Chapter 254

Emmett and his group followed suit, stepping into the auction venue. One of Vaughan Group’s senior executives frowned. “Una is unbelievably arrogant. The way she talks, it’s like all the top-grade emeralds in this auction are already in the Woodward Group’s pocket.”

The most experienced stone gambler in their group nodded grimly. “Una has risen to prominence in the last two years. Her reputation in the stone gambling world is at its peak. Every time she attends a public or private auction, she walks away with an unbelievable haul. Her winning rate is over 90%—almost every stone she picks ends up producing high-quality or even top-tier emeralds.”

“In the industry, people say she’s a born stone gambler, exceptionally gifted and unparalleled in her ability. We can’t underestimate her this time.”

Another stone gambler agreed. “It’s true. She’s ridiculously skilled. She just has to touch a raw stone to tell if there’s emerald inside. From what I’ve heard, every stone she’s publicly chosen has turned out to be a winner—never a loss.”

Remy, remembering his own experience, scoffed. “Who knows if she’s using some shady tricks?” He was sure Una wasn’t playing fair.

The stone gambler sighed. “Whatever method she’s using, the fact remains—she’s taking all the best emeralds.”

Phoebe suddenly asked, “If she’s that famous and that good, hasn’t anyone tried to target her?” Una was clearly flaunting her abilities. It made sense—displaying such extraordinary skill made her invaluable to the Woodward Group, granting her more influence. At the same time, it ensured her status in the stone gambling world, giving her access to powerful connections. No wonder even Stanley had to bow to her.

But being so high-profile should have made her a prime target.

The stone gambler replied, “Of course, but Una has powerful backing. No one dares to touch her, which is why she’s so brazen.”

Phoebe narrowed her eyes. “It’s not just the Woodward Group backing her, is it!”

The stone gambler shook his head. No, the Woodward Group doesn’t have that kind of influence. They can’t let her monopolize this many emeralds and still walk away unscathed. Her real backer is someone much more powerful—but no one knows who.

“Some people have tried to go after her, but they all ended up in terrible situations. Since then, no one has dared to cross her.”

Phoebe pressed further. “With her skills being so unnatural, hasn’t the Horoscope Association or any special agencies investigated her?”

The stone gambler nodded. “There were suspicions that she was using illegal methods, so she was reported. The Horoscope Association did conduct an investigation, but they concluded that she was just naturally gifted—no foul play involved.” His expression carried a hint of envy. “Some people are just born lucky. No point being jealous.”

Phoebe nodded thoughtfully. “I see.” So, the Horoscope Association had looked into Una. Had they genuinely failed to detect anything suspicious, or had they deliberately covered for… Phoebe strongly suspected the latter. It seemed Una’s backer had inside connections within the Horoscope Association. Now that makes sense. For someone to orchestrate this for years, laying out such an extensive web of influence—it couldn’t be simple.

Chapter 251

This was the biggest public auction in the last decade. Many domestic jewelers and stone gambling enthusiasts had gathered, making the venue incredibly lively. The auction followed a single-round bidding system, with two methods of bidding: open bidding and sealed bidding.

In open bidding, each stone had a base price, and buyers would remember the stone’s number and compete in an auction. If no one contested a stone, it could be won at a low price. If multiple bidders were interested, the price would rise accordingly—but at least everyone knew the competing bids.

In sealed bidding, buyers would inspect the stones, take note of their numbers, and submit their own bids privately in sealed envelopes. The higher bidder would win, but no one knew the competing prices in advance.

The auction area was divided into four sections: A, B, C, and D. A and B sections were for open bidding. C and D sections were for sealed bidding. Today’s event focused mainly on open bidding. For sealed bidding, buyers would inspect stones and submit their offers today, but the results would be announced tomorrow.

Everyone entered Zone A to examine the raw stones, noting down potential choices and setting price expectations. In the afternoon, they would participate in the bidding based on their evaluations.

The exhibition area was filled with towering piles of raw stones—most of them uncut, untested. This was pure gambling—whether there was emerald inside was entirely unknown. However, these stones also offered the highest potential for hidden treasures. There were also some semi-cut stones, where a small window had been cut to reveal an emerald surface. These still involved risk—there was no guarantee that the exposed gems extended deeper into the stone. Finally, there were a few fully revealed emeralds, already extracted and displayed. These were the safest option—no gambling involved—but there were no opportunities for bargains either.

Emmett and the experienced stone gamblers began their evaluations. Phoebe requested pen and paper and started inspecting stones diligently. She could have used her ability to sense energy fields to detect emeralds inside the raw stones. A stone with a unique magnetic field almost always contained emerald. And by analyzing the strength of the field, she could even gauge the quality of the emerald inside. But she wasn’t going to cheat. If she snatched up all the emeralds, what was the point of the auction?

Instead, she used the stone gambling techniques she had learned in a different world—analyzing surface texture, color, luster, shape, and fracture. She also carried tools—a bottle of water and a specialized flashlight—for closer examination.

Seeing Phoebe seriously studying the stones, Remy laughed. “Phoebe, you know how to gamble on stones too?”

Before Phoebe could respond, Maddox chimed in confidently. “Of course she does! Look at her—she’s clearly an expert.” His eyes gleamed with admiration. Phoebe looked so damn attractive when she was focused on work.

Henry rolled his eyes. This guy is a complete Phoebe fanboy.

Phoebe chuckled. “Yeah, I learned from my mentor. I know a thing or two. Thought I’d buy a few stones for fun.” Then she added, “If you guys want to try your luck, pick a few stones you like. I can help you take a look. But fair warning—my judgment isn’t 100% accurate. If you pick a dud, don’t blame me.”

Maddox grinned. “That sounds great! Stone gambling is all about luck. If we lose, it’s on us.”

Remy laughed. “Alright, I’ll pick a few too.”

Phoebe let them choose freely, encouraging them to rely on their instincts. After they took notes on their selections, she would evaluate them one by one. Meanwhile, as they examined the stones, her attention remained on Una.