Chapter 11 – Pavilion master

After walking through the streets of the Ling Empire, illuminated by countless lanterns, Shen Yuxian arrived before the Night Sky Pavilion. The building stood in grandeur, vastly different from the other structures in the city. Its three-tiered roof curved sharply, adorned with golden dragon carvings at every corner. The walls were made of black jade, shimmering subtly under the lantern light, giving off an air of both mystery and opulence.

At the pavilion's entrance, a massive ebony gate stood firm, flanked by two bronze lion statues guarding its left and right sides. A powerful, oppressive aura enveloped the area, keeping ordinary people at bay—even lower-level cultivators felt suffocated merely standing near the entrance.

As Yuxian stepped closer, he observed the crowd gathered outside the pavilion. Dozens of high-ranking cultivators stood in separate groups, each displaying their own identity and power. Nascent Soul experts exuded a dignified presence, their auras pulsating subtly like unseen waves crashing against those nearby. Their eyes gleamed with strength and experience, a clear sign that they were no ordinary cultivators but warriors who had survived countless life-and-death battles.

Even more terrifying were the Soul Formation experts, whose presence distorted the very air around them. Some wore long robes adorned with ancient symbols, representing their affiliation with prestigious sects or noble families.

However, Yuxian's attention was drawn to a young man standing beneath a purple-gold canopy to the right of the pavilion. He wore an imperial robe embroidered with dragons, a small crown resting upon his head. The aura radiating from his body was no less intimidating than that of the surrounding experts. He was the Third Prince of the Ling Empire. Despite his youth, his cultivation had already reached the peak of Nascent Soul, a testament to his importance in tonight's event.

On the other side of the pavilion, various sect representatives arrived with strict escorts. Among them, one particular group stood out the most.

Leading this group was a Sacred Maiden, a figure who embodied both grace and power. She wore a pristine white robe embroidered with golden lotus flowers. Her expression was serene, yet her gaze was sharp—capable of piercing into the very souls of those who met her eyes. Behind her, the sect's elders followed with solemn respect, dressed in dark robes signifying their status as her protectors.

Yuxian immediately sensed that this woman was no ordinary figure. Her holy aura clashed against the demonic energy within him, creating an invisible tension when their eyes briefly met. However, the Sacred Maiden merely looked away, seemingly uninterested.

After scanning the powerful figures outside, Yuxian stepped into the Night Sky Pavilion. The interior was just as luxurious as its exterior. The floors were made of green jade, polished to a mirror-like sheen. Crystal lamps hung from the high ceiling, casting a soft glow that reflected off the pavilion's walls, which were adorned with ancient paintings.

As soon as Yuxian entered, he immediately noticed the change in atmosphere. Wealth and power filled every corner of the room. Whispered conversations flowed among the cultivators who had already taken their seats, waiting for the auction to begin.

Moving towards the general seating area, Yuxian was intercepted by a well-dressed young attendant. The man wore a light blue robe with the Night Sky Pavilion's emblem embroidered on his left chest—an official staff member.

Attendant: "Welcome to the Night Sky Pavilion, sir."

The attendant bowed slightly, maintaining a polite smile. "Is there anything I can assist you with? We provide seating for all guests, ranging from the general area to the VIP section. Should you require anything, please do not hesitate to ask."

Yuxian's sharp gaze fell upon the attendant, though he displayed no visible emotion. His cold aura made the attendant shudder slightly, despite his efforts to remain composed.

Yuxian: "I did not come here merely to sit and watch."

His voice was calm yet carried a weight of authority, making the attendant swallow nervously. "Take me to the pavilion master. I have something valuable to auction."

The attendant hesitated, his eyes widening in surprise. Typically, those who wished to auction an item had to make prior arrangements or at least present an official invitation. However, the overwhelming presence surrounding Yuxian made it difficult for the attendant to refuse.

Attendant: "Very well, sir. Please follow me."

His voice trembled slightly, but he quickly turned and led Yuxian through a long corridor that stretched into the inner pavilion—an area restricted to only a select few.

The corridor was decorated with ancient paintings depicting legendary cultivators, while crystal lanterns illuminated each step. Yuxian remained composed, his footsteps steady despite sensing multiple hidden eyes observing him from the shadows.

After several minutes, they arrived before a grand golden door, its surface intricately carved with intertwining dragons and phoenixes.

Attendant: "Sir, this is the Pavilion Master's office."

He knocked respectfully before turning to Yuxian and bowing. "Please enter. The Pavilion Master will see you shortly."

The door creaked open, revealing an expansive chamber with polished blackwood flooring and a massive redwood desk at its center. Shelves lined with scrolls and ancient artifacts filled the walls, a testament to the wisdom and experience of the room's occupant.

Seated behind the desk was an elderly man in deep red robes, his long white beard flowing neatly down his chest. His piercing gaze held the weight of years of experience and intelligence. The stable aura surrounding him suggested he was no ordinary figure—likely someone at the late stage of Nascent Soul or even higher.

Pavilion Master: "Who enters unannounced? And what item do you believe is worthy of being auctioned here?"

His voice was calm but carried a hint of skepticism. He had dealt with countless individuals claiming to possess rare treasures, only to find most of them lacking true value.

Yuxian remained silent for a moment before stepping forward. Raising his hand, he activated his storage ring, causing a faint glow to flicker. A moment later, an ancient scroll materialized in the air.

The scroll was worn yet emanated a mystical radiance, its ancient symbols flickering faintly in the light. However, the powerful aura it released made the air tremble, as if the scroll itself held a life of its own.

Yuxian: "I trust the Night Sky Pavilion is wise enough to recognize the value of what I bring."

His voice was indifferent, yet filled with confidence.

The Pavilion Master's eyes narrowed as he examined the scroll. Slowly, he stood from his chair, stepping forward with caution. The pressure emanating from the scroll was strong enough to make lower-level cultivators uncomfortable.

Pavilion Master: "This… this is no ordinary item."

His tone shifted from skepticism to seriousness. He studied Yuxian more intently before speaking. "Do you even realize what it is that you hold?"

Yuxian gave a small nod, a faint smile curling at his lips.

Yuxian: "That is none of my concern. My only task is ensuring it is sold to the highest bidder."

The Pavilion Master observed him for a few moments, attempting to discern the intent behind the young man's cold, unwavering gaze. Yet, all he saw was calm determination, as if Yuxian was prepared for whatever came next.

Finally, the elder gave a slow nod.

Pavilion Master: "Very well. We shall include your item in tonight's auction. But be warned—an artifact of this caliber will attract many eyes. Be prepared for the consequences."

Yuxian showed no reaction. He knew exactly what he was doing—and he was more than ready for anyone who dared to challenge him.

Yuxian: "I trust the Night Sky Pavilion will ensure my safety… and the safety of my item."

The Pavilion Master chuckled softly.

Pavilion Master: "Inside this pavilion, no one will dare lay a finger on you. But beyond these walls… that is another story entirely."

Yuxian merely gave a slight nod.