Emperor's Reckoning



King Wolfric chuckled heartily and extended his arms wide, "Ah, the Astra Arcane Auction! I'm not just a king, but an avid visitor of that marvelous spectacle. You'll witness treasures beyond imagination, artifacts that defy logic, and beings from realms you couldn't fathom."

Leopold, ever reserved, nodded in agreement. "Indeed, Astra Auction is a place of great intrigue. We must proceed with caution."

As they rode towards the Astra Arcane Auction, the anticipation in the air was palpable. The road ahead was fraught with mysteries, but Lyon and his companions were ready to face them head-on.

The group arrived at the Astra Arcane Auction with anticipation and curiosity. The location was a grand, opulent building that seemed to defy the laws of physics, with spires reaching into the darkened sky and walls adorned with intricate, mystical symbols that pulsed with otherworldly energy.

Outside, a line of carriages and creatures from various realms awaited their turn to enter, creating a bustling atmosphere. Attendees from all corners of the multiverse gathered, each wearing lavish, eccentric outfits and some wore masks that concealed their true identities. The air was thick with an aura of mystique and secrecy, and the surrounding gardens were illuminated by floating orbs of light that added to the enchanting ambiance.

The entrance itself was a massive, arched doorway adorned with glowing runes that seemed to shimmer and change with each passing moment. Guards dressed in elaborate armor stood watch, ensuring that only those with invitations or the right connections could enter.

Under Cecile's suggestion and Lyon's agreement, the group decides to use disguises to blend in at the Astra Arcane Auction. As humans in a realm that likely has diverse and exotic attendees, disguises will help them avoid drawing unnecessary attention and navigate the event more discreetly.

The staff, a fellow demi-human with a wolf tail, approached King Wolfric with a warm smile. His eyes twinkled with recognition as he greeted the king with big pleasantries of words.

"Your Majesty Wolfric! What an honor it is to have you at the Astra Arcane Auction! It's been too long," he exclaimed, his tail wagging slightly in excitement.

"Hahaha, you jest, I was here two days ago," Wolfric laughed with a merry tone.

"Less sun and moon without you makes the auction less exciting," said the staff.

Wolfric further laughed in enjoyment.

As the staff continued, he noticed King Leopold and his daughter, Linnea, standing beside Wolfric. Quickly adjusting his demeanor to accommodate their presence, he offered a deep, respectful bow. "And greetings to you as well, King Leopold and Captain Linnea. Your presence here graces our humble event."

The staff's gaze shifted to Lyon's group, where each member wore a mask that concealed their features. King Wolfric, eager to prevent any awkward misunderstandings, quickly stepped forward and began to explain.

"These are esteemed guests from a distant land," he said with a reassuring smile. "They come from a realm beyond our own, and it's a rare and momentous occasion that they grace us with their presence."

However, before Wolfric could finish his explanation, Lyon interjected with a mischievous grin behind his mask. "His Majesty's friend from a far, far land," he added, emphasizing the mysterious and distant nature of their origins.

The staff member, though a bit puzzled by Lyon's cryptic remark, nodded in understanding. "Ah, I see," he replied, though curiosity sparkled in his eyes. "Well, you are all most welcome here at the Astra Arcane Auction. Please, follow me inside."

As they continued to follow the staff through the elegant corridors of the Astra Arcane Auction house, the staff turned to King Leopold and asked if he would prefer a separate room.

Leopold, however, declined the offer with a polite nod. "I'm here to accompany King Wolfric and our esteemed guests," he stated simply, indicating his desire to remain with the group.

Wolfric, appreciating the gesture, offered a warm smile before posing a question of his own. "By the way," he inquired, "is the owner present in this branch tonight?"

The staff paused for a moment as if carefully considering his response. "I'm not entirely certain," he replied cautiously, "but I believe there's a possibility. The owner occasionally attends these events but keeps a low profile. This way, please."

Upon reaching one of the exclusive rooms upstairs, Lyon's group found themselves in an extravagant and spacious chamber. The opulence of the surroundings was evident, with finely crafted furniture and tasteful decor adorning the room. A layer of thin paper provided them with privacy, concealing their faces from those below and in neighboring rooms. Despite the cover, they had an unobstructed view of the entire auction house, particularly the grand podium at the center.

From their vantage point, they could see the auction in full swing. The hall was filled with an air of anticipation as various rare and mystical items were presented. The auctioneer's voice echoed through the chamber as bidders competed for these treasures. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and intrigue, and Lyon and his companions couldn't help but be drawn into the spectacle.

King Wolfric, who was familiar with the proceedings, watched with interest, while King Leopold maintained his characteristic air of quiet observation. Selena, Cecile, Kesya, and Karina exchanged glances, their faces concealed behind their masks. It was a night filled with possibilities, and they were eager to see what secrets the Astra Arcane Auction might hold.

Lyon was bored, and his eyes closed as the auctioneer continued with the various items on display. Each one fetched astronomical prices, and Lyon's mind began to wander. His eyelids grew heavy as the auctioneer announced and reminded the would-be buyers that the last item is always mysterious. It was a book, an ancient one with an engraving of an Owl on it. Their appraisal couldn't discern what it was for, but the radiation of strange energy seemed to circulate the book.

The auctioneer teased, "Perhaps one of them could unravel the secret or, just another collection for their empty display case waiting at home."

However, Lyon's dreamy state was abruptly interrupted as the bottom half of a woman's face, smiling at him, appeared in his mind's eye. She spoke softly, "Open your eyes."

Startled, Lyon obeyed the mysterious voice and opened his eyes. As he did, his eyes grew wider and wider as he saw the item being presented on the auction floor. His lips gaped in awe. Beside him, Cecile and Selena mirrored his astonishment.

With a furrowed brow, Lyon turned to Wolfric and spoke urgently, "Wolfric, get that book for me, whatever the cost."

Wolfric hesitated for a moment, about to protest that the book's price might be exorbitant, but one look from Lyon silenced him.