Podgend, shaped under the shadow of the Delta, grappled with weak legal systems and faltering public safety. Yet, amid this instability, Crown Auctions flourished spectacularly, drawing elites from every corner of the globe to spend lavishly at its grand events. The reason was straightforward—here, rare and priceless treasures could be acquired, items unobtainable anywhere else.

Crown Auctions never failed to dazzle and astound. Countless expedition teams had combed treacherous mountains and uncharted wilderness hunting for the elusive Lunathorn in vain, yet Crown Auctions had somehow secured it.

The auction house had once captivated worldwide attention by unveiling an ancient pearl, its current owner unknown.

Attending a Crown Auction was a worthy experience. Even those leaving empty-handed carried memories worth more than gold. Over time, the Crown Auction had become the jewel of Podgend’s social calendar, each event a lavish spectacle.

The ability of Crown Auctions to procure such extraordinary relics spoke volumes about its formidable influence. The enigmatic owner behind these wonders was unquestionably powerful, though their identity remained tightly guarded. Rumors whispered of a prominent figure from the Delta pulling strings, but with so many power players present, no one could say for sure who. Simply put, crossing Crown Auctions was a fool’s game. They held firm principles—no trouble at the auction meant no interference beyond it.

The event was staged aboard the Crown yacht, anchored in the lake’s heart, every four years, following a meticulous ritual.

The venue choice was no accident. Podgend’s lax legal climate gave Crown Auctions a competitive edge, allowing the free trade of items banned elsewhere and sidestepping bureaucratic hurdles.

But such liberty came with risks. Podgend’s volatility and chaotic security made it a powder keg. Here, it was a cutthroat world. Those lacking funds could resort to violence, threatening to turn the auction into a bloodbath.

Thus, the yacht featured a single entry point from shore, where every visitor endured strict security checks to bar dangerous weapons, safeguarding the event from disaster.

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Once the auction ended and bidders safely returned ashore, Crown Auctions disclaimed all responsibility. Exiting Podgend safely with the treasure they had…

Bidding was a personal challenge. Naturally, those flaunting wealth here were no ordinary souls. They arrived backed by elite security details.

Elliana was resolute—this time, she would obtain the Lunathorn. But she faced fierce competition from Blaze Wildfire. If Blaze Wildfire was equally intent, she might face Blaze Wraith head-on, igniting a brutal battle—thus her cautious approach.

Alongside Adah and the Four Guardians, many Thorn Rose operatives remained discreetly stationed nearby.

Upon arrival, they adhered to Crown Auction protocols, passed rigorous security, and boarded the yacht.

Many attendees concealed their true selves, and Elliana was no exception. Clad in simple black with a mask, she veiled her infamous identity as Death Thorn.

Adah and the Four Guardians also wore masks, silent and unobtrusive. Seated in the auction hall, they appeared relaxed but vigilantly scanned the crowd, hoping to spot Blaze Wraith amid the cloaked faces. Blaze Wraith was their main rival. Other factions mattered little. Yet, as the auction began, there was no sign of Blaze Wraith or any suspected Blaze Wildfire affiliates.

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