It was a walk of shame, again. Ina was on a leash held by Gabriel. He allowed her to look for the herbs and Ina found the rare blue flowers. They normally bloom only in the wet season, here however, they were blooming all year round as Gabriel explained to her. She found it in a park, a place with many green trees and grass with wild herbs and flowers growing everywhere. The way back they walked in complete silence. People on the street were looking at them and Ina forced herself not to pay any attention to them, till she heard horses. Gabriel pulled her to the side making room for the riders. Ina recognized the front one, it was the Commander. With loose hair, black uniform and silver shiny buttons he looked very impressive to Ina.  He slowed down and stopped in front of Gabriel holding Ina on a leash.

“Commander.” Gabriel slightly bowed showing a tiny bit of respect. 

“Still in training I see.” He said looking at Ina who was holding blue flowers in her hands and kept her eyes on the ground.

“Some things take time sir.” Gabriel informed the Commander.

“When is she going to be put to an auction?” 

“Don’t know sir, it’s up to Mr Prescot.”

“I see. I will contact him about that Omega slave.” 

Ina raised her head and looked at the Commander. He was looking straight at her, Ina’s eyes shone with pure gold in this light. There was a moment of silence and the Commander finally moved forward saying goodby to Gabriel.

“Well well my little beauty, I will lose you soon to that Commander. He is a member of one of the five richest families in the city. Although he is the second son, there won’t be many people who will be able to bid a higher price.” He pulled Ina closer. “It’s a pity I’d like to train you more.” He touched her cheek. Ina felt uncomfortable and she looked Gabriel in the eyes.

“Sir, what does an auction look like?”

“It depends, older, used slaves are sold at a street market, not any different from selling a cattle. More expensive species, young, rare, take part in luxury auctions that are well, like a show for entertainment. They will strip you and present to potential buyers.” Gabriel smiled again. Ina lowered her head. She knew the auction will be a shameful act. She will be judged and looked at and they probably will make comments.

Ther returned to the slave’s house and Ina was allowed to make a tea for the still unconscious Misa. It worked, the fever went down.

After two days the Beta regained her consciousness, the worst part was over, however the healing process would last longer. The wounds weren’t bleeding anymore but it hurt with every move the Beta was making.

“I’m sorry.” Was the first thing Ina said as soon as Misa opened her eyes. Misa looked at her and then managed to turn her head away. Ina was hated and she understood it well.  

“I will listen to you, and obey the orders. I’m sorry Misa.” She whispered and then left the room. Ina didn’t want to make her feel uncomfortable. 

Misa was able to get up after two more days. The other girls were taking turns and helped her with some food and water. Misa survived, however she looked broken. She didn’t talk much with Ina except for the moments she was explaining the rules. She did it sitting straight, not even looking at Ina if it wasn't absolutely necessary. Today Ina was trained to behave well during dinner parties. She had to kneel next to her master.

“Remember to keep your eyes low, don’t stare at the food and don’t beg for it. If the master decides to give you something, which is very rare, raise your hands and wait till the food will be placed there. Don’t lick fingers. When the master ends eating and decides to stand up, always wait for a command or you will be pulled by your leash. Do not stand up on your own. In public you always follow master’s commands even if you know what your master is going to expect from you, always wait for the signal. Then there was practical training. For one hour. Ina was trained like an obedient pet. Ina hated it from the bottom of her heart. 

In the afternoon Gabriel came carrying a bundle of colorful clothes.

“It’s for you, my pretty one. “ He threw it at her. 

“Get dressed, we will be leaving in a moment. Make sure to put some makeup on to look even more pretty.” 

Ina had to get dressed under the watchful eye of Gabriel. Ella helped her to underline her eyes with black powder applied by a really thin brush. She also added some golden powder on her cheeks and lip balm to make her lips more red and glossy. Ina was given some oil to rub into her skin so it will look shiny and attractive. Her hair was an untamed  mane of wild curls reaching below her shoulders. Ina looked at her reflection in the mirror. She was wearing a tight top with deep cleavage and her back exposed with a long ethereal skirt. She looked like a bed slave. Gabriel stood up and put a tiny collar with a chain on her.

“Hmm, you look delicious.” He said rubbing her nape. 

“Sir, are you taking me to an auction?” Ina asked, feeling her heart beating fast.

“Not yet. Today you will be put to display to attract potential customers. Let’s go.”

Ina moved walking behind Gabriel who was holding a leash. The chain was very delicate, she could break it easily, however she didn’t. It was another proof of her obedience. The truth was that there was nowhere Ina could run away to. She didn’t want to risk someone else's life and health. He will wait. Learn the city and then maybe a chance will appear.