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Ascension of The Unholy Immortal-Chapter 326: Most Formidable expert
"Since ancient times, I doubt so many formidable experts have ever gathered."
The experts murmured in agreement, for it was an undeniable truth. If that were the case, then this would be no mere banquet but something far more significant.
"Since every great achievement is preceded by an extraordinary fate, I trust this banquet heralds such a fate." The Pavilion Head raised his wine glass and proclaimed, "To the banquet!"
The experts raised their glasses and echoed, "To the banquet!"
The atmosphere became more convivial as the experts chatted and laughed, but beneath the surface, there was a sense of anticipation and excitement. They knew that this was no ordinary gathering, and that something extraordinary was about to happen.
As the banquet progressed, the Pavilion Head took to the stage and made a speech.
"For centuries, we have been divided," he said. "We have fought against each other, and we have hoarded our knowledge and resources. But tonight, let us put aside our differences and come together for the greater good."
The experts listened intently to the Pavilion Head’s words.
"Let us use this banquet as a catalyst for change," the Pavilion Head continued. "Let us create a new era of cooperation and prosperity."
"What empty rhetoric is this?" Star Wondering scoffed in a hushed tone.
Mi Ling, seated nearby, shared a similar expression of skepticism before her gaze drifted towards the enigmatic black-robed figure beside her.
"It is not empty rhetoric," the black-robed figure chuckled softly. "This man has long harbored an aspiration to unite the fragmented world of cultivation."
Mi Ling’s eyes flickered thoughtfully. "A harmonious world would facilitate smoother business dealings."
"Indeed," the black-robed figure concurred. "While wars may benefit certain commercial guilds, they have a detrimental impact on the Pavilion."
"Oh? How so?" Mi Ling inquired, genuinely perplexed. Wouldn’t conflicts lead to a surge in demand for weapons, talismans, and medicinal pills?
"During times of conflict, the Pavilion suspends its operations and conducts auctions exclusively," the figure revealed, a hint of amusement in his voice.
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Mi Ling couldn’t help but chuckle," what a shrewd businessman."
"Indeed," the black-robed figure continued. "By limiting transactions solely through auctions during conflicts, the Pavilion controls the pricing and allocation of resources."
"Those desperate for supplies are willing to pay exorbitant prices, while those sitting on excess inventory can maximize their profits," Mi Ling mused aloud.
"Precisely," replied the black-robed figure. "The Pavilion serves as both a profiteer and a mediator in chaotic times."
Mi Ling nodded in understanding. "By suspending regular operations, the Pavilion avoids any semblance of favoring one side or another, preserving its reputation as an impartial institution."
"And with the influence it wields during these auctions, the Pavilion is able to steer the flow of supplies and shape the outcome of conflicts," the black-robed figure added.
"Such strategic maneuvering," Mi Ling remarked with a hint of admiration. "The Pavilion’s neutrality allows it to maintain its influence regardless of who emerges victorious."
"Indeed," the black-robed figure replied. "By carefully controlling the supply of resources, the Pavilion can influence the direction of conflicts and ensure its own prosperity."
Mi Ling’s mind raced as she considered the implications of the black-robed figure’s words. "This banquet, then, is not merely a social gathering but an opportunity for the Pavilion to further consolidate its power."
"You are astute," the black-robed figure chuckled. "The Pavilion Head seeks to unite the cultivation world under his banner, not through force but through economic dominance."
"A cunning strategy," Mi Ling mused. "By fostering cooperation and prosperity, the Pavilion can gradually increase its control over the flow of resources and, ultimately, the fate of the cultivation world."
"However, that path is ultimately inconsequential," the black-robed man sneered, his eyes radiating contempt. "It remains a mere theoretical concept, for true power lies in the sovereignty of absolutes."
"Pavilion Head, how come you didn’t invite this seat to such an exceptional gathering?" A majestic voice echoed through the venue, accompanied by an aura that commanded respect.
Not only did the experts attending the auction feel this overwhelming presence, but its reverberations shook the entire Heaven Fortune Domain, alerting every formidable cultivator within its expanse.
Meanwhile, in a secluded chamber, Liang sat cross-legged before a screen projection, observing it with rapt attention. Upon sensing the overwhelming aura, he couldn’t help but be startled.
Moments later, a figure emerged in the sky above the auction. It was a middle-aged man clad in an unassuming gray robe, with flowing long black hair and a matching beard. His eyes were piercing and deep, like flawless black gemstones.
At his waist hung a black broadsword. Despite its ordinary appearance, it emanated an inexplicable sensation upon anyone who gazed upon it.
Although Liang was only a projected spectator at the banquet, he could somehow perceive the man’s extraordinary aura.
"Late-stage Void Return Realm," Liang whispered, as his lips formed a thin line.
There was no doubt that this individual ranked among the most powerful cultivators in the domain, if not the most formidable himself.
"It’s fortunate that I refrained from attending, or else..." Liang’s lips curled into a knowing smile.
After comprehending the Thousand Derivation Rune, Liang had cultivated the habit of running calculations and deductions before embarking on any significant matter.
Upon learning of the upcoming banquet, he had hoped for a favorable outcome. However, after conducting the first deduction, the projections of fortune were less than impressive.
Dissatisfied, Liang had performed a second deduction. This time, the signs of fortune had vanished entirely, leaving him puzzled.
Since the first two deductions had contradicted each other, Liang had considered a third attempt. Despite the exhaustive nature of the process, he believed it was prudent to minimize uncertainty.
The results had astounded and concerned him, as the third deduction had diverged wildly from the previous two, indicating signs of both alarm and misfortune.
This had convinced Liang to abandon his plans of attending the banquet. It was the first time a three-fold deduction had yielded such conflicting results, and he was not willing to risk it further.