Chapter 37: The Auction

The next morning.

News birds carried newspapers across every inhabited island.

"A Celestial Dragon, Donquixote Homing, and his family have renounced their status and become commoners... The World Government announces that their lives are no longer its concern..."

"Charlotte Linlin and Kaido have joined forces in the New World, devastating several islands and causing widespread chaos. Refugees are fleeing in droves. The news agency will continue to monitor the situation..."

"Edward Newgate has welcomed his fourth son, hosting a shipboard celebration that lasted all night. Guests only began to disperse at dawn..."

"Renji, the Admiral of the South Sea, has left the Kingdom of Sorbet alone to continue his campaign against pirates."

"Hero Garp has returned to his hometown in the East Blue, striking fear into the hearts of pirates along the way..."

...

In a grand hall, the crowd buzzed with noise and excitement.

Under the dim lights of the auction house, people dressed in luxurious attire adorned with jewelry flaunted their wealth.

"Thank you for your patience," a man in a black tuxedo said passionately, delivering his opening remarks. "We will now begin the monthly Human Auction at Grove 1."

"And now, for your entertainment, the star of the auction house—Mr. Disco!"

Under the dazzling lights of the auction stage, a man in flamboyant clothing strode dramatically to the center.

His exaggerated expressions were like a theatrical performance, every line on his face conveying extreme emotions.

"This time, we have prepared a number of high-quality slaves for you," Disco announced, waving his gavel. "You're in luck, as we also have some highly sought-after items. I sincerely hope you find the perfect slave."

Behind the auction stage, slaves were held in groups within different cages, their faces etched with despair.

Their eyes were hollow and lifeless, their chains and shackles seemingly eternal restraints. They couldn't hide their fear and helplessness.

"Why did he bring us here?" Doflamingo, disguised, squirmed uncomfortably, trying to free himself from the filthy clothes he wore.

"Stop struggling. There's no way out of this place..." Dragon glanced at the boy beside him, eyeing the chains that bound them.

For him, this was a novel experience. Usually, he was the one respected and imposing chains on prisoners. Now, the tables had turned...

He shifted to a more comfortable position against the wall. "We'll find out where he is soon. For now, let's wait. This is something we've never experienced before."

This was the darkness of the world, a tragedy perpetuated by everyone present.

Indeed, Dragon and Doflamingo had been sold by Renji to the Sabaody Archipelago.

After speaking, Dragon closed his eyes and listened quietly to the cries from the neighboring cells.

In the center of the auction house, nobles sat in comfortable chairs, sipping wine with elegant gestures as they chatted and awaited the arrival of the auction items.

"What are you planning to buy this time?"

"The human slave I bought last time didn't last ten days. So, if possible, I'd like to buy a young, strong fish-man."

"I want to buy two or three beautiful young women to admire. I wonder what kind of women will appear. I'm so excited."

"Hahaha."

For them, this wasn't just an auction but a refined social event. They relished the thrill and joy of bidding.

Watching the growing excitement around him, Disco laughed heartily. He was the chief auctioneer, and years of experience had taught him how much wealth his talent could bring.

Shifting his gaze from the crowd, he clapped his hands and smiled. "Ladies and gentlemen, I know why you're here. So, for this auction, we'll bring out the best items right away."

With a wave of his hand, the stage lights dimmed.

Under the spotlight, two guards led a man with a collar around his neck onto the stage.

Disco picked up a microphone and began introducing the item. "The first item is from the North Sea. He can cook, clean, and is exceptionally handsome. He's charming and can fulfill all your needs."

"A robust 22-year-old man."

"Bidding starts at 300,000 Berries."

"Please raise your paddles to bid."

Disco, smiling confidently, set the starting price high.

"What a disgrace..." Renji sat in the VIP section, watching the spectacle with a cold smile.

They say that without demand, there would be no supply. But in Renji's eyes, slaves being killed outright was almost a mercy compared to the suffering they endured after being sold.

As the male slave stood on stage, the audience's eyes showed little interest. Clearly, they weren't impressed.

Feeling the stares, the man squirmed uncomfortably, his heart filled with despair. Once the transaction was complete, his life would be entirely in someone else's hands.

"If no one wants him, I'll take him," said a man holding paddle number 87, raising it high. "300,000 Berries."

After calling out his bid, the noble looked around, curious to see if anyone would compete.

Disco's eyes flickered, his disdain for the bidder hidden behind a perfect smile.

He announced loudly, "Bidder 87 offers 300,000 Berries. Any higher bids?"

After a brief silence, a few others raised their paddles, driving the price up.

Hearing the escalating bids, the initial bidder felt a mix of awe and frustration. When the price reached 520,000 Berries, he gave up.

For the first item, most chose to wait, knowing that the quality of the goods would improve as the auction progressed.

Those with fewer Berries seized the opportunity to bid early, hoping to secure a decent slave at a lower price.

After all, attending such a grand auction was also a chance to network with higher-status individuals.

"..."

After 30 minutes, 14 slaves had been sold, and the next items were the highlights.

"Get ready to bring out item 16. As soon as item 15 is sold, bring it up immediately."

"Kid, get up! It's your turn. Make sure you fetch a good price!" A guard grabbed Doflamingo by his clothes and threw him out of the cell.

"And you, move it! If you don't get up, I'll beat you to death."

Dragon suppressed his murderous rage and stood up, walking toward the auction stage.

...