Michael Crabbe clapped his hands, and the two young maidens wheeled the cart out once more.
He did not keep them guessing any longer and directly lifted the red cloth covering the cart.
On the silver tray sat a crystal-clear piece of red amber. Inside was a strange creature with the body of a mammal, a pair of twisted horns on its head, and, most unusually, twelve pairs of insect-like jointed legs.
The guests were immediately disappointed. The finale auction item was actually just a piece of amber, far from what they had expected.
"It's only a piece of amber, and it has something to do with Herpo?" Lucius said unhappily. He was willing to show goodwill toward the new minister through the auction, but they could not treat him like a fool. An auction item had to at least come with a good story.
Michael Crabbe said excitedly, "Those of you with well-informed sources should already know..."
"The rebellious Goblin elder Lanlock infiltrated the Chamber of Secrets beneath Hogwarts Castle and transformed into a terrifying monster."
"According to the Ministry of Magic's investigation, Lanlock once claimed to have obtained Herpo's treasure. The wands used by the rebellious Goblins were all provided by Lanlock."
"Anyone familiar with history should know that Herpo was a Wizard who had traveled far down the paths of life and death."
"The changes that occurred to Lanlock were very likely connected to Herpo."
"And this piece of amber was something Lanlock left behind in the Goblin Secret Vault."
"Most importantly..."
"It's alive!"
Michael Crabbe picked up the amber and closed his eyes as though listening to something. "When you hold it and listen carefully, you can hear its voice..."
Lucius frowned. "Crabbe, you should know... this is not a good thing. Magical items with consciousness