The Immortal Court’s Apothecary

Wu Pangzi uncorked the jade bottle containing Spirit-Gathering Pills and took a deep sniff. The gnawing hunger in his body seemed to ease a little, and he was tempted to smell them again. But when he noticed the old man's displeased expression, his heart skipped a beat. He quickly put on a smile and said, "Fellow Daoist, these Qi-Gathering Pills are only average quality. How much for a bottle?" The old man smiled faintly, unfazed. "Young friend, you certainly have a keen nose. These Qi-Gathering Pills may not be top-grade, but they get the job done. As for the price, naturally it depends on the market. I want thirty spirit stones for this bottle." Wu Pangzi furrowed his brow and raised his voice, feigning surprise. "Thirty spirit stones? That's no small sum! Fellow Daoist, don't you think that's a little steep?" The old man didn't get angry. He replied calmly, "Young friend, you know perfectly well how effective these Qi-Gathering Pills are. Thirty spirit stones is absolutely worth it. Besides, that's already the going market rate. If you don't believe me, you can ask around at other shops." Wu Pangzi knew the old man was telling the truth. These Qi-Gathering Pills really were a great aid to cultivation, replenishing spiritual energy quickly. For a cultivator like him, who often used up large amounts of spiritual energy, they were indispensable. But thirty spirit stones was no small sum. He had only a few dozen left, and still needed to buy some spirit rice. Would he end up starving to death? He would have to think it over carefully. So Wu Pangzi began haggling with the old man. They went back and forth, neither willing to yield. After a fierce bout of bargaining, Wu Pangzi finally bought them for twenty-eight spirit stones.