Chapter 194 A Game with No Losers
Steam came out of the white ceramic teapot, and the temperature in the room was rising rapidly.
At the same time, the same was true in the venue downstairs. An invisible bloody war was changing from a battle of golden drums to a hand-to-hand fight.
The faces in the hall were like red-hot coals, even replacing the blazing fireplace, heating up the air in the entire venue.
At first, the wealthy people on Queen Street were still participating in the bidding competition, but as the price gradually approached the 100,000 mark, even they who were wealthy could not help but feel nervous and weigh whether it was worth it.
At the same time, the nobles sitting on the second floor were just the opposite. The higher and higher prices did not calm them down, but made them even more fanatical.
As the Earl of Nanxi Valley's servant raised the price to 300,000 yuan, the atmosphere at the scene reached a climax.
Andor's eyes were wide open as he sat on the edge of the venue, and his neck was as red as pig's liver. His daughter Lucy, who was holding his arm, couldn't catch a breath and threw her head back and fainted.
And it was not just their family that had a similar situation happen to them, the entire venue was filled with voices of exclamation one after another.
「Three hundred thousand once!」
The host took the handkerchief from the waiter's hand and wiped the sweat from his forehead. Before he could shout out the next sentence, another shout came from the audience that made his heart rise to his throat.
A servant in a satin dress raised the sign in his hand.
Judging from the gold embroidery of the sword and spear on his shoulder, he is a servant of Earl Granston of North Vale in the Principality of Campbell.
While shouting out this quotation, the servant looked around casually, and finally looked at the dumbfounded host, signaling him to do what he should do quickly.
The host, who had just woken up from a dream, hurriedly threw away his handkerchief and picked up the gavel. At this moment, the Earl of Nanxi Valley, Winkton, who was sitting on the second floor, frowned with thick eyebrows.
Two people were competing with each other.
Looking at the irrational price, Andes rubbed the ring on his index finger. Although the expression on his face remained calm and composed, hot sweat still broke out on his forehead.
It seems that both he and the respected Mr. Colin are still too conservative, completely underestimating the wealth and vanity of the nobles of the Principality of Campbell.
Three hundred and fifty thousand gold coins!
For a big city like Thunder City with a population of one million, based on an annual income of 4 gold coins (24,000 copper coins) per capita and a tax rate of nearly 30%, without considering import and export taxes, commercial taxes and consumption taxes, the annual income tax is only 720,000 gold coins!
The income of counties ruled by feudal lords is often not so high. For example, the income of the villages around Thunder City is only tens of thousands of coins a year.
If they continue to bid, they might be able to spend several years of their county's income in one go!
After repeatedly weighing the pros and cons, Andes finally made up his mind and raised the sign in his hand.
At the same time, he couldn't help shouting in his heart.
Saint Sis is up there!
Its value is already expensive enough and cannot continue to expand. Anyone, please come and stop these crazy guys!
The atmosphere at the scene was boiling. Punk clenched his fists and widened his eyes, looking at this absurd world he had never seen before.
In the corner of the venue, Andor stood up excitedly and almost threw his daughter who was holding his arm away.
Ten Morning Embrace hotels!
He thought that he would be rich enough if he could get an invitation to the dinner, but he did not expect that he was still a dozen Queen Streets away from the real kingdom of heaven.
If the ten thousand gold coin pocket watch was still within his cognition, then the five hundred thousand gold coin completely made him lose his mind.
He and his deceased father would never make so much money even if they struggled for ten lifetimes!
Standing in the middle of the boiling crowd, the servants of the counts of North and South Valley almost unanimously cast their sights on Andes.
Their eyes narrowed slightly, flashing with danger in surprise, just like hungry wolves in the silver pine forest.
But they did not have an attack.
Because their master has not allowed them to do so yet.
Andes stood up quietly, turned around and bowed slightly to the guests behind him, then cleared his throat and spoke.
"Please forgive my gaffe. When I saw this diamond, my mind went blank. I had only one thought - only a real crown and an eternal legend are worthy of this shining light."
"Mr. Colin took it as a gift to Her Royal Highness the Princess and the Principality of Campbell, and as an ordinary citizen of Thunder City, I would like to use it as a gift to the noble Duke Edward, to congratulate that lord on his accession to the throne and the future prosperity of the Principality of Campbell!"
Just as his words fell, thunderous applause erupted in the venue.
The applause also calmed down the two nobles sitting in the box on the second floor, and resolved a conflict virtually.
Looking at Mr. Andes who sat down gracefully and the two servants who returned to their seats, Punk, who was sitting at the table and applauding, could only admire in his heart.
This remark not only gave the two earls enough face, but also implicitly pointed out that the two earls would be overstepping if they continued to fight. At the same time, it also favored the Campbell family.
Sure enough, no one continued to bid.
Of course.
What he admires most is his master, Mr. Colin.
Him A diamond was played out by that distinguished gentleman. He not only won the heart of the princess, but also used the prestige of the Campbell family to invisibly raise the price of the diamond. In the end, it was the Andes family's money that was spent, and the latter paid willingly.
The most important thing is that there is no loser in the end of this game. A diamond changes hands several times. Everyone gets what they want, and no one will hate his master because of it.
Amidst a round of applause, the host standing on the stage knocked the gavel for the third time, and finally threw away the gavel that had been soaked with sweat in relief, and announced the winner of this precious auction item.
Saint Sisius is above——
It’s finally over!
After so many years of working in the industry, this was the first time that he was so eager for the end that he could not say anything inspiring until the last moment.
The auction is still going on.
Manuscripts of well-known musicians, marble busts of unknown figures, lifelike oil paintings, or jewelry donated by a noble lady are gradually appearing.
Although these items were sold at a good price, they were still overshadowed by the shining "Eye of Erin", and together they were not as good as the pocket watch that first appeared.
Punk did not stay at the entire auction, but went to the balcony on the second floor at the agreed time and handed the pocket watch he got into the hands of Mr. Colin.
"Mr. Andes asked me to say hello to you on his behalf. In addition...he wants to make an appointment with you to discuss the future cooperation."
Luo Yan held the golden pocket watch in his hand and examined it for a moment. He used his "Alchemical Eyes" to gain insight into its internal structure and at the same time confirm his guess.
This so-called dwarven craft is no different from the common mechanical watches on the earth. The core is a tourbillon and a long spring, which recovers and stores power.
The relevant technologies on Earth were first born in the 18th century, and the level of civilization in Osland was around this time.
In addition, the dwarf who made this thing was quite thoughtful and set up a locking structure on the tourbillon. If it is violently removed, the metal parts inside will twist into a ball.
This is of little use for magic, but ordinary magicians won't delve into it.
For example, he is too lazy to study.
"Let's do it now." Closing the cover of the watch, Luo Yan stuffed the pocket watch into his pocket and said while looking at Punk who was waiting aside.
Punke hesitated slightly.
“But over there with Her Royal Highness the Princess...”
Luo Yan said casually.
"She needs to calm down for a while now. You can go there for me in five minutes and say that Mr. Andes is too kind to refuse. I may not be able to leave for a while. I hope Her Majesty the Princess will forgive me. I will apologize to her personally later."
Although it is interesting to admire the helpless look, over time it will make her lose her dignity and eventually it will be counterproductive.
It would make more sense to take a step back at this time than to take a step forward, and this is why he chose to come out for air at this time.
As for striking while the iron is hot, that is the way to speed through.
What Luo Yan needs is not something so superficial, but that after she calms down, all the random thoughts in her mind will be about him.
Punk didn't ask any more questions. He carefully wrote down Mr. Colin's instructions. He stood on the balcony, looked at his watch and started to count the time.
As for Luo Yan himself, he left the balcony and walked towards the other side of the corridor.
Mr. Andes's servant is already waiting there.
The gentleman in formal attire bowed respectfully to him, and then took him to a box not far away.
As for the details of the cooperation of "Kelin Mining Company", especially the investment and shareholding ratios of both parties, the two parties still need to discuss it in depth.
Luo Yan believes that Mr. Andes has prepared a plan that satisfies him regarding the concept of selling standards he proposed before.
Otherwise, he would not have spent a huge sum of half a million gold coins to show his sincerity.
The person who opened the door was the princess's female guard.
Punk didn't dare to be careless and conveyed Mr. Colin's instructions exactly as he ordered, and then left in a hurry.
Learning that Colin would not be able to come back for a while, Erin Campbell was relieved, but she couldn't help but feel a little disappointed.
Honestly, she had no idea what he was thinking.
At first she felt that the other party was interested in her, but just before she started to feel troubled, his withdrawal made her uncertain about her decision.
Perhaps it’s just my own passion?
Perhaps he didn't think that much.
She could feel the appreciation in those eyes, but she couldn't see what kind of emotion was hidden behind the appreciation.
The feeling of being far away kept her from being completely calm, just like the restless chirping of cicadas in summer.
"Teresa, do you think there is really anyone in this world who would give such a precious treasure just for appreciation?"
Hearing Her Royal Highness the Princess' inquiry, Teresa closed the door and returned to the tea table, stunned for a few seconds, and then hesitantly gave her answer.
"I'm sorry, Your Highness, I have no experience in this area...but I think it's not possible."
"So it really is 'like'?" Irene sighed softly, holding her chin with her hands, and said in a joking tone, "It's really nerve-wracking. I didn't expect that I would become the sinful woman in the story."
Look at the unmistakable version one by one!
Having been together for so long, Teresa could certainly tell that Her Highness the Princess was joking, but the slightly raised corners of her lips made her undecided.
After thinking about it for a long time, she spoke cautiously.
"Your Highness, I don't know Mr. Colin. We can't find out much information about him, but I think if he is someone like your brother Edward, they should not have the feeling of "like"."
"I know, it might be more accurate to replace the word 'like' with 'want to get'. Don't think that I don't understand anything. I just don't like expressions of incomprehension..." Irene sighed leisurely, her bright eyes shining with wisdom.
“But don’t you think that no matter what purpose he approaches me for, it’s not a loss for us?”
The funds raised by this charity gala have far exceeded her expectations. It can not only resettle the refugees outside Thunder City, but also do more things.
In comparison, she didn't really pay anything, and Mr. Colin didn't ask her to do anything with the power of the Campbell family.
In this case, there seems to be nothing wrong with playing the role of a little girl who admires him, not to mention his conversational etiquette is quite lovable.
Although Irene did not express her emotions on her face, the slightly raised corners of her lips still revealed her pride.
It was like solving a difficult problem that no one knew in the court course.
Theresa admitted that Her Royal Highness the Princess was very smart, and she would even entrust herself with doing field research to understand the different prices in different areas of Thunder City, something that many nobles did not even bother to do.
However, this is what worries her.
She remembered that her father once said that the reason why their family has been able to survive for a long time is not because of how smart the family heads are, but precisely because they are not smart.
They will always be loyal to the Campbell family and will always be the sword in the hands of Grand Duke Campbell, and will not be smart enough to place a bet between the two princes.
However, seeing Her Royal Highness the Princess's enthusiastic and tough talk, she still couldn't bear to disturb her enjoyment.
At least for now, the mysterious imperial nobleman has not shown Chiguo's ambitions. He only expressed his admiration for Her Royal Highness the Princess and behaved in a gentlemanly manner.
If he really had any bad intentions, it would not be too late for her to give him a warning or advice...
...
As time went by, the auction gradually came to an end, but Mr. Colin, who left midway, did not come back.
Irene didn’t take it too seriously at first. She just drank black tea elegantly, enjoying the tranquility of being alone, and chatting with Theresa from time to time.
However, the two of them were too familiar with each other, and Theresa couldn't tell anything new, let alone relax and talk to her freely.
Gradually feeling a sense of boredom in her heart, Erin's thoughts couldn't help but fly to the far north, to the academic state located on the tundra.
Previously, Mr. Colin happened to talk about the willow tree that can hit people, and the thestrals that can only be seen by those who have had a brush with death.
I'm really curious about what else is there in that vast land.
Just when the bored Irene was about to tell Teresa to go see what was going on and how long Mr. Andes would take up his time, there was finally a knock on the door.
Almost at the moment when the knock on the door rang, Princess Irene, who was distracted a second ago, immediately sat up straight, adjusted the teacup on the tray, and assumed the appearance of a dignified lady again.
Looking at Her Royal Highness the Princess who cheered up for a moment, Teresa smiled helplessly in her heart, walked to the door of the room and opened the door.
"...I'm really sorry, Your Royal Highness, for keeping you waiting for so long." Looking at Princess Irene sitting at the table, Luo Yan nodded slightly with an apologetic expression.
Looking at Mr. Colin who sincerely apologized, Irene, who was originally lifeless, smiled and said in a joking voice.
"Then how are you going to compensate me?"
Luo Yan said respectfully.
“But I will obey your orders.”
Irene said with a smile.
“What if I want you to bring me the head of the Demon King?”
"I have to admit that this is a challenging task for me," Luo Yan had a troubled expression on his face, "But if it is your wish, I will work hard in this direction and try to hone my skills." , I have the nerve to ask you to do more. Besides, it is the duty of the Campbell royal family to defeat the Demon King, and I have no intention of giving up this glorious mission to others." Looking at Mr. Colin who seemed to take his words seriously, Erin blinked playfully, feeling a touch of pride in her heart.
It seems that he cares more about himself than he cares about him.
The previous worry about gains and losses and Teresa’s reminder made her feel a little uneasy and even suspicious, but now it seemed completely unnecessary.
The initiative is always in your own hands.
She could easily handle him if she wanted to.
However, Princess Eileen at this moment did not realize that the reason why she thought so was because someone deliberately made her think so.
Looking at Irene with a confident smile on her face, Luo Yan also had a gentle smile on his face and said respectfully.
"If this is the case, then I should hone my skills in order to be able to rely on you one day."
That sincere smile was like warm sunshine, which made Irene's heartbeat subconsciously speed up by half a beat, and she almost lost her way.
However, she quickly came to her senses, maintained her dignified appearance, and gracefully invited Mr. Colin to sit across from her.
The next time, the two spent time in a friendly atmosphere.
Enough of the flirtatious remarks that make people think, it would be rude to do more.
Luo Yan did not add any more details, but continued to talk about his artistically processed campus life and things about the "Kao Continent".
Especially the second half, he had just told it to Mr. Andes, and now it was time to repeat it again before he forgot it.
To avoid inconsistencies and conflicts.
Irene acted as a listener and asked some questions that made her curious from time to time.
But it is obvious that this little girl is more curious about the wizard tower in Xuebang than the New World.
In this way, tonight's banquet came to an end in a friendly atmosphere, and the satisfied guests left one after another.
When parting, Irene specially put on a robe and, accompanied by Teresa, sent Luo Yan to the gate of the manor.
Looking at Mr. Colin standing next to the carriage, she said with sincerity in her eyes and a clear and pleasant voice.
"Thank you for your gift. Although the time with you was short, it was very pleasant. I look forward to meeting you again."
Luo Yan said with a smile.
"Me too, this is the happiest night since I left home. I wish you a good dream tonight. In addition, you may have misunderstood something, I was just about to give you that mysterious gift..."
Just about to?
Irene was slightly stunned.
"Isn't it that diamond——"
Before she could finish her words, someone had already held her right hand.
The warm and familiar touch soaked into the palm of her hand.
By the time she came to her senses, the kind and considerate gentleman had already sat in the carriage, and there was a golden pocket watch in her palm.
"It's just a pocket watch to me, but it's a priceless treasure to you. Rather than possessing it, I hope it stays with you."
“Remember to write me a letter if you encounter difficulties in the future, and don’t lose it again.”