The Last Slave King (Volume 1)

CHAPTER 3: The Lost Healers and The Wicked Holy Hero

Part 1: The Healer

The next morning arrived, and Harri and Jessica ventured outside, making their way to the Slave Auction. However, before diving into the day's proceedings, Harri decided to grab some food to sustain them through the lengthy auction. Aware that it would extend from 10 in the morning until 4 in the afternoon without a break, Harri sought a substantial breakfast.

A nearby food stall, offering flat, circular-shaped bread with various fillings, caught his attention. It turned out to be a waffle stand, providing a convenient and satisfying breakfast option that would stave off hunger until supper.

Harri approached the food stall and ordered two waffles. The baker inquired about the preferred fillings for the waffles. Glancing at Jessica, who was captivated by the display of fruits, Harri grinned. He then turned to the baker, requesting one waffle with chocolate and the other with fruits.

The baker swiftly prepared their order, and soon, the delightful aroma of waffles filled the air. With their delicious breakfast in hand, Harri and Jessica headed towards the auction, their faces reflecting satisfaction.

As they neared the slave auction tent, their waffles dwindled, and with just a few bites left, they found themselves standing in front of the auction. Harri noticed a figure peeking from an adjacent tent, but when he looked again, the figure swiftly retreated inside, avoiding eye contact.

Dismissing the incident, Harri and Jessica approached the entrance, where they were met by a tall and slim man in a coat. The man, adorned with a top hat that added to his height, exuded an air of authority with his sharp nose and grim expression.

Slave Master Figrin, grinning with a mix of authority and amusement, introduced himself as the owner of Shackles of Sicalarma. Harri reciprocated the introduction, presenting himself and Jessica as they stood at the entrance. Figrin welcomed them inside with a slight bow and a gesture of his hands, maintaining an air of professionalism.

As they entered, Figrin's keen eye noted the good condition of Jessica compared to other slaves. In his mind, he saw a potential opportunity to sell less desirable slaves to Harri, who seemed likely to acquire slaves regardless of their condition, ensuring a profitable venture for Shackles of Sicalarma.

Harri entered the tent first followed by Jessica.

Inside the tent, a grand stage dominated the view, positioned at the opposite side of the entrance. Circling the stage were five rows of seats, all facing the central attraction. Each seat was meticulously spaced, creating a sense of order and formality. The first four rows were adorned with chairs reminiscent of noble furnishings – comfortable, opulent, and spaced generously. In contrast, the fifth row presented a different picture; simple, ordinary chairs were arranged closely, filling the same number of seats as the preceding rows.

The seating arrangement was clear – masters occupied the first four rows, positioned to observe the auction proceedings with regal comfort. Assistants, limited to one per participant, were designated to the fifth row. However, the varied dynamics of the attendees, including those with additional front seats for companions, resulted in numerous unoccupied chairs in the fifth row.

The haunting memories from Jessica's past auction experience flooded her mind upon entering, causing discomfort and sorrow to wash over her as she entered. The dark room, filled with masked strangers shouting numbers and laughing, played vividly in her memory. The echo of the word "Sold" intensified her emotional distress. As her past seemed to repeat itself, a man approached her closely, his hand reaching out to claim her.

However, a familiar and reassuring voice called out her name, cutting through the distressing echoes of the past.

Harri: "Jessica!"