The gates of Violet Luminous City towered over the path like ancient guardians. The closer they came, the louder the city became—laughter, shouting, footsteps, and the faint sound of drums.
"Finally," Lin Hua said softly. "It's more lively than I imagined."
Li Tian held her hand casually. "Stay close. Cities like this look fun but have more chaos than quiet."
Two armored guards stood at the entrance, spears crossed.
"Entrance tax," one barked. "Two spirit stones per head. Ten each if you're Foundation Realm or higher."
Li Tian's eyes narrowed. "You testing my realm by sight?"
The guard gave a smug smile. "It's city policy."
Without a word, Li Tian pulled out twenty spirit stones and handed them over.
The other guard looked impressed. "Welcome to Violet Luminous City, esteemed cultivators."
Lin Hua leaned in as they passed. "You gave extra."
"It shuts their mouths. And saves time."
She smiled faintly. He's always so decisive. I like that about him.
Inside the city, the streets pulsed with life. Spirit beast carts rolled past. Street vendors yelled over each other. Cultivators wandered in sect robes, eyeing the stalls for rare finds.
"Spirit-forged bangles! Good for body tempering!"
"Golden fox dumplings! One bite and you'll see the stars!"
"Qi recovery pills! Half price today!"
Li Tian scanned the streets. "Want to try something?"
Lin Hua pointed excitedly. "That meat skewer stand smells amazing!"
They stopped. The old vendor chuckled, handing over two hot skewers sizzling with spicy glaze.
Lin Hua took a bite and blinked in surprise. "It's… delicious!"
Li Tian smiled. She's so easily pleased. That's… kind of nice. She hasn't seen much of the world, has she?
"Better than palace food?" he teased.
"Don't tell the chef," she laughed.
As they walked on, a loud argument echoed from nearby.
"You sold me a dud pill, old man!"
The alchemist barked back. "You have a donkey's meridians. That's not my fault!"
Li Tian shook his head. "Every city's the same."
Suddenly, a group of young cultivators blocked their path. The leader wore a crimson robe with a flaming crest, his expression cocky.
"Well, well," he said, eyes lingering on Lin Hua. "New in the city? I can show you around."
Li Tian's gaze turned sharp. "She's not interested."
The youth smirked. "Does she speak for herself?"
Lin Hua stepped closer to Li Tian. "I'm with my husband."
The guy clicked his tongue. "Pity."
Li Tian stepped forward. "Move."
The group hesitated. Then, seeing Li Tian's calm confidence, they backed away.
Lin Hua looked up at him. "You didn't even raise your voice."
"No need. Only dogs bark before biting."
They entered a quieter street lined with shops—herbs, talismans, even a low-grade beast egg store. The atmosphere shifted from chaos to calm.
"We should find a place to rest," Lin Hua suggested.
They entered a tea house with a small garden and reserved a second-floor room.
As tea was poured, Lin Hua rested her head on her hand. "It feels strange."
"What does?" he asked.
"I've always imagined cities as cold and noisy. But with you… it feels safe."
Li Tian paused. So she really hasn't traveled much. This must be her first time walking among people like this.
Before he could respond, her pouch glowed faintly.
"The orb again," she said, pulling it out.
Li Tian leaned forward. "It's reacting to something nearby."
Outside, across the street, a hooded figure stood still, staring up at their window.
"Eyes are on us," he muttered. "Let's not linger."
A soft knock came.
"Esteemed guests," said a waiter, "a representative from Starfall Auction House is requesting your presence."
"Let them in."
A woman in silver robes entered and bowed. "We sensed a unique energy from your spiritual items. The Starfall Auction cordially invites you to tonight's private event."
Lin Hua exchanged a glance with Li Tian.
"What are they planning?" she whispered.
Li Tian looked at the woman. "We'll attend."
She bowed again and left.
"You think it's dangerous?" Lin Hua asked.
"No. But it's definitely not random. We'll go, observe, and leave if needed."
She nodded slowly. He always seems in control… but I wonder if he ever feels nervous like I do.
They stepped out into the late afternoon light. More people filled the streets. Cultivators boasting loudly. Sects showing off new recruits. Children chasing spirit-infused birds.
A stall caught Lin Hua's eye. Jewelry infused with Qi threads shimmered on display.
"These are pretty."
Li Tian walked over and scanned them. "Basic enchantments. But the designs are good."
"Can I pick one?"
"Of course."
She chose a silver anklet laced with blue light.
"I'll take this one."
He paid without a word, and as they walked away, she whispered, "Thank you."
"You're my wife. Of course I'd buy it."
Spoiling her is… easier than I thought. And not as annoying as I imagined it would become. Even if it was annoying, I'd still do it just to see her smile.
Evening arrived with golden light bathing the city. Lanterns began to glow. Cultivators gathered near inns, taverns lit up, and the air filled with music and warmth.
They sat under a tree near a small fountain. Lin Hua leaned against him, quiet.
"This is the most fun I've had in my life," she murmured.
He brushed her hair back. "There'll be more."
I spent years locked away in caves, chasing strength. And this one day… feels more real than all of that combined.
She smiled up at him. "I don't know what's ahead. But as long as I'm with you… I don't mind."
He kissed her forehead.
"Come on. Let's prepare for the auction. I'm curious what they think is worth our time."