Extra Pages: The Author's Odyssey
Chapter 216: Auction [2]

Approaching the concealed entrance, I could sense the air thickening with anticipation. The guards stationed at the door scrutinized every guest, ensuring the exclartefactsf this gathering. I presented the invitation I had acquired through Leon's connections, and the heavy door creaked open, granting me access to the clandestine world that awaited below.

Descending a spiral staircase, the murmur of the crowd grew louder. The dimly lit chamber unveiled a sight that would make any collector's heart race—a myriad of artefacts, magical curiosities, and mysterious relics were on display, each with a story woven in shadows and secrets.

"It is an honour that you came to our market."

The middle-aged guide who appeared out of the darkness gave a courteous greeting. I merely slightly nodded my head before asking a question.

"The auction?"

"It will begin soon. As time is short, I will guide you to your reserved seat after a quick explanation. If you wish to bid, you can lightly press the bell in front of your seat. Payment must always be made in advance. We do not take responsibility for problems or losses that result from taking off your mask or revealing your own identity."

I already knew of these things, so I just nodded my head.

"Also please pay entry fees first." Saying that a middle-aged man took a transaction machine and placed it in front of me.

"Before that take a look at this." I handed the VIP membership card to a middle-aged man, his eyes widened as soon as he saw that card.

With this card, I would get 30% off on all purchases.

The middle-aged man inspected the VIP membership card with a mix of surprise and respect. The subtle shift in his demeanour hinted at the newfound recognition of my standing within the black market. He promptly processed the entry fees, ensuring a seamless transition into the heart of the clandestine auction.

"Follow me."

I swiftly moved through a dark tunnel under the lead of the guide.

As we traversed the dark, the air became charged with the whispers of those who navigated this shadowy realm. The guide led me to a reserved seat strategically positioned for optimal viewing of the auction stage. The atmosphere buzzed with electrifying energy as participants and spectators alike prepared for the unveiling of coveted treasures.

"May you have a fruitful time."

The guide took his leave after bidding a polite farewell.

The area we were led to resembled an awards stage at a broadcasting station. It was a thrust stage which extended into the gallery seats, so that the customers would be able to see the products, and slaves, in full detail.

All the customers were seated separately according to their respective companions for the sake of privacy. Prepared on top of the round tables which were allocated to each seat were some simple refreshments, and a pure-gold tabletop bell.

"… Well then, we will now be starting the auction!"

Clap clap clap!

Clap clap!

The auction host finished his greeting to the dry applause of the customers, and the first merchandise shackled in manacles climbed onto the stage.

"A seasoned warrior who has survived thrived in the harsh conditions of the Eastern Wastes! Trained in exotic combat techniques, behold our first item of the evening!"

As the auctioneer presented the seasoned warrior, the manacles rattled, drawing attention to the battle-hardened individual standing on the stage.

"The starting price for this slave is 5 million C."

After a couple of seconds, the auctioneer officially opened the bidding.

Instantly a wave of hands rose in the air.

"Number 50 bids 5.4 million C, going once, Ah! Number 71 bids 6 Million C.

"Number 1000 bids 7 Million C! Oh, number 05 is raising the price even further 10 million is the current bid!

"Is not anyone wants this? Then the this warrior goes too number 5! Congratulations number 5!"

The seasoned warrior was claimed by the highest bidder, and the stage transitioned seamlessly to the next item—an exquisite necklace designed to enhance the wearer's facial beauty. As the dazzling piece was revealed, adorned with precious gems and enchanted with subtle magical charms, the auctioneer began the presentation.

"Ladies and gentlemen, feast your eyes upon this mesmerizing creation—a necklace that not only complements the elegance of any face but also carries a hint of enchantment. Let the bidding commence!"

The starting bid for the enchanting necklace was announced, and the atmosphere crackled with anticipation. Hands shot up, and the auction hall echoed with the rhythmic calls of the auctioneer.

"Number 28 bids 3 million C! Going once, twice... Number 42 raises the bid to 4 million C! Ah, number 89 enters the competition with 5 million C!"

The bids escalated rapidly as patrons vied for the coveted necklace, each offer punctuated by the resonant chime of the golden bell. The auction hall became a symphony of whispered numbers and escalating prices.

"Number 05 bids 7 million C! Going once, going twice... Number 33 challenges with 8 million C! Any more contenders?"

The intensity of the bidding war reached its peak, the fate of the enchanting necklace hanging in the balance. The auctioneer skillfully orchestrated the proceedings, extracting the maximum value from the participants caught in the allure of the exquisite piece.

"Number 09 raises the stakes to 15 million C! Going once, going twice... Sold to number 09! Congratulations on acquiring this magnificent necklace!"

The victorious bidder, masked in anonymity, claimed the enchanting necklace, and the cycle of the clandestine auction continued. Each item presented held its own allure, drawing forth desires and ambitions from the secretive crowd.

As the night unfolded within the shadowy realm of the black market, I navigated the intricate dance of bidding and secrecy, strategically using the VIP membership card to secure discounts on the items that piqued my interest. The masked patrons, shrouded in mystery, engaged in a silent exchange of wealth and desire, their identities concealed beneath the opulent façade.

The auction proceeded with a seamless rhythm, unveiling artifacts, magical curiosities, and intriguing relics.

The night was far from over, and the next item awaited its turn on the stage—a pair of enchanted gloves said to enhance the wearer's magical prowess. As the auctioneer presented the gloves, adorned with arcane symbols, the air once again brimmed with anticipation.

"Prepare yourselves, esteemed guests, for the next item in our clandestine odyssey—a pair of gloves that will weave magic into the very fabric of your being. Let the bidding commence!"