The Sacred Leaves Family's Wishes for Peace-Chapter 51 Three Families and Seven Clans

"These seven clans," Sun Fenglin continued, his tone steady yet filled with a subtle hint of reverence, "are considered secondary to the three great families, but their influence is by no means negligible. Each boasts a sizable number of cultivators, with several in the higher stages of the Breath Embryo Realm. While they may not rival the three families in terms of sheer power, their combined presence maintains a delicate balance in our kingdom’s cultivation hierarchy."

He sipped his tea, his gaze drifting to the serene lake outside, where the dense mist continued to shroud the world in a dreamlike haze.

"The reason the seven clans cannot rise beyond their current status," Sun Fenglin added, "is not only due to the resources monopolized by the three families but also because the seven often compete against one another. Unlike the triad, which has learned to maintain a loose alliance when necessary, the seven clans are plagued by internal rivalries."

Yan Tian nodded, his expression thoughtful. "So, the three families stand united enough to dominate, while the seven clans’ lack of cohesion keeps them from challenging the status quo."

"Precisely," Sun Fenglin confirmed.

Yan Shui, sitting beside Yan Dong, had been listening quietly, his youthful curiosity piqued. He leaned closer and whispered, "Dong, imagine if we became strong enough to compete with these families and clans. Wouldn’t that be incredible?"

Yan Dong grinned, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "I’ll leave the scheming to you, Yan Shui-ge. Just make sure there’s good food and a soft bed when we get there."

Sun Tianming, noticing the murmured conversation between the two younger ones, chuckled and addressed them. "Lads, you’re witnessing the larger world for the first time. Observe, learn, and remember—power is not just about individual strength but the collective force of those who stand with you."

"Yes, Uncle Sun," Yan Shui replied earnestly, his gaze now fixed on the approaching shore in the distance.

As the great vessel glided further into the lake, the swirling mist began to thin, revealing the outlines of what lay ahead. A massive floating city gradually came into view, its architecture a breathtaking blend of otherworldly grace and practical sturdiness.

Suspended above the shimmering waters of Yulin Lake, the floating city was a marvel of cultivation ingenuity. Its vast platforms were interconnected by elegant bridges, and towering pavilions rose skyward, their colorful banners fluttering in the breeze. On the edges of the platforms, faint barriers of golden light shimmered, protecting the city from the elements.

"Welcome to the Floating Market of Yulin Lake," Sun Tianming said, his voice tinged with pride. "This is where dreams and fortunes are made—or broken."

The group stood in awe, taking in the sight of cultivators bustling through the market, their robes of various designs hinting at diverse sects, families, and walks of life. The air was alive with the hum of spiritual energy, as buyers and sellers engaged in animated exchanges of rare treasures, elixirs, and ancient texts.

"Stay close," Sun Fenglin warned, his expression turning serious. "While the market operates under an unspoken truce, dangers always lurk where power and wealth converge."

Yan Shui exchanged a glance with Yan Tian and Yan Shuang, a silent agreement passing between them. They would tread carefully in this haven of cultivation intrigue, their senses sharp and their ambitions steady.

For now, they were here to learn, to trade, and to witness the vastness of the world beyond the confines of their familial stronghold. But deep within, the fire of aspiration burned brighter than ever.

The lake stretched vast and boundless as the mist dissipated to reveal the fabled Yulin Market, a sprawling hub of cultivation activity perched on an island at the heart of Yulin Lake. The towering structures, bridges, and pavilions within the market glistened under the sunlight, exuding an otherworldly aura that made the scene seem like a hidden realm out of legend.

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As the ferry gently docked at the bustling pier, cultivators disembarked with measured steps, their robes flowing like waves, each exuding an air of purpose. The dock itself was alive with activity—a kaleidoscope of colors, textures, and voices as merchants called out, hawking their wares, while travelers debated prices or exchanged pleasantries.

Standing amidst this vibrant scene, Yan Shui took a deep breath, his eyes sparkling with curiosity. "So, this is what the outside world looks like..." he muttered, his voice tinged with awe.

His younger cousin Yan Dong peered around, his mouth slightly agape. "It’s like a market back home... but so much bigger and... shinier. Look, there’s a stall with glowing things! Are those... floating swords?" he exclaimed, tugging at Yan Shui’s sleeve.

"Probably spirit weapons," Yan Shui responded, though his own attention was drawn to a stall displaying shimmering elixirs that seemed to pulse with light. He turned to their uncle Yun Yue, who was already conversing with Sun Tianming about logistics.

"Uncle," Yan Shui interjected. "What do we do first?"

Before Yun Yue could respond, Sun Tianming clasped his hands together and smiled. "Yun Yue-brother, I’ll be taking my sons to another part of the market to fulfill some family obligations. Why don’t we reconvene here in a few hours?"

"That sounds perfect," Yun Yue replied. Turning to his nephews and niece, he added, "This is your chance to explore, but stay close to one another. And remember: we’re here to learn, not cause trouble."

"Yes, Second Uncle!" Yan Shui and Yan Dong replied in unison, though Yan Shui’s excitement was far more subdued compared to his younger cousin’s boundless enthusiasm.

As they moved deeper into the market, Yan Tian and Yan Shuang led the group, their sharp eyes scanning the stalls and vendors with practiced caution. The market was a treasure trove of cultivation resources, with items ranging from rare herbs to intricately forged artifacts. Yet, even amidst such abundance, the prices were staggering.

Yan Tian paused at a stall displaying a beautifully crafted pill furnace. "This looks like it could be of use to Yun Xun for his alchemical pursuits," he mused, examining the intricate runes etched into the furnace.

"Let’s ask about the price," Yan Shuang suggested, stepping forward.

The vendor, a bearded man with a shrewd glint in his eyes, bowed slightly. "Ah, you’ve got a discerning eye, young miss. This furnace is no ordinary tool—it’s forged with spirit copper and blessed by a master alchemist. A mere 15 lower-grade spirit stones, and it’s yours."

Yan Shuang frowned. "Fifteen? That’s steep for a furnace."

The vendor shrugged, his smile never wavering. "Quality commands its price, young lady."

Yan Shui, standing slightly apart, observed the exchange with interest but refrained from interjecting. He turned to glance at Yan Dong, who was busy gawking at a nearby stall displaying miniature, animated spirit beasts.

"They’re like toys!" Yan Dong exclaimed. "But they move!"

"Focus," Yan Shui muttered, suppressing a smile. "We’re here for serious business." Experience tales with novelbuddy

As the hours passed, the group wandered deeper into the market, soaking in its unique atmosphere. Everywhere, the interplay of spiritual energy created an almost tangible hum in the air. Vendors demonstrated their wares with bursts of light or sound, while buyers haggled over items that promised to enhance their cultivation or safeguard their lives.

Finally, as the sun began its slow descent, casting a warm glow over the lake, the group found themselves back at the pier. Sun Tianming and his sons were already waiting, their faces betraying a mix of satisfaction and exhaustion.

"Well, how was your first experience at the Yulin Market?" Sun Tianming asked, addressing the younger members of Yun Yue’s party.

"Eye-opening," Yan Tian replied succinctly.

"Expensive," Yan Shui added with a small grin.

"And awesome!" Yan Dong concluded, his eyes still sparkling with excitement.

The adults chuckled. As the ferry began its journey back across the lake, the group reflected on their day, their minds buzzing with the sights, sounds, and possibilities that the wider world of cultivation had revealed. For the young disciples of the Yan family, the market had not only broadened their horizons but also ignited a deeper resolve to grow stronger.