Kaelith didn't leave right away. After the handshake, he gestured toward a quieter adjoining lounge, a well-appointed place, with soft lighting and wine chilled in silver flutes. It was the kind of space meant to keep powerful clients comfortable and talking.
Riku took a seat, settling in without speaking. Sherry chose to remain standing, her arms crossed tightly while her eyes scanned the surroundings.
Kaelith cleared his throat. "I hope you understand we cannot proceed with the auction immediately. Not with an item of this magnitude."
Riku raised an eyebrow. "Too dangerous to proceed without security?"
"Too valuable to rush," Kaelith replied, smoothing his sleeves. "The right patrons need time to be invited. Time to anticipate. We'll need three days, minimum, to generate the appropriate interest."
Riku leaned back slightly, considering Kaelith's words. "Alright. That sounds reasonable. However, I have one more thing."
