Chapter 26: The Auction Storm
The Grand Auction had become more than just an event; it was a global phenomenon. Governments, corporations, and individuals of unimaginable wealth had all set their sights on Eternal Dominion, recognizing it as the future of influence and power. The in-game economy surged as the world poured billions of dollars into game currency, preparing for what was now considered the most important auction in virtual history.
Ironshade: The Nexus of Chaos
Ironshade City, already a hub of commerce and power, transformed into a boiling pot of ambition and rivalry. The streets teemed with players and NPC merchants shouting deals and offers, while guild banners fluttered above inns and auction houses. Every corner bustled with activity as the world prepared for the storm of bids that would decide the balance of power.
Liam strolled through the crowded streets, his hood up to avoid unnecessary attention. He'd become a figure of interest lately, especially after listing the Obsidian Core, one of the most valuable items in the game. As he moved, the sounds of conversations around him painted a vivid picture of the frenzy:
"Did you hear? The Obsidian Core is on the list!"
"It's an SS-tier crafting item. The big guilds will kill for it."
"Forget guilds. The tycoons are in on this. One of them bought out half the city's potions already."
"I heard the conversion rate for bronze hit $2 this morning. Insane!"
Liam smirked beneath his hood. The world's desperation was working in his favor. The items he had painstakingly collected over the past weeks were about to fetch him wealth beyond imagining.
The Marketplace Surge
The Ironshade Marketplace had never been this lively. NPC merchants gleefully increased prices, knowing full well that desperate buyers would pay any amount to gain an edge in the auction.
Liam entered the marketplace, his eyes scanning the wares. While others were caught up in the frenzy, Liam was calm and methodical. He wasn't just preparing for the auction—he was preparing for what came after.
[Inventory Update: Purchased Items]
• Greater Healing Potion (x10): 500 Bronze
• Stamina Elixir (x5): 300 Bronze
• Scroll of Dimensional Recall (x1): 1,000 Bronze
• Rare Material Crate (x2): 700 Bronze
The Scroll of Dimensional Recall was the most expensive, but it was also the most vital. It allowed the user to teleport instantly to any previously visited location, a perfect escape tool in a high-stakes scenario.
"Big spender, huh?" a voice said from behind him.
Liam turned to see a player dressed in ornate robes, the emblem of the Steel Syndicate guild emblazoned on his chest.
"What's it to you?" Liam asked, his tone flat.
The player grinned. "Word travels fast in Ironshade. They're calling you the 'Dark Horse of the Auction.' You've got some big items listed. Just a friendly warning—don't bite off more than you can chew."
Liam's gaze hardened. "I'll keep that in mind."
The player chuckled and walked away, but Liam knew the warning was more than just words. The auction was attracting sharks, and they wouldn't hesitate to eliminate competition, even outside the bidding wars.
The Real-World Power Play
Beyond the game, the ripple effects of the auction were staggering. Every major corporation and government was investing heavily, converting billions into in-game currency to secure their place in the digital arms race.
Global News Headline:
"Auction Fever Grips the World: Billionaires and Governments Pour Trillions into Eternal Dominion."
In Silicon Valley, tech mogul Elena Frost had just finalized a deal to acquire 2 million gold coins. She leaned back in her chair, sipping champagne as her team briefed her on the auction strategy.
"Focus on the Obsidian Core," she ordered. "If we get that, our guild can dominate the resource chain for months."
Meanwhile, in Beijing, the Chinese government announced the formation of a National Digital Strategy Division, tasked with ensuring the country's dominance in virtual spaces.
"This is not just a game," Minister Zhao declared at a press conference. "This is the future of global influence. We will not be left behind."
Across the globe, similar sentiments echoed as the auction became a battleground for control and prestige.
The Auction House: A Brewing Storm
The Ironshade Auction House stood as a towering edifice in the heart of the city, its marble halls filled with anticipation. Guards, both NPCs and players, maintained strict order as waves of bidders arrived.
Liam stood at the entrance, observing the crowd. The tension was palpable. He spotted representatives from major guilds, their insignias shining like badges of war. Some carried themselves with the arrogance of untouchable wealth, while others looked nervous, their strategies carefully hidden behind blank expressions.
Inside, the auction house was a marvel of design. Rows of plush seats faced a grand stage where items would be displayed. Holographic projections hovered above, showcasing the most coveted listings, including Liam's Obsidian Core.
[Current Auction Highlights]
• Obsidian Core (SS): Starting Bid – 1,000 Gold
• Dragon's Breath Bow (S): Starting Bid – 500 Gold
• Alchemist's Codex (A): Starting Bid – 200 Gold
Liam took his seat in the back, keeping a low profile. As much as he wanted to observe the competition, he also knew that discretion was his greatest weapon.
Liam's Quiet Confidence
While others scrambled to gather resources and form alliances, Liam felt an unusual sense of calm. His hidden class privileges had already secured him a comfortable lead in the game, and the wealth he was about to amass would only widen that gap.
As he waited for the auction to begin, he opened his player panel to review his stats and inventory one last time:
[Player Panel: Liam's Stats and Inventory]
Class: Primordial Sovereign (EX)
Level: 45
Gold: 18,500
Inventory:
• Obsidian Core (SS) – Auctioned
• Dragonhide Cloak (A)
• Crystal Blade (A) – Equipped
• Greater Healing Potion (x10)
• Stamina Elixir (x5)
• Scroll of Dimensional Recall (x1)
"Let them bid," Liam thought, leaning back in his chair. "When the dust settles, I'll still be ahead."
The Countdown Begins
The sound of a gong echoed through the auction house, silencing the crowd. A regal NPC stepped onto the stage, his golden robes shimmering under the chandelier's light.
"Welcome, adventurers, to the Grand Auction," he announced, his voice carrying a weight of authority. "Tonight, you bid not just with your wealth, but with your ambitions. Let the auction begin!"
The crowd erupted into applause as the first item appeared on the holographic display. The storm had begun, and Liam was ready to ride it.