Chapter 24: The Blood-Marked Coin
Not long after, Edward and Silas were ushered into a private upper room with a large window overlooking the auction floor. At that moment, Tula joined them, having been unable to locate the vault where the money was kept. However, he didn't seem discouraged.
"No matter," Tula said. "How much money do we have now?" "Thirty gold pieces," Silas replied. "That is enough. Give them to me," Tula said coldly.
Silas handed over the pouch. Tula took a single coin, made a small notch in it with his blade, and let a drop of his own blood fall onto it. Edward and Silas watched the scene in confusion, but neither dared to ask what he was doing.
Meanwhile, the auction began below. First, beautiful maidens were presented, followed by many women and children. Finally, Edward's group of slaves was put on display. The bidding for them skyrocketed until the price for a single man reached 60 gold pieces. Once the auction concluded, the announcer declared the standing policy: the money must be handed over first before the "goods" could be released.