Auction [ III ]

"I've done it…"

Slumping into my seat, I sighed in relief.

Almost my entire fortune was now gone in an instant, traded for a single object. But it was worth it.

I turned my gaze toward the stage, watching as the auction employees carefully retrieved the mysterious shard. Even now, as they handled it, they seemed uneasy, as if touching it might unravel the very essence of their being.

Moments later, a steward arrived at my booth, bowing respectfully before handing me a sealed parchment.

"A receipt for the item, sir. The payment shall be processed immediately and the artifact will be delivered to your quarters shortly. If you wish for additional security, the auction house can provide an escort."

I waved him off.

"That won't be necessary. I'll handle it myself."

The steward bowed once more before departing, leaving me alone with my thoughts.

Four million gold.

A number so absurd that even now, it didn't feel real.