We stepped into the auction hall, greeted by its grandeur—a spacious expanse adorned with intricate decor and a raised platform bathed in bright lights, showcasing the items up for auction.
Rows of chairs filled the hall, providing comfortable seating for attendees, while large screens displayed real-time updates on bidding activity, keeping everyone informed and engaged.
The fifth in rank and the leader of Ember City - Mrs. Luz Yap welcomed us.
While offering handshakes, "Mr. Castro, Mr. Laurel, and Mr. Lopez, it's an honor to have you here in this event. Allow me to lead you to your seats," Mrs. Luz Yap politely showed us the way.
"The main item for our auction today is a private island located between Ember City and Conflagro City. Half of the proceeds will be given to Ember Orphanage while half will go to the organizer to cover the auction expenses. If you have any questions, feel free to ask me," Mrs. Yap patiently explained to us.
Looking at her smiling face, I badly wanted to rip it apart. But I had to calm down and stop myself from getting enraged. I couldn't show her that I actually hated her.
Flashing a light smile, I told her, "Thank you for your kind gesture, Mrs. Yap. It's our honor to be here. We will make sure our coming here will be an eventful one."
"Well, then I hope you have a great night. Don't hesitate to look for me if you need something. I still have some guests to welcome. Please allow me to take my leave for now," she bowed her head and prepared to leave.
"Thank you, Mrs. Yap. You can take your time," I nodded at her.
As Mrs. Luz Yap left to greet other guests, I couldn't shake off the feeling of disdain simmering inside me. Despite my dislike for her, I knew I had to keep a calm facade.
The auction hall buzzed with excitement as attendees settled into their seats, eagerly anticipating the bidding war over the private island.
Taking a deep breath, I turned to Greg and Vince, exchanging nods of determination. We were here for a purpose, and we wouldn't let anything distract us from our goal.
Looking at the electronic clock hanging on the wall, the time had already reached 7:50 PM.
At this time, a beautiful lady wearing a white dress stepped onto the stage.
She held the microphone and smiled while saying, "Welcome to Ember City's First Auction of a Private Island. I'm Lilian Cruz, your tonight's auctioneer."
Thunderous applause rang out after that.
After the endless applause, she nodded her head slightly to express her gratitude and continued,
"Tonight's auction is co-organized by our Cruz Antique Hall and our very own Leader Mrs. Luz Yap,"
"And I, as tonight's auctioneer, will provide guidance and assistance throughout the auction. I know that the majority of you have come to our auction for the Private Island,"
"So here I would like to introduce to you the specific rules of the auction tonight."
After saying that, she started to add: "There is no need for me to explain the basic rules so I will emphasize more about the payment rules."
"First of all, everyone has twenty minutes to transfer money after a successful bid.
If the payment does not arrive within twenty minutes, we will automatically cancel it and give the chance to the second highest bidder. If the second highest bidder still fails, the third highest bidder will get the chance and so on.
And those who fail to pay will lose the eligibility to continue bidding for the Private Island tonight!"
"Without further ado, let us begin," she announced, her tone carrying an air of authority.
"The first item up for bidding tonight is a rare masterpiece by renowned artist, Alex Kingsley."
"And the starting price is 2 million USD, since there are more overseas friends present today, we use USD as the unit for all bids,"
"With each bid increasing by at least half a million USD, please start bidding if you are an interested buyer!"
As the bidding commenced, the hall erupted into a flurry of activity. Voices clamored for attention, hands shot up in eager anticipation, and the atmosphere crackled with excitement.
"2.5 million USD," No.010 called out.
"3 million USD," No.035 countered.
The bidding war continued, each increment pushing the price higher and higher. With each raise of the paddle, the tension in the room mounted, until finally, the auctioneer declared, "Sold, for 12 million USD!"
A ripple of applause filled the hall as the winning No.012 bidder celebrated their triumph. But there was little time for rest as the auctioneer swiftly moved on to the next item.
As the auctioneer unveiled each new item, the atmosphere in the hall crackled with anticipation. Bidders leaned forward in their seats, eyes alight with excitement as they awaited the next coveted lot.
"Up next, we have a stunning piece of jewelry," the auctioneer announced, holding up a glittering necklace for all to see.
"Crafted from the finest diamonds and set in exquisite platinum, this is a true masterpiece of design."
Bidding erupted as eager buyers vied for ownership of the dazzling piece. Voices rose in a crescendo of fervor, each bid punctuated by the sharp rap of the gavel. I glanced around the room, taking in the sight of determined faces locked in fierce competition.
As the night wore on and the auction continued, each new item brought with it a fresh wave of excitement and competition.
Until finally, it was now time for the final auction item for tonight: the Private Island.
The screen showed footage of the two bridges connecting to the island. One from the east, Ember City, and the second from the west, Conflagro City.
The crystal-clear blue waters of the ocean came into view, their waves gracefully dancing toward the shore of pristine white sand. The natural landscape of the surroundings was truly breathtaking, as if one were in paradise.
"The starting price of this Private Island is 50 million USD with each bid increasing by 10 million. Please start bidding if you are an interested buyer!"
As the auctioneer's voice filled the room, the tension reached its peak. All eyes were fixed on the screen and the bidding paddle, waiting for the first offer to be made.