Sorry for all the errors!

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* * *

#TCS44: The Lawless Auction

Honoka Reign's POV

When we were back at Luna's house, everyone was quiet, probably because of exhaustion. A lot has happened tonight. From the happiness, I felt when I was with Rebel, to Ate Amythee's tears, and to Kuya Theon's gunshot. I felt like a week has passed.

Inalalayan ko na lang na maka-upo si Kuya Theon sa sofa sa living room. I noticed how he winced in pain after he sat. Good thing, Justice appeared after fifteen minutes of waiting inside the room. S'ya na mismo ang gumamot kay Kuya Theon at nagtanggal ng bala rito. Laking pasasalamat na lang namin nang matapos 'yun nang maayos.

Ah... hindi talaga gano'n kaayos dahil sa tindi ng sigaw at sakit na nadama ni Kuya Theon. He endured all of it without anesthesia. Goodness, it was horrifying to watch and we really couldn't do anything about it. Parang nabawasan nang ilang taon ang buhay ko nang matapos lahat lahat nang 'yun.

"Amythee..." Mahinang tawag ni Kuya Theon kay Ate nang makita n'ya itong aakyat na sana sa taas.

I distanced myself when Ate looked at Kuya with soft eyes. However, she shook her head lightly. "Not now, Theon..." She whispered and before she avoided his gaze, I saw hesitation, but with Biblee beside her they both went up to the second floor.

I went to the kitchen to get Kuya Theon some water and gave it to him. He looked so lost and defeated. "Magpahinga ka na, Kuya." Sabi ko sa kan'ya at saka ko kinuha 'yung naubos n'yang baso ng tubig. He sighed deeply and I could see his teary eyes.

"Fuck..." He whispered in a tone that almost cracked.

Tinulungan ko s'yang tumayo at gano'n din ang ginawa ni Art at saka namin s'ya inalalayan sa kwarto nila ni Kuya Cleon. Art helped his brother, at kahit inis pa rin si Kuya Cleon sa kakambal dahil sa nangyari tinutulungan pa rin nito ang kapatid.

"Thank you, Honoka..." Art told me sincerely. I smiled faintly at her and answered, "no worries."

"Maiwan ko na kayo, ah? Kapag may kailangan ka, sabihan mo lang ako." I told Art and she nodded at me while conveying her gratitude. Nang makalabas ako sa kwarto ay nakasalubong ko si Harper na mukhang nag-aalala rin.

"How's Theon?" She asked in a little voice.

I sighed. "Not okay at all." Sabay kaming bumababa muli sa living room at do'n nakita si Pierce at Thorn na nakaupo at tulala sa sofa. Sa sobrang dami ba naman kasing nangyari hindi na ako magtatakha na hindi lang pagod ang katawan namin, pati na rin isip.

"Okay lang kayo?" I asked them gently which made them faced me in synch.

"Tired..." Nakangiting sabi ni Pierce.

"Still processing everything..." Thorn retorted with a lazy smile.

Harper and I sat down across them. "What a night." Harper commented as she rested her back on the sofa.

"I still don't think Kuya Theon hurt Ate Amythee intentionally." Thorn allayed.

"But hurting is hurting, with reason or without." Kuya Akira suddenly joined the conversation from behind. He tousled my hair and jumped from the back to sit beside me. He sighed and thought about what happened tonight.

"Yeah, but you know? Wala naman magagawa kung mag-aaway away tayo. Sana pakinggan muna natin ang bawat isa." Piere commented in hopes of making things work. To be honest, this fight causes some rift in our bond. Pretty sure, although we don't mean to... kakampi at kakampi pa rin kami sa isang panig.

"Emotions aren't that easy to control." Kuya Akira answered.

"True... but we should fix this..." Thorn mentioned while sighing.

"Ayaw pa rin kasi magsabi ni Kuya Theon eh." Mahinang sabi ko naman sa kanila. On our way home, I tried to ask Kuya why he did that, and told him that he should fix things with Ate Amythee. But he only remained silent. Hindi ko rin mabasa kung anong nasa isip n'ya.

"You know guys, just listen to Theon." Harper piped in gently, which made my brows furrowed. I was sure Harper would immediately throw a fit knowing what happened to Ate Amythee, she might be the first one to punch Kuya Theon. Hmm...

"Ewan ko ba, basta, sana naman maayos na." Sukong sabi ni Pierce at saka napatingin sa ilaw sa living room.

Ilang saglit lang habang nag-uusap usap kaming lima ay dumating si Luna at Justice. Sabay sabay kaming napalingon sa kanila at ngumiti ang mga ito. Nanibago rin ako dahil hindi gano'n ka-jolly si Luna. Lagi kasing maatas ang energy n'yan eh kahit anong mangyari. Kaso... I realized how serious things are... looking at her. She might be smiling but I could feel deep inside she's worried for us.

"All of you should rest and sleep now. You have a mission tomorrow." Luna told us calmly.

"Yeah, we should." Thorn agreed and we all started to go up to the second floor in our respective rooms. Hindi na rin ako gano'ng nagsalita at sumunod na lang sa gusto nila. Nang makarating din sa kwarto, nag-shower muna ako bago nagbihis nang pantulog.

Humiga ako sa kama at nag-try na ipikit ang mga mata baka sakaling dalawin nang antok kaso hindi nangyari. I was wide awake. My mind was wide awake. Lumabas ako sa kwarto at dumiretso na lang ako sa balcony dahil ayoko namang magising si Art sa tabi ko.

I was worried for Rebel.

Nawala na lang s'ya kanina... tapos nabaril pa si Kuya Theon. Is he okay? Goodness, pretty sure he was okay. Hello? He's Rebel. But still... I was worried. Hindi ko alam nangyari matapos n'yang mawala na lang...

"Can't sleep?" Nagulat ako 'nung tumabi sa akin si Pierce.

"Hey..." I greeted. "Bakit gising ka pa?"

"Worried about someone?" He threw back a question. I nodded in defeat. Sinong hindi mag-aalala para sa mga Evans? Justice didn't mention about anything... okay naman siguro sila, medyo hindi lang talaga matahimik ang utak ko.

"Eh, ikaw?"

"Just thinking about things..."

"Para sa mangyayaring auction bukas?"

"Not really. But how can the Evans face danger like it's nothing?" Naramdaman ko ang paglingon n'ya sa akin. Nanatiling akong nakatingin sa mga bituin sa langit. Tahimik na humihiling ng kaligtasan para sa bawat isa.

"Maybe they are dangers themselves." I joked, but I felt a lump on my throat.

Pierce chuckled lightly at my answer. "Strong or not, I'll still worry."

"Kanino ka ba nag-aalala?" I questioned then gazed at him. Napaka-gwapo talaga ng isang 'to. Nagkagirl friend na kaya 'to? I blushed when I realized boyfriend-girlfriend. Oh, my pickles, Honoka! Girlfriend ka na ni Rebel!

OH, MY GOSH! OH, MY PICKLES!

"Eh ikaw?" Hilig magbalik ng tanong ni Pierce. Imbis na sumagot, nanatili na lang akong tahimik nang limang segundo bago nagsalitang muli.

"May gusto ka kay Ate Miracle?" Hindi makapaniwalang tanong ko. I mean... unless... si Law ang gusto n'ya?

Pierce laughter was blown by the cold wind. "Seriously, Honoka?" I shrugged my shoulders. Wait... baka si Rebel? Ano ba 'tong iniisip ko? Hindi porket magandang lalaki 'tong si Pierce, eh lalaki na rin ang hanap.

Sino ba kasi magugustuhan n'ya sa mga Evans? Si Ate Miracle lang naman—WAIT!

"You like Gabby?!" Napatayo ako at saka nanlalaking mata na tiningnan si Pierce.

"Who likes Pateh?" Halos mapatalon ako bigla sa gulat nang ibang boses ang narinig kong sumagot sa sinabi ko. Pierce was jaw dropped when I pointed at him when Rebel faced me after asking that question.

Rebel looked at Pierce with a dangerous gaze, and then back at me. After that I realized that I am pointing at Pierce. "I mean—no? Who likes Gabby? Do you like Gabby?" Nalilitong tanong ko naman kay Pierce at Rebel.

Goodness! Masyado kasi akong ginulat ni Rebel na hindi ko na rin maintindihan 'yung tanong ko at saka 'yung mga sinasabi ko.

"I like Gabby?" Turo naman ni Pierce sa sarili n'ya na mukhang gulat at hindi na rin maintindihan ang mga nangyayari.

"May gusto ka kay Pateh?" Madiing tanong ni Rebel.

"Yeah?" Hindi rin siguradong sagot ni Pierce na mukhang natakot sa pag-abante ni Rebel kaya napa-atras s'ya. Samantalang ako naman ay papalit-palit ng tingin sa kanilang dalawa. Kinakabahan din sa maaring reaksyon ni Rebel.

Pero seryoso? May gusto si Pierce kay Gabby? HUH? Teka bakit ba gulong-gulo ako? Panira naman kasi 'tong si Rebel eh! Bigla bigla na lang nasulpot kung kailan hindi kailangan. Nakakagulo tuloy ng moment!

"Seryoso?" Rebel asked again.

"Yeah." Pierce replied more surely.

Nagtitigan 'yung dalawa at handa na sana akong umawat sa nangyayari. Kaso biglang umatras si Rebel sa kinatatayuan at saka bumulanghit ng tawa kaya naman natulala kaming dalawa ni Pierce. Grabe 'tong si Rebel? Tuwang tuwa lang?

"HAHAHA! Seriously? You like Pateh? Hahaha!" Rebel could not help but hold his stomach in laughter.

Lumapit na ako sa kan'ya at saka s'ya binatukan. "Huy, anong nakakatawa?" Nagtatakhang tanong ko kaya naman nilingon n'ya ako habang kumakalma mula sa mantinding pagtawa. Samantalang kami ni Pierce? Clueless.

"Si Pierce kasi... magkakagusto na nga lang kay Pateh pa." He's still chuckling but he managed to say it.

"Hindi ka galit?" Takhang tanong ni Pierce.

"Why would I? I thought Pateh would grow old, alone. Welcome to the family!" Then Rebel held Pierce's hands for a handshake while smiling happily. Then he gave him a big pat on the back while laughing.

"She's... too... young..." Mukhang hindi pa rin nag-pra-process kay Pierce ang mga sinabi ni Rebel. Sino ba naman kasi makakagets sa loko-lokong 'to? Bakit ko ng aba 'to sinagot ng oo? Lakas ng trip ngayon eh...

"Goodluck, dude, goodluck. I'll pray for you." Rebel didn't mind what Pierce was saying.

"Huh?"

"Gabby's a headache."

"Eh?"

"Gabby is Gabby you know." Then he chuckled again and hugged Pierce again.

"Rebel..." I called, then he immediately went near me and snaked his arms around my waist. Then Rebel threw something a Pierce, which the latter caught. He looked at it confusingly. Still puzzled with how the conversation is going.

"You can call Gabby." Rebel shrugged his shoulders. Pierce stared at Rebel for a minute, then at his arms, then at me. And after gazing upon us with an open mouth, he smiled and waved the phone at us, then marched out of the balcony.

"What the heck was that?" I asked unbelievably after Pierce left.

Rebel shrugged. "Me giving Pierce advise?" Kaagad kong sinuntok ng pabiro si Rebel sa tyan dahil sa pinagsasabi n'ya. Ang ganda namang advise no'n? Ni hindi nga yata matatawag na matinong usapan 'yon?

At saka grabe 'yung pag-aalala ko sa kan'ya. Hindi naman pala n'ya kailangan, tss.

Naglakad ako malapit sa badirilya ng balcony at saka niyakap ang sarili dahil sa malamig na ihip ng hangin. I felt Rebel's presence followed me. Then suddenly I was embraced by his warm hug from the back.

I felt him kissed the top of my head. "Are you... okay?" He asked carefully and gently. I only nodded. I was supposed to be the one who inquiries about that. "I'm sorry, I just left earlier. It was urgent." I nodded again.

"I understand..."

"I'll always be safe, and will be back to you no matter what."

"I'd take that as a promise."

"It will be my promise, Reign."

Kahit papa'no napanatag ang puso ko dahil do'n. I couldn't help but worry everytime, but I'll hold on to that promise always. Because Evans? They keep their promises. They won't break it. I trust them... I trust him.

"You will be at the auction tomorrow?" He asked then I felt his head rested on my shoulder. Itinagilid ko rin ang ulo ko sa kan'ya. I heard him smile and sniffed my scent.

"Oo. Ikaw? May misyon ka rito sa school? Haharapin mo ang Senses?" Hindi mapigilang tanong ko.

"Not really, the Senses are the Crowns job. We have another one to do."

"Ano 'yun?"

"You should be careful tomorrow. I will not be there to watch over you." Ang talino talaga nila mag-iba ng usapan kapag ayaw nila sagutin ang isang bagay. Tss. Kaya ang hirap kumuha ng kahit anong impormasyon sa kanila eh. They will never be caught off guard.

"You should also take care." I retorted and I felt him nod.

"Finally, home..." He murmured as he hugged me tighter and snuggled closer.

* * *

Amythee Hope's POV

"Ready?" Tanong ni Luna sa amin matapos naming bumababa sa living room. We are all dressed in black and white formally. Gowns pa rin pero hindi na ganoon kabongga katulad kahapon. Mas mukhang formal na ngayon.

"Caerus will still be with you. You should still be extra careful, got it?" Justice told us and we all nodded. I took a deep breath. We should succeed on this one. Inaasahan nila kami, hindi pwedeng papalpak kami rito.

Ang dami na nilang kailangan gawin dahil sa nangyari sa party kagabi, hindi naman pwedeng pati ito maging pabigat pa rin kami. Hindi ko sila bibiguin, gagawin ko ang lahat para magtagumpay kami sa mission na 'to.

"Good luck, pasaways." Kinawayan kami ni Luna at saka proud na proud kaming tiningnan. I smiled at her too, because I think she convinced the Evans to let us handle the auction. Pretty sure, the Evans wouldn't want us to be out of their sight after what happened.

"Then the game is on!" Masayang sabi naman ni Biblee at saka kami isa-isang lumabas ng bahay para sumakay sa sasakyang inihanda ni Luna at Justice para sa amin. Biblee never left my side, and I was beyond thankful for real.

Nauna kaming sumakay sa sasakyan at saka sumunod si Pierce, Thorn at si Honoka. Kaya naman nakahinga ako ng maluwag. At least, hindi namin makakasama sa kotse si Theon. Hindi ko pa rin kasi kayang harapin. Natatakot pa rin ako, nasasaktan...

I cried to sleep last night, and Biblee hugged me tight and made me feel I was not alone. Kaya naman sobra sobra talaga pagmamahal ko sa kapatid ko na 'to.

Umandar na rin ang sasakyan at tahimik lang kaming lima. Walang nagtangkang magsalita, kaya naman tinanaw ko na lang 'yung dinadaanan namin. At saka paminsan-minsang napapabuntong hininga.

Ewan ko ba naman kasi sa 'yo Amythee. Ano ba namang pumasok sa isip mo kagabi, at nangyari 'yon... Tss. Ayan tuloy nagkagulo ang barkada dahil sa 'yo, apektado ang lahat. Tapos nagkaro'n pa ng pag-atake mula sa kalaban. Kahit kailan talaga mapakaswerte mo.

I thought everything was fine... but I was too caught up in the moment. I felt the happiest when our lips touched... but was shattered to pieces right after when I heard him uttered her name... why does it have to be her?

Wala akong laban sa kan'ya... at hindi ko rin magagawang ipaglaban ang nararamdaman ko kung s'ya rin lang ang kalaban ko... Nakakapanghina, nakapanglumo.

I basically confessed that I like Theon last night with my actions and my emotions. Matalino naman s'ya ah... alam kong alam n'ya na 'yung nararamdaman ko kaya hindi ko rin alam bakit gano'n ang kilos n'ya sa akin.

Nakakalito!

Kaninang umaga panay ang hanap n'ya ng tiyempo para kausapin ako. I could see in his eyes that he wants to talk to me... that he's hurt, that he wanted to explain. But, why would he? He blatantly rejected me, right?

Psh! Kung pwede lang talaga irapan s'ya at saka ko i-flip nang bongga buhok ko sa kan'ya, para mamatay s'ya sa kaiisip, nagawa ko na! Kaso, marupok kasi ako, kaya hindi ko man lang magawa-gawa 'yun.

Ni makita nga lang s'ya kagabing mabaril eh akala mo naman handa nang maghanda ng burol ang reaksyon ko! Kamusta naman 'yon? Ganito rin ba karupok si Nanay kay Tatay? Parang hindi naman... kanino ba ako nagmana? Nakakainis na.

Napa-iling iling na lang ako at saka marahang sinapok ang sarili. Gising na Hope. Tama na 'yung asa. Tama na 'yung love life iniisip mo. Nasa panganib na nga kayo, 'yun pa rin ba uunahin mo? Mabuti sana kung multi-tasker ka, eh, hindi naman. Tsk!

Dahil sa dami nang iniisip ko, medyo inantok ako kaya naman naramdaman ko na lang ang pagpikit ng mga mata ko.

I WOKE UP when I heard Biblee calling me. "Ate Hopie... tinitingnan ka ni bwisit na Theon."

Napa-upo kaagad ako nang ayos at saka napahawak sa labi ko, mahirap na mamaya may tuyong laway pa ako! At saka ko lang tiningnan ang paligid matapos no'n. Ayon! Ayon na naman 'yung baliw kong kapatid na tinatawanan ako.

"Wow, kakalimutan na raw, pero grabe parang si The Flash mag-ayos." She continued to tease, I glared at her angrily, but she just laughed it off. Even Thorn and Pierce chuckled with Biblee's antics. Psh! If I know she just wanted me to laugh too.

"Baliw ka talaga." IIling iling na sabi ko. I sighed and inhaled deeply.

We went down one by one and we were surprised to see the place. Wow. It's so huge and bright! Sobrang ganda! It's a huge building, almost like a sky scraper. I bet it have almost more than fifty floors. And the lights are blinding! Parang may fashion show nagaganapin.

Beside that was a huge river or lake. With majestic boats, yachts and lights all over the place. It felt like we are in a different country. Napapanganga ka na lang sa mga makikita mo. Hindi mo aakalain na nandito ka sa lugar.

"Sosyal, may pa-red carpet pa!" Biblee exclaimed and Honoka giggled when she heard my sister's comment.

Inilabas ko mula sa purse na hawak ko ang invitation. Gano'n din ang ginawa nina Biblee at isa-isa kaming lumapit sa guard. Dumaan muna kami sa parang metal detector or kung ano man at saka kami kinapkapan 'nung mga guard. Sobrang dami munang chineck sa amin, at napakarami naming pintong dinaanan bago pa kami makapasok sa loob nang mismong building.

Pakiramdam ko halos fifteen minutes' din kaming chine-check bago tuluyang makapasok. Sobrang higpit. Then add the uniformed guards walking and standing all over the place. Wow. It's just... a big event.

I thought it would be more like a discreet and secret event, I didn't know it would be this... huge.

We walked towards the hall and there we saw different people. High class people. Richness and extravagance screamed in the whole place. The ladies were dressed with fancy huge gowns and headdresses. The gentlemen were wearing expensive and branded suits and tuxedos. It was... jaw dropping.

Mayaman naman kami... pero pakiramdam ko hindi sapat 'yung yaman namin sa mga nakikita ko rito. Wow. I mean... these people. Different nationalities, and different cultures, all in one place. For an auction.

Hindi lang mismo 'yung mga mismong guests ang nandito, nandon din ang mga guard na mismong kasama nila at hindi mga guard na makikita mo na naka-assign place na 'to. Kakaibang kaba 'yung bumalot sa puso ko.

"The auction will start in thirty minutes." I heard Biblee whispered to me. I nodded to her. When the waiter passed by with white wine, I got one for myself. Sinimsim ko ang wine na 'yun para mawala nang kaunti ang kabang nararamdaman.

While we are looking, and familiarizing ourselves with the guests, the other group arrived. Harper and Art greeted Biblee and I. We also tried to look at other people to check if there are any danger. But luckily, I didn't feel any hostile intentions.

"Hey, Caerus will meet us one by one to give us some treats before going to the main hall for the start of the auction." Bulong sa akin ni Biblee nang matanaw ko na umalis si Pierce sa lugar para lumabas. Napatango naman ako dahil do'n marahil ay papunta na ito kay Caerus ngayon.

One by one we went to Caerus. Of course, different room each time. We couldn't really bring any guns or knives earlier because of the tight inspection, that's why this is the only time Caerus could give us some weapons. Hindi ko alam pa'no naipasok ni Caerus ang mga 'yon, pero may kutob ako na bago pa man masabi na rito gaganapin ang auction ay nakapagpuslit at nakapagtago na sila ng mga armas.

Although, this is just an auction, Justice still wanted us to have something we could use to protect ourselves. Kung dati tamang pag-iingat lang ang ginagawa nila, ngayon ramdam ko na talaga 'yung panganib dahil inaasahan n'ya na rin kami na makayanang protektahan ang mga sarili.

"Hey." Bati ko kay Caerus nang makita ko itong nakatayo at nakatitig sa malaking bintana at tinatanaw ang syudad mula sa kwartong ito. He turned his back to me, and nodded lightly. Did not even bother to say anything. Typical Caerus. He doesn't really speak that much to us. He kind of feels aloof, studious, and weird.

Dumaan s'ya sa akin at naramdaman ko ang pagpuslit n'ya ng baril sa may kamay ko. I immediately grabbed it while trying to converse. "How are you?" Pasimpleng tanong ko. Iba pa rin kasi 'yung nag-iingat.

The moment I got the gun and put it on the gun holder on my thigh, he offered a hand shake which I accepted with a smile. You'll think it was a simple handshake but he slipped a covered knife in between.

"The auction's gonna be up in a few minutes..." I trailed as he slowly guided me out of the room and put his hand on the small of my back, and of course, he just slowly slipped another weapon from there. Goodness, his nimble and light moves are to die for! You wouldn't even notice anything suspicious in the way he moves! Thank all the luck that he's a Crown and not an enemy.

"Please enjoy the night." Caerus told me with a polite small smile. I nodded lightly.

"Thank you..."

Then after that I walked towards the hallway with bright lights and glittering displays to proceed inside the main hall where the auction will take place. Nang makarating do'n ay mayroong pa ring bantay, ngunit hindi na sila todo mag-check kaya naman nakalampas ako ro'n nang hindi nahuhuli.

The immense resplendent and voluminous crystals of the chandelier in the high ceiling screamed richness and class. Everyone inside looked so sophisticated and grandiose. These people are the high-tiers of them all.

The high circular table were ornately made. It was like made of ice and was sculptured delicately. The icy theme was so... mesmerizing. It was gleaming. I was really astonished with all of the things I am seeing.

I saw Harper and Biblee beside one of the tables. They are just standing around it. Mataas kasi ang mga table at halos kalebel mo na hanggang dibdib o mas mababa lang nang kaunti. Sa ibabaw no'n ay may flower at flower vase na halata mo ring mamahalin. Nakapalibot ang mga tao sa kan'ya-kan'yang table na ganoon. Nag-aantay ng pagsisimula ng auction.

The stage was like a fiery ice theme. Parang may mga ice glazers sa stage pero imbis na icy, more on black ice s'ya. Pagkatapos mayroong maliit na podium na tila gawa sa isang crystal na kulay itim na mayroong parang pulang ilaw sa baba.

"Wow, this place..." Hindi makapaniwalang sambit ko nang makalapit kayna Harper.

"I know right, this is awesome." Harper retorted and we giggled.

"Hindi naman nila sinabi sa akin na ganito rito, e 'di sana nagdala ako ng ice skates." Natatawang biro ni Biblee, kaya naman pinigilan ko tumawa nang malakas. It'll be so unsophisticated and not regal to suddenly do that. Especially, when the atmosphere in here were nothing but formal and lavish.

I saw our gang in different tables scattered around the place. We were grouped by either three, four, or two. And our positions are actually good. My breathing was deep and a little fast because of the coldness in the air, and the nervousness.

We will get the Dragon's Crest no matter what, and we will take the Sinner's Crown.

Hinawakan ko na rin ang number na nasa table at saka humugot nang lakas ng loob. We got this!

The moment I told myself that, I was startled when the bright lights suddenly became dim and only focused on the main stage. Napalunok ako dahil do'n.

"Oh yeah, it's finally starting." Harper smirked so evilly like she was born to do an auction.

Grabe, sana lahat matapang.

A music of suspense also started and every vibration felt like a beat coming from my heart. The atmosphere of abundance, became heavy and fervent. Then the spotlight shined on the middle of the stage near the podium. A man entered and everyone grew quiet.

"Good evening, ladies and gentleman." The man in pure black suit greeted in a deep voice. "This night is a very special night to all of us... so I would like to welcome everyone in this auction." The man smirked and I swear! Shivers travelled in my body. It was so sinister.

People applauded while I was frozen from where I am standing. The menacing energy from the man so strong! Napalingon ako kay Harper at kunot-noo rin itong nakatitig do'n sa lalaki, samantalang si Biblee naman ay nakanganga sa nasaksihan.

Napahawak ako sa kamay ko at naramdam ko ang panlalamig.

The man has black hair which is perfectly parted in the middle, and it was shining like it was full of gel or whatever hair product he used. His eyes were dark as the night and his face looked so clean. He has this commanding and influential aura. He's also wearing black gloves with traces of bloody red crystals on the wrist.

"I would not want to make the agony of waiting any longer, so might as well start the auction." He declared and everyone felt like they were ready to grab and bet anything they have just to get something from this auction.

This auction is not that simple and just for the high-class. This is a dangerous auction if you ask me. Mafias, gangsters, illegal bosses, and underground rulers are in this place. To get exotic, original, and antique items. Whether it was for power, richness, or other intention, they will take what they want. Kaya naman kabado na rin ako, dahil limpak limpak na pera ang mailalabas namin para lang makuha ang mga bagay na kailangan.

I focused my eyes on the stage as an item placed on a high table slowly rose from the floor. It was covered with thick velvet fabric. Everyone anticipated the first item on the table. The man in pure black teased like he was about to unveil it but did not causing an uproar and a little laughter.

"I was kidding, but now let's do this!" He announced as he pulled the fabric covering the item.

Napanganga ako saglit dahil sa nakita. Isa 'yung kwintas na nasa loob ng glass box. It was shining splendidly like a moon light up this necklace. The exquisite and incarnate details was just... jaw dropping.

It was huge golden like with sun rays and in each ray, were extremely detailed carved crystals of emerald.

"Ooh, I want that one..." Harper absentmindedly spoke. Napangiti kaming dalawa ni Biblee. That necklace was just... wow. But unfortunately, that's not our target. The man in front also started describing and explaining about the necklace, then one woman raised her number. Ni hindi man lang hinintay magsalita ng paunang amount 'yung auctioneer.

"Yes, number 40." The auctioneer called.

"1 million." I was speechless when the freaking necklace started at that price. And to think that it was dollars was even freaking insane! Grabe, sa'n nakukuha ng mga taong 'yan ang gan'yang kalaking pera?

Jusko, simula pa lang 'to. H'wag naman sana maghirap ang Empire dahil paniguradong mahihimatay ako sa laki ng itataya nina Cleon mamaya, lalo na walang paki-alam sa pera 'yung mga 'yun.

Another person raised their number. "2 million." Mas lalo lang akong napapalunok 'nung marinig ko 'yung mga presyo nila.

"3.7 million." WOW! Ano na? One aurous lang ba sa kanila ang isang milyon? Jusko! Kalma, mga madam! Nakakaloka sila.

"5 million." Another called out. It was a man this time, that's why we all looked at his direction. Mukhang lider ng mga mafia. Grabe, nakakatakot mga tao rito. Paki-ulit nga sa akin ba't kami nandito?

"12 million!" Another man bid, and I heard some gasped because of how the price almost doubled. Oh, my gosh! Pwede ba akong manlimos sa kanila, baka kasi one thousand ang piso sa kanila eh.

"Going once... going twice..." Napalingon ako sa paligid at naghintay ng mga kasunod na magtataas ng presyo. Mayroong parang gustong kunin 'yon, kaso... sabi nga nila... the night is still young. Pretty sure, they would want to see more items.

"SOLD!" The man in black clapped as the winner stood up with a proud smirk on his face. Nakakakilabot 'yung nanalo. He is wearing that expensive products that 'Dons' would wear, with a cowboy hat.

Everybody applauded and the glass box with the necklace slowly went down to the floor to disappear. Panigurado na mamaya pa nila makukuha ang mga bagay na 'yun. Napabuga na lang ako ng hangin matapos ang auction ng isang item. Wow, I mean... just wow.

"Damn, that was one of a hell expensive necklace." I heard Harper mumbled to herself.

"Jusko, simula pa lang 'yan mamaya umabot ng bilyon 'yung kailangan natin. Hindi naman kaya tayo maghirap n'yan?" Nag-aalalang tanong ni Biblee.

"No way! Mother will surely have her money. We'd never go broke." I chuckled because of Harper's remark. Hindi bagay kay Harper maghirap jusko, sobrang high maintenance pa naman ng isang 'to. Masyado kasing na-spoil.

When we are talking to ourselves, another product covered in fabric appeared on the stage. Without further ado, the auctioneer removed the piece of cloth and we saw a set of jewelries. From earrings, necklace, anklets, bracelets and rings. It was... marvelous. It looked so expensive and cool.

"My gash, kapag nagsuot ka ng ganyan sa daan, asahan mong mahoholdap ka."

"Baliw ka." Natatawang sagot ko kay Biblee.

"Totoo naman, kalerkey! Tsaka marami namang imitation everywhere dyan eh, gagastos ka pa nang mahal. Ang tanong naman do'n eh... mahal mo nga, mahal ka ba?" Napanganga ako dahil sa huling sinabi ni Biblee.

"Was that for Ate Amythee or for you?" Nalilitong sabi ni Harper.

"Wow, Harper ha. Ano akala mo sa beauty ko hindi napapansin?"

"Uh? Kinda... Akira never really looked at you romantically..." Napanganga kaming dalawa ni Biblee dahil sa sinabi ni Harper na para bang napakanormal no'n!

"Hoy! Pa'no mo alam?!" Nanlalaking mga mata na tanong ni Biblee at saka kaagad lumapit kay Harper na tatawa tawa.

"I have my source. Don't worry, you are not obvious. But Ate Amythee was really so palpable about how she feels about Kuya Theon." Harper explained regally. Biblee and I looked at each other in shock. Oh, my gosh?

"Gano'n ako ka-obvious?" I asked obliviously.

"Yes!" Sabay na sagot ni Biblee at Harper kaya naman napahawak ako sa dibdib ko, grabe naman sila? Talagang pinamukha sa akin? Rubbing salt to the wounds lang? Hindi man lang naawa sa akin? Kaloka!

Para kasi 'yang multiple choice, tas sa huli wala ka pala sa choice n'ya! Saklap ng buhay ko, my gosh!

"SOLD!" Sabay sabay kaming napalingong tatlo 'nung marinig namin 'yun mula sa unahan. Kaloka, hindi ko na tuloy na subaybayan 'yung nangyaring auction dahil kay Harper at Biblee. Natawa na lang ako sa kanilang dalawa.

The auction proceeded again with another item. Unlike earlier. It was now a knife. I swear, I saw Haper and Biblee's eyes sparkle because of it. Ang ganda kasi dahil 'yung handle ay gawa sa mga iba't ibang crystals. Like sapphire, emerald, ruby, garnet and such, tapos 'yung blade ay nakapatilos at talaga namang kamangha mangha ang kayang magawa.

People started naming their price. At nalulula pa rin ako sa tindi ng mga sinasabi nilang presyo. Kung ganyan ako kapera na parang tapon lang ng tapon ng pera, sana naitapon ko na rin si Theon sa dulo ng mundo.

Baliw ka talaga Amythee! Kung ano ano na namang naiisip mo. Mahina kong kinutusan ang sarili ko at saka nanunod ng auction. Habang tumatagal, mas nakakaramdam ako ng lamig at kaba. Hindi ko alam pero parang hindi ako mapakali. Para bang nakakatakot...

Sabi naman nina Luna at Justice mas safe rito kaysa sa loob ng school ah? Pero bakit gano'n iba pa rin 'yung pakiramdam ko? Nakakatakot pa rin. 'Yung tipong parang pwedeng may mangyaring masama.

I heaved a sigh. Baka naman naprapraning lang ako kaya ganito.

After a few minutes, another item for auction started again. This time it was a gun. It was a gun for hunting and people went crazy for it. The price it was sold was 50 million. I couldn't imagine why they would want that when there are cheaper things in the market... or even at the underground market.

The auction continued for different things. Some are paintings, accessories, swords, weapons, and arts. Sometimes the prices would make us speechless and wide eyes open. I wanted to get use to it but couldn't. We grew up wealthy but that doesn't mean we'd throw money like this.

Medyo inaantok na rin ako dahil kanina pa 'yung auctin kaso ni hindi pa lumalabas 'yung inaabangan naming item. Napabuntong hininga na lang ako. I rested my chin on my palm while playing with the wine glass.

While Biblee and Harper are just looking at the people in here. Paminsan minsan ay palihim din na sumesenyas sa iba naming kasama. Kahit papaano natabunan ng boredom 'yung pag-aalala at takot na nararamdaman ko kanina kaya naman napabuntong hininga ako.

"Next item is a priced and the one and only in the world!" Muntik na akong matumba sa kinatatayuan ko dahil sa malakas na pagkakasabi 'nung lalaki sa unahan. I was flabbergasted and stoned on the spot when my eyes landed on the newly unveiled item.

"50 million!" Napanganga kaagad ako nang hindi pa man nagsasalita 'yung auctioneer tungkol sa item ay bigla na lang nagtaas ng number n'ya si Biblee at sinabi ang presyo.

"Woah, we already got a bid here, Ms. 14." The auctioneer acknowledged Biblee and another person shouted an amount.

"100 million!" Damn! How could that man offer that high!

"200 million!" Halos malaglag ang mga panga ko nang isigaw pa 'yun 'nung isang babae. Shit. The price is going high too fast! People really know that item!

It's the Crest of the Dragon!

"500 million!"

"Sira ulo talaga 'tong si Cleon." Iiling-iling na bulong ko nang marinig kung gaano kalaki ang sinabi n'yang presyo. Harper just giggled as if finding this most awaited item amusing.

"550 million!" Another person yelled.

"600 million." Mas lalo akong napalunok nang marinig ko ang boses ni Theon. Mga tuso talaga 'tong mga kasama ko. Tuso na nga sa pag-ibig tuso rin sa pera. Ano? Lahat lahat na lang kukunin nila?

"700 million!" Sino ba kasi 'yong nakikipagtalo sa amin sa letseng dragon na 'to! Argh! These notorious and dangerous people must have known its value. I wouldn't be surprise because behind these prosperous and extravagant personalities, they are dangerous who rules the underworld and illegal hell.

"800 million." It was Akira's voice that stated another amount.

"850 million." A man in a respected suit of white named his price.

"870 million." Our mouths formed a small 'o' when we heard Art's voice.

"900 million!" Pakiramdam ko hindi na ako makahinga dahil sa mga presyong naririnig ko. Pakiramdam ko nagdadasal na sina Pierce at Thorn na huwag nang madagdagan pa ang presyo na naririnig namin.

"1 billion." Harper suddenly voiced out which made me and Biblee so surprised and she just winked at us.

"Going once..." Halos ipagdasal ko na sa lahat lahat nang santo na sana makuha na ni Harper ang bagay na 'yun sa halagang sinabi n'ya. Jusko, broken hearted na nga ako oh, h'wag naman pati money broken oh.

"Going twice..." I looked at the people in the place. I could see people's eyes with regrets and some people who wanted to bet but was hesitating.

"Sabihin mo na na sold. Bwisit naman oh!" Natatarantang bulong ni Biblee... hanggang sa...

"SOLD!"

Napahawak ako sa dibdib ko, kung meron man, dahil sa abot abot na kaba na pakiramdam ko umabot na hanggang langit. Muntik na rin ako magsisigaw ng 'yes'. Nako, kung hindi lang agaw pansin baka nagtatalon na rin ako.

Harper smirked proudly at the two of us, and we smiled giddily.

One down. Just one more... and we are finally out of here.

Pakiramdam ko ngayon lang ulit ako nakahinga kaya naman nagconcentrate ako sa paghinga ko at saka tumingin muli sa unahan pero gano'n na lang 'yung kilabot na naramdaman ko nang makita 'yung auctioneer na nadirektang nakatingin sa mga mata ko habang may maliit na ngiti sa kaliwang labi.

Napalunok ako at naramdaman kong pinanlamigan ang buo kong katawan. Hindi ko na rin napansin na hindi na naman ako humihinga. Para bang sa isang iglap kaming dalawa na lang 'yung nandito sa loob ng hall.

And... my vision started to blur because of that stare.

That stare... the stare that made me feel so terrified for my life...

Nang mag-iwas s'ya ng tingin ay agad akong napahawak sa kapatid ko at saka mabilis na hinugot ang paghinga na tila nalunod ako. Biblee and Harper were alarmed for my sudden reaction. Even some of our members looked at me with worries in their eyes, and I just slowly and slightly shook my head at them.

"Ate... okay ka lang?" Nag-aalalang tanong ni Biblee.

Tumango ako kahit pakiramdam ko kaahon ko lang sa kakaibang takot na lumunod sa akin.

That guy... that small smile... that gaze...

Damn reminded me of the merciless experience when I prayed looking at the bloody moon.

Nanghihina ako at nanginginig sa takot habang patuloy ang auction. Biblee and Harper's attention were also back on the stage, waiting patiently for the last item we need. Miracle's Crown. We needed that one... whatever the price may be.

The man in front started describing an item which made my forehead knotted. Bakit nagsasabi na s'ya, wala pa naman 'yung item? Hanggang sa unti unting umangat ang isang bagay na walang tabi ng kahit anong tela.

Nangilabot ako nang husto at naramdaman ko ang pagtaas ng mga balahibo ko sa braso nang makita ang bagay na nasa unahan. Napalunok nang ilang saglit at tanging ang kulay pulang buwan lamang ang nasa isip ko.

"The Sinner's Crown..." Harper whispered in awe.

Everyone was dead quiet in the presence of that breathtaking crown... It commanded royalty and sin at the same time... it showed power yet fear... and I don't know if it's just me... but I felt like I needed to kneel because of it...

It was really black... and the tears of ruby made it look like it was bloody. A bloody crown. Rightful of its name... Sinner's Crown.

Just... how did Miracle became the owner of such a beautiful yet ghastly crown? It's like a nightmare that became an item. A priced item. How did the crown ended up in here, when I could already feel that it's derservingly hers?

The crowd was mute. No one dared to speak their price. Why? It fucking felt like a sin betting some money for that... ni hindi ko nga alam kung may presyo bang tatapat d'yan, gayong kulang na lang magbigay kami ng respeto sa koronang iyon. 'Yung tipong luluhuran naming lahat.

"In awe by its bewildering beauty?" he asked playfully. Damn, parang gusto ko s'yang saktan dahil parang wala lang sa kan'ya ang bagay na katabi n'ya. Hindi n'ya ba ramdam ang kakaibang tensyon sa paligid dahil sa bagay na 'yun?

That was the crown... and we are already frightful of it... paano na lang kapag nakapatong na ito sa ulo nang tunay na nagmamay-ari sa bagay na 'yan?

In the midst of silence... I gathered all my energy and slowly raised my number. Afraid of everything... but still taking the risk. Kung may tao mang maaring magsalita o magkasala sa korona na 'yan... siguradong ako 'yon...

"1 billion." I uttered while gulping. Although... what I really wanted to utter was... my life.

Yeah, I'd bet my life for that... for the real owner of that crown.

The auctioneer's soft yet mocking laughter echoed in the whole room. Chills spread everywhere, but no one dared to speak.

"Going once... going twice..."

Like what I expected... no one ever named their price after what I stated.

Hindi na rin ako huminga at namuo na ang malalamig na pawis sa noo ko nang hindi ko pa marinig ang salitang inaabangan ko. Wala... walang magsasalita o magtatangka na kumuha n'yan maliban sa mga makasalanan...

"SOLD!"

No one even applauded when it was announced. Napabuga na lang ako ng hangin at saka pinagsaklop ang dalawang kamay. Halos bumigay rin ang mga tuhod ko dahil sa tindi ng kabog ng puso ko. Inalalayan ako ni Biblee at Harper nang makita na para bang nawala lahat ng enerhiya sa katawan ko.

Hindi ko na rin maintindihan ang mga sinasabi nila dahil tanging malakas na tibok lang ng puso ko ang naririnig ko nang pagkakataong iyon.

After a minute... I could finally breathe again... although still ragged.

"Ate Amythee, you want to rest?" Harper asked worriedly.

"It's fine." I told Harper, and patted her shoulders a little.

Pero dahil nag-aalala pa rin silang dalawa ni Biblee sa akin, nag-utos sila mula sa isang guard ng isang high chair para sa table namin. Wala na rin akong nagawa at umupo ro'n nang ibigay 'yun 'nung guard. Mas okay na rin 'to kasi pakiramdam ko talaga nawalan ako ng lakas.

Akala ko magpapatuloy pa 'yung auction pero nagulat na lang ako 'nung kakaibang kabog ng dibdib na naman ang naramdaman ko nang magtama ang tingin namin 'nung lalaking nasa stage. He smirked and the moment he snapped his fingers.

The dim lights glowed black. Which made everything eerie. Smoke suddenly came out from the bottom of the tables. People started murmuring but some smirked like they were waiting for this time.

"Now... the real auction begins..."

Fear slowly surged throughout my body. Nothing was as raw as the panic I'm feeling right now that my stomach clenched and I felt like I was blinded by terror.

Hindi lang ako ang nakaramdam ng matinding takot sa nakita. Natigilan si Harper sa kinatatayuan at saka napalunok. Biblee's cold sweat bullets were also evident on her forehead, and our breathing hitched the moment the next item was revealed.

"The heart of the King of Minophyus."

Nagtaasan ang balahibo sa batok at braso ko nang makita ko ang tunay na puso sa harapan. Pakiramdam ko ay bumaliktad ang sikmura ko dahil halos kayat kayat pa ang dugo mula ro'n. Kulang na lang tumibok tibok iyon. Biblee stared at it with dread horror.

"M...mino...phyus?" Mahinang bulong ko.

"It was an organization that was based outside of the country. A powerful underground association. Almost on par with the Empire." Halos wala sa sariling banggit ni Biblee sa pagtatanong ko.

"And you are saying that heart belonged to their leader?" Hindi makapaniwalang tanong ni Harper.

"Y-Yeah." Biblee replied with her voice thicked in fear.

Akala ko matatakot din ang mga taong nando'n kagaya ng nararamdaman namin pero gano'n na lang ang kilabot na hatid nila nang magsimula silang magsabi ng mga presyo. Hindi lang basta basta pera. Kung hindi napakalalaking halaga ng pera.

The other guys looked at our way with worry and disgust because of the cheers of the people in here... they are... nothing but monsters...

Akala ko matitigil ang mga nangyayari ngayon, o maari na kaming umalis. Tumayo na rin ako at saka hinawakan si Biblee at si Harper. I wanted to escape. I met Pierce's eyes and I saw his agreement with our decision that we should leave this sickening place.

Ngunit nang magsimula kaming maglakad paalis ng lugar ay natigilan kami ng husto nang ilabas ang kasunod na bagay. Para kaming binagsakan ng kakaibang takot sa puso at biglang nagsiklab ang kakaibang galit sa dibdib ko.

"These eyes... are priced more than any other eyes in the world...The legendary and mythical eyes!" Natatawang sambit ng lalaki sa unahan.

"The gray orbs of terror and safety!"

"The eyes of the Halleciaña!"

Kaagad akong napatingin kay Biblee at napahawak nang mahigpit sa sariling damit. Pakiramdam ko nagdilim ang mga paningin ko. Nagulat ako nang humakbang si Honoka at si Harper paabante dahil sa gulat sa narinig at saka tinitigang mabuti ang mga matang nasa unahan ng entablado.

"Tell me... I heard it wrong..." Thorn whispered almost out of breath.

"I-I don't think so..." Nanghihinang sagot ni Art.

These monsters started making noise of cheers and started to bet unbelievable amount of money. Hindi ko mapigilan ang pagkakasuklam na nararamdaman ko. Gusto kong sumugod sa unahan para sakalin ang auctioneer.

Nanlulumo rin akong napatingin sa mga matang akala mo'y isang price sa isang palaro kung pag-agawan ng mga taong nandito.

The eyes of Tita Princess' family... the very relative of where the triplets got their eyes of ashes... is being auctioned. Fuck! What the hell is this place!?

"SOLD!" Tumatanging-ting na sold ang narinig naming lahat at matinding hiyawan na akala mo'y mga hayop na nakawala sa hawla ang aming narinig. Naramdaman ko ang malamig na kamay na humawak sa akin na tila ba pinipigilan ako sa balak kong pagsugod.

The tiny flame of anger slowly started to ablaze inside of me.

"Let's go... Amythee... please..." Pagmamakaawa ni Pierce sa akin halos higitin na ako palabas sa lugar.

"Don't fucking touch me!" Harper bellowed in vexation. When Cleon held her arm to stop her from going to the stage.

"Please... let's go..." Thorn's eyes were full of different emotions. Fear. Heavyness. And rage. Hindi n'ya rin gusto ang nangyayari pero wala kaming magagawa sa bagay na 'to.

Kahit ayaw kong umalis ay nagpadala na lang ako kay Pierce.

Malapit na kaming makaalis lahat. Bukas na ang pinto para hayaan kaming lumabas ng auction hall. Ngunit isang mahina at nang-aasar na tawa ang nakapagpatigil sa aming lahat. At sinundan pa iyon nang napakatusong mga salita.

"Ooh... seemed like our guests are going already?" The auctioneer mentioned causing the crowd to look at us.

Napatiim bagang ako dahil do'n at saka sila gigil na tiningnan. So, I was right all along. That monster in the stage really have his eyes on us. That guy that reminded me of evils from hell and claws of demons that enjoyed every scream of plea.

"The next item is to die for..." He jeered with that arrogant simper on his face.

We stayed to where we are standing and looked at him straight in the eyes. Evil.

The next item slowly rose. My eyes squinted to see it properly. I was clenching my teeth so hard while the guy and his playful smile didn't vanish when he introduced the item that made me lose my mind, and all I knew was...

I was already in front... eye to eye with the devil.

"Thou shalt not touch me, lady. The consequences are grave." He told me with that annoying grin on his face. And his hands with black gloves and red crystals in surrender.

"You think I am afraid of hell, demon?" Nanggagalaiting sambit ko.

"You messed with one of us, you mess with the whole gang. You should remember that." Dagdag ko pa at saka ko s'ya kinuwelyuhan at nakarinig ako ng iba't ibang reaksyon mula sa mga tao rito pero hindi ako natinag.

"Amythee!" I even heard Theon's voice. But I was already burning with anger that nothing could quench it.

"Say that again bastard..." I murmured near his ear.

I heard his sounding smirk as he repeated what made me grab his neck.

"Uh? That these items... here..." He slowly spoke without a single hint of hesitation and fear in his voice.

"Are the hair and blood of the real Morbelque bloodline..." Kakaibang kilabot ang nadama ko nang banggitin n'ya ang mga katagang iyon, ngunit... mas lalong nangibabaw ang matinding galit ko nang ibulong n'ya sa akin ang mga kasunod na salita.

"I believe... the owner of these... is Artemis Morbelque."

* * *

To be continued...