A voice rang out clearly from the front row.
"One hundred gold coins."
The announcer's smile widened, and he rubbed his hands together in excitement.
"Well, well! A fine start! Do we have anyone willing to raise the bid?" he called out, voice booming across the hall.
The audience stirred, whispers spreading like wildfire. A few glances were exchanged until another hand lifted confidently into the air.
"One hundred and fifty gold coins," a thick voice announced.
Himeros's expression shifted. Her cold demeanor darkened instantly. Eyes sharp, she glared coldly at the bidder.
The man—a middle-aged figure wearing a grotesque goblin mask—grinned and rubbed his palms eagerly.
The announcer turned toward him and, noticing the goblin mask, gave a sly grin.
