Chereads / The Wounded King / Chapter 5 - Slave Market, Part 2

Chapter 5 - Slave Market, Part 2

All slaves have the freedom of speaking against their masters. That is what the law states. However, not many slaves are allowed to come forth and speak freely by their masters orders. This is in a way against the law, but still commonly practised.

I however, do not abide by these circumstances. I always think of the best method to stay lazy and have less of a burden to deal with. The optimal way of doing so would be to treat the slaves fairly. By doing this, when I would tell them to do my work, I'd face no oppositions. After all, if you give a prisoner his freedom, you become their hero.

I advanced towards one of the many slave merchants and asked the price of the slave I was set on buying.

"This man here was once a native of our neighbouring kingdom, Zoria. He was a warrior back in the days. The situation got the best of him. It would be a great choice to buy him. I was planning on selling him for 900 but instead I'll be kind and sell him off at 750."

I had money to no bounds. A mere 750 wasn't going to prevent me from making my choices. All I needed was a man to handle a steady source of income to secure the future. Buying this man was more like an investment.

I once again glanced at the man. He had black hair with golden eyes that were rather exquisite looking. He had strong muscles, and was malnourished. His skin tone was pale and by his calmness I could tell he was astray. This spoke a lot about his stability.

Nonetheless, I bought him. The slave trader was excited to see a large sum of money and took the man out of the cage. He was then about to place a slave brand* on the man's back but I prevented him from doing so.

I then catechised, " What is your name?"

The slave did not reply.

I continued, "Very well. Then I shall call you Arthur."

I proceeded examined other slaves as I tread around the slave market. Arthur followed my lead. Along the pathway, I saw a crowd encircling one of the cages. I looked and saw a beautiful woman with lustrous black hair, a tan hue and beautiful light brown eyes. As people were bidding in the thousands, I interrupted them. You know the rest.

I now had just over 4 grand and I had only bought 2 slaves. I was now prepared to leave with my poor decisions (my slaves). As I reached home with two new members, I sat at the couch in the living room. The slaves stood in front of me.

"Arthur. From now on, you will serve me by fighting beside me during dungeon expeditions. As a warrior I assume you are already well acquainted with what you have to do. First thing in the morning, we will go to the guild to register."

Arthur complied by a simple nod and continued to stand in front of me. I noticed the girl's dress which was torn across several places.

"What is your name?", I asked the girl.

She replied, "It is Alexandria, master."

"I see. So for today Alexandria, you may rest in any room you like besides mine. I will buy some clothing for you tomorrow. Your job in this household would be that of a maid. Maintaining the condition of the house and the garden will be your top priority."

I looked towards Arthur and continued, "For now, we will leave the mansion and travel to a restaurant. Remind me to bring food for Alexandria in case I forget."

"As for you Alexandria, you will rest and wait for our arrival in your room. In the meantime, if you wish to take a bath, you may do so."

Alexandria replied as she put her hand on her chest and lowered her head, "Yes master. Your wish is my command."

Author's Notes:

1.branding slaves refers to the method of placing a heated iron rod with a specific pattern on the body of the slave.