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The Stonegate Grand Auction continued its impressive procession of treasures. Wu Ken watched, mesmerized, as cultivators and wealthy merchants vied for rare herbs, defensive artifacts, and unusual beast eggs. He absorbed every detail—from the auctioneer's practiced cadence to the subtle shifts in Qi auras when a coveted item appeared. Master Zang Ai's dry commentary interjected often, pointing out true treasures dismissed as junk, or gaudy trinkets fetching absurd prices.
"The cultivation world is full of surprises. Sometimes true treasures are overlooked, and sometimes ordinary items become the center of attention."
As the hours passed, the hall grew quieter, anticipation thickening. The final items were always the most prized. The auctioneer's voice rang out:
"Esteemed guests! We now approach the grand finale of our auction! Prepare yourselves—the next three items are of truly exceptional caliber!"
A hush fell.
The first item was wheeled out: a long, gleaming saber, its blade shimmering with cold light.
"Our first final item," the auctioneer declared, "is the Cloud-Splitting Saber! Forged by Master Craftsman Ren Li, infused with rare Ice Essence. It delivers chilling strikes and enhances Qi flow—a treasure for any warrior!"
The bidding was fierce, but after a tense flurry of offers, the saber was sold for one thousand three hundred gold coins to a formidable cultivator in dark armor.
Next came a scroll in a crystal tube.
"For those seeking to expand their combat prowess," the auctioneer said, "we present the Azure Wave Fist! A Second Grade, Middle-level martial skill that mimics crashing ocean waves. A rare opportunity for any cultivator refining their offense!"
Again, the bidding surged. In the end, the scroll was claimed for one thousand and four hundred gold coins by a well-known sect elder seated near the front.
Wu Ken's eyes widened. His own Sky-Shattering Palm was Second Grade, Lower-level. The difference in power—and price—was clear. Yet his fragment still felt profound.
Finally, the auctioneer clapped his hands.
"And now, our final item! The pinnacle of today's offerings! For those seeking to transcend their limits, we present… the Giant's Fortifying Pill!"
A jade box opened, revealing a luminous golden pill pulsing with visible energy.
"This third Grade, Middle-level spiritual pill is crafted from rare Earth Essence and Ironroot Core. It greatly enhances physical strength and resilience, accelerating progress through the Body Tempering Stage!"
Wu Ken felt a jolt. Strength—exactly what he needed. His gaze locked on the pill, yearning flaring. Zang Ai remained silent, letting him absorb the moment.
The bidding was frenzied. In the end, it sold for two thousand gold coins, far beyond the reach of any small village.
As the final gavel echoed, Zang Ai finally spoke. "That pill would've suited you well. But your path isn't built on shortcuts. Let's see how far you go with grit alone."
Wu Ken sighed, regret flickering—but he pushed it aside. He had witnessed something incredible. The wealth and power of the cultivation world had unfolded before him. It was humbling, but also deeply motivating.
As the hall emptied, Elder Huan gathered their group. "Alright, everyone. We have what we came for. Let's make our way out and prepare for the journey back to Sunstone."
Wu Ken nodded, his mind buzzing with new knowledge and a sharpened resolve. He hadn't walked away with a fortune or a pill—but he had gained something far more valuable: a clearer vision of the path ahead, and the immense world he now sought to conquer.
The journey back would take about four hours—but his spirit had already surged far beyond the road.
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