PAIR OF SLAVES

As the auctioneer prepared to introduce the next slaves, Master Alex’s pulse quickened. He knew this was the moment he had been waiting for. The auctioneer's voice broke his reverie.

"Next, we have Lord Edmund Harrington and Frederick Harrington, offered as a pair. Starting bid: 10 Thorn coins."

The room fell silent as the two familiar figures were led onto the stage, shackled and stripped of their dignity. Their eyes, once filled with haughty arrogance, were now clouded with fear and resignation.

"10 Thorn coins," Alex called out, his voice steady and filled with resolve.

"20!" Another master raised the bid quickly.

"30," Alex responded without hesitation.

"40," came the counterbid.

The room watched in fascination as the bids increased, but Alex was determined.

"50!"

"60!"

"70!" Alex's voice rang out, firmer and more commanding.

"80!" another master challenged, but Alex could see the hesitation in his eyes.

"100!" Alex declared, his bid silencing the room.

The auctioneer looked around, giving a moment for any further bids. When none came, he raised his gavel. "100 Thorn coins, going once, going twice... Sold!"

Alex felt a rush of triumph as the gavel came down, signaling his victory. Lord Edmund and Frederick Harrington, the very men responsible for his fall from grace, were now his property. The irony was sweet, and the anticipation of their impending degradation filled him with a dark satisfaction.

As the two former aristocrats were led off the stage, Alex's mind raced with plans for their future. They would learn the true meaning of humiliation and servitude under his rule, and he would relish every moment of their descent.