The Ex-Con Who Conquered the World novel Chapter 117

Janet pulled into the estate grounds, where rows of luxury vehicles gleamed under the evening lights. Clearly, the auction had drawn Marevia's elite—old-money scions and influential figures alike.

After parking, Nina guided Stefan up the cobblestone path toward the manor.

The estate sprawled in classic fashion: immaculate lawns, a stone fountain murmuring softly, and ancient oaks standing sentinel under the darkening sky.

This was no public event. Attendance was strictly by invitation—a privilege Nina didn't need, given her ties to River City's prestigious Locke family.

She led Stefan inside without hesitation.

The grand hall was already arranged for the evening, chairs lined up before a raised auction platform. Light glinted off crystal chandeliers, and the air hummed with murmured conversations.

"The Lockes' auctions are famous across Marevia. Invitation-only, but always packed. They vet every piece—only genuine, high-end items make the catalog. That's why people come from other cities just to bid," Nina explained quietly.

Stefan nodded. He knew the Locke family's reputation well—one of River City's two top-tier families, alongside the Lessings.

Their name alone guaranteed a crowd.

"I've submitted those elixirs you gave me to the Locke team. Wait here—I'll go check their listing status," Nina added.

"Take your time."

With a nod, Nina disappeared into the crowd with Janet, leaving Stefan to observe the gathering.

A refreshment table stood along one wall, offering coffee, wine, and delicate pastries.

Stefan poured a black coffee and let his gaze drift across the room. Guests in evening wear mingled gracefully—men in sharp suits, women in gowns that shimmered under the lights.

Through subtle spiritual awareness, Stefan sensed numerous martial artists, among them, several radiating the distinct energy of Hidden Force Grandmasters.

So far, though, no true martial cultivators had surfaced.

Offering the Quintessence and Meridian-Opening Elixirs had been partly a test—a lure for any Veilscale Society operatives or other cultivators lying low in the city.

Eyes turned toward them. The scandal of River City's top beauty, Sara, bound to an ex-convict had rippled through high society for weeks. Stefan's name was now synonymous with outrage and envy.

Most of the looks directed his way held contempt or mocking curiosity. A few smoldered with outright resentment.

How could someone like him end up with Sara, the city's most beautiful woman?

Marcus Winter chuckled, a low, derisive sound. "So you're the lucky man. An ex-con who landed the city's most coveted bride. Quite the story."

"And who are you telling me what to do?" Stefan replied flatly.

"You insolent—" Zoey stepped forward, eyes flashing. "You don't speak to Mr. Winter like that. Do you even realize who he is?"

"Not really, no." Stefan lit a cigarette, the flame briefly illuminating his calm, unyielding expression.

He took a slow drag, the smoke curling between them like a veil. "And I don't particularly care."