It didn’t take long before Kai left the store with fifty Spirit Core Infusion Vials secured in his inventory.

He wasn’t too interested in other items for now... those could wait.

His focus was on the Auction itself. Still, he had already delegated tasks to his companions, ensuring that every angle of survival was covered while he concentrated on the bigger picture.

They should be roaming around now and trying to purchase those things he had assigned.

’I guess I’ll see them quickly if I walk around.’ Kai mused.

Claire, Mei, and Marissa had been tasked with searching for livestock.

Kai’s instructions were clear... "We need food. If possible, find animals that can provide sustainable food sources. Milk, eggs, meat... anything that can be bred and multiplied. If they’re selling chickens here, consider the potential for a poultry farm. Think long-term."

The three were probably locating sellers right now who specialized in biological resources rather than weapons.

Ralph, Victor, and Alfie were assigned to scour the weapon stalls. Kai had been told to look for what he couldn’t produce with his Gift Packs.

"Mortars, RPGs, EMP grenades... anything heavy-duty that can give us an edge against Sentinels or large-scale A.I. assaults. Don’t waste time on common firearms... prioritize advanced military gear." Kai said before the trio.

Of course, he had no idea if they’d really find them here, but it was worth a try.

Elena, Farrah, and Aurora were also grouped together with a different mission. Kai had instructed them to focus on medical supplies and rare serums.

"Search for anything that can heal, enhance, or protect. Gene serums, antidotes, regeneration kits... things that can save lives when battles go wrong. Just find some things that my Medical Gift Packs couldn’t produce Don’t hesitate to spend medals if the value is clear." The three women understood the importance of their task, knowing that survival often hinged on medical resources more than weapons.

Jonas, Vera, and Steven were directed toward infrastructure and construction materials. Kai’s words echoed in their minds...

"We need to strengthen our shelters. Look for special alloys, portable generators, energy shields, and anything that can fortify defenses. If you find modular housing units or advanced construction kits, secure them."

The group knew their purchases could mean the difference between a shelter standing or collapsing under attack.

Henry, Nadia, and Enzo were tasked with energy and fuel acquisition.

Although Kai had a truck filled with fuel from Haven-28, it was still a limited resource. Kai had to find other sources of fuel.

"Focus on finding power generators, fuel, and anything that can be used to modify Sentinels, vehicles, or defensive systems..."

Finally, Juno, the one with the Telekinesis Talent, was given a solo mission. Kai trusted his instincts and resourcefulness more than most.

"Your assignment is critical," Kai told him firmly.

"Search for modern devices that the A.I. Rebels cannot hack. Look for laptops, communication terminals, or systems rumored to be unbreachable. Investigate whether there are technologies here that resist A.I. interference. If you find anything related to satellite relays or GPS systems... especially ones that bypass the current jamming, secure them. Our biggest weakness is information being blocked by the Aria... If there’s even a chance of finding unhackable tech, I want you to bring it back."

Juno’s jaw tightened and nodded. He understood the weight of the mission. His telekinesis gave him an edge in handling delicate equipment, and Kai knew he could be trusted to probe deeper into the realm’s hidden stalls.

Just like that, Juno slipped into the crowd within the Auction Realm, already scanning for merchants who dealt in advanced electronics and secure systems.

With his team dispersed and their missions clear, Kai knew that he only had to focus on his task...

Soon, the cityscape around him pulsed with energy... He found bridges that were glowing, merchants who were calling for customers, and survivors bargaining with desperation.

Yet his destination was clear...

The closer he drew to the Grand Arena, the more the atmosphere shifted.

The crowd thickened, survivors from every platform converging toward the colossal structure. The Grand Arena dominated the skyline...

It was vast, designed to hold tens of thousands, and its sheer presence dwarfed everything else in the Auction Realm.

Kai slowed his pace as he looked at the Grand Arena.

Everyone knew this was where the true Auction would begin.

He clenched his fist lightly as he moved ahead... His companions were out there, securing resources, strengthening their position. He must also complete his mission here in the Grand Arena...

The Grand Arena loomed closer and soon, its gates opened to welcome the chosen.

Kai stepped through the towering gates of the Grand Arena, joining the flood of survivors streaming inside.

The interior was vast, a colossal amphitheater with tiered platforms stretching upward.

At the entrance, attendants handed out sleek black devices. They were auction terminals. Each survivor received one, a palm‑sized console with a glowing interface.

It was the tool they would use to bid, track items, and confirm purchases. Kai accepted his calmly.

As he moved deeper, eyes followed him.

His Superior Grade Stealth Gear drew attention immediately.

Just like before, whispers spread quickly, survivors nudging each other, pointing discreetly. Yet Kai’s gaze shifted when he noticed something even more unusual.

Across the crowd stood a man in a full clown costume.

Bright colors, oversized shoes, painted mask... the sight was absurd in this sea of warriors and scavengers.

Kai’s brow furrowed beneath the visor.

’A clown?’ He guessed the man had a Talent related to his current situation. Whatever it was, it was bizarre, but undeniably intriguing.

Before Kai could dwell on it, the arena lights dimmed.

A spotlight illuminated the central platform, and a woman stepped forward.

She was tall, poised, and dressed in an elegant outfit that accentuated her figure.

"Welcome, Survivors, to the Black Market Auction!" she announced, her tone was surely alluring.

"You have fought, endured, and survived to stand here today... Gene Traders have prepared items that can change the course of your battles against the A.I. Army. Bid wisely, for every choice may decide your future."