Promise

Battera, an old man with strands of silver hair contrasting with his pale skin, stood up, making his presence known amidst the auction's frenzy. His voice cut through the din, "1.7 billion Jenny!"

The hall went silent, the staggering amount taking everyone aback. The auctioneer, a seasoned woman, barely hid her surprise, but Battera's determination was palpable. Whispers filled the space, some filled with awe, others with envy, but all converging on the singular question, "Who would challenge such a bid?"

Haruto, however, seemed unperturbed. His calm eyes met Battera's intense gaze. Without a word, he gave a slight nod to Machi, who, understanding her cue, left her seat with a swiftness only she could achieve. As the attendees continued their whispered speculations, Haruto leaned towards Canary.

"That's the man from the Battera Foundation, isn't it?" Canary whispered, her voice soft but laced with curiosity.

"Yes," Haruto replied, his tone even. "He's more determined than I anticipated."

Machi returned promptly, her stride confident. She leaned in, her voice barely audible, "There's talk about a legend. It's said that within Greed Island, there's a special condition. If one completes the game, they're granted the privilege of choosing a card to take out. One such card is the 'Angel's Breath', a rarity among rarities. It's believed that this card has the power to cure any illness."

Canary's eyes widened slightly, her fingers gently brushing against Haruto's hand, "Do you think he's after it for a personal reason?"

Haruto nodded, processing the information. "Likely for his lover. I've heard she's gravely ill."

Kortopi, who had remained silent until now, interjected, "That explains the desperation."

After a brief pause, Haruto murmured to Machi, "Tell Battera that the Meteor Kingdom has the means to heal his lover. Advise him to cease this bidding war. If we're unsuccessful in our attempts, he can have one of the game's consoles, on our terms."

Machi nodded, swiftly making her way towards Battera. Canary observed Haruto for a moment, admiration evident in her eyes. "Your ability to navigate situations always amazes me," she confessed.

Haruto smiled, a hint of warmth in his eyes, "It's not about navigating, Canary. It's about understanding the desires that drive people."

Machi approached Battera, her presence demanding his attention. "Mr. Battera," she began, her voice steady, "King Haruto of the Meteor Kingdom offers a proposal. The kingdom possesses the capabilities to heal your beloved. Withdraw from this bidding war, and should we fail in our efforts, you will receive a console, free of charge."

Battera, taken aback, studied Machi for a moment, then shifted his gaze towards Haruto. The two locked eyes, a silent communication passing between them. After a tense pause, Battera replied, "Your King's reputation precedes him. Very well, I accept."

Machi nodded, acknowledging his decision, and returned to Haruto's side. The auctioneer, sensing the shift in dynamics, cleared her throat, "Any further bids?"

The room still buzzed from Battera's substantial bid, its reverberations palpable. The auctioneer awaited the next move, her gavel at the ready. All eyes turned to Haruto and his party, anticipation filling the room.

Canary, her fingers lightly grazing the paddle, lifted it with deliberate grace, her voice clear, "1.8 billion Jenny."

There was a collective intake of breath. Everyone awaited Battera's counter, but he merely sat down, a respectful nod directed towards Haruto. The Meteor Kingdom, represented by the poised group of four, took control of the room.

The bidding continued, but none dared to challenge Canary's bid after Battera's withdrawal. Each time a Greed Island game was presented, the Meteor Kingdom claimed it, raising the bid just enough to deter competition. Their strategy was evident, allowing them to win all seven consoles without unnecessary extravagance.

The room was filled with whispers, a chorus of envy, disbelief, and reluctant admiration. People from every corner craned their necks to get a glimpse of the enigmatic group. Each time Haruto caught someone's gaze, they would quickly look away, overpowered by his quiet intensity.

After the auction, Haruto and his party found themselves amidst a lavish ball, the atmosphere buzzing with concealed curiosity and opportunistic glances. The luxurious hall echoed with soft melodies, as influential figures and high-profile attendees milled about, their eyes frequently darting towards the group from the Meteor Kingdom. There was a palpable sense of eagerness in the air; everyone was keen to form a connection with Haruto, whose kingdom not only led in technological advancements but also held a significant prowess in Nen.

Battera, the old man from earlier, was the first to take the initiative. His gaze fixed on Haruto, he navigated through the crowd, a determined glint in his eyes. The rumors of Meteor Kingdom's advanced medical capabilities had reached him long before, and despite the longstanding bad reputation overshadowing the brilliance of the kingdom due to its past, Meteor City, Battera was ready to take a chance. The Greed Island game was, after all, shrouded in mystery, and the offer from Haruto was tangible.

As Battera approached, Haruto's eyes met his, acknowledgment flickering in his gaze. The old man cleared his throat, his voice steady, "King Haruto, I must extend my gratitude for your generous offer today."

Haruto nodded slightly, his posture upright and commanding, "Mr. Battera, it's within our interest to assist. Your circumstances have reached us, and we believe in lending our strength where it's needed."

Battera nodded, a flicker of relief crossing his features. "I've heard of the capabilities of the Meteor Kingdom, and I'm willing to place my trust in your hands."

Canary, standing gracefully by Haruto's side, interjected softly, her gaze warm, "We will do everything in our power, Mr. Battera. Your trust isn't misplaced."

After looking left and right, Battera leaned in, his voice dropping to a whisper, "Is it true that you can harness... Nen," the word seemed foreign as it left his lips, "and merge it with technology? That is why you are so advanced?"

Haruto's gaze remained steady, his expression unreadable. "It is true," he replied after a pause, his tone even. "Our advancements in combining Nen with technology have opened doors to possibilities others deem impossible."

Battera's eyes held a spark of intrigue, "And this is something you can apply to medical fields as well?"

"Indeed," Haruto affirmed, his posture relaxed yet authoritative. "We've integrated Nen in various sectors, including medicine, to enhance our capabilities."

Machi, observing silently until now, added, "Our healers are adept in using Nen to diagnose and treat ailments with a precision that conventional medicine can't achieve."

Canary's eyes met Haruto's for a brief moment before she spoke, her voice gentle, "We believe in using every resource at our disposal to better the lives of those in our kingdom and beyond."

Battera seemed to ponder their words, his gaze shifting between each of them. "And what would you ask in return for such a service?"

Haruto's chin lifted slightly, his eyes locking with Battera's, "A partnership. Your resources combined with our technology can bring about advancements beneficial to both parties."

Battera's expression softened, "A partnership... Yes, I can see the benefits." He straightened, his decision made. "Very well, I am willing to form this alliance."

Kortopi, who had been quiet until now, spoke, "It's a wise decision. Our kingdom values trust and mutual growth in partnerships."

Battera nodded, seemingly satisfied with their assurances. "I look forward to our future endeavors then. And I am grateful for your help with my... personal matter."

Haruto offered a slight nod, his demeanor calm yet reassuring, "You have our word, Mr. Battera."

----

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