Ethan and Congressman Thompson entered the Silver Tier gallery. This room was smaller, more hushed, and the air was thicker with anticipation.
The second part of the auction began. Unlike the general theater, a small, heavily armed security team stood around the perimeter, and a dazzling woman, scantily clad in a revealing short dress, entered the center podium, her attire leaving little to the imagination.
"Gentlemen, welcome to the collection of true rarity," the auctioneer announced, his voice smooth and theatrical.
The first item was presented: a young, robust Black man of about eighteen. He was introduced as a "fallen prince" from an African province, a narrative designed to heighten his perceived worth. He looked strong, his jaw clenched, his gaze fixed on the floor, the picture of humiliation.
