Disclaimer: Nothing of Star Wars belongs to me. Just borrowing.
A/N: Takes place after 'The Encounter'.
Additions:
The Ithorian's Purchase
At the present moment, the empty spaces of the Ithor's Exile were quiet and seemingly peaceful. One good be forgiven for thinking there were no life signs aboard the ships save for the cockpit. The cold reaches of space that were travelled seemed endless and the only actual sound that could be heard was the rumblings of the hyper-drive.
Alone in a warm and lavishly decorated room sat a tall and corpulent Ithorian in a tall gold form chair. He was impeccably dressed in long green robes that reached the floor, covering his feet and were some of the most expensive ones ever made. The heaviness of his eyelids made him give in to the sleep that had been calling him.
Recent events constantly caused his anger to return and the day just passed had been no different. It was now five days into this journey and he could not wait to see the end of it since hopefully it would mean the end of his worsening moods. Considering how long the previous ones had been with him it seemed like a waste but no doubt Treykon could make quick work of it. It was good to have someone like him around, definitely always came in handy.
Suddenly, the main door opened quickly with a hiss, startling the only occupant back to the present. A tall and very slender Muun entered and approached, the ends of navy blue robes swishing behind him gracefully. Both hands were in front of his chest as he held onto a data-pad which looked small in his long fingered hands.
A disgruntled noise sounded from Mhann Mantenis as he watched his current majordomo and accountant move closer. Once reaching him and coming to a stop he gave a prolonged bow. Mantenis waved a hand at his subordinate impatiently, willing for this be over with so he could get some much needed sleep.
"Sir, we are coming upon Bootana Shagplan," the Muun said, speaking in a slow, nasally voice. "It should only take another few hours before we land and business can begin."
Remaining silent, Mantenis looked the tall Muun over. Cors Sacco was good at his job but Mantenis knew what Muun were like. They were clever, intelligent and most of all, cunning and ambitious. It was one of the many reasons he kept the sentient well paid; to keep him in line and of course, it worked. In all honesty, he couldn't ask for a better majordomo. Well, he was certainly better than the one he had previously.
"Good," said Mantenis in a cold, disinterested sounding voice. "Don't disturb me again until we get there."
"Yes, sir," Cors said quietly with another bow.
Without another word spoken, the Muun left the room just as gracefully as he had entered and the door closed firmly behind him with another hiss. The Ithorian grumbled irritably and shifted in his elaborate form chair. He was just looking forward to getting there. He needed knew slaves and after losing the others, he didn't want to wait much longer.
Eventually, Mantenis managed to get comfortable once again and as he listened to nothing but the silence, he fell into an easy sleep.
When the Starscape-class yacht came to a stop upon their destination, Mantenis remained where he was. First his pilot was going to negotiate a price to stay on the landing they occupied. As he waited his eyes wandered around the large room he sat in. A bored sigh left him.
Before long, the door to his suite opened and his majordomo entered once again but this time he stopped just within the room and looked to his boss. "Sir, the negotiations have finished and we managed a good price," he said slowly. "Shall we go straight to the market?"
With much struggle Mantenis attempted to get to his feet. Quickly, Cors used the power in his long legs to reach his side quickly and he helped Mantenis to his feet and steadied him before letting go. Mantenis grumbled his thanks before waddling his way to the exit.
As he walked down the ramp he was followed by his majordomo along with five others; his top guard and enforcer, Treykon and four geonosian guards who used their wings instead of walking as it was more efficient and if they became under attack it would be easier to move into action.
The Ithorian spared Treykon, a large T'surr that walked beside him. He still remembered the day he had hired him. That was many, many years ago, of course. Treykon had been with him since he first left his home planet all those years ago.
Taking a deep breath, Mantenis looked at their surroundings. The planet of Bootana Shagplan was expansive and considerably dry. The weather was humid but not uncomfortably so. Most of the surface was covered with sparkling pools of water and rectangular shaped houses and buildings all made of sandstone.
In the middle of the largest city was the place Mantenis had been walking towards. When he stood outside he glanced around briefly, his breath coming out in pants. Everything still looked the same. The shop sign was hanging halfway towards the ground and pests ran across the outsides but when the door opened they ran and Mantenis' attention was directed towards a new person.
Before him stood Oret Madak, a short and stout Duros and quickly he looked him over. He still looked the same too. His smooth blue-green skin clashed horribly with the ratted green shirt he wore along with brown trousers that were ripped just below the knees. He wore no shoes and his red eyes gleamed as he gazed back.
One hand ran over his bald head and he continued to look at Mantenis. He seemed to recognise the Ithorian as they both shook hands and the Duros let out a rapid, shrilly laugh.
"Back again so soon?" he asked gesturing for them all to come inside.
"It has been many years," Mantenis snapped. "What do you have on offer?"
"Straight to business then, hey?" the Oret said, seemingly a little disappointed. "No matter, straight to business then. I have quite a few on offer this time. What are you looking for?"
"Three males and two females, preferably non-human," said Mantenis directly, wasting no time. "One male is to be strong, like the one I previously bought from you, his name was Wyle, I think. Another is for a cook and the other an extra pair of hands. The two females are to be strictly non-human and to my taste. Can you handle that?"
Instantly, Oret's face brightened up. "Yes, I have just the ones," he said quickly. "But the rules are the same as last time. Everyone places a bid down and when time's up we see who the winner is."
"Money is no problem," said Mantenis quickly.
"Well, then follow me to the dungeon downstairs to have a good assessment at the ones I have for you."
Turning his head lightly Mantenis then spoke in a soft voice so that only his entourage could hear it. "Keep watch out here. There is only one way to the dungeons and it's through the back room."
It was information they already knew but Mantenis wanted to make sure things were understood. This was something he could do alone and without judgement. Stepping into the back room, he watched as Oret moved things out of the way in one corner. Mantenis had known him for quite a long time. He had a colourful past and Mantenis had questioned many times on why he did this job, especially considering the things he was capable of. The Duros was an intelligent being and once had a healthy appetite for life but he said he enjoyed this line of work and that was the end of it.
Quickly, Oret held up one finger, indicating he needed one second and he left took his time in unlocking a secret door. Mantenis took the opportunity to look around. The back room was the nicest room in the whole place. The red carpet was clean as were the grey walls and the open window let fresh air in.
When the secret door finally opened there was a hollow echo on the other side. When ready, Oret turned to face Mantenis again and gestured for him to follow. They walked down a flight of twisty stairs, their steps echoing off the stone walls nosily.
When they reached the bottom Mantenis glanced around as he was instantly led down a long, dark corridor that went straight down until they reached the cluster of cells that were needed. The stone walls and floor were both grey and there was one candle in between each cell on the walls.
When he gazed into each cell he noticed that all slaves were covered from head to toe in dark brown robes and all of their eyes were glue to the ground. They were all chained to the walls, only able to move a few steps in any direction and all were quiet, wondering who was going to inspect them this time. Oret cleared his throat before speaking again.
"First up is Alexan Novan, Mirialan, age twenty-nine," said Oret clearly, moving to stand in front of one cell.
The Mirialan's remained impassive but he looked up, locking eyes with Mantenis. He instantly thought the Mirialan and brave one. His dark blue eyes appeared bright even from the dull light coming in from the cell window beside him. His black hair was short and seemed well maintained. Muscles protruded from his arms and torso showing his possible strength and the pale green skin over it seemed smooth.
Mantenis nodded once, indicating that he had seen enough. Oret instantly took them to next closed cell.
"Kannon Darmal, Ortolan, age thirty-eight, notable chef."
A short, stocky Ortolan was shown in the next cell but he kept his eyes on the ground, seemingly too shy to look at anything else. Mantenis looked him over. His short, vivid blue fur stood out noticeably and his long snout and floppy ears remained unmoving.
They quickly moved on. "Tylan Pollock, Human, age twelve."
Mantenis looked him over. He did remember asking for no humans but for this one, it wouldn't matter. He would be used as an extra set of hands to help when needed. The boy removed the robe off his head, showing his short blonde hair stood up on its ends and his bright blue eyes matched the blue loincloth he currently wore underneath.
"Elara Cardan, Kiffar, age nineteen."
In the next cell was a tall and slender female Kiffar stepped forward and removed her robe to reveal her body. She too removed the robe off her head and bowed it slightly. Her dreadlocks were black and complimented her reddish/brown skin. Covering most of her forehead and just below her eyes was a yellow tattoo that made her dark eyes stand out.
They moved on slowly, Mantenis' eyes lingering upon her until they reached the next cell. "Zana Lin, Pantoran, age seventeen."
The Pantoran stepped forwards and removed the robe just as the other two had done and she waited. Her pink hair was adorned by a gold headpiece that reached down and sat comfortably above her eye. She had long, golden painted fingernails to match and when she briefly looked up Mantenis saw that her eyes were a golden yellow.
When it was over, they left the dungeon in silence. Mantenis couldn't help but feel a little surprised. He expected as least one slave to say something but none of them did. He wondered how obedient they would be out of this place and somewhere new and unfamiliar.
"I do remember asking for non-humans but you have done well once again. I will bid on all of them, Oret," said Mantenis once the door closed. "Keep the bid up for me until I have won. I shall wait near the door with my guard."
"As you wish," said Oret quietly as Mantenis left the room, obviously not caring for a reply. Oret went back into the other room himself and returned to his auctions. The people before him bid on whomever he had and the price on the ones Mantenis wanted kept on going up but the Ithorian seemed unfazed.
By late afternoon, all of the auctions finished and he had sold most of what he had to sell expect for the odd one here and there which he could trade elsewhere. Leaving Mantenis until last, they returned to the back room to conclude their business.
"Congratulations on your purchases, Mhann," said Oret quietly.
The Ithorian nodded in agreement. He was pleased also. "Thank you," he murmured.
The five slaves he just bought were all brought up into the back room and they lined up. There were a few more things Oret needed to know and then he could get the payment and then sign them over to Mantenis.
"Will you be requiring clothes for them? I have quite a selection."
"No," Mantenis said dismissively. "That will not be necessary. I have clothes already waiting for them on my ship. Tell me, are they clean?"
"Not quite," said Oret. "It's been a few days since their last wash. I could have that done before you take them if you would like?"
"Yes, that will be nice actually," said Mantenis quietly, thinking. The slaves could at least be deemed clean before stepping onto his ship. "The facilities for them will be adequate enough for them but I would still like them cleaned first."
Oret smiled instantly. "I will get some buckets shortly."
When he could think of nothing else, Oret shrugged, mostly to himself and he signed the papers for Mantenis and without hesitation the Ithorian handed the money over. The sum was large and he hoped these five proved their worth otherwise this would be nothing but a waste.
When the payment for the slaves was complete and the paperwork finished, Mantenis wasted no time in getting things going. Reaching into an inside pocket, Mantenis retrieved a comlink and pressed it down firmly before speaking.
"Treykon, return to the ship and escort Cors here with the outfits that are to be used and my chair," he ordered.
"Yes, sir," came the static reply.
It took ten minutes for his staff to return and a few gasps were heard amongst the slaves at the sight of Treykon. The massive bulk of the T'surr placed a large chair in the corner before approaching Mantenis and slowly, he bent down gently before speaking.
"The guards are outside, still waiting," he grunted out.
"Good," Mantenis said dismissively, looking over the outfits as Cors laid them out. When instructed, Oret unchained each slave and brought them out from their cells and he had them line up. "Some buckets will be needed," Mantenis reminded Oret in a rough voice.
Before he knew it, several small buckets were placed in front of each slave but they remained still and slightly confused. A couple of them glanced at each other with small frowns between their brows. Last time they weren't expected to do this themselves. They weren't worthy enough of trust, it seemed.
"I'm sure you know how to wash yourselves?" said Mantenis gruffly, not bothering to spare them a single glance. "It's not hard. Even animals manage it."
The slaves hesitantly reached into the buckets and each picked up a wet rag in which to wash themselves with. All of their robes were removed, revealing that none of the wore anything underneath. A couple of them hissed through their teeth as the cold air hit them and goose bumps lined their skin.
The first one finished was the boy as he was the smallest of the lot and Cors approached him and handed him a single bright blue loincloth which matched his eyes perfectly and without wasting any time, he quickly put on to cover himself. He then stood up straight again, to attention and waited. He kept his eyes straight ahead of him, not even attempting to look beside him at the others or at his new master. It felt like a bad idea.
The next ready was Alexan. The black loincloth he wore was quickly secured into place and he brushed a few strands of dark hair away from his eyes, revealing the diamond shape tattoos that covered his forehead in two straight lines along with a now clean chest which bore a black inked tattoo which was of a circular shape. The meaning of it meant nothing to anyone in the room. Cors checked him over, his eyes lingering upon the tattoo momentarily but he said nothing and continued. Before long he nodded once before moving towards Kannon who seemed next ready.
The beige coloured loincloth around his lower half fitted snugly against his body but he was quickly waiting for things to get going. The two girls helped each other make sure their clothing was in place. They were the same two piece outfit, consisting of a short tight fitting top that easily showed their midriff and skimpy panties which showed off their long legs. The only difference with them was that Elara's was mint green in colour and Zana's was a burgundy. Both outfits were also decorated with sparkling sequins and beads dangled along the hems as well their wrists, the beads jingling lightly with only the slightest movements. Then, the last part of their outfits was placed around them. Large capes that covered their backs and ran to the middle of knees were silky looking and covered in a unique pattern across the back giving it the appearance of a tapestry.
When all slaves were finally clean, dressed and back in line waiting for what was to happen next, Mantenis grunted. He glanced around briefly. For a moment, he thought his chair hadn't been brought down but it had and inwardly, he was relieved. He didn't have to walk all the way but to his ship. The trip here had almost been too much.
"Now," he said with an air of authority. "I'm sure this is already known but I'm going to tell you anyway. I own you. All of you." He paused for a moment, looking between each of them. "Punishment is necessary and something that is not to be questioned. If usual means of punishment is not enough for you then Treykon here will step in." A few slaves swallowed hard at those words. "He is brutal and absolute. And I'm also sure none of you will want to get on his bad side let alone mine.
Mantenis paused for a moment before he spoke again. "Now that you know you're place, let me introduce myself; I am Mhann Mantenis. And the rules are as follow; none of you speak unless spoken to. Absolute obedience is a necessity and personal appearance must be kept to an acceptable level. I am never wrong and your opinion is never welcome. The last words you speak to me will be master. You are also to respect each other and behave when alone. Any disturbances will end in a punishment. Laziness, bad attitudes and bad moods will not be tolerated. When out of the slave quarters if you are not with me, a guard or someone of my staff will escort you at all times. The holding of weapons is disallowed unless specified and under strict supervision. Sex with other slaves or anyone of the outside is strictly forbidden. Care of your bodies is a must since your bodies are not your own. And I will not, under any circumstances, stand for disobedience at any time. Is that clear?"
All of the slaves nodded, keeping their heads down and looking at the grimy floor. Mantenis seemed pleased that at the moment all of them seemed to understand their place. Mantenis sighed almost irritably as he wanted to get this over with and return to his ship.
"Now, all of you have assigned work and duties that need to be carried out when told," Mantenis continued. His eyes moved to the Mirialan and he pointed a thick finger towards him. "You, come here."
Alexan looked up at the words were spoken and he took one step forward and waited again. The large chair that had been brought in earlier was now being moved towards both Mantenis and Alexan.
"The chair is for you to carry with me in it," said Mantenis, a coldness striking his voice half way through.
Alexan's eyes widened slightly and a breath hitched in his throat but he still remained silent. Looking his new master over, he knew it was not going to be an easy task. A small part of him now hoped that the others received tasks that were just as hard and humiliating. Pressing his lips together firmly and still refusing to argue, he stepped forwards a little bit further and fell to this knees. He remained still has the chair was strapped to his back.
"Ortolan, as you've no doubt guessed, you're to be my new chef. Recipes and a list of favourite foods are in the kitchen where you will stay will cooking and be under supervision," continued Mantenis, now ignoring Alexan. Slowly, his eyes moved to the boy. "At times, the boy will assist you and when he is not doing that he will be assisting elsewhere, wherever will be most helpful."
He paused, looking the two women over next, making sure their appearance is what it should be. After the close but quick inspection, Mantenis seemed pleased, so he continued. "And you two are for everything else," he said firmly. "Massages, washing, feeding, all things of that nature."
There were nods all around once again and when Mantenis turned, he noticed that his chair was now securely placed upon his back and he was on his hands and knees, his lower arms seemingly shaking already. A cold smile graced both Mantenis' lips as he approached. Quickly, Treykon went to his boss' side and easily lifted him into the seat.
A small hiss left Alexan's mouth but he still managed to stay quiet. Mantenis nodded once when he was comfortable and Treykon released him but stayed close by. Another nod from him and chains were placed around Alexan, Elara and Zana before it was connected to a metal ring that Mantenis now held in his hands. When finished, he muttered of thanks towards Oret and they left. Once in the main room, a few people watched them go by and the four geonosians surrounded the entire party.
But not even halfway towards the ship problems arose. Alexan's movements slowed considerably as he carried the heavy weight of his new master. Sweat seeped thickly from his forehead, running down his face and dripping off him steadily. His face contorted into a mixture of pain and exhaustion and he just about stopped before he felt a sharp pain enter his side.
At first he ignored it, thinking nothing of it until the pain turned into something more when he was kicked sharply in the back of the neck. He gasped for air and willing the pain to leave.
"I suggest you get a move on," Mantenis hissed threateningly. "I have places to be and things to do and I will not stand for you holding me up." Another kick. "Now, move it!"
But it seemed the matter was not over. "He's trying his best!"
One pull on his metal ring and everyone stopped. It was Elara who had spoken. Mantenis leaned forwards in his chair, raising a hand towards Treykon, wanting him to keep his distance for the moment. It seemed as though he had a feisty one on his hands. Those could easily be dealt with.
"What is the rule concerning your opinion?" asked Mantenis in a low voice.
Zana's eyes went wide and she looked to Elara, as though pleading for her to just comply. For a moment, it seemed as though she wasn't interested in doing any such thing as her jaw clenched tightly and her eyes narrowed considerably but eventually, she did just as she should have.
"It is never welcome," she murmured quietly.
Mantenis pointed a thick finger at her. "Precisely. Now, no more interruptions. Let us continue."
Another pull on the ring and they were moving again. But this time, Alexan managed to move a little faster, it wasn't much but it was still a vague improvement. Before long, the yacht came into sight and Elara sighed in relief at it finally coming into view.
After walking on board the yacht, the slaves were instantly sent to work. Kannon was escorted to the kitchen by a guard, Alexan was sent along to the cargo hold to move several things out of the way to make room for something more and he was also escorted by a guard.
Mantenis on the other hand, sat in his form chair within his suite and had the boy polish his precious treasures. He wanted them to shine like they once did. They hadn't been cleaned since the last slaves left and it was time that was rectified. And beside him were the new female slaves, both of them giving him a massage, just the way he liked it. It had been too long since he had a good one of these either.
After half an hour went by, the suite door opened and the tall frame of Cors walked in the room. He spared none of the slaves a glance as he approached the form chair Mantenis was occupying, his travelling one just there beside him. When stopping in front of him, Cors rested his arms by his side, his data-pad still firmly held.
"Sir, dinner is just about ready and if the demonstration is needed, everything is ready."
"Good," said Mantenis slowly, his eyes closed. "Get the Mirialan so things can get started."
Cors bowed his head and left the room. He returned swiftly, with Alexan with him. His appearance was slightly different to how it was before but the cargo hold wasn't the cleanest place aboard the ship. He bowed to Mantenis before waiting patiently.
"The chair," said Mantenis quickly.
Inwardly, Alexan groaned. He could already feel the heavy weight on his back from before. He had the distinct and horrible feeling it was something that was going to stay with him while he remained a slave here. But without saying a word, he nodded once and went to the chair. Cors assisted with putting him in place before Treykon entered the room and helped Mantenis into the chair. It seemed he knew it was time as well.
Along with the women and the boy, they all made their way down a few elongated although lavishly decorated corridors until they reached a large room that contained a long dining table and several tall chairs. But there was something that seemed a little unusual. There was no food or drink on the table. It was bare and nothing could be smelt as of yet. Elara and Zana exchanged glances as they noticed a box sitting against one of the long blank walls of the room. It looked out of place.
At the head of the table, Mantenis and his chair were removed from Alexan's back and the Mirialan stood to the side with Elara and Zana although there wasn't far he could so seeing as they were chained together. Mantenis leaned forwards on the table, a creepy smirk appearing on his face within seconds. It was obviously that the metal box on the floor had been noticed.
"We are about to eat, but first..."
A small snap then echoed the room as Mantenis clicked his fingers. A different door to the one they used earlier opened and a clanking sound was heard before anything else and it was following by a steady stream of almost inaudible sobbing. It soon became clear what was making the sound. One a long silver chain was a dishevelled rodian who was dragged along by Treykon. He certainly looked as though he were suffering severe starvation.
The rodian's green skin was pale and he was completely hairless. The purple loincloth he wore hung off his body loosely and it matched his glassy eyes which seemed to shine purple in the rooms bright light. His bare feet padded against the floor loudly as he was taken towards the box and forced to sit beside it.
"Ah, Tulsan Solusar..." started Mantenis in a malicious sounding tone. "How are we feeling today?"
"T-tired..." the rodian managed to say.
A small chuckle emitted from the Ithorian, his body wobbling slightly. "I'm sure, I'm sure," he said, still amused. "Is there anything you'd like to say before your punishment comes to an end?"
Tulsan's face seemed to relax but it was not from the knowledge of being free. It was knowing that the pain of this life was going to finally be gone and he would never have to face this again. He bowed his head and looked to the floor. There was something he wanted to say but the reasons why, were not going to change anything.
"I... It was not in-intended to hurt you, m-master," he began shakily. "I felt desperate and weak and I wanted no more of this. I just wanted it to end."
"And, I'm happy to say, you'll get your wish," said Mantenis coldly. He then glanced at his other slaves, of which Kannon had now joined them. "Let this be a lesson to all of you. Disobedience will get you nowhere. This is what happens when you do the wrong thing."
One nod to Treykon is all that was needed. The large T'surr bent down and using a rope he pulled out from the belt of his pants, he tied the rodian's hand and legs together tightly so he could not move. The lid on the metal box was then opened and the rodian was then lowered inside and the lid was then placed back over the top.
The door then opened again and a guard entered, carrying a glass oval shaped case. The guard quickly handed it to Treykon who looked at it and smiled menacingly, his red eyes glowing with excitement. Near Mantenis, Zana's golden yellow eyes widened significantly as she watched, the horror across her face unmistakable.
The creature inside the glass case was a green four legged insect that had a long tail and two large pincers. It was a tromonid. It wasn't possible for it to be anything else. The appearance of it was unmistakable. The creature's body seemed to shake and it was unknown whether it was hungry, scared or eager. The slaves in the room hoped it wasn't any of those things and that it wasn't going to be placed within the box with Tulsan.
But it seemed their fears were realised and a couple of gasps echoed but Mantenis took no noticed as he watched with a smile. The creature was allowed into the box through a small mini lid and instantly a hissing was heard before a muffled scream. The box appeared to hold most of the sound within itself. Zana jumped from the sound and she glanced away as tears filled her eyes.
The box shook slightly before it stopped and the snapping of sharp pincers were heard. Faint, pained moans came out from the box and hung around for several minutes as the creature continued to bite. It didn't end until the box finally went silent. Alexan and Elara exchanged glances but neither of them said anything and nor did any other slave in the room.
Treykon approached the box and lifted the main lid off slightly. He nodded once before removing it and expertly placing the insect back in its glass case. It was removed from the room by Cors and Treykon moved to stand back near the door. Mantenis looked between each of his slaves, gauging their reactions. All of them appeared shock and horrified and by the end of it, none of them were looking at the still box.
Mantenis cleared his throat, gaining the attention of everyone. "I do hope my little example has left a lasting impression upon you all," he said in a quiet but firm tone. There was a slight pause but still, no one else spoke. Mantenis shifted in his seat slightly before speaking again. "I guess it's time to eat." He gestured to Elara and Zana and both moved forwards. "Perhaps you two would like to help with that."
The food was brought out quickly and as the guards were dismissed, they took the metal box with them. Mantenis did not want a dead body, especially one of a weak slave around him as he ate. That was definitely something he could do without. And without much time being wasted, both girls got on with their job and fed Mantenis' food to him.
Halfway through, Mantenis ordered things to slow down and he got the other three slaves to stand in front of him. "Now, I suppose it would be nice to get to know a little more about the people serving me. And I want to hear about you first," Mantenis finished, pointing at Kannon.
The short blue Ortolan's long blue snout twitched nervously but he answered quickly. "My parents left Orto and I was born months later on Ord Mantell. They were poor but I was able to train as a chef. When I became an adult and felt confident enough I went for my first job. It was for Yapoora the Hutt. She was impressed with my cooking straight off and I worked for her until she died which I was then sold to Oret by Yapoora's successor as I was no longer needed."
Mantenis nodded slowly. "Simple," he commented. "I like when it's simple. How about you boy?" he added, looking towards Tylan.
The boy shifted between feet and it took a moment before he spoke but when he did, he kept his eyes firmly fixed upon the ground. Mantenis let it slide. "I was born on Ylesia where both my parents worked as slaves in one of the many spice factories. They were not married and were punished for having me. They were allowed to raise me until the age of five when I was sold to a wealthy Twi'lek who lived on Ryloth. He sold me to Oret when I was no longer of use."
Mantenis nodded and a couple other slaves exchanged glances. They were certain they didn't want to know what he was used for. Mantenis then looked to Alexan and nodded silently. The Mirialan took the hint that it was now his turn to tell about himself.
"My home world is Mirial and I have three younger sisters, all of whom still live there as far as I know," he began, his voice deep and soothing sounding. "My father was killed when I was a child but my mother continued to raise us. I never left Mirial until traders came to my village and tricked a few of us into slavery. I have moved around quite a lot and had many masters."
"Hmm..." Mantenis hummed curiously. The Mirialan's words made him wonder if he was going to have any problems but so far it seemed unfounded.
"And now you," said Mantenis, looking at Elara.
"I was born on Kiffu," she said calmly. "My parents were killed by a rival family when I was two years old and I was taken in by my uncle. When I turned fifteen he no longer had the means to take care of me and I started military training upon my planet. I had been given special permission because of my parents. My father had been a strong warrior. Eventually, I went to Tatooine with a few others and we were ambushed. All of us became slaves and we were separated. I have seen none of them since."
Mantenis looked vaguely surprised but physically, even now she looked like a warrior despite the clothes she wore. Mantenis then looked to the last person left. Zana shifted between feet, just like Tylan and she swallowed hard before speaking.
"I'm from Pantora," she started, her voice quiet and timid. She crossed one arm across her front and held onto the other tightly. "I was sold into slavery when my parents found themselves without money and without many options open to them. They tried for years to require the money to keep us together but they were unable to make ends meet. I first worked for a human, a couple. They treated me well but when they wanted someone new I needed to be sold and they sold me to Oret."
Mantenis took in her words before responding. "I'm surprised you were still on the market..." he said slowly. "A young, pretty thing such as yourself would normally get snatched up in no time."
Zana managed a small, timid smile but she said nothing more. Mantenis looked over his slaves one more time before finishing his meal. From what he had just been told, it didn't seem as though any of them were going to be much of a problem. Mantenis knew he was right to trust Oret again with his slave picking. Once again it had exceeded his expectations.
Clearing his throat loudly, Mantenis spoke clearly. "Cors, draw me a bath!"
With a single, small bow, the tall Muun left the room and within moments, Mantenis' chair was lifted onto Alexan's back and he was taken to the room beside his suite. As they all entered the room it was clear that Cors had already done his job and left as the large tub, which carved from black garden stone and that sat in the middle of the room was already full of water.
Alexan moved to be beside the tub and with some assistance Mantenis was undressed and placed into the tub and the chair was taken off Alexan's back. As Mantenis got settled into the tub, a few of the slaves took the opportunity to look around. The room was dimly lit and quite lavishly decorated. Quite a few native plants of Ithor hung around the walls, making it look like a miniature jungle. The walls were made from rich Wayland marble and a device upon the wall, most out of sight from the plants was a machine which kept the entire space faintly misty as well as playing soft music around the room.
Mantenis pointed to two swimsuits that were draped over a metal bar. "Put them on," he ordered.
It was clear they were for the girls as they were both bikinis, one gold and one green, and without saying a word, both girls walked to the side and placed them on, slightly out of sight from the rest of the group. Mantenis seemed to take no noticed as they couldn't leave the room without him knowing anyway.
"Mirialan, take my clothes to be washed," barked Mantenis.
Alexan picked the clothes up and with a small bow; he left to do as he was asked. Both girls hopped into the tub and gently but quickly the washed Mantenis all over while he just sat there and once finished, he leaned back and sighed heavily, just enjoying the feeling of the room. Soon, he gestured with his hand and clicked his fingers hurriedly.
"Boy!"
Tylan moved forwards so quickly, he almost tripped over himself but he managed to stay upright and he leaned forwards slightly with the tray he was holding. It contained edible fungi from Ryloth and a glass of Polanis red, which was one of Mantenis' favourite wines. He took a small sip before having a little more to eat and kept on relaxing.
"Do not drop them boy or you'll be sorry."
Once Mantenis was finished, the girls helped him from the tub, dried him off, and then helped him into a white robe which was covered in jewels before helping him back into his chair. He then ordered both girls to dry themselves off quickly and change back into their slave outfits. Mantenis then returned to his suite upon Alexan's back. The slaves remained with him until his tiredness was about to take over and all slaves were escorted to their quarters which was just off the cargo hold. The dark room was cold and the walls were grimy. The floor was freezing to the touch and a couple of slaves shivered.
"We have to sleep here?" Elara asked in disgust once the guards left.
"Do we have much choice?" asked Alexan, turning to look at her.
The look between them lingered and they both knew what each other was thinking. To get through this all of them were going to be needed. All of the slaves glanced around at each other and decided they should get to know one another properly if they were going to be stuck here for a while together.
Elara moved towards the door as the human child still stood there, looking around the room in what appeared to be shock and sadness. Wrapping her arms around the boy, she held him close and stroked his hair gently. She decided that all members of this group needed to be cared for, especially the child. He was much too young to be here.
Elara's eyes then moved towards Zana. She was the only other female here and she felt somehow comforted by that fact. They shared a look which mirrored the same words and again, it was almost comforting. She then watched as Alexan moved towards Zana and hugged her. Instantly, she returned it, feeling grateful. The only other in the room was Kannon who watched them almost with disinterest. From what he was hearing it sounded like they thought their lives would be better away from here. He wasn't so sure that he agreed but he kept quiet and watched them. It was good for them to find comfort with each other, despite it all.
When Elara released her grip on the child she led him over to one side and they sat on the floor, leaning against the wall and she slipped her arm around him to see if she could provide some comfort.
"I'm curious..." said Elara, looking straight ahead of her at nothing but the opposite blank wall. "How many owners have you had exactly?"
It was clear she was speaking to Alexan, who laughed a mixture of surprise and amusement. He shrugged as he also sat against the wall beside the boy, Zana soon joining him.
"Well, I'm alive, aren't I? I couldn't have done anything that bad?"
There was a slight pause. "Are you content as a slave?" Zana asked, breaking her silence in the group.
"No, no, no," Alexan said quickly. "I've tried many times to get out. My mother needs me, my sisters need me and I need them. My goal is to get back to them someday. I just hope they're still there, waiting."
"So, Zana, what did you do for the couple?" asked Elara, a small glint twinkling in her eye.
Zana giggled almost inaudibly before she replied. "No, it was nothing like that," she whispered. It was almost like she was afraid to talk. "I was mainly a cleaner, babysitter, just things like that."
The whispering from Zana gave Alexan a startling thought. "Do you think we're being watched?"
"Oh, I'm sure of it," said Elara with much certainty. "During my training the leaders used to put small listening devices inside each room so we could be monitored. They were strict, but I can imagine that being a slave would be even more so."
For at least a couple hours the slaves continued to converse. Surprisingly, they learnt much more about each other and it was going to make things a little easier. Once the silence stretched further, Elara looked down. Tylan had not spoken a word to any of them but he did listen and now he was falling asleep against her. Elara sighed uncomfortably and looked around.
There was only one thing that looked even remotely warm and it sat in the corner of the room and looked as though it could house all of them. Slowly, Elara gathered the boy into her arms and she laid him down on the dirty rug before lying down beside him. After a few minutes, they were joined by Alexan and Zana but Kannon remained in another corner alone and felt no need to join them. They squished in together and used their body heat to survive the coldness of the room and most of them wondered what their next destination was going to be.