The separation between commoners and nobility suddenly felt trivial as I observed their reactions, curiosity, and genuine human expressions.
The auctioneer continued with his introductions, highlighting some of the notable attendees, including influential mages, renowned craftsmen, and esteemed scholars. The atmosphere in the room buzzed with excitement, and I couldn't help but be drawn into the anticipation of the upcoming auction.
As the spotlight shifted back to the stage, the auctioneer raised his hands, signaling for silence. The room gradually quieted down, and he began showcasing the first item up for bidding—an intricately crafted magical staff with runes glowing softly.
The bidding war commenced, and even with the awkward situation I was in, I found myself engrossed in the process. It was fascinating to witness the negotiations, the subtle nods, and gestures that conveyed a bidder's intentions. I was learning not just about the items being auctioned but also about the dynamics of this social gathering.
I must say, I got to know these two royals quite well actually. They were surprisingly friendly I suppose. Princess Aurora also said she is my senior in the Central Academy, so I'm glad to know at least someone in the academy I would be attending. And the King literally spoke with me as if I were his equal. I thought all nobles and royals were pampered and moronic; seems I shouldn't judge a book by its cover.
The Auction was proceeding smoothly as amidst one of the bids, King Arthur leaned in and whispered, "Enjoying yourself, Little Ryan?"
"Yes, Your Majesty. This is a unique experience for me," I replied, still trying to grasp the reality of sitting between royalty at such an event.
Princess Aurora, who seemed genuinely interested in the proceedings, joined the conversation. "Are you planning to bid on anything, Ryan?"
"I... I hadn't thought about it, Princess. I'm more here to observe," I admitted.
"That's a wise choice for your first time. Bidding can be quite competitive," King Arthur chuckled.
Throughout the auction, I couldn't shake off the feeling that there was more to King Arthur and Princess Aurora than met the eye. The initial sadness I sensed in the King lingered, and I wondered about the story behind it. Maybe I wanted to get to know them both better. However, I refrained from prying, respecting their privacy, as I have already got my own confusions.
"Should I ask the King straight about the pendant and the black badge?" I thought to myself as I patted my magical beast partner.
"Kyu? Papa, you haven't been yourself lately? What's going on?" Ku asked as his head turned towards me and leapt to my right shoulders.
"Nothing little guy. I'm just having confusion about things, that's all!" I said to him with a gentle smile.
"Kyu.." Ku purred as he gradually climbed up my head and took his seat with a nod.
Just asking him about my mother would be preferable, but what if he were to be my enemy? I'm not strong enough to take on the whole royal family by my current strength.
The internal conflict within me grew as the auction proceeded. On one hand, I yearned for answers regarding my past, my mother, and the significance of the pendant and black badge of the royal family. On the other hand, I hesitated to bring up these personal matters, especially considering the delicate position I found myself in—surrounded by nobility and royalty.
"Sighs," I sighed as I decided not to ask these questions for now. Considering I had to attend a prestigious academy from tomorrow onwards, and if I were to be deemed as an enemy now, without the power to defend myself, I might get into problems while involving my father, my adoptive mother, Uncle George, the people who helped me get here.
While I was thinking that, the auction progressed, and the items presented became increasingly extraordinary—enchanted jewelry, ancient spell books, weapons, and even magical beasts. The bids reached staggering amounts, showcasing the wealth and influence of the attendees.
When an exquisite sword was unveiled, Princess Aurora's eyes lit up with excitement. "That's magnificent! Father, can we bid on that?"
King Arthur chuckled, "Aurora, you have more than enough swords. We're here for something special."
A large hand lightly squeezed my shoulder. "Ryan. Are you enjoying the auction?" Mr. Adler asked in a whispered way, since I was sitting in between two important figures of this Kingdom. Heck, I could see his neck sweating buckets.
With an awkward smile, "Yes, Uncle Adler. Thank you." I said as I turned my attention to the item being auctioned off. He did introduce me to the King as his nephew, so, I had to continue the play.
The auction continued, and I marveled at the diversity of magical items displayed. It was a far cry from the war-torn auctions I had attended in my past life. Here, the focus was on luxury, rarity, and the magical arts.
As the final item, an ancient grimoire containing lost spells, was presented, the atmosphere grew even more intense. The bids soared, and I couldn't help but be captivated by the passion and desire emanating from the bidders.
In the end, the grimoire was acquired by an elderly mage who seemed overjoyed by his purchase. The auction concluded with a round of applause, and the attendees gradually dispersed.
Sir Adler asked me to wait outside as he had something to do. So, as I prepared to leave the VIP room, King Arthur and Princess Aurora stood, stretching a bit after the lengthy event. "Well, Ryan, did you find the auction intriguing?" King Arthur inquired.
"I did, Your Majesty. It was a unique and eye-opening experience," I replied, still processing the grandeur of the event.
Princess Aurora smiled, "Maybe next time you'll join the bidding, Ryan. It can be quite thrilling."
"Perhaps, Princess. Thank you for the suggesti-," just as I was about to express my gratitude,
"Just call me Sister, Ryan," Princess Aurora said with a smile as she patted my shoulder.
Well, she was acting quite a bit friendly and in a sisterly demeanor while I was sitting here. I suppose, but is it something I can do?
"Should I though?" I smiled while scratching my head.
"Why not?" She said as she just knocked my head softly and continued, "It's weird, but if I were to have a little brother, he would be like you..." She said with her cheerful expression changing to sadness.
Seeing her like that made me sad too. So, what the heck, I might as well call her sister.
"Okay! Sister Aurora then..!" I replied with a cheerful smile.
I did feel happier while calling her that.
Just as I called her my sister, she looked my face with her eyes brimmed with tears and she just smiled. Not sure why, but I felt happy too.
I turned my gaze to the King as I was talking to Sister Aurora here. He just gave me a gentle smile, and he walked towards me.
"Seeing you has filled a certain sadness inside of me, and I genuinely enjoyed getting to know you. In the future, if you need any help at all, don't hesitate to reach me," King Arthur said as he retrieved a Black Badge, just like the one I have from his spatial ring, and handed it to me. "With this badge, you can reach me anytime, no matter the place I was in!" he said.
Should I take this?
I smiled, "Thank you, Your Majesty. I appreciate your kindness!" I said as I accepted the Black Badge he gave me and acted as if nothing mattered.
I should hold on to this for now.
After that, I noticed Ku was already asleep while making himself comfortable in my head.
I walked out with King Arthur and Sister Aurora as they left the Auction house with their guards after Mr. Adler came and escorted them to their carriages.
Seeing them both go, I wished to meet them again sometime.