Bastian watched Elizabeth sit down, looking around checking until nobody else was nearby.

[color=0072bc]"They say only two types of people survive in this world. The savage and the subservient...You either dominate all below you with an iron fist or you eat out of the palm of your owner's hand. Those that do neither, will die quickly. That ruthless belief permeates throughout these lands..."[/color] He sounded bitter. Clearly talking to her, despite looking in a different direction, having a slight scowl on his face. Pausing and clearing his throat, waiting for another noble walking by and leaving in his carriage. Afterwards, looking her square in the eyes.

[color=0072bc]"I observed everyone on that stage and I saw nothing but emptiness in every prisoner's eye. A chain of cold, defeated souls, hollow shells of their former selves. They couldn't help themselves, let alone be useful to me. But you were different, whether you believe it or not. I saw the spark of desire in your eye. I couldn't let anyone acquire you..."[/color] He said candidly. Stopping to nervously scratch the back of his head. [color=0072bc][i]"That might have sounded creepier than I anticipated."[/i][/color]

[color=0072bc]"I knew I didn't have the wealth nobility threw around and decided to charge upon the stage and hope my father's old necklace would spook them into conceding with my bid. So, forgive my erratic behavior and my exploitation. I want you to fully understand, that under most circumstances I find the act of slavery abhorrent,"[/color] His tone changed into anguish, clenching his paws while looking down, [color=0072bc]"but I've become a desperate man. My son and daughter...they were kidnapped and I haven't seen or heard from them since. I need someone that can go through places I can't access, someone to help me get them back...I'll give you my word, once I track down the ones who kidnapped my children, retrieve them both and bring them safety back home. I will grant you freedom."[/color]