Naturally, this breakthrough was only achievable for those below the grandmaster level. After all, breaking through to that level demanded not just accumulation but also a significant qualitative leap.
Regardless, the celestial stones held an irresistible allure for martial artists below the grandmaster level.
Even grandmaster martial artists would envy them. They knew they could exchange celestial stones for other treasures, even if they didn’t need them.
It wouldn’t be an overstatement to call celestial stones the premier currency in the martial world, as they could be exchanged for various treasures.
So, Miles and the others were excited when they laid eyes on boxes brimming with celestial stones.
“I may not have any weapons or tablets now, but I have several boxes of celestial stones. I’ll assess the value of the treasures you had bet earlier and then exchange them for celestial stones. How does that sound?” Abigail asked.
“Wow, that’s awesome!” Miles couldn’t contain his excitement at the news.
Jewelry might be a dime a dozen, but he knew that celestial stones were as rare as hen’s teeth. For him, the chance to exchange jewelry weapons for celestial stones felt like striking a jackpot.
“I have no objections.” Crystal nodded, and her anticipation grew.
Given her current cultivation level, she desperately needed celestial stones. Plus, having already won a round, she saw no reason to reject the offer.
“The Mystic Arts Order sure is loaded! Using celestial stones as betting chips, now that’s impressive!” Dalen gave a thumbs-up.
Initially, he entertained the idea, but now he was genuinely interested. After all, celestial stones were treasures. He wouldn’t pass up the chance to collect as many as he could.
“Ms. Abigail, aren’t you concerned about the potential loss of using celestial stones as bets for our items?” Ruby looked somewhat puzzled.
Abigail replied, “Don’t worry. As long as everyone’s enjoying themselves.”
She smiled and added, “Remember, only the winner can cash in on celestial stones. If you lose, then you lose everything.”
“Well, that’s true,” Ruby agreed with a nod.
The martial arts tournament’s matches were a roller coaster ride. Until the final bell, no one could predict the outcome.
Abigail’s offer of celestial stones was tempting, but winning them was far from guaranteed.
“Mr. Shade, that’s a fine-looking ruby you’ve got there. How about I trade you two celestial stones for it?”
Abigail eyed the gem Dalen had laid out on the table and promptly made an offer.
“Sure.” He nodded. After all, trading one gem for two stones was a win for him.
Abigail turned to Crystal. “Ms. Wesley, this darksteel short sword is quite the treasure. How about three celestial stones for it?”
“Okay,” Crystal nodded.
Darksteel might have been valuable, but she could have purchased it with money. Celestial stones, on the other hand, weren’t as readily available. So, getting three stones in return was more than enough for Crystal.
Abigail finally looked at Dustin. “Sir, your Tigarius tablet is a high-quality medicine. I’ll give you five celestial stones for it.”
“Sounds good to me.” Dustin nodded.
After the negotiations, Abigail began to distribute the celestial stones.
Dalen’s ruby was worth two stones, so he won four. Crystal received six stones for her sword, and Dustin won ten stones.
Abigail said, “Alright, celestial stones have been distributed. Now, onto the second round of betting.”
She scanned the crowd and announced loudly. “Anyone interested can join in. I have plenty of celestial stones, so it’s up to you to win them!”
With that, the atmosphere around them quickly became lively.
