Chapter 166: The Shadowed Gavel (2)
The iron doors closed behind them with a heavy thud. The hallway beyond was dimly lit by violet lanterns. Their light reflected off the smooth obsidian tiles that lined the floor and walls. A few robed patrons moved in the distance, speaking quietly among themselves.
A slim attendant stood waiting just inside, dressed in a formal high-collared coat. Silver tattoos curled up his neck. He dipped his head politely. "Honored sellers, the Gavel welcomes you. This way, please."
Riku gave a short nod. Beside him, Sherry tried to smile, but her hand tugged once at her cloak’s edge, betraying the tension beneath.
They followed the attendant down a narrow corridor. With each step, faint glyphs lit up beneath the marble floor. Sherry eyed them warily, but said nothing.
At the end of the corridor, the attendant placed his hand against a black door veined with thin silver etchings. The runes shifted, reacting to his touch with a soft ripple of light. The door opened with a quiet shimmer.
"A private receiving suite. Our appraiser will join you shortly," he said.
He stepped away. The door closed behind him with a faint hiss, followed by the clear sound of locks settling into place.
The room inside was round, with high ceilings and a single lantern hanging directly above. In the center stood a stone pedestal inlaid with silver.
Riku placed the Soul‑Drinker sword on the pedestal. The moment he let go, the runes on the blade pulsed dimly. The air felt slightly colder.
Sherry took a step closer. "I don’t know if I admire that thing or want to step back from it," she said.
"A bit of both is healthy," Riku replied.