Nightmare Paradise : Starting as a Doctor

Chapter 141: Into the Heart of the Auction House

Lynn stared up at the auction house, meticulously observing its two entrances. One had a long zigzagging queue stretching down the street, filled with a mix of eager individuals waiting to enter.

At its head stood an attendant checking documents and marking things off on a clipboard. Occasionally, he would wave the next group forward, sending a ripple of movement down the line as people shuffled ahead.

Lingering outside were those who lacked the means or status to enter the building. They anxiously milled about, unsuccessfully trying to find gaps or take advantage of any lapse in security to sneak in unnoticed.

The other entrance was sparsely occupied, marked by a prominent 'VIP' sign. Two towering men stood guard on either side, bulges beneath their jackets hinting at the heavy firepower concealed within.

Wheels started turning rapidly in Lynn's mind as he focused his gaze on this scene. The small black card with a fully bloomed rose etched across its surface suddenly felt heavy in his pocket.

After a moment of contemplation, a decision was made. With steady and measured steps, he marched straight up to the exclusive entrance. The guards' stone-cold eyes behind dark sunglasses instantly settled upon him as he approached, sizing him up silently.

"Hold on right there," one of them growled, authority ringing in his deep voice. His hand tightened on the hidden firearm. "This is an invitation-only access point. You can't enter without proper authorization."

Lynn met their scrutinizing looks unflinchingly, his posture exuding confident air. Stopping before them, he reached into his cloak and produced the black card, holding it between two fingers.

"I believe this will grant me access," he declared calmly. The two individuals glanced at each other briefly before the one who spoke earlier took the invitation, inspecting it closely.

When he saw the intricate silver rose, his brows furrowed ever so slightly. This didn't go unnoticed by Lynn, who was closely observing their minute reactions and expressions.

"Oi, go inform the boss about this. We got someone here with a rose invitation card," the man barked gruffly. His companion nodded and sprinted off swiftly toward the interior of the renovated factory structure.

Lynn stood there calmly as several minutes ticked by at an agonizing pace. His muscles tensed beneath his veil, prepared to spring into action at the slightest hint of deception or danger.

After what felt like an eternity, hurried footsteps approached from within the building. The other guard reappeared, slightly out of breath from sprinting to deliver the message and back. Trailing closely behind him was another man.

This new arrival wore an expensive suit, tailored to fit his lean frame perfectly. His jet-black hair was slicked back neatly, framing sharp features. But this overall impression of elegance was ruined by a jagged scar that marred one of his cheeks, which lent him a sinister air.

However, his expression didn't match the severity and coldness of his appearance. Instead, nervous eyes and a flattering smile played at the corners of his lips as he quickly approached.

The man walked up to Lynn, giving a slight bow. "Welcome, esteemed guest! Please accept my apologies for the delay and inconvenience. I am the manager of this establishment, my name is Jonah."

Lynn raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the unexpected reception. This overreaction only meant that this manager knew what was going on with the invitation card.

"No harm done," he responded evenly after a pause, maintaining his impassive and calm tone. "I appreciate you taking the time to greet me personally. It is a busy night for you, I'm sure."