Chapter 62: Investment
The mood in the trio was somewhat gloomy as they watched a slave auction commencing in the heart of the Trader’s Market.
The slave trader’s announcement in each bid, and the buyers’ enthusiasm and lack of feelings toward the slaves, made the scene somewhat grotesque.
No killing or fighting was involved—at least it hadn’t happened, but it was somehow more disturbing than the former.
"Is this what people refer to as the trade crown and not some depraved lives?" Mirelle flashed a disdainful expression.
Leonard said nothing. His eyes quietly swept over the lineup of men, women, and even children on display.
Previously, he didn’t inspect much, but now he has decided to pay some more attention to it. This was something he had to face and not avoid if he sought to maintain his role as a merchant later on.
As his eyes trailed toward the lineup of slaves, they were chained, branded, and stripped of all dignity. Some trembled under the sun, while others stared blankly ahead, their souls already gone.
Not far off, a pair of well-dressed merchants clinked goblets of wine as they laughed over their recent purchases. They were comparing muscle tone and obedience as if picking out cattle.
"Heh, looks like you bought an inferior slave." One of them giggled and slapped one of his slaves’ naked back. "Look at how tough this slave is."
"Whatever. Tough or not, I bet they’re going to turn limbless once they suffer your methods later tonight." The merchant’s buddy snorted and seemed to be used to their antics.
While they continued to discuss which slave to buy next, a servant brought over a plate of food.
However, the food wasn’t for them to enjoy. Instead, it was specifically prepared for the recently purchased slaves, who were clearly malnourished.