Stiri new life ( side chapter )

Today, the merchant gleefully announced that we would be sold in Drybay, the bustling fort-port town of the Arvon Empire. His laughter echoed, sharp and cold, as he relished the thought of the fortune he would amass from our suffering. It was a cruel twist of fate, especially knowing he intended to profit off our sale after brutally wiping out my tribe—a grotesque display of greed and cruelty that filled my heart with despair.

Before being put up for sale, we underwent our first thorough cleaning. My teeth were polished until they gleamed, and my hair was meticulously trimmed, each snip getting me ready for the scrutinizing eyes of potential buyers. The merchant's booming voice filled the air as he called out prices—a chaotic mix of numbers and desperation. Suddenly, a striking young woman, clad in elegant finery, stepped forward with a bid for me. Without a second thought, the merchant accepted, his eagerness for the lucrative sale overriding any reservations he might have had.

I caught a glimpse of the boy accompanying her; his face was a blend of disapproval and uncertainty. He seemed to consider my worth, perhaps yearning for someone older or thinking I fell short of his standard of beauty. The tension in the room was palpable as I stood there, reduced to a mere object of trade, trying to navigate the unspoken emotions swirling around us. Those imperial barbarians.

To my surprise, their warmth surpassed my expectations. They showered me with an abundance of food, each bite offering a comforting embrace that left me more satisfied than I could have imagined. In their generosity, they gifted me fresh, vibrant clothes that transformed my appearance and uplifted my spirits. I was welcomed into their home as a maid, tasked with helping with the daily chores that kept their household running smoothly. As I moved through the rooms, the weight of their kindness surrounded me, making my work feel less like a burden and more like a part of a new routine I was embracing.

A week after my arrival, I threw myself into learning the intricacies of their language, gradually unraveling its mysteries. Today was a pivotal moment: the day of my judgment, a test to see if I would be deemed worthy to remain among them.

The long-anticipated day finally arrived, and I was led into an opulent chamber that sparkled with grandeur. Ornate decorations adorned the walls, casting a captivating glow around me. At the center stood an imposing altar, where an elderly man awaited with a serene yet commanding presence. He held a ceremonial dagger, its blade glinting ominously in the soft light, as he prepared to draw my blood. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, and I could feel their expectations swirling around me. As the ritual unfolded, it became clear that they favored my spirit, and I was spared from being cast aside into the shadows. My heart swelled with relief and hope, knowing that I had secured my place among them.

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I apologize for the brief chapter today. I assure you that tomorrow, I'll deliver a double chapter to make up for it. I'm just wrapping up a few final details. Also, don't forget to use your power stones on me! :)