The Basilica Cistern was an ancient cathedral of water, supported by three hundred and thirty-six towering marble columns rising from the shallow, illuminated pool. For tonight’s auction, temporary wooden boardwalks had been constructed across the water, lined with dim amber lanterns, velvet ropes, and waitstaff carrying silver trays of vintage champagne.Seventy of the world’s most dangerous collectors and antiquities fences mingled beneath the vaulted brick ceilings, the soft hum of conversation mingling with the constant, resonant drip of water echoing through the cavern.Marguerite moved across the central boardwalk with effortless aristocratic grace, her champagne flute held lightly between two fingers. Carmen walked half a step behind her, playing the role of silent security specialist, her eyes constantly sweeping the perimeter.In the center of the chamber, resting on a pedestal of green travertine surrounded by four armed guards, sat the Gilded Reticle.It was breathtaking—a
Last Updated : 2026-10-27
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