The Radiance of Power

After four grueling days of relentless travel, Navrat finally reached the massive, imposing walls of the capital city. Rising high above the surrounding plains, the city walls seemed like an unyielding fortress. Their sheer size and intricate carvings spoke of a long history steeped in power and wealth. Navrat stood still for a moment, taking in the sight. People bustled around him—merchants pulling carts, travelers with worn cloaks, and city guards carefully scrutinizing those entering the gates.

Despite the ordinary scene, Navrat’s instincts prickled. He kept his hood low, masking his presence. As the crowd surged forward, he slipped through the city gates unnoticed. Yet, just as he crossed the threshold, a chilling sensation crawled up his spine. His sharp senses caught an energy signature, one so profound it was nearly imperceptible—but to someone like Navrat, it was unmistakable.

It was a presence that radiated power beyond mortal comprehension, possibly even that of an immortal being. His pulse quickened. If he could sense this presence, it meant that being could sense him as well.

Without wasting another second, Navrat activated Shadow Step, his peak movement technique. The world around him blurred into streaks of gray as he vanished from the gate area, leaving no trace of his energy behind. Seven seconds passed in utter silence before a figure emerged from thin air at the gates.

A striking young woman stood where Navrat had been moments before. Her radiant blue hair cascaded over her shoulders, and her long, pointed ears marked her as a high elf. Though she wore simple, unassuming robes, her aura was suffused with immense power, perfectly restrained. There wasn’t even a flicker of energy leaking from her presence. Her sharp eyes scanned the area, narrowing slightly.

"I’m certain someone was here," she muttered softly, her voice calm yet tinged with curiosity. “No ordinary being should be able to detect me.”

She lingered for only a moment longer before vanishing as abruptly as she had appeared, the faintest shimmer in the air her only trace.

Navrat reappeared deep within the city, stabilizing himself in the shadows of an alley. His breath came in slow, measured waves as he controlled the adrenaline coursing through him. The presence he had sensed—it was no ordinary being. Even more troubling was the familiarity of it. It felt as though he had crossed paths with such an entity before, though he couldn’t immediately place when or where.

“This body… Ruhi’s body… isn’t ready for a confrontation of that level,” he thought grimly. Though Ruhi was conscious now, the process of merging their existences had taken a toll. Her body was frailer than it had been before, and every time Navrat pushed its limits, it retaliated with lingering pain and instability. Yet, he had no choice but to grow stronger—quickly.

Determined to keep moving, Navrat delved deeper into the bustling heart of the city. He needed to blend in and gather information about this new place, its players, and its secrets. His ears perked as he overheard merchants and travelers discussing an upcoming auction.

“The northern continent’s famed auction house is hosting it,” a trader whispered excitedly to a companion. “They’re saying there’ll be rare treasures this time—artifacts, techniques, even legendary supplements.”

“What about that radiant four-leaf clover? Is it real?” the companion asked, lowering his voice.

Navrat’s interest piqued at the mention of the clover. According to the trader, the clover was a natural treasure renowned for its ability to refine the body and greatly enhance physical strength. Its properties would be invaluable to Ruhi’s recovery and his plans to rebuild his power in this new vessel.

With that goal in mind, Navrat decided to participate in the auction. However, he needed to prepare. He glanced at the storage ring he had acquired from Elder Zakhia and began mentally cataloging its contents. There were several rare items he no longer needed, along with medicinal herbs he could refine into pills.

Navrat made his way to the auction house, a grand structure that loomed over the surrounding buildings. Its exterior was decorated with shimmering banners, each one depicting past events and treasures sold within. As he approached the main entrance, a receptionist greeted him with a professional smile, though her eyes betrayed suspicion at his heavily cloaked appearance.

“I’d like to register some items for the auction,” Navrat said calmly, keeping his voice even and low.

The receptionist hesitated but maintained her composure. “Of course, please follow me,” she said, gesturing toward a side corridor. She led him to a private waiting room, its interior adorned with luxurious furniture and soft lighting.

“Someone will attend to you shortly,” the receptionist said before excusing herself.

Navrat took a seat and glanced around the room. To ensure Ruhi’s safety, he crafted a hollow mask, infusing it with delicate yet formidable designs. The mask concealed her face entirely, making her identity impossible to discern while exuding an air of both beauty and danger.

After a few minutes, the door opened, and a tall, graceful woman stepped inside. She had flowing silver hair and striking emerald eyes that sparkled with intelligence. Her refined aura marked her as a high elf, though her demeanor was warm and approachable.

“Good evening, esteemed guest,” she said in a melodious voice that seemed to resonate with the room itself. “I am Dofia, an appraiser for the auction house. May I have the honor of knowing how to address you?”

Navrat felt the subtle waves of her technique—a passive speech enchantment designed to sway those with weaker willpower. He met her gaze unflinchingly. “Call me Zashia,” he replied smoothly.

“A pleasure to meet you, Miss Zashia,” Dofia said, her smile never wavering. “May I see the items you wish to auction?”

Without hesitation, Navrat flicked his wrist, and dozens of objects materialized on the table before them. Among them were rare artifacts, such as the Seven Blood Gene Wings, capable of granting extraordinary speed to cultivators who lacked the ability to form energy wings. There were also high-class techniques, refined pills, and precious materials.

Dofia’s composed expression faltered for a fraction of a second as her eyes widened in awe. She quickly regained her professionalism, though her tone carried a new level of respect.

“These items are… remarkable,” she said softly. Clapping her hands twice, she summoned a maid carrying two glasses of wine and an elderly man dressed in ceremonial robes.

“Elder Juna, I would like your analysis of these items,” she said with a sweet yet commanding voice.

The elder began inspecting each item meticulously, his experienced hands running over their surfaces as he muttered incantations. As he worked, Dofia handed one of the wine glasses to Navrat.

“Rare elven wine,” she said, smiling. “A small token of hospitality.”

Navrat accepted, taking a sip. The wine was exquisite, its flavors rich and layered. As they exchanged pleasantries, Elder Juna’s voice interrupted.

“These items are extraordinary,” he said, his tone laced with awe. “Their craftsmanship is impeccable, and the pills are among the finest I’ve seen. Even the medium-class techniques surpass most high-class ones on the market.”

Dofia’s smile deepened. “We will ensure these treasures fetch the highest price, Miss Zashia. As per our policy, the auction house will retain ten percent of the total earnings.”

“That’s acceptable,” Navrat said, inclining his head slightly.

Before leaving, Navrat asked, “Do you also sell Purple Royal Gene Cards?”

Dofia’s eyes glimmered with intrigue. “We do,” she replied. “Would you like one, Miss Zashia?”

“Yes.”

Dofia clapped her hands again, and moments later, a maid entered with a shimmering purple card in an elegant case. The card was a rare and prestigious payment method, accessible only to the elite. Money alone couldn’t buy it—it required the energy of a powerful cultivator to activate.

“What’s the price?” Navrat asked.

“Consider it a gift,” Dofia said, smiling warmly. “A token of goodwill from the auction house to a valued client.”

Navrat understood her intentions—she wanted to gauge his strength and establish a favorable relationship. Without hesitation, he infused the card with Ruhi’s blood and his life energy. The card glowed brightly before vanishing into his storage ring.

Dofia’s smile grew as she thought, So, she truly is powerful.

Before parting, Dofia handed Navrat a golden-red token. “Here is your VIP seat for tomorrow’s auction. I hope you enjoy the event.”

Navrat expressed his gratitude and left, booking a room in a nearby inn. There, he began his training, preparing both his mind and body for what awaited him.

The auction was bound to reveal much more than treasures—it could unveil opportunities, dangers, and possibly even answers about the mysterious presence he had sensed at the city gates.

The soft golden rays of dawn spilled into the grandiose streets of the capital city, heralding the much-awaited auction hosted by the renowned Northern Continents Trade Guild. The auction hall itself was a masterpiece, a towering structure of marble and gilded designs, with its entrance flanked by two immense statues of mythical beasts—symbols of the guild’s wealth and prestige.

By early morning, the hall was already bustling with energy. The air was thick with anticipation and chatter. Merchants, individual cultivators, and sect representatives filled the luxurious seating area. Distinguished sect leaders and elites were ushered into reserved VIP sections that boasted the best views of the stage.

Navrat, clad in his simple yet enigmatic cloak and mask, entered quietly, drawing no unnecessary attention. As he walked toward the reception area, he converted all his various currencies into gene coins, amassing a significant balance of 34 million—a sum capable of commanding the attention of the entire hall if revealed.

Finding his designated VIP seat, marked by the golden-red token Dofia had handed him the day before, Navrat sat silently, observing the room. His aura was carefully masked, blending seamlessly with the crowd. Yet, as he scanned the room, his senses prickled. From across the hall, he noticed a cloaked figure similar to himself. Their ordinary clothing belied a formidable presence—one so familiar and unnervingly strong that Navrat’s sharp instincts warned him. He chose not to act but noted the figure’s location with an unspoken caution.

The auction attracted some of the most prominent names in the cultivation world:

Heaven Sky Group: Led by their rising star, Ashant, a young cultivator famed for his strategic prowess and unparalleled swordsmanship. Accompanied by several elders and his assistant Cruz, Ashant exuded a commanding presence. Frost and Fire Sect: Represented by Farang, the sect’s top prodigy, known for his explosive fighting style and mastery of elemental arts. His younger sister, Wani, equally gifted though less aggressive, was at his side. Illunium Sect: Garima, an influential figure in her sect, stood with her elders. Her calm yet sharp demeanor hinted at her strength and intelligence. Individual Cultivators and Merchants: Figures like the famed rogue cultivator Baris the Lone Wolf, the merchant king Velain, and many others added variety and competition to the mix.

Each of these participants carried their agendas, and tensions crackled beneath the surface.

The early part of the auction featured items of modest value: pills, mid-tier weapons, and cultivation techniques. A skilled auctioneer, a confident young woman with a crisp voice, took the stage.

“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to today’s auction! We begin with this marvelous mid-tier technique, Crimson Steps. A versatile footwork technique, ideal for cultivators seeking agility. Starting bid: 10,000 gene coins.”

The bidding was brisk but measured, as merchants and mid-tier cultivators competed for items. A mid-tier sword fetched 78,000 gene coins, while a bundle of rare healing pills sold for 52,000. While the crowd was enthusiastic, the real excitement lay in the high-class items yet to come.

With the initial segment concluded, the atmosphere shifted palpably as Dofia took the stage. Her graceful movements and confident smile commanded respect, and the audience straightened in their seats.

“Esteemed guests,” Dofia began, her voice melodious yet firm, “we now enter the highlight of today’s event. These are treasures of immense value—reserved for the truly deserving.”

First Item: The Blue Emerald Sword

“A high-class treasure, the Blue Emerald Sword enhances both speed and attacking power. A perfect weapon for those who seek precision and might in battle. Starting bid: 2 million gene coins.”

Ashant of Heaven Sky Group immediately raised his hand.
“2.5 million,” he declared.

Farang from Frost and Fire Sect countered.
“3 million,” he said, his voice calm but resolute.

The bidding escalated quickly, with independent cultivators attempting to compete but faltering against the wealth of the sects. By the time the dust settled, the final bid was 7.8 million, claimed by Ashant with a triumphant smile.

Second Item: Double Recurved War Bow

“This legendary bow can strike targets kilometers away and generates its own arrows when energy is provided. An archer’s dream! Starting bid: 3 million gene coins.”

The competition for this item was fierce. Garima of Illunium Sect began the bidding at 3.2 million, but was quickly outdone by Velain, the merchant king, at 4 million.

A tense back-and-forth ensued, with Garima raising the stakes to 6.5 million, only to be outmaneuvered by Farang, who won the bow at an astounding 9 million gene coins.

Third Item: Seven Blood Gene Wing

“A rare treasure that grants speed comparable to intermediate to advanced transcendent-level cultivators. Starting bid: 4 million gene coins.”

Independent cultivators and sects alike clamored for this coveted item. Wani of Frost and Fire Sect entered the fray with a bid of 5 million, but Baris the Lone Wolf countered aggressively at 6 million.

The hall buzzed with energy as the bid climbed higher. In a surprise move, Cruz of Heaven Sky Group, usually silent, made a bold bid of 8 million, claiming the wing for his group.

Fourth Item: Techniques and Shield

The techniques (Explosive Step, Zeneric Link, Sky Piercing Spear) and the 4-Seal Shield were auctioned next, each drawing moderate but intense bidding.

Explosive Step: Sold to Garima for 3.6 million. Zeneric Link: Claimed by Farang for 4.2 million. Sky Piercing Spear: Won by Ashant for 5 million. 4-Seal Shield: Secured by Velain for 7 million gene coins. Fifth Item: Demon Phoenix Halo

“This radiant halo enhances the user’s strength, weapons, and even team members. A rare treasure, invaluable in both battle and strategy. Starting bid: 5 million gene coins.”

Navrat waited silently as the bidding began. Ashant opened confidently at 6 million, followed by Farang at 7 million.

The tension was palpable as the bids climbed. When the price reached 12 million, several participants dropped out, leaving only Ashant, Garima, and Navrat in the race.

“13 million,” Navrat declared, his voice steady but commanding.

Ashant’s face darkened, and he raised to 14 million. Navrat countered again, this time at 15 million. After a moment’s hesitation, Ashant relented, and the Demon Phoenix Halo was Navrat’s.

Sixth Item: Radiant 4-Leaf Clover

“A supplement capable of nurturing a cultivator’s body to unimaginable levels. Its complexity in usage makes it both a challenge and a treasure. Starting bid: 8 million gene coins.”

The hall fell into hushed awe as the item was presented. Navrat, knowing its value for Ruhi, was determined to claim it.

Garima started at 9 million, followed closely by Farang at 10 million. The bidding war intensified as independent cultivators joined, though they soon dropped out as the price soared to 14 million.

“15 million,” Navrat said firmly, silencing the hall.

Farang made a final attempt at 16 million, but Navrat’s unwavering 17 million sealed the deal.

As the auction concluded, the participants began to disperse, murmuring about the intense competition and the astronomical sums spent.

The next morning, Navrat paid for his items and collected the proceeds from his contributions: pills, mid-tier weapons, herbs, high-class wings, and the Sky Piercing Spear technique. The earnings were substantial, further bolstering his resources.

Before Navrat could leave, Dofia approached with a graceful smile.
“Miss Zashia,” she began, “might I interest you in the upcoming tournament three months from now? The rewards and prestige are unparalleled.”

Navrat listened carefully as she detailed the tournament’s significance. After a polite exchange, he accepted the invitation but offered no commitments yet.

Back in his room, Navrat carefully examined the Radiant 4-Leaf Clover, readying himself for the grueling refinement process. As he began his preparations, a quiet resolve filled him—each step was bringing him closer to his ultimate goals.