Though task at hand was clear, Agron’s thoughts, as was usual since the Syrian had joined them, proved far less so. He had no place for such distraction, his duties in Spartacus’ growing army leaving him little leisure and even less intent to invite a heart’s wound awaiting infliction.
And yet. When work was assigned, he said nothing against Nasir’s presence at his side, now or when at rest. Instead he sought the man out on flimsy pretense, finding interest in any shred of past or nature he cared offer. Agron almost resented himself, how obvious his intentions, but caution had fled with Nasir’s Roman name, with easy smile, with collar recently discarded, and he could only follow and pray to his father’s gods that he would survive the war he suspected he had already lost.
Concerns for another time, for the future he dared not name. First they must survive this hunt. They sought only beasts this day, but complacency would serve them ill, and he would not look the fool to the Syrian’s eyes.
“You have never hunted boar.” Spoken low to carry between them, it was no question, and Agron kept eyes to path as he slowed to allow Nasir’s approach. He hefted the light spear he carried, judging its balance on his palm. “They are no easy prey. Fast, and deadly… allowed free movement, they will gut you where you stand.”
“I am no more hunter than soldier.” Nasir spoke with voice equally low, eyes lingering over the form beside him, drifting upward briefly to roam over short stubble and keen gaze. They shifted forward once more, mindful of the danger that lurked ahead. Not that he was fearful; in truth, Nasir could not recall a time he had truly feared. Long ago, perhaps, when first pulled from mother’s arms.
“I remain uncertain why I am here.” He understood the training; Spartacus needed more fighters among his ranks. Not that Nasir nor any of his kind would ever rise to gladiators, but that need he understood. Hunting, though--he was far more comfortable with the preparation of a meal than the supply of such.
Dark eyes flickered once more to the gladiator beside him. He thought once more of his lack of fear, and knew there lingered another reason. Nasir did not believe that Agron would allow such a fate to take place. He barely knew the man, beyond tentative broach of words and past insults, and yet, found himself feeling safe at his side. His gaze dropped to the spear in Agron’s hand, and words fell before he could stop them.
blakekathryn
kaledo-art
prguitarman
annaxmalina
turnnoffyourmind
baratheonpilled
