Chapter 40: The Auction Begins
A week had passed.
It was enough time to figure out who the Ross family really was. Influential, rich, deep ties to magical engineering. Not exactly a surprise, but definitely something that would shape a few things down the line.
Noah didn’t care much. He wasn’t the type to obsess over noble hierarchies or family power plays. But it was useful information. Variables needed to be accounted for, especially now.
They stood in line just outside the auction hall, right in the heart of the city’s richest district. Lampposts carved from enchanted stone lit up the street like a red carpet, and sleek carriages lined the entrance like some kind of royal parade.
Noah adjusted the crimson mask in his hand. His suit was jet black, sharp and minimal.
Next to him, Cordelia turned slightly, letting the fabric of her dress trail behind her. The backless design revealed smooth skin down her spine, contrasted by the high neckline at the front. The cut was sharp, modern—even by Earth’s standards.
She looked over her shoulder. "You like it?"
"It suits you," Noah replied, handing her the navy-blue mask. "Put this on. Almost our turn."
She took it with a smirk, adjusting it over her face.
Noah glanced ahead. Three more pairs left in front of them. "Alright. You remember what we’re here for?"
Cordelia nodded. "Yeah. An item that helped Saphielle Veyren bring her master back to life."