Ch. 821Underground Auction, Spirit Flame
Chapter Summary: “Underground Auction, Spirit Flame”
Key Plot Points and Events
- Han Changming learns from Lin Qing that Xuan Guang True Lord’s cave abode had contained two spirit flames and several treasures before being divided among three powerful forces.
- He becomes especially interested in the Vermilion Bird Heaven-Refining Furnace, a spirit-treasure-grade pill furnace refined by the legendary Hundred Refinements Divine Lord. Han Changming reflects on the mysterious origins of the Vermilion Bird Furnace and Pendant he already possesses.
- Han purchases a large quantity of spirit herbs from Thousand Herbs Tower after carefully inspecting them.
- He contacts Han Debiao and informs him that he has obtained fifth-rank spirit wine. However, they still need a high-grade Transformation Pill, and Han Changming warns that spirit wine alone may not persuade a Spirit Transformation cultivator to help them deal with a fifth-rank demon beast.
- Han Changming attends an underground auction held beneath Golden Sea Tower. After paying the entrance fee, he receives a Spirit-Transforming Pearl that conceals his identity and prevents others from using secret techniques to investigate him.
- The auction attracts several hundred Nascent Soul Cultivators, far surpassing the scale of auctions in the Outer Sea.
- Notable attendees include the mysterious Purple Gourd Daoist and an intimidating black-robed elder radiating powerful killing intent.
- The auction begins with high-grade magic treasures, including the Azure Gang Blades and Azure Flood Dragon Boat, followed by formations, pills, and talismans. The items sell for high prices.
- The auction finally reaches its main attractions: two wisps of spirit flame, immediately exciting the entire crowd and drawing Han Changming’s intense attention.
Character Developments
- Han Changming continues to show cautious judgment and broadening knowledge. He recognizes the value of spirit-treasure-grade artifacts and understands that obtaining the Vermilion Bird Heaven-Refining Furnace would greatly benefit an alchemist.
- His interest in the Vermilion Bird artifacts deepens, suggesting that he suspects hidden secrets connected to the Vermilion Bird True Person.
- Han also demonstrates responsibility toward his family by helping Han Debiao prepare for the Transformation Pill and possible assistance against the fifth-rank demon beast.
- Han Debiao remains grateful for Han Changming’s efforts but accepts that securing outside help may be difficult.
- Lin Qing acts as a reliable source of information and business assistance, explaining the history of the Hundred Refinements Divine Lord and his renowned treasures.
- Purple Gourd Daoist appears relaxed and carefree, drinking wine openly despite the secrecy of the auction.
- The black-robed elder is introduced as a dangerous and mysterious figure whose killing intent makes him stand out from the other concealed cultivators.
Significant Themes
- Rarity and competition: The auction’s enormous attendance and high prices emphasize the scarcity and value of powerful cultivation resources.
- Hidden identities and danger: The use of Spirit-Transforming Pearls reflects the secrecy, mistrust, and potential threats surrounding high-level cultivator dealings.
- Family responsibility: Han Changming continues to assist Han Debiao despite recognizing that their plan may have little chance of success.
- Mystery and legacy: The Vermilion Bird artifacts and the Hundred Refinements Divine Lord’s treasures hint at deeper historical secrets and unfinished inheritances.
- Power and limitation: Although Han Changming possesses considerable wealth and ability, he understands that spirit wine and material rewards may not be enough to influence a Spirit Transformation cultivator.
Character Interactions
- Han Changming and Lin Qing discuss the divided treasures from Xuan Guang True Lord’s cave abode, particularly the Vermilion Bird Heaven-Refining Furnace.
- Han Changming purchases spirit herbs through Lin Qing’s arrangements.
- He communicates with Han Debiao about the fifth-rank spirit wine and the need for a high-grade Transformation Pill, tempering his uncle’s expectations.
- At the auction, Han observes but does not interact directly with the Purple Gourd Daoist or the black-robed elder.
- The auctioneer, Yang Feng, guides the bidding and builds anticipation by presenting increasingly valuable items, culminating in the reveal of the two spirit flames.