"Eleven million gold coins!"
The shout had barely crossed the Grand Auction House before Master Orwin turned toward the raised paddle and extended one hand. "Eleven million from House Varell's representative. Do I hear twelve?"
"Twelve million," the Iron Fang representative answered from the central seats, his expression tightening as several heads turned toward him.
Before Orwin could repeat the amount, a grey-haired Knight seated near the front lifted his number. "Thirteen million."
"Thirteen million from Sir Aldren Marr," Orwin announced, his voice carrying easily through the hall. "We began at three million, ladies and gentlemen, and Starfall Severance appears determined to prove that none of you came here intending to behave responsibly."
Laughter broke some of the tension, but nobody watching the sword looked relaxed. Starfall Severance remained upon its stand beneath the stage lights, its black blade scattered with silver specks like stars.
