The Threat from Ash City

"Two hundred and thirty million! Sold!" Alexander's gavel struck down from the podium above.

"Did you do this on purpose?" Zane squinted at the Ghost King beside him, disbelief etching across his face.

"I have no idea what's happening either!" The Ghost King looked equally stunned.

"Thank you, thank you for your graciousness!" The Ghost King who had secured the Screaming Nachos for a hefty sum of two hundred and thirty million, stood up to express his gratitude toward everyone around him.

Two hundred and thirty million! A princely sum, even for him. Research? A figment of the imagination! 

It was merely the price he paid to win Alexander's favor, after falling out of grace alongside Abigail.

Alexander, aware of the crowd's motives, delayed the next item. Instead, he brought out more Screaming Nachos, ensuring each Ghost King could partake in the bidding. 

Faces like Zane's darkened; it appeared they would go home empty-handed today.