Chapter 10: Average Slave Price List
The vendor smiles. "Yes, indeed. All slaves here are bound by powerful magic to ensure they obey their masters. It's a contract formed by those of us who have a high level in the Slave Merchant class, a contract that prevents rebellion and ensures loyalty. It's perfectly safe and reliable."
I nod, taking in his words. "Can you tell me more about the demi-humans? What skills do they typically have?"
He gestures towards the demi-human section of his stall. "Demi-humans are quite versatile. Many have enhanced physical abilities due to their animalistic traits. They can be excellent fighters, trackers, or even workers, depending on their background and training. For example, the dog-kin over there is known for his strength and sharp senses, making him a formidable combatant.
The rat-kin is quick and agile, perfect for tasks requiring speed and stealth. And the rabbit-girl has a keen sense of hearing and can detect danger from afar. Some of them are also exotic bed warmers that demand a premium price from customers should the young master wish to open up a slave brothel. They can also thrive in such a place because beast-kin tend to have more endurance than humans.
A few punches here and there doesn't even phase them and even if they get injured they regenerate quite fast."
Oh boy. Being a sex slave sounds like a lovely way to live one's life, I must say.
"Thank you for the information," I say. "I'll need some time to consider my options."
The vendor nods, understanding. "Take your time, young master. A wise choice can make all the difference."
With that, I step back and continue to explore the market, my mind racing with possibilities.
After an hour of wandering around I've seen most stalls and inspected their offerings, I feel confident in creating an average price list estimate.
Crippled good-for-nothings: 1-5 silver
Simple manual laborers: ~25 silver
Well-built manual laborers (with above-average strength): ~50 silver
House servants: ~25-100 silver, varying by experience and appearance
Sex slaves: ~25-300 silver, with young, beautiful elves reaching over 10 gold (1,000 silver)
Combat slaves: Low-level fighters start at 1 gold, with those above level 10 costing 3-5 gold, and those above level 20 easily exceeding 15 gold. Mages cost significantly more than non-magic classes.
The most expensive slaves are those with both combat and sexual skills, often doubling their price. Young elves also demand a hefty premium due to their longevity, serving for generations if well-kept.
Unless I want to waste my money to house and feed a crippled old man or woman I can't afford anything here, but it was definitely worth the time and effort to come here. I gained a lot of information and also had the chance to experience such a surreal, otherworldly place.
As I leave through the gates, my attention is caught by a large mansion that also deals with slaves. The sign above the entrance reads "House of Aleron." Unlike the crowded and filthy market stalls, this establishment looks prim and proper, exuding an air of sophistication and wealth.
The mansion's well-maintained facade, with its grand columns and meticulously landscaped gardens, contrasts sharply with the rest of the market.
I know I can't afford anything here, but curiosity drives me to check it out. I shamelessly ascend the stone steps and push open the heavy wooden doors. The interior is just as grand as I expected: polished marble floors, intricate tapestries, and elegant chandeliers casting a warm, welcoming glow.
Unlike the market, there are no slaves on display; the only one I see is an older woman sweeping the floor.
A well-dressed attendant greets me with a courteous bow. "Welcome to the House of Aleron. How may I assist you today?" he asks with a practiced smile.
"Just looking around," I reply, trying not to appear out of place. "It's my first time visiting an establishment like this."
"Of course," the attendant responds, his smile unwavering. "We aim to provide a more private and personalized experience for our clients. If you would follow me, I'll take you to a private room where one of our merchants will join you shortly."
Intrigued by the excellent level of service, I follow the attendant down a lavishly decorated hallway. He leads me to a comfortable, private room furnished with plush sofas and a small table. The room is tastefully decorated, with soft lighting creating a soothing atmosphere.
"Please make yourself comfortable," the attendant says, gesturing to the chairs. "My colleague will be with you shortly."
I settle into a seat and wait patiently, taking in the refined ambiance of the room. After a few minutes, the door opens, and a well-dressed man enters. He has a sharp, professional demeanor and carries a leather-bound ledger in his right hand.
"Good day," he says with a nod. "I am Marcus Aleron, one of the senior merchants here at House of Aleron. How can I assist you today?"
Oh, is this a family business?
"I'm interested in learning more about the slaves you have available," I reply, aiming for composure. "Though I'm not currently in a position to buy, I'd like to understand the skills and backgrounds they possess."
Marcus nods understandingly as he takes a seat on the sofa positioned in front of mine with the table standing between us. "Of course. We cater to a wide range of needs and can provide slaves with various skills and expertise. Could you specify any particular qualities or abilities you're looking for?"
I ponder for a moment. "I'm interested in individuals who could serve in both combat and support roles. Perhaps someone with healing abilities or proficiency in melee combat."
Making a note in his ledger, Marcus responds, "We have a few candidates who might meet your criteria. Would you like to see their profiles?"
"Yes, please," I reply.
He opens the ledger and begins describing several slaves, each with their painted portrait accompanying their details: