Tianlan Immortal City was merely a name of a city on the surface. However, to cultivators who lived and trained within its bounds, it was an expansive region that encompassed not only the city itself, but also the surrounding mountain ranges, spirit veins, and waterways. Of particular note were the region's two major bodies of water, one river and one great waterway. The river, known as Yunjin, was modest in scale and couldn't compare to the mighty Lancang River near Dahe Market. Its waters stemmed from the torrents that flowed beneath Tianlan Peak. The great waterway, however, was an entirely different matter. Known as the Qinhua River, it was born from the convergence of countless tributaries throughout the Jade Cauldron Domain. Its waters flowed steadily eastward, stretching all the way to the eastern sea. With its breadth and depth, the Qinhua River was brimming with resources. It was said that the Li family had prospered for more than two centuries simply by controlling a narrow stretch of its banks. Yet time did not spare any family. As the Li family's Foundation Establishment grand elder approached the end of his lifespan, uncertainty began to loom. The future of the family wavered in the shadow of succession and instability. Just as unease was beginning to settle in, a major event brought renewed hope. The Li family was about to form a marriage alliance with one of Tianlan Immortal City's most rapidly rising factions—the Luo Tian Society. That very day, the leader of Luo Tian Society had come in person with a formal betrothal gift, proposing a union with Li Yingjun, the direct granddaughter of the Li family's Foundation Establishment grand elder. The engagement proceeded smoothly, but what puzzled many was the identity of the groom-to-be. Li Yingjun, esteemed descendant of a prestigious family, was set to marry a relatively unknown figure in Luo Tian Society. It wasn't entirely accurate to call him unknown, but the match still raised eyebrows, after all, her betrothed was merely an elder in the spirit plant division of the Medicine Hall. Luo Chen, however, paid no mind to the murmurs of lesser cultivators. He understood Grand Elder Li Jinhuang's reasoning all too well. Sima Xian, despite his prestige, had already reached a bottleneck in cultivation. With little hope of further breakthrough, such a man might eventually grow restless, turning his ambitions toward the Li family's estate. By contrast, Yuan Dongsheng wasn't well-known, nor was his cultivation high. But he was exactly the kind of person who, though not powerful but held real influence. Among the hundreds of first-tier spirit fields managed by the Luo Tian Society, a great portion had long been entrusted to him. That alone spoke volumes. He was someone Luo Tian Society clearly relied on. Given the scale of responsibility on his shoulders, he would hardly have the time or energy to cast greedy eyes on the Li family's holdings. In Luo Chen's eyes, the old grand elder had made a clever and calculated move. Crafty old fox, Luo Chen mused silently. Across the table, Li Jinhuang wore a serene smile. "President Luo, would you care to try our Li family's spirit medicine tea?" Luo Chen nodded and lifted the porcelain teacup, sipping slowly. The liquid was warm and fragrant, flowing smoothly down his throat. He set the cup down gently and spoke with a measured tone. "Fresh and rich, with a sweet aftertaste. The medicinal aroma is subtle, but the spirit energy bursts like sunlight across the dantian and sea of qi. The art of infusing medicine into tea is truly remarkable." Li Jinhuang's eyes, once clouded with age, lit up at the compliment. "You are a man of tea, Fellow Daoist!" Luo Chen responded with a modest smile and a few humble words. In truth, he was more familiar with spirit wine than spirit tea. That elegant description? He'd memorized it from intelligence gathered on the Li family's preferences and customs. Outside, the engagement celebration was in full swing. Laughter echoed through the courtyards, the clink of toasts and cheerful music forming a lively backdrop. But inside the quiet chamber, between two Foundation Establishment cultivators, the atmosphere was measured, the words formal and restrained. Luo Chen, however, had not come all this way merely to oversee a wedding. If that had been his only intention, he would've simply left the formalities to Sima Huiniang. Luo Chen placed his cup down and said calmly, "Let's speak frankly." Li Jinhuang's demeanor grew solemn as well. "As for the Tianlan Immortal City auction, I've never participated and know little of its taboos or hidden rules. I'd ask Fellow Daoist Li to enlighten me." This was Luo Chen's true reason for coming. Li Jinhuang had operated in Tianlan Immortal City for over two centuries, and his experience was vast. Now that his lifespan was nearly spent and his family would rely on Luo Chen's protection, he had no reason to keep secrets. Compared to people like Shi Boying or Xuan Yunzi, Luo Chen trusted someone like Li Jinhuang whose interests were tied directly to his own. Sure enough, Li Jinhuang soon began explaining details Luo Chen hadn't been aware of. "Unless it's hosted solely by the Jade Cauldron Sword Sect, the Immortal City Auction is usually co-hosted by two major sects. Events of this scale inevitably attract Golden Core cultivators." He leaned in slightly, his tone more serious. "There's one strict taboo. If a Golden Core cultivator takes interest in an item, no matter how wealthy we Foundation Establishment cultivators are, it's best not to get involved. The consequences could be fatal." Luo Chen frowned. "Has that ever actually happened?" "Yes," Li Jinhuang nodded. He recounted an incident from decades ago, when a powerful faction tried to outbid a Golden Core cultivator using its immense wealth. They succeeded only for their entire faction to be obliterated in a single attack of fury. Tianlan Immortal City didn't offer any explanation and made no move to punish the Golden Core cultivator responsible. "For us at the Foundation Establishment cultivators," Li Jinhuang continued, "the most coveted items are always those related to forming the Golden Core. But unless you're already in the late stage of Foundation Establishment, my advice is to stay out of those particular contests." Luo Chen's frown deepened. " Then, does treasure plundering happen too?" "That's hard to avoid," Li Jinhuang admitted. "But the real danger comes from the top, the Golden Core sects. There used to be six of them, but now only five remain. Without their support, the path to Core Formation is nearly impossible." He paused, tapping his fingers lightly against the table. "I don't know all the internal workings, but you're young and already quite advanced. You'll learn those truths in time." Taking a slow breath, Luo Chen asked, "Then who are the Core Formation treasures at the auction really meant for?" "For Golden Core Adepts, late stage Foundation Establishment cultivators, and those closely allied with major sects," Li Jinhuang said. "You've got a decent relationship with Ice Fortress, don't you? That should give you some access." Luo Chen nodded vaguely. Luo Chen offered a faint nod. It wasn't entirely true. His ties weren't with Ice Fortress as a whole, it was only with Tantai Jin personally. And if Core Formation treasures came into play, even she might be tempted to compete against him. Shifting topics, Li Jinhuang gave him a knowing smile. "And as for Foundation Establishment resources... I'm guessing you're very interested in acquiring a spot?" That was exactly what Luo Chen had come for. Back at the Dahe Market auction, he had seen firsthand how Foundation Establishment pills were distributed, one for the rogue cultivators, and the rest divided among the four dominant Foundation Establishment powers. Clearly, behind the scenes, those powers had coordinated in advance. Different cities might vary in details, but the rules were usually the same. Tianlan Immortal City was no exception. Luo Chen had already asked Chu Kui about it and confirmed that spots for Foundation Establishment pills were only granted to forces that had been rooted in the city for over fifty years. New factions like Luo Tian Society weren't even considered. If they wanted a pill, they'd have to fight it out with rogue cultivators and pay an exorbitant price for the privilege. And they might even offend the major Golden Core sects in the process. "Seems Fellow Daoist Li has seen through my thoughts," Luo Chen admitted openly. Li Jinhuang sighed. "In that case, I'll give the Li family's quota to you this time. The fixed price per Foundation Establishment pill is five thousand spirit stones." "That high?" Luo Chen raised his brows in surprise. Back in Dahe Market, the going rate for Foundation Establishment pills among private Foundation Establishment cultivators had only been around two thousand spirit stones per pill. "Foundation Establishment pills are always precious, and most come from Nascent Soul sects. This time, it's the Luoyun Sect and the Medicine King Sect who're offering them," Li Jinhuang explained seriously. "And we must give face to the Luoyun Sect." That said it all. Luoyun was a newly elevated Nascent Soul sect, and with their ally Green Pill Valley co-hosting the auction, their contribution to Foundation Establishment pills was clearly a gesture of support. Luo Chen didn't dwell on the political layers behind it. When the time came, he would simply go with the flow. "In addition," Li Jinhuang added, "before the auction begins, the city will open a special trade market. It's a rare chance for Foundation Establishment powers like ours to conduct business freely. Fellow Daoist Luo, you can't afford to miss it." Luo Chen gave a nod. He already knew this part. Back in the Dahe Market, the Jade Cauldron Sword Sect had done the same. It was a standard practice by now. The two continued talking for a good while longer, casually sharing insights into cultivation and the Foundation Establishment Realm. Only when Luo Chen noticed signs of fatigue on Li Jinhuang's face did he take his leave. After he left, Li Jinhuang still looked weary, but forced himself to stay alert. A young woman entered the room. "Grandfather," she greeted softly. "Have you met your fiancé?" Li Jinhuang asked. Li Yingjun bit her lower lip and gave a faint nod. "I have. He seems like a decent man." "Is his relationship with the Luo Tian Society leader as good as they say?" Li Jinhuang asked. Li Yingjun hesitated, then replied, "I'd say so. They knew each other early on, and after Senior Luo Chen rose to power, the Yuan family contributed greatly to his cause. When Granny Yuan passed, he saw her off and ordered a grand burial through the Luo Tian Society." That put the old man at ease. Before today, he might have had a few alternative plans in mind. But after meeting Luo Chen in person, those thoughts had vanished entirely. This young man, though not of many years, acted with calm precision and maturity far beyond his age. Once she was married, no cultivator of the Li family would dare stir trouble right under Luo Tian Society's nose. Since that was the case, it would be far better to have his granddaughter deeply tied into Luo Tian Society, forming a familial bond that would allow the Li family to be protected from the side. Seeing her grandfather still handling these matters at his advanced age, Li Yingjun's face revealed a trace of guilt and self-reproach. "It's all because we juniors are useless that you have to work so hard, Grandfather." Li Jinhuang merely shook his head. "This can't be blamed on you. In fact, even if one of you broke through to Foundation Establishment today, I'd still seek an alliance with the Luo Tian Society." Li Yingjun froze. "Why?" Li Jinhuang let out a long sigh. "Your vision is too narrow, too short-sighted. The tide across the Jade Cauldron Domain is shifting. A small family like our Li family of Qinhua can't rely on just one or two Foundation Establishment cultivators to survive in a storm this vast." Li Yingjun asked in surprise, "Are you referring to the conflict between the Nascent Soul sects?" "But hasn't it calmed down quite a bit these past two years?" "Calmed down?" Li Jinhuang gave a short, mocking laugh. "Even if it stays calm for a few more years or decades, what does that change? The core problem was never resolved." Naively, Li Yingjun offered, "Could it be the grudges built up during the initial skirmishes, where both sides lost disciples?" "No, that's nothing. Every sect has shed the blood of another's disciples at some point," he said dismissively. Then, his voice turned serious. "The real issue is that the Jade Cauldron Domain isn't big enough to contain two Nascent Soul sects." The young woman's lips parted slightly, her expression tinged with shock. "So you're saying the fighting will resume?" "Yes!" Li Jinhuang said with cold certainty. "Not only will it continue, but it may be even more brutal than before. It's very likely every sect in the Jade Cauldron Domain, large and small, will be dragged into it." That was the reason he had to find a powerful ally for the Li family. As for why he chose the newly rising power, Luo Tian Society? Because he had weighed it carefully. Whether it was their quick establishment of dominance, their ability to swiftly align with a Golden Core sect, or their calculated, nearly silent takeover of the low-tier pill market, everything about Luo Tian Society indicated one thing: they had capable people in their ranks. Such talent might be restrained during peaceful times by rules and norms. But if chaos truly arrived, they would thrive in the disorder and rise all the faster. Even after only a brief interaction, Li Jinhuang had already concluded that the true talent behind Luo Tian Society was none other than Luo Chen. This wasn't based on intelligence reports. It was just instinct. "Yingjun," he said slowly, "I've left your elder brother some Foundation Establishment resources. If he succeeds in breaking through, make sure he joins the Luo Tian Society." Still reeling from the earlier conversation, Li Yingjun blinked in disbelief. "Grandfather, how can we do that? What about our Li family..." "Listen!" Li Jinhuang said sternly. "Your brother is deeply immersed in cultivation. I'll speak to him while I still can. But if I pass on, it will be up to you to remind him. "Luo Chen is not someone who tolerates disloyalty." At the very center of Tianlan Immortal City, seven great beast carriages rerouted and stopped around the main plaza. Each day, they brought in wave after wave of cultivators. All around the square, countless temporary vendor stalls had been set up, each spot registered and paid for by various factions. Even many rogue cultivators had laid out mats and begun hawking their wares. This lively and familiar scene would last for a full nine days! After that, the Grand Immortal City Auction would begin, running for three days. Of course, the formal auction wasn't something just anyone could join. Regardless of cultivation from Golden Core to Qi-Refining, anyone without an invitation had to pass a wealth check to qualify. Naturally, the entire Luo Tian Society was thrown into a flurry of activity in preparation for this grand occasion. Luo Chen generously rented three vendor stalls directly from Binglan Palace. One for pills, one for enchanted artifacts, and one for snacks. They had nine days. It was an opportunity to make the kind of profits they might normally earn in one or two months. The Battle Hall cultivators transported goods nonstop from Danxia Peak to the plaza. In the Gold Hall, Gu Caiyi temporarily handed off Danxia Hall to a trusted female cultivator and went personally to oversee the Luo Tian Society's presence at the plaza. After a month of relentless alchemy, he finally decided to rest. With his energy flow concealed and his appearance altered, he decided to stroll through the bustling market of the Tianlan Trade Assembly. Come on, I'm a transmigrator and not once have I stumbled across a real hidden treasure, Luo Chen muttered to himself with a grin. He purposefully ignored the Imperial Nectar because it had been Wang Yuan who found it, not him. Luo Chen couldn't very well take credit for someone else's fortune. But this time, he truly intended to indulge himself. To clear his mind. To test his luck. To see if fate would finally toss him a bone in the form of a long-lost treasure gathering dust on some unassuming street mat. Cultivators from every corner of the land are here, bringing all kinds of oddities. Something might just suit me. Just because I can't walk into the main auction hall doesn't mean there aren't treasures out here. With how refined my Spirit Eyes have become, surely it's my turn to strike gold. A soft chuckle escaped him, rolling up his sleeves and flexing his fingers. Luo Chen dove into the sea of makeshift stalls and hawking cultivators, ready to sniff out hidden gems and let fortune finally smile his way.