?" Xiao Feng remarked.

"Yes, Little Uncle Xiao," Xiao Zhu stuttered.

The bidding continued, growing more intense.

... Five million gold coins.

... Five million and fifty thousand gold coins!

The greedy, wealthy bidder started getting furious, questioning who dared to prolong the bidding war with him.

"Master, he is a prominent figure from the Heavenly Sword Sect, and it seems he has numerous skilled guards stationed outside," the steward whispered into Xiao Feng's ear.

"What!" Xiao Feng exclaimed, striking the steward with his right palm. "You foolish steward! You knew this all along, yet you only tell me now?"

The wealthy bidder glanced toward the figure, slightly bowing his head and cupping his fist. "Young master, it appears you truly need this sword more than I do. I will graciously concede it to you," he laughed, attempting to appear friendly.

The figure glanced at him, a friendly smile on their face.

The female auctioneer hit the gavel with a gentle but firm touch. In the end, the young master from the Heavenly Sword Sect won the final bid, obtaining the main artifact of the day at the Lin family auction house.

The female auctioneer congratulated the young master with a warm and genuine smile, her voice filled with genuine happiness.

Each of the goods was sent to their respective owners, and Xiao Feng received the silk glove. Seeing Xiao Zhu's eagerness to put it on immediately, Xiao Feng gently stopped him with a patient smile.

"Not now, Xiao Zhu. You'll be using it to handle the Golden Fiery Sword," he said softly.

"Okay, little uncle Xiao," Xiao Zhu replied obediently.

"Come on, let's go get your sword," Xiao Feng said, his chuckle filled with excitement.

"Yes, master," Xiao Zhu responded with a bright smile, ready to follow his lead.

The Heavenly Sword Sect is known for their exceptional swordsmanship and profound cultivation practices. They are highly respected, second only to the Lin family.

Located in a secluded mountain range, their reputation for strict discipline, unwavering loyalty, and commitment to justice and righteousness precedes them.

Their training primarily focuses on the art of swordplay, where they refine their techniques and harness their inner energy, Qi, to enhance their combat prowess.

But beneath their impressive façade lies something more brutal - the belief that true strength also comes from one's character. Surely, anyone foolish enough to challenge the Heavenly Sword Sect would face a grim fate.

"Young master, it seems someone is following us," a subordinate whispered into the young master's ear, concern evident in his voice.

"Hmm," the young master sighed, deep in thought. "He is doing it on purpose," he explained.

"Sir, what do you mean?" the confused subordinate asked, seeking clarification.

"He wants us to know he's there, yet he remains elusive. Let's continue on our path; when he's ready, he will reveal himself," the young master replied calmly, trusting his instincts.

"Okay, Young master," the subordinate nodded, returning to his position.

...

"Little uncle Xiao, the closer we get, the more mysterious you become. When exactly are we going to retrieve the divine sword?" Xiao Zhu asked, curiosity shining in his eyes.

"We're not stealing, Xiao Zhu. We're merely reclaiming what is rightfully ours," Xiao Feng corrected him gently, his tone patient and understanding.

"But..."

"Just watch and observe, Xiao Zhu. I have my reasons," Xiao Feng interrupted him kindly, wanting to teach him a valuable lesson.

Xiao Zhu stared blankly, realizing that his impatience was indeed a flaw. He took Xiao Feng's words to heart, determined to learn and grow.

"Know yourself and observe your enemy, then you'll come out victorious," Xiao Feng reminded him.

"Yes, little uncle Xiao," Xiao Zhu replied, grateful for the guidance.

"...but remember, you must first know yourself before you can truly understand your enemy," Xiao Feng added with a chuckle.

"I'll keep that in mind," Xiao Zhu replied, a determined expression on his face.

Xuan Ping observed them closely, understanding Xiao Feng's intentions. However, the current situation puzzled him - the young master of the Heavenly Sword Sect seemed hesitant to make a move.

Xiao Feng grew restless from the lack of action. Looking at Xiao Zhu, he couldn't help but suggest some excitement.

"Xiao Zhu, I sense your boredom. How about we make our entrance grand?" Xiao Feng proposed, a mischievous smile on his face.

"Yes, little uncle Xiao Feng! This is the first time you've suggested having fun. I'm starting to like you more," Xiao Zhu exclaimed, his smile widening.

"Then let's make it an unforgettable spectacle. Just be careful not to spoil the fun," Xiao Feng warned, his grin turning wicked.

They descended from the tree they had been perched on, Xiao Zhu taking the lead while Xiao Feng carried his broadsword on his back. The young master of the Heavenly Sword Sect finally sensed their presence, alert to their approach.

Yes, Xiao Feng had taught Xiao Zhu the art of concealment to ensure his safety and independence.

"Hey, you worms! Bow before your master!" Xiao Zhu proclaimed loudly, unable to contain his excitement.

Xiao Feng let out a quiet exclamation, tapping his forehead lightly with his palm, contemplating how they could smoothly proceed.