2

The Silver Market's auctions were clandestine affairs, hosted in opulent mansions or luxurious yachts. Elite clients, known as "Collectors," gathered to bid on the rarest and most coveted Petit boys.

Charlie's heart sank as he was led to the auction venue. The ornate chamber pulsed with anticipation, the air thick with the scent of wealth and power.

Delicate attire, often designer-made, showcased the Petit boys' slender frames. Hair styling accentuated their unique colors, and makeup enhanced their natural beauty.

The room was divided into sections: The Stage, where Petit boys were showcased; The Bidding Area, reserved for Collectors; and The Observation Deck, for privileged guests.

Auctioneers, skilled in the art of persuasion, presented each Petit boy. Starting prices ranged from $500,000 to $2 million. Bidding increments varied between $50,000 to $200,000. The auctioneer's rhythmic chant built tension.

Petit boys were categorized into price tiers based on rarity, beauty, and unique traits:

Tier 1: $500,000 - $1 million (rare beauty, unique features)

Tier 2: $1 million - $2 million (exceptional beauty, rare hair/eye color)

Tier 3: $2 million - $5 million (extreme rarity, extraordinary features)

Other factors influenced bidding: Virginity increased the price by 20-50%, unique skills (music, art, languages) added 10-30%, and bloodline - provenance from esteemed families - raised the price.

Charlie's mind reeled as he awaited his turn on the auction block. His unique grey eyes and white hair placed him in Tier 2. But his refusal to comply with Master Clerk's demands might lower his value.

As the auctioneer's voice echoed through the chamber, Charlie's fate hung in the balance.

In the moonlit city, the Palace of the Night sheltered the creatures of the shadows. Xander, the vampire king's younger brother, strolled through its grand halls, his heart heavy with longing.

For 500 years, Xander had witnessed his brother, Drake, bask in the warmth of love with his Petit companion, Lucas. Their bond was a beacon, illuminating the darkness.

Xander yearned for that connection. Tired of sipping blood from crystal glasses, he craved the intimacy of tasting it from his own Petit's neck, feeling their pulse synchronize with his.

Lucky for him, vampires lived eternally; otherwise, a life without love would have consumed him. Xander's trysts with others left him empty, a hollow echo of what he truly desired.

The Silver Market's invitations, always declined, arrived regularly. Yet, today's delivery bore Drake's encouragement: "Attend, dear brother, one last time."

Xander's curiosity stirred. Perhaps this auction would bring him the companion he had longed for.

As he descended into the night, the Silver Market's mansion materialized before him. Opulent chandeliers cast a golden glow, and the whispers of elite Collectors filled the air.

Xander's eyes scanned the room, searching for the one who would quench his thirst for love.

Meanwhile, Charlie, unaware of Xander's presence, stood on the auction block, his heart racing with every bid.

Fate's threads began to weave, entwining Xander and Charlie in a dance of destiny.