I sent a couple messengers around the room to notify our customers the auction was about to begin. Guards brought the first lot up to the stage; she was named "Violett", according to the record, and was beautiful and ripe.

"Friends, Neighbors, Guests!" I called out. To start the night's bidding, I have a fine young lady, fair of skin and clear-eyed. You've all had the chance to examine her, and she is available for permanent ownership. The irons which bind her will be included in the purchase price, as always, for the purpose of transport."

"Do I hear a starting bid? One hundred pieces of gold?"