I sat calmly, or at least projected an image of calm, in a plush armchair positioned near the window, affording me a sweeping view of the shimmering, metallic surface of Fallen Star Lake stretching towards the horizon. I took a slow sip of the fragrant, Qi-rich spirit tea provided by the Pavilion – a delicate, pale green Silver Needle infusion, known for its ability to soothe the nerves and clarify the mind, served in an exquisite thin porcelain cup that felt warm against my lips. I made a mental note to manifest a decent-sized warehouse full of it in my next conversation with Lord Zhang.
Big Sis Yue sat across from me; her tall frame was no longer clad in travel leathers, but in practical yet clearly high-quality cultivator robes of a deep, forest green, allowing for ease of movement while still projecting status. She was meticulously examining the manifested Middle-Grade Spirit Sword. Her expression was carefully neutral, but her eyes, when they flickered briefly towards me, betrayed a hint of the nervous energy that thrummed beneath the surface, a tension mirrored in the slight tightness around her mouth. I'd told her earlier that, according to a manuscript I saw in the Immortal Space, what she held in her hand was really at least a Supreme Grade treasure (suitable for Nascent Soul-level use) that was merely "masquerading" as a mid-grade artifact using special concealing formations, and that its manifested power would grow with my – the chosen wielder's – cultivation and understanding of the Dao.
I wasn't sure she was quite buying that story yet… though, judging from her growing frown, she certainly saw something in that sword that she'd never seen before… and Big Sis Yue has seen a lot of cultivator weapons. Hopefully time, and additional manifestations, would help her keep a more open mind.
Our pre-auction preparations were soon interrupted by visitors, ushered in respectfully by masked Pavilion attendants who bowed low and retreated silently. First came City Lord Zhang Wei, looking considerably less intoxicated than usual (though, perhaps, still slightly flushed). He was dressed impeccably for the occasion in his finest official robes of deep purple silk, richly embroidered with silver auspicious clouds and symbols of his office, his plump face beaming with eager anticipation for the auction's spectacle and, undoubtedly, the 'free item' I had so generously promised him. He greeted me effusively, clasping my hand warmly, calling me his "esteemed friend," his eyes already scanning the refreshment table laid out by the Pavilion staff.
Putting the sword artifact away for the moment, Jiang Yue greeted Zhang with a casual, perhaps slightly mocking nod that acknowledged his official status without conveying excessive deference, and offered me a familiar, teasing grin.
"So… you ready for the big show, Little Li? Do try not to cause a scene in the first hour, eh?"
She helped herself to the spirit tea and a handful of delicate pastries from the tray, seemingly utterly unfazed by the impending high-stakes event, before taking a seat on a wide divan opposite Zhang. Taking her time to stretch out her long legs with a sigh, she began offering cynical, but occasionally sharp, advice about auction tactics ("Remember, Little Li, the point of these gatherings isn't just to buy things, it's also to make everyone else think you could buy everything you wanted, even if you don't. Project boredom. Look slightly disdainful. Works every time.") while simultaneously engaging City Lord Zhang in a surprisingly knowledgeable, if slightly condescending, discussion about the merits of various obscure spirit wines from the wilder frontier regions, much to the latter's flustered delight and my quiet amusement.
Finally, just as the ambient buzz from the lower floors began to intensify, signaling the imminent start of the auction, Manager Qian paid a brief, final visit. He looked far less stressed than the previous day, no doubt looking forward to the successful sale of my "treasures" – and the commissions and acclaim the Pavillion would earn as a result. He confirmed the final auction listings – my 'trinkets' described with suitably enticing language in the official catalogue, designed to pique maximum curiosity and justify high starting bids. He reviewed the VIP box arrangements again, assuring me of absolute privacy and security, and nervously mentioned the final count of registered bidders, confirming again the presence of several prominent independent Foundation Establishment experts known for their wealth, wealthy merchant clan heads from Fallen Star and beyond, and the official representatives from both the Azure Cloud and the Celestial Iron sects.
Soon enough, it was time.
The low chime of a resonant bell echoed through the Pavilion, signaling two "incense sticks" of time before the commencement of the auction. Manager Qian personally escorted our conspicuous party – myself projecting enigmatic calm and immense wealth, Lin Ruolan radiating quiet competence and loyalty beside me, Jiang Yue towering over everyone, with air of nonchalant, almost bored confidence, and City Lord Zhang puffing up importantly in his official attire, basking in the reflected glory of our association.
We moved through corridors now humming with activity, past numerous other cultivator groups heading towards the main hall or their own assigned boxes, their conversations buzzing with excited speculation about the rumored artifacts. Our entrance into the grand fifth-floor auction hall itself created an immediate, palpable stir, a wave of silence rippling outwards from our position, followed by a surge of hushed whispers and intense, probing gazes.
The hall was breathtakingly opulent, clearly designed to impress – and perhaps, slightly intimidate – its wealthy clientele, reinforcing the Pavilion's status. Built in a grand amphitheater style, tiers of plushly cushioned seating, upholstered in deep crimson velvet, curved around a large, elevated stage crafted from polished, dark spirit wood that seemed to glow faintly with its own internal light, likely imbued with formations to enhance visibility and acoustics – the latter indeed being perfect.
Gilded carvings depicting auspicious dragons soaring through clouds, elegant phoenixes perched on mythical branches, and other powerful celestial beasts adorned the high, vaulted ceiling and the polished wooden panels between the exclusive VIP boxes that lined the upper tiers.
Massive crystal chandeliers, each likely worth a small fortune in themselves, hung suspended like captured constellations, casting a bright yet soft, flattering illumination across the hall, which was already rapidly filling with cultivators of varying levels and affiliations.
Most present were Qi Gathering experts, their robes indicating affiliations with various local Fallen Star families, smaller regional sects, or simply marking them as independent cultivators wealthy or lucky enough to secure a seat. Distinct groups, however, radiated the denser, more stable auras of Foundation Establishment, clustered together in the prime seating areas of the lower tiers or already occupying some of the less prominent VIP boxes, observing the room and each other with keen, assessing eyes, their expressions ranging from excitement to cautious calculation. The air itself buzzed with excited conversation, rampant speculation about the rumored treasures, and the palpable thrum of high-level Qi and concentrated anticipation. This was clearly the Event of the Season in this region.
Rumors and whispers followed us like our own shadows as Manager Qian personally, deferentially escorted us towards one of the largest, most centrally located VIP boxes overlooking the stage.
Our box offered excellent views of the entire hall and the stage below. It was furnished like a miniature luxurious reception room: with comfortable reclining couches upholstered in plush velvet, a low table laden with even finer refreshments than the suite below (including several flasks of different high-grade spirit wines and exotic spirit fruits), and was attended by two silent, masked Pavilion servants standing unobtrusively in the corners, ready to fulfill any of our requests instantly.
As we settled in – myself taking the central seat of honor. Yue lounged casually beside me, already pouring herself a cup of the strongest-smelling spirit wine. Ruolan chose to stand dutifully behind my couch. Zhang settled himself importantly next to Yue, his eyes already greedily eyeing the wine flasks.
Jiang Yue's sharp gaze immediately swept the hall again, her Foundation Establishment senses meticulously assessing the other occupants, particularly those in the other VIP boxes. Her expression suddenly sharpened, her usual teasing demeanor vanishing completely, replaced by genuine caution. She leaned closer to me, her voice a low, urgent whisper that wouldn't carry beyond our immediate vicinity.
"Little Li," she murmured, her eyes fixed intently on a prominent VIP box situated almost directly across the hall from ours, "be careful with that box over there."
I followed her gaze. Inside the box she pointed out, were two individuals. One was slender, seated, completely concealed beneath elegant, shimmering pink silk veils that hung heavily from a wide-brimmed, fashionable hat adorned with what looked like real, perfectly round Luminous Pearls, completely obscuring face and form. Only the faintest hint of a graceful posture, an air of innate nobility, was visible beneath the layers of concealing silk. The figure sat perfectly still, radiating an aura of profound mystery and untouchable status.
Beside the veiled figure sat a man – his posture rigid and alert. He appeared utterly nondescript – middle-aged, dressed in plain, simple grey robes devoid of any insignia or ornamentation, his features plain, easily forgettable in a crowd. He sat with his eyes closed, possibly meditating or, perhaps, simply dozing, for all the world utterly unremarkable... except for his aura. Or rather, the complete lack of one. It was like staring into a calm abyss.
"The man beside the veiled one..." Yue whispered again, her voice tight with warning, her usual nonchalance completely gone. "I can't see through his cultivation at all. But he feels... deep. And dangerous. My instincts are screaming that he's at least at the Golden Core realm, Little Li – possibly even higher. Whatever else you do tonight, do not provoke that box. Whoever they are, they're trouble far beyond us."
Golden Core? Or higher?
Here?
My own internal alarms blared loudly. The level of power above Golden Core was exceedingly rare, belonging to the true powerhouses of the Empire. These were figures who could destroy cities with a wave of their hand, patriarchs of ancient families, supreme elders of major sects, regional governors of the wealthy Inner provinces, high-ranking nobles, or… direct servants of the Emperor himself.
Even if that man was "only" a Golden Core expert, his presence here, in this relatively minor regional auction of a poor, peripheral province bordering the wild frontier lands... was highly unusual, deeply intriguing, and – potentially – very, very dangerous.
Just who were they? And what could possibly draw them here? Surely it was not just the rumors I had started?
…
…
Was it?
Intrigued, and slightly alarmed by Yue's stark warning, I casually caught Manager Qian's eye as he made a final check on our comfort before departing to oversee the auction start from behind the scenes.
"Manager Qian," I inquired softly, gesturing subtly with my chin towards the mysterious box across the hall, keeping my voice low, "an impressive gathering indeed. The Pavilion has truly outdone itself! Might I inquire as to the identity of the esteemed guests in box seven? Their presence seems... particularly noteworthy."
Qian followed my gaze, and his face immediately became even more stressed, if that were possible. He bowed deeply, lowering his voice to an almost inaudible whisper, glancing nervously towards the box in question as if fearing they could hear him even through the formations. "Young Master Jiang, forgive this lowly one, but... their identity is strictly confidential. After yesterday's meeting, I… may have facilitated their attendance by taking the opportunity to share the nature of some of your more unique contributions to this auction with our more notable partners." He bowed again, apologetically, almost pleadingly. "My deepest apologies, Young Master Jiang, but I truly cannot reveal more. Pavilion rules regarding client confidentiality, especially for such esteemed guests, are absolute and unbreakable."
Well now, wasn't that interesting?
I would have to be careful.
…
The auction began shortly thereafter, heralded by another resonant chime. A smooth-talking, experienced Pavilion auctioneer, likely at Foundation Establishment himself based on his confident aura and ability to command the room, took the stage. He welcomed the esteemed guests with practiced flattery, highlighted the Pavilion's reputation, hinted tantalizingly at the extraordinary treasures to come, and launched into the initial formalities, expertly building anticipation.
The first few lots presented were standard, decently valuable items designed to warm up the crowd and establish bidding momentum. For instance, there were:
· A set of perfectly matched spirit jade jewelry suitable for a cultivator's wife or daughter ("I know you don't like that kind of stuff, Big Sis," I whispered, "but I saw thousands of jin of high-quality Spirit Jade you know where. Getting jewelry like that wouldn't be hard at all!")
· A bottle of Supreme Grade (i.e., ones that produced almost no impurities) Qi Gathering pills known for aiding minor breakthroughs at the Qi Gathering stage, which Ruolan eyed with a sense of covetous longing ("Don't worry, my faithful Steward," I told her with a smirk, "for I possess large stores of far purer and even more potent Qi Gathering pills than these. Continue to do well, and you'll have all the Qi Gathering pills you need to reach Stage 9, a dozen times over!"),
· A decent-looking Low-Grade flying sword artifact ("Pfft, what is this trash? I wouldn't even look at a flying artifact that's below at least upper mid-grade. We've got so many flying swords laying around lately, I'm beginning to lose count, honestly.")
While I never actually bid on anything, I also never lost an opportunity to boldly proclaim my possession of similar items, in plentiful supply, and of an even better quality. Every such statement was promptly believed by Ruolan, cousin Yue, and Lord Zhang – who, after all, had no reason to doubt me after everything they've seen.
As a result, I was making absolute bank in manifested wealth as the auction progressed!
Bidding was brisk but orderly, with items selling for reasonable, if slightly inflated, prices, setting the baseline for the event. The atmosphere in the hall grew steadily warmer, looser, as wine flowed and the initial lots were claimed.
Within our VIP box, the mood was relaxed – at least outwardly. City Lord Zhang, already on his third cup of the Pavilion's fine spirit wine, was having an animated discussion with cousin Yue about the nuances of wine brewed using frost-attribute spirit springs versus those aged in volcanic, fire-attributed, earth jars. Yue, seeming genuinely engaged now, perhaps finding his grounded hedonism a refreshing change from typical cultivator ambition, offered sharp critiques and amusing anecdotes from her own travels, occasionally laughing heartily at Zhang's slightly sycophantic jokes.
Their unlikely camaraderie was amusing to watch.
Eventually, Zhang, emboldened by the wine and the easy conversation, sighed dramatically as a one-thousand-year-old ginseng root was auctioned off on stage for several hundred spirit stones.
"Ah, if only that legendary Asura Blood Wine Young Master Jiang is offering later were available to try now! Such descriptions!" he added, casting a hopeful, slightly pleading glance my way, his eyes gleaming with anticipation, "The bidding for such a treasure will likely be far beyond my humble means... unless, perhaps... my dear friend Jiang Li recalls his earlier generous offer...?" He trailed off suggestively, clearly referencing my promise to buy him any one item.
I laughed dismissively, seizing the perfect opportunity to reinforce my image of boundless wealth and casual generosity, while also manifesting more resources. "Bid? City Lord Zhang, you insult our newfound friendship!" I exclaimed, leaning forward conspiratorially. "Why would you ever need to bid on something I consider mere surplus stock?" I lowered my voice, though to the point that was still audible to Yue and Ruolan.
"Between us, my friend, that single barrel being auctioned later today is truly just a taste, a mere sample to whet the region's appetite." I tapped my storage bracelet significantly. "Although it won't be available on the open market until next year, I already arranged for a preliminary shipment. In fact," I lied smoothly, "I have two more full-sized barrels of it right here in my bracelet, and," I added with utter confidence, "we have four dozen more currently secured down in Qingshan – my man Jin Bao is overseeing the storage arrangements as we speak." I beamed at him, radiating effortless wealth. "Consider one entire barrel yours when we return to Qingshan, my friend. No need to trouble yourself with the vulgarity of bidding amongst the common masses. It's nothing, truly."
City Lord Zhang, already thoroughly convinced of my limitless resources, flattered by the address as 'friend', and practically salivating at the prospect of owning an entire barrel of a legendary, impurity-free spirit wine, readily accepted this new claim without a shred of doubt. His eyes gleamed with pure, unadulterated joy and profound gratitude.
[Qualified Belief Detected: City Lord Zhang (Foundation Establishment - Mid Stage). BQT Level 7 Met!]
[Analyzing Belief: User Possesses 2 Barrels Asura Blood Wine (Storage Bracelet) & 48 Barrels Asura Blood Wine (Stored in Qingshan Town)]
[Threshold Met! Manifestation Initiated! Target: Storage Bracelet Inventory & Qingshan Warehouses]
[Warning: Available Qingshan Warehouse space insufficient to support manifestation. Temporarily suspending manifestation until suitable storage space has been designated by User.]
[Belief Meter: +4000]
The System confirmed the manifestation with a quiet hum in my mind.
Excellent.
My storage bracelet now held two more barrels of potent wine, and, at some point in the future, I would be able to wink into existence four dozen more barrels of the stuff.
It felt so good to be rich!
The auction proceeded, the energy in the hall steadily building. Then came the first of my offerings: the spirit ores.
The auctioneer presented the small, gleaming samples of Star Refined Iron and Deep Cold Mystic Iron on velvet cushions, hyping their exceptional purity, rarity, and suitability for crafting high-grade artifacts. He then announced the staggering quantity available – five thousand jin of each, provided courtesy of the Jiang family, with quality guaranteed by the Pavillion's experts. A wave of excited murmurs went through the hall, particularly from the representatives of sects and families known for artifact refinement. Such large quantities of these rare ores were almost never seen for sale on the open market – certainly not out here in the sticks, that is.
The bidding was immediate and fierce, erupting primarily between the representative from the Celestial Iron Sect, whose eyes gleamed with professional avarice, and another bidder representing a wealthy family renowned for their artifact refinement workshops from a neighboring province known for its rich mineral deposits. Several other smaller bids came in, but were quickly surpassed. The price rapidly climbed past fifty thousand spirit stones, the increments growing larger with each volley. Finally, after a tense back-and-forth, it hammered down at a very respectable sixty-five thousand low-grade spirit stones, sold to the triumphant, beaming Celestial Iron elder, who offered a formal, grateful nod towards our box. A solid profit manifested entirely from belief, and a successful public establishment of my connection to valuable bulk resources.
So far, so good!
Next came the Asura Blood Wine. An ornate spirit wood barrel was brought carefully onto the stage, the Jiang family crest being prominently displayed. The auctioneer, perhaps having sampled a tiny drop himself beforehand, uncorked the small sample vial again, letting the potent, complex aroma fill the air near the front rows, causing several Foundation Establishment experts to lean forward intently.
He repeated my claims with dramatic flair – the exclusivity of origin, the impurity-free Qi boost comparable to fractions of Nine Essences Pills, the potential alchemical uses, the Wood/Blood spirit root affinity bonus.
The bidding erupted instantly, primarily among the Foundation Establishment experts. Elder Yue Qingxue from the Azure Cloud Sect entered the fray early, her bids calm and icy in demeanor – but substantial. Perhaps she was intrigued by the wine's stated properties, or perhaps she wanted to secure it for a disciple's use.
Several independent cultivators known for seeking longevity aids and unique cultivation resources, along with wealthy merchant patriarchs hoping to curry favor or boost their own stalled cultivation, competed fiercely. The price rapidly soared, quickly surpassing 5000, then 6000 low-grade spirit stones. Finally, after a… spirited contest, it hammered down at a remarkable 14000 low-grade spirit stones, sold to a jubilant, white-bearded independent Foundation Establishment cultivator known throughout the region for his extensive collection of rare elixirs, who looked utterly thrilled with his purchase.
Lord Zhang looked equally thrilled for me (and was undoubtedly anticipating his free barrel even more, now that he has experienced its stratospheric market value). Yue Qingxue looked thoughtful but ultimately unconcerned at losing the bid, perhaps deeming the price too high for the described benefits, and Ruolan allowed herself another small, almost invisible sigh of relief at yet another successful, profitable sale.
The Myriad Poisons Dissolving Pills followed, presented dramatically in their exquisite sealed jade bottle on a plush velvet cushion. The auctioneer emphasized the legendary life-saving potential against toxins below the Golden Core realm and the unique sealing method of the container preserving potency. The atmosphere in the hall grew tense again, the desire for self-preservation, for a guaranteed second chance against hidden dangers and treacherous rivals, palpable among the cultivators present. Bidding was frantic, almost desperate, from multiple parties simultaneously, including several families known for operating in dangerous territories or having numerous enemies.
I thought I heard Su Mei scoff loudly from her box across the hall, dismissing it as nonsense, but her opinion clearly held no weight in this case; no one even glanced her way. The bottle finally sold for an astonishing twenty thousand low-grade spirit stones to a cautious-looking elder representing a prominent merchant family known for operating lucrative but perilous trade routes. Another significant profit, another layer added to my mystique of possessing impossible, life-saving treasures.
Then came the Shadow Serpent Fang dagger. Presented carefully on its black silk cloth, its sinister, wavy black blade absorbing the light, radiating no Qi whatsoever. It immediately drew intrigued and slightly fearful attention.
The auctioneer highlighted the blade's unique (freshly-bullshitted by yours truly) properties – including the ability to bypass Qi senses below the Golden Core level, and the constantly-secreted paralytic toxin potent enough to temporarily impair even Early Foundation Establishment experts with a mere scratch. He acknowledged the drawback – the need for close combat – but emphasized its value as an ultimate trump card in an ambush or desperate situation, a tool for turning the tables against a stronger opponent.
The hushed atmosphere in the hall turned slightly colder, more dangerous. Several bids came quickly, driving the price up rapidly. The dagger finally sold for well above the starting bid, reaching forty-five thousand low-grade spirit stones, hammered down to a bidder whose identity remained completely concealed, the payment delivered silently via a Pavilion intermediary.
Manager Qian, watching from the side, looked slightly nervous about facilitating the sale of a potential assassination tool, but the profit was undeniable. Thanks to the System, the dagger's deadly properties were now fully manifest, a dangerous weapon unleashed upon the unsuspecting world.
Now, for the truly outrageous lots: the 'invisible' talismans were brought out next – four elegantly sealed wooden boxes, each announced as containing one hundred Mid-Grade Talismans (Offensive, Defensive, Movement, and Exorcism types respectively), personally provided courtesy of the enigmatic Young Master Jiang Li.
The auctioneer reiterated my explanation about the unique inscription method rendering the seals upon the talismans both invisible and undetectable below Golden Core, emphasizing the Pavilion's guarantee (backed by my personal guarantee) of their full functionality. Immediate confusion and skepticism rippled through the hall again. Foundation Establishment experts frowned, extending their spiritual senses towards the boxes on stage, finding nothing but ordinary paper within.
This must have been Su Mei's cue.
Unable to contain her "outrage" and seeing an opportunity to discredit me publicly after the previous items of mine sold so successfully, she leaped to her feet again in her VIP box, pointing an accusatory finger across the hall towards me.
"Fraud! Naked robbery in public! This is absurd! Those are worthless paper! I am at Stage Eight of Qi Gathering, and I sense no spiritual energy whatsoever from those boxes! Don't be swindled by this Jiang trash! His family deals in ores and other brute resources, not delicate, high-level talismans! This is an insult to our intelligence!"
Inspector Liu, a pompous minor regional official seated beside her (or, rather, it was more a case of her sitting beside him, for it was, in fact, his private box) nodded gravely, clearly eager to assert his authority or – perhaps – seeking favor with the Su family. "Lady Su Mei raises a valid point!" he declared loudly, his Foundation Establishment aura pressing outwards slightly.
"This official is at the Mid-Stage of Foundation Establishment, and my divine sense detects nothing but ordinary paper within those boxes. Manager Qian, an explanation is required! Fraud at an Imperially-sanctioned auction branch is a serious matter! I demand proof!"
Murmurs of doubt and agreement spread through the hall, especially among the other Foundation Establishment experts who trusted their own senses over the Pavilion's claims.
The atmosphere grew tense, threatening to derail the auction.
Manager Qian stepped forward again onto the stage, sweating slightly despite his cultivation, but reciting the prepared explanation with confidence having seen me demonstrate one of the talismans to him first-hand a mere day ago.
"Esteemed Inspector, Honored Guests!" His voice was firm, carrying over the murmurs. "As explained previously regarding Young Master Jiang's unique offerings, these talismans utilize a unique inscription method that perfectly seals their potent spiritual power until the moment of activation! Not only does this make the talisman itself more efficient – and able to produce mid-level effects with only low-level materials… but it also renders them undetectable to spiritual sense below the Golden Core realm! The latter is a security measure against reverse-engineering, ensuring that only those in the know are able to reproduce the technique." He gestured towards the boxes. "The potency of these items as genuine Mid-Grade talismans, equivalent to a Foundation Establishment expert's full-power techniques, is fully vouched for by this Myriad Treasures Pavilion! They are sold in stacks of 100. Starting bid: fifty thousand low-grade spirit stones per stack! We begin," he announced loudly, trying to regain control and move forward, "with the Offensive talismans!"
Inspector Liu looked ready to object further, perhaps demanding a demonstration despite the risk of wasting a valuable talisman and potentially offending both the Pavillion and me…
But he was abruptly cut off.
"Fifty thousand!" a voice called out instantly from the representative of the Crimson Star Sect, newcomers from a nearby province, clearly intrigued by the potential bargain or the prospect of examining innovative talisman designs first-hand.
"Fifty-five thousand!" countered the Celestial Iron elder immediately.
"Sixty thousand," came the calm, icy voice of Elder Yue Qingxue from the Azure Cloud Sect box, her motives unreadable.
"Sixty-five thousand!" shot back the Crimson Star representative, unwilling to back down easily.
While this fierce, unexpected bidding war erupted among the various parties, stunning the doubters like Inspector Liu and Su Mei into an uneasy silence, I casually observed the mysterious VIP box across the hall. The powerful Golden Core (or above) cultivator pointed out by Big Sis leaned over, whispering urgently into the veiled figure's ear. Said veiled figure listened intently for a moment, then gave a slight, almost imperceptible nod.
The powerful man stood calmly. His voice, when it came, was quiet – yet resonated through the entire hall with effortless authority, cutting through the competing bids like a sharp sword through silk.
"Two hundred thousand low-grade spirit stones for the Offensive stack."
The hall fell into stunned silence.
Two hundred thousand?
For talismans no one could even sense? The sheer amount, delivered with such calm certainty, was staggering.
No one dared counter.
The Crimson Star representative slumped back in his seat.
The Celestial Iron elder shook his head slightly.
Even Elder Yue Qingxue remained silent, her expression unreadable behind an icy mask.
"S-Sold!" the auctioneer finally managed, his voice slightly shaky, "for two hundred thousand low-grade spirit stones to the esteemed guest in Box Seven!"
The bodyguard remained standing, his expression unchanging. The ensuing exchange happened quite quickly.
"Two hundred thousand for the Defensive stack."
--"Sold!"
"Two hundred thousand for the Movement stack."
--"Sold!"
"Two hundred thousand for the Exorcism stack."
--"Sold!"
And, just like that, with four calm declarations, all four stacks of my 'invisible' talismans were sold at the same overwhelming price, totaling eight hundred thousand low-grade spirit stones – or eight thousand mid-grade ones – to the mysterious occupants of Box Seven.
The System pinged happily in my mind, confirming further enhancement of the potent energies within the talismans as the belief of not just the bidder but the entire hall solidified around their perceived value.
Su Mei stared at me, her face pale now with a mixture of fury and disbelief, glaring daggers of pure hatred at my box.
Utterly humiliated.
Again.
Did she have some kind of humiliation kink, I wondered, or was she simply that incompetent?
Inspector Liu too looked utterly confused, and, perhaps, a touch intimidated, by the blatant displays of wealth and power from Box Seven.
The crowd buzzed with renewed fervor, and my belief meter and reputation numbers trickled higher, wrapped in layers of wealth and mystery.
Just in time for the next item: the plain Jade Box containing the alleged Ten-Thousand-Year Nine Nether Lotus Fruit was brought carefully onto the stage, presented on a cushion of ice-attributed silk to emphasize its nature. Just as before, the auctioneer reiterated my claims – the exceedingly rare nature of the ingredient, the profound benefits for Yin/Frost/Water cultivators below Golden Core, the extreme volatility, the warnings about keeping it sealed, and my personal guarantee of potency – and announced the starting bid of a mere ten thousand low-grade spirit stones.
The bidding erupted instantly, and even more fiercely than even for the talismans!
The Alchemist Guild representative, an elderly man radiating the dense Qi of Late Foundation Establishment and the sharp, complex scent of rare herbs, bid aggressively from the start, recognizing the unparalleled potential alchemical value of a previously unknown ingredient.
Ah, the Alchemist Guild, I recalled from Jiang Li's memories, a powerful, empire-wide organization: part trade union, part research institution, part regulatory body. While not a sect focused on combat, their influence was immense. They controlled much of the high-level pill market through their network of "certified alchemists," set standards for pill quality and pricing (ensuring consistent profits for the group's members), developed and guarded secret refinement techniques and pill recipes, accredited official skill tiers for alchemists (e.g., First-Grade, Second-Grade, Third-Grade, etc.), promoted research into new elixirs, and jealously guarded their collective knowledge while enriching their members. Acquiring a potent – but previously unknown – ingredient like this Nine Nether Lotus Fruit would be a massive coup for the Guild's research division, allowing them to potentially develop new high-level frost-attribute pills or elixirs, or, perhaps, it was simply sought for the personal use of one of their high-ranking members.
The Crimson Star Sect representative competed fiercely again, perhaps having Frost cultivators within the ranks of their sect, or simply seeking rare ingredients for their own unique purposes.
But Elder Yue Qingxue countered aggressively with icy determination, her usual calm facade cracking slightly, revealing her intense desire for the frost-attribute treasure – her Peak Foundation Establishment cultivation, likely with a compatible affinity, would have made this item incredibly valuable to her in particular: perhaps it was even a key component for assisting with a dangerous upcoming breakthrough to the Golden Core realm. She became visibly tense, gritting her teeth subtly as the price climbed rapidly past 30,000, then past 40,000 spirit stones, driven primarily by her and the determined Alchemist Guild representative.
Just as the price reached a staggering sixty-five thousand low-grade spirit stones, after a tense back-and-forth between Elder Yue and the Alchemist Guild representative that had the entire hall holding its breath, the mysterious cultivator from the Imperial box calmly intervened once again.
His voice cut through the tension in the room like a Soviet Nuclear Icebreaker through… well, ice.
"Two thousand middle grade spirit stones."
Silence fell again, absolute this time.
Elder Yue Qingxue visibly flinched, her lips tightening into a thin white line, a flicker of deep frustration crossing her icy features before she regained control, closed her eyes briefly, and remained silent.
The Alchemist Guild representative sighed heavily, shaking his head in resignation, clearly unwilling or unable to match such a price – equivalent to two hundred thousand low-grade spirit stones – for even a supposed "legendary" ingredient.
"Sold!" the auctioneer declared, his voice filled with awe, "for two thousand mid-grade spirit stones to the honored guest in Box Seven!"
But before the transaction could be finalized, before the Pavilion staff could even approach the box, Su Mei snapped completely. All decorum, all consideration for family face or personal consequences, seem to have vanished in a wave of pure, unadulterated fury and humiliation. She leaped to her feet again in her VIP box, pointing a trembling finger furiously at the stage.
"This is outrageous! Utter fraud! Manager Qian, are you complicit in these crimes or simply blind?! First, we had those ridiculous invisible talismans, and now, you're selling an empty box for two thousand mid-grade spirit stones?! I don't know what lies that Jiang trash has fed you, but there's no way such a fruit even exists, let alone in his possession! This is blatant deception! A grave insult to all esteemed cultivators present here!"
Inspector Liu, perhaps feeling pressured by Su Mei, possibly genuinely suspicious after the earlier talisman incident, or simply seeing another opportunity to assert his own authority, stood up again, puffing out his chest indignantly like an outraged peacock.
"Indeed! This Imperial trade official demands clarification! My Foundation Establishment divine sense clearly perceives the box as absolutely empty! Manager Qian, what is the meaning of this?!"
Quiet murmurs of agreement rippled through the hall again as other Foundation Establishment experts confirmed they too sensed nothing within the box. The atmosphere grew tense and ugly once more, threatening to descend into complete chaos.
Before Manager Qian could respond, looking utterly panicked, caught again between offending myself and the incredibly powerful buyer in Box Seven, and facing accusations of fraud backed by a genuine Imperial official and other experts in the room… a clear, cold, and incredibly authoritative female voice emanated from the mysterious VIP box, cutting through the rising murmurs like a falling icicle through flesh.
"This one finds the Inspector's doubts... tedious."
The voice, though soft, carried an innate nobility and power that commanded immediate silence.
"Manager Qian, have my purchase delivered to my box. Immediately."
Inspector Liu, perhaps emboldened by the perceived support of other experts sensing nothing from the box, deeply annoyed by the interruption and the earlier humiliation, and, perhaps, foolishly underestimating the speaker due to her hidden form, turned towards Box 7 dismissively, his face red with indignation.
"Little girl, mind your business!" he boomed. "This is an official Imperial Trade Investigation now! We will not tolerate fraud at a duly sanctioned auction!"
He turned back to Qian, his voice ringing with self-importance.
"Manager Qian, I insist you open the box! Now! Let us all see the truth of this supposed 'treasure!'"
Manager Qian looked utterly panicked now, caught in an impossible situation, glancing pleadingly, desperately towards my VIP box. I met his gaze, then offered a slow, amused nod, granting permission with a well-practiced air of 'let them see their folly'.
Let the drama play out, I say!
Qian, trembling slightly, took the jade box from the stage attendant. He offered profound apologies towards the mysterious VIP box, then, under the intense scrutiny of the entire hall he carefully, dramatically, broke the seal and, after taking a deep breath, lifted the lid.
The result was immediate, violent, and far more potent than my earlier demonstration in the private room. A veritable column of intensely cold, blindingly white mist erupted violently from the open box, swirling instantly through the entire auction hall like an arctic blizzard. Visible frost instantly coated the stage, the poor auctioneer, and Manager Qian himself. Cultivators below Foundation Establishment cried out in shock and pain, desperately circulating their Qi to resist the bone-chilling cold that seemed to seep into their very souls, threatening to freeze their Qi pathways solid. The temperature in the massive hall plummeted drastically, causing breath to fog instantly and those in the lower tiers began to shiver uncontrollably, their teeth chattering loudly.
Qian slammed the lid shut with a cry of alarm, his face white with terror and genuine exertion, his fine golden robes – and even his eyebrows – coated in a thick layer of shimmering frost.
The evidence of the treasure was undeniable and terrifyingly real. Its power far exceeded expectations.
Before the chaos and shivering could fully subside, the same clear, cold, and now utterly furious, authoritative female voice cut through the hall again from the mysterious VIP box.
"Inspector. Liu."
The two words immediately commanded absolute, fearful silence.
The veiled figure stood slowly, gracefully.
With a deliberate, almost disdainful gesture, she reached up and removed the wide-brimmed hat and the shimmering pink silk veil, revealing her body and face to the stunned, silent assembly.
She was impossibly beautiful, breathtakingly so, perhaps only nineteen or twenty years old, yet carrying an aura of innate nobility and ancient authority that transcended her youth and unknown cultivation level (which remained imperceptible – masked, perhaps, by a higher-level technique or artifact).
Her features were exquisite, flawless, and almost otherworldly: long hair the color of spun moonlight cascaded down her back like virgin snow, framing a face with skin like luminous pearl, and glowing eyes the color of deep-twilight violets regarded the hall with icy displeasure.
She radiated a presence that demanded reverence.
Worship.
A presence that spoke of power and status beyond what mere cultivation could achieve.
"You demanded," she stated, her voice quiet yet carrying to every corner of the hall, each word laced with icy threat, "the seal be broken upon my purchase."
She gestured towards the now-sealed, frost-covered box resting on the stage.
"This Princess,"
– the title dropped like a mountain falling from the heavens, causing gasps and immediate, frantic bowing throughout the entire hall, including from Manager Qian, City Lord Zhang, and even Jiang Yue beside me –
"acquired that Ten-Thousand-Year Nine Nether Lotus Fruit for a specific, urgent purpose related to the Imperial lineage. Its potency, essential for my cultivation, has now been demonstrably damaged, its core essence leaked and diminished, due to your reckless demands and baseless accusations fueled by petty ego."
Her violet eyes fixed on the terrified, trembling Inspector Liu.
"Explain yourself, Inspector. How,"
– her voice dropped dangerously low, carrying an icy threat that chilled the room more effectively than the lingering frost Qi, promising consequences far beyond mere dismissal, –
"will you compensate the Imperial Palace for this significant, perhaps irreparable, loss?"
Utter shock and abject terror gripped Inspector Liu and Su Mei beside him.
Imperial Palace?
Princess?!
The official instantly turned upon Su Mei, desperately trying to deflect blame, practically groveling on the floor now.
"Y-y-your Highness! A t-thousand pardons! Ten thousand pardons! This lowly official was misled! Deceived! It was Lady Su Mei of the Su family who insisted the listing was a fraud! She assured me..."
But Su Mei, face ashen with terror, realizing the potentially catastrophic consequences of her actions, wasn't about to accept responsibility without a fight.
"That's slander! Lies! This has nothing to do with me! I merely voiced reasonable suspicions – I would never demand the breaking of a seal on a completed purchase!"
The Princess's mysterious minder stepped forward silently then, his immense, unfathomable aura pressing down on the entire hall like a physical weight, instantly silencing everyone, and making it difficult to breathe.
"Inspector Liu," his voice was deep, calm, utterly devoid of emotion, but carried the weight of absolute authority that resonated through bone and soul, "your conduct in overseeing regional commerce and handling disputes involving esteemed guests has been noted. Your incompetence, arrogance, and grave disrespect have resulted in damage to Imperial property and gave personal offense to Her Highness."
He paused, letting the judgment hang.
"You can expect a full audit from the Imperial Censorate regarding your entire tenure in Yuhang Region, effective immediately. You will await their arrival under house arrest."
The Inspector let out a choked, strangled sound and collapsed heavily into his seat, utterly broken, his face grey, his career and – very likely – his life completely finished.
Su Mei looked horrified beside him, trembling visibly, realizing just how close she came to dooming herself – and, possibly, her entire Su family – by publicly offending, let alone insulting, Imperial royalty.
The rest of the auction was rather anticlimactic by comparison.
The Azure Scale Armor was presented next, but, after the preceding high drama, the atmosphere surrounding it was rather subdued.
Oh, there was still a great deal of interest, of course! The bidding was, in fact, quite fierce. To everyone else's relief, however, the Imperial box remained completely silent – perhaps deeming the armor unnecessary given their likely access to far superior artifacts of "High" grade and above.
Elder Yue Qingxue of the Azure Cloud Sect also seemed uninterested – perhaps none of her disciples even used heavy armor.
The armor eventually sold for an impressive price of four thousand eight hundred mid-grade spirit stones (equivalent to 480,000 low-grade spirit stones) – to the triumphant, beaming Crimson Star Sect representative. Even after commissions, this represented a huge profit for me, as the item, being manifested entirely from belief, had no production costs. Nevertheless, the sale itself felt anticlimactic, lacking the explosive, life-altering drama of the earlier Lotus Fruit incident.
+++
Back in the luxurious VIP suite after the auction finally concluded, the atmosphere was electric despite the late hour. Ruolan, looking slightly overwhelmed but also undeniably exhilarated by the day's events, the promise of unlimited Supreme Grade Qi Gathering pills, and the sheer scale of the wealth generated, reported that she'd already been inundated with communication talismans lighting up like fireflies on the tray she held (as well as veiled meeting requests delivered discreetly by Pavilion staff). There were messages galore: messages pouring in from sects interested in the ores, powerful merchant families seeking trade alliances, independent Foundation Establishment experts hoping to curry favor, inquire about resources, or even find employment, and minor officials hoping to establish connections – all seeking an audience with the 'unfathomably wealthy', 'profoundly connected', and 'enigmatic' Young Master Jiang Li.
I instructed her to politely defer most conversations for now, citing fatigue after the excitement of the auction, but to make a detailed list, prioritizing contacts based on their potential value or threat. I specifically told her to coordinate any future large-scale sales through Manager Qian, offering the Pavilion a generous cut of the proceeds.
"We need their established network, their reputation for discretion, and their security infrastructure for now, Ruolan," I explained patiently. "No need to start a trade war or invite robbery by handling large, high-value transactions ourselves until we are significantly stronger and have established our own secure channels."
Jiang Yue, who was lounging comfortably on one of the plush couches and examining the manifested Spirit Sword with renewed interest, nodded approvingly.
"Learning fast, Little Li!" she commented, ruffling my hair again affectionately as I walked past. "Using the established powers, leveraging their infrastructure instead of fighting them directly... sometimes that's the smarter play. Very pragmatic of you. Good!"
Coming from her, it felt like high praise indeed.
+++
The corridors of the Myriad Treasures Pavilion's restricted upper floors were hushed, opulent tunnels of polished darkwood and shimmering silk hangings. My footsteps, clad in soft-soled boots appropriate for the fine blue silk robes I wore today, made no sound on the thick, luxurious carpets woven with intricate cloud patterns. Even the ambient Spirit Qi felt richer up here.
Cleaner.
Likely drawn and purified by formations hidden beneath the floorboards, a testament to the Pavilion's wealth and attention to detail for its most esteemed guests.
I walked alone, having instructed both Lin Ruolan and Jiang Yue to remain behind in the VIP suite. After all, meeting royalty, even a Princess whose exact rank and influence remained unknown for the moment, demanded a certain protocol, a certain performance. Arriving with retainers might seem appropriate for asserting status, but appearing alone, projecting calm confidence and personal authority, felt like the stronger play, especially given the circumstances. It implied that I required no backup, no buffer.
That I was capable of handling this encounter myself.
Manager Qian had relayed the summons just moments ago, his expression a mixture of profound respect and barely concealed terror directed towards the former occupants of Box Seven. Her Imperial Highness, Eighth Princess Long Xueyue of the reigning Tianlong Dynasty, wished to speak with me regarding my offer of compensation for the unfortunate incident with the Snow Lotus Fruit. I had, of course, merely sent word expressing my deep regret and desire to arrange for recompense; I would never have presumed to request an in-person audience.
And yet, she had summoned me.
This was interesting.
Yes, she was indeed royalty, and I – the subject (albeit a wealthy and now notoriously enigmatic one). She would definitely dictate the terms of our interaction.
However.
A small, calculating smile touched my lips as I walked.
Everything was proceeding just as I had planned. My message, expressing regret and desire to compensate, had clearly landed exactly as intended. It wasn't just about the damaged fruit anymore, not really. By offering compensation after she had already secured the item, I had not-so-subtly signaled that I possessed more of such treasures, resources far exceeding what was displayed at a mere regional auction. And she, a court-trained royal undoubtedly well-versed in subtle political maneuvering, had picked up on that implication immediately.
She suspects I have more, I mused, my mind racing, analyzing the situation like a chess player contemplating a mating combination.
It is a reasonable assumption that high-quality, potent Frost or Yin attributed resources, like the Nine Nether Snow Lotus Fruit I had successfully made up, are exceedingly rare – after all, if they weren't, a gods-damned Imperial Princess wouldn't be out looking for them all the way out here, regardless of what stories Manager Qian may have conveyed to her attendants. And the fact that I, the provider, treated that extremely rare treasure almost casually and am now offering "compensation" implies that I indeed have access to more – and, perhaps, even better, resources.
My smile widened slightly as I continued my analysis.
Crucially, it is also a reasonable assumption that such resources are vital for the advancement of individuals possessing the famous Imperial Physique – something she obviously has, given her appearance and loudly stated intention of using the Lotus for her own cultivation.
I nodded to myself, feeling like I was on the right track.
Furthermore, I considered, if she needs such resources, it's also highly probable that other members of her vast Imperial family – siblings, cousins, uncles, elders – share similar needs. Thus, resources this rare become political capital in and of themselves. By demonstrating access, I've made myself a potentially invaluable pawn, a potential target, and – perhaps – even a kingmaker in their internal power struggles.
Therefore, she doesn't just suspect that I have more; she likely needs to secure my loyalty, and my supply line, for herself — before her rivals move to do so.
…
And the beauty of it all is, I thought, feeling the familiar thrill of the System humming quietly in the background of my consciousness, ready to respond to fresh belief, she's absolutely correct about my ability to provide! Or rather, she will be, the moment I present the 'compensation' and she believes in its existence
My steps remained unhurried, confident, as I approached the heavily guarded, ornately carved door indicated by the Pavilion attendant who had guided me here before bowing low and vanishing silently. Two guards, clad in the Pavilion's elite purple and gold, stood like statues on either side, their auras significantly stronger than the Qi Gathering experts below – Early Foundation Establishment, at least.
They regarded me with impassive respect, recognizing me instantly, and one moved silently to open the door as I approached.
Taking a final, steadying breath, smoothing down my robes, ensuring my mask of the 'Righteous & Unpredictable Genius Scion' was firmly in place, I stepped across the threshold to meet the Princess. The performance was about to enter a new, far more dangerous — but, potentially, far more rewarding, Act!
Eighth Princess Long Xueyue of the reigning Tianlong Dynasty was unveiled now, seated gracefully behind a low table, sipping fragrant spirit tea. Her regal beauty was even more striking up close, possessing an ethereal quality that seemed almost unreal. Her unique violet eyes held an unnerving depth and calm intelligence far beyond her apparent age of nineteen or twenty years. Her silver-white hair fell around her shoulders in a gorgeous cascade, and she radiated an innate aura of nobility and power that transcended mere cultivation level.
Her mysterious attendant stood silently, motionlessly behind her chair like a statue carved from granite, his presence an immense, passive pressure filling the room.
She acknowledged my arrival coolly, her violet eyes appraising me thoughtfully. "Manager Qian had informed Us that you wish to offer recompense for the unfortunate incident with the Snow Lotus Fruit, Young Master Jiang?"
Her voice was calm, melodious, yet carried that innate weight of Imperial authority.
I bowed respectfully, far lower than I would for the likes of City Lord Zhang.
"Your Imperial Highness," I said sincerely, meeting her gaze directly, "this humble one feels deeply responsible for the slight loss of potency to the treasure you acquired, caused entirely by Inspector Liu's ignorance and arrogance. While the purchased fruit undoubtedly remains immensely valuable, the perfect purity of its essence was compromised due to circumstances beyond our control. I cannot abide such imperfections from an item I provided. Please allow me to offer a token of my sincere apology and profound respect for Your Highness's magnanimity during the incident."
With a smooth motion, I retrieved two identical Jade Boxes (extracted subtly from my storage bracelet, visually almost identical to the one auctioned yesterday) and placed them gently on the table before her.
"These," I explained dramatically, my voice filled with reverence, "contain not the mere 10,000-year fruit suitable for an auction in this poor region, but the far rarer, and far more valuable, Fifty-Thousand-Year Nine Nether Snow Lotuses from my personal collection, originally intended for my own use. Their potency," I added confidently, "is many times greater, their frost essence even purer, entirely untouched by local ambient Qi. Even the containers that hold them are masterpieces of formation craft, completely sealing the contents of the boxes from the world until they are ready to be used."
I pushed one box slightly forward.
"Please, accept one, Your Highness, as a token of my respect and profound regret for the damage caused to your acquisition yesterday. May it serve your cultivation well."
Almost immediately, the System flared again, reacting to the belief of the room's powerful occupants. Of course it did! After all, why wouldn't they believe in me now, after all of the drama with the first Lotus during the Auction?
[Socially-Significant Belief Source Detected! Source: Imperial Princess Long Xueyue; Belief Category Elevated!]
[Qualified Belief Detected. Belief Sources: Imperial Princess Long Xueyue (Foundation Establishment – Peak) (BQT 11); Wei Long (Golden Core – Peak) (BQT 11)!]
[Analyzing Belief: Jade Boxes Are Storage Artifacts Capable Of Completely Isolating Qi; User Possesses 2x 50,000-Year Nine Nether Snow Lotus Fruit]
[Threshold Met! Manifestation Activated! Target: Jade Boxes Interior]
[Manifestation Complete:
2x Supreme Grade Storage Artifacts
2x 50,000-Year Nine Nether Snow Lotus Fruit (Flawless State)]
[Belief Meter: +150000 (Extreme Quality Belief)!]
The Princess's regal composure visibly faltered for a long moment. A flicker of something – shock? Awe? Intense desire? – crossed her impossibly beautiful features before being instantly suppressed behind her mask of calm nobility. The faint, almost invisible frost that seemed to perpetually linger in the air around her (a manifestation of her physique and affinity, no doubt) deepened fractionally, causing the temperature in the already cool room to drop another degree. Her attendant behind her – Wei Long – remained statue-still, but I sensed a subtle tightening in his aura as well, a flicker of surprise even from him.
"Young Master Jiang is indeed as honorable and generous as the rumors claim," the Princess stated after a brief pause, her voice cool but holding a hint of genuine appreciation now.
"Few cultivators in this day and age value face and goodwill over tangible resources, especially resources of this caliber."
She examined the jade box in her hand thoughtfully.
"We are... impressed. We shall not forget this gesture. You… are dismissed, for now."
She didn't question me on the origin of the treasure. For someone of her status, at this moment, perhaps the details seemed irrelevant as long as the result was beneficial.
The System flared yet again, reacting to her potent belief and acceptance.
[Socially Significant Individual Detected! Belief Category Elevated!]
[Qualified Belief Detected. BQT Level 11 Met!]
[Analyzing Belief: User is Honorable, Generous, Possesses Immense Resources (Legendary Treasures), Possesses Special Constitution Aligned With The Nine Nether Snow Lotus]
[Threshold Met! Manifestation Initiated!]
[Attributes Updated: Special Constitution: Unknown (Detected - 40% Manifestation)!] [New Skill Manifested: Imperial Etiquette & Courtly Manners (Basic)]
[Belief Meter: +38000 (Extreme Quality Belief)]
Another significant jump in my constitution, and, was that a new skill?
How interesting!
And that multiplier – clearly, the beliefs of Imperial Royalty carried immense weight in the System's calculations.
As I subtly prepared to take my leave, having made tremendous gains, the powerful, Peak Golden Core attendant – Wei Long – spoke to me for the very first time, his voice deep, resonant, carrying an ancient weight that seemed to subtly shake the room.
"Young Master Jiang," he began respectfully, though his eyes held a sharp, penetrating quality, "one question before you leave, if I may permit myself?"
I paused, turning slightly to face him respectfully, meeting the gaze of this terrifyingly powerful expert.
"Of course! Esteemed Senior may ask."
"Those talismans you auctioned yesterday..." his voice was calm, measured, "...the craftsmanship is simply exquisite! But the unique technique that rendered the seals utterly invisible to both conventional sight and less powerful spiritual senses... it is unlike any method I have ever encountered in my admittedly long years! Just where,"
-- the bodyguard's eyes seemed to bore into my very soul, sharp and penetrating, seeking the truth, --
"did you acquire such unusual items?"
The question was casual in tone, but the intensity behind it, the demand for a real answer from someone of his level, was palpable.
My mind raced.
This was a genuine Peak Golden Core expert!
A random tall tale wouldn't cut it.
Outright refusal to answer or an attempt at deflection would seem weak, and worse -- evasive.
No, I needed something audacious, something unexpected, something that would put him off balance and fit my established persona of an enigmatic genius!
I met his gaze calmly, letting a faint, almost self-deprecating smile touch my lips.
"Acquire them, Esteemed Senior?" I asked, shaking my head slightly, as if the question itself was amusingly naive.
"Please forgive any misunderstandings caused on my part." I shrugged casually, projecting an air of someone discussing a simple, unremarkable activity.
"'Tis a small hobby of mine, you see. I find talisman crafting... rather relaxing in my spare time. I find that it helps clear the mind between cultivation sessions. A simple pastime, really."
I paused, then added with utter, unshakeable confidence, meeting his penetrating gaze without flinching, "I made them all myself, of course!"
The Wei Long's reaction was profound. His eyes widened almost comically in sheer disbelief. His impassive, granite-like expression flickered for an instant with absolute shock.
Princess Xueyue, too, looked intrigued – a thoughtful, calculating expression crossing her beautiful face as she regarded me with newfound interest.
I simply offered another deep, enigmatic bow and departed, leaving both of the room's occupants speechless and adding yet another layer to my rapidly growing, increasingly ridiculous legend.
In the quiet background of my mind, the System pinged softly, almost contentedly, confirming the impact of my parting shot.
[Socially Significant Individual Detected! Belief Category Elevated!]
[Qualified Belief Detected: Long Wei (Golden Core – Peak). BQT Level 11 Met!]
[Qualified Belief Detected: Imperial Princess Long Xueyue. BQT Level 11 Met!]
[Analyzing Belief: User Possesses Heaven-Defying Talisman Crafting Talent]
[Threshold Met! Manifestation Initiated!]
[New Skill Manifested: Talisman Crafting (Unique Sealing Method – Grandmaster)]
[Belief Meter: +250000 (Extreme Quality Belief)!]
The performance continues, I thought, allowing myself a small smile.