Auction Begins

Present day...

After their meeting with Zhuan Kun, Yang Jin's apprenticeship with the Golden Dragon Commerce had begun in earnest after a few months of trial.

He became their youngest apprentice at the time. His days were filled with rigorous training and practical experience in the world of trade and commerce.

Over the years, he had proven himself to be a dedicated and talented young merchant, quickly rising through the ranks of the guild.

His sharp wit, keen business decisions, and unwavering integrity had earned him the respect of his peers and superiors.

Yang Jin had become a rising star within the Golden Dragon Commerce, known for his ability to secure profitable deals and navigate the complex web of international trade.

However, his journey had not been without its challenges. Yang Li, his father and the current patriarch of the Yang Clan, had initially been furious at his son's decision to defy family traditions.

The clash of their ideals had resulted in heated arguments and strained relations within the Yang Clan. Zhou Yuan knew this because Yang Jin told him told so. He still remembers how Yang Jin would suddenly show up with bruises on his body in front of him, while complaining.

Yet, as time passed, Yang Li had come to terms with his son's decision.

He grudgingly accepted Yang Jin's ambition to pursue a life as a merchant, but not without a condition.

Yang Jin was to continue his martial training, ensuring he could protect himself and the family's interests when necessary.

Despite the compromise, Yang Jin had embraced his dual roles with a determined spirit, dedicating himself to both the art of commerce and the discipline of martial training.

As Zhou Yuan sighed, his thoughts drifted to his own journey. While Yang Jin had thrived as a merchant, Zhou Yuan's path had taken a different turn.

After being poisoned and losing his sight, he had become a recluse, retreating from the outside world to focus on honing his unique abilities and researching for a cure to his condition.

***

As they made their way inside the Golden Dragon Commerce Auction House, Yang Jin and Zhou Yuan moved smoothly through the bustling crowd. Zhou Yuan's blindness didn't hinder him as much as one might expect, thanks to his honed senses as a cultivator. He relied on his hearing and the subtle vibrations in the air to navigate the surroundings. He didn't plan on using his Spirit Sight unless necessary.

Just as they were about to find their room, they suddenly encountered an unexpected figure. A young man, impeccably dressed and exuding an air of confidence, stood before them.

As Zhou Yuan and Yang Jin settled into their private room, Zhou Yuan couldn't help but sense the subtle tension between Yang Jin and that young man. As if there was an unspoken rivalry in the air, and it intrigued him.

Curiosity getting the better of him, Zhou Yuan leaned towards Yang Jin and asked in a low voice, "Do you know that person personally?"

Yang Jin's expression tightened slightly, his gaze fixed on Li Xun. "Yes, we've crossed paths before. He's... a love rival."

Zhou Yuan's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "A love rival? You never mentioned this before."

Yang Jin let out a soft sigh. "It's a complicated story. Li Xun and I have known each other since our days in the Golden Dragon Commerce. We both had feelings for the same person, and it created a bit of a rivalry between us."

The auction began with an air of anticipation that seemed to electrify the entire room. The attendees, a mix of well-dressed merchants, nobles, and cultivators, settled into their seats, their eyes fixed on the center stage where the auction would take place.

Dimmed lanterns cast a soft, ambient glow, creating an atmosphere of mystery and intrigue.

At the heart of the stage stood the host, a distinguished man in elegant, flowing robes that exuded an aura of authority and sophistication.

His attire was a rich shade of deep crimson, embroidered with intricate golden patterns that shimmered in the low light. The robes billowed gracefully around him as he moved, adding a touch of theatrical flair to his presence.

The host's face was adorned with a neatly groomed beard, and his salt-and-pepper hair was pulled back into a refined bun.

His eyes, sharp and perceptive, scanned the audience, taking in the eager faces and assessing the potential buyers.

With a commanding voice that resonated throughout the hall, he addressed the crowd, "Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests and collectors, welcome to the Golden Dragon Commerce Auction House. Tonight promises to be a remarkable evening of exquisite treasures and rare finds. I am your host for the evening, Master Fang Han."

As Master Fang Han spoke, his gestures were deliberate and graceful, his every movement seem to command attention and build anticipation.