Shadows Of Teneria

testament to its grandeur, with sweeping dragon-themed arches and spires that seemed to touch the sky. The White River, its tranquil wat

layed, chasing each other through the winding streets, while craftspeople hammered and chiseled, creating masterpieces to adorn the city's already i

. Devotees thronged the temple's steps, seeking blessings and guidance from the wise priests. Nearby, th

like polished ivory, adorned with gold accents that seemed to dance in the sunlight. The palace's grandeur was awe-inspiring, its bea

to the imperial soldiers. Every citizen, from merchant to artisan, knew their place within the empire's int

to watch over the city, a symbol of the empire's enduring strength and majesty. As the sun began to set, casting a warm

lpable, and its people knew they were part of something g

shadows lurked, hiding the darker truths of the empire. Amidst the bustling streets, a process

n silence. Brands on their wrists or foreheads marked them as pr

ore fresh wounds, while others showed the wear of years in bondage. Their de

any dissent. The city's elite passed by, unmoved by the sight. This

tion wafted out, mingling with the city's vibrant atmosphere. As the slaves approached, the market's overseer, a burly m

led. The empire's prosperity was built upon their backs, and t

nd merchant stalls. The air reeked of sweat, fear, and desperation. Torches cast flickerin

ron bars separated them from freedom, while wooden platforms elevated the au

l Crest, a constant reminder of the empire's sanction. Guards patrol

yielding. His reputation for ruthlessness preceded him. As the morning sun climbed higher, the mar

y of their situation.At the front of the procession, their captors, the notorious slave traders, the Rykard Brothers, led the

latest haul from the conquest of Irina by imperial forces. As they approached the Slave Market, the

rance, where Gorin, the overseer, awaited. His reputation preceded him, and a shiver ran down her spine. The Rykards led the procession into the marke

see what you've brought me."As the Rykards began to unload their human cargo, Ki

invasion. Memories of her family's farm, the rolling hills, and the sparkling Lake Eldrid haunted her. She recalled the day the imperial forces arrived

to walk further into the market , Liane's gaze fell upon her fellow captives, also from Irina. Some bore similar scars, others seemed cata

e stock from Irina." Kael Rykard stepped forward. "Captured during our campaign in Irina. She's been... spirited."

st the chains."Hmm... could be valuable to the right buyer," Gorin muttered, jottin

u'll make some merchant or noble very happy" he said

ile. " You've got spirit I like that bit let's see how much spirit you have when you feel the first

er, stood at the forefront, surveying the slaves. "Welcome, merchants and traders," Gorin declared. "Today's selection features the

ses, stepped forward. Her gaze swept the slaves, her expressio

origin, skills, and health. Each slave's answers were succinct, their voice

" She asked. "Eighteen" she replied looking down. The woman s

gaze lingered on Liane's face be

ehold chores.". The assistant's eyes

hint of excitement flickered in her eyes."Ah, this one will fetch a fine price," she murm

opped, shame and fear warring within her. The assistant moved to the next slave,

, carefully selected for their strength, skill, and beauty." He paced along the auction block, his voice booming. "You'll find farmers, craftsmen, and domesti

We assure you, they have been thoroughly inspected and prepared for your p

est bidder claim their prize." The market erupted into a flurry of activity as m

hanging precariously in the b