Chapter 50: An Invitation and a Hidden Danger

Jiang Cheng continued his journey through the dense forest, his mind still replaying his brief clash with Ling Tian. The rogue cultivator's skills were sharp—too sharp for someone unaffiliated with a great sect.

But there was no time to dwell on it. His destination lay ahead—a city where rumors of a powerful inheritance had begun to spread.

As he approached the city gates, he noticed a gathering of powerful cultivators. Some wore the robes of elite sects, while others carried themselves with the confidence of lone wanderers.

Something big was happening.

"Halt! State your name and affiliation!" a guard demanded in an arrogant tone.

Jiang Cheng glanced at him before tossing a small jade medallion. The guard's eyes widened as he read it—the symbol of the Tian Family.

"Enter, were sorry sir ",the guard said hurriedly, stepping aside.

Jiang Cheng smirked. "Connections are useful."

---

The Auction House - A Battle Without Blades

Inside the city, a grand auction house stood at the center. Word had spread that a priceless artifact had been discovered—one tied to an ancient cultivator known as the Void Emperor.

Jiang Cheng's instincts told him this was no ordinary treasure.

As he entered the auction house, he noticed familiar faces—sect prodigies, wandering experts, and even a few hidden figures cloaked in powerful auras.

The bidding began. Rare elixirs, divine weapons, and secret manuals were sold one after another. But Jiang Cheng wasn't interested—until the final item was revealed.

A box wrapped in golden chains was brought forth.

"The Void Emperor's Fragmented Codex."

Whispers spread through the hall. A remnant of an ancient cultivator's legacy?

Jiang Cheng's eyes narrowed. "That's it."

The bidding began.

"500,000 spirit stones!"

"600,000!"

"One million!"

The price skyrocketed as powerful factions competed.

Jiang Cheng remained silent until the final moments.

"Three million!" A sect elder from the Starfall Pavilion declared.

Silence filled the room.

Jiang Cheng raised a single finger.

"Ten million."

The entire hall froze.

The elder's face twisted in shock. "You—!"

No one else dared to bid.

The auctioneer hesitated before slamming the gavel. "Sold!"

Jiang Cheng smirked. But as he reached for the codex, a powerful killing intent locked onto him.

---

The Hidden Threat

As Jiang Cheng left the auction house, a group of masked figures surrounded him.

Assassins.

"Hand over the codex, and we'll let you live."

Jiang Cheng sighed. "You could've at least waited until I left the city."

The assassins lunged.

Jiang Cheng's sword flashed. The battle had begun.