After traveling for a full month, the trio finally reached the outskirts of the great Shi Tan Forest.
The towering trees loomed like silent watchers, their branches draped in thick moss. Sunlight pierced through the gaps, casting golden streaks over the worn path ahead. Birds chirped from hidden nests, and the rustle of leaves whispered secrets of the forest's depth.
Finally, Huo Chuntian sighed with relief, floating just above Mike's shoulder. We've arrived… but before we move further, wear these cloaks. And then I'll enter your body not to control you, just to stay hidden.
Jian Dao nodded. Alright. But these old cloaks? They're barely holding together. We should stop by a shop and grab new ones.
No, no, no, Huo Chuntian waved his hands quickly. No need. Mike, check your storage ring. I remember you have a suit inside.
Mike chuckled, reaching into his ring. I do, but it's trash now. Torn and burned after our last fight.
Not that one, Huo replied, eyes narrowed. Search better. Dig deeper.
Mike paused. Hmm... oh, wait found something. Yeah, there's a couple sets here. A black one and a white one.
He pulled them out. I'll wear the black. Master, the white one suits you.
Jian Dao grinned and took it. I've got better robes, but let's try yours today.
They both changed, their outfits clean and sharp. Mike's black ensemble hugged close to his body, armored lightly at the shoulders with metallic bands and chain-wraps on his forearms he looked like a seasoned warrior, distant and powerful. Jian Dao's white robes flowed like snow over stone, his posture noble and sharp-eyed.
Both donned masks of silver and obsidian, hiding their identities from prying eyes.
Alright, Jian Dao said. Let's move quickly.
With practiced stealth, they passed through the forest gate, then darted through trees and shadows until they emerged at the edge of Shi Tan City loud, bustling, and massive.
Stalls lined the broad stone streets. Cultivators walked in groups, blades at their sides, and vendors yelled prices over the clamor. Mike's eyes lit up at the colors, the life, the sheer energy of the place.
But what caught their attention stood at the far end of the main street: a towering, multi level building with golden lanterns and marble steps the Auction Hall.
Huo Chuntian's voice echoed from inside Mike. That hall looks rich with treasures.
Jian Dao nodded. Let's take a look.
Mike turned to Jian Dao. Master, how much gold do we actually have?
Jian Dao raised a brow. More than enough. I've saved for thirteen years without spending a coin. Imagine.
Huo laughed inside Mike. Mike, check your own storage ring too.
Mike blinked. You know a lot about my ring, don't you?
It was your father's, Huo said softly. I knew him. That ring hides more than just items.
Mike paused, reached into the ring, and pulled out a small velvet pouch. He opened it and gasped.
Twenty thousand gold, he whispered.
Jian Dao grinned. Well then. Let's enjoy ourselves.
They walked up the elegant steps of the auction hall, where a woman behind the reception counter smiled warmly at them.
Welcome to the Shi Tan Auction Hall, honored guests. The auction is about to begin. How may I help you?
We'd like a private room, Jian Dao said. There are two of us.
You're in luck, she said. Only one private room token remains. It's ten thousand gold per person.
Mike handed her the pouch. She counted, nodded, and retrieved a gleaming token engraved with a crane crest.
Please follow me, she said with a bow.
But as they turned to follow her, a sharp voice rang out behind them.
Fellow cultivators. Please wait.
The hall grew quiet. Mike and Jian Dao turned slowly.
A tall, regal man in a dark maroon robe stood at the entrance, his presence commanding, his aura faint but oppressive. A crest of the Jin Family glinted on his chest.
Before either could respond, the receptionist bowed low and rushed off.
Chairman Jin! Welcome. Let me call the manager for you.
Moments later, a woman in blue silk stepped onto the floor elegant, with cold, calculating eyes. I'm Lan Meiyu, the auction manager. Chairman Jin, how can we assist you?
I'm here to attend the auction, he said. But I need a private room.
Lan Meiyu hesitated. I'm sorry, sir… the last private token has just been claimed by these gentlemen.
Jin Renshu's gaze shifted to Mike and Jian Dao. I see.
He stepped forward slowly. I mean no offense. But might you be willing to give up your token?
Mike narrowed his eyes behind the mask. What do you mean 'give it up'? We paid first.
Jin Renshu smiled politely. Then perhaps I could make an offer in return. I, Jin Renshu of the Jin Family, greet you both with sincerity.
Jian Dao whispered to Mike, He's strong. And yes… he's the father of Jin Hao that brat from the academy.
Mike raised a brow. Really? The arrogant one?
Jian Dao nodded. His cousin is the son of Jin Kuanglie his elder brother. A well connected clan.
Jin Renshu looked back at them. Name your price. I'll trade you anything for the token.
Mike tilted his head. And if we say no?
Jin Renshu's expression turned cold.
Then I'll take it by force.
The temperature in the hall dropped. Cultivators nearby stopped whispering. Even the servants backed away.
Jian Dao turned slightly, one hand resting near his sword.
Mike said nothing but the air around him began to ripple subtly.