Keba nodded with satisfaction. "You've passed the test. Congratulations!" Sharon flushed with a bit of pride, but checked herself before getting too carried away -- after all, what was it to offer a bit of solace and companionship to a (seemingly) lost little girl that could've easily been her only a few months prior? Keba seemed to hear her thoughts, for she arched an eyebrow and noted to Sharon, "But know that this will be only the first of many tests."
Turning away now, she proceed to speak to the rest of the assembled owners and trainers present -- even a soon-to-be-prize slave like Sharon was usually spoken about, not to. Keba continued in a voice now clipped and aloof with professional detachment, "Having confirmed the girl's temperament for initial group dynamics, we must now increase her training regimen in anticipation of her future duties. Master Kane?" The browned skinned girl -- no, Lady, Sharon checked herself with still dawning realization -- turned to the hard-eyed trainer, who nodded deferentially and spoke up in his turn.
"My Lords and Lady, as you are all aware, the girl has progressed well in her unarmed and strength training -- particuarly well given her state upon first arrival at the K'Ral stables. Her progress bespeaks the prowess of the fine crafters of men -- and women -- here at your august holding." Kane offered a tight-lipped smile of deference; Sharon got the impression that he wasn't fond of these sorts of formalities. "Her weapons training is proceeding equally well, although there are still a number of fighting styles with which she has not yet had experience. But if she is to lead a team of gladiatrixes, tandem fighting and group drills will be added to her solo regimen. Assuming her pace matches her earlier progress, I estimate her ready for the arena in no more than two moons. However.." the hardened trainer paused, glancing queriously at one of the other men sitting aside him -- a slim and arched old man whom Sharon had never seen before, thick spectacles perched upon a beakish nose and wizened fingers clutching a thick brief of parchment -- "However I am told there may be other ... considerations first."
Sun Jun 15 08:44:08 2003