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nEustace didn’t notice their reactions as he was too focused on what was ahead of him.

nAs he reached the second floor, the bar Hilma had mentioned came into view.

nThe floor’s atmosphere was distinct, with an air of exclusivity and sophistication that separated it from the bustling activity below. Eustace’s eyes scanned the room, searching for the bartender who could help him connect to the Auction House.

nAt this time, he noticed that the second floor of the Gold Club was indeed more exclusive and less crowded than the first floor. The room exuded an ambiance of luxury, akin to an upscale nightclub with high-priced drinks…

nApproaching the bartender, Eustace wasted no time in expressing his desire to sell his mystical items in the Auction House. The bartender, who was diligently wiping a glass, squinted his eyes as he observed Eustace for a moment before responding.

n“Certainly… May I know how to address you?” the bartender inquired.

n“I’m Eustace Skye… a Summoner…” He introduced himself.

nThe bartender nodded approvingly. “Your timing is impeccable, Sir Eustace. The two individuals waiting at that table also intended to utilize our connection for selling items in the Auction House. I heard that the Auction House already has 30 items prepared to be sold… Unless your items hold substantial value, it might be worth considering alternative methods through the Black Market.”

nEustace considered the bartender’s advice and nodded. “That makes sense. I would appreciate having my items appraised. If they are deemed worthy for the main auction, I would be pleased to proceed.”

n“Excellent…” The bartender responded. “Please go ahead and wait with those gentlemen. The Appraiser and the Manager will be with you shortly.”

nEustace nodded, but he decided to get a beverage first. Since he wasn’t sure what are the beverages here, he just let the bartender get him a decently-priced wine.

nAfter paying two zen for the glass of wine, Eustace took it with him.

nFollowing the bartender’s instructions, he joined the two men who were seated at the table. One of them wore a white cloak, and using his Divine Sense, he recognized him as a Rune Arts Practitioner.

nOn the other hand, the one who seemed to be a gloomy figure donning a black cloak was a Holy Arts Practitioner.

nEustace kept silent as he sat with them, awaiting the arrival of the Appraiser and the Manager.

nFortunately, the boring wait did not persist for long, as the people they were waiting for soon made their entrance.

nThe Manager, a graceful woman in her thirties, exuded a mature charm. She was also an Arcanist and practiced the Combat Arts.

nEustace couldn’t help but admire her presence. She certainly deserved to be a manager of the Gold Club.

nThe Appraiser, on the other hand, was an old Arcanist specializing in Dark Arts, piquing Eustace’s curiosity.

n‘He only has 6 Dark Spells. He’s probably not a senior from the Academy.’ Eustace silently thought.

n“I’m Maurine, the Manager of the Gold Club, and I will also assist you in connecting to the Auction House at a reduced fee compared to standard rates. In return, we only ask that you utilize our establishment’s services more often… If possible, refer us to other Arcanists who would like to enjoy their time.” Maurine stated with a captivating smile.

nThe two men who had been silently waiting immediately accepted Maurine’s proposition.

n“Of course, Miss Maurine! We will gladly assist you. I will use your services every day… and if possible, I would like you to…” The Rune Arts Practitioner answered almost immediately, but he hesitated when he was about to ask out the Manager.

nEustace couldn’t help but wonder if he came here to meet with the Manager instead for the business.

nThe other man cleared his throat and added. “I have been using your services every time I complete my missions, Lady Maurine… As a matter of fact, I recently finished hunting a criminal, and I’ll be spending my time here. If you could accompany me…”

nThe Manager chuckled at their complimenting words and immediately thanked them. However, she made it clear that she was only here for business.

nEustace observed the interaction with intrigue, realizing that this establishment held more than just connections to the Auction House.

n‘This business is actually impressive… If they have numerous connections with the Rogue Arcanists, then they might be comparable to some large guilds of Arcanists as well.’ Eustace mused as he looked at the Manager.

nSoon, they got back to business…

nEustace learned that the two men only had one item they wanted to sell to the Auction House. They didn’t even bother going to a separate room to make a secret transaction.

nIndeed, rather than being discreet, these two men seemed to revel in flaunting their items to each other.

nThey even cast taunting glances at Eustace, as if challenging him to produce a more impressive mystical item.

nEustace couldn’t help but shake his head at their behavior.

nNonetheless, he patiently awaited his turn while the Appraiser examined the items brought by the two men.

nThe Rune Arts Practitioner presented a blue cane that appeared to be crafted from a type of rock. The cane was heavy and emitted a cold sensation when touched, according to the Appraiser.

nThe Appraiser carefully inspected the item for a few moments before making a comment.

n“This is a high-grade Noble Rank Item… known as the Blue Scream Staff. However, it has undergone a mutation, resulting in three mystical abilities instead of the usual two. I presume you acquired it from that cult. Impressive…” the Appraiser commented.

nThe Rune Arts Practitioner, wearing a confident smile, inquired about its potential value in the auction house. He was certainly aware of the uniqueness of his item.

n“With its mutated state, it is estimated to fetch more than 11,000 zen…” the Appraiser replied, acknowledging its exceptional qualities. .𝒄𝙢

n“Mhmm… That sounds about right. I’m sure it could go higher since it’s from the cult.” The Runecaster commented.

nThe attention then shifted to the item brought by the Holy Arts Practitioner. It was a dagger that seemed to carry an air of darkness and malevolence.

nThe Appraiser examined the dagger and deduced its origin.

n“This dagger appears to be connected to the criminal you apprehended. This dagger already consumed the souls of twelve pure children. If purified, its value would only amount to around 3,000 zen. However, with the souls intact, it will garner significant interest among Dark Arts Practitioners. They would be willing to purchase it for 20,000 zen or possibly even more…”

nUpon hearing this assessment from the Appraiser, a grin spread across the face of the man cloaked in black, clearly delighted by the potential value of his item.

nThis content is taken from 𝘪𝑟𝘦.𝘤𝑜𝓂

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