Tian Ji gave up on the bidding because the poisoning of his second uncle was not severe, and he could survive longer than the other two poisoned individuals; thus, his plan was similar to that of the ice-cold girl, thinking it wise to save the money for when a truly useful antidote appeared, and then it would not be too late to act.
When Lu Qiu learned he had secured the small elixir, he was excited; however, his joy lasted only a few seconds before Zhong Hongyan doused him with a "bucket of cold water."
"I just received a notification announcing another Hundred Steps Heart-Piercing Poison Antidote awaiting auction; now, I present the elixir here; if anyone needs it, hurry and start bidding; this might be the last antidote available, so I hope everyone seizes the opportunity," Zhong Hongyan said as she glanced meaningfully at the three bidders below, hoping they understood her implication.
Indeed, she was creating a sense of crisis to drive the auction of the elixir.
