When Soran stepped toward the pile of core stones, the green card in his pocket pulsed and absorbed them all in a flash.
His moment of triumph soured instantly.
"Argh! This stupid thing!" he cursed, his excitement collapsing into raw frustration.
After venting, he stopped himself. Wasting more stones like this was pointless. He turned sharply toward a companion.
"Eliza, hold my card. I'll pay you later."
Without hesitation, he tossed the green card. Eliza caught it smoothly, giving a silent nod.
Now free of the card's interference, Soran pulled out a silk pouch and began scooping up the remaining core stones. One by one, glittering treasures disappeared into his pouch. The others looked on, jealousy burning in their eyes, but none dared make a move.
When the last stone was stored away, Soran strolled out of the room with a broad, self-satisfied grin.
"Don't worry, everyone. I'm just lucky today. Your turn will come." His voice was thick with pride and arrogance.
