Chapter 799: The Martial Gathering of the Clans
As the last divine pill was successfully auctioned, Xiao Ze smiled warmly and addressed the attendees.
"Thank you all for supporting this Source Realm's inaugural pill auction. I, Xiao Ze, deeply appreciate your participation."
With the conclusion of the auction, one would expect matters to settle. Instead, the ripples it caused began spreading wildly across the Great Thousand World, stirring even greater waves.
The alchemical prowess displayed during the auction both in terms of quality and quantity was nothing short of what one would expect from a true sacred land of alchemy.
The emergence of a new sacred land brought with it boundless opportunities and challenges. The auction was a clarion call, sure to attract innumerable alchemists and powerhouses eager to partake in the benefits of the Source Realm.
Farewell to the Heavenly Sovereigns
After the auction concluded, Xiao Ze personally bid farewell to the attending Heavenly Sovereigns. Almost every one of them had acquired divine pills, ensuring their journey was worthwhile. Many were also optimistic about the Source Realm's bright future as a sacred land for alchemy, fostering cordial relations with Xiao Ze.
By the time most had departed, only Sword Domain and the Futu Ancient Clan remained.
A Word with Sword Domain
Taking a deep breath, Xiao Ze first approached the platform where Sword Domain's contingent resided.
"Thank you for Sword Domain's support. Please convey my gratitude to Green Robed Sword Saint for his endorsement."
The First Domain Lord, a man with an air of calm authority and a sword always at his side, smiled in return.
"Haha, Source Realm Master, there's no need for formalities. Though the Source Realm is newly established, it already carries the air of a sacred land for alchemy. The day may soon come when Sword Domain regularly seeks your aid for pills."
Xiao Ze noticed a subtle shift in the First Domain Lord's tone. Previously, he had addressed Xiao Ze as Demon Slayer King, a title tied to his standing in the Great Thousand Palace. Now, however, he referred to him as Source Realm Master, a clear acknowledgment of the auction's success.
This change in address highlighted the auction's importance. Xiao Ze had successfully shifted his identity in the eyes of others from a Heavenly Sovereign warrior to a master alchemist and leader of a burgeoning sacred land.
"Though it's early to claim the title of sacred land, I am confident the Source Realm will achieve such heights soon."
The First Domain Lord nodded in agreement but quickly brought up another matter. "By the way, regarding the Barrier Breaking Heaven Pill could you refine another one if we provide the necessary resources? The matter of Sovereign Spiritual Liquid won't be an issue."
Xiao Ze smiled and replied, "The key ingredient for that pill is the Heavenly Essence Lotus, which is currently lacking. If Sword Domain can procure it, I would be more than willing to refine the pill."
The First Domain Lord glanced at the white robed girl standing beside him, then back at Xiao Ze.
"This is Ye Xinling, a disciple of the Green Robed Sword Saint. The pill would be for her use."
Ye Xinling stepped forward and greeted Xiao Ze with a respectful bow.
"Greetings, Source Realm Master. I am indeed the one who seeks this pill."
Xiao Ze's gaze fell on her, and he frowned slightly. "With your talent, Ye Xinling, you should be able to break through to the Heavenly Sovereign realm without such assistance. By the time the Heavenly Essence Lotus is found, you may already have achieved the breakthrough."
Ye Xinling responded with a self deprecating smile. "Senior, I'm confident in my talent, but breaking through the barrier to the Heavenly Sovereign realm is incredibly challenging. I've yet to find my own path to this stage."
The First Domain Lord added with a laugh, "Though Xinling is exceptionally gifted, she's not quite as monstrously talented as you, Source Realm Master. Besides, even if she does succeed on her own, a pill like the Barrier Breaking Heaven Pill would still be a valuable asset for our domain."
"Haha, fair enough. If Sword Domain can locate the Heavenly Essence Lotus, simply crush this jade slip to summon me." Xiao Ze handed over a jade token with a small smile.
With their request settled, Sword Domain's party took their leave.
A Visit with the Futu Ancient Clan
Xiao Ze then made his way to the platform where the Futu Ancient Clan resided.
"Apologies for keeping you waiting," he said, bowing slightly.
Futu Tian, the clan leader, waved him off with a genial laugh. "No need for apologies. Besides, it's not me you've kept waiting it's Jing'er who's been eager to speak with you."
Beside him, Qing Yanjing flushed slightly and shot her father a glare. "Father!"
Futu Tian chuckled knowingly. "Fine, fine, I'll stop teasing. I'll let you two catch up."
Qing Yanjing gave Xiao Ze an apologetic glance before sitting down to focus.
"Teacher Qing, I've prepared a set of insights into Grandmaster Spirit Arrays that may assist you in reaching the next level."
Xiao Ze raised a hand, conjuring a shimmering point of spiritual light, which he gently guided toward Qing Yanjing's forehead.
Without hesitation, she allowed the light to merge with her, closing her eyes as she entered a meditative state.
Futu Tian, watching from the side, raised an eyebrow. "I didn't expect you to share such precious insights so freely. These could be considered as valuable as a divine treasure."
"Teacher Qing has been a great help to me on numerous occasions. If I can assist her in any way, I'll gladly do so," Xiao Ze replied earnestly.
Futu Tian smiled approvingly. "Jing'er is lucky to have a student like you."
After a pause, Futu Tian's expression turned thoughtful.
"Speaking of important matters, the Martial Gathering of the Futu Clans is fast approaching. I'd like to formally invite you to attend as a guest of honor."
Xiao Ze's eyes lit up with interest. "The Martial Gathering of the Clans? That's one of the most significant events in the Futu Ancient Clan. I'd be honored to attend."
Futu Tian nodded. "It's an opportunity to observe talent from across our clan, and many superpowers send representatives to spectate. Perhaps you'll find something someone of interest there."
Xiao Ze understood the implication. Instead of searching the Great Thousand World aimlessly for talents with unique gifts or Golden Talents, this event would provide a concentrated group of potential candidates.
"Very well. I'll make the necessary preparations to attend," Xiao Ze replied with a faint smile.
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