Chapter 45: Zhong Liwu's Conspiracy
Half an hour passed, and the competition gradually neared its end.
"80 million gold soul coins!"
Ning Qitian's voice rang out again, this time increasing the bid by 5 million gold soul coins, showcasing his immense financial power and determination.
His voice struck like a hammer, hitting the hearts of everyone present.
The other bidders, hearing this price, couldn't help but gasp in shock. Their faces revealed hesitation and helplessness.
On Douluo Continent, while many factions possessed considerable wealth, few could match the Nine Treasure Glazed Tile Sect, whose wealth rivaled nations.
This price had exceeded the limit for many, forcing them to reconsider the value of this auction.
Ning Qitian surveyed the room, his gaze full of pride.
He knew well that, in terms of financial power, few factions could challenge the Nine Treasure Glazed Tile Sect in this auction.
Although they might not be the strongest in terms of soul masters, their vast wealth and long-standing commercial empire made them almost invincible on the battlefield of money.
"Such a pity!"
Xu Jiawei couldn't help but sigh, a look of regret on his face.
He weighed his options internally. After considering everything, this price seemed a bit too high.
Spending this much gold soul coin on an herb that may or may not have a positive effect on the Star Crown Martial Soul wasn't a good deal from both an economic and strategic standpoint.
He shook his head helplessly, abandoning the thought of continuing the bidding.
"Heh..."
"Interesting. I wonder if you can keep this Qiluo Tulip."
On the other side, in the Holy Spirit Sect's camp, Zhong Liwu wore a dangerous smile, one that sent chills down people's spines, as if a storm was about to hit.
His eyes were fixed on the direction of the Nine Treasure Glazed Tile Sect, as if planning something.
"80 million gold soul coins, once!"
Jiang Li's voice rang through the auction hall as his gaze swept across the entire room, not missing a single corner.
"80 million gold soul coins, twice!"
His voice again sounded, each word seemingly ringing like a countdown in the hearts of the crowd.
"80 million gold soul coins, three times!"
Jiang Li checked once more, confirming no further bids, and then decisively announced the final outcome of the Qiluo Tulip auction.
"If no one else is bidding, I will now announce that the second item, the Qiluo Tulip, has been sold to 4th floor, number 7."
His voice was clear and loud, declaring the end of this fierce auction.
Jiang Li had already anticipated this price.
Even a real 100,000-year-old soul bone would only fetch around 100 million gold soul coins at the auction.
As for the other soul masters, they hadn't expected the Qiluo Tulip to escalate to 80 million gold soul coins.
However, most understood the reason for this price.
After all, this was the Qiluo Tulip. Not only was it an immortal herb, but it also represented a chance to change one's fate.
It could significantly improve a soul master's talent, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary, especially since it could evolve the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile into the Nine Treasure Glazed Tile, raising the soul master's limits.
From this perspective, its value far exceeded that of a 100,000-year-old soul bone.
The reason most had given up on bidding was twofold. First, the price was simply too high and exceeded their budgets.
Second, while it was proven that the Qiluo Tulip had evolved the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Martial Soul ten thousand years ago, there was no conclusive evidence it would have the same effect on other martial souls.
If they bought it and couldn't evolve their martial souls, but only improved their soul power and mental strength, it would undoubtedly be a massive loss.
It could even affect the development of their entire family or faction.
Jiang Li cleared his throat and flashed another mysterious smile, "Alright, next, I am ready to unveil the true nature of the third item."
His words acted like a magnet, instantly drawing everyone's attention.
The atmosphere, which had relaxed after the previous auction, grew tense once again.
Without further delay, Jiang Li waved his hand, and another exquisite tray appeared on the auction table.
As the tray slowly rose, a faint golden light enveloped it, arousing curiosity about the object on the tray.
Soon, another immortal herb appeared on the tray.
It was a massive purple chrysanthemum, with soft, furry petals that gave off a warm and gentle feeling. The entire flower was seamlessly unified, without a single flaw, as if it were made from the purest energy of the world.
The center of the flower stood half an inch above the petals, with the stamen glowing softly with golden light, a gentle and bright glow that seemed to contain endless energy.
"This is..."
As the flower appeared, Jiang Li did not introduce it immediately.
Most of the people below revealed puzzled expressions. They were extremely unfamiliar with this third auction item.
However, in the camps of Shrek Academy and the Dai family from the Star Luo Empire, everyone wore faces of shock and disbelief.
"It's the immortal herb: the Wonder Mushroom Chrysanthemum!"
Dai Yaoheng, who was sitting in the Dai family's section, couldn't help but stand up. His eyes widened, and he stared intently at the Wonder Mushroom Chrysanthemum.
When he had seen the Qiluo Tulip go up for auction earlier, he had secretly hoped that the Star Dou Auction House would present the Wonder Mushroom Chrysanthemum.
But he never expected that what seemed like an unrealistic hope would actually come true.
It was well-known that the Dai family's ancestor, Dai Mubai, had consumed the Wonder Mushroom Chrysanthemum, leading to the mutation of his martial soul, and ultimately he became a god, starting the Dai family's glorious history.
For the Dai family, this immortal herb was not only a rare auction item but also a symbol of family honor and legacy.
Dai Hao, standing next to him, was also shocked as he looked at the Wonder Mushroom Chrysanthemum.
He stood slightly aside, his tightly clenched fists trembling with excitement, showing his inner exhilaration.
At this moment, an idea formed in his mind. No matter the cost, he must win the Wonder Mushroom Chrysanthemum.
He knew that this herb would greatly benefit their family's inherited martial soul.
If he could give this herb to his son, Dai Yaoheng, there was a chance the Dai family might produce an Extreme Douluo in the future.
This would be a massive improvement for the Dai family's position and influence on Douluo Continent.
"Father!"
Dai Yaoheng's gaze turned to Dai Hao, his eyes filled with urgency.
His voice trembled slightly, full of expectation and longing. He knew the importance of this herb to him, and he couldn't afford to miss out.
"Don't worry, no matter the cost, I will make sure you get this Wonder Mushroom Chrysanthemum," Dai Hao patted his son's shoulder, his gaze full of resolute determination.
"Don't worry, at the right moment, we will provide our royal support to help your family win the Wonder Mushroom Chrysanthemum."
Xu Jiawei, sitting nearby, was also pleasantly surprised by the appearance of the Wonder Mushroom Chrysanthemum.
Having experienced the bidding for the Qiluo Tulip, he was shocked, but quickly regained his composure.
He knew how important the Dai family was to the Star Luo Empire. Their strength meant the prosperity and stability of the empire.
Thus, he immediately assured Dai Hao that he would offer assistance.
He was very willing to see the Dai family produce another top powerhouse to help protect the peace and stability of the Star Luo Empire.
(END CHAPTER)
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