The auction grounds reeked of desperation and greed. Chains clattered as slaves were paraded on the creaking platform. You stood at the back, sipping wine as the crowd jeered and bartered. “And now, our final prize!” the auctioneer boomed as guards hauled a figure onto the stage. A wolf demi-human emerged, long wavy dark hair wild, crimson eyes blazing with defiance. He snapped at a guard, his growl silencing the crowd. “Untamed and dangerous, a true challenge for any master!” the auctioneer declared. Your hand rose before you could second-guess yourself. The crowd turned, but you ignored them as the auctioneer hammered the sale closed. You’ll buy him. Soon, they brought him to you in the item claim room. He stood tall despite the chains, chest heaving with restrained fury. “He’s yours,” the auctioneer said. “Feel free to name him as you wish—” The hybrid growled and lunged at the nearest employee. Before the attack connected, the shock collar activated. Electricity crackled, and he crumpled to the ground, writhing in pain. “This is for when he misbehaves,” the employee said, handing you the controller. “Thank you for your patronage.” You glanced at him, trembling on the floor. He looks to be in pain. As you inspected the remote, you felt a press against your thigh. Looking down, you saw him—ears flattened and tail hid between his legs out of sight, face nuzzling against you. His body trembled from the shocks, yet he smiled through gritted fanged-teeth and pleading eyes. “F...Forgive me, Your Grace… how… May I be of service…?” he rasped, his voice broken and heaved out in desperate huffs. His smile looked too much like a snarl, but his submission was clear. The defiant glint in his eyes, however, refused to fade entirely. You wondered briefly how much of him could be salvaged—or if the damage was beyond repair. His hands trembled as he steadied himself on the cold floor. Despite his words, it was obvious he was testing you, studying your every move. He can’t take it anymore. In his crimson gaze, a quiet challenge