Heavenly Opposers

214  Chapter 214-The Ball[2].

Lady Xia, who had been observing quietly, finally spoke, her voice carrying a weight of experience and wisdom. "Azrail, Lower Heavens might offer opportunities, but it's also a realm where trust is a rare commodity. Be cautious in forming alliances, and always anticipate the hidden motives of those around you."

Azrail looked at Lady Xia, the only one to suddenly butt into the conversation. Her voice was low, and while a gentle formation took place from her words, Azrail could see the scowl that passed through Aihan's face in a moment. Liang didn't seem to mind the words at all, but Azrail could see that the rest of the women weren't loving Xia's words at all.

"I will keep that in mind, Lady Xia."

Azrail spoke, his head nodding while Xia just smiled and took a step back. Empress Aihan, sensing the delicate balance of power in the room, decided to shift the conversation toward a more diplomatic terrain.

"Azrail, your presence here has stirred both curiosity and concern. It would be prudent to establish goodwill among the noble houses. Perhaps a display of your cultivation prowess in this gathering itself?"

Azrail considered the suggestion before responding, "Empress Aihan, I appreciate the wisdom in your words. A display of strength can indeed pacify uncertainties. Let me see, I will decide and see what's needed."

The words of Azrail made Aihan maintain her smile. Azrail could see it—the incoherent feeling within Aihan. Just a word from her, and people would do anything. Yet here lay Azrail, not really giving a care about her. As the conversation unfolded, Valencia interjected with a hidden charming smile, n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

"Empress, if I may, Azrail's expertise in cultivation extends beyond the conventional. A collaborative demonstration, perhaps? It would not only showcase our unity but also strengthen the ties that can perhaps come to exist."

Aihan regarded Valencia with a thoughtful expression. "A collaborative demonstration? An interesting proposition. It may indeed alleviate concerns and foster unity. Let it be so."

The Emperor Liang, observing the exchange, spoke with a measured tone, "Unity is paramount, especially in these uncertain times. Azrail, consider this an opportunity to not only showcase your prowess but to build alliances that withstand the test of time."

Yun smiled suddenly at Liang's words. Azrail could understand what that sly smile meant. His mother isn't a fool not to understand the path that Liang is taking, but sadly for that man, he right now isn't worth anything in his mother's eyes. Thus she spoke.

"I have a plan for a collaboration that might perhaps join this entire continent together."

The words of Yun got the complete attention from everyone. The children all looked with wonder, the powerful women narrowing their eyes, the same for the rest of the members just watching at this. They all understood the deeper depths at play, and thus right now, the one with the most power in the room spoke.

"Oh? And what might that be?"

Liang asked with a low tone, yet Azrail could see the different emotions passing through the man. To this, Yun leaned onto her chair, a subtle silence filling this ball, even with the dance and music. She raised the glass, placing its tip at her lips as she silently took a sip, the lack of attention or respect even making Liang feel like he was about to blow his lid off.

But thankfully, Yun knew the correct amount of teasing that was required as she finally spoke, placing the glass down.

"I plan for an auction, not a normal one but an auction that will pull the greatest powers from this continent to attend."

'She definitely is getting that teasing from Raena.'

Azrail thought, but he didn't hate it. If his mother can finally form her path, then it only makes him happier. The effect of Yun's words spread all around, the first one to make the move was Liang himself as he spoke.

"What kind of auction? It would be great if you could elaborate on it."

Azrail could see that the man ain't like being so submissive, but he is still doing it. For anyone with some intelligence could understand that for Yun to say those words here, to say those words, meant that something great was about to happen.

"I can't give too many spoilers, but the invitations would be sent out to everyone with the details. Just know that no powerful Empire or power will neglect it, and losing out on one item there can change the power structure of the continent as a whole."

These powerful words, if spoken by anyone else, everybody would scoff at. But with the presence of Azrail and the arrivals from possibly the upper heavens, is more than enough to know that this is not a joke, that something big is definitely going to happen.

Azrail observed the reactions in the room, the atmosphere now charged with a mix of curiosity and anticipation. The notion of an auction, especially one with the potential to shift the continent's power dynamics, had the undivided attention of everyone present.

Aihan, the Empress, leaned forward, her eyes gleaming with interest. "An auction of such significance could indeed draw the most influential figures. What would be the highlight of this event, Lady Yun?"

Yun, maintaining her composed demeanor, gave a cryptic smile. "The highlights, Empress, will be varied and enticing. Rare artifacts, ancient treasures, and items of immense power will be on display. Each holding the potential to alter the balance of power in unforeseen ways."

Azrail could sense the wheels turning in the minds of those present. The allure of acquiring such treasures was enough to captivate even the most seasoned cultivators. Liang, while maintaining his regal composure, couldn't hide the flicker of interest in his eyes.

Valencia, by Azrail's side, whispered, 'Your mother surely is playing around with them all'

Azrail nodded. The auction would serve as a focal point, bringing together the most powerful individuals, and Yun intended to use it as a platform to solidify her influence.

The Emperor Liang, after a moment of contemplation, spoke, "A grand auction indeed. Lady Yun, I presume you have a specific venue and date in mind for this event?"

Yun's gaze remained steady as she responded, "Yes, Emperor Liang. it will be in a place I shall create and call the Azure Pavilion, a place that will soon be known for its neutrality and grandeur, and will host the auction. As for the date, it will be announced in the official invitations, ensuring ample time for preparation and anticipation."

The mention of the creation of something called the Azure Pavilion brings a lot of skeptical looks and attention from everyone around, an auction of such level, conducted with powers from all the powers in the continent around isn't something simple at all, the boast of having such a thing being stupid but none spoke aloud about it, due to the very fact that if Yun is saying this then it shall be done, else it will only be bad for them, especially in such a scenario.

Lady Xia, who had been observing silently, finally spoke, "An auction of this magnitude requires meticulous planning and security measures. Lady Yun, do you have a team in mind to oversee the proceedings?"

Yun inclined her head, acknowledging the astuteness of Lady Xia's question. "Rest assured, Lady Xia, a team of experts will be assembled to ensure the security and smooth execution of the auction. No stone will be left unturned to safeguard the integrity of the event."

The conversation continued, delving into the intricacies of the upcoming auction. The attendees, both powerful cultivators and influential figures, began to discuss the potential impact on their respective domains.

Azrail, being at the center of this unfolding narrative, observed the dynamics with a keen eye. He could see the various motives at play, the alliances forming and shifting like currents beneath the surface. The power play within the room was a dance of intellect and strategy, each move carefully calculated.

As the discussions progressed, Yun's vision for the auction became clearer. It wasn't merely about showcasing valuable items, it was a strategic maneuver to consolidate influence, forge alliances, and reshape the political landscape.

Emperor Liang, sensing the gravity of the situation, turned his attention to Azrail. "Azrail, what are your thoughts on this grand auction? It seems your mother has orchestrated an event that could reshape the very foundations of our continent."

Azrail, always measured in his responses, replied, "Emperor Liang, my mother's vision is ambitious and calculated. The Azure Pavilion provides a neutral ground for all parties involved. I see it as an opportunity for collaboration, forging alliances that benefit both the Upper and Lower Heavens."

The Emperor nodded in agreement, recognizing the diplomatic finesse in Azrail's words but at the same time catchin the hidden intent. The subtle acknowledgment of the interconnectedness between the realms showcased Azrail's strategic mindset.

Valencia, sensing the need to contribute, added, "This auction, Your Excellency, transcends the boundaries of individual domains. It is an opportunity for unity, where the strengths of each realm can be showcased, fostering a harmonious coexistence."

The diplomatic discourse continued, weaving a tapestry of words that held the promise of a new era. Lady Xia, observing the interplay of personalities, spoke once more, her voice carrying a tone of caution, "Unity is indeed a noble pursuit, but tread carefully. In the world of power, alliances can be as fragile as they are formidable."

Her words resonated, a subtle reminder of the intricate complexities that governed the realms of influence and ambition. Azrail, ever attentive, smiled inwardly, knowing better that the Xia itself was one to keep an eye on.