||So, he was here after all. Maybe you did see him, huh? Odd. Why did I not sense him?||
The chubby man led Master Fangluan and Ling Yue through the bustling crowd into a lavishly decorated VIP lounge. Plush couches adorned the room, and attendants were ready to cater to their every need. The atmosphere in the VIP lounge was more refined, with a hint of exclusivity.
"And in here is where you'll be seated. Now, if you don't mind, I'll be taking my leave. A pleasure to have you here," and so the manager went away on his way, rocking down the stairs.
As they settled into their seats, Fangluan leaned over and whispered to Ling Yue, "Keep a keen eye on the items being auctioned. Learn the patterns, observe the bidders, and try to discern their intentions."
Ling Yue nodded, her attention focused on the auction floor, where the host, a charismatic man with a booming voice, began introducing the first item.
