Lorelei basked in everyone's attention and stood tall before Ramon and Naga.
"Mr. Slytherin means that anyone who believes this Infinity Stone is genuine may participate in the bidding. Those who believe it is fake need only watch."
The Collector suddenly spat out a mouthful of wine, then clapped and burst into laughter. "Interesting, so interesting. You're far more interesting than I imagined."
The Thoughtform shrugged. "I simply don't want to waste everyone's time. It will also better prevent certain ill-intentioned people from stirring things up."
"Um..." The Grandmaster raised his right hand and said with interest, "I have a small question—one that concerns all of us.
What do you intend to do if none of us participates in the auction without inspecting the item?"
"Do you believe this Reality Stone is fake?" the Thoughtform asked with a faint smile.
The Grandmaster gave an awkward laugh. Everyone present knew the Infinity Stone was real; they all understood that without saying it aloud.
But that did not stop them from wanting to take advantage of the situation, nor from wanting to watch the show.
"You don't mind answering, do you?"
"Not at all." The Thoughtform smiled lightly, then turned his gaze toward Nova Prime. "Nova Prime knows whether this Infinity Stone is genuine.
If none of you participates in the bidding, I believe Xandar would be more than happy to acquire an Infinity Stone for one trillion. At that price, it is practically being given away.
And once Xandar makes an offer, the Kree certainly will not stand idly by.
After all, for both sides, there are things they may not possess themselves, but their opponent absolutely cannot be allowed to possess either."
"Hiss!" The Grandmaster dramatically sucked in a breath. "That is... vicious!"
Slytherin had them completely figured out. The