The grand Assembly Rooms, generously loaned for the occasion by a city alderman, buzzed with an excited energy that belied the charitable nature of the event. Sunlight, somewhat muted by the tall, arched windows, illuminated a sea of elegantly dressed nobles, merchants, and their wives, all gathered for the much-anticipated charity auction in aid of the Carleton Duchy Orphanage. Well dressed staffs, taken from Chateau Valeré itself, moved discreetly through the aisles, directing latecomers to the few remaining velvet-cushioned chairs and offering programas detailing the lots up for bid.