99 A Bargain (1/2)

While they were preparing to bring the first item onstage, Ji-ho leaned in towards Minhyun's ear. ”The first item being introduced is a painting created during the Joseon period. It was actually stolen by j.a.pan during world war two and was kept till now. It is a very rare artifact that technically should be in the hands of the government, but does anyone in this room really care?”

Not bad for the first item. Minhyun wasn't a collector but having an item like this in his stash wasn't bad. Also, to start bidding at the beginning would linger in everyone's minds. It wasn't a bad strategy.

”What are your thoughts on bidding?” He whispered back.

Ji-ho shook his head. ”The Ki family wanted a painting added to their collection so I believe they will strike for this. However, when it comes to art, the Moon family shows no interest. If you want it for personal reasons or to boost your status, then go for it. Although this is one of the stronger pieces, there will be something better later.”

Just as Ji-ho had said, the painting was brought onto stage by two staff. It was placed in a bullet-proof gla.s.s case with state-of-the-art technology at the bottom to only allow certain persons to open it.

Minhyun raised an eyebrow. He knew how talented Ji-ho was but it always surprised him to see how powerful he truly was. A hidden gem that n.o.body else had acquired. After all, with his childish personality, for a regular person, it was almost impossible to tell that true greatness laid in his brain.

Upon seeing the painting, Yoona was in awe. Using ancient brush techniques, the soft strokes flowed together to create a beautiful tree on a island in the middle of a river. Mountains decorated the background and flocks of birds flew in the sky. To think that such a painting was preserved for so long was a shock. There was not a hint of tear or wear down.

”Price starting from a five hundred thousand dollars.”

Voices began to raise and people started to bid. They raised up their signs with their a.s.signed numbers, trying to compete for the win.

”Five hundred and fifty thousand!”

”Five hundred and seventy-five thousand.”

”Six hundred thousand.”

Someone in the back stood up, waving their sign up in the air. ”Seven hundred and seventy-two thousand!”

The amount of money being thrown around made Yoona sweat. Since she had a love for art, she knew how expensive these pieces could become. The painting was absolutely gorgeous and worth all the money that was being offered. However, being surrounded by people who were willing to spend a fortune was different. Even buying strawberries made her wallet feel too light for her liking.

”One million.”

The bidder was on the top floor where it was too dark for anyone to see the speaker. The lights on the sign punctured through the darkness for the auctioneer to see.

Yoona was shocked to hear the voice from beside of her. Minhyun had bid one million dollars?!?