The pair approach while discussing payment, trying to settle on a price. You glare at them and struggle against your manacles, your futile attempt doing little more than rattling the metal. The warrior glances at you and sneers, “Shut up. You will be free soon, long enough to die in the arena.”
“Fuck you!” You shout, your voice booming over the noisy street.
The man jumps, as do several of people nearby, and all eyes turn towards you. Surprise etched on his face, the warrior turns to the slaver, “He talks? Where the hell did you find a talking minotaur?” You can hear people in the street muttering comments about you, shock evident in their voices.
The slaver smiles, “Trade secret. Of course, I am sure you understand now why he’s worth more than what you were offering.”
“Oh yea, he will be more than worth it.” The warrior glances at you, “It’s a shame he isn’t a skilled fighter, though I…”
“I would like to buy that minotaur.” Another voice interjects, cutting off the warrior. Craning your head, you catch sight of a handsome young man with blonde hair and wearing simple but elegant clothes. You would guess he is probably in his early 30’s.
The warrior casts him a glare, his hand drifting to his sword as a threat, “Too late, he’s mine. Go find your own minotaur.”
Undaunted, “I would prefer the talking minotaur, and as I understand it the sale has not been completed.”
The slaver shrugs, “If you've got the coin to beat his offer then the beast’s yours.”
The three begin haggling, you try to listen in but their voices are blending in with those of the crowd growing around you. However, you can tell that the warrior is growing more irritated by the second while the newcomer maintains his neutral, relaxed expression.
After several minutes, the warrior stomps off, practically fuming, and the newcomer passes the slaver a coin pouch which is immediately pocketed. The two walk over to you as they continue to talk.
“Do you want us to transport him for you?” The slaver asks.
“Certainly not, I can handle taking him from here.” The blonde man replies, pulling some cord out of his pocket as he walks past your right side. You turn your head, trying to see what he is doing but can’t get the angle.
The slaver smirks and looks past you at your new owner, “The creature isn’t broken or trained yet. He’s not even neutered. You sure you can handle him yourself?” Panic flashes through you as he mentions neutering and you struggle against the chains again. “See? The moment we release him, he is likely to attack or run. How do you plan to control him?”
In your brief burst of panic, you didn’t notice the man climb up behind you until he slips the cord around your neck and causes another burst of panic. But he calmly whispers into your ear before you can resume your struggles, “Calm, my friend. I will not hurt you. You need not fear me.” The words instantly make you feel relaxed and even safe. You still feel weary of the man, but you can’t bring yourself to resist him. The man secures the cord around your neck, then addresses the slaver, “I have my ways, he is no threat to me or anyone else. Release him.”
The slavers quickly comply with unlocking your manacles, allowing you to sit up. Your new owner waves for you to get out of the cart, “Come, I have much to do today.”