Conversation faded as the curtains behind the stage opened and Master Orwin stepped forward.
The grey-haired auctioneer wore a dark coat with silver embroidery and carried the confidence of someone who had spent nearly twenty years separating wealthy people from their gold.
He reached the podium, surveyed the audience and struck his wooden hammer once.
"Ladies and gentlemen, Warriors, merchants, honored representatives and anyone who came here merely because they heard something expensive was being sold, welcome to the first Grand Auction of the Adventurer Guild."
Orwin allowed the scattered laughter to settle before continuing with an easy smile. "My name is Orwin Pell, and for tonight I have been entrusted with the dangerous responsibility of encouraging all of you to make decisions your accountants may question tomorrow morning."
Garen immediately laughed and clapped.
Orwin lifted one hand toward him. "Master Holtweiss appears prepared already."
