JLA Watchtower (Archive)

The doors opened at 5:00 pm. Two women, dressed in Italian-design double-breasted jackets and pencil skirts, took invitations from each individual as they walked in through the large double doors.

The foyer opened up into a large, open space, with a crystal chandelier dominating the view of the front. The faux marble tile floors were picking up the multi-hued lights that were strewn along the banisters, up to the second floor lobby. A red carpet trimmed in gold led up the step, showing the buyers the way to the room.

Poinsettias alternated red and white along the pathway to the second floor. Tinsel and garland wound around the wrought-iron banisters. Chairs were set up in rows, but no one had chosen a seat as yet. They were still milling around, most by the two tables set up with the catering. Ice sculptures of Christmas trees chilled prawns and small dishes of caviar, while Champagne was carried on trays by young women dressed in black turtlenecks and chinos.

Conversations whirled and eddied like currents in a stream. A small group had conglomerated next to the edge of the makeshift stage.

“Any chance we can see what we’re bidding on?” A tall, bald man asked one of the security guards working the backstage.

“I’m sorry sir, the goods will be kept from the audience until they are up on the auction block. Those are the rules.”

“I never was one for rules,” the man grumbled. “Very well, I shall wait and let you try to surprise me. I hope for your sake that you will.”

***

The backstage area was cramped but not hopeless. There were a few tables, with items draped on, over, and under them, wherever they could fit. Then there were the few, the brave, the ones willing to be auctioned.

A short, stout, florid man with a yellow necktie poked his head in behind the curtain. “Ladies and gentlemen, the auction will begin soon. Please, make yourselves comfortable, but be certain to listen for when your name is called.”

***

"And Black Canary’s dancing shoes go for five thousand dollars!” There is a smattering of applause and a few groans of envy as the Cuban pumps are handed over to a slender redhead in a violet skirt and black blouse. “Our next item on the block is Hal Jordan, also known as the Green Lantern. Please, let us welcome him to our auction block!”

There is a smattering of applause as Hal Jordan takes the stand. Then, the bidding begins.