Immortality Begins With The Alchemical Master Chapter 254: Marriage Alliance, Quotas, Trading Convention, and Bargain Hunting - Novel Cool

Chapter 254: Marriage Alliance, Quotas, Trading Convention, and Bargain Hunting

Chapter 254: Marriage Alliance, Quotas, Trading Convention, and Bargain Hunting

Heavenly Wave Immortal City was the name of a city.

However, for the cultivators practicing here, Heavenly Wave Immortal City referred to the vast region both inside and outside its boundaries.

Excluding those mountain ranges and veins.

Around Heavenly Wave Immortal City, there was a river and a stream.

The river was named Yun Jin, not very large, and couldn't compare to the Lan Cang River in Dahedao Market.

The main water source came from the rushing streams flowing out from beneath Celestial Wave Peak in the city.

As for the river, it was extraordinary.

Qin Hua River was a massive waterway formed by the convergence of numerous creeks and rivers within the Jade Peak Region.

Rushing along its course, it flowed into the distant East Sea.

This river flowed through a vast distance, making it incredibly resource-rich.

The Li Family merely occupied a small stretch of the riverbank, yet they had prospered for two hundred years.

However, as the lifespan of their ancestor neared its end, the Li Family's situation became precarious.

Fortunately!

A joyous event of immense significance washed away the unease in the hearts of the Li Family cultivators.

The Li Family was about to form an alliance with the newly emerging powerful Luo Tianhui in Heavenly Wave Immortal City!

Or perhaps it shouldn't be called an alliance, but a marriage alliance.

Today, the leader of Luo Tianhui personally led a group to the Li Family, offering betrothal gifts and proposing a marriage between Sima Xian, a little-known member of Luo Tianhui, and Li Yingjun, the direct granddaughter of the Li Family's Foundation Establishment Ancestor.

The process, of course, was uneventful.

The only strange thing was that Sima Xian, Li Yingjun's betrothed, was not well-known within Luo Tianhui.

Using the term 'little-known' might not be entirely appropriate.

But how could a mere Elder of the Medicine Hall, responsible for spiritual plants, be a match for Li Yingjun?

Luo Chen didn't care about the thoughts of low-level cultivators.

He could roughly understand the thoughts of the Li Family's ancestor.

Sima Xian's cultivation realm was too high!

Moreover, it seemed that he had no hope of reaching the Foundation Establishment stage, which would only cause him to have inappropriate thoughts and covet the Li Family's wealth.

In comparison, Yuan Dongsheng, although not as famous and with a lower cultivation realm, was a true powerhouse.

He was someone with great authority despite his low position!

Yuan Dongsheng controlled hundreds of first-tier spirit fields belonging to Luo Tianhui.

Such an existence was undoubtedly a pillar of Luo Tianhui!

Moreover, with his focus on managing Luo Tianhui's spirit fields, he wouldn't have any spare thoughts to covet the Li Family's wealth.

Looking at his aged face, which was barely recognizable but still wore a cheerful smile, Luo Chen secretly called him an old fox in his heart.

"President Luo, please try the spiritual tea from my Li Family," Li Jinhuang said with a smile.

Luo Chen had no reason to refuse, so he picked up the Li Family's specialty, the spiritual tea.

He carefully savored it before putting it down.

"The taste is fresh and mellow, with a lingering sweetness."

"The medicinal flavor is subtle, but the spirit energy is like a painting in the clear sky, leaping into the dantian and the qi sea."

"This method of infusing medicine into tea is truly marvelous!"

Upon hearing this praise, Li Jinhuang's cloudy eyes lit up.

"Friend, you are a tea connoisseur!"

Luo Chen smiled slightly and humbly replied with a few modest words.

His knowledge of spiritual tea was not as extensive as his knowledge of spiritual wine.

The previous praise was merely a passage he had intentionally memorized from the information he had gathered about the Li Family.

Outside, the engagement banquet was lively and bustling.

Inside, the two Foundation Establishment cultivators were polite and courteous, exchanging pleasantries.

However, Luo Chen's visit today was not just for this trivial matter; otherwise, he would have let Sima Huiwang handle it.

"Let's get to the point!"

Luo Chen put down his teacup.

Li Jinhuang's expression also became serious.

"I've never participated in the Immortal City Auction, nor do I know much about it. I need your guidance, Fellow Daoist Li, on the taboos and unspoken rules within."

This was his true purpose.

Li Jinhuang had been operating in Heavenly Wave Immortal City for over two hundred years, making him very experienced.

With his limited lifespan remaining and the future reliance on Luo Chen's protection for the Li Family, he naturally wouldn't hold back in this matter.

Compared to Shi Boying, Xuan Yunzi, and others, Luo Chen trusted Li Jinhuang more, as they had shared interests.

As expected, Li Jinhuang soon explained some things that Luo Chen didn't know.

"The Immortal City Auction is usually hosted by two major sects, except when Jade Cauldron Sword Sect holds it alone."

"Such a grand event will undoubtedly attract Golden Core Cultivators."

"One of the taboos is that once a Golden Core Cultivator sets their eyes on an item, no matter how wealthy we Foundation Establishment cultivators are, we should avoid getting involved. The consequences are beyond our ability to bear."

Luo Chen's eyebrows furrowed, "Has there been a precedent?"

"Yes!"

Li Jinhuang explained an incident from a few decades ago when a major power used its wealth to compete with a Golden Core Cultivator for an auction item.

They won!

The consequence was that the entire power was destroyed by the enraged Golden Core Cultivator.

The Immortal City didn't provide any explanation.

"What we Foundation Establishment cultivators desire most are Core Formation Spirit Treasures. My advice is not to participate in the bidding unless you've reached the late Foundation Establishment stage," Li Jinhuang said confidently.

Luo Chen's eyebrows furrowed.

"Could there be murder and treasure theft as well?"

"Such incidents are inevitable. But the real danger comes from the six... no, now it's the five Golden Core Great Sects."

Li Jinhuang corrected himself, pointing upwards.

"Unless you have the support of the Great Sects above, the path to Core Formation will undoubtedly be filled with challenges."

"I'm not privy to the specifics, but I'm sure that with your young age and such a realm, you'll naturally come to know the inside story in the future."

Luo Chen took a deep breath and asked in confusion, "Then who are the Core Formation Spirit Treasures at the auction prepared for?"

"They are for Golden Core Masters, powerful late-stage Foundation Establishment Cultivators, and those with close ties to the Great Sects."

Li Jinhuang tentatively said, "It seems that you have a good relationship with the Ice Fortress. Shouldn't that be considered a close connection as well?"

Luo Chen reluctantly nodded.

His relationship with the Ice Fortress couldn't be considered very close at the moment.

Or rather, he had a better relationship with Dantu Jinou.

But when it came to Core Formation Spirit Treasures, the other party might be even more eager.

"Additionally, regarding Foundation Establishment Spirit Treasures..."

At this point, Li Jinhuang looked at Luo Chen with a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.

"I suppose you'd want a spot, right?"

A spot!

This was what Luo Chen desired the most.

During the Dahe Market auction, he had witnessed the entire process of the Foundation Establishment Pill auction.

Aside from the one left for Loose Cultivators, the rest were divided among the four major Foundation Establishment forces.

This implied that there must have been private connections among Foundation Establishment Cultivators.

Different places would have similar rules, with little variation.

The same was true for Heavenly Wave Immortal City.

Luo Chen had privately inquired with Chu Kui, and the Foundation Establishment Pill spots in the Immortal City were also subject to certain rules.

Only those who had been rooted in Heavenly Wave Immortal City for more than fifty years were eligible to participate in that grand division.

Emerging forces like Luo Tianhui had no spots.

If they wanted one, they would have to compete with Loose Cultivators and pay a high price.

Moreover, they were very likely to offend the Golden Core Great Sects.

"It seems, Li Daoist, that you understand my thoughts," Luo Chen openly acknowledged his intentions.

Li Jinhuang sighed, "In that case, I'll give you the Li family's spot this time! The agreed-upon price is five thousand Spirit Stones per pill."

"So high?" Luo Chen was surprised.

During the Dahe Market auction, Foundation Establishment Cultivators had privately set the price at only two thousand Spirit Stones per pill!

"Foundation Establishment Pills are always precious, and most come from Nascent Soul High Lords. This time, the Falling Cloud Sect and the Medicine King Sect are offering Foundation Establishment Pills."

Li Jinhuang said earnestly, "We have to give face to the Falling Cloud Sect!"

Understood!

The Falling Cloud Sect was a newly established Nascent Soul High Lord.

With their ally, Green Pill Valley, participating in this auction, the Falling Cloud Sect's willingness to provide Foundation Establishment Pills was a show of support for their ally.

There were too many intricacies, and Luo Chen didn't want to think too deeply about them. He would just follow the flow when the time came.

"Additionally, before the auction begins, the Immortal City will also open up a market for everyone to engage in free trade."

"This is a great opportunity for Foundation Establishment forces like us to do business, and you, Daoist Luo, must not miss it."

Luo Chen nodded; he was aware of this.

During the Dahe Market period, the Jade Cauldron Sword Sect had also done the same, and it had become a standard procedure.

After that, Luo Chen and Li Jinhuang chatted for a long time, even exchanging insights on Foundation Establishment. Only when he saw fatigue on Li Jinhuang's face did Luo Chen take his leave.

After he left,

Li Jinhuang's face still showed fatigue, but he forced himself to stay alert.

A young lady entered.

"Grandpa!"

"Have you seen your fiance?"

Li Yingjun bit her teeth and nodded lightly, "Yes, he's a decent person."

"Is his relationship with the Master of Luo Tianhui as good as the rumors say?"

Li Yingjun hesitated, "I think it's pretty good. They had interactions even before he became famous. Later, after Senior Luo Chen became successful, the Yuan family contributed a lot. It's said that when Grandma Yuan passed away, he personally sent her off and even instructed Luo Tianhui to give her a grand funeral."

Is that so? Li Jinhuang breathed a sigh of relief.

If it were before, he might have had other thoughts.

But after meeting Luo Chen, those thoughts were completely erased.

This young man was not old, but he was steady and reliable.

If he went there, the Li family cultivators would never dare to cause trouble under his watchful eyes.

In that case, it would be better to let his granddaughter deeply integrate into Luo Tianhui, gain a close relationship, and indirectly benefit the Li family.

Seeing his grandfather's age and the burden he was shouldering,

Li Yingjun's face showed a trace of guilt and self-blame.

"It's all our fault, the younger generation, for making you, Grandpa, work so hard."

"

Li Jinhuang, however, shook his head.

"You can't blame yourselves for this. In fact, even if one of you were to become a Foundation Establishment Cultivator right now, I would still choose to ally with the Luo Tianhui."

Li Yingjun was stunned.

Why was this?

Li Jinhuang sighed, "Your vision is too narrow, and you're only looking at the short-term. The grand trend in the Jade Peak Region is slowly changing, and the Qinhuajiang Li Family is insignificant in the face of this overwhelming force. How can we rely on just one or two Foundation Establishment Cultivators to ensure our safety?"

Li Yingjun exclaimed in surprise, "Grandfather, are you referring to the battle between the Nascent Soul High Lords?"

"Mhm."

"But things have been much calmer these past two years, haven't they?"

"Calmer?" Li Jinhuang scoffed, "What difference does it make if it's calm for a few more years or even decades? The fundamental conflict has never been resolved."

Li Yingjun asked, "The hatred formed during the initial battles between the two sides, resulting in the deaths of many disciples and followers?"

"No, that's nothing. Every sect has shed the blood of their fellow sect members."

Li Jinhuang's expression turned solemn as he said, "The root of the conflict lies in the fact that the Jade Peak Region is too small to accommodate two Nascent Soul Sects!"

The young woman's mouth hung slightly open, her expression filled with shock.

"So, there will be more fighting in the future?"

"Yes!" Li Jinhuang spoke with conviction, his tone cold, "Not only will there be more fighting, but it might even be more intense than before. Perhaps all the sects in the Jade Peak Region, big and small, will be swept up in it."

This was the reason he wanted to find a powerful ally for the Li Family.

As for why he chose the newly emerged powerful Luo Tianhui, he had his own considerations.

Whether it was to establish dominance upon arrival, quickly find a powerful Golden Core Sect as an ally, or later use non-violent means to effortlessly and forcefully enter the market for first-tier cultivation pills...

All these actions indicated that there were capable individuals within the Luo Tianhui.

These capable individuals were usually restrained by various rules and regulations, but in times of great chaos, they would thrive and rise to the occasion.

After a brief interaction, Li Jinhuang was certain that the capable individual in the Luo Tianhui was none other than Luo Chen! It wasn't based on detailed intelligence, but rather a gut feeling.

"Yingjun!"

"I've set aside some Foundation Establishment resources for your brother. If he doesn't succeed, then so be it. But if he does, you must have him join the Luo Tianhui!"

Li Yingjun, still in a state of shock, heard these words and was completely dumbfounded.

"Grandfather, we can't do that! My Li Family..."

"Listen to me!" Li Jinhuang's expression turned stern, "Your brother is obsessed with cultivation. I will remind him later, but if I'm not around, it's up to you to keep him on track."

"Luo Chen is not someone you can mess with!"

...

One month later!

At the very center of Immortal City.

Seven beast-drawn carriages changed their route, concentrating their stops at a massive square in the heart of the city.

Every day, countless cultivators would arrive.

In the vast square, numerous temporary stalls were set up.

These stalls were rented by various families and households.

Many loose cultivators also set up their own street stalls.

The lively and familiar scene would last for a full nine days!

After nine days, the official Immortal City auction would commence and continue for three days.

However, this formal auction was not something ordinary loose cultivators could participate in.

From Golden Core Cultivators to Qi Condensation Stage Cultivators, only those with invitations or who passed the qualification examination could attend.

In preparation for this grand event, the Luo Tianhui was bustling with activity.

Luo Chen boldly rented three stalls from Frostwhirl Palace.

Pills, magical tools, and snacks.

With only nine days, he had to seize the opportunity, as he might earn a month's worth of profits.

The cultivators from the Battle Hall worked tirelessly, transporting the produced goods from Crimson Peak.

On the Golden Hall side, Gu Caiyi temporarily handed over the management of the Crimson Hall to trusted female cultivators.

As for Luo Chen?

After a month of intense pill refining, he finally took a break.

Alone, he concealed his aura, changed his appearance, and wandered through the market of the Heavenly Wave Trading Fair.

"As a time-traveler, I've never had the chance to find hidden treasures in this life!"

He conveniently ignored the massive opportunity with the Imperial Flow Paste.

That was Wang Yuan's doing, not his own merit.

But this time, he was determined to explore thoroughly.

To relax and find hidden treasures!

"Cultivators from all over the world have brought a wide variety of items. Perhaps I'll find something suitable for me."

"Not being able to enter the auction doesn't mean there are no good things."

"With my increasingly transparent spirit eyes, it's time for me to find some hidden treasures!"

Luo Chen chuckled, rubbing his hands together in anticipation of a great haul!

(End of Chapter)

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