Not to mention the quality of the marble—just the craftsmanship alone was extraordinary. One look was enough to spark a moment of clarity.
Unfortunately, the noise in the venue made it hard to appreciate its beauty fully.
If they could hold it in their hands… Many in the crowd couldn't hide their longing expressions.
Jennifer looked surprised. "A talisman… Now that's a rare treasure."
"Exactly! No matter the cost, we must have it," Zidane said excitedly.
This talisman wasn't something one came across every day, and securing a treasure of this caliber only cemented Mikayla's standing. At the very least, anyone thinking of crossing her would have to reconsider—just having access to a talisman of this level spoke volumes about her standing.
"If anyone is interested, feel free to bid. On behalf of the people in the disaster-stricken areas, I'd like to thank you all," Mikayla said with a bow before stepping back.
Charlene looked at Daniel in surprise. "You said you were offering something valuable, and it turns out to be a talisman?"
"I just made one casually." He chuckled.
She gave him a long, thoughtful look before raising her hand. "Ten million!"
Her bid instantly ignited a fierce competition for the talisman.
"13 million!" Orson quickly offered.
He had been standing near the talisman when the golden light faded and had clearly felt a faint energy settle within him. Even the tightness in his chest, which had been bothering him for ages, felt noticeably lighter.
And that was just from being near it—what if he actually wore it?
After all, health was priceless.
Just as Charlene gritted her teeth and was about to place her bid, Willow's voice rang out. "50 million!"
As soon as the bid was placed, the entire banquet hall fell silent for a moment. All eyes turned to Willow in shock.
"Ms. Keaton is bidding?"
"Looks like she's determined to win this. That price is unreal..."
A wave of disappointment rippled through the crowd. Talismans were valuable, and while they were certainly wealthy, they weren't overflowing with money. Of course, if this auction were taking place at a gathering of martial artists—like the Immortal Assembly—50 million would barely be a starting bid.
However, Daniel remained indifferent. Tonight's event was all about supporting Mikayla, and that goal had already been accomplished. If Willow walked away with a bargain, so be it.
While he didn't mind, Jennifer certainly wasn't about to let it slide.
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