Chapter 9- Auction

While they were traveling in the inner city, Lan Wei noticed the time was approaching noon, so he decided to enter a restaurant named Jade Pheasant Pavilion, a prestigious inner-city establishment catering to nobles, wealthy merchants, and influential scholars. Lan Wei and Ling Ling, by their disposition, blended in easily. Their dishes were influenced by cultivator delicacies but downgraded to mortal ingredients for economical reasons.

Situated in the heart of the city, near government offices and wealthy estates, the building was a three-story structure with polished green tiles, golden lanterns, and a carved signboard of a flying jade pheasant. The entrance featured a miniature koi pond and a stone bridge, symbolizing prosperity. The ground floor was designed as an open hall for wealthy merchants and scholars, with polished oak tables and high-quality lanterns illuminating the space. The air was filled with the rich aroma of roasted meats, fragrant rice, and exotic spices, mixed with the subtle scent of incense meant to create a refined atmosphere. The soft hum of conversation filled the hall as well-dressed patrons discussed business deals, poetry, and court gossip.

There were second and third floors, but they were restricted to nobles and VIPs. Lan Wei had no need to ascend to the higher levels for just a lunch. He sat down with Ling Ling at a table near a decorative wooden screen that provided a degree of privacy while still allowing them to observe the bustling restaurant. A well-groomed waiter in a dark green uniform approached and politely took their orders.

Lan Wei ordered the signature dish, the Jade Pheasant Roast, along with Nine-Treasure Soup, which was known for its rich broth and nourishing ingredients. Ling Ling chose Spirit Bamboo Rice, made from a rare mortal-grade rice that grew in a small spring outside the city, near the mountains, and Crane Feather Dumplings, renowned for their light texture and delicate flavor. He also ordered a pot of Cloud Mist Tea for the two of them, a tea cultivated in misty peaks that had a refreshing and slightly sweet taste.

As they waited for their meal, Lan Wei took a moment to observe the guests around him. A few tables away, a group of elderly scholars debated the recent imperial decree on trade routes, while a pair of merchants discussed the rise in spiritual herb prices. The conversations revealed subtle power struggles, economic shifts, and hidden opportunities.

Fifteen minutes later, the food arrived, served in porcelain dishes with elegant engravings. The Jade Pheasant Roast was tender, its golden-brown skin glistening with sauce, while the Nine-Treasure Soup emitted a fragrant steam filled with hints of medicinal herbs and fresh vegetables. The Spirit Bamboo Rice had a slight shimmer to it, and the Crane Feather Dumplings were neatly arranged in a delicate bamboo steamer. Lan Wei savored the meal, appreciating the effort that went into replicating high-quality cultivator cuisine with mortal ingredients. It was not on par with true spiritual food, but it was an excellent imitation.

While enjoying the food, he overheard the table next to them discussing a small auction at nightfall in the Azure Trade Pavilion. One of the men, a merchant dressed in fine silk, mentioned that rare materials and even low-grade spiritual items would be auctioned. Lan Wei had no plans for the night, so he decided to take a look early and perhaps secure a spot for the auction. If the auction house was legitimate, he might even offload his second-grade half-kilo of Silverleaf Vines for sale.

As they finished their meal, Lan Wei and Ling Ling engaged in casual conversation, with Ling Ling sharing stories from her childhood and her life before she met him. She recounted fond memories of her family, her early training, and the bustling marketplaces she used to visit. Lan Wei listened intently, gaining insight into her past and character.

After paying 50 silver taels and leaving the restaurant, they enjoyed a leisurely stroll across the inner city. The district was beautifully maintained, with elegant stone pathways, well-trimmed gardens, and small pavilions where nobles and scholars gathered for poetry readings or business discussions. Small ponds dotted the area, their surfaces reflecting the ornate rooftops of surrounding buildings. The city's infrastructure showcased a blend of mortal craftsmanship and subtle spiritual influence, with some streets paved with spirit stone-infused materials that ensured durability and cleanliness. Artisans displayed their wares along the streets—paintings, calligraphy, fine silk, and intricate jade carvings, each piece carrying a touch of elegance that distinguished the inner city from the more commercial outer districts.

From there, they strolled through the main street, approaching the city's castle. As they neared the fortress, its towering walls cast long shadows over the streets. Situated just at the corner of the castle's front gate stood the Azure Trade Pavilion—prime real estate, a sign of the powerful backers behind it.

The Azure Trade Pavilion was a three-story wooden building reinforced with ironwood beams, adorned with blue silk banners featuring the pavilion's insignia—a cloud swirling around a golden coin. Its entrance was grand yet understated, exuding an air of exclusivity and wealth. Upon stepping inside, Lan Wei was immediately greeted by a well-dressed, beautiful woman who bowed slightly before inquiring about their visit.

Ling Ling, acting on behalf of Lan Wei, inquired about the auction that night and the entry requirements. The woman responded with a practiced smile, her voice smooth and polite. "For normal seating, the entry price is 50 silver taels. For VIP lounges, which come with privacy, superior service, and discreet exits, the entry fee is 5 gold taels. However, if a participant makes a purchase equaling the entry price, the full amount will be refunded."

Lan Wei nodded, considering his options. The VIP section would ensure discretion and comfort, but he had to assess whether it was worth the price. He exchanged a glance with Ling Ling, silently weighing their next move.

Lan Wei took a sip from his tea and glanced at Ling Ling, who remained composed beside him. He placed the tea cup down and turned to the attendant with a calm yet commanding tone.

"I would like to speak with the person in charge of this establishment."

The well-dressed woman maintained her professional smile and gave a slight nod. "Honored guest, the Pavilion Master is a busy man, but I shall relay your request. If you would please follow me to a more private area, I will arrange for a meeting."

Lan Wei exchanged a glance with Ling Ling before following the attendant through a well-carpeted hallway lined with intricate blue and gold patterns. They ascended a narrow staircase, emerging into a private receiving room on the second floor. Within minutes, a middle-aged man dressed in an elegant dark blue robe with silver embroidery entered the room. His bearing was refined, his aura calm but imposing.

"I am Zhou Liang, the Pavilion Master of the Azure Trade Pavilion. I was told you requested my presence. May I ask for your name, honored guest?"

"Lan Wei," he responded simply.

Zhou Liang studied him for a brief moment before gesturing for him to sit. "It is not often we receive a guest who directly seeks out the master of the house. What business brings you here?"

Lan Wei leaned forward slightly. "Your establishment is clearly well-run and prestigious, but I am curious about its true ownership. A location of this importance, directly across from the castle gates, is not something just anyone can acquire."

Zhou Liang's eyes flickered with intrigue before his expression settled into an unreadable mask. "You are quite perceptive, Young Master Lan. However, the Azure Trade Pavilion is but a humble business, serving the trade needs of the city's elites."

Lan Wei chuckled lightly. "A humble business does not hold auctions that require a five-gold-tael entry fee for VIPs. Nor does it secure a building at the heart of the inner city without significant backing. I believe this establishment has ties to the Everlasting Azure Sect, more specifically, to one of its core disciples."

For a brief second, Zhou Liang's fingers tapped against the table before he let out a soft sigh. "I see no harm in admitting that you are correct. The Pavilion is indeed under the influence of the Everlasting Azure Sect, and its true owner is one of the sect's core disciples. However, what does this knowledge bring you, Young Master Lan?"

"Reassurance. Knowing who controls the auction house tells me how much I can trust the transactions here," Lan Wei replied smoothly. "Now that I have confirmed its legitimacy, I would like to pay the entry fee for tonight's auction and also discuss an item I wish to sell."

Zhou Liang nodded, retrieving a jade token from his sleeve. "Fifty silver taels for a normal seat or five gold taels for VIP access. Which will it be?"

Lan Wei placed five gold taels on the table. "VIP. And I require privacy when selling my item."

"Privacy is guaranteed for our sellers," Zhou Liang assured him. "May I ask what item you wish to auction?"

Lan Wei retrieved a small, wrapped package from his sleeve and placed it on the table. "Silverleaf vines, half a kilo. I need an alchemist to appraise its worth."

Zhou Liang's brows raised slightly before he clapped his hands. Moments later, a man in scholarly robes entered, his sleeves marked with the symbol of the Everlasting Azure Sect's Alchemy Hall.

The alchemist carefully unwrapped the package and examined the silverleaf vines with a discerning eye. He took out a small scale and weighed the herbs before nodding in approval. "Excellent quality. If sold directly, you would receive 200 lesser qi stones immediately. If put to auction, it could fetch closer to 250."

Lan Wei took a moment to consider before nodding. "I will auction it. However, I require an in-house credit line of 200 lesser qi stones for tonight's purchases."

Zhou Liang smiled. "That can be arranged. We will deduct any purchases from your earnings, and should you not use the full amount, the remaining balance will be provided to you after the auction."

With business concluded, Lan Wei and Ling Ling departed the trade pavilion and strolled through the inner city, taking in its splendor.

The inner city was a place of grandeur and refinement, a stark contrast to the bustling outer districts. Wide, stone-paved streets stretched ahead, lined with tall, lacquered buildings adorned with colorful banners and elegant carvings. Lanterns hung from intricately designed posts, illuminating the streets with a warm glow as the sun began its descent.

Ling Ling's eyes darted to various storefronts with curiosity. "Young Master, this city is far grander than I had imagined. It reminds me of the capital cities spoken of in stories."

Lan Wei nodded. "Indeed, the inner city is better. Unlike the chaotic markets of the outer city, the inner districts cater to nobility and the affluent. Merchants here deal in rare spices, silk, and cultivation materials of considerable value. But don't be mistaken—this is quite a normal city. Evernight City, which lies beneath the Everlasting War Sect, houses 100 million people, and its inner city alone is eight times the size of this one. Even among other cities in the five continents, it is considered small compared to true capitals and major sect cities."

As they walked, they passed by a tailor's shop where delicate robes embroidered with gold thread were displayed in crystal-clear glass cases. Further along, a jeweler's establishment showcased jade ornaments and spirit-imbued accessories that glowed faintly under the afternoon sun.

They came upon an expansive park filled with serene ponds, elegant wooden pavilions, and stone pathways winding through cherry blossom trees. A group of scholars sat by the water, discussing poetry while sipping fine wine, their laughter carrying in the wind.

"A place of culture and refinement," Ling Ling remarked. "It's beautiful."

"And yet, beneath its splendor, it remains a place of power and influence," Lan Wei mused. "Wealth here is not just about luxury—it is about control."

As night approached, the lanterns of the inner city came alive, casting a warm glow over the streets. The nobility and high-ranking officials began emerging from their estates, making their way toward the Azure Trade Pavilion for the night's auction.

Lan Wei and Ling Ling arrived earlier than most, gaining entry with his VIP token. A steward led them through a secluded corridor, bringing them to an isolated private room on the top floor. It was a well-furnished space, with plush seating, a small tea table, and a one-way glass panel providing a clear view of the auction stage below.

Settling into his seat, Lan Wei gazed out at the grand auction hall as anticipation built within him. Tonight, he would not only sell his item but also observe and potentially acquire something of value.

As Lan Wei settled into his private VIP room, he observed the growing crowd within the Azure Trade Pavilion's grand hall. The lower floor filled quickly with merchants, some clad in fine silk robes, while others wore more practical attire. Their conversations hummed through the air, a blend of hushed negotiations and excited chatter about the upcoming auction. The 60 VIP rooms, including his, were soon occupied by various unknown figures, all obscured by the pavilion's thick curtains.

Zhou Liang entered his room briefly, bowing slightly before speaking. "Master Lan, word of your Silverleaf Vines has spread among the influential parties in the city. Many sect representatives and esteemed alchemists have come specifically for your lot."

Lan Wei arched a brow. "Is there any way to contact the main sect directly?"

Zhou Liang shook his head. "I only have a way to reach the core disciple I serve, not the sect itself."

Lan Wei nodded if possible he wanted to send the message to Ning Xue through him but he didn't want the message going through a core disciple he didn't know anything about. He had already confirmed that the Azure Trade Pavilion was operating under the influence of a powerful Everlasting Azure Sect disciple. Pressing further might raise unnecessary suspicions. "Very well. I'll leave you to your other guests."

Zhou Liang bowed and exited. Lan Wei then perused the public auction catalog displayed on the jade slip provided in the room.

Most of the early lots consisted of rare mortal goods—high-quality silk robes imbued with minor protective formations, exquisitely crafted weapons, and armor of exceptional craftsmanship. He noted a first-grade formation for attacking, but its rudimentary nature made it rather useless to him. More intriguing, however, were three different body-strengthening fruits:

Ironbone Plum – A small, dark plum that, when consumed, reinforced the skeletal structure, making bones resilient as tempered steel.

Blood Ember Berry – A fiery-red berry known to enhance blood vitality and slightly improve circulation of qi within the body.

Azure Root Apple – A rare fruit that enhanced muscle density, increasing raw physical strength and endurance.

He resolved to bid for these, curious if he could cultivate them in his Small World. Another item caught his attention—a small first-grade qi-gathering formation. It required 10 lesser qi stones to fuel for a decade, but its effectiveness was minimal, even for first-stage cultivators. However, with his own knowledge of formations, he believed he could modify and refine it to accelerate qi gathering in concentrated spots, particularly for his plants. Given its low demand, he estimated a cost of no more than 15-20 lesser qi stones for the fruits and the formation.

Beyond these, the catalog mentioned several 'mystery items' that were unlisted—one of which was his own Silverleaf Vine.

As the designated time arrived, a beautiful first-rank low-stage cultivator stepped onto the stage. Dressed in flowing azure robes, she exuded grace and authority as she addressed the attendees.

"Welcome, esteemed guests, to tonight's auction. We shall begin with our first items, exquisite mortal-grade weapons and goods."

The auction commenced, and Lan Wei watched as merchants in the common hall competed fervently for rare fabrics, mortal weaponry, and decorative treasures. After several lots, the body-strengthening fruits were presented.

"The next lot consists of three rare body-enhancing fruits," the auctioneer announced, unveiling three crystal boxes containing the fruits. "Starting bid: 2 lesser qi stones."

A wealthy merchant raised his hand. "Three!"

Another bidder quickly countered, "Four."

Lan Wei calmly said, "Five."

The merchant scowled but did not bid further. After a brief pause, the auctioneer's hammer fell. "Sold for five lesser qi stones!"

Lan Wei smirked. A small investment for long-term potential.

A few more mortal goods followed, then the first-grade qi-gathering formation was presented.

"This formation assists in cultivation, utilizing 10 lesser qi stones over a decade," the auctioneer explained. "Starting bid: 5 lesser qi stones."

A minor sect representative bid six, but Lan Wei swiftly countered with seven. After a few more raises the other bidder fell silent.

"Sold for 11 lesser qi stones!"

Next came the mystery items.

The first was a first-grade spiritual dagger, sleek and infused with a minor self-repairing property. Lan Wei had no use for it and let others bid freely. It was sold for 30 lesser qi stones to a rogue cultivator.

The second mystery item was a Beast Essence Pearl, containing the remnant will and vitality of a first-grade demonic beast. It could be absorbed to strengthen beast-taming abilities or enhance certain alchemical brews. Lan Wei passed on it, as did many others, and it sold for a mere 12 lesser qi stones.

The third item, however, caught his attention—a Jade of Dripping Vitality. This translucent green jade exuded a faint glow, and according to the auctioneer, it secreted a single drop of high-quality liquid qi every year, possessing potent healing properties.

"This jade is highly sought after by alchemists and formation masters alike," the auctioneer said. "Starting bid: 20 lesser qi stones."

Instantly, representatives from various sects began competing fiercely. The price skyrocketed beyond 40, then 50 lesser qi stones.

Lan Wei finally spoke, "52 lesser qi stones."

A tense silence filled the hall before the hammer dropped. "Sold to the honored guest in VIP Room 12!"

Lan Wei leaned back, satisfied. With his Small World's accelerated time, he could extract a drop every three days instead of every year.

Another mystery item followed—a first-stage Fire Qi Gathering Pill recipe. Alchemists and fire cultivators fiercely competed, pushing the price to 150 lesser qi stones before a small sect representative claimed it.

Then, his own Silverleaf Vine was presented.

"This is a half-kilo batch of second-grade Silverleaf Vine, a crucial alchemical ingredient," the auctioneer declared. "Starting bid: 100 lesser qi stones."

The bidding war erupted immediately, with sect representatives and alchemists vying for it. 120. 150. 180. The price surged rapidly. Eventually, one determined bidder from a renowned alchemy sect secured it for 242 lesser qi stones.

Lan Wei smirked. A worthwhile trade.

Two more high-value items closed the auction—a Third-Grade Spiritual Lion's Claws (sold for 405 lesser qi stones) and its core, containing vast amounts of beast qi essence (sold for 2000 lesser qi stones).

As the auction concluded, Lan Wei collected his winnings—his items and a sum of 226 lesser qi stones and 5 gold taels after deducting his credit. He and Ling Ling then departed discreetly through a hidden exit leading to an alleyway.

As they walked through the quiet streets toward their inn in the outer city, Lan Wei's sharp instincts flared.

"We're being followed," he murmured to Ling Ling.