Chapter 233: The Auction

In the end, Rose was taken away by Isabella, whose eyes had literally changed color when she saw her, and returned the next day.

However, as a thank-you for helping with the farm work, I was able to give her the initial set of tools for drawing manga.

Unlike Velvet, it would be difficult for Rose without reference materials, but she could always come visit here whenever she liked.

Looking forward to the manga Rose would create, I also went to the auction I had been anticipating for about a week.

Since it was being held in the royal capital, there was nothing particularly new about the city itself, but seeing an auction live was a first for me.

I had participated in online auctions before, but I knew this would be a completely different experience.

“Sato-san, shall we head out soon?”

“Yes. Did we remember everything?”

“Yes. We also brought the items Rozzo asked us to take, so nothing has been left behind.”

“Good. Let’s put our energy into getting high bids!”

“Yes… though I suppose we’ll mostly just be watching the bidding process.”

I was excited, but Sheila was a little more reserved.

For me, it was my first auction, but apparently in this world, they were fairly common events. I could feel the difference in enthusiasm even before we left—but that didn’t matter.

Determined to enjoy it to the fullest, we boarded the carriage drawn by Nyx of Snow deer and headed for the royal capital.

Once we arrived, we handed all of our items over to the auction staff.

For a moment, I briefly wondered if the staff might be scammers, but Sheila confirmed everything properly, so it was fine.

After entrusting the items, we were guided to the inn where the auction would be held and told we could relax in a room until the start time.

Whether it was because the Seven Cursed Swords were impressive, or Rozzo’s treasures were incredible, we were treated like VIPs.

The room we were resting in was luxurious, and it even made me feel a little important.

“This room is amazing. We’re not going to be charged later, right?”

“Hehe, don’t worry. And even if something like that happened, Velvet-sama could solve it in an instant. Our connections are very strong.”

“True, Velvet and the king could help, I guess. I think this is the first time I’ve realized how amazing it is to know royalty.”

“I’m actually the surprised one! At this point, Sato-san is treated on a level equivalent to royalty.”

“No, no! That’s absolutely not true!”

“I’m not flattering you. You really are. Not only do you have Yatogami with the hero party, but also an Elf princess and even demons under your wing. Plus, you’re close with the princess of this kingdom and have powerful familiars. There’s no doubt you wield considerable influence.”

I had always thought it impossible to be treated on a level equal to royalty… but hearing it again made me realize just how extraordinary the people I knew really were.

I may not have much power myself, but considering those around me, it might be fair to say that a significant organization is forming.

“Hearing it again, it’s true—I really do know some extraordinary people!”

“It’s a little frightening how unaware you are! But that’s just who you are, Sato-san.”

While chatting with Sheila and relaxing in the room, the staff came to call us.

It seemed the auction was about to begin, and we were told to gather on the top floor.

We adjusted our clothing and took the magical elevator as instructed.

The top floor was a large hall where the auction setup was already complete.

It looked just like in movies and manga, and my excitement was at its peak even before it started.

From here, rare fantasy items would be put up for sale, and I could hardly contain my anticipation.

“You seem really excited. You were restless even before coming—do you like auctions, Sato-san?”

“‘Like’—that’s a bit off. It’s my first time, so I’m just thrilled. Seeing rare items is another reason I’m excited.”

“You’ve experienced flea markets, but this is your first auction. The feeling must be different, right?”

“I think so. Flea markets are obviously more familiar.”

For Sheila, flea markets were the novelty, while for me, auctions were rare.

This difference in perspective likely comes from the worlds we’ve each lived in.

“The preparations are complete. We will now begin the ‘Rarity Auction.’ Please use your bidding cards to place your bids.”

As the auctioneer’s voice echoed through the hall, the lights dimmed.

It became so dark that I couldn’t even see the person next to me, but then only the front row was illuminated.

Excited by this dramatic presentation, the first item was brought out.

It was in a heavily secured box, promising a high-value item right from the start.

I decided that I would bid only if it was something I truly wanted.

With that mindset, I joined the auction.