For all the fuss of our trip to the capital, it seemed that Zaid’s business with me had already concluded. I was glad things had gone so smoothly, but at the same time, I wondered whether the summons had really been necessary. Zaid had called it a formality, so maybe he hadn’t had a choice.
“Lord Zaid,” Lynne said, stepping forward. Though we had resolved my reason for being here, she had other matters to attend to. “Your letter to my father mentioned that you would share the whereabouts of the Lepifolk. I must ask that you elaborate.”
“Yes, I suppose it did, didn’t it?” Zaid hummed, his tone jovial. “To my knowledge, several demonfolk will soon be up for auction. I knew the Kingdom of Clays was making a zealous effort to locate them, so I decided to inform your father.”
“Up for auction...?” Lynne repeated, a flash of distaste marring her composure.
“You might not be aware, as you are not from these lands, but Sarenza City holds a grand auction each year. There, one can find rare curios from all over the continent, unique magical items excavated from the Dungeon of Oblivion, state-of-the-art golem models made by master artisans, and more. As it happens, there is a rumor that a large number of demonfolk will be on the list this year.”
“You intend to sell people?”
“Indeed. The demonfolk, as you know, have been sought as slaves ever since the high priestess of Mithra’s proclamation—one she only recently overturned. Their cursed ability to read minds and control monsters is fearsome, yes, but also exceedingly beneficial when put to proper use. After all, it is not the quality of the tool that matters, but how one uses it.”
With each word, Lynne’s expression darkened, and Rolo’s head dipped slightly lower. Zaid, however, continued with a smile.
“If you would like to take part, Lady Lynneburg, you are more than welcome to. I should also inform you that Sarenza has developed many convenient tools to ensure a comfortable environment for one’s demonfolk. If you need any for your slave attendant, we would be more than happy to provide them.”
“Lord Zaid.” Lynne raised her chin, staring straight at him. “First, allow me to correct your misconception: Rolo is not my slave, but my friend. Second, the Theocracy of Mithra—having moved past its hostility toward the Lepifolk—should have already sent formal missives to its allied nations, including yours, regarding the proper usage of their race’s name.”
“Ah, my sincerest apologies! Truly!” Zaid exclaimed with a grin. “‘Lepifolk,’ yes. Old habits die hard, as they say, but that is no excuse—I must be more careful going forward. Please forgive me if I’ve caused any undue distress. Your opposition to the slave trade is a cultural difference of which I should have been more mindful.”
Lynne’s eyes narrowed, and she seemed to consider her next words carefully. “When, might I ask, will this auction be held?”
“It was scheduled for several days ago, but I requested to have it postponed when I received word of your visit. If you wish to attend, we could hold it today, even.”
Lynne turned to me, her expression uneasy. “Instructor...” I could tell she was having a hard time making up her mind.
“I’m not sure I have the whole picture, but...that’s where Rolo’s friends will be, right?” I asked. “I think we should go, then. We can figure out the rest as it comes.”
Lynne pondered my response, then nodded. “Yes, you’re right.”
At once, Zaid issued his order: “Our guest wishes to attend the auction. See to it immediately.”
“Yes, Master Zaid,” Wize acknowledged. He turned to Lynne and produced an elegant box, which he opened to reveal a small coin.
“What is this?” Lynne asked.
“It is proof of your right to participate. Ordinarily, it is given only to those of suitable reputation or standing after a rigorous review process. Please keep it safe, as it cannot be reissued.”
“I understand.”
Zaid watched closely, smiling affably as Lynne took the coin.
“As you know, Lady Lynneburg, our nations have long been on less-than-favorable terms,” he said. “It is my hope that we can use this opportunity to smooth matters over. That is why I invited you here—though I assume you have already inferred that much.”
“Yes, I came here as an envoy of the Kingdom with similar intentions.”
“In that case, let us both strive to get along in harmony.”
“I truly hope we can, from the bottom of my heart.”
“Show them around, Wize,” Zaid addressed the man in black. Then he turned his attention back to Lynne and said, “Well then, I must bid you farewell—for now, at least. Let us speak of your observational tour of the Dungeon of Oblivion at a later time.”
Lynne gave a slight bow. “Thank you for your consideration.”
Rashid glanced at Shawza beside him, a mischievous grin creeping onto his face as he turned his back on Zaid. “See you later, father,” he said. “Give my best to my greedy little brothers. And tell them I apologize for breaking their toys.”
Our business complete, we departed, leaving Zaid—and the opulent chamber—behind.