As the auction began, Zich, Lyla, and Leona sat on the sofa right in front of the railing and looked down. The auctioneer went up onto the circular stage, introduced himself, and bowed. Maybe it was because of a magic device, or the efficient architecture of the building, or merely the auctioneer’s loud voice, but they could hear every word from the stage.

The first item came up on the auction stand, and the auctioneer introduced it.

“They say it’s a rare gem.”

Lyla took the catalog that had been prepared for guests in the room. On the front page of the catalog, there was an explanation and a drawing of the gem that the auctioneer was introducing. Hans and Snoc approached closer, holding a fruit each, and peered at their own catalog. They all turned its pages. They had already seen the items on the wooden posts in the lobby, but it felt different seeing them while they were in auction. Furthermore, except for Leona, no one had read the explanations of the items on the wooden posts carefully.

“Is there anything you want to buy? Tell me. I’ll buy you several.” Like somebody who had struck it rich overnight, Zich spoke arrogantly.

 “Aren’t you spending too recklessly...