The atmosphere aboard the Obsidian Star was thick with anticipation. From the viewing deck, Orion watched as countless starships descended toward the floating continent of Orialis—home of the Celestial Auction. A confluence of elites, empires, and entities from across the quadrant had gathered for this once-in-a-cycle event. Deals worth planetary systems would be struck in whispered corners; fortunes would be made—or shattered.
Beside him, Xelara adjusted the collar of her ceremonial cloak, the deep azure fabric lined with star-thread that shimmered like a nebula. "Orion," she murmured, "are you ready? This isn't just an auction—it's a battlefield. And the stakes are cosmic."
Orion exhaled slowly. "I've crossed galaxies, bartered with gods, and walked through realms that defied logic. Let's see what their 'auction' has to offer."
