Realm of Myths and Legends Chapter 1294: Dragon-Level VIP

"Today, the Golden Dragon Association arrives as a participant. Similar to all other contenders, we assert our right to place any bid deemed reasonable. Should you lack the capacity to contend, abstention is advised over complaint. While some may cower from offending your Duvelle family, we stand apart." The Golden Dragon Association's representative declared with calm deliberation.

He then added, "Our bid stands at 50,000,000 gold coins. Furthermore, the owner of this artifact will receive Dragon-Level VIP status within the Golden Dragon Association. Naturally, we shall also assist in procuring one item of their choosing, provided it remains within sensible limits."

Upon hearing the mention of Dragon-Level VIP status, the entire auction house atmosphere underwent a palpable shift. Even Lady Kesa and the guards on the stage displayed clear surprise at this revelation.

While Izroth possessed limited knowledge of the Golden Dragon Association's inner workings beyond casual remarks or Vexpela's passing comments, Vexpela's silence on the matter suggested it was likely beyond her reach.

"Eh? Dragon-Level VIP status? You're saying it truly exists?" One guest exclaimed, his voice betraying his disbelief.

"Indeed it does. It is merely so exceedingly rare that one might live their entire life without encountering anyone who holds it. These are but whispers, yet I have heard that fewer than ten individuals possess Dragon-Level VIP status. With such standing, one can purportedly command the very earth and sea." Another guest elaborated.

As murmurs and hushed discussions spread amongst the auction house patrons, the Golden Dragon Association representative escalated their proposal.

"Given that the privileges bestowed upon those with Dragon-Level VIP status might be obscure to the outside world, I humbly request a brief intermission. This would allow me to personally meet with the owner of this item and elucidate these benefits. This, of course, is contingent on the owner's comfort with such an arrangement," the representative from the Golden Dragon Association stated.

"That is preposterous! Are you suggesting your Golden Dragon Association intends to coerce individuals into surrendering their treasures?! By visiting them directly, do you believe they could refuse you without facing repercussions?!" Burake interjected swiftly.

Burake understood implicitly that under no circumstances could he permit the Golden Dragon Association's representative to convene privately with the owner of the Transforming Rebirth's Embrace. To do so would undoubtedly extinguish any prospect he held of acquiring the coveted treasure.

"Hmph, coercion? When the acquisition of treasures is concerned, we have no need for such base tactics. Why employ force when opulence serves as a more efficient conduit? However, if the paragons of virtue and defenders of the weak, the Duvelle family, harbor reservations, I shall pledge the Golden Dragon Association's integrity that we will not compel the owner of this item to accept our terms," the representative from the Golden Dragon Association avowed.

A discernible undercurrent of mockery laced their tone as they invoked the Duvelle family's name, describing them as "righteous" and "protectors of the innocent." After all, no resident of Danaharpe was unaware of the Duvelle family's notoriously overbearing and intimidating methods when pursuing coveted possessions. For this very family to now posture as moral arbiters, feigning benevolence and concern for others' welfare, was an act only a fool would believe.

Burake glanced towards Black Fox and declared, "While I can continue to offer an endless stream of gold coins, we are outmatched by the Golden Dragon Association in sheer monetary power! To add insult to injury, they are now presenting Dragon-Level VIP status! Even the head of our Duvelle family holds merely Platinum-Level VIP...! Unless you possess a more compelling offering, this treasure is effectively lost to us!"

Black Fox remained impassive, their gaze fixed intently on the stage where the coffin rested.

Then, Black Fox spoke, their voice resonating with quiet certainty, "What the League of the Eidolon desires, it invariably obtains—without exception."

Meanwhile, on the stage, Lady Kesa retreated a few paces, appearing to utilize a magical communication device to converse with someone. After a brief pause, she stepped forward once more, occupying the center of the stage.

"It has been ascertained that given the substantial volume of funds being transacted, the Golden Dragon Association's request is deemed reasonable. More significantly, the owner of the item has accorded permission for a meeting with the Golden Dragon Association's representative. Consequently, we shall observe a brief ten-minute intermission prior to the auction's resumption," Lady Kesa announced.

"I am expecting some guests shortly. Will you be remaining here?" Izroth inquired.

"It would be a falsehood to say I am not intrigued by how my student conducts himself outside of his craftsmanship matters," Hyrell stated casually.

Izroth offered a slight nod. He then declared, "I suppose since I was not the intended recipient of the curse, there is no longer a necessity to conceal my identity. However, at least until the auction concludes, I intend to fully leverage my status as the enigmatic Supreme Elder of the Fourth Pavilion. On that matter—how would you feel about participating in a small capacity?"

"No one has ever possessed the audacity to request that I play a minor part! But, given that you are assisting me with the coffin, I suppose I can indulge you for the sake of my esteemed student. More importantly—it promises to be rather entertaining," Hyrell responded, a playful smirk gracing his lips.

Hyrell's reply elicited an internal smile of helplessness from Izroth. For reasons unknown, the prospect of amusement seemed to be the most appealing aspect for Hyrell.

"Apart from the representative from the Golden Dragon Association, I have extended an invitation to one additional party to join us. They ought to be arriving any moment now. Should you deem her worthy of support, I would be pleased if you and the Formation Master Guild would lend your capabilities. Well, speaking of 'any moment now'—" Izroth remarked, his attention shifting towards the door.

As if responding to his words, a light yet firm knocking echoed from the other side of the VIP room's door.

"I, Vexpela, have arrived to meet the esteemed Supreme Elder of the Fourth Pavilion," a voice, recognizable to Izroth, announced from beyond the door.

"The guest you have been anticipating?" Hyrell inquired.

"Precisely," Izroth confirmed with an air of nonchalance.

"Hmm... Very well. Considering they have garnered your endorsement, I am willing to at least assess them. If they demonstrate sound judgment, I shall accept your proposal," Hyrell declared.