Cherished By Seven Sisters

Chapter 25 Another Surprise
“As you can see, this painting is a corrected version of the original Eagle on a Tree,” said the auctioneer. “That’s because the red
mark in the earlier piece was a mistake. Not wishing to be so half–hearted in his work, Mr. Emerentius painted a new one.”
The bidders felt much more at ease upon hearing that explanation.
“See, I told you. Eastfield Auctions has a strong sense of integrity and doesn’t need to resort to gimmicks.”
“You know, I did notice that the red mark in the other painting seemed somewhat out of place. Sure enough, it wasn’t Mr.
Emerentius‘ original intention to have it there.”
“Mr. Emerentius is such a responsible person. To make us fans happy, he deliberately painted a whole new version. I want to
stan him for life!”
“I totally agree! He’s my idol!”
Emrys could not help thinking there was no need for such strong sentiments.
Yelena flung her arms around his neck and exclaimed excitedly, “I was right, Rys! Hurry up and tell me I’m awesome!”
He chuckled. “You’re really awesome.”
However, the expressions of some people in the last row were a stark contrast to the rest of the crowd’s. They were a sight to
behold, especially Rowan’s. His face looked as black as thunder.
To think I went on a whole spiel about my analysis of the painting the other night. Even Mr. Haberle praised me for being able to
read Mr. Emerentius‘ mind! I never thought it’d come back and slap me in the face.
In the end, the newer version of Eagle on a Tree was purchased for eight million by a wealthy businessman from Summerbank to
add to his collection.
Emrys finally believed that he was a one–in–a–million painting and calligraphy genius. Who knew it was in my blood? It turns out
that the artworks I draw so casually are actually so valuable! I wonder how much the old friar has made from them.
Just as everyone thought that the auction was over and was preparing to leave, they heard the auctioneer say, “Please don’t be
in a hurry to leave. Actually, we’ve prepared another surprise for you today.”

That piqued their interest immediately. A surprise? Could there really be something even more surprising than a new version of
Eagle on a Tree?
They watched as the S**y lady slinked off the stage, only to be replaced by a middle–aged man.
The crowd was shocked, for the middle–aged man was none other than Thomas Sunderland, the owner of Eastfield Auctions.
He was personally carrying an auction item as he walked onto the stage, which intrigued the crowd even further. They were
curious to see what could be more valuable than Eagle on a Tree.
The auctioneer beamed as he announced, “Truth be told, this is also a new piece by Mr. Emerentius. It’s sure to astonish you like
never before.”
Everyone erupted into excited shouts and cheers. So, Mr. Emerentius didn’t just do one painting!
The bidders who had been upset over failing to purchase Eagle on a Tree felt their hope rekindling.
“Take a good look at it, everyone!”
The person who spoke was Thomas. Without any pomp or circumstance, he pulled off the red cloth over it to reveal the artwork.
Instantly, everyone in the room was stunned. They felt as though someone had struck their hearts with a giant hammer.
Painted on the paper was a single rose, blush pink and just beginning to bloom. Its beauty was unparalleled.
Nonetheless, that was not the most astonishing part. Even more mind–blowing was that anyone who stared at the flower for
more than ten seconds would notice a change in what they saw–the —budding rose would seem to come to life and burst into
full bloom. It was an incredibly powerful
visual impact.
Everyb*dy was shocked to the core.
There were many artists who were masters at creating optical illusions, and their works often yielded unexpected visual effects.
One of the most famous works was a painting where the subject appeared to be an elderly woman if viewed upright but, when
viewed upside down, would turn into a young girl. Only someone with skills of the highest level could produce such
masterpieces.