The day began like any other, with the vivid colors of morning spreading across the landscape and rousing Zuigao from his slumber. As he wearily surveyed his surroundings, he couldn't help but feel neglected. His injuries had been hastily tended to, with no real care or attention, by an unskilled servant. It was clear to him that the one responsible was likely enjoying the comforts of a luxurious carriage, far removed from the harsh realities that Zuigao faced.
In that moment, he reflected on the nature of humanity, realizing that not everyone could be trusted or relied upon. The meager attempt at treatment left him feeling frustrated and vulnerable. Only a makeshift remedy, a pill that he ingested to counter the effects of the ice poison, offered some relief. Ultimately, it was his own resilient immune system that played the pivotal role in his survival.
The individual in question faced a dilemma when his injuries were left unattended. Should he have displayed vulnerability or resorted to pleading? Surveying his surroundings, he observed at least three slave carriages, with the one he was on accommodating the lowest number but highest quality of slaves. It seemed apparent that the slave trade was reserved for prominent families. Additionally, the individual sensed that the person in the leading golden armor possessed cultivation in the Qi tempering stage at the very least.
Furthermore, the opulent carriage captured his attention. As the carriages shifted slightly, he caught a glimpse of a woman through the window, her appearance concealed by a grey veil. Despite her obscured visage, he perceived her as someone possessing keen, eagle-like eyes, indicative of high intelligence.
He refrained from engaging in much conversation with the nearby slaves, uncertain whether they would cross paths again. A thin layer of frost still lingered on his right arm. Previously, the frost had been more extensive, causing a numbing sensation, but now it had receded, intensifying the pain.
In recent days, not much has transpired as the monstrous creature has veered away from the path of the caravans. Scores of guards, all at the peak of the Foundation Establishment stage and clad in gleaming silver armor, trailed behind each carriage. They exuded an undeniable aura of power, from their well-honed physiques to their synchronized, rhythmic movements. Zuigao found himself trapped, with no means of escape. Huddled in a shadowy corner of the caged carriage, he watched as the others peered out through the iron bars, their expressions a mix of apprehension and determination.
He showed no regard for their well-being. They held onto the hope of escaping and living a good life, but in reality, they were destined for mistreatment and exploitation. He was not exempt from this fate either. He found himself in a similar situation, albeit slightly better. As the carriages advanced, the grassy plains transformed into rolling hills, guided by a man adorned in golden armor, riding a golden chariot. In the distance, a faint outline of buildings came into view. The carriages made their way toward the city, which boasted two main entrances: one from the west and the other from the south. The western entrance was home to the bustling marketplace, while the southern gate hosted an array of shops selling robes, weapons, and various herbs and materials, catering to the disciples of the Flying Sword Sect who frequented the city. Zuigao observed in silence, absorbing both relevant and irrelevant information shared by the Silver guards.
They finally arrived at the towering wooden door, flanked by massive white walls that stood at least 50 feet tall and 10 inches thick. Above the walls, small towers housed archers and guards, keeping a watchful eye on the surroundings. The golden man proudly presented a Golden Token inscribed with the words "Wind Haven," and with a creak, the massive gate slowly swung open.
As they entered the city, the clamor of the bustling crowd filled the air, with people shouting and making way for the arriving carriages. Amidst the commotion, a conversation caught their attention.
"Hmm, looks like there are slaves this year," remarked one man.
"But isn't slavery illegal and considered a demonic act?" chimed in another.
A third man scoffed, "The law means nothing to them when they're big and strong."
Meanwhile, an old man in his 70s peered out from a window on the second floor, his gaze fixed on the horizon. "My daughter Shin Shui, I hope they have Jade Vitality Grass. I can refine a pill for you. Let's see how the other Clans in the city will respond."
Three envoys, adorned in magnificent robes, made their grand entrance and greeted the onlookers with grace and elegance. The Wind Haven Clan, a 3rd rate clan, stood tall and proud, overshadowing all the other clans in the city. As an opulent carriage arrived, a female servant swiftly emerged, holding a vibrant red and orange umbrella to shield her mistress from the sun. The nonchalant mistress, appearing to be in her mid-twenties, welcomed the envoys. A man in resplendent red robes, Bai Ge, the Third elder of the Bai clan, extended his greetings. Following him, a man in pristine white robes, Wu Shu, the Second elder of the Wu clan, offered his salutations. Lastly, the man in the middle, Shi Bai, the second elder of the Shi clan, respectfully introduced himself as the envoy.
The woman who was wearing an orange and red robe with beautiful engravings also replied but not bowed, "This year, the elders have indeed changed, and new ones are here. The festival will start in 2 weeks now. Explain the situation".
The man in red robes remarked, "The Bai clan will host the Weapons refining, pill, and other herbs-related sections."
The man in the white robe said, "The sections regarding entertainment and other things will be hosted by the Wu clan."
The man in the middle said, "The auction, Beauty Tower, and the Martial Competition will be hosted by the Shi Clan".
Zuigao listened attentively and absorbed the information.
It was not too surprising that multiple sections of the event will be hosted by different clans.
There were smaller ones as well regarding art, cooking, and many other fields that the envoys discussed.
But Zuigao didn't care. His time was limited. Maybe the auction happen in the end or the middle of the event.
Maybe it could even start at the beginning.
Whatever was going to be. He was still just a slave.
"I can't remember the exact text, but I'm interested in the upcoming festival. It seems like there will be a lot of interesting events hosted by different clans. I'm particularly looking forward to the auction, and the Martial Competition hosted by the Shi Clan. It's going to be a busy and exciting time, I will see how it all will unfold.
May my luck cling to me again and just save me from this pit hole"