TBAY: AUCTION GOODS (Police Seizure and Repossessed Items)

[M.Clifford]

No: HPFGUIDX 110106

In the cramped hall, whispering among the crowd flooding the narrow 
spaces between, some were settling themselves into the cushioned 
seats, others lingered in the edge passages sampling fares.
Without warning the white noise dissipated and all eyes turned to 
the stage where a curious looking auctioneer was taking up his 
hammer......

'First cab off the rank now folks..... Collector Cards we have some 
five of these, each emblazoned with the gold standard in "Clean 
Dishes" company seal here on the back. This great little nicknack is 
really an amazing party trick for the user...... use it to be 
everywhere at once.... so how shall we start bidding for a peice... 
do I hear 10 knuts... 10 knuts... 12... thats 12 a piece ladies and 
gentlemen.."

The cards sold quickly at the low bid. The takers all looked pleased 
with their aquisition, but those seated beside them were a little 
apprehensive, murmurs began among them 'You need a timepiece for 
that trick...' was said and 'The front is not that animated is it? 
I'd expect more life in the illustration.' said another. 

Attention soon returned to the auctioneer as he announced the next 
item to to the group; 'This magnificent timepiece ladies and 
gentlemen....' he held up a tall hourglass carved in ebony like a 
chess piece, sculpted long fingers adorned the edges interwoven with 
mirror pieces. 'A piece of finecraft if I ever saw one....'

The bidders looked at each other for a tense moment, one would 
suppose wondering who dared bid for this obviously rich ask.

The auctioneer continued... 'This red substance inside, everyone, is 
pure sugar... you'll all agree that makes it entirely reliable... 
then I'll have an opening bid at 500 galleons.

Something happened at that moment that took the room by complete 
surprise. 
'500 Galleons'
A bidder had raised her hand, willing to pay such riches for the 
masterpiece. The crowd hushed. The name on the card was Vivian. 

'Sold!' cried the auctioneer 'and onto the next item here today, an 
authentic working model of Galadriels Raft.... lovely craftsmanship 
here... look at these abstract details on the bow.... all finished 
off nicely with these E motifs delicately placed and polished... now 
lets aim high here lets say 150 sickles anybody...'

Some interests had been raised and someone raised their card...

'Do I hear more than 150 sickles.....'

Another card levitated...

'155.... any advance on 155...'

'200' The Fox contracted shyly into her chair realising suddenly 
that she was attracting attention and some contemptuous glares from 
the crowd, 'I'm really only interested in it's ornamental value' she 
offered in a small voice 'It is very pretty..'