The lights dimmed.
A hush fell across the lavish, chandelier-lit auction hall as a man in a black coat stepped onto the central platform. He raised a single hand, and without any spiritual energy or theatrics, the room quieted further—as if the air itself knew not to disobey.
Judging by his golden blonde hair and the respectful manner with which everyone in the crowd was listening to the announcer, Kain (rightfully) assumed that this man was likely a member of a branch of the royal family.
"Welcome," the announcer said, "to the 242nd Royal Auction of the Celestial Empire."
Polite applause followed. No cheers. No dramatics. This was not a coliseum—it was a battlefield for wallets and wits.
