Chapter 179

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

Lucy White and Vanessa Knight'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.

Robert Lee slapped his thigh in frustration. "Missed another golden opportunity! Should've followed Lucy's picks."

William Jones sighed. "Next time, I'm sticking to Lucy like glue."

[Live comments exploded]

[That's insane luck]

[Bet Lucy knows her stuff]

Livestream viewers debated Lucy's true expertise as Michael Johnson'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. Smith." Michael flashed a smug grin.

Ethan Smith 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..."

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

[Screen flooded with comments]

[Ethan god-tier as always]

[Top star Michael outshone again]

Evan York sidled closer. "About my selection—"

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

Lily Green 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 Lucy's twenty-seven stones produced fourteen jade pieces—including one flawless imperial-grade specimen.

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

Nearby, Fiona Von glared at that very stone—the one she'd coveted but Lucy claimed first.

"Investigate that Lily Green," Fiona hissed to her father. "As for Lucy... she'll regret this."

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

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

Ethan chuckled. "Likewise."

The real game had only just begun.