Chapter 179

"Emerald!" The stonecutter's shout drew every eye in the auction hall.

Aria Bennett and Vivienne Archer's freshly cut jade shimmered under the sunlight, eliciting gasps from the crowd. Jewelry merchants swarmed forward, their competing bids overlapping.

"Five million!"

"Eight million!"

The women exchanged knowing smiles. "Not for sale," they said in unison.

Caleb Monroe slapped his thigh in frustration. "Missed another golden opportunity! Should've followed Aria's picks."

Wesley Hart sighed. "Next time, I'm sticking to Aria like glue."

[Live comments exploded]

[That's insane luck]

[Bet Aria knows her stuff]

Livestream viewers debated Aria's true expertise as Nolan Reed's turn arrived. His ten randomly selected rough stones yielded three jade pieces—one being premium glass-grade.

"Looks like fortune favors me today, Mr. Cross." Nolan flashed a smug grin.

Damian Cross calmly signaled the lapidary to proceed. When the black jade emerged, the room fell silent for a heartbeat before erupting in awe.

"Imperial black jade!"

"That clarity... that luster..."

Nolan's expression darkened. Damian toyed with the gem, lips quirking. "Seems my luck surpasses yours."

[Screen flooded with comments]

[Damian god-tier as always]

[Top star Nolan outshone again]

Elias Vaughn sidled closer. "About my selection—"

"Relax." Damian cut him off. "You won't be disappointed."

Serena Blake arrived late, pushing nine rough stones. Confidence radiated from her as she positioned herself by the cutting wheel, eyes blazing with determination.

"Eight out of nine!"

"Unbelievable streak!"

Her triumphant smile froze when Aria's twenty-seven stones produced fourteen jade pieces—including one flawless imperial-grade specimen.

"Impossible!" Serena's nails bit into her palms.

Nearby, Celine Valmont glared at that very stone—the one she'd coveted but Aria claimed first.

"Investigate that Serena Blake," Celine hissed to her father. "As for Aria... she'll regret this."

Two priceless gems glittered under the lights, illuminating two twisted faces—Serena trembling with rage, Celine's eyes glinting venomously.

Meanwhile, Aria absently twirled the imperial jade between her fingers. "Fortune smiles today."

Damian chuckled. "Likewise."

The real game had only just begun.