69 – The Auction!
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PART 1 – Arriving for the auction!
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Skarla became an important guest upon her arrival in the Yggdrasil Kingdom, and due to her ability to surpass the elf queen's expectations, she consistently received invitations to spend the night with her.
And as the days went by, important guests from various kingdoms on the continent arrived—extremely wealthy merchants as well as people from other continents.
Grisaliel knows how to use her millennia-old contacts to promote her Auction House. She herself called in a few favors to spice up the items even more this time, which attracted even more wealthy buyers.
The kingdom's intercontinental teleportation matrix was being used constantly, and with each passing day, Skarla felt the presence of three or four Legendary beings appearing.
The situation was rapidly intensifying, indicating that Grisaliel had invested significantly more effort than was necessary. Since Skarla is satisfied, she doesn't realize the reason is simple.
Grisaliel boasts a harem of over 2,000 men and women, yet only a handful are able to elicit an orgasm from her, a feat shared by many Elven Kings and Queens across various continents.
She views sex as a hobby, partly due to the abundance of time available to her as a High-Elf, who by nature has a lifespan of 1000-1500 years. Once she achieves the legendary level, she can significantly extend her life expectancy, potentially living for several millennia.
Elves are the closest race to immortality, but that's a lie. Fortunately, their own culture prevents them from being bored. Another factor would be the “Training” to gain the achievement and the free attribute points; they take much longer to achieve the same, and their initial attributes tend to be lower.
Naturally, such a long-lived and powerful race needs some disadvantages to maintain balance. But that doesn't matter, because ancient Elves are the pinnacle of wisdom and knowledge.
That's why anything that brings them curiosity and satisfaction is always precious, making elves get attached very quickly, but they also get bored very quickly. Now the question is: How long before Grisaliel tires of Skarla?
......
The Seahorse Continent is in a relatively safe part of the world, with few natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, and so on. It is also quite peaceful and has never seen the birth of absurd talents in terms of magic or swordplay.
Many of the greatest individuals who made their mark on the continent ended up being people who came from other continents. So even though many legends have emerged, along with powerful individuals who have made history, the continent, in the eyes of ancient and powerful beings, is nothing more than a low-level continent.
The dungeons are of low quality, with none dangerous enough to give birth to legendary individuals. That's why Skarla herself isn't interested in the continent's dungeons - at her level, they won't be much use.
It's more engaging to pursue wild and infamous creatures, as they offer significantly more experience points. But unfortunately, she's not the only one after these creatures, because even though she asks the empire for information, they restrict her, as they believe Skarla is thinking of using them for her subordinates.
Naturally, they don't want Skarla and her allies to get any stronger.
The situation on other continents varies. In addition to not generating enough Legendary beings every century, the Seahorse Continent is also considered medium-sized.
That's why no Sovereign Nation was interested in conquering it; there were no attractive reasons or resources for doing so. But there is another reason: its location is good in many ways, especially strategically.
The Seahorse Continent is in proximity to three major continents.
Korintrus, being to the east of the continent. A massive continent, 2 to 3 times larger than Seahorse, with 3 great empires in constant conflict over the sovereignty of the continent.
Miguel, lying to the south of the continent. A continent slightly larger than Seahorse, conquered by the Sobreana nation Miguel. The continent and nation were named after the Immortal Sovereign, Miguel, who has been alive for over 2,000 years and still rules over the continent. Many say he is a dragon, and others say he is an elf in disguise, but everyone knows that below a demigod, he is perhaps the strongest.
Singuepa, being to the northwest of the continent. The largest continent near Seahorse, potentially 5 times its size. Governed by a Sovereign Nation, Assmorus, which has been suffering for the last few centuries from an endless emergence of undead. The entire continent is enveloped in a sea of death, where the Radiant Church has a lot of influence, which has increased in recent months.
In addition to the 3 Great Continents, which are the closest, creating a triangular zone around Seahorse, there are also dozens of islands of varying sizes, some as big as Yggdrasil.
But what makes Seahorse strategically important, given that we're discussing continents, is the vast distance between each one, with only the sea separating them.
What truly adds value to Seahorse is its proximity to the three continents and its ability to serve as a sea route through numerous islands, allowing for easier connections with these continents.
If any of the three big continents were interested in conquering Seahorse, others would prevent it because, as well as giving their enemies more territory and strength, it would give them an extremely lucrative sea route to get in touch with their rivals elsewhere.
In case you haven't understood. The three continents form a triangle around Seahorse, and despite their numerous blind spots, they maintain great control over the sea on their safest routes, as their greatest fear is naturally posed by colossal sea creatures.
Whether you like it or not, traveling by sea will take you through the maritime territory of these three continents. Seahorse is what connects the 3; it brings some neutrality and serves as a shield so that conflicts don't arise.
Even if they do arise, it will be between two continents, not all three at once, because if that were the case, the battlefield would end up being Seahorse, which wouldn't be able to withstand the combat of three such powerful continents.
In addition to this triangle, there's the Radiant Church Center, other continents of varying sizes and powers, dungeons in the middle of the sea, and much more.
Seahorse is a weak continent, unable to capitalize on its unique location. However, this is beginning to change, thanks to a single individual who is drawing significant attention to the continent and introducing numerous magical and technological innovations.
......
The day had finally arrived, and the capital of Yggdrasil was extremely lively and animated. Grisaliel knows how to be a great hostess, taking the opportunity to introduce Skarla to many of her acquaintances.
Skarla met many powerful and influential people, some of whom she was interested in fighting; even though she knows she will win, she wants to study more of the power of this world, the abilities, and the various effects of magical items and relics.
She has many things she wants to test, but she doesn't have the right opponents.
Unfortunately, she's here to auction her things, not pick fights.
...
“Hello Skarla, long time no see.” - A calm and serene voice sounded, and a handsome, tall, blond man approached.
“Archbishop Enrico, it's great to see you.” - Skarla smiled at the handsome man, ignoring the slender, beautifully dressed figure beside her.
Enrico smiled as he greeted her, making room for Teresa to greet Skarla too. - “It's always good to see you, Skarla.” - She said smiling, but you could see that it was forced.
Skarla smiled back. - “I agree.” - She replied, confirming that it was good to see 'Skarla' and not 'Teresa'.
"Hello, envoys of the Radiant Church, our former business companions, your VIP area has already been prepared for the auction. And it's an honor to welcome a Saint to my humble Auction House.” - Grisaliel smiled as he welcomed them.
...
A beautiful young woman with white hair and crimson eyes arrived, a crown of red jewels on her head—something more precious than rubies. Kaleria Zenirys had just arrived, puffing out her chest and looking superior to everyone here.
“Queen Grisaliel, long time no see, but I see you're still as beautiful as ever.” - Kaleria said lightly, a subtle smile on her lips.
Grisaliel, with a sharp gaze, smiled. - “Empress Kaleria, thank you for the compliment, but it's you who should be complimented; you're still young and beautiful; you have to tell me your secrets.” - She teased, implying more than just beauty and health tips.
Kaleria laughed lightly. - “Of course, but only if you tell me yours first. Someone so experienced certainly has a lot to tell this little girl.”
Grisaliel laughed, slightly irritated by the implication of her words.
Skarla stood to one side, watching the two exchange barbs; they certainly have a long history. Even Hackel had never seen his mother act like this. - [“I think they have an incredible relationship.”] - She informed Skarla.
["Amazing relationship? They hate each other, but at the same time they see each other as equals... I think... I hardly believe that Grisaliel sees anyone as her equal, except in terms of strength."] - Skarla replied.
["My mother tries to crush anyone she sees as an enemy or rival; she hates anyone being equal to her or above her. My mother is extremely selfish and vindictive."] - Hackel smiled slightly.
Skarla shrugged. - [“Your mother must hate me then.”]
["She doesn't see you as an equal, so she must despise you. She understands that strength isn't everything in this world, so for her, an equal is someone who challenges her intellectually without needing to use force to solve problems. So she doesn't even consider you an enemy, but... I think that will change after today, so it's good to be careful."] - Hackel warned her and Skarla decided to write it down.
[“What a strange concept of friendship.”] - Skarla laughed.
“Is something funny?” - Kaleria gave her an inquisitive look.
“I was talking to someone, and they said something funny.” - Skarla smiled slightly.
“Oh, but I didn't see you open your mouth.” - Kaleria narrowed her eyes.
[“I don't have to.”] - Skarla smiled at her, Kaleria frowned, lightly rubbing a ring on her finger.
["I'm not using mind control or attacks; this is a simple voice transmission through energy, which I send into your head; your eardrums filter and decode the message I wish to convey. In other words, I use vibrations in the air to transmit messages—something basic, so your mental protection artifact is useless."]
Kaleria was surprised. - “Should I be worried?” - She narrowed her eyes.
“I'm not the type who likes sound techniques; I can indeed use it to attack, but I'm not very well versed in it, it uses up a lot of energy and can be easily nullified by covering my ears. Of course, for someone with your level of power and martial knowledge, there's not much you can do.” - Skarla smiled slightly; Kaleria frowned.
Grisaliel didn't like being left out, but she didn't say anything.
...
Many incredible figures appeared, but many didn't even bother to look Skarla in the face but gave due respect to Grisaliel.
Even though Skarla is a Legend, in Seahorse, she is something of a rarity; on larger continents, even if it is an incredible feat, there are a significant number, and as Skarla is from Seahorse, she loses a lot of credibility.
In other words, the continent from which Skarla hails determines her value.
However, one rather handsome individual stood out, boasting beautiful blond hair and pretty blue eyes. He wore luxurious clothes and had a majestic aura around him.
[Image] →
He bowed to Grisaliel and kissed the back of her palm. He then attempted to do the same to Skarla, but she refused. - “I have nothing against you; I just don't like that particular length.” - She explained.
“Oh, I understand. But it's an honor to meet you, Marquise Skarla. I believe you know me, but I'll introduce myself anyway. I'm Argus Torwin; it's a great honor.” - Argus again bowed at length.
“It's an honor to meet you, prince; I've heard a lot about you. I would have preferred our meeting to take place at a less chaotic time, but it's good to meet you.” - Skarla smiled calmly.
“I'm grateful for your words; the feeling is mutual. I'm also grateful for your letter, because without you on the battlefield, things are more balanced and fewer sacrifices are made.”
“It may not seem like it, but I'm not the type who likes killing; even if I like fighting, I prefer to face those who are stronger; massacres are not my thing. I hope you enjoy what will be auctioned off today.”
Argus smiled happily. - “I'm sure I'll be pleased, but I have my doubts as to whether I'll be able to buy anything with so many incredible people attending.”
...
Skarla hardly approached the guests; she was only there to memorize faces and talk to those who started a conversation with her. Grisaliel introduced her to those he knew would be receptive, which were few.
Skarla paid close attention to the envoys from the 3 Great Continents, all of them Legends.
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PART 2 – Auction Start & Find!
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The Auction House was packed, all the VIP rooms occupied, and those in the center could feel the powerful presence in the air, the gazes of so many legendary figures in one place.
There were also the independent Legends, who didn't get a VIP space because they were in the middle of so many people trying to hide and were slightly annoyed by such stares.
Skarla avoided investigating each individual in detail because legends have keen senses, and if they noticed her gaze, they could cause problems. Moreover, numerous individuals likely possessed items that evaded detection.
Suddenly the lights went out, and the place was filled with silence. Faint lights soon illuminated the audience, making them visible when they raised their signs.
The main source of light illuminated the large stage, highlighting a beautiful female figure in the center. She is beautiful, stealing the attention of everyone here. Her long, silky white hair is as pure as snow. Bright sky-blue eyes that seem to see into the souls of everyone in the audience, beautiful deer antlers sticking out of her forehead, and a perfect, attractive figure.
[Image] →
Skarla was surprised, detecting this woman's strength... She's weak; she's probably not even level 10, but she's so close to nature... - 'She's perfect for Martial Arts...'
“Who is she?” - Skarla asked, pointing to the elf on stage.
“She? She's my youngest daughter; her name is Tifariel.” - Grisaliel said proudly, but noticed that Skarla's gaze was not that of a woman seeing something beautiful, but something precious. - “Know that she is already betrothed and even has the lineage of a Snow Elf.”
“I don't covet your daughter's body. Only that I sense an extraordinary talent coming from her; I believe that except for my sons who have not yet developed, your daughter's talent is the greatest I have ever seen in my life.” - Skarla swallowed her saliva, even doubting whether her children would have such talent.
Grisaliel smiled but didn't understand the implication.
“Is her talent greater than mine?” - Hackel asked, as he had received many compliments from Skarla while under her tutelage, telling him that of all the people she had taught, she was the most talented.
Skarla thought and said. - “If I were in her body, given the same time and opportunities, I would be 3-4 times stronger than I am now. In your case, if you possessed her talent, you could reach the level of a Master before level 5.”
Hackel's eyes widened as Grisaliel struggled to comprehend the words. - “Are you going to try to take her as a disciple?” - Hackel asked.
“No. Her talent is too great; I'm afraid that in 100 or 200 years, she'll surpass me.” - Skarla didn't mince words.
“Okay, calm down. Is it true that my daughter will surpass you in 100 or 200 years? What kind of nonsense is that?” - Grisaliel couldn't stand it any longer.
“You know, everyone on the continent knows that I practice mysterious techniques, right?” - Skarla asked, and Grisaliel confirmed it. - “These techniques of mine can be learned by anyone, but in addition to their attributes, my techniques require other kinds of talents that our attribute points can't measure.”
“In simple terms, let's say we have 2 people, one who was born with all their attributes at 20, the other who was born with all their attributes at 10. Naturally, the one with 20 in everything will be good at everything they do, but they only have an above-average talent for practicing my techniques. This person will still be strong and get stronger; you could say that Hackel fits this type. Next we have the person who was born with a 10 in everything but surprisingly has an abnormal affinity with my techniques. Let's say I fit that type.”
“If we give each person 100 years to train, they'll reach Level 20 at the end of those 100 years. Both having the same opportunities, luck, and XP. The logic is to think that Hackel would be ahead, and in fact, at the beginning she would be far ahead because of her advantage in attributes, but there would come a time when she would stagnate. In my case, I would surpass her at the latest, as my talent for my techniques would help me to far surpass the talent and luck that Hackel was born with.”
“My techniques require talent and time; of course, there's a lot more behind it. Your daughter, I can feel that she has a unique affinity with my techniques. I also feel that her body is more than I can imagine. I believe your daughter was born with a Unique Ability, if she doesn't know that, she's either hiding it or doesn't know about it, which implies a dormant Unique Ability.” - Skarla said calmly.
The closest thing to this in Murim would be a “Celestial Constitution”. People who are born with more than just talent but the incredible luck to have bodies that are perfect for Martial Arts.
Hackel has a perfect body for Martial Arts, but in front of someone with a Celestial Constitution, she's nothing more than an ant who wants to compare herself to a beautiful butterfly.
And Skarla fits the bill too. She has undergone body reconstruction, but even with that, she doesn't match the advantages and potential of a Celestial Constitution.
In other words, she's at the Intermediate Level of “Perfect Body for Martial Arts”, Hackel is at the Low Level... Tifariel is 2 levels above Skarla... maybe 3...
Grisaliel didn't understand the concepts being spoken since Skarla tried to keep everything open, explaining it simply, but without understanding the peculiarities of the technique, it's hard to get a sense.
“Is my daughter that special? I know she has a great talent for Water and Ice Magic, but what you say doesn't make sense, and... she was born with a fragile body, not good for fighting on the front line.” - Grisaliel was confused.
“My techniques go beyond just fighting on the front line. I'm sorry to bring it up, but let's put it aside. You have a fine daughter, and I wish her a happy and prosperous future.” - Skarla said lightly.
“You dropped a bomb in my face, and now you want me to let it go?” - Grisaliel growled slightly.
“It's the best. Your daughter's talent is too monstrous, to the point where I fear what she might become in the future. Even if I'm curious, I'd rather avoid it.” - Skarla sighed, but she did fear what Tifariel might become in 100~200 years.
Grisaliel was irritated and wanted more details, but she was aware that Skarla wouldn't provide them, so she had to accept them while the first auction item, a magic flute, was selling.
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PART 3 – Great Bids!
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“The second item of the day will be a sword, but this one is rather special, as it has no enchantment, and from the details that have been given, it is a weapon to be used by Masters and above!” - Tifariel smiled, and the fabric was removed from the top of the item.
A simple sword lay in the center, no one seeing anything very special about it.
“Let me read out to everyone what the auctioneer asked me to tell you. This is a perfect sword for Aura Masters, it is able to perfectly withstand the full power of their aura and amplify it, and it is made of high-quality materials to withstand the power of a Legend's Aura. The method used in its manufacture is also quite unique, allowing up to 3 Legendary Level Enchantments, a sword that, depending on how much you invest, can become an Artifact!” - Tifariel looked astonished as she read, doubt rising in the audience below.
“Since many are in doubt, I'll even ask my cousin to go up and test it for herself.” - Tifariel smiled, and Myriel climbed up, as indifferent as ever.
She held the sword and injected her aura; automatically, several people in the audience stood up, including those in the VIP areas. Myriel indifferently widened her eyes.
For those below Master level, they are not able to perceive the nuances and differences, but even one who has just become a Master can see the difference.
Aura is an extremely powerful skill; the problem is that once you acquire it, most weapons become useless, and you have to go after even more precious and rare materials to forge your weapons so that their resistance and energy output can withstand your aura.
Legends use artifacts, to the point where there are exclusive enchantments for weapons or armor to support the user's aura. Naturally, adding such enchantments to items is extremely expensive, often requiring two enchantment slots, a luxury that only a few items can afford.
But now, this sword, without any enchantments, has the ability to support the aura of a centuries-old elf who is close to Legendary Level. Her aura control is no small feat.
And the most frightening thing... 3 Legendary Spell slots. Greed became apparent in the eyes of many.
“Can I test it?” - A calm voice came from the audience; a tall, thin man approached, having an extraordinary presence. - “I'm a Legendary Swordsman, this sword is very attractive to me, but I want to know if it really can withstand a Legendary Aura. Not that I'm suspicious; anyone can see that the product is real, but I like to be sure.”
Tifariel narrowed her eyes and looked up. - “Permission granted!” - Grisaliel said, smiling. - “Of course!” - Tifariel said.
The man stepped up onto the stage, receiving the sword from Myriel's hands, then activated his aura, which made many narrow their eyes; it was powerful and sharp. Skarla was amazed; this swordsman was strong.
He was smiling as he watched the sword receive its Aura, it didn't vibrate or show any signs of breaking. He swung it, experiencing a flawless swing. - “I don't know who made this sword, but it's worthy of being called a Legendary Blacksmith, perhaps... Divine Blacksmith.”
He handed the sword back. - "Unfortunately, it's a short sword; I'm willing to fight for it, but could you please tell me who auctioned this sword? I'd like to know if you take orders.”
Tifariel looked up again. - “I think you should wait until the 10th item has been auctioned, after which, if you're not satisfied, we can negotiate.” - Grisaliel's voice rang out.
“I'm grateful.” - The swordsman returned to his seat.
“Now that the interruptions have stopped, we'll start the bidding at 20,000 Gold Coins!”
“30.000!” - The swordsman said without hesitation.
“32.000!” - Another person in the audience chimed in.
“40.000!” - Someone from the VIP areas chimed in.
A bidding war broke out, with the price of the sword quickly passing 100,000 Gold Coins.
Skarla watched as they fought over a faulty item. Berard has made half a dozen swords like this; this was the 3rd most decent. He works hard, and for the people of this world, everything he makes is worthy of being a masterpiece, but for Skarla, who has a finer control of energy, it's better to use only her fists.
If she had the same level of energy control as these people, she would also use these swords, but the difference is too great. However, Berard continues to improve and is getting closer to creating something that meets her expectations.
By making a sword or other weapon for herself, Skarla could make Berard even more desperate and humiliated, but she won't because she won't destroy a talent.
...
The value quickly stagnated at 183,000 Gold Coins. There were no more bids for the abandoned artifact; the price was already excessive, especially considering the need to locate Enchanters.
The winner of the sword was someone from the VIP area, likely from a different nation.
Subsequently, the third item surfaced, a spear of the same quality as the sword previously auctioned off. The bidding war resumed, the price rising to 150,000 in moments but slowing down until it ended at 175,000.
The 4th auction item was an axe, similar in quality to the previous 2 items, selling for 180,000.
The blacksmith's 5th and final item was a shield, which could withstand 4 Legendary Enchantments, having incredible resistance and impact dispersion. The price jumped to 200,000 very quickly, then started to slow down, stopping at 264,000 Gold Coins.
So far, Skarla has acquired 802,000 Gold Coins, of course, there will be a reduction, which is the Auction House's share, which is 5%, so there will be 761,900 still available.
From the 6th to the 9th items, they were magical items, mostly accessories, which were not as attractive as the previous items, which caused the Auction House to receive some insults.
How could they present 4 such valuable items only to suddenly present 4 ordinary items. The fact that they were accessories, and their price was significantly lower than that of the spear, was what saved them.
However, the tenth item appeared.
“As many of you have heard, the 10th item is something quite special, linked to items numbers 2 to 5 in today's auction. It's a Custom Order. With this, you will be able to request an appointment with the Blacksmith and exclusively ask for any item to be forged, but understand that the purchase of this item in question will only be the service fee; the necessary materials or extras, you will have to adjust with the Blacksmith himself.”
In other words, if you want to use extremely rare materials, you'll have to give them to the Blacksmith or pay extra for him to go after them.
“The starting price will be 100,000 Gold Coins.” - Tifariel smiled, and Grisaliel laughed when she heard this, as the starting price was supposed to be 50,000.
“500.000!” - The swordsman from before raised the plaque in his hand without hesitation. Immediately, many individuals on the verge of bidding fell silent. Even those in the VIP area decided to give up; it's too expensive to meet a blacksmith.
Finally, they can request a meeting with Grisaliel or seek advice on how to locate the blacksmith in question.
In one of the VIP areas, Kaleria was rubbing her temple, aware that a mysterious blacksmith, capable of crafting items perfect for use by Masters and Legends, could be associated with none other than Skarla.
In other words, more than 1 million has just gone into her pockets. Kaleria laughed bitterly, realizing that the mountain will appreciate in value, and being sure that the percentages of the shares will be auctioned off, she could already imagine the exorbitant price that each one would fetch.
...
More items began to be auctioned off, from unique collector's items to potions of the highest quality, which included some elixirs that permanently increased one's Health and Energy, some Elixirs called “Supplements” that accelerated the training rate to acquire the Conquest by 10 times.
It goes without saying that they all sold for exorbitant prices. Even those who only came out of respect for Grisaliel found this auction interesting; the items were absurdly good.
Skarla smiled as millions flowed into her pocket. However, the final item was about to be auctioned off. The auction will feature a collection of 50 distinct items. The team brought in a large canvas and pulled away the fabric, revealing 50 pieces of paper with magical auras surrounding them.
“Before we tell you what each Contract represents, let's give it some context.” - Tifariel smiled as she picked up the envelope she was about to open. She gave it a quick read, startled and laughing. - “That's absurd, but here we go.”
"Items 2 to 5, along with item number 10, are accompanied by items 13, 14, 15, 19, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31, 32..." - Tifariel started about 1/3 of the items auctioned today.
“All the numbers of items I've just mentioned were auctioned by the same individual.” - His words took everyone by surprise, including Kaleria, who had expected something absurd.
“And it is reported that all the items mentioned are mostly experimental products. The weapons and armor forged by the same genius blacksmith are nothing more than products made in the last year, all of them flaws. The elixirs are experiments with no side effects, but only a small part of what the final product will actually be. Mechanical and magical engineering items are prototypes and are expected to be improved over the next few years. All these items were produced in the Krugar Mountains.”
While many in the know were shocked, most people were unaware of the location of the Krugar Mountains.
“For those who don't know, the Krugar Mountains is an ancient tribal area that has been at war with the Zenirys Empire for the last few centuries but which was recently conquered by a legendary figure called Skarla Verona, the owner of all the items auctioned today.” - A map was brought out, and Tifariel pointed out where the Krugar Mountains are.
“I think it's my time now.” - A quiet voice sounded, leaving Tifariel shocked as Skarla stood next to her. Many others frowned and stood at attention as they didn't notice when Skarla took the stage.
Tifariel recognized her, nodding and giving her space. - “Hello everyone, I'm Skarla Verona, who auctioned off 1/3 of the items listed today, and I'm grateful to everyone who bought my items, a lot of money.”
Skarla earned more than 20 million in gold from the sale of all the items together, not including the Auction House's percentage.
“But I'll get straight to the point. All the items shown before are merely advertisements; what I really plan to sell are these 50 contracts.” - Skarla pointed out. - “In the Krugar Mountains, I'm setting up my own unusual method of government; among these laws I use, I divide groups and companies into [Shares], where they can be sold separately as items. There are complex concepts behind this, but know that by having [Shares] of a certain company, you will be entitled to a share of its profits, as well as decision-making.”
“Specifically, I'm selling 0.1% per contract of the Trade Route Shares in the Krugar Mountains. That will only give you a small part of the tax profit, but understand that the contracts are for life, so you can receive it continuously as long as the mountains exist; you can pass it on to your children and grandchildren, sell it to others, and much more. An infinite income of money, so to speak, where how much you receive will be in line with the prosperity of the mountains.”
“But what I'm really selling with these shares is not a small piece of the Trade Route's annual tax profits, but opportunity!” - Skarla smiled and could see Kaleria raging.
“I have plans for the Krugar Mountains to be neutral; I don't long to rule the continent, become Sovereign, or anything like that; too much of a headache. I want to fill the world with my ideas and spread all kinds of knowledge to make us stronger, as well as making life easier, while I naturally get richer.” - Skarla laughed.
“So here we have the opportunity to interfere on this continent, a reason to send your non-military forces here, being able to take a piece of the knowledge I'll be willing to spread, and of course, you'll have priority in buying future shares in various companies I'll create in the future.”
“And these companies are what I'm showing you, as you've seen some of the products they've produced, being forged items, alchemicals, engineering, elixirs, and much more. There will be dozens of companies focused on the study and creation of various items and materials, companies that will need massive investment and support to succeed. Those who buy into the opportunities will invest in these companies, giving them a base, and then they can personally invest in them, buying large chunks of the companies, having exclusive access to the items that will be produced, being able to take the recipes and prototypes back to their nations, produce them themselves, I don't mind.”
“Each contract will sell for 1 million in gold. Now it's up to you whether you appreciate this opportunity or let it slip away. There are 50 opportunities.” - Skarla smiled while those inhabitants of the continent who understood were terrified.
Skarla is giving justification for other continents to interfere with hers. Kaleria was laughing; she couldn't hold back her laughter at such absurdity.
Then the bidding began, which was a real war; even Grisaliel joined the battle, already expecting something like this but not expecting that it would be even more valuable than he imagined.
The envoys from the 3 Great Continents, who had always kept a watchful eye on the Seahorse Continent, were the ones most interested in this and could now legitimately interfere.
Naturally, they wouldn't buy just 0.1% because they understood that the more they had, the fewer people would have the same opportunity.
Consequently, the bidding war intensified, resulting in the sale of the first 0.1% for 3.6 million. The second being sold for 4 million...
Many watched in shock as representatives of nations and large merchant groups were spending millions in gold for 0.1% shares that nobody understands yet.
In the end, the minimum price for the 50 million share contracts came to an exorbitant 138.3 million.
In just one auction, Skarla managed to get more than 150 million in gold. Many who bought the shares were even amazed at how much money a single person had made in one night.
Skarla was naturally very calm. Having planned everything, she admits she wouldn't have gotten much without Grisaliel. At most she would have gotten 100 million.
It goes without saying that after today, she will attract even more attention.
She's embarking on a challenging and perilous journey; failure to exercise caution could lead to her downfall. But she has an advantage because everyone underestimates her, thinking she's a barbarian who's too greedy.
Unfortunately for them, Skarla is very intelligent.