Re: Holding Pens
It didn't take long for Hal to reconsider. The auction was a good idea. He definitely needed some slaves (at least one slave) for his new place. Three is the ideal number, but one would suffice. Putting up appearances aside, he wanted company around the house. Having one he could order around just makes it better. Unfortunately, as much as he wants to scrutinize and observe each and every one of the slaves before picking one best suited for him, he didn't have enough time.
Hal passed by and ignored the younger slaves. Even if he had the patience to deal with them, he'd probably drain them dry if he lost control. The last thing he needed was guilt. No, what Hal needed was a slave who could, theoretically and in case of emergency, hold their own against him. Or at the very least run far away from him. Wolf, if he could, but the auctioneer had apologetically informed him there were none at this point. So he'll make do with what was offered. And what was offered involves an appalling number of children, apparently.
He quickens his steps and moves as fast as he could away from the cries. Women, he'd always been weak against them. Hal stops near the end, taking deep breaths and trying to regain control. The slaves in front of him made no sound, which was a nice surprise considering the melee he had gone through. One slave in particular caught his attention, the one brave enough to touch his shoe. Swipe at his shoe, rather. Well, walking through the muck has already made them a lost cause anyway. He steps closer and takes stock: male, older, not very muscular but not very frail either, gagged and stuck in a cage too small for his frame. Hal steps closer and gestures for the slave to turn his head. "I'm going to take your gag off," Hal says slowly, clearly, just in case this one has trouble with his accent. His face is impassive, and his hands don't shake as he reaches for the gag. "Do not scream. Move closer to the bars so I can see you better."