Although Muriel had not spoken a specific number, the majority present at today's auction were figures of renown in New Hanbok.Therefore, they merely paused for a moment.Soon enough, someone raised an auction paddle."I bid five hundred million for this painting!"Upon hearing a bid, those around immediately joined in the call."I bid seven hundred million!""I bid one billion!"The auction had only just begun, and the price of the painting had already been driven to the formidable sum of a billion.Though to those present, a billion was hardly a trifling matter.But indeed, they were still determining whether the legend tied to this painting was fact or fabrication.If it were merely a rumor, to pay such an amount for a worthless painting would be a capital loss.However, they had not come here for the money.Fundamentally, all understood a truth: their reputation would be further elevated only by spending lavishly at charitable auctions like this.Naturally, only some people harbo
When everyone was convinced there would be no further bids and that the painting now belonged to the Hammer gang's leader, a calm voice echoed from a corner of the auction house. Immediately, everyone was taken aback, their eyes collectively turning to the source of the vote.There was an immediate flurry of whispers..."Who is this person?""Has he lost his mind? Daring to spend such a vast sum on a painting? Could he believe that he could discover the mythical treasure?"It was evident that Ethan's audacious bid left the auction attendees stunned. Most of them deemed Ethan a fool.Regardless of the current circumstances, should he merely hike the bid a bit, it was plausible that Toshan would quit the auction.However, he raised the bid and escalated it to an astronomical figure, which was unimaginable to the rest of the participants.Even Muriel, standing on the stage then, stumbled over her words."One... One hundred billion?! Sir, if I hear correctly, you just bid one hundred bill
"You...let me go!"Struggling to stand up from Ethan's grasp, Muriel's face was the epitome of mortification."Oh!"Hearing this, Ethan instinctively let go.Initially unstable on her feet, Muriel swayed dangerously when Ethan released his hold, nearly collapsing to the ground again.Fortunately, she was quick to react this time and steadied herself by grabbing the back of a chair, avoiding a repeat of her previous tumble.She shot a reproachful glance at Ethan."This man, he has no sense of empathy? Can't he understand when one asks to be let go, he shouldn't just let go immediately?"In the chambers of her hidden wrath, Muriel had chosen to dismiss Ethan from her regard at this juncture.She resolved to return and seek verification of the bank account number within the card Ethan had bestowed to ascertain whether it genuinely contained the one hundred billion he had claimed.Yet, Muriel found herself unable to take a step.Then, Ethan's voice, tinged with a measure of disappointment
As Richard neared, followed by a bodyguard with an imposing aura, Fox felt a sense of wariness, preparing to step in front of Ethan.However, Spinel beat him to it, blocking the space between Ethan and Richard.Seeing this, Richard's brows furrowed slightly.But he did not continue forward. Instead, he looked at Ethan with a provocative gaze,"So you said this painting is a forgery? Can I ask what proof you have to assert that it's not authentic?"Richard's voice remained calm, yet everyone could detect an undertone of challenge in his words."Proof? Do I need to provide you with any? Besides, when did I say this painting was a forgery? Why are you in such a rush? If I'm correct, you are a Steven, not a Giza."Steven's family members, when did you start changing your names and surnames?"Ethan responded in an unhurried tone, his emotions completely unreadable.His words, however, visibly irritated Richard.Nevertheless, Richard swallowed his anger, his voice slightly subdued."Althoug
"Allow me to introduce myself. I am Sapphire, the CEO and Chairman of Luis Suarez Corporation. Today, on behalf of the New Hanbok auction house, I sincerely apologize!"As she spoke, Sapphire bowed deeply to Ethan. The onlookers were left in disbelief.No one could have expected someone as high-ranking and esteemed as Sapphire to bow to a young man. Yet, Ethan's gaze was laced with an undercurrent of mockery and provocation."I'm sorry, but I really can't accept your apology! Just why are you apologizing? Do you also believe this painting to be a fake? Or are you compensating me because your people damaged the painting?!"Ethan's words were like thunder, resonating in the ears of all present. They were all astounded at his lack of reverence towards Richard and even more so towards Sapphire, who held a crucial position in the powerful Miller family, one of the most significant forces in New Hanbok.Even the underworld and the law-abiding society of New Hanbok province held immense resp
The auction continued once again, but the atmosphere was slightly eerie.Most items were successfully auctioned off.However, the final prices were low, just average, lacking significant highlights compared to earlier intense competition.Of course, they were there for charity, so only a few paid attention to this detail.But on the stage, Muriel's face was quite sour.She initially thought she would be the center of attention and her value would be elevated again.However, based on the current situation, not to mention attracting the attention of the mainstream media, her reputation might even plummet today.Even worse, her value might plummet significantly.However, she was helpless.In front of Ethan and Sapphire, she was merely a backdrop. Managing to keep up till the end of the auction was already a success for her.So, Muriel's mood was not good, her gaze flickering to where Ethan was sitting.Ever since the painting was successfully auctioned off, he hadn't participated in the
Hearing Muriel's words, many were stunned.Usually, all attendees receive an invitation card for auctions like this, and nobody would spare the time to attend a charity auction without one in hand.Because of this, they had a very odd feeling.Could there be someone here who voluntarily came to donate to Luis Suarez's Long SP charity fund?With that thought, everyone's eyes followed Muriel's gaze.Then, their attention was focused on the three figures, Ethan and his companions."They didn't receive an invitation?!"Everyone's eyes widened at this revelation.But Ethan seemed unfazed.Even a hint of a smile played on his lips."What do you mean by that? Why can't we participate in the auction?!"Fox rose angrily, glaring at Muriel, demanding an answer.Seeing his reaction, Muriel shook her head in slight exasperation."I apologize. This is the rule of our auction house! If you don't have an invitation, I suggest you leave or stay seated. We have no further objections!"Hearing this, Fo
While Muriel lingered outside, grappling with existential doubts, Finn found himself in the surveillance room, anxiety prickling at his heart. He glanced at Sapphire, still sitting indifferently on one side, watching the unfolding events."Madam, shall we proceed with the auction?" He asked.At his query, Sapphire's gaze fleetingly rested on him.Her gaze was sharp, startling Finn, who dared not meet her eyes.However, after a moment of silence punctuated by the delicate sip of her tea, Sapphire finally spoke in her calm, measured tone."Proceed? Why shouldn't we? Does he genuinely intend to present that gemstone to them?Even though Sapphire's words were icy and devoid of sentimentality, Finn, who had been at her side for many years, could perceive a simmering rage within her. He had witnessed her strategies, not once but multiple times, and the mere thought of Ethan's impending fall from grace, his inevitable humiliation, kindled a sense of exhilaration in Finn's heart.However, in