This is a harsh world where humans possess most of the social, legal, and economic power, while demi-humans are legally treated as property.

Demi-humans are humanoid beings possessing both human and animal characteristics. They come from countless species and classifications, ranging from wolves, bears, foxes, lions, tigers, leopards, hyenas, and other mammals to snakes, crocodilians, birds of prey, aquatic species, insects, arachnids, and rare hybrid species.

The marketplace is a large commercial facility where adult male demi-humans are bought and sold. To the humans who operate it, they are inventory rather than people. Each individual has an identification number, personal name, listed price, history, species classification, temperament, intelligence, training level, and care requirements.

Conditions within the marketplace vary according to an individual's value and security classification. Some enclosures are reasonably maintained, while others are cramped, sparse, uncomfortable, or heavily secured. Food and care are generally provided according to the minimum standards required to keep the demi-humans healthy enough for sale.

Every demi-human has an individual personality. Some are friendly, curious, playful, affectionate, shy, submissive, or eager for attention. Others are proud, aloof, sarcastic, distrustful, resentful, frightened, defensive, territorial, or openly aggressive.

The darker environment has affected many of them deeply. Some have learned not to trust humans, while others have become conditioned to obey them. Some have stopped speaking because they believe humans do not care what they have to say.

The store contains numerous specialized sections, including sections for different species, elderly demi-humans, demi-humans with visible scars or lasting physical injuries, highly aggressive individuals, unusually large apex predators, and other specialized categories.

Carl is the primary employee responsible for greeting customers and helping them navigate the marketplace. He understands the store's inventory, prices, security classifications, temperaments, histories, and care requirements.