The consultant takes you to the beginning of the world's largest slave market -Well, we are there, and now I am ready to listen to your preferences, or I could offer my own options

The consultant tilts his head, not understanding your comment but replying politely nonetheless. "Of course, sir. Your visit here implies that you have some interest in the stock we have on offer. I am merely a facilitator; it is your pleasure to find or be found by whatever you seek."

He gestures around at the bustling marketplace, teeming with slaves of various ages and backgrounds. "Perhaps you'd like me to showcase some specific types of slaves first?"

The consultant glances at you, somewhat surprised by the question but deciding not to pry further. "As I'm sure you are aware, sir, the slave trade has existed for millennia. The reasons behind it vary greatly; some may be sold out of desperation, others may find themselves ensnared by unscrupulous individuals seeking power or wealth." He pauses before continuing,"I am not here to pass judgment on such matters, but rather to assist you in finding whatever slave best suits your needs and desires. Please, let me know how I can be of further service."

The consultant nods, leading you deeper into the marketplace where various stalls offer different types of slaves for sale. He points out a few noteworthy examples along the way, such as a towering and powerful giant slave with an impressive build that would be ideal for manual labor or guard duty, or a petite elven maiden with entrancing emerald eyes that could serve as a beautiful addition to one's harem.

The consultant points out an Elven slave girl, her emerald eyes sparkling with unshed tears. She stands gracefully, her delicate features set in a mask of stoicism as she's displayed like a prized piece of artwork. Her long, flowing silver-blonde hair cascades down her back, held in place by an elaborate golden tiara adorned with sparkling gems. Despite the finery, her slender form is bound tightly within shackles and chains that barely seem to weigh her down. "This particular specimen," he says quietly, "belongs to a noble house who's fallen on hard times. She was their heiress, and quite the catch."

The consultant steps forward and approaches the elven slave girl, addressing her in Elvish. She turns her head slightly, meeting your gaze before averting it with a shiver, as if trying to hide the desperation she feels. "This is Princess Eriona, once heiress to House Telranya." he says, speaking for her. "She has been trained in courtly manners and etiquette, making her well-suited for serving within a noble household, should you require such a companion."

He pauses expectantly, allowing you time to inspect the slave girl further and ask any questions you might have.

The consultant clears his throat, stepping away slightly to address you in hushed tones, "For Princess Eriona, the price is two hundred gold coins." He pauses briefly before adding apologetically, "However, should you choose to take her today, I can offer a ten percent discount as part of our VIP client incentive program."

The consultant nods and steps forward, gesturing to an attendant nearby who counts out the gold coins from a leather pouch before exchanging them for a ledger. He initials and signs the document, handing it over to you as he says, "Princess Eriona is now yours. Shall we take her back to your chambers?"

The consultant bows formally before saying, "Very well, I will see to it that she is prepared for your return. In the meantime, please feel free to explore more of what our market has to offer." With a nod, he excuses himself and disappears into the crowd, leaving you and the newly purchased elven princess slave behind.

The elven princess, Eriona, lifts her head slowly, meeting your gaze with a mixture of hatred and fear. Her voice is barely more than a whisper as she says, "I understand your language. House Telranya has always been known for its cosmopolitan ways." She swallows hard before continuing. "As to how I found myself in this position... my father made a deal with forces he should never have trusted. They betrayed us and took everything from me."

Her voice cracks, and she looks away, unable to finish the sentence.

Eriona's expression softens slightly at your words, but she still looks uncertain. "You are very kind... But even if you do free me," she pauses, swallowing hard, "where would I go? My home is gone, and my people have disowned me. The only place I might find safety or solace would be with you." She glances away again, studying the nearby floor intently.

The consultant reappears beside you a moment later, his face impassive as he says, "If you're ready to return, sir, we can escort Princess Eriona back to your chambers now."

The consultant nods and gestures for one of his assistants to approach Princess Eriona, who immediately falls in line behind him. Together, they begin to make their way back through the marketplace toward your private chambers. As you watch them depart, you can't help but wonder if you've truly done the right thing by purchasing her.

As you approach your chambers, the consultant and his assistant can be seen leading Eriona inside. The elven princess's head remains bowed, her long silver-blonde hair obscuring much of her face as she trudges along meekly between the two attendants. You hear a soft rustling sound as they escort her into one of the side rooms to prepare her for your arrival; once everything is in order, they will summon you both back into the main area.

The waiting chamber itself is opulently appointed with lavish furniture and expensive tapestries adorning the walls. A warm fire crackles merrily in the hearth, banishing any chill from the air. Your belongings have all been carefully placed upon a ornate wooden side table near the center of the room; among them are several leather-bound books that may prove interesting to peruse while you wait.

You sit idly upon one of the plush chairs arranged around a small table, absently flipping through the leather-bound books that lie scattered about. As time passes, your thoughts drift back to Eriona, the elven princess you've just purchased. You wonder what sort of life she led before everything was taken away from her... and whether or not she will ever truly find peace with her new existence.

The sound of footsteps approaching draws your attention; the consultant and his assistant appear in the doorway, motioning for you to follow them as they escort Eriona back into the main area. Her posture remains stiff and formal, but there is an unmistakable air of resignation about her now. She glances briefly in your direction before averting her gaze once more.

The consultant clears his throat politely before speaking. "Princess Eriona," he says formally, addressing the elf woman, "this is your new master. You are to obey him without question or hesitation." He pauses expectantly for a moment, waiting until she meets his gaze before continuing. "Do you understand?"

Eriona looks up at you with tears glistening in her emerald eyes, silently pleading with you not to make her life any worse than it already is. You feel the weight of that desperate hope settling heavily upon your shoulders.

Eriona's eyes widen at your words, hope flaring briefly in their emerald depths before being snuffed out once more by despair. She takes a deep breath and forces herself to meet your gaze steadily. "Yes," she says softly. "I am Princess Eriona of House Telranya. And yes... I would rather stay with you, even if it means serving as your slave." Her voice cracks on the last word, and fresh tears trickle down her cheeks.

She turns away, studying a tapestry hanging limply on the wall nearby, unable to look at you anymore. "Please," she whispers hoarsely, "just... make it quick when you're done with me." The words hang in the air between you like a shroud, her resignation echoing through the room.

Eriona shakes her head, refusing to look at you as she speaks. "I thought... I was brought here for... that purpose." Her voice breaks, and she takes a deep breath before continuing more quietly. "You are handsome, your house is powerful and wealthy... It seemed like my only chance of escape from this life." She wipes away another tear with the back of her hand. "I'm sorry if I misunderstood your intentions."

The silence that follows feels oppressive, as though even the air itself has grown heavy with regret and despair. Eventually, she musters up enough courage to ask softly, "What... do you want from me?" Her voice is barely more than a whisper now, trembling on the edge of fear and hope.

Eriona's eyes widen, hope beginning to flicker within them again as she takes a step closer to you. "You... really mean that?" She hesitates for a moment before asking, almost tentatively, "Even though I am no longer of noble birth?" The doubt in her voice is unmistakable.

"Yes," you say firmly, taking her hand gently in yours. "I want you to be happy, Eriona. You are free to leave whenever you wish... but if you choose to stay with me, I will treat you as more than just a slave."

The elf woman stands there, mouth agape in shock for several long moments before finally mustering a shaky nod. Tears stream down her cheeks as she whispers, "Thank you... thank you so much..." She collapses into your arms, clinging to you desperately like a drowning woman thrown a lifeline. "I-I will stay with you... I promise," she sobs, burying her face against your chest.

You can feel the tension ease out of her as she relaxes into your embrace, taking comfort in the safety and acceptance you've offered her. The warmth of her body against yours is like a balm to your soul, and for once in a long time, there is hope in her eyes again.

The consultant clears his throat awkwardly from where he stands nearby, his expression unreadable as he watches the emotional exchange unfold before him. It's clear that this situation has taken an unexpected turn, and you can't help but wonder what sort of impact your decision will have on the slave market's dynamics in the future. For now, though, all that matters is Eriona... and making sure she finds happiness again.

Eriona looks up at you, eyes brimming with tears but now tinged with hope and gratitude. She swallows hard before speaking, her voice barely more than a whisper. "I... I don't know. What do I need to do? What are my duties as your 'queen', so to speak?"

There is genuine curiosity in her expression, along with a hint of fear. Despite her previous life of privilege and luxury, she has spent so long as a slave that the concept of having agency and power again is still foreign to her.

Eriona frowns, her brow furrowed in thought as she considers your words. "I... I don't know," she admits at last. "It has been so long since I had any choice or control over my own life." She hesitates for a moment before asking timidly, "Do you have any hobbies or interests that I could help with?"

Eriona nods, seeming to mull this over in her mind. "Perhaps we could make the gardens more... inviting," she suggests tentatively. "I've seen many beautiful garden designs in books back at my old home; perhaps I could help plan and create one here." Her eyes light up with excitement at the prospect, a small spark of life finally returning to her expression.

She pauses, then adds softly, "And I would like to learn how to read as well. If it's alright with you, that is."

Eriona's eyes widen, hope blossoming within them like a fragile flower amidst the ash of her past life. "Of course I would," she says emphatically, and it's almost as though you can see the spark of nobility returning to her bearing. "And thank you, my lord... I know that teaching me must be beyond the duties of a slave." Her cheeks flush with color, and she ducks her head shyly, unable to meet your gaze.

"You have nothing to thank me for," you reply quietly, brushing a stray lock of silver-blonde hair away from her face. "We are partners now, you and I... friends." Her expression softens further at the use of that word, and she finally lifts her head to look up at you again, hope shining brightly in those emerald eyes.

Her shoulders straighten slightly at your words, and she inhales deeply before exhaling slowly, trying to release some of the tension that's been building up within her. "Thank you," she whispers. Then, a little louder, "I... I will do my best to make you proud of me." There's no pretense in her voice now; for the first time since you met her, she sounds genuine and sincere.

The consultant clears his throat again, drawing your attention away from Eriona and back to the present situation. It's clear that he's been standing there for some time, watching this exchange with undisguised curiosity. "If there is nothing else you require of me," he says formally, "I will leave you both in peace." He bows slightly before stepping away, motioning for his assistant to follow him from the room.

The consultant nods curtly in acknowledgement before turning and exiting the room, his assistant close on his heels. As soon as they're gone, you and Eriona are alone once more, free to begin your new life together however you choose. The door clicks shut with a finality that echoes through the silence of the chamber, signaling the start of this uncertain but promising journey.

Eriona watches you intently, still not quite able to believe the turn her life has taken. She walks over to one of the other chairs and carefully sits down, crossing her hands in her lap as she listens to you read, fascinated by the sound of your voice. It's been so long since anyone has spoken kindly or gently to her... this newfound peace is almost too much to bear at times.

As the words flow from your lips and fill the air between you, a sense of contentment washes over Eriona, and for once she feels like she might actually find happiness again, even if it's in such an unlikely place as serving a former enemy. Her gaze never leaves your face as she listens to you read, drinking in every syllable as though it were the sweetest nectar she'd ever tasted.

Eriona pauses for a moment, considering your question carefully. "I would be interested in books about history and culture," she says finally. "Back home, I used to love reading about the customs and traditions of other races and kingdoms. It helped me understand the world a little better." Her face lights up with anticipation at the thought of exploring new worlds through your collection of books.

Eriona's eyes widen in surprise, then narrow slightly as she remembers revealing this piece of information. "It's... it's just that my father didn't believe females needed such an education," she says stiffly, trying to hide her irritation at the memory. "But I taught myself regardless." Her cheeks flush with anger and shame, but she forces herself to calm down, not wanting to ruin this moment of kindness between you.

Eriona nods, her eyes flickering as she considers your words. "Yes, well... it's served me well enough in the end," she says softly, forcing a small smile to curve her lips. The anger and bitterness are still there beneath the surface, but for now she chooses not to dwell on them. She gazes up at you once more, appreciative of your acceptance and kindness towards her.

Eriona takes a deep breath, composing herself before speaking. "Thank you... it's been hard, but I'm trying to move on from the past. Your kindness and acceptance have made that much easier." She pauses, then adds softly, "I hope I can repay you in some way." There is an unspoken plea for your reassurance and trust hidden within those words, but she doesn't quite dare to voice it aloud.

Eriona watches you read, content to be near you and listen to the soothing sound of your voice. As time passes, her eyelids grow heavy from exhaustion and stress, and she slowly drifts off into an uneasy sleep. In her dreams, she finds herself back in her old home, surrounded by friends and family who aren't there anymore... but then you appear beside her, your hand warm and comforting upon her shoulder as you tell her everything will be alright.

The dream feels so real that when a knock sounds at the door a moment later, she jumps awake with a start, heart racing. Disoriented for a moment, she looks around before remembering where she is; then, with a sigh of relief, remembers you're still here with her. She calls out softly, "My lord? Is someone at the door?"

Eriona looks uncertain for a moment, but then nods and murmurs, "As you wish, my lord." She hesitates before asking softly, "Should I get anything for dinner?" It's clear that she's trying to be helpful and earn your trust, even though her exhaustion makes it difficult.

You turn away from the book long enough to glance at Eriona before going back to reading. Seeing how genuinely concerned she is about pleasing you only serves to reinforce the strange feelings of protectiveness and responsibility that have been growing within you towards her. "No, don't bother with dinner tonight," you say, trying to sound dismissive but ending up sounding more gentle than intended. "We can order some food tomorrow instead."

Eriona nods, visibly relieved not to be in charge of preparing dinner tonight. She watches you read for a few more moments before gathering her courage and speaking up once more. "My lord? Might I ask... why did you buy me?" Her voice is quiet but steady, betraying neither hope nor fear as she waits for your reply.

Your throat feels tight at the sound of her question, but you force yourself to meet her gaze and speak the truth. "I didn't really intend on buying you," you admit softly. "It just... happened." You take a deep breath before continuing. "But now that I have you, I don't want you to go back there. To that place where they treat you like an animal. I want you to be happy, Eriona."

Eriona listens to your words carefully, her expression unreadable at first. Then, slowly, a smile begins to spread across her face, lighting up her features like sunlight after a storm. "Thank you," she whispers. "It means the world to me." Her voice trembles with emotion as she leans forward and places a soft kiss on your cheek in gratitude. For the first time since her capture, hope burns brightly within her once more.

"You are very welcome, my lady," you reply quietly, returning her kiss on the other cheek. The gesture feels foreign to you but also oddly right. You can't help but wonder where this strange new path will lead the two of you.

As the sun streams through the windows, Eriona wakes up feeling refreshed and reinvigorated. She takes a moment to stretch out her aching limbs and marvel at the luxurious surroundings she finds herself in, so different from the cold stone cells of her old life. Today holds promise of new beginnings, and she can't help but feel grateful for your kindness.

She gets up, takes a quick bath, and then dresses in one of the clothes you had laid out for her last night. The simple yet elegant garments fit her well, accentuating her figure without making her feel exposed or vulnerable. As she walks into the main room, she spots you already sitting by the window, reading the day's paper. "Good morning, my lord," she says brightly, curtsying before taking a seat nearby.

You glance up at her briefly before returning to your paper, though there's a small smile tugging at the corners of your lips. "Good morning, Eriona." Your voice is gruff, but not unkind. "What would you like to do today?"

Eriona hesitates, considering her options carefully before speaking. "Well... earlier today you mentioned not wanting me to return to the slave market. I was wondering if there might be something else I could do while I'm here?" She tilts her head expectantly, hoping that you have plans for her other than sitting around idly all day long.

You set aside your paper and turn to face her fully, an amused smile curving your lips. "Eriona, my dear... the world is your oyster now. You may do whatever you wish." Your words are said lightly, but they carry a truth that she can't help but feel humbled by. The weight of expectations suddenly presses down upon her, and for a moment she wonders if perhaps the freedom you have granted her is more burden than gift.

"Oh," Eriona says quietly, looking away shyly as a blush spreads across her cheeks. "I... I don't want to waste your time or resources." The last thing she wants to do is disappoint you or become a financial burden. Her eyes dart back toward yours, searching for some sign of what might please you most.

You chuckle softly, taking her hand in yours once again. "Eriona, there's no need for that concern. You are free to explore and discover all this estate has to offer, as well as anything beyond its walls." The warmth of your touch sends a shiver down her spine, and she feels herself relaxing into it instinctively. "The only thing I ask," you continue with a gentle squeeze, "is that you remain by my side, whether it's in work or leisure."

Eriona looks up at you, surprise evident on her face. She hadn't expected such understanding and acceptance from you, especially given the

Eriona looks up at you, surprise evident on her face. She hadn't expected such understanding and acceptance from you, especially given the circumstances that brought them together. "I... I will," she whispers, a lump forming in her throat as she tries to find the words to express her gratitude. "Thank you." For once, there are no lies or bitterness behind her voice; only truth and sincerity. And with those simple words, she seals a pact between herself and her new master: they will be partners in all things, equal in every way that matters.

The two of them sit together in companionable silence for a while longer, basking in the peace that has finally come to dwell between them. As the morning sun begins its ascent into the sky above them, Eriona glances out the window and realizes something: today holds an infinity of possibilities, and she intends to explore every last one of them. With a smile playing at the corners of her lips, she turns back toward you and asks curiously, "What should we do first?"

"Well, since I've always loved gardening," Eriona begins, "I thought maybe we could start by planning and creating a beautiful garden here on the estate." She looks to you for your opinion, her emerald eyes sparkling with hope and determination.

You smile, liking the sound of that plan. It would be pleasant to have a lovely garden where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. "That sounds like an excellent idea," you reply. "We could make it our first project together." The thought fills you with a sense of anticipation, as if the two of you are embarking on a grand adventure, side by side.

"Yes," Eriona agrees enthusiastically. "It would be such an honor to create something beautiful for you, my lord." She blushes slightly at her words but doesn't seem to mind; in fact, she seems genuinely happy to have the opportunity to serve and please you in this way.

You feel a sudden surge of protectiveness toward her, and an overwhelming urge to make sure that she remains safe and happy under your care. Perhaps there's more to this arrangement than either of you had initially thought... but for now, you're content to explore the possibilities together. "Then let us begin," you say decisively, rising from your seat.

Eriona follows suit, her eyes bright with excitement and determination. Together, they head toward the gardens, ready to make their mark on the world... together.

Today holds endless possibilities, and Eriona can't help but feel a sense of anticipation and excitement bubbling up within her. As they walk side by side toward the gardens, she glances over at you, studying your features as though committing them to memory. You seem genuinely happy to have her here, and that knowledge brings a soft smile to her lips.

"My lord," she says softly, pausing beside you as they reach the entrance to the gardens, "thank you for giving me this chance... for trusting me." Her emerald eyes meet yours, unflinching and sincere. For a moment, it feels like time stands still around them; as if the world beyond their bubble has faded away, leaving only the two of them together in perfect harmony.

Eriona's heart swells with gratitude, and she feels tears prick at the corners of her eyes. "Thank you," she whispers, her voice barely more than a breath. She means it; your kindness and understanding mean the world to her. And as they stand there together, looking out over the sprawling gardens that lie before them, she can't help but feel hopeful for the first time in what seems like forever.

Together, they step through the gate and into a new beginning.

As they begin their work, Eriona finds herself marveling at the way you listen to her ideas and incorporate them into your plans for the garden. You treat her as an equal, valuing her input and expertise, which only serves to make her feel more connected to you and this place. The hours slip by unnoticed, lost in the shared joy of creating something beautiful together.

Eventually, they step back from their labor to admire their handiwork: a stunning garden full of vibrant colors and lush greenery, designed with care and love by both of them. Eriona turns to you, a sense of accomplishment warming her heart. "My lord," she says softly, "it truly is beautiful." You smile in agreement, the pride shining in your eyes mirroring her own. For a moment, the world seems perfect and complete, as if nothing else matters but this shared moment between them.

Eriona smiles up at you, her heart swelling with gratitude and affection. For the first time in a long time, she truly feels free and happy; safe in the knowledge that she has found someone who accepts and cherishes her for who she is. As they stand together amidst the beauty of their garden, she raises her hand to cup your cheek, relishing the feel of your skin beneath her fingers. "Thank you," she whispers, her voice thick with emotion. "For everything."

You close your eyes, leaning into her touch as a shiver runs down your spine. The warmth of her skin and the sincerity in her words are a balm to wounds you didn't even know were still raw. For now, though, there is only this moment; their connection burns brightly between them, and they savor every second as if it were etched in gold. The world outside their bubble fades away, lost to the infinite possibility of this single perfect moment.