The platform felt heavier now.
Not physically—but with the weight of panic.
I didn't need to look to know what was happening behind me.
Guards from every faction were reaching for their weapons.
Lapui House mages were rushing toward the sound systems, probably trying to control the broadcast.
Auction staff were whispering furiously into their comms.
And above all that… was silence.
The kind of silence that wasn't quiet.
The kind that came after something holy broke.
The kind that wrapped around your throat and made you feel like you were floating midair with no ground to land on.
Then—
"WHAT DOES HE MEAN, THEY'RE BACK?!"
Someone screamed from the second floor.
That was the spark.
Chaos bloomed like wildfire.
Dozens of nobles leapt from their seats, shouting, questioning, accusing.
"Who confirmed this?! Where is your proof, Romero!?"
"You can't just declare something like this!"
"Is this some kind of tactic? Are you trying to shift trade routes?!"
