TBATE | Timeless Bonds

Chapter 18

A/N: I don't have much time to write quality chapters right now so I'll be switching to weekly releases. 

Next chapter next Wednesday.

***

"Ladies and Gentlemen! It is the highest honor for me to be here tonight!" the auctioneer announced, his voice booming with excitement. "All of you are gathered for one reason and one reason only, I presume? To obtain the rare and valuable treasures in this auction!"

Thunderous applause erupted from the audience, eager for the event to begin.

"If I may direct your attention to the upper back room, we have some exceedingly important figures gracing us with their presence tonight. Please join me in welcoming the King and Queen of Sapin and their counterparts from Elenoir!" The auctioneer performed an elegant bow, and the audience followed suit, lowering themselves in respectful reverence, as they couldn't kneel in their seats.

The Kings and Queens stepped forward, waving gracefully through the glass window with practiced ease.

"And now, the man who made this entire event possible—Vincent Helstea!" The crowd responded with enthusiastic applause as Uncle Vincent approached the window alongside the Kings and Queens, offering a deep bow in acknowledgement.

I stayed seated, gazing down at the crowd. They were supposed to be of a much higher class than me, but I couldn't help viewing them through a different lens.

No... I shouldn't think like that. My reign as king ended long ago. I haven't even gone through puberty yet. No point in pretending to be someone who no longer exists.

After the auction began and a few items cycled through, a large hand gently squeezed my shoulder. "Arthur, a sword's up for auction. Let me know if you want it and I'll put in a bid. Don't worry about the price—perks of being the owner," Uncle Vincent whispered into my ear with a grin.

"Thanks." I said, turning my attention to the auctioneer.

"This short sword was forged by a master smith and lightning deviant artificer, ensuring top-tier quality. The core of the weapon is made from a Thunder Hawk mana beast. When infused with mana, the blade generates currents of electricity, enhancing its cutting power and delivering a mild paralyzing effect! Bidding starts at fifty gold!"

Excited murmurs spread through the crowd as noble boys eagerly tugged at their parents sleeves, urging them to bid. I remained still, propping my head on my hand, stifling a yawn. The large screen magnified the sword for the audience, but despite its features, the blade was unimpressive compared to the weapons I'd wielded in my previous life.

Uncle Vincent shot me hopeful glances, expecting me to show some interest in the coveted item, but I shook my head.

"No worries! That was just the beginning. Let me know if anything catches your eye!" He said as he turned to walk away, but quickly turned back around. "Oh! I almost forgot, I've got the items you requested. I'll have them delivered after the event," he added in a hushed tone.

My attention snapped back to him. "You found the voice-altering mask?"

Just as I finished speaking, Tess, who had been sitting quietly beside me, perked up. Her emerald eyes darted between Uncle Vincent and me, curiosity lighting her face. "Why do you need a voice-altering mask, Art?"

I hesitated for a moment, then leaned closer to her, making sure no one else could hear. "I'm planning on becoming an adventurer soon," I whispered. "But I need to hide my identity so I don't draw unwanted attention to myself or my family. That's why I need the mask."

Tess's eyes widened in excitement. "You're going to become an adventurer?" Her voice trembled with excitement, no doubt imagining coming along with me. "When? Can I come with you?"