Under the gaze of the assembled company. Mao Lieguang clapped his hands once more, and the men who had just departed returned with expressions of deep deference.

Then, Mao Lieguang approached the round table. With a mere wave of his hand, several attendants stepped forward and cleared away the golden platters that had failed to attract any bids.

The sheer caution in their movements betrayed a rigorous training regimen; they were clearly the designated handlers for such precious articles.

He Yiming’s gaze shifted, a flicker of regret crossing his mind. Many of the items displayed here were genuinely rare, their intrinsic value far surpassing that of the refined steel lodestone gifted by Ting Shiguang. If circumstances allowed, he would have loved to sweep every single item off the table.

Even the pieces that drew no initial interest held considerable worth; it was simply that no one present currently had a practical need for them.

Moments later, several golden platters were removed, yet the table remained laden with goods.

Mao Lieguang paused before one specific golden platter, his eyes darting back and forth between the object resting within the platter and the item placed beside it.

He Yiming felt a pang of shame; he recognized neither of the two objects in question.

The truth was, most attendees present were well over a century old. Even the two who had recently entered the Innate Realm were likely already in their eighties or nineties. These were individuals seasoned by extensive travel across the realms, possessing encyclopedic knowledge, especially when it came to identifying rare artifacts—a domain where they vastly outstripped He Yiming. Thus, they all perceived why Mao Lieguang hesitated.

The item in the golden platter and the one beside it were of nearly equal value, and neither was exceptionally unique. Perhaps both were ultimately dispensable to the Kai Rong Kingdom, which explained his momentary indecision.

However, his contemplation lasted only a few breaths before he reached a resolution.

He extended his hand and claimed the item resting outside the golden platter.

The moment he made this move, He Yiming distinctly heard a long, drawn-out sigh among the masters from the Tu Fan Kingdom.

Though no one turned their head, everyone knew who desperately desired that specific object, and how crucial this exchange was to that individual.

Mao Lieguang advanced another step, stopping before a second golden platter. He glanced at the item beside it and knitted his brows slightly, clearly dissatisfied.

He pointed to the golden platter before him, shook his head, and immediately, someone stepped forward to take the platter away. The item that had been placed beside it remained untouched on the table.

He Yiming recognized the item as one presented by Zhao Zhanyang of the Minor States Alliance. Since Zhao Zhanyang sat behind him, He Yiming refrained from turning, but his ears twitched slightly, catching a sigh filled with profound regret emanating from Zhao Zhanyang’s direction.

Whatever the item Zhao Zhanyang offered, its value aside, one thing was certain: it failed to stir Mao Lieguang’s interest.

Mao Lieguang’s movements were not slow; in fact, upon reviewing the trade offerings from everyone, he had already formulated his strategy. If he wished, he could complete all transactions within moments. Yet, a gathering like this demanded careful consideration of more than just material worth; the identity of the offering party mattered greatly.

Despite his imposing demeanor, where everything seemed under his absolute control, Mao Lieguang trod with extreme delicacy, as if walking on thin ice.

Finally, he arrived before the golden platter containing the Huang Jing, presented by Huang Jing himself.

He frowned, silent for a long stretch. Finally, he let out a deep sigh and asked, “Brother He, are you set on acquiring this Huang Jing?”

He Yiming was slightly taken aback. According to the rules explained by Shui Xuanjin, no one should initiate conversation during the first round of exchanges.

But since Mao Lieguang addressed him directly, ignoring it was impossible.

“Indeed, I hope Brother Mao will grant my wish.”

Mao Lieguang laughed heartily, “Since Brother He desires it so fiercely, consider this Huang Jing a small welcoming gift from our Kingdom to you.”

He Yiming was utterly perplexed. No matter how shrewd he was, he could not have anticipated this turn of events.

He looked around at the others. Everyone wore an expression of prior understanding, as if this outcome were entirely natural. This only deepened his confusion.

Shui Xuanjin cleared his throat and gave He Yiming a slight nod.

Though still bewildered, He Yiming vaguely grasped that this must be some unspoken custom circulating among the esteemed masters.

Nodding slightly, He Yiming replied, “In that case, I thank Brother Mao.”

Mao Lieguang smiled, picking up the wooden box He Yiming had placed on the table and setting it upon the golden platter.

Then, he moved on.

Before long, all the initial offerings had been processed. This first round of exchanges brought mixed fortunes: success brought elation, while failure resulted in palpable disappointment.

At Mao Lieguang’s signal, the attendants carefully collected the items and presented the objects from the table one by one to the respective Innate Masters, before silently withdrawing.

Mao Lieguang bowed slightly to the assembly. “The first round is concluded. Esteemed guests, please take a short break for tea. For the second round, I request Brother Mu to preside.”

Mu Jintian let out an amused chuckle. “Brother Mao, the offerings you brought for the first round were already of such high caliber. I fear what we have prepared might struggle to capture the interest of everyone here.”

After a few polite exchanges, Mao Lieguang and his contingent departed the room.

He Yiming rose, exchanged a meaningful glance with Shui Xuanjin, and strode out. Shui Xuanjin, understanding immediately, followed closely behind.

Within a few steps, they reached the shaded grove.

He Yiming cut straight to the chase. “Brother Shui, why was Mao Lieguang so generous?”

Shui Xuanjin gave a wry smile. “It wasn't generosity, Brother He; he was attempting to curry favor with you.” He let out a long breath. “This first round was merely an opener; nothing truly precious was displayed. For experts at the First Heaven level, these items are generally beneath notice.”

He Yiming immediately recalled Zhuo Wanlian’s reaction and inwardly shuddered. If this wasn't worth noticing, the First Heaven powerhouses were truly remarkable. Despite being one himself, his own accumulated wealth probably couldn't match that of a mere Hundred Loose Heaven expert.

Shui Xuanjin continued, “The value of the Lingmu Fruit you offered far outweighed that of the Huang Jing. Had you been merely a Hundred Loose Heaven expert, he would have accepted it quietly. But a First Heaven expert…” He chuckled twice. “For those at the First Heaven level, an exchange meeting like this is actually quite equitable.”

He Yiming looked into Shui Xuanjin’s nuanced gaze and finally understood the underlying principle.

So, this so-called 'fair exchange meeting' contained its own unfairness.

However, since this particular unfairness benefited him, he certainly wouldn't object.

After the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, everyone gradually returned to the chamber. This time, Mu Jintian rose and proactively nodded toward the assembly. The masters behind him also stood, placing the items they had brought onto the table.

He Yiming’s gaze swept over them, and to his disappointment, he recognized few of the items. One thing was certain, though: in this second round, the offerings consisted mostly of medicinal herbs, rare ores, and similar materials, with very few true artifacts.

And even the rare artifacts that did appear bore visible cracks or flaws. For innate masters such as these, such items were merely 'better than nothing,' so the assembled company merely glanced over them without lingering.

The rules for this round were the same as before. The difference was that Mu Jintian’s retinue did not step forward. Instead, the masters from the Kai Rong Kingdom’s Grand Hall and the Minor States Alliance carefully selected items; several even had eyes gleaming with desire, clearly spotting something that appealed to them.

He Yiming refrained from participating this time, as nothing on the table met his needs. In truth, he couldn't even name most of the objects, making him even less inclined to step forward and risk looking foolish.

The second round concluded quickly. After another short break, the third round commenced. This time, it was the turn of Shui Xuanjin and his group to present their carried goods for open selection.

The masters of the Minor States Alliance had already conducted a secret consultation amongst themselves, ensuring that the items they displayed were not what their allies needed. However, for the other two factions, some of these objects might well be treasures they longed to acquire.

Finally, the third round ended. Two-thirds of the items brought by the Minor States Alliance were successfully exchanged. The recipients, however, were mostly the group led by Mu Jintian. The richness of their contributions clearly exceeded general expectations. Nearly every item they possessed had two or more competing offers, naturally increasing the likelihood of a successful exchange.

Furthermore, He Yiming noticed one specific item brought forth by a master from the Tu Fan Kingdom: a Three-Colored Stone. Once this stone appeared, whether it was a master from the Kai Rong Kingdom or the Minor States Alliance, they all opted for a successful exchange with it.

This indicated that the Three-Colored Stone was likely a specialty of the Tu Fan Kingdom, something rarely seen within the sphere of influence of the Kai Rong Kingdom.

After the three rounds, Mao Lieguang reappeared, smiling. “Esteemed guests, since the collective exchanges are complete, we now move to private negotiations. However, I must reiterate one point according to custom: the Kai Rong Kingdom’s Grand Hall assumes no responsibility for transactions conducted privately.” As he said this, he glanced pointedly toward He Yiming, seemingly directing the statement specifically at him.

He Yiming inwardly flushed with shame but kept his expression perfectly neutral. After several years of roaming the world, his skin had grown significantly thicker.

Once Mao Lieguang finished speaking, people began to step forward, placing the items they wished to trade onto the round table. Some even produced pre-prepared wooden plaques inscribed with text detailing their desired exchange.

Soon, mutual trading commenced. Those who succeeded smiled broadly, while those who failed offered only a shrug and a gesture of resignation, without resorting to sharp words.

He Yiming scanned the items displayed, his resolve hardening. Upon returning, he absolutely had to immerse himself in studying this field—to memorize as many rare world artifacts as possible. Otherwise, at the next similar gathering, he would again be blind, letting truly exceptional treasures slip through his fingers.

Yet, committing the world’s entire inventory of rare artifacts to memory was a monumental task, one that even a First Heaven expert like himself could not accomplish overnight.

Suddenly, He Yiming sensed an intense gaze fixed upon him.

His spirit sharpened, and he looked up, meeting Mu Jintian’s eyes.

There was no trace of hostility in that shared look; instead, it carried a distinct flavor of friendliness.

Yet, upon meeting Mu Jintian’s gaze, a chilling sensation swept over He Yiming. He had killed a prince and a master from the Tu Fan Kingdom, and yet Mu Jintian seemed utterly unperturbed—a chilling indifference.

Mu Jintian approached him and murmured quietly, “Brother He, I have a private matter I wish to discuss with you. Would you perhaps step aside for a brief talk?”

He Yiming pondered for a moment, then smiled. “Certainly.”

They left the room side by side. Although everyone observed their departure, they paid it no mind.

The two men reached the shady grove once more. Mu Jintian stated gravely, “Brother He, the misunderstanding between us this time was entirely instigated by Bu Xingcong. His audacity in attempting to harm your esteemed wife is an unforgivable crime.”

He Yiming managed a strained, humorless smile. “Brother Mu, since Bu Xingcong has been executed, let us consider the matter closed. There is no need to mention it again.”

In truth, a deep resentment still festered within He Yiming toward the Tu Fan Kingdom that had fostered Bu Xingcong. But the reality was that no matter how much more arrogant he became, he could not conceive of challenging the entire Tu Fan Kingdom alone. Having struck down Bu Xingcong, whether willing or not, he could afford no further provocation.

Mu Jintian bowed deeply to him. “Brother He shows great magnanimity. I thank you.”

He Yiming took a step back and returned a shallow bow. “Brother Mu, you asked me out here—it wasn't for this trifle, was it?”

Mu Jintian laughed heartily. “Brother He is direct; I shall be as well.” His smile vanished. “Brother He, I have a direct paternal grandson. He practices the cultivation method of the Three Cycles Symbiosis.”

Here, he paused, his eyes fixed intently on He Yiming.

He Yiming was deeply puzzled. What possible meaning could this abrupt, disconnected statement hold?

Sensing He Yiming’s confusion, Mu Jintian offered a wry smile as a reminder: “My grandson is sixty-eight this year and has not yet reached the Innate Realm, but he has cultivated all three cycles of his technique to the tenth-level peak.”

As he finished, a flicker of pride crossed his face, suggesting deep satisfaction with this achievement.

He Yiming suddenly understood everything and blurted out, “You wish for me to protect and reinforce his meridians during a breakthrough?”

Mu Jintian nodded solemnly. He produced two square boxes, each about the size of a fist, and handed them over. “If Brother He agrees to lend him this assistance, these two items shall serve as your reward. Furthermore, if Brother He has any other requests, please voice them. I will do my utmost to satisfy them.”

He Yiming thoughtfully opened the two boxes. Inside one lay a crystalline rod, barely the length of a middle finger. The moment the box opened, an intensely concentrated wave of Ice elemental power surged out, causing the immediate vicinity to feel several degrees colder.

The other box contained a stone displaying four distinct colors.

As He Yiming’s gaze fell upon this stone, he instantly recognized it as being of the same category as the highly coveted Three-Colored Stone from earlier—except this one possessed an additional color. Recalling how instantly the assembled Innate Masters had rushed to trade for the Three-Colored Stone, he knew this object must be exceptionally rare. The white rod emanating cold must also be extraordinary to be presented alongside it. His only regret was that he did not recognize what these two items actually were.

Mu Jintian wore an expression of composed confidence. Presenting these two items was a significant investment. Innate masters who could cultivate three corresponding elemental cycles simultaneously within the Five Elements Foundation were already exceedingly rare, and even among them, the elemental alignment rarely matched his grandson’s. Otherwise, he would never have cast aside past grievances and offered such precious items to humbly request He Yiming’s aid.

Though Bu Xingcong shared a distant blood tie, and the deceased Innate Master was an acquaintance, these two individuals were dead. How could their fate compare to the future of his direct grandson?

Cultivating the Three Cycles Symbiosis might offer no immediate advantage, but Mu Jintian understood the immense power this talent would unlock once his grandson reached the peak of the Hundred Loose Heaven realm and broke through to the First Heaven.

Of course, for all his grandson’s exceptional talent, he paled in comparison to the man before him.

However, as Mu Jintian concluded his internal appraisal, he noticed He Yiming’s expression was not one of delight, but rather a slight furrowing of the brow.

He was startled. Could it be that even these two treasures failed to move He Yiming?

Yet, no matter how he guessed, Mu Jintian could never fathom that He Yiming, a First Heaven expert, wasn't unmoved—he simply didn't know the true value of the two artifacts. His hesitation stemmed from meticulously examining the items and trying to deduce their function.

If Mu Jintian had known the real reason, he might have been so frustrated he vomited blood on the spot…

Ps: Starting tomorrow, if nothing unexpected occurs, there will be a continuous release until the end of the month. If we rank in the top three this month, starting next week until the 9th, apart from Saturdays and Sundays, White Crane will also release 15,000 words daily. Therefore, to all readers still holding monthly tickets, please cast them toward White Crane. Thank you…

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