Chapter 238: Celestial Haven Out For Auction
Captain Zao, who had been observing the newcomers, approached the young cultivator with a reassuring smile. Placing a hand on the lad's shoulder, he spoke with a calm and reassuring tone, "Kid, don't worry. This is the environment of the second floor, known as the undead world. The chill you feel is a natural part of this realm. It's an environment where we'll help you grow stronger."
The young cultivator looked up at Captain Zao, his surprise was evident in his eyes. To have one of the alliance leaders personally addressing him was an unexpected honor. He nodded respectfully, still feeling a mixture of awe and nervousness. "Thank you, Captain Zao. I'm eager to learn and train here."
Captain Zao's smile widened. "That's the spirit. Familiarize yourself with this environment, and as you train and cultivate, you'll adapt to the unique challenges of the undead world. Remember, for now, you won't be able to leave the base without reaching the Golden Core Realm cultivation level. However, we're planning to build a special training ground that will aid you on your journey."
The young cultivator's eyes sparkled with determination. "I'll work hard to reach that level. And thank you for this opportunity, Captain Zao."
Captain Zao patted the young cultivator's shoulder encouragingly. "Good. Just remember, we're here to support each other. If you have any questions or need guidance, don't hesitate to ask. And keep your eyes on the goal. One day, you'll be able to venture beyond the base and explore the world outside."
As the young cultivator nodded with gratitude, his gaze shifted slightly, and he couldn't help but steal a glance at Alix. The young leader was standing nearby, exuding an aura of strength and confidence that left an indelible impression on him. It was hard to believe that Alix was around the same age as him, yet he had accomplished so much.
Captain Zao noticed the young cultivator's glance and chuckled softly. "I see you're looking at Alix. He's quite the inspiration, isn't he?"
The young cultivator blushed slightly, embarrassed that his admiration had been so transparent. "Yes, Captain Zao. He is young, yet he has achieved so much. I look up to him."
Captain Zao's eyes twinkled with understanding. "Indeed, he's a testament to what hard work, and dedication can achieve. You have the potential to accomplish great things too, as long as you stay focused and persevere."
With those words of encouragement, Captain Zao left the young cultivator to explore the base. The young cultivator took a deep breath, feeling a newfound determination coursing through him. He was ready to embrace the challenges of the undead world, inspired by the leaders of the alliance who had paved the way for their success.
-----------
Argon, watched intently through a floating screen in front of him. His eyes narrowed as he witnessed Alix initiate the upgrade, paying the substantial sum of 250,000 soul coins.
A smirk formed on Argon's lips as soon as the transaction was complete. "Easy money," he chuckled to himself, a glint of self-satisfaction in his eyes. "I'm really a genius for thinking of such a scheme."
The system implanted within Argon's mind, an entity with its own thoughts and consciousness, responded with an electronic tone. "I must admit that the host's idea to offer upgrades in the Celestial Haven is quite clever. It's a win-win situation, generating benefits for both them and ourselves."
Argon leaned back on his throne, relishing in his calculated victory. "Indeed, they get stronger, their forces thrive, and I get a handsome cut. Half of the soul coins go to me, and the other half to the system."
The system's response was calm and analytical. "Agreed. While we only receive half of the amount, it is still a significant sum. As the Celestial Haven gains recognition and more forces become interested, our gains will only multiply."
Argon's eyes gleamed with anticipation. "I can't wait for the Celestial Haven's reputation to spread far and wide. When other forces from the two continents come seeking the Celestial Haven, our fortune will truly skyrocket."
Argon's mind was abuzz with the success of his plan as he decided to reach out to his trusted subordinate, Cambion. "Cambion," he communicated silently, "how is the publication of the Celestial Haven going?"
The reply came swiftly, Cambion's voice echoing in Argon's mind, "My Lord, the auction has been a resounding success. The Celestial Haven was sold for an impressive 250,000 soul coins."
Argon's surprise was evident, a pleased smile playing on his lips. "That's more than I expected. Who emerged as the winning bidder?"
Cambion's mental response was prompt, "It's one of the major forces of the Azure Continent, my lord."
Argon's intrigue deepened, his brows furrowing thoughtfully. "Oh... That's to be expected. After all, we didn't make a big announcement about this auction."
Cambion's thoughts reverberated in Argon's mind, "Indeed, My Lord. However, the news of the Celestial Haven's capabilities and upgrades has already spread far and wide, capturing the interest of those who seek to enhance their power."
Argon's gaze returned to the floating screen displaying Alix's actions. "Well done, Cambion. This is just the beginning. The Celestial Haven's reputation will continue to grow."
Cambion's mental tone was respectful, "Your foresight in this matter has proven to be most rewarding, My Lord. The Celestial Haven's potential for profit is vast."
Argon chuckled softly, a sense of triumph filling him. "Indeed, Cambion. As the Celestial Haven becomes a beacon of progress, we shall reap the rewards of our strategic endeavors."
With their exchange concluded, Argon's mind returned to his observation of the unfolding events. He was now more determined than ever to seize every opportunity that the cultivation world had to offer, leveraging the growing reputation of the Celestial Haven to further his own ambitions.
----------- ????????????????????????????????.????????????
In the secret chamber, Kaelar, Althea, and Garok, along with the array masters, were fully engrossed in their task, channeling their Qi into the intricate seal before them. Their efforts were focused and synchronized, a testament to their expertise in manipulating the mystical energies.
Amidst their concentrated exertions, the atmosphere shifted with the arrival of two imposing figures – Grand Elder Lan and Grand Elder Zhi, representatives of Kaelar and Althea's respective sects. Accompanying them was Thorn, Garok's trusted right-hand man. Despite their attempts to conceal it, a palpable sense of excitement.
Kaelar was the first to break the silence, addressing Grand Elder Lan with concern, "Grand Elder Lan, what brings you here? Is everything alright with the sect?"
Althea added, her voice tinged with worry, "Grand Elder Zhi, is our sect facing any difficulties?"
Garok, however, chose to await Thorn's response, his piercing gaze fixed upon his loyal subordinate.
Grand Elder Lan's eyes gleamed with enthusiasm, a rare sight for the usually composed elder. "The sect is thriving, Sect Master! But I come bearing news about a remarkable opportunity - the Celestial Haven has become a topic of great interest in the cultivation world!"
Grand Elder Zhi chimed in, echoing the excitement, "Indeed, Sect Master. The Celestial Haven was recently auctioned off in a special event on the exchange floor of the tower."
Kaelar's brows furrowed in confusion, his interest piqued. "Celestial Haven? What is that?"
Althea and Garok exchanged intrigued glances, sharing Kaelar's confusion. They had been secluded within the secret chamber, focused on their task, and were largely unaware of recent developments outside.
Grand Elder Zhi offered an explanation, "Sect Master, the Celestial Haven is a unique item. It grants the owner a safe territory within the tower where they can establish a base. This sanctuary offers protection and resources for cultivation and planning."
Garok's curiosity got the better of him, and he questioned further, his voice cold and demanding, "Tell me more, Thorn. What benefits does this Celestial Haven offer?"
Thorn responded with respect, though a hint of regret in his tone, "Master, the Celestial Haven is indeed a valuable asset. It provides a secure haven within the tower, allowing one to build a base and gather resources the monsters inside constantly attacking our base. This can greatly enhance the cultivation and strength of any forces."
Garok's expression remained impassive, but a trace of frustration flickered in his eyes. "And did you secure this Celestial Haven for our clan?"
Thorn's tone was tinged with sadness as he replied, "Unfortunately no, Master. The special auction for the Celestial Haven was held without prior announcement. Only those present on the exchange floor at that time had the opportunity to participate."
