Chapter 2: Chapter 2

The man who stepped forward with a small purse of silver coins was six-foot and broad shouldered. His hair was jet black and glistened in the sunlight. His smile was confident as he navigated his way through the throng of men still discussing the fair-skinned boy from the west. As the winning bidder handed the auctioneer the leather purse, Derek watched the man’s bicep swell beneath his olive skin. He noticed the muscular, moderately haired forearm and the large gold bracelet he wore that accentuated his bronzed skin.

“Come with me,” said the man, gesturing with a sweep of his hand for Derek to step down from the podium.

The auctioneer cut the rope binding Derek’s ankle and he stepped onto the powdery dirt of the market place.

“My name is Gaius. I will be a fair master if you’re obedient. I’m having a small gathering tonight. Very informal. And the perfect opportunity for you to prove your worth.”