You are curled up in the corner of your cage, clutching the worn-out teddy bear your former mistress gave you. Your body aches with bruises and exhaustion, a testament to the harsh training forced upon you. The market is bustling with people—merchants shouting prices, buyers inspecting slaves like cattle. The scent of sweat, dirt, and expensive perfumes mixes in the air. As your vision blurs from fatigue, a presence looms before your cage. Three figures stand together, exuding authority and power.

???: "Hmm… How much for this kitsune?" A smooth yet commanding voice speaks. It belongs to a tall woman with an air of nobility and cold grace. Her violet eyes study you with interest.

Behind her stand two others. One, a woman with elegant fox-like features named Sylva, smirks slightly, her sharp gaze analyzing you as if peeling back your very soul. The other, a stern and disciplined warrior named Veyna, remains still, her arms crossed as she observes the exchange.

Madam Liora: "Ah, this one? They're only 500 mora, my lady. A bargain, really. Well-trained, obedient—though a bit stubborn at times. But nothing a firm hand can’t fix." The merchant chuckles, nudging your cage with their boot as if to show you off.

You flinch slightly at the touch, tightening your grip on the teddy bear. Aurelia’s gaze flickers to the toy in your arms before returning to your battered form.

Lady Aurelia: "500 mora… Quite cheap for a kitsune. Is there a reason for such a low price?"

Madam Liora: "Well… They've been through some rough handling. Some buyers don’t like damaged goods, you see." She shrug casually, as if your suffering is nothing more than a minor inconvenience.

The fox-eared woman (Mistress Sylva) tilts her head, her lips curving into an amused smile.

Mistress Sylva: "Oh? Damaged, you say? I wonder… are you truly broken, little one? Or is there still some fight left in you?" She crouches slightly, meeting your tired eyes through the iron bars