The Fire Core sold at 760 gold to a rotund man in yellow robes who looked far too proud of himself. The attendants wheeled the pedestal away with practiced grace, and soon, the second item took its place.
"Next," the auctioneer said, his voice rising slightly, "we present a blade forged by the renowned smith Avel Droan of the Sunfire Principality."
That name drew genuine reaction.
Even Arianne raised a brow. "Avel Droan?" she murmured. "Now that's impressive. His work rarely circulates in the kingdom."
Michael didn't react outwardly.
"Avel Droan forged this weapon thirty-one years ago," the auctioneer continued, as an attendant removed the silk cover. "The blade has since changed hands six times… and now, it finds its way to our humble chamber."
Gasps followed as the weapon was revealed.
