The man stopped at the center of the stage. His gaze swept across the entire arena—from the ground-level seats to the highest balcony where the VIPs sat.
"Welcome, everyone. My name is Wei Liang, and I will be your auctioneer for this year's Arcteron Annual Auction."
His voice was calm but resonant, echoing through the cylindrical hall with authority. The dark robes with bronze accents he wore billowed slightly with his elegant steps as he moved across the main stage.
"The rules remain the same as in previous years. Please refer to your entry cards for the full details," he continued, then cast a subtle glance around the crowd, his smile carrying an unspoken warning.
He paused on a few specific guests before adding, his tone layered with meaning, "On this island, there are no social hierarchies. Whoever holds the wealth… rules."
That smile widened, this time with a sharper edge—a veiled reminder to those used to wielding power through name and lineage.
