I Created A Dungeon In A Cultivation World

338  Chapter 338

In a quiet corner of the Elemental City, where the soft glow of elemental lanterns casts long shadows, Argon pauses to reflect on the city's vibrant life and his role in it. His gaze wanders to the interface of the system, a translucent screen only visible to him, displaying his status and the profits accumulated from the city's operations. The numbers flicker before his eyes—50,000 souls found in just one day—a testament to the city's bustling activity

"It's too bad that I can't sell items in this city like on the exchange floor," Argon muses, the thought striking him as a missed opportunity for even greater profits. His mind, always strategizing, considers the potential benefits of expanding his operations to include direct sales.

With a thought, he summons the system interface, a familiar action that feels as natural to him as breathing. "System," Argon begins, his voice resonating with a mix of curiosity and challenge, "is it really necessary to take half of the profit to keep the city running?"

The system responds promptly, its voice devoid of emotion yet imbued with an authoritative certainty that leaves no room for negotiation. "Yes, host. The city is pretty big for a beginner city." n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

"Well, I'm not really complaining," the system's response confirming what he already knows yet hoping for a different answer. The costs of maintaining such an extensive operation, especially one as unique and complex as the Elemental City, are substantial. Yet, part of him chafes at the reminder of the system's control, even if it is instrumental to his success.

As Argon resumes his nocturnal stroll through the vibrant streets of the Elemental City, his attention is captured by a store that stands out among the others. The sign above the entrance reads "Phoenix Blade Group Store," its letters glowing softly in the night, beckoning passersby with the promise of treasures within. A spark of recognition ignites in Argon's mind. "Oh, is this fate? Isn't this the store of our little main character, Alix?" he muses to himself.

The realization that he's stumbled upon the very store associated with Alix, a notable figure within his dungeon, fills Argon with a sense of intrigue and excitement. Despite the natural rivalry that exists between the dungeon owner and the adventurer, Argon can't help but feel a curious anticipation about what Alix has managed to achieve. It's a complex feeling, a mix of adversary anticipation and a genuine interest in the potential of those who challenge his domain.

With a determined stride, Argon enters the Phoenix Blade Group Store, his disguised appearance allowing him to blend in seamlessly with the other patrons. The interior of the store is warmly lit, casting a welcoming glow over an array of shelves and display cases meticulously arranged around the space. Each item on display is carefully labeled, their descriptions detailing their origins and properties in a clear, concise manner.

As Argon browses through the store, he quickly notes that the majority of the goods seem to originate from the tombs. "It's mostly pills and weapons," he observes silently, his gaze sweeping over the array of items. The weapons range from exquisitely crafted swords with blades that seem to shimmer with an inner light, to sturdy spears and halberds, each imbued with elemental energies that pulsate gently beneath their surfaces.

While Argon's presence in the store goes unnoticed by the other customers, a store assistant approaches him, mistaking him for an ordinary cultivator interested in their wares. "Welcome to the Phoenix Blade Group Store," the assistant says with a polite bow. "Are you looking for anything specific? Our selection of tomb-retrieved items is quite extensive, and we pride ourselves on the quality and potency of our pills and weapons."

Argon turns his attention to the assistant, a neutral expression on his face. "I'm just browsing for now," he replies, his voice carefully modulated to hide any hint of his true identity. "Your selection is indeed impressive."

The assistant nods, pleased with the response. "If you have any questions or need recommendations, please feel free to ask. We're here to help."

As Argon peruses the items within the Phoenix Blade Group Store, a sudden commotion outside catches his attention. Curiosity piqued, he drifts closer to the entrance, his eyes discreetly observing the scene unfolding on the street.

A small crowd has gathered, their eyes locked on a figure approaching the store. "Isn't that the leader of Phoenix Blade?" a female cultivator whispers excitedly to her friend, her gaze fixed on the approaching figure. The friend, equally enthralled, nods vigorously, her eyes sparkling with admiration. "Gosh, he's so handsome," she breathes out, a note of awe in her voice.

Nearby, a young cultivator stands slightly apart from the group, his expression a mix of admiration and wistfulness. "I want to join the Phoenix Blade group," he confesses to no one in particular, his voice tinged with a hint of frustration. "But I can't even pass the first test."

The crowd's murmurs grow louder as the figure draws closer, his confident stride and the aura of power that surrounds him marking him unmistakably as the leader of the famed Phoenix Blade Group. Onlookers exchange excited glances and whispers, their attention riveted on this charismatic leader who has captured the imagination of so many in the Elemental City.

"You know, there's is a rumor that they are already conquering large tombstones." one enthusiastic fan recounts to another, her words sparking a flurry of nods and agreement from those around her.

"Wow, that's impressive if it's true. After even renowned sects and clans, can't get past the first stage of the large tombstones." his friend was surprised, his voice filled with respect and admiration for the deeds of the Phoenix Blade leader.

Alix approaches the entrance of his store, he pauses, casting a glance over the gathered crowd. A smile graces his lips, an acknowledgment of the support and admiration of the people before him. "Thank you for your support, everyone. We at Phoenix Blade are committed to exploring the depths of the dungeon and bringing back treasures for all. Your encouragement means a lot to us," he addresses the crowd, his voice strong and clear, resonating with sincerity and confidence.