Crystal Water Auction House

Shen Yu conversed with Lan Ming for a few more minutes about random topics and then realized that it was already evening. He looked outside the window at the sun shining red on the horizon. 

"Looks like it's time for us to Leave, Miss Lan. Thanks for your hospitality."

Shen Yu said, putting down his cup of tea. It was really delicious that he finished three. He looked at the cup longingly and sighed; this type of delicious tea was the best for a tea lover like him.

"If it isn't much to ask, where you two will be going now? The Heavenly Sect Federation should be closed by now."

Lan Ming asked, standing up along with the duo of Shen Yu and Ying Yue. 

"Oh! No problem at all. We are going to the Crystal Water Auction House. I need to buy that girl."

Hearing Shen Yu's answer, a hint of displeasure and disdain appeared on her face, which she tried quickly to hide. But how could Shen Yu not see it? He laughed and said.

"I think you're misunderstanding, Miss Lan. I'm not buying her as a slave or anything. I just saw her today and....just couldn't bear to see her like that. I didn't want to cause too much commotion and just decided to buy her. After that, I'll give her a choice of either entering my sect or living a normal life, which I'll help with."

Lan Ming gasped as her mouth went wide open in surprise. Realizing what had just happened, she bowed and said in her most sincere voice.

"I apologize for having those thoughts without knowing fully."

"Haha, you don't need to worry about small details. In fact, I'm quite happy that you don't see humans as everyone else does."

Shen Yu laughed and waved his hand, not bothered even the least. Even he would feel displeased if someone said they wanted to buy a slave girl with a smile on their face, so in a way, Lan Ming's reaction made a good impression of her in Ying Yue's and Shen Yu's hearts.

Lan Ming sighed and then smiled. On the inside, she was berating herself for judging Shen Yu so quickly. He was obviously a kind person who just wanted a girl to have freedom, and she was having the wrong thoughts about him.

"How about I accompany you to the Crystal Water Auction House? I have a VIP room, so we'll have a good room and atmosphere."

Lan Ming proposed as a way to make up for her previous mistakes. Although Shen Yu didn't feel much bothered by her comments, he took on the offer. After all, VIP rooms were always better in the auction arc.

He nodded and agreed to her proposal. After that, they left the restaurant and headed towards the Crystal Water Auction House under Lan Ming's leadership. They could have taken a carriage, but the auction house wasn't far away, so they preferred to walk.

Soon, they reached a tall building with a big plaque on top that read "Crystal Water Auction House." The whole structure was adorned with beautiful artwork and a mesmerizing sky-blue color.

The crowd near the entrance of the building was huge, as many people tried to push others inside. Shen Yu raised an eyebrow in surprise and looked at Lan Ming.

"Is it always this crowded?"

"Not really. It's a Bimonthly Auction and has things of high value; that's why it's so crowded. After all, this Auction House is the biggest Auction House in the whole of Jade Province."

Lan Ming explained as she led the duo in a different direction to that of the entrance gate. They walked for some time and reached the left side of the building, where only a few people were there. 

Many luxurious carriages were also parked there, showing the importance of this side of the entrance, which was only for the elites.

They proceeded to walk towards the entrance, where two guards stood, and two beautiful young ladies welcomed the guests with beautiful smiles on their faces.

"Welcome, Sir, Ma'am. Welcome, Lady Lan."

The two ladies greeted the trio as the guards bowed lightly towards Lan Ming, showing her reputation and influence. They obviously knew her and respected her.

"Thanks. I'll be attending today's auction, and these two are with me; I hope there is no problem."

Lan nodded at their greetings and said, pointing towards Shen Yu and Ying Yue.

"Of course, there is no problem. You're welcome to bring any number of guests, Lady Lan."

The two ladies had obviously received the order to let Lan Ming do whatever she wished, so why would they stop her? They made way for the three of them and looked at them entering the building. Then, they resumed their work.

"Miss Lan really has a lot of influence."

Shen Yu spoke, hands clasped behind his back as he walked beside Lan Ming on the red carpet. Ying Yue, as usual, was like a shadow of Shen Yu and followed him silently.

Although Shen Yu didn't say anything, he felt a little strange. But he didn't say anything because that was Ying Yue's wish: to remain as his shadow.

"You jest! It's nothing much. I was born in this town, so of course, I have some connections here. I'm sure once your sect is established, you will have even more influence."

Lan Ming put her hand on her lips and giggled lightly. They joked around and soon reached a door after climbing a set of stairs. Lan Ming had visited the Auction House many times, so she knew the place like the back of her hand.

On the side of the door, a girl was standing while closing her eyes. Hearing the footsteps, she opened her eyes and smiled. She twisted the knob of the door for the trio and said.

"As usual, Lady Lan."

"I'll tell you if I need something."

Lan Ming smiled at the girl and entered the VIP room along with Shen Yu and Ying Yue. The girl nodded and closed the door, then continued to stand like before.