In the Land of Tianxia, the population disparity between men and women had been a growing concern for several years.
The decline in the number of female childbirths and the increase in male births have raised alarm bells among the ruling authorities, including the not-so-wise emperor.
Seeking a solution to this demographic issue, the Emperor listened to his wife's suggestion and issued a groundbreaking decree.
Recognizing that women had to give birth several times for a female child to be born, the emperor introduced a radical notion that challenged traditional norms and gender roles.
The decree stated that women from the commoner class shall be obliged to have multiple husbands, while noble women were encouraged to marry at least three husbands.
The goal behind this unusual measure was to ensure that every woman in the city can at least give birth to a female child through their men.
The decree was met with a mix of surprise, curiosity, fear, and controversy among the people of Tianxia.
The concept of multiple husbands for women went against deeply ingrained societal norms.
However, the Emperor emphasized that the arrangement was not about dominance or control but rather about ensuring that the female population grows by giving birth multiple times.
For noble women, the decree presented an opportunity to forge alliances and strengthen bonds between influential families.
By marrying more than one husband, they could create interconnected webs of support, uniting powerful factions within the city and creating a powerful force.
This new dynamic not only empowered noble women but also elevated their status within the social structure.
The emperor, fearing that his wife and concubines might retaliate against him, issued another decree that made it clear that men were also granted the same freedom to marry multiple wives.
Both men and women were given equal rights to reject their spouse if they wanted to. Once married, they could not marry another man or woman unless the main husband or main wife agreed to their choice. And a woman could not divorce her husband unless she gave birth to a female child.
His decree was scorned by his own wife, but it was well welcomed among the male population.
Over time, Tianxia began to see the positive impact of the Emperor's decree.
The balance between men and women showed improvement as women gave birth to 2-3 female children in 5 years, and the city thrived as its people united in this new partnership.
Beneath the surface of Tianxia's apparent progressiveness and grandeur, a dark and troubling reality lurked.
While noble women enjoyed the freedom to marry multiple husbands and often found contentment in their arrangements, the low-class women faced a starkly different fate.
The emperor's decree had opened up possibilities for women of all social backgrounds, but it also exposed the vulnerability of the less privileged.
As news of the decree spread, common men saw it as an opportunity to exploit the situation and assert their dominance over women.
In the absence of strict regulations and safeguards, some men began to subject the low-class women to violence and torture.
The noble intentions behind the emperor's decree were tainted by the harsh realities faced by many commoner women.
As time passed, the authorities became aware of the dark secrets hidden within the shadows of Mingying city.
However, they turned a blind eye.
Changes never happened as expected, and many low-class and commoner women continued to suffer in silence.
The stark contrast between the contentment of the noble women and the hardships faced by the lower-class women casted a shadow over the beautiful land.
Tianxia was a place of contradictions, where beauty and prosperity coexisted with pain and injustice.
And it was also the place where four carriages carrying human slaves from across the border arrived to do business.
"Deymmm, why did I just find this introduction right now and not before?" The hoarse and unpleasant voice was clearly upset.
"That's because you were too preoccupied with enjoying your time for the past two years and forgot that you have a system," another voice stated calmly, it held an arrogant notation at the end of its statement.
"Ugh... Ah, If it weren't for the updating notice whenever I opened the system screen, then I would have, of course, remembered it." The unpleasant voice remarked sharply.
"Don't blame us," the other voice replied with a tint of disgust, "the system clearly sent a reminder with a loud noise stating that the update has been done a year ago." It continued, "you clearly heard it but pretended not to. I saw it."
"..." The conversation suddenly ended.
In the heart of the bustling land of Tianxia, hidden away among narrow winding streets, there lay a mysterious and enchanting place known as the "Azure Lotus Garden Auction House."
Steeped in centuries of tradition, the auction house was a grand edifice* with elegant, sweeping roofs adorned with intricately carved dragon motifs, a symbol of imperial power and good fortune.
The interior was lavishly decorated with red and gold tapestries, symbolizing prosperity and wealth, hanging from the walls. The air was filled with the subtle fragrance of incense, adding a touch of tranquility to the bustling atmosphere.
As the centerpiece of the Azure Lotus Garden Auction House, a magnificent grand stage commanded attention at the front of the main hall.
The stage served as the focal point of the auction proceedings, designed to showcase the treasures and significant artifacts up for bidding.
The stage itself was a work of art, adorned with exquisite jade carvings, gilded accents, and intricate patterns that reflected the finest craftsmanship of Tianxia.
The stage was elevated, ensuring that all eyes in the hall were drawn towards it.
Elaborate red velvet curtains framed the edges, adding an aura of richness and grandeur.
Opulent* chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a warm and enchanting glow upon the stage, while ornate floral arrangements graced the sides, infusing the air with the subtle fragrance of fresh blooms.
Surrounding the grand stage were the three floors of private rooms, each level catering to a different echelon* of guests.
The ground floor was reserved for common folk and interested citizens who wished to participate in the auction. The floor had comfortable seating and an unobstructed view of the stage.
As guests ascended to the second floor, they were greeted by an elevated sense of sophistication.
The floor exuded an air of refinement, with polished wooden furnishings and intricate carvings. Silken curtains draped the windows, filtering the sunlight and creating a subdued ambiance, perfect for the city's wealthy nobles to engage in the auction proceedings with elegance and poise.
Stepping onto the third floor was akin to entering a realm of nobility and prestige. Lavish golden accents and antique artworks surrounded the guests as they settled into plush armchairs upholstered* in sumptuous fabrics.
Finally, reaching the pinnacle of exclusivity, the fourth floor chamber exuded an air of mystique, with veiled alcoves*, soft candlelight, and intricately designed dividers to ensure the utmost privacy.
This floor was reserved for the city's most distinguished families, and the seated guests frequently peeked at the floor, hoping to have a glimpse of the people sitting there.
The auction house was bustling with people from all walks of life - distinguished collectors, wealthy merchants, scholars, and even artisans seeking inspiration.
Each guest dressed in colorful silk robes, adding to the vibrant spectacle of the event.
The auctioneer, adorned in traditional attire, stood at the forefront of the stage, a gavel in hand, ready to commence the proceedings.
The soft-spoken yet authoritative voice of the auctioneer filled the hall, captivating the attention of all present.
The auction had three phases, and each phase showcased different types of items and treasures.
The auction house hummed with anticipation as the first phase began.
Random items and treasures from various cultures, kingdoms, and eras were presented on the grand stage, captivating the attention of the diverse audience.
Common folks, wealthy merchants, interested citizens, and esteemed nobles alike participated in this initial round as the auction staff expertly facilitated the bidding process.
Once the first phase concluded after an hour or so, the auction staff gracefully led the guests on the first floor out, leaving behind an air of exclusivity for the privileged few who remained for the second phase.
Delicacies and teas were served to the remaining guests, providing entertainment during the break.
The second phase began with an air of heightened allure. The stage now showcased exceptionally rare artifacts, legendary treasures, and male slaves from various kingdoms carefully curated* for the most discerning buyers.
The bidding became more intense as the prices soared, and the energy in the auction house reached its peak.
After the second phase concluded, it was time for the third and final phase.
The low-rank wealthy guests, who had enjoyed the previous rounds, were now requested to leave, their presence no longer deemed worthy of the extraordinary offerings that lay ahead.
The guests who had not paid the exorbitant* amount to stay reluctantly left the hall, their expressions a mix of disappointment and envy.
Meanwhile, the selected few who remained, having paid a steep price for this privilege, settled into their plush seats, anticipating the exclusive treasures that were about to be unveiled.
As the guests settled back into their seats after a small break, the atmosphere shifted as an older woman took the stage.
She was the mistress of ceremonies, Wei Ling, a formidable figure known for her shrewdness and wit.
With authority, she began to read the rules and regulations of the third phase, her piercing gaze demanding respect from all in attendance.
The rules laid down were both alluring and unsettling.
"The auction house guarantees that each product is in impeccable condition." She emphasized the notion of ownership over the goods once bought.
"Remember, there is no return policy," she paused and grinned with seductive lips, "but the guests could trade among themselves if they are willing." It created an intriguing sense of camaraderie among the elite attendees.
Wei Ling understood the psychology of her wealthy clients, capitalizing on the allure of the beauty and status of her products.
She smiled inwardly as she felt the dark gazes of her customers, "The prettier and more precious my product is, the higher its price." She chuckled, sensing the air of competition.
"My guests can make specific requests with corresponding prices, and we will dutifully fetch your desired product, providing a personalized touch to your item."
However, there was an unsettling twist - Wei Ling declared the final rule in a serious voice, "As always, the guests are responsible for the well-being of their purchased goods after they are bought, and we have the right to refuse selling our goods if we find you guilty."
With the rules established, Wei Ling smiled with a gleam in her eyes and started the auction.
[Side missions to complete the main mission: Side mission 1: Attract the interest of Xu Zhi, the son of a wealthy merchant. Progress: 0%]
As soon as Wei Ling declared the start of the third phase, her disciples led a group of women ranging from the tender age of 12 to the blossoming age of 20 onto the stage.
They stood nervously on the stage, wearing luxurious, revealing attire adorned with jewels and scented with rich fragrance.
Their faces masked a mixture of fear, vulnerability, and resignation as they stood in line, waiting to be bid upon like mere commodities.
The air became heavy with sinister laughs and the wicked voice of Wei Ling introducing each woman to be bought as mere commodities.
"Introducing my first item, Li Ting, a beautiful and graceful 19-year-old girl who had traveled from the cold north to take the imperial examination and become a noble woman."
Wei Ling smiled gracefully as she traced Li Ting's rosy cheek, continuing her words, "but unfortunately, she met a human trafficker who tricked her and sold her to me."
She laughed as she glanced at her audience with open arms, "Isn't she lucky to gain this wonderful opportunity?! My lovelies." Her question was met with sparse yeses and sinister cackles of men from the 2nd floor.
The sophisticated and noble men seated on the 3rd floor, of course, would not answer her aloud, but they nodded their heads.
Li Ting on the stage was a lovely beauty with doe eyes and rosy lips. Due to living in the north, which always had a cold climate, her skin was fair without any blemishes.
She was a little round, but it made her extremely cute and lovely. The men in the room couldn't wait to possess this soft beauty.
Feeling their gazes, Li Ting was overwhelmed with anger and pain. She had thought she could change her life by coming to Tianxia, but it was her dream that sent her to hell.
Wei Ling pushed the sobbing Li Ting forward, starting the bidding, "Since she is well-educated and graceful just like her name, we'll start with 10 gold coins, and each bid should not be lesser than 50 silver."
As soon as she banged the intricate wooden table, the men sang aloud.
"20!" one of the men on the 2nd floor raised his bidding paddle.
"25 gold coins!"
"35 gold coins!"
"50 Gold." A male servant on the 3rd floor raised the bid through his master's order.
Most of the men hesitated to raise the price. Although Li Ting was lovely, that was all. Her kind of beauty could be found everywhere, so most of the men stopped raising the price.
Wei Ling banged the table, "50 Gold going once."
Li Ting shivered as she heard it. Although she was saddened by this cruel turn of fate, she wished to be owned by a good man who could give her a chance to prove her worth.
"50 Gold going twice!"
Li Ting cautiously observed the bidder and realized that he was from the third floor. During her stay in the auction house, she had heard from her new made friends that it was best to be bought by the guests on the third floor rather than the second floor.
She didn't know why, but she was somewhat relieved.
"50 Gold going thrice! And our graceful Lili goes to our guest no. 54. Congratulations, sir!" Wei Ling had a huge grin on her face.
One of her disciples took Li Ting away from the stage, preparing her to be sent off to her new master.
With Li Ting as an example, Wei Ling immediately introduced the next girl and started the bidding respectively.
The atmosphere charged with excitement and rivalry as attendees engaged in the age-old dance of bidding.
The bidding paddles, ornately decorated in hues of red and gold, swayed back and forth like delicate lotus leaves in a gentle breeze.
The stage was stained with sorrow, and the women were thrust into a nightmarish spectacle where they were no longer seen as humans but rather objects to be auctioned off to the highest bidder.
The men placed their bids with a callous indifference, reducing the women to mere commodities.
The more conventionally attractive a woman looked, the higher the price, and their lives would become entangled in a grotesque game of wealth and debauchery.
The young women's hearts standing on the stage sank with each glance of approval towards the most conventionally attractive among them, leaving those deemed "ordinary" to the lowest bidders.
"Fuck, I can never attract the given target with my current state," the masked woman standing in the middle of the line cursed under her breath.
"Hm, that's true, you're too ugly even with the mask," the white parrot that sat on her shoulders seconded her words.
Although a snow-white parrot sat on the woman's shoulder, proudly showing off its appearance, the people present in the auction house couldn't see it.
It was invisible, and only its owner had the privilege to see its beautiful appearance.
Shu Wa'er blankly looked at it, wondering why she got a talking parrot after her system update.
She had expected to receive a gift or two, but instead, she got a talking parrot that only knew how to scold her and annoy her.
Before she could sympathize with herself, she was brought in front of the stage.
"This...." Wei Ling hesitated.
Her sudden pause intrigued several guests.
[Side missions to complete the main mission: Side mission 1: Attract the interest of Xu Zhi, the son of a wealthy merchant. Progress: 25%]
Synonyms (*):
1. Edifice - Commonly used to evoke a sense of grandeur, strength, and significance, whether in the context of physical structures or abstract concepts.
2. Opulent - It typically means it is richly adorned, display of wealth and luxury that goes beyond the ordinary, evoking a sense of extravagance and abundance.
3. Echelon- used to describe a level or rank within an organization o social structure.
4. Upholstered- adjective that describes a furniture that have been covered or padded with fabric, leather, or other materials to provide comfort and aesthetic appeal.
5. Curated - adjective that refers to something that has been carefully selected, organized, and presented by a curator.
A curator is someone who is responsible for selecting and arranging items, artifacts, content, or information to create a specific and meaningful collection or display.
6. Alcoves - small recessed area or nook within a room or a larger space. Often used for various purposes, such as storage, displaying objects, seating, or as a private area for relaxation or work.
7. Exorbitant - an adjective used to describe something that is excessively high, excessive, or unreasonably extravagant, especially in terms of cost, price, or demands.
a/n: Any ideas and suggestions? Lemme know in the comments :')