The Grand Aurora Auction House was a fortress of luxury hidden in the center of the city. Tonight, the street outside was lined with Rolls Royces, Bentleys, and Maybachs.
A sleek black Porsche 918 Spyder pulled up to the valet stand.
Alex stepped out, adjusting his cufflinks. He was wearing a new bespoke suit that cost more than the valet's house. Beside him, Luna stepped out. She was wearing a midnight-blue evening gown that concealed the throwing knives strapped to her thighs.
"Stay close," Alex whispered. "Tonight, we are hunting."
They walked up the red carpet. A stiff doorman in a top hat blocked their path.
"Invitation?"
Alex didn't speak. He simply held up his Black Card.
The doorman's eyes widened. He recognized the symbol of the 'Infinite' tier. He bowed deeply, sweating. "Apologies, sir! Please, right this way to the VVIP Box."
Alex walked inside. The main hall was a sea of velvet and gold. The air smelled of expensive perfume and old money.
"System," Alex commanded silently. "God's Eye: Activate."
ZING.
A subtle blue shimmer covered Alex's vision. Suddenly, floating windows appeared above everyone's heads.
He scanned the crowd.
[Name: John Smith] [Net Worth: $50 Million] [Status: Nervous. He is here to sell his family heirlooms to pay off gambling debts.]
[Name: Lady Victoria] [Net Worth: $200 Million] [Status: Bored. Looking for a young husband.]
Alex scoffed. "Small fry."
Then, his eyes landed on a man sitting in the front row. He was an older European man with a monocle and a cane.
[Name: Duke Sterling] [Net Worth: $15 Billion] [Identity: Head of the Sterling Diamond Family (Europe).] [Secret: He is terminally ill. He wants to buy the 'Phoenix Island' because he believes the local legends about healing springs.]
"Interesting," Alex smiled. "A Duke worth $15 Billion. Finally, a real challenge."
Alex and Luna took their seats in the private VVIP box on the balcony, overlooking the peasants below.
"Welcome, ladies and gentlemen!" The Auctioneer banged his gavel. "Tonight is a night of wonders! Let us begin with Lot Number 1!"
Two models brought out a glass case. Inside was a massive blue diamond necklace.
"The 'Tear of the Ocean'!" The Auctioneer shouted. "Starting bid: $5 Million!"
"Six million!" shouted a businessman. "Seven million!" shouted Lady Victoria.
Alex leaned back, sipping champagne. He looked at Luna. She was staring at the necklace.
"Do you like it?" Alex asked.
Luna blinked. "It is... shiny. But tactical utility is zero."
"System," Alex checked Luna's status. [Thought: It reminds me of the moon. It is beautiful.]
Alex smiled. "I'll take that as a yes."
Alex pressed the button on his console.
"$10 Million," Alex's voice rang out over the speakers.
The room went silent. He had jumped the bid by three million instantly.
Duke Sterling looked up at the private box, narrowing his eyes. "Who is that upstart?"
"Sold! To the gentleman in Box 1!"
A waiter brought the necklace to the box immediately. Alex tossed it to Luna.
"Wear it," Alex said. "Consider it a uniform upgrade."
Luna held the $10 Million diamond. Her cold heart skipped a beat. [Loyalty Update: 100% -> 100% (Locked). Emotional Bond Increased.]
"Thank you, Master," Luna whispered, putting it on.
"Don't thank me yet," Alex looked down at the stage. "The main course is coming up."
"And now!" The Auctioneer wiped sweat from his brow. "The final item of the night! The deed to Phoenix Island!"