On the big screen, a stunning jewel-encrusted box slowly appeared. The box opened, revealing an ancient manuscript with the words *Yun’s Aromatic Codex* embossed on it.
As the auction video showcasing the item played, the atmosphere quickly grew lively. People began discussing the legendary *Yun’s Aromatic Codex* and its incredible value.
The auctioneer continued, “This is the legendary *Yun’s Aromatic Codex* from Yun’s Fragrance & Dye Studio, passed down through generations. Experts have authenticated it as a genuine antique manuscript.”
“For those familiar with history, Yun’s Fragrance & Dye Studio has been around for over a century, and the Yuncey Family is known for their ability to craft Fragrance Garments. Do you know the magic behind them?”
“Those who understand the world of collectors will know that these garments are made without any chemical fragrances-purely natural dyes, and they emit a unique fragrance. Flowers will come to life around you, which is the magic of Fragrance Garments. Some say these garments are worth their weight in gold; even a single inch is precious beyond measure.”
“Today, we are auctioning off the second half of *Yun’s Aromatic Codex*, a piece of immense historical and research value. The starting bid is 500, 000!”
The auctioneer finished, and the screen displayed the authentication certificate and related notarized documents, all confirming the manuscript’s authenticity.
Caitlin turned to Sebastian and asked softly, “Have you found out who provided this item for auction?”
“It’s a private collector. The information has been deliberately hidden; we couldn’t trace anything more.”
Caitlin’s thoughts wandered. How could a private collector have obtained the second half of *Yun’s Aromatic Codex*? How did it fall into their hands?
Many collectors were interested in the manuscript’s value, and Ximena was no exception-she was also determined to secure it tonight.
As soon as the auctioneer called for the start, Ximena was the first to raise her paddle.
“Lot 32! 510, 000!”
Everyone turned to look, and Caitlin glanced over, seeing that it was Ximena bidding. She wasn’t surprised, but she certainly wouldn’t let Ximena have the chance. Caitlin raised her paddle.
“Lot 87! 520, 000!”
The auctioneer barely finished speaking before someone called out, “1 million!”
The price jumped faster than anyone expected, almost doubling in an instant.
Yasmin saw Caitlin bid and quickly urged Connor to raise his paddle.
“Lot 93! 1. 01 million!”
Connor thought Yasmin wanted the manuscript, and he assured her, “Just watch, Yasmin, I’ll win it for you and make it a gift!”
“Thank you, Connor,” Yasmin responded, pretending to be grateful.
“Lot 70! 2 million!”
The man in the white suit finally made his move! This marked the start of a fierce bidding war.
Zeke immediately followed with a bid.
“2. 5 million!”
The man in the white suit raised the stakes again.
“3 million!”
Ximena, seeing this unknown man also bidding, immediately countered with a huge price.
“5 million!”
At this point, 87 raised its paddle again, and Sebastian calmly called out, “10 million!”
The crowd gasped, everyone feeling the intensity of the battle. Mr. Vanderbilt wasn’t messing around-his bid represented a level of confidence and power.
Yasmin couldn’t help but glance at Sebastian, feeling a mix of emotions. Even though she had agreed to try dating Connor, she couldn’t forget the first man she had ever liked. Unfortunately, he had never looked at her the same way.
Zora, feeling the same way, wasn’t pleased with Sebastian helping Caitlin win the manuscript. She turned to her mother, “Mom, we can’t lose to them! We have to bid too!”
“Understood!”
Ximena was determined to get the manuscript tonight, no matter the cost.
The bidding hit 10 million, but it didn’t stop there. The price quickly reached 15 million, and Sebastian raised the bid again.
“20 million!”
Gasps filled the room. The price for half of an old book had reached an astronomical figure. It was beyond most people’s comprehension.
At the 20 million mark, the number of bidders dwindled significantly. Many people hesitated-this was an amount few could afford to pay, and many didn’t even know how to handle such a rare piece of history.
“20 million, first time! 20 million, second time! Is there any further bid?” The auctioneer prepared to hammer down, but suddenly, Lot 32 raised their paddle again.
“30 million!”
Ximena called out the number, her gaze challenging Sebastian and Caitlin.
The room was filled with whispers, and everyone was keenly aware of the high stakes. It was no longer just about the manuscript; it was a battle between VEG and XEG, two titans going head-to-head.
Caitlin looked at Ximena. It was clear that the woman had made up her mind to fight for the manuscript with everything she had.
“50 million!”
Sebastian wouldn’t let Ximena get away with her scheme. He remained unfazed as he called out the price.
The room went silent. The number was staggering, and everyone was in awe. A half-damaged manuscript could sell for such a ridiculous amount?
Many thought it would end there, but Ximena quickly raised her paddle again.
“80 million!”
Her bid turned heads, and everyone saw how desperately she wanted the manuscript.
“Wow…”
The room was filled with astonishment. This had turned into a battle of financial power and influence. Only those with deep pockets could even dream of competing.
Connor, who had been quietly watching, knew he couldn’t afford to keep bidding. His pocket money would never suffice to win such a high-priced item.
Yasmin was also disappointed in Connor. She realized that, at critical moments, he had nothing to offer.
“80 million! Is there anyone willing to go higher?” The auctioneer asked, looking towards Sebastian.
Sebastian didn’t hesitate. “100 million!”
The price soared to 100 million, a figure few could comprehend. Everyone knew the money wasn’t a concern for Sebastian. He had the means to back up his bid without breaking a sweat.
The room buzzed with excitement. The contest between Sebastian and Ximena had reached a fever pitch.
Zora felt the tension for her mother, unsure whether she would win the manuscript.
Ximena was willing to go all in for the manuscript. She raised her paddle again.
“110 million!”
Sebastian, growing impatient with the bidding war, slammed down his paddle.
“200 million!”
The room fell silent. Two hundred million?
The audience was in disbelief. It was the kind of bidding that defied logic.
Sebastian’s dominance in the bidding was clear, and Ximena was cornered. Yet, she didn’t back down.
“200 million,” the auctioneer called.
Sebastian and Caitlin exchanged a glance, silently challenging Ximena to continue.