Lulu visibly recoiled, her playful demeanor instantly vanishing as she registered the chilling intensity in Echinacia's gaze. The shift was so abrupt, so unexpected, that Maxwell, still giggling from being tossed onto the bed, momentarily paused in his excitement.
"Ssister Lulu?" he stammered, his eyes wide with a mixture of confusion and apprehension.
Echinacia's expression softened slightly as she looked down at her little brother. The icy aura dissipated, replaced by a gentle warmth that only he seemed to elicit. She carefully lifted him off the bed and into her arms, cradling him close.
"Just kidding, silly," she said with a playful wink, though a hint of steel remained in her voice.
"Lulu is a good friend and she wouldn't do anything to hurt you. Anyway Lulu why did you call me?" Echinacia said.
"There is an auction at a club and they are selling the herb you been looking for it will be auction off tonight at 12:00 am at midnight."
Echinacia's eyes narrowed, a flicker of interest sparking in their depths. The herb Lulu mentioned was no ordinary plant; it was a rare and potent substance known for its exceptional healing properties. In her previous life, Echinacia had encountered it only once, and its effects had been nothing short of miraculous.
She glanced at the clock, noting the time. Midnight was still a few hours away, but she knew she couldn't afford to be late. This could be her chance to acquire a valuable asset that could prove invaluable in the future.
"I see," she said slowly, her mind already racing with possibilities.
"Thank you for letting me know, Lulu. I'll make sure to attend."
She paused, considering her next words carefully.
"Maxwell come with me," Echinacia said as she changed into ripped jeans a white shirt she tied and she tied her hair in two ponytails. After she was done and grabbed her backpack and one of the ribbon which was pink and tied it around her neck.
The two walked outside the grudge door and she grabbed her motorcycle and the two of them went off to the auction house.
The roar of Echinacia's motorcycle cut through the quiet night, its headlights illuminating the winding road ahead. Maxwell clung tightly to her back, his small hands gripping her waist as they sped towards the auction house. The wind whipped through their hair, carrying with it the scent of rain and distant city lights.
Echinacia expertly navigated the curves, her movements fluid and precise. She was a skilled rider, a skill honed during countless latenight adventures in her past life. As they approached the auction house, a sprawling mansion bathed in an eerie glow, she slowed down and pulled over to the side of the road.
"Are you scared Maxwell?" Echinacia asked as she patted his head.
"No! I love riding with you sister!" Maxwell said as he grinned and he hugged his sister.
Echinacia walked inside with her brother as she held Maxwell hand Lulu a girl with red hair who is twenty years old screamed out.
"Ahhh darling! Heheh look at you!" Lulu said as she tried to kiss Echinicia who pushed Lulu face away.
"You are so aloof and cold hearted yet so innocent and clueless!" Lulu whined and hooked her arm around Echinicia.
"Ahhh Maxwell! You are so adorable!" Lulu shouted and pitched Maxwell face.
"Sister Lulu!" Maxwell said as he grabbed a milk box and took a long sip.
The Moon Light Auction House was a spectacle of opulence and extravagance. Stepping inside felt like entering another world, one dripping with wealth and shrouded in an air of hushed exclusivity. The grand hall was cavernous, its high ceilings adorned with glittering chandeliers that cast a warm, golden glow upon the scene.
A sweeping marble staircase led to a raised platform where the auctioneer stood poised, ready to command the attention of the assembled guests. Rows upon rows of plush velvet chairs faced the stage, occupied by elegantly dressed individuals – socialites, business tycoons, and influential figures from across the city.
The walls were lined with priceless artwork ancient sculptures, vibrant paintings, and rare artifacts each piece meticulously illuminated to showcase its beauty and value. Tables laden with champagne and hors d'oeuvres were scattered throughout the hall, offering a constant stream of refreshments for the attendees.
"I couldn't get us the upstairs the top floor sorry big boss sis!" Lulu said. Echinacia was indifferent about it she didn't care about this she just smiled and she shook her head and dismissed the top floor. She walked up the steps and she sat down she wore her base cap and she clicked her lips as she looked at her cup she was in Manchester City as she drink she looked at the stage where the hostess stepped forward she was a beautiful woman she cleared her throat.
"Before we start we have three simple rules if you break these three rules you will be banished and blacklisted, I am the Hostess Emily. I will tell you the three rules," Hostess Emily said.
The elegant hostess, Emily, commanded the attention of the room with her poise and grace. Her voice carried a hint of authority as she began to outline the rules for the evening.
"Firstly," she began, her gaze sweeping across the crowd.
"All bidding must be conducted through our designated representatives. No direct communication with the auctioneer or staff will be tolerated."
She paused, allowing her words to sink in before continuing.
"Secondly, all transactions must be settled in full and immediately following the close of each lot. We accept only cryptocurrency or certified bank transfers."
Her eyes narrowed slightly as she delivered the final rule.
"And lastly, and most importantly," Emily's voice took on a stern tone.
"And lastly, and most importantly," Emily's voice took on a stern tone.
"What happens within these walls stays within these walls. Discretion is paramount. Any breach of confidentiality will result in severe consequences."
She surveyed the room, her gaze lingering on each attendee briefly, as if daring anyone to challenge her.
"Now, without further ado, let us begin the auction."
With a graceful gesture, she stepped aside, allowing the auctioneer to take center stage. The room buzzed with anticipation as the first lot was brought forth – a rare, ancient artifact that sparkled under the bright lights.
Echinacia watched the proceedings with a detached interest, her fingers absently tracing the rim of her glass. Maxwell sat beside her, his eyes wide with wonder at the opulence surrounding him. Lulu leaned in close to Echinacia, whispering excitedly about the various lots up for bid.