Auctioneer (Enthusiastically): "Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished bidders and esteemed guests, gather around as I regale you with the tale of a remarkable artifact that graces our presence tonight – "The Redstone Echo Watch.
Over a century ago, this extraordinary pocket was one of Aria Redstone's possessions. As expected from one of the five divine beings, the watch possesses a rare and coveted ability known as "Time Echo." With this captivating power, it captures and replays past events as holographic echoes, unfolding before your very eyes like shimmering mirages of time.
Adorned with delicate engravings of gears and celestial symbols, the watch is a true testament to the artistry of the ages. Its keeper once wielded its power to unravel the intricacies of the world, analyze enigmatic situations, and uncover the most elusive of clues. Ever since the tragic war, its whereabouts became unknown, leaving its legacy to dwell in the realm of myth and legend. It faded from historical records, whispered of only in hushed tones and the echoes of ancient tales.
Until now.
Tonight, my dear bidders, you have the rare privilege of witnessing its reappearance within the illustrious walls of the Phantom Auction House. Hidden for generations, it now stands before you, shrouded in mystique and awaiting a new guardian.
With utmost care and anticipation, we invite you to place your bids, for this relic of untold power and history carries not just the weight of time, but the promise of unparalleled discovery. The fate of The Redstone Echo Watch is soon to be sealed, and with it, the destiny of the one who shall hold it in their grasp. Will you be the one to possess its secrets, to unlock the echoes of the past, and to embark on a journey that transcends time itself? Let the bidding commence, and may the watch find its rightful keeper once more!"
The auctioneer's voice reverberated through the grand hall, narrating the mesmerizing tale of the Redstone Echo Watch, captivating the attention of the eager bidders. The artifact's secrets were unveiled, its power to capture and replay past events showcased with vivid descriptions. Thaddeus listened intently, his heart racing with anticipation.
Within the hallowed confines of the auction house, the Redstone Echo Watch took on an aura of mystique. Voices rose and fell like the ebb and flow of waves, each bidder vying for possession of the elusive artifact.
"Bid starts at 10,000 gold coins," the auctioneer announced, and immediately, a voice called out from one of the high stands, "15,000!"
"20,000!" another bidder responded, his tone confident and unwavering.
The room crackled with anticipation as bids continued to escalate. "25,000!" "30,000!" "35,000!" The numbers danced like fireflies, illuminating the fierce competition unfolding before Thaddeus.
Thaddeus's heart pounded with excitement and trepidation as the bids climbed higher. Hoping to secure the Redstone Echo Watch, he took a deep breath, readying to raise his paddle and bid 50,000 gold coins. However, a commanding voice boomed through the hall, drowning out all other sounds.
"100,000 gold coins!" The figure in dark, expensive clothing had made his move, shattering the bidding war with a single, exorbitant offer. Gasps rippled through the room, and Thaddeus's heart sank. He knew he couldn't compete with such a staggering bid.
In that moment, the auctioneer glanced toward Thaddeus, the flicker of sympathy in his eyes evident. He gave a subtle shake of his head, acknowledging that the battle was lost. Thaddeus reluctantly lowered his paddle, his dreams of possessing the watch slipping away like sand through his fingers.
The room buzzed with murmurs as the victorious bidder claimed the Redstone Echo Watch. Thaddeus watched as it changed hands, his desire to uncover the truth pulling at him even as the artifact eluded his grasp.
As the wealthy figure left the auction hall, Thaddeus was left standing in the wake of his defeat. Yet, he knew he had to act quickly. With adrenaline coursing through his veins, he followed the man's swift footsteps, desperate to maintain a safe distance and avoid raising any suspicion.
The man climbed into a luxurious carriage, the polished wood gleaming under the soft glow of street lamps. Thaddeus's heart pounded as he saw the figure take a seat inside. Without hesitation, he darted behind a nearby building, searching for a vantage point that would allow him to observe without being noticed.
From the shadows, Thaddeus watched as the carriage's elegant doors closed, sealing the man's identity from prying eyes. The driver, dressed in livery befitting the opulent vehicle, urged the horses forward, and the carriage set off at a brisk pace.
Determined not to lose sight of his target, Thaddeus sprung into action. He moved with the grace of a predator, weaving through the labyrinthine streets to keep pace with the carriage. His heart raced with every turn, every twist in the road that threatened to take the figure out of his line of sight.
As the chase ensued, Thaddeus's mind raced as well, contemplating the reasons behind the man's sudden interest in The Redstone Echo Watch. What secrets did the watch hold that had compelled the wealthy bidder to secure it at such a high price? And how did it connect to the tragic death of his father?
The moonlight played peek-a-boo through the gaps between buildings, casting elongated shadows on the cobblestone streets. Thaddeus knew he had to remain vigilant, for he was on the cusp of uncovering a clandestine world that might hold the answers he sought.