Chapter 48 Unveiling the Unknown
Long Tian skillfully navigated his car, steering towards the Yu Family Auction House, with Liu Qian comfortably seated beside him.
Though it bore the name "auction house," well, that was indeed its purpose—a place of auction. Yet, it also resembled a market, showcasing a diverse array of goods.
Auction events were a rarity, reserved for when unique and opulent items were put up for bid.
"It's been quite a while since we found ourselves in a situation like this, Long Tian. I never expected to be alone with you again," Liu Qian initiated the conversation, a warm smile gracing her lips.
"Yeah, despite us having been childhood friends. It's a shame that we haven't had many chances to talk since our middle school graduation," Long Tian responded.
"As our graduation draws near, it's funny how life has a way of bringing us together. By the way, what are your plans for further studies?" Liu Qian inquired.
"I've set my sights on Xuantian Academy," Long Tian replied.
Liu Qian nodded approvingly, "That's a prestigious institution in China. With your talent, I'm sure you'll secure a place without any difficulty," she said.
"What about you?" Long Tian turned the question around.
"Looks like I might be joining my family in the Great Yuan Dynasty. You know, our family's roots trace back there. But it's not set in stone yet, as it hinges on my father's decision," Liu Qian explained.
"I see. The Great Yuan Dynasty boasts several powerful institutions and sects. Your talents would undoubtedly flourish there," Long Tian remarked.
Liu Qian acknowledged his insight with a nod. Deep down, she still wished to remain in China. However, familial demands required her and her father to return to the Great Yuan Dynasty.
On the other hand, Long Tian found himself intrigued by the mere mention of the Great Yuan Dynasty.
In this world, geographical locations and histories differed from those on Earth. There was no America, Germany, or other superpower nations. Instead, this world was a blend of modern conventions interwoven within an empire and kingdom system.
The existence of Reiki spanning tens of thousands of years had empowered countless individuals, sustaining the very fabric of this empire-based order.
To the east, there was the Han Empire, akin to China; the Japanese Empire; and the Great Yuan Dynasty, ruled by the Mongol people. Then there was the Murim Alliance, led by the Koreans.
In the southern and northern regions, the extensive Roman Empire reigned supreme. And towards the west, the Kingdom of Egypt retained its influence.
This world wasn't dotted with hundreds of nations; instead, a handful of empires and kingdoms governed vast territories.
Distinct power systems operated within these kingdoms. The Han Empire, Japan, the Great Yuan Dynasty, and the Murim Alliance all embraced the term "Cultivation" within their power structure.
However, the Roman Empire and Egypt differed, adopting the term "Magic" in lieu of Cultivation.
When China referred to its practitioners as cultivators, the Roman Empire termed them Magus, while the Kingdom of Egypt identified its practitioners as Magi.
Essentially, they were the same concept with different names. Reiki and Mana were interchangeable terms, differing mainly in cultural context and nomenclature.
And, the same held true for martial spirits. All kingdoms referred to them as martial spirits, with no variation in terminology.
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After driving for over ten minutes, Long Tian pulled to a stop not far from a grand building with the words "Yu Family Auction House" intricately carved onto its fa?ade.
They had arrived at their destination. Long Tian calmly parked his car in the designated area, and he and Liu Qian stepped out.
Walking through the entrance, they were immediately greeted by opulent architecture. The place resembled a mall, albeit on a smaller scale.
True to its name, the establishment buzzed with activity, akin to a bustling market, bustling with numerous visitors.
Liu Qian followed Long Tian's lead. Not particularly interested in the market herself, she simply trailed behind him.
"So, what are you looking for?" she asked curiously.
"I'm not sure you'll understand what I'm talking about," Long Tian replied.
"Heh, you underestimate me. Just tell me what you're searching for—I'll know all about it," Liu Qian confidently asserted.
"Very well, I'm in search of Phoenix feather ash, starlight Orchid nectar, moonshadow fern essence, and divine elixir sand," Long Tian responded, his gaze skeptical of Liu Qian's ability to answer.
Surprisingly, Liu Qian smirked dismissively, "Is that all? Phoenix feather ash originates from the ashes of a phoenix's plume—a symbol of rebirth and fiery energy. Starlight Orchid nectar is the essence of a rare flower that blooms during meteor showers, connecting to cosmic energy. Moonshadow fern essence is extracted from a plant that thrives only under a full moon, enhancing Yin energy connection. Divine elixir sand is sand sourced from sacred grounds, acting as a stabilizing agent for controlled evolution. Am I right?" She confidently answered.
Long Tian was taken aback by Liu Qian's response. Every word she had uttered was accurate—she had nailed it.
"How did you know?" he inquired, intrigued.
"Oh my, Long Tian, have you forgotten that my family specializes in alchemy? It's basic knowledge for me," Liu Qian stated with self-assuredness, crossing her arms.
"What? A family of alchemists?" Long Tian raised an eyebrow.
"Yes, for generations, my family has been steeped in the study of Alchemy. But the ingredients you mentioned are incredibly rare. I'm not sure you'll find them here," Liu Qian explained.
"Well, sometimes rare items are found in the most unexpected places," Long Tian replied.
"Perhaps you're right," Liu Qian nodded.
As they walked, they engaged in pleasant conversation. Liu Qian found herself at ease in Long Tian's company.
Despite having heard rumors about Long Tian being a playboy, observing him firsthand, she couldn't see it.
Yet, she understood why, despite being labeled as a playboy, he remained a heartthrob among the girls. Long Tian was undeniably handsome.
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After a while, the two of them arrived at a sizable store labeled "Medical Goods."
"Is this the place?" Liu Qian inquired.
"Yes, let's go inside," Long Tian replied.
Liu Qian nodded, and with that, they entered.
"Welcome to our store," a woman greeted them.
Long Tian simply nodded and proceeded further into the establishment.
The place was quite spacious, filled with shelves containing various plants and herbal remedies. Anything one could desire seemed to be available here.
Long Tian delved into exploring the store, while Liu Qian also searched for the ingredients he was seeking.
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