Chapter 21 Discussing the Tao and Resolving Confusions
Sitting in the corner, Shen Qing heard the words of Princess Yuzhen and felt a bit surprised, thinking to himself: "I didn't expect that apart from mountain treasures and Demon Core wonders, there are also human-cultivated Spiritual Objects in the world. It's truly an eye-opener. I've gained some knowledge today."
A thought crossed his mind, and he discreetly released his Divine Sense, gently touching and sensing those exotic chrysanthemums.
To his astonishment, he discovered that these chrysanthemums indeed contained strands of Spirit Essence, like dewdrops in the morning, refreshing and delightful, prompting him to quietly praise, "Amazing!"
Not sure if it was a delusion, but Princess Yuzhen seemed to sense something, her gaze fleetingly sweeping around Shen Qing.
She asked the maid beside her, "Who is sitting over there? They look somewhat unfamiliar."
The maid apologized, "Your Highness, the ones sitting over there are Lord Huang Furo and Lord Shen Qing."
Upon hearing the name Shen Qing, Princess Yuzhen seemed somewhat enlightened, "So it's him, indeed quite handsome."
She cast a casual glance and then withdrew her gaze, no longer interested.
Inside the hall.
The news of chrysanthemums containing Spiritual Energy spread like a stone thrown into a still lake, causing a ripple of excitement.
Everyone present knew that this year's chrysanthemums were extraordinary. For a while, following Su Zimo of the Su Family, one by one, they lavishly spent fortunes.
"I offer one thousand taels for just one petal!"
"Hmph, do you think a mere one thousand taels is enough? I bid two thousand taels!"
"Three thousand taels, I'm determined to get this flower!"
…
Amidst the cacophony of bids, the scene became lively like the buzzing of cicadas in summer.
It was merely a chrysanthemum petal, seemingly imbued with supreme magic, that led everyone to compete fiercely. The price skyrocketed from the initial thousand taels to a staggering ten thousand taels.
Watching this scene, Shen Qing couldn't help but click his tongue and say, "Truly wealthy indeed, these noble sons, sparing no expense for a mere spiritual chrysanthemum petal."
Huang Furo explained beside him, "To these noble families, gold and silver are useless items, but if they can exchange them for a portion of Spirit Essence, it's worth it to enhance cultivation and break through bottlenecks. Moreover, establishing a connection with Princess Yuzhen through these flowers is a worthwhile endeavor."
"The people here aren't fools. Even if they don't buy anything, making a bid and showing their face is still valuable."
Shen Qing showed an understanding expression.
After some fierce bidding, the twelve petals of the glowing Nine Sun Chrysanthemum each found a buyer among twelve people.
Seeing her own brother make the first bid and truly show his face in front of Princess Yuzhen, Su Qiaoqiao was quite pleased, her face beaming with joy.
Afterwards, everyone began to continue commenting on the other chrysanthemums in the hall.
Shen Qing didn't have much interest as he was not here for the chrysanthemums today.
He picked up the teacup and drank tea, no longer paying attention.
Huang Furo curiously asked next to him, "Don't you want to show your face in front of Princess Yuzhen? You might use this chance to climb the social ladder. It's a rare opportunity today."
"I don't understand chrysanthemums, nor am I interested in them, so I prefer not to embarrass myself," Shen Qing said, looking at Huang Furo, as if he had thought of something, jokingly saying, "Speaking of which, chrysanthemums have another name where I come from."
"What name? Tell me," Huang Furo asked curiously.
Shen Qing smiled and said, "In my hometown, chrysanthemums are often used to describe a kind of quirky sparrow."
"What kind of sparrow is that?"
"Just a special kind of sparrow."
Huang Furo wanted to ask more, but Shen Qing was unwilling to say more.
Time slowly passed. Continue your adventure with My Virtual Library Empire
After almost an hour, dishes began to be served, marking the start of today's Chrysanthemum Viewing Feast.
"Next, let's all speak freely, discuss ancient and modern topics, and exchange what we have."
Princess Yuzhen gently raised the jade cup in her hand, concealing her sleeve, she sipped a cup of Baihua wine, completely igniting the atmosphere in the hall.
Guests whispered to each other, making the hall bustling with life and noise.
"Your Highness, you're well-versed; I have a question that I don't understand and came to seek your wisdom," a young man in a blue robe stood up, cupping his hands, and asked first, "Why do these chrysanthemums contain such unique Spirit Essence this year? In previous years, they did not."
"Indeed, they didn't in previous years, so why this year?"
The man clad in a blue robe voiced the doubt in many people's hearts.
Princess Yuzhen smiled gently, carrying a touch of dignified grace in her demeanor, "If I remember correctly, you're Cui Mingxuan, the second son of the Cui Family?"
Cui Mingxuan hurriedly bowed, with a hint of uncontainable tremor, "I didn't expect Your Highness to remember me, truly an honor."
Princess Yuzhen didn't mind, she said harmoniously, "This matter indeed is a long story."
"We all know that we are now at Beihai Lake, its waters vast and boundless. It's said to have been created by a Great Power from the Ancient Times, who punched it into existence. When we think about it today, it's indeed somewhat incredible."
"But let me tell you, such phenomena were common in the Ancient Times and not surprising at all."
Everyone present focused their attention, listening attentively.
Even Shen Qing, who was not very interested in the Chrysanthemum Viewing Festival, became rare in his seriousness.
Princess Yuzhen continued, "In the Ancient Times, the Spirit Essence was ample, and everything had its spirituality. Those without sentient minds, we called them spirit plants or spirit beasts. Once they awakened their sentience, they transformed into demons; if one's mind fell into imbalance, they might become demons that endanger the world."