Because It Was Cheap

"I don't know either. These people suddenly appeared in the streets. I heard from the disciples of Colorful Clouds Valley that they'd only just arrived at Sanxin Market. Maybe they came to attend the auction!" Sheng Dong replied uncertainly.

Shi Yue nodded to himself. If he wasn't mistaken, these people had come with elders from their sects. Even high-ranking cultivators from the Great Tang Five Sects had arrived, so cultivators from other countries would probably be showing up soon too.

He chatted with Sheng Dong for a couple of minutes, then took his leave.

Shi Yue headed down the street toward Treasure Competition Palace. Along the way, he noticed many unfamiliar faces. From their clothes and bearing, they clearly weren't Great Tang cultivators; there was a good chance they were from other countries.

A little over half an hour later, Shi Yue arrived at the entrance to Treasure Competition Palace.

Two guards in matching gold robes stood at the entrance, their expressions solemn.

"Fellow Daoist Li, Elder Li and the others have been waiting for you. Please, come in." One of the guards spotted Shi Yue, stepped forward, and gestured for him to enter.

Shi Yue nodded and walked inside.

Once he entered Treasure Competition Palace, a young maid led him through an archway on the right.

After passing through a long corridor, Shi Yue arrived in a spacious hall. Five open Stone Rooms lined each side. Li Liang and six Core Formation Cultivators were gathered around a white jade table, talking quietly.

As soon as Shi Yue entered, Li Liang and the others stopped talking.

"Haha, Young Friend Li, you've finally arrived. We've all been waiting for you!" Li Liang exclaimed with delight.

"This junior is Li Muxian. Greetings, seniors." Shi Yue cupped his hands, his tone sincere.

"Haha,