Grand Duke Abel had apparently come out "for show," so he naturally made no effort to conceal the terrifying pressure within him. It radiated with a cold, grim aura, enveloping the dimly lit, quiet auction hall and adding a sense of oppression and suffocation.
"Cough, cough, cough..." Grand Duke Abel began coughing lightly, his aged body trembling as he raised his head, his cold, blood-red eyes scanning the crowd.
"First of all, I would like to thank everyone for gracing the Ashford Family with your presence."
Grand Duke Abel seemed to stagger toward the front of the auction stage. He moved with apparent difficulty, his steps slow and labored, yet the vast majority of those present dared not underestimate the old man who looked to be on the verge of death. They all pursed their lips, silently waiting for Grand Duke Abel to reach the stage's edge.
Then, he spoke again.
