The Raven Auction Method

"I've got one of those faces. Lots of people say they've seen me before," Roland said vaguely.

"Really?" Mario found it a little odd, but he couldn't remember where he had seen Roland.

"Next up is Rembrandt's etching Supper at Emmaus. Created in 1634, it captures a quiet, intimate atmosphere. It depicts a Christian story: shortly after Jesus was crucified, he rose again and met two of his followers at a small inn in Emmaus, a village near Jerusalem."

The Auctioneer swept his gaze across the room. "The opening bid is six million dollars. Bidding may begin."

"Too bad it isn't Caravaggio's Supper at Emmaus. I'd definitely buy that," Mario muttered. He turned to Roland. "Are you interested in this one, Father?"

Roland smiled and shook his head. With an opening bid that high, he might as well buy a reproduction to hang in the Church.

Bruce sat in the VIP section up front, raising his paddle while flirting with the blonde beauty beside him. He didn't seem particularly interested in the painting. He was probably just spending money to keep up his wastrel image.

"Mr. Wayne bids twelve million! Twelve million, going once!"

"Twelve million, going twice! Last chance to bid."

"Twelve million, going three times! Sold!" The Auctioneer brought down his gavel.

"Our next lot is rather unusual. This ancient blade comes from Arabia, but its distinctive design has never been seen before. Despite its age, it remains sharp... a superb piece of craftsmanship." The Auctioneer tested the blade on several objects, demonstrating its edge.

"This entrance feels awfully familiar..." Roland muttered.

"Since we can't establish the blade's exact origins, we can't set an appropriate opening bid. With the seller's permission, we'll be holding one of our rare auctions with no reserve price," the Auctioneer said with a