Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 2371

In theory, such things seemed impossible in this modern era of peace. Among martial artists, the rule was simple: strength justified everything. If someone with a bulletproof body and monstrous power caught wind of a treasure like this sitting unguarded, they would not hesitate.

Telling them to 'stay calm' or 'do the right thing' would only earn you a laugh and maybe a punch to the face. Then, relying on their martial prowess, they would simply kill the person, take the treasure, and disappear without a trace.

That was the true law of the world.

Even though Elsie had issued her warning, the moment the ninth-grade supreme elixir, the Marble Essence Pill, was revealed, Andrew clearly felt the entire atmosphere of the auction house shift dramatically.

The eyes of everyone present burned with an intensity that screamed desire, filled with barely concealed greed. Audible gulps could be heard, and the sound of heavy breathing filled the room.

"Come on, announce the starting bid already! How much are we talking here?" someone called out impatiently.

"Yes, give us the opening price! This Marble Essence Pill is something the Lake family absolutely must have!" another voice chimed in eagerly.

"A ninth-grade supreme elixir? You won't find these things in Sovereign's Apothecary even if you offered them your head on a platter! Who would be foolish enough to put something this valuable up for public sale?"

Someone exclaimed, "These kinds of treasures are only traded privately or kept for personal use!"

"Ladies and gentlemen, I'm asking for one more favor from everyone here. This pill is something that the Harding family truly desires…" Sergio's voice suddenly cut through.

Everyone was shocked. Earlier, Sergio had declared he wouldn't participate in the final bidding if they gave him face. Yet now, he was pretending those words never left his mouth, stepping right back into the spotlight as if nothing happened.

While her words sounded gracious enough, many people groaned inwardly.

Valerie was saying all the right things, but she was also making her intentions clear: her own auction house had its own interest in this item.

Now, everyone had to decide whether they should give her face and hold back, or compete openly. If they did not show respect to the Reyes family, how would future dealings with them go?

Elsie announced the starting bid. "300 million as the opening price! Ladies and gentlemen, please proceed. The highest bid takes the treasure."

Andrew leaned back in his suite with a relaxed expression, content to wait and see how this all played out. It seemed he would no longer need to stir the pot, as these people would tear each other apart on their own.