"That one," he murmured to himself, a spark of determination gleaming in his eyes.

***

The announcer's voice held a captivating quality, casting an enchanting spell over the crowd, "The Razorclaw Mantis stands far from the ordinary realm of praying mantises. It's a creature renowned for its exceptional speed, untamed ferocity, and distinct attributes that differentiate it from its more commonplace kin."

A frenzy of betting ensued as soon as the beast was revealed, its appearance eliciting gasps and shouts from the crowd. With a height of two meters and a length of three, the Razorclaw Mantis managed to exhibit a compact yet potent form. Its body blended shades of dark green and iridescent blue, offering an impeccable camouflage within its verdant forest habitat. What truly set it apart, however, was its uncanny ability to extend and double its dimensions when provoked or threatened, a feature that added an intimidating aspect to its already impressive stature.

Although it wasn't the largest creature on display that day, the raw power exuded by the Razorclaw Mantis elevated it above its auctioned peers. The auctioneer's voice resonated again, "Though currently classified as a tier 1, stage 3 beast, the Razorclaw Mantis possesses the latent potential to ascend to tier 7 in due course."

Eston regarded Bane with a smile, remarking, "You have a knack for quality, boy."

However, Bane was fully captivated by the auctioneer's description, his senses wholly absorbed in the details. Eston observed this with amusement before turning his attention back to the spectacle.

"The crowning attribute of the Razorclaw Mantis lies within its formidable claws. These razor-sharp appendages slice through the toughest of materials, serving not just as tools for hunting but as formidable weapons. The fully matured mantises even possess claws surpassing the hardness of diamonds, a testament to their remarkable evolution and adaptation.

"The creature's limbs are crafted for swiftness, allowing it to execute lightning-quick strikes that afford prey minimal response time. Its multifaceted, sizable eyes provide exceptional vision even in low-light settings. The Razorclaw Mantis's wings, although compact, deliver superior efficiency, enabling it to navigate swiftly through dense forests and confined spaces with unmatched agility.

"Regarding temperament, the Razorclaw Mantis is characterized by its aggressive disposition. A solitary predator, it capitalizes on its speed, camouflage, and lethal claws to secure its meals. While an extremely aggressive hunter, these beasts tend to eat more than they should, so you should prepare your pockets."

A collective silence fell over the audience, yet their thoughts were unanimous: "I must have it."

Bane turned to Eston, his plea heartfelt, "Please, even if it's the last thing you do for me, I swear I'd repay you with my life someday if you manage to secure that beast."

Eston replied with a single condition, "Agreed, but if I obtain it for you, this beast won't be a mere tool of battle. It will be your companion, perhaps even a part of your family—a loyal ally in this treacherous world. Can you promise to care for it with the reverence and respect it deserves?"

Bane's eagerness shone through, his resolve unwavering, "Absolutely, Uncle. I vow to treat it with the utmost care and honor it as it should be."

Eston's smile remained steady as he withdrew a card from his coat, "Start considering names, my boy." He then summoned one of the assistants.

As the assistant approached, Eston handed her the card and stated, "I'd like to purchase the Razorclaw Mantis."

The helper bowed deeply before promptly leaving the room. Amidst a flurry of bids and clamoring voices, the auction continued. But as bids escalated, the announcer proclaimed, "I regret to inform everyone that the Razorclaw Mantis has been sold!"

This declaration was met with a chorus of boos and disappointed murmurs throughout the auditorium.

The auctioneer's voice cut through the disappointed murmurs, silencing the crowd, "A VIP patron has secured the Razorclaw Mantis, thus, the matter is closed for discussion. We will now take a brief intermission."

With those words, she exited the auditorium using the catwalk. In the VIP section, Bane's excitement was palpable.

***

"Sign this, Sir Eston," the announcer continued, handing Eston a few papers. He reviewed and signed them, completing all the necessary procedures. Then, the announcer instructed the duo to follow her.

They trailed behind her, leaving the VIP section and venturing down a lengthy corridor. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, they reached the end of the passage. The announcer turned to face them.

"Through this door, we will encounter numerous beasts. I ask that you refrain from touching any of the cages," she cautioned.

Eston leaned toward Bane and whispered, "Prepare yourself mentally, boy. You're about to witness creatures beyond your wildest imagination, some that you wouldn't even dare conjure in your worst nightmares."

Bane gazed forward, his mind focused solely on the sight of the Razorclaw Mantis.

The announcer swung the door open, guiding the two into the room beyond. The atmosphere hit them like a symphony—a discordant song that was neither entirely pleasant nor entirely unpleasant. The air was filled with the cries and roars of creatures, a cacophony of bird-like calls, shrill cries from unknown beings, and the sound of people trying to manage and transport the various beasts.

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They walked down a narrow path between rows of cages. To their left, a colorful avian creature with feathers like a rainbow fluttered its wings, emitting a series of harmonious whistles. Further along, a group of reptilian creatures basked under artificial sunlight, their scales shimmering with a captivating iridescence.

On the right side of the path, a cage held a creature that seemed to be made entirely of fire, its flames dancing with an eerie intelligence. Nearby, a massive feline beast lay lazily, its eyes reflecting both wisdom and an air of disdain for its surroundings.

A symphony of growls, chirps, and howls surrounded them as they moved forward. Among the creatures were creatures both fearsome and majestic: some with wings that spanned the length of two men, others adorned with intricate patterns that seemed to shift with each breath.

As they continued walking, the diversity of forms and behaviors amazed Bane. It was a world he had never imagined existed within the kingdom, a hidden realm where nature's most extraordinary creations were displayed.

Finally, at the end of the path, they arrived at a cage that seemed to radiate an energy of its own. Inside stood the Razorclaw Mantis, its presence dominating the space around it. The creature's body shimmered with dark greens and iridescent blues, the colors shifting as if it were alive with an inner fire.

Its claws were like twin blades, sharper than any sword Bane had ever seen. The creature paced gracefully within the confines of its cage, its multifaceted eyes locked onto Bane and Eston with a mixture of curiosity and intensity.

The announcer, who had been personally assisting them due to Eston's VIP status, explained, "The taming process can take place here or in a more suitable environment, depending on the buyer's preference."

Bane's eagerness got the best of him, causing him to blurt out, "Let's do it here."

Realizing his impulsiveness, he quickly turned to those around him and apologized for his outburst. "No need to apologize, young one. Your excitement is completely understandable," reassured Eston.

The announcer summoned a worker to unlock the cage that contained the Razorclaw Mantis. However, before they proceeded, she issued a fair warning, "This particular beast was captured from the wild recently and is highly aggressive. We are not responsible for any damages or fatalities that may occur during the taming process, as the beast will be under your ownership."

Eston paid heed to her cautionary words and then turned to Bane to explain the two possible methods of taming. "There are two approaches to taming a beast: either by defeating it and forming a mental connection through your dominion ability, or by passive taming, where you befriend the beast and allow it to willingly integrate into your dominion. Since time is limited, we'll opt for a more controlled version of the first method."

Bane's attention remained focused on the Razorclaw Mantis, which had been screeching incessantly. He expressed his willingness to proceed, emphasizing, "I'm willing to do whatever it takes, as long as we don't cause it harm. But how do I establish that mental connection?"

Eston's smile was encouraging as he replied, "It's quite straightforward. Approach the creature slowly and touch its head. Then, close your eyes and visualize your spatial realm. This action will initiate a connection between the beast and your spatial realm. If your mental strength surpasses that of the creature, the taming process will commence, allowing it to integrate into your realm over time."

Curiosity prompted Bane to ask, "And if my mental strength isn't enough?"

"In the event that you've physically defeated the creature and it submits willingly to your taming, you'll be safe. However, if the creature possesses sentience and resists being tamed, the backlash could be dangerous. This is why mental training is of utmost importance."

Bane sought clarification on measuring mental strength, and Eston explained, "The size of your spatial realm is the main indicator of your mental power."

With a nod of understanding, Bane shifted his gaze back to the Razorclaw Mantis. He steeled himself for the upcoming endeavor and affirmed, "I'm ready, Uncle."

Eston directed the worker to unlock the cage, then calmly entered the enclosure. The Razorclaw Mantis, a creature accustomed to surviving through relentless killing in the wild, possessed the innate ability to assess the strength of its adversaries. However, today marked the first time this fierce beast instinctively felt a tinge of fear.

Realizing that facing this man meant certain death, the Mantis's instincts kicked in. It understood that challenging him would be a grave mistake. Eston employed his telepathic communication skill, a capability acquired upon reaching tier 5 dominion seeker status. His mental message resonated within the Mantis's mind, conveying a clear threat: "Harm this boy, and your demise will swiftly follow."

Responding to the overwhelming aura and the unyielding command, the Mantis retreated to a corner of the cage. Eston interpreted this movement as a positive sign of submission. He turned his attention towards Bane and instructed him, "Bane, do as I instructed earlier."

"Yes, uncle," replied Bane excitedly.

As Bane cautiously approached the cage, he extended his hand slowly, his movements deliberate and controlled. The Razorclaw Mantis, known for its predatory instincts, seemed to sense the boy's intentions and stilled its own movements, observing him with a mixture of curiosity and wariness. With steady determination, Bane's fingers made contact with the creature's head, feeling the cool, slightly textured surface of its exoskeleton beneath his touch.

Closing his eyes, Bane harnessed the unique state of mind he had discovered within his spatial realm. A vibrant and dynamic mental landscape unfolded, colors swirling and energies intermingling. In this inner world, he concentrated on the connection he sought with the Razorclaw Mantis, visualizing the creature as an integral part of his spatial realm, a companion and ally.

The cacophony of screeches and commotion in the room gradually faded into the background as Bane's focus deepened. His entire being was dedicated to establishing the mental link that would bind him to the formidable beast before him. He sensed the Razorclaw Mantis's presence within his inner realm, its essence merging with his own consciousness.

A surge of energy surged through Bane, a current of power that signified the intertwining of their minds. Like an intricate thread weaving between distinct entities, the connection grew stronger with each passing moment.

In an almost surreal shift, the room fell into a hushed stillness. The Razorclaw Mantis ceased its agitated screeching, its movements becoming calm and controlled. Bane could sense a profound change in the creature's demeanor, an awakening of understanding beyond the barriers of language.

Eston observed the scene with profound awe, witnessing the profound bond forming between Bane and the Razorclaw Mantis. The air seemed to hum with the intensity of their connection, a testament to the latent potential within the dominion seeker.

As the bond solidified, Bane's eyes fluttered open. The Razorclaw Mantis regarded him with an almost serene acceptance, the hostility replaced by an acknowledgment of their shared consciousness. Within Bane's spatial realm, the creature's essence was now intricately woven into the fabric of his reality—a partnership born from mutual willpower and empathy.

Approaching the cage with cautious admiration, Eston's lips curled into a proud smile. "Impressive work, Bane. You've successfully tamed your first beast."

A radiant mixture of relief and exhilaration washed over Bane. He had confronted his fears, established an extraordinary connection, and gained the power of a formidable beast. Gazing at the Razorclaw Mantis, he felt an unspoken kinship, and excitement for the journey ahead.

Eston extended a hand to rest gently on Bane's shoulder. "Now, let's retrieve it from the cage and make our way back. Your path as a dominion seeker has taken a remarkable stride forward."