As the auctioneer removed the silk cover, gasps of curiosity and anticipation rippled through the grand hall. On the overhead screens, the object was broadcast in high resolution for every guest in the hall to get a clearer view.
Beneath the crimson cloth sat a transparent crystal-glass case. Inside it, was the upper torso of a female mannequin, elegant and smooth. Draped over the mannequin was a sleeveless vest that, at first glance, appeared deceptively plain.
It didn't gleam like gold, nor shimmer like enchanted steel. Instead, it had the muted shine of brushed silver, almost like dim moonlight caught in cloth. It looked thin… soft even. Some guests exchanged puzzled looks, clearly unimpressed.
Those who had waited eagerly for the grand finale of the auction now wore expressions of disappointment. "Was this the rumoured legendary item?" was the question on their minds.
