Chapter 56: Let the Auction Begin

The setting sun bathed the streets of Linhai district in hues of gold and crimson as Jiang Feng made his way home from Embersteel Shop. His thoughts were preoccupied with the forging process he had undertaken earlier, the subtle improvements to his Skyforge flame he began to notice, and how he could continue honing his craft. Yet, as he passed a bustling tavern, snippets of conversation caught his attention.

"Did you hear? The Ji Auction at the Golden Exchange Pavilion starts tonight. They say a rare dagger technique is one of the highlights, I heard it called Silent Reaper Technique. Perfect for assassins or those who value precision in combat!"

Jiang Feng paused mid-step, the name of the technique stirring his interest. A dagger technique like Silent Reaper Technique could prove invaluable for close-quarters combat, offering him a versatile edge in his growing arsenal of skills. However, he quickly sobered at the thought of his current wealth—or lack thereof. His savings amounted to only 30 spirit stones, far from sufficient to compete with the affluent bidders who frequented the Ji Auction.

The reason why he took a fancy to the name of the technique was because he posed a unknown dagger that was left by his father, not only that but he was amazed at how the Shadow Church could come and go, what if he could fight fire with fire?

As his mind churned for a solution, an idea took root. Within his spatial ring were rare forging materials left behind by his father, treasures that he had been reluctant to use out to even now. But if he wanted to seize this opportunity, he had no choice. After a moment's deliberation, he decided on four materials that would fetch a high price without jeopardizing his future forging endeavors:

1. Starfire Ore – A radiant metal imbued with fire-attribute energy, prized for creating heat-resistant weapons.

2. Silverwood Essence – A liquid extracted from a rare spiritual tree, often used to enhance weapon flexibility and durability.

3. Thundersteel Core – A dense metallic fragment pulsing with latent lightning energy, ideal for crafting weapons with explosive effects.

4. Obsidian Tear Crystal – A jet-black gem known for its ability to amplify the sharpness of blades.

When Jiang Feng looked inside the ring, his mind seemed to name and recall all types of ores, which stump him on the spot. 'How did I know all those materials and their properties and use' Jiang Feng stood rooted to the ground. He had only thought about the idea and was going to sort through what he should pick when his eyes scanned over four materials and their name and everything were voiced out of his mouth.

"Now thats scary" Jiang Feng pulled his mind from the ring with a confused expression. 'I never truly looked into nor did Senior Codex told me what exactly my blacksmith's bloodline could do. I should ask it when it awakens again'

With his plan set, Jiang Feng adjusted his route toward the Golden Exchange Pavilion, his steps quickening. He couldn't afford to draw attention to himself, so he decided to purchase a simple yet effective disguise—a plain black mask that gave him the appearance of a messenger for some reclusive master, the total cost was 1 spirit stone. The anonymity would not only protect him from unwanted scrutiny but also lend weight to his fabricated story.

Arriving at the towering Golden Exchange Pavilion, Jiang Feng entered the grand lobby, a sprawling space lit by arrays of spirit beams and filled with the hum of excited patrons. He approached the appraisal counter, presenting the four materials with a calm yet confident demeanor but was very nervous inside, almost to the point of shaking.

The appraisers, a group of stern-looking elders with keen eyes seated behind a table, carefully examined the items before nodding in satisfaction and amazement. One of them even look to the others as if wanting to not auction the materials but rules were rules.

They then sized Jiang Feng up, looking from the materials to the young man hiding his face behind a mask. Many experts did this kind of thing, most time one's wealthier was their demise. They had no issues with someone wanting to hide their face, as long as they were there to spend money, it didn't matter.

"These are indeed of exceptional quality," one of them remarked. "Their total value grants you a credit of 400,000 low grade spirit stones. Should your expenditure fall below this amount, you'll receive the remainder in spirit stones. If you exceed it, you must provide payment or equivalent goods to cover the balance."

'Holy shit, 400,000? That's double the yearly tax the Lin courtyard should pay, shit I'm rich. Maybe I could sell some more at a later date to assist with the tax payment' Feng thought, want to jump and sing.

Jiang Feng then accepted the intricately inscribed credit card they handed him and stepped back into the thrumming energy of the auction hall. As he waited for the event to begin, his thoughts remained focused. Silent Reaper, he mused. A technique like that would not only enhance his combat repertoire but also solidify his standing in a world where strength and skill often dictated survival.

Tonight, he would play his role to perfection, navigating the auction with calculated steps least he expose himself and land in shit. Failure was not an option.

Jiang Feng lingered in the bustling hall of the Golden Exchange Pavilion, his gaze scanning the crowd. The air hummed with anticipation as elegantly dressed merchants, noble families, and cultivators gathered in clusters, their whispers and laughter punctuating the steady murmur of the crowd. Each individual here had wealth or connections—often both—and carried themselves with the arrogance that came with power.

Though Jiang Feng's mask concealed his identity, he couldn't shake the feeling of standing out. Beneath his unassuming black cloak, his heart beat steadily as he adjusted the pouch containing his credit card. This was his first time at an auction and it was of such magnitude, and the stakes were high.

The grand hall itself was a testament to luxury. The walls were adorned with intricate carvings of mythical beasts, shimmering under the glow of spiritual lights. The ceiling arched high above, painted to mimic a starry night sky, while golden chandeliers hung like radiant moons.

An attendant approached him, bowing respectfully. "Honored guest, the auction will begin shortly. If you require refreshments or assistance, please let us know."

Jiang Feng gave a curt nod, keeping his voice low. "I'm fine."

The attendant retreated, and Jiang Feng moved toward the seating area, ensuring to choose a spot that offered a clear view of the stage but was distant enough to avoid drawing attention. From there, he observed the competition.

Among the crowd, a few figures stood out. A burly man clad in crimson armor, his aura radiating raw strength, chatted with a refined woman wearing a silver veil that sparkled faintly. Nearby, a young man in an elaborate jade robe lounged carelessly, a fan in one hand, though his sharp eyes betrayed his calculated nature.

Jiang Feng's attention shifted as a gong sounded, silencing the hall. All eyes turned to the stage, where a middle-aged auctioneer dressed in flowing blue robes stepped forward. His voice, amplified by a spiritual artifact, carried effortlessly through the room.

"Welcome, esteemed guests, to tonight's Ji Auction at the Golden Exchange Pavilion. As always, we have gathered treasures that reflect the unparalleled strength and expertise of this great city. Let us begin!"

Applause rippled through the room as the first item—a set of spirit-forged throwing knives—was presented. The bidding began with fervor, the competition fierce even for minor items. Jiang Feng's fingers drummed against his leg as he watched, gauging the energy of the room.