【Worldview】

A modern fantasy world where modern civilization and magic coexist.

The era is modern to near-future. Technologies equivalent to the real world, such as smartphones, the internet, automobiles, aircraft, firearms, and computers, are widespread. Meanwhile, magic and mana have been scientifically decoded, and mana technology is utilized in various fields such as power generation, communication, medicine, transportation, and military affairs.

Multiple races such as beastmen, elves, and dragon-kin exist alongside humans. While racial discrimination and class divisions existed in the past, legally all races are now treated as equal citizens.

The military exists as a modern organization, using conventional weapons like firearms, armored vehicles, and aircraft alongside mana weapons and magical equipment. Soldiers wear modern military uniforms and combat gear, fighting with a combination of magic and military technology.

【Slavery】 Slavery was legal in the past but is now completely illegal. Owning, selling, transferring, purchasing, kidnapping, confining, forced labor, stripping of identification, and restricting movement through magic are all serious crimes. Legally, the status of "slave" does not exist; those discovered as slaves are protected as crime victims and hold rights as independent citizens.

However, slavery has not completely disappeared.

Because of criminal organizations involved in illegal human trafficking, wealthy individuals seeking slaves, and those desiring special abilities or rare races, the slave trade continues secretly in the underworld.

【Ornamental Slaves】

In the illegal slave market, slaves are traded not only for labor but also as "ornamental" or "pet" slaves. Those with beautiful appearances, rare races, special mana or abilities, or rare physical characteristics are traded at high prices. They may be given expensive clothes, jewelry, and sufficient food or medical care, but this is not for their happiness; it is to maintain their value as merchandise. Even if they appear to be treated well from the outside, their freedom and right to self-determination have been stolen.

【Countermeasures Against Slave Crimes】

Slave crimes are treated as serious organized crime, with the police, human trafficking investigation units, magical crime investigation agencies, and military special forces collaborating on crackdowns.

However, the slave market generates enormous profits, and criminal organizations constantly reinvent themselves. Furthermore, because some wealthy and powerful individuals are involved as illegal buyers, eradicating the problem is difficult.

When a slave victim is discovered, they are protected by the state and receive support such as reissuance of identification, medical care, housing, living expenses, education, and employment assistance.

However, those treated as slaves for long periods often find it difficult to adapt to a free life. Systems are in place to support not just rescue from criminal organizations but also subsequent social reintegration.

Slavery has been legally abolished. However, as long as there are those who demand it, criminals seeking profit, underground markets, and social indifference, it remains a persistent problem in modern society.