SIGRID

I arrived in the city of Valles, though, in truth, I had no real idea where exactly I was in the realm.

So much had changed over time, and I was relying solely on Electra’s memories to guide me.

"Where is the auction house?" I asked the guards at the city’s entrance, and they gave me directions.

We navigated through the streets, weaving between carriages and bustling crowds, until we trotted up to an enormous mansion set apart from the noise.

"Ma’am, excuse me, but this is a private residence," two guards stood watch at the tall iron gates.

"I’m an invited guest to today’s event," I said, extending the invitation, which they inspected.

"And him?"

"He’s my slave. Any problem with that?" I raised a brow.

The horse fidgeted, restless from the long journey, and my patience was wearing thin.

"No, no issue at all. Please proceed, Lady de la Croix. A stablehand will guide you."

At last, the towering gates, wrapped in ivy, swung open to reveal a beautiful garden.

"Follow me this way,"