Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism

Chapter 129 Bidding Battles Irene and Anton took their places at the forefront of the auction round table, flanked by a translator and the auctioneer.

Irene, adorned in an elegantly altered black gown featuring discreet designs complemented by striking emerald green jewellery, sparkled magnificently.

Anton, lounging in his chair and dressed in attire that harmonised with Irene's, stood out alongside her as the only individual of Asian descent in the front row, their remarkable presence undisputed.

Occupying the central seats of the round table area were the Blakes: Mr. Blake, Mrs. Blake, and Zelena. Since their arrival, Zelena had busied herself with taking selfies.

She planned to showcase these photos at school after the auction's end, seizing this unique chance.

Soon after, a courteous staff member wearing a badge approached and communicated in Verdanise, "I apologise, madam, but we do not permit photography here. Notices around the area enforce this policy." But unfortunately, the Blake family, unfamiliar with Verdanise, could not comprehend the warning.

While interpreters were on hand at the auction, only individuals possessing assets surpassing 45 million dollars were eligible for this service. Consequently, others could only offer awkward smiles.

The staff member gestured towards the bilingual signage that clearly prohibited photography.

A sheepish Zelena then packed away her phone, albeit satisfied with the shots she had managed to capture beforehand.

The auction began without further delay.

A distinguished middle-aged woman with her hair in elegant coils took centre stage amongst the round table as auction staff showcased each item in succession.

This collection boasted an array of global rarities, with porcelain and jade jewellery taking the spotlight among the diverse selections, particularly emphasising the jade offerings.

Irene possessed a profound admiration for jade. Nearly all the pieces in her jewellery collection were crafted from this precious stone, varying in value from millions to tens of millions and even hundreds of millions of dollars. These jewellery pieces held not only considerable value for collection but also the potential for future appreciation.

The jade series finally took the spotlight as the auction items were presented individually.

In the back row, Mr. Blake whispered to his wife, "If the price is right, this journey will have been worthwhile." Turning to Zelena, Mrs. Blake conveyed, "Lena, let us know if anything catches your eye later, and it'll be yours." Gratefully, Zelena acknowledged with a "Thank you, Mom and Dad." Simultaneously, in the front row, Irene's thoughts drifted to purchasing a souvenir for Violeta.

Thinking of her daughter elicited a deep yearning, and she voiced, "Darling, with and the others away, I miss our little girl terribly. Should we cacross an item fitting for Vio, let's secure it for her." Anton concurred, "Definitely, we'll contact her once we're back at the hotel." Jade is known for its various hues, with the most sought-after imperial green. Irene possessed several pieces of green jewellery, but green attire could make a young girl look older and more substantial, making it a less desirable choice for the youthful Violeta.

Yet, shades of purple are particularly fitting for young women. Purple jade, or amethyst, boasts an exceptionally appealing hue.

When the auctioneer unveiled a violet bangle, it immediately caught Irene's attention.

"This is ideal. It's just right for my Vio," she remarked.

Anton was equally captivated and gestured for the auctioneer to go ahead. Following the brief introduction, the bidding was set to begin. Zelena, positioned towards the back, also admired the violet bangle! It was breathtaking! Wearing it to school, she would undoubtedly becthe centre of envy; even Hattie would be jealous! Zelena quickly turned to Mrs. Blake and exclaimed, "Mom, I need this bangle. It's gorgeous." Mrs. Blake glanced at the bangle on the table and agreed, stating, "Truly, let's wait and see the final bid." After presenting the bangle on the sophisticated circular table, the auctioneer introduced it and declared the opening bid of 1.2 million dollars.

Hearing the starting price, Mrs. Blake and Mr. Blake shared a look of agreement, knowing it was within their spending range.

Yet, before they could bid, a confident bidder in the front row swiftly raised their paddle, proposing 1.8 million dollars.

This was a substantial jump of six hundred thousand dollars! 1.8 million dollars could have easily purchased a house in Quinston, but now it appeared to buy just a bangle.

It was akin to donning a mini-mansion on one's wrist.

Although the Blake family had the means, they sensed the purchase might be lavish.

Such a pricey bangle would serve more as a display piece at hand add to their collection.

Driven by resolve, Zelena bit her lip and decided to bid, "1.95 million dollars." Zelena was unable to hide her excitement as she observed the auction.

The auctioneer from the White family, positioned at the front goticed an front, resolute bidder in the back row raising their paddle. "2.25 million dollars" was the offer.

It is a recognised fact that rarity contributes to an item's value, making each bangle uniquely invaluable.

Moved by emotion, Zelena softly squeezed Mrs. Blake's hand. Feeling her daughter's steadfast support, Mrs. Blake once again lifted her paddle. "2.4 million dollars," she bid.

The expectation for multiple bidders to show interest in such a bangle was high, and it would have been a surprise if that were not if not the case.

Several other bidders entered the fray shortly, escalating the price well beyond the initial 2.4 million dollars and over the 3 million dollar threshold.