Chapter 171 - Hundred And Seventy One - We attend the Grand Auction (1/2)
”And for our next lot...”
The Grand Auction was held within the Dome of Prosperity, a building shaped as ostentatiously as its name. This was naturally located in New Julip. One who wished to enter would walk up ten stone steps and walk through two gilded columns just to reach the heavy wood doors that were as tall as three great men were they to be standing upon the shoulders of their fellows. These heavy wood doors were naturally guarded by such men, who could intimidate most of those wishing to sell or to purchase or who simply came for a little entertainment.
The employees within the reception area were arrogant, but not offensively so. There was a balance finely pointed, allowing cliental to know that while they welcomed their business, they did not welcome any trouble from them. They were employed by the influential and highly prosperous Elysium Night Trading Company, thus they should be respected as such, for only those with excellent qualities could seek work beneath this towering umbrella. In addition, the guards outside and within were not just for show.
”...this intermediate grade scimitar named Silver Flame, by its creator. Many of you know, I am sure, of Blacksmith Dalis Cam Lo...
The large hall in which the Grand Auction was taking place was segregated into the common seats, in which those with ordinary and bronze invitations could sit (the latter gaining the front seats, while everyone else was forced to make the best of it behind). Then there was the balcony seats in which those blessed with silver invitations could enjoy the show and then there were those with gold invitations who claimed the V.I.P boxes. They naturally had the best views and could see each treasure in detail, as well as be served with drinks and maintain some anonymity by having employees speak for them. In addition, their seats were the most comfortable being cushioned sofas with plush padding for their noble bottoms.
Leon, Jin Li and Ursam were not in these very exclusive seats.
”...this weapon is one forged by one of his finest apprentices.”
Leon couldn't really see the weapon in question very well, Ursam's invitation was an ordinary one. So to him, the auctioneer was simply displaying a curved sword, not very interesting. Jin Li's eye's were sharper and his height gave him an advantage over his small lover, so he could see the sword in more detail. That saying, while it was attractive, he felt that it was a kin to a flower vase; not very useful in reality.
”Do I have bid of 500 silver?”
Ursam yawned beneath his hand. He'd experienced many auctions over the years, although it had been a long time since he'd been buying things from one. He understood the score, though. In a good atmosphere, one could be swept away by the tides and bid way more than the item for sale was worth. However, that did not mean that there was not a bargain to be had on occasion. Regardless, he'd lost a lot of money in his youth to clever auctioneers. He was older and wiser now (and also had a wife with a strong grip and discerning eye) so he knew better than to throw away his money on a whim.
”Sold to the young gentleman for 750 silver!”
Opening one eye, Ursam inwardly congratulated the savvy purchaser. Although the sword was really just an ornate piece, its quality was still equal to an average scimitar and those could sell for roughly 800 to 900 silver. The boy got himself a deal here.