Chains of Fate (2/?)
Title: Chains of Fate (2/?)
Pairings:
Gladiator!Cara/slavegirl!Kahlan, Domina!Denna/Richard, Domina!Denna/personal.servant!Dahlia, Gladiator!Raina/Berdine, Gladiator!Chase/Emma, Garen/Dahlia
Rating: M
Warnings: Uh... feelings would be an understatement, minor character death, sexyteims... blood... teasing... it's Sparty and LotS what do you expect?
Disclaimer: Most certainly not mine.
Summary: Denna has a gift for her greatest gladiator.
This is a combo present for deversum , xxmisssassyxx and xixlovexgreenx.
Previously: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
Cara opened her eyes slowly and squinted into the darkness; it much too early too be up, her body told her training would not start for a good many hours. The sound that originally pulled her from the sway of Morpheus reached her ears once more and the woman sat up, her loose braid brushing against the bare skin of her back as she gazed around the small cell.
Sea-green eyes fell upon the other occupant of the cell and the gladiator frowned. Kahlan twisted fitfully on the bedroll, soft whimpers escaping here and there. Cara sighed and slowly got up; this had been happening for nearly eight nights now - Kahlan's nightmares. So far, aside from waking her (which led to Kahlan getting no sleep for fear of dreaming again), holding the woman seemed to work best. Cara moved silently and slid down behind Kahlan, gently letting an arm fall over the taller woman's waist before scooting closer.
"Shh, it's alright." Cara cooed, tightening her arm around Kahlan's waist briefly, "I've got you."
Kahlan quieted in her arms and automatically scooted back against the gladiator, smiling in her sleep when Cara pressed the palm of her hand to her bare stomach. Cara let out a small sigh, her breath ghosting against Kahlan's hair and the back of her neck, eyes closing to get a little more sleep before training.
When sleep refused to come to her she sighed and tightened her arm around Kahlan's waist, maneuvering around slowly to get her other arm under Kahlan's head without waking her. Kahlan made a small sound of enjoyment in the back of throat and Cara brushed the tip of her nose against Kahlan's shoulder.
She stayed like that for the next few hours, occasionally drawing her fingertips in soothing circles against Kahlan's stomach. Cara sighed when Kahlan started to come back to the world of the living and opted to keep her arms around the woman instead of leaving her.
"You're holding me." Cara's lips twitched at the tiredness in Kahlan's voice and the bluntness of her statement.
"Yes."
"You can let go of me now."
Cara reluctantly pulled away from Kahlan and sat up only to be pulled back down again, "you just... said..."
"I know what I said. I changed my mind." Cara bit her bottom lip and nodded her head, moving around to hesitantly wrap her arms around the other woman. A few heartbeats of silence paced before Kahlan spoke, her voice was soft and curious, "why did you pick me?"
"Instinct." Cara murmured as if it answered everything and left nothing to be discussed.
Kahlan sighed and turned some to look at the blonde, "care to explain what you mean by instinct?"
Cara gave her a teasing smile, "right, I forget you have not been here for very long. Instinct. The gladiators here that live the longest rely on it. It's a gut instinct. It's that twist in the stomach that tells you when to duck or that tells you when to strike blindly." Kahlan's features screwed together as she tried to figure out exactly what instinct and picking her had to do with anything. "My gut told me to pick you over the others. I was pulled to you," Cara whispered, taking pity on the woman and tightening her arm around Kahlan's waist - muscles in her upper arm flexing. Cara remained quiet for a few minutes before deciding to continue, "when my father moved us from our homeland we traveled across the sea. I was too young to remember much, however, I remember the water and how blue it was. I'd never seen water so blue before, especially seawater. It was beautiful. Like your eyes. Your eyes remind me of the sea."
She didn't comment on Kahlan's blush or the small, indecipherable squeak which escaped her throat; the gladiator pressed on, "I could see it in your eyes. You're like the ocean... untamable."
Kahlan rolled onto her back in Cara's arms, squinting at her with a disbelieving look, "I am tamed..."
Cara shook her head and smiled down at Kahlan lightly, "no. I told you. I could see it. You are like the ocean and untamable. People have tried to tame you... but you are not. People have probably died trying, am I correct?" Kahlan bit her bottom lip and nodded her head quietly, "I have seen broken people, Kahlan. Tamed people. You are not." Cara's hand trailed slowly up and down Kahlan's side, tracing small patterns into her smooth skin.
The taller woman's face flushed and Cara watched as she tried to get words out - failing miserably. She remained quiet allowing Kahlan to gather her wits, obviously not used to being so blatantly flirted with or complimented in such a manner. Kahlan bit her bottom lip and blushed even more, her eyes traversed Cara's face before landing on her lips - glued to the spot.
"Cara?" She breathed and the blonde squeezed her side in answer, hands oddly soft even with the calluses from wielding a sword, "will you.... kiss me?"
Cara's lips twitched upwards into a small smile before she started a slow descent only to be interrupted by a hard wooden stick banging against the door of her cell, "wake up girl, training begins soon." Cara groaned and let her head drop - forehead pressing against Kahlan's shoulder before forced herself into a standing position.
"At a more appropriate time. You deserve better anyways. Not to be kissed on the floor of a gladiator's cell." Cara muttered and Kahlan watched her with a new look in her eyes as she began to dress for the day.
The days and nights they had been together left Kahlan with a new view on the blonde woman - she no longer thought her to be some blood thirsty barbarian out to defile women and cut the throats of other slaves in an arena of blood and sand. Nor were the other gladiators.
She watched from the bedroll as Cara pulled on her training outfit; simple cloth cut breeches cut off at mid-thigh for the Roman summer and a wrap around her chest with simple, Roman sandals to protect her feet from the hot sand.
"You should probably get dressed, Kahlan. Domina will probably have a set of tasks for you to attend to, as well as breakfasts for the servants."
"I said up, girl."
"I'm coming you old coot."
Kahlan watched Cara with an amused expression before sitting up and slowly pulling the primarily white, loose dress on, simple black designs decorating the material. It showed quite a bit more skin than something she would have worn prior to being sold by her father, Frederick, but it covered her... even if it did leave an indecent amount of skin on her chest and abdomen visible...
And her arms...
And her hips...
And her back...
Her ears twitched when she heard a thud and a grunt; Kahlan turned her head and looked even more amused - Cara was holding her now bloody nose, having quite obviously walked into the wall instead out of the open cell door.
Maybe showing a bit of skin has its benefits.
Cara groaned and kept her hand to her nose, "wib yo'b neeb ebscob'd to'b the'b maim'b rebibence?"
Kahlan moved towards her after securing her sandals, forcing herself not to chuckle, "no... I can find my way. You should go and get food before training."
"Oka'b." Cara nodded her head obediently, turning to leave the small cell, "I wib see'b yo'b fo'b dibber?"
Kahlan nodded her head and planted a chaste kiss on Cara's cheek, handing her a scrap of cloth to clean her hand and face, "now, go beat up some poor fool."
Cara's lips twitched as she wiped her hand mostly clean and brought the cloth to her nose, wiping at her face, "Tha'b yo'b."
"Get that looked at?"
"Oka'b." Cara nodded her head, "Bu'b dab mea'b I geb to ebscob yo'b to'b the'b maim'b rebibence."
Kahlan couldn't hold back her laugh this time, "alright. Alright. Come on. Escort me to the main area and then go get your nose looked at... and get some food in you? You don't want to collapse from hunger."
"Oka'b!" Cara whined and held her non-bloody hand out for Kahlan to take, smiling when she did.
**************************************
Kahlan bit her bottom lip as the blonde servant with a braid as long as Cara's explained how to carry and serve the wine and food for Domina and how it was different when there were guests present. "Now... when Domina has a guest present you offer Domina the wine first... Domina's lover, and then the guest... it does not matter who they are or what their station in life is. Domina is your Mistress and she comes before all others. They do not provide you with food, shelter or clothing. Domina is the one who provides. Am I understood?" Kahlan nodded her head, nose scrunched as she continued to pay attention, "when you pour the wine you do so like this..." she watched Dahlia demonstrate as another slave held the wine class as Domina typically did, "now you try."
Dahlia watched with a critical eye as Kahlan took the jug easily from the stone table and mimicked her perfectly, pouring the wine gracefully into the glass, "wonderful.... now... you are going to pour the wine for Domina... I am going to serve the food, we will cover that tomorrow since you and I will be up in the balcony with Domina until she chooses to attend to any other matters. She has requested that you also be her personal servant... this is why I am training you personally. I am her personal servant, I have been for the last eight years and will continue to be until she has released me from my duties." Kahlan nodded her head quietly and held the jug of wine carefully.
They walked in comfortable silence side-by-side, Kahlan took in the feeling of cold marble on her now bare feet - she wasn't sure she would ever get used to it. They made slow progress, Dahlia would occasionally pause to tell another servant something to be added onto their current duties or to just greet them in general, introducing Kahlan politely to them.
"And this Berdine. She is Domina's bookkeeper and the resident historian, she keeps track of Domina's earnings, winnings... taxes to be paid to Rome... but if you need to know anything she can find the answer if it has been written down in a book at some point. Berdine, this is Kahlan, the new girl."
Kahlan bowed her head and smiled at the short woman clutching an armful of books with a journal resting on top of them all, "hello."
"It's a pleasure to meet you Kahlan. Normally I would shake your hand but..." she shifted the books up some, "they're kinda full. I'll speak to you properly at lunch." Berdine grinned before looking to Dahlia, "Raina said something about a foreign prince coming? Do you know anything about it? The gladiators only have speculations as to the identity of the prince."
Dahlia nodded her head and Kahlan paid close attention, if she was going to remain in this ludus as a servant until Cara paid off her debts then she was going to at least pay attention to the goings on. Especially when it came to foreign dignitaries - something she was raised to deal with. "Yes, she told me a Prince Darken from D'Hara is coming to stay for about a month. It is why the servants and slaves have had their workloads increase so much."
Kahlan's stomach twisted, she knew of Prince Darken - a cruel and twisted man so vile he made his father, Lord Rahl, look like a man worthy of godhood. The two servants continued to converse in whispers about the imminent arrival of Prince Darken and she forced herself to tune into the conversation.
“Domina mentioned he may be bringing Mord'Sith... as the heir to D'Hara he will need protection.”
Her jaw tensed at the thought of Mord'Sith being so near, she may have been raised by her father but she knew of Mord'Sith. The Mistresses of Pain were something not to be trifled with, but then again - neither was she.
“Do you know when he will be arriving?” Berdine inquired, biting her bottom lip as she looked at the taller, blonde woman.
“Sometime this week apparently. The guest chambers have been prepared for Prince Rahl, be sure to inform Raina that the majority of Mord'Sith will be remaining with the gladiators.”
Berdine pulled a face but nodded her head, “I'll make sure to tell her when we have dinner later, will you be joining us at our table in the dining hall?”
Dahlia shook her head, “no, I have to tend to Domina tonight. I will probably wind up having dinner in her chambers with her. She sent Richard to purchase new collars and new smithing tools. You know how she doesn't like an empty bed.”
“At least you'll be completely satisfied.” Berdine smirked and Dahlia let out a small laugh, a faint blush appearing on her cheeks.
“Are you implying that Raina does not satisfy you, 'Dine?”
Kahlan glanced between the two as they conversed, talking freely about their sexual endeavors in a semi-public venue. “Oh no. You know full well that Raina is quite superior in bed.”
“Well if the moans of ecstasy coming from the cell you two share are any clue, I should hope she is. Can you please inform me the next time you two plan to go at it all night and well into the morning? My cell is next to you two.”
Berdine rolled her eyes quite dramatically, shifting her books around, “oh like you can complain really. I heard Domina put you to bed when you showed up exhausted.”
Dahlia's cheeks tinted adorably and she turned her head away, her eyes landing on Kahlan whose face was as red as the deep red wine Domina tended to enjoy. She looked back to Berdine, “that was only because Richard was out and she had nobody in her bed the night before.”
“She favors you and Cara...” Berdine paused and smiled sweetly at Kahlan, “but the girl you're training is uncomfortable and you should probably get the wine and food to Domina before she gets grumpy.”
Dahlia smiled as she watched Berdine just about sip off down the hall towards her initial destination, “you don't have to look so uncomfortable you know. At some point you and Cara are going to end up having sex meaning everybody is going to hear.” She watched Kahlan turn redder and rolled her eyes, “you'll get used to it. Come on. Domina is waiting.”
Kahlan nodded her head and followed Dahlia closely, not wanting to get separated from the woman in the maze of halls and white marble. Domina apparently had a thing for white and red, all of the guards, servants and slaves tended to be dressed in whites or reds; her ludus was built from white marble with an unnatural red coloring decorating the stone - marring it like veins of red fire. When Cara had taken her from to her cell all those nights ago Kahlan had been fascinated with the way the fire from torches gave the red an eerie glow.
They made good time to the balcony and Denna turned her head for a few moments, taking in the two women standing there before looking back down at the pit. Dahlia placed the food within arms reach of her Domina, "I see Cara has yet to take you."
Her fingers slipped on the jug of wine and Dahlia just about flailed as she dove forward to catch it, landing hard on her knees but the wine was safe. "Do you know how much this wine costs?!" Kahlan's cheeks flushed with embarrassment and she lowered her head, "you're doing food next time. I'm not risking you dropping something so expensive or as delectable as this."
**************************************
Cara laughed as she gripped her twin, wooden short swords, the signature weapons of a Dimachaerius. She swung her arms slowly to warm up her muscles, glancing at Chase in amusement, "are you trying to tell me that your oldest daughter punched a Roman soldier in the market and he didn't demand she be punished?"
Chase nodded his head thrusting his trident slowly, "yes. He refused to admit that a woman broke his nose in a single punch. A slave girl at that."
"You must be so proud of Laura," Cara laughed as she moved a little faster, her muscles warmed up sufficiently.
"Oh I am!" Chase grinned and turned his practice trident it against the ground, cocking his head to the side, "so tell me, that girl that sleeps in your cell."
Cara shook her head, "not open for discussion. You know that Chase. We don't discuss your sexual endeavors with your wife, I don't discuss them with my..." she paused trying to find the right word for Kahlan, "my..." she was at a loss.
Chase clapped a large hand on her shoulder, almost knocking her onto the ground due to its unexpectedness, "your woman?" He supplied with a booming laugh and her blushed caused him to laugh harder, "the D'Haran blushes!"
"Oh shut up Chase." Cara muttered under her breath, straightening and glaring at him. Her eyes strayed over to the new slaves as they walked in a circle lugging large posts to build their stamina. "Poor bastards," she sneered feeling absolutely no pity for them.
"Alright. Alright. Adie wants your attention." Cara and Chase turned slowly towards the blind, old trainer, her hair sticking out at odd angles and her milky eyes scanning what she could not see. Raina approached them, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Cara as they waited respectfully for Adie to continue. "Today Adie wants you fightin' pairs you would not normally fight. It might be comin' in handy one day very soon."
"Oh and here I was hoping I could get you on your back again, Cara." Raina teased and Cara arched a brow, turning her head slowly to look at the other woman, "what?"
"In what world have you ever had me on my back?"
Raina's lips twitched, "well there was one time..."
Cara lifted her hand, cutting her off from speaking further, "not a word more, woman or it will be you and I practicing and I will not deafen my blows. No matter how hard Berdine would beat me after."
Raina puffed her cheeks out and crossed her arms over her chests, clutching her gladius, "are you implying that I've no way to defend myself and must rely on my woman?" She nearly flailed when Cara turned from her, without answering, "you cannot just state something like that and then walk away, Cara!"
Chase smirked and threw a large arm over Cara's shoulder, "come on, D'Haran. You and I will participate in this challenge."
Twenty minutes later found the hulk of a retiarius swinging his net, stepping methodically around as he tried to find a good time to throw it and knock his shorter, more agile opponent to the ground. He took a step forward and threw his net - begging the fates to let the net fall upon her. It did not and Chase groaned, gripping his trident tightly with both hands the man thrust forward a few times, aiming for different parts of her anatomy.
Her head turned up towards the balcony, something catching her eyes and drawing her attention away from the fight at hand. Chase took his chance, knowing she was most likely bluffing as he thrust forward, aiming for her face with his blunted weapon. The end slammed hard into her face and she went toppling backwards a few feet, blood spraying from her mouth and nose. Chase's eyes widened and he immediately dropped his weapon, moving towards his fighting partner as fast as he could, dropping to his knees next to her.
"Are you alright?" He breathed, bringing his hands to her face in order to inspect the injury.
Cara groaned in pain and turned her head, blood spilling from her mouth as she tried to push herself up, "that woman will be the death of me..."
Chase lifted his head, casting dark eyes towards the balcony where Cara's woman was leaning over, looking down at the pit with worry etched upon her features. He gave a hearty laugh and looked down at Cara, helping her stand and locking an arm around her waist, "careful there. Your woman might just kill you at dinner for giving her such a fright." He glanced back up in time to see a pale hand shoot out and grip Kahlan by her collar, tugging her back to the safety of the balcony - the arms of the dark haired woman flailing dramatically. "You may want to talk to your woman about hanging over balcony edges though... it's a long fall."
Adie was in front of them, cupping Cara's bloody face in her weathered hands - feeling around mercilessly to measure the damage. "Adie wants you to go see Giller. Get your face tended to little girl."
"Come on, D'Haran."
**************************************
Cara smiled sheepishly as Kahlan sat quietly next to her holding a plate of whatever the cooks had prepared as well as a cup of water. Kahlan placed her food down before lifting a hand and pressing her fingertips lightly to the bruising on Cara's face. "Are you alright?"
"Bah. I'll be fine." Cara grinned, scrunching her abused nose at the attention - grimacing when she did so. "I have had much worse."
Kahlan bit her bottom lip and lowered her hand to Cara's shoulder, "I don't care if you've had worse. I want to know if you're alright right now. It was a hard blow to your face."
Cara smiled softly and moved her hand to grasp Kahlan's, bringing it back up to her face, "I'm alright. I would not lie to you. I wish to build a proper relationship with you. My face is just a little sore."
"Careful Cara. The children will think you're weak." Raina warned, sitting on the bench in front of Cara and Kahlan followed quickly by Berdine.
A few other gladiators and servants joined them and Cara rolled her eyes, "if being cared for by a beautiful woman makes me weak then so be it. I will kill anyone who tries to take me down, certainly they must know this by now?" She wrapped a possessive arm around Kahlan's waist and grabbed her bread, taking a small bite from it.
Kahlan sighed and leaned into Cara some, taking a bite of her own food, "I never would have expected servants and slaves to have such expensive food provided."
"Oh, it isn't expensive. Domina has many trades going with surrounding farmers. This particular family provides meat for fresh water and salt. It all works out in the end. You are right, most slaves and servants live off of gruel and such but Domina is smarter than her father." Berdine smiled, taking a stab at the meat on her plate, "I must admit. It tends to provide our gladiators..." she paused to pat Raina's stomach affectionately, "a bit of an edge on the field."
"And off the field." Chase smirked, causing his wife and Kahlan to blush.
Cara nodded her head in agreement only to have something smack into the back of her head - she turned slowly and looked in the general direction of where the bit of bread had come from. Her eyes landed on a sneering, future gladiator - she removed her arm from Kahlan and stood, straightening her back.
The skinny little male paled slightly as the hall went silent, taking in Cara's slow and deliberate steps towards him. "Boy. Did you throw that at me?"
One of the others clapped his back and he nodded, "you obviously don't know who I am boy... maybe I should educate you a little. I am Cara. I have not yet lost a battle in eight years. I am the Domina's preferred gladiator. I highly suggest you apologize."
He stood, sweating stones as he tried to keep a straight face, "I was aiming for the other one though. Common whores should not eat with us."
Cara's eyes narrowed dangerously and she felt a rage build up inside of her, running at the table and stepping on a few backs in order to leap higher. She landed with ease on top of the table and grabbed him by his throat, using her weight to push herself off of the table and slam the boy's head into the wall opposite him. "I'm sorry. I didn't see your mother here. There are no whores in this hall." He struggled and she brought her arm up, pressing it hard against his neck. "I suggest you apologize."
"Screw you. I would never apologize for speaking the truth. They are obviously whores... dangling on the arms of gladiators." Cara brought her knee up and slammed it between his legs, smirking when he cried out in pain, "you whore!" He squealed, his voice breaking from the unexpected and unhealthy blow.
"I am no whore, boy... apparently you've had no women to know the difference? Whore's you buy by the night, sometimes the hour." She grabbed him by his hair and yanked, smirking as he fell to his knees, "I should kill you now, boy. You've insulted a number of people in this hall. Many of whom are my friends... but I wouldn't want to dishonor my Domina in such a manner or be the cause of more work for my friends and family."
"Be glad for your reprieve, Flynn. Sit." A man called and Cara smirked, nodding in agreement as she let him drop to the floor.
"Crawl back to your whore!" The boy snarled and Cara lifted her eyes, catching the flash of sadness cross over Kahlan's features. She would have to talk to her later about that, she should not take an insult from a mere boy to heart; however the flash of sadness was enough to enrage her further. Cara turned hard and grabbed Flynn by his face in her calloused hand, yanking him up in time to slam his skull into the wall behind him - a sickening crack echoed throughout the silent hall.
Cara's teeth clenched as she smashed the back of his head into the wall over and over again until he remained unmoving. She released his face but grabbed him by his throat, wrapping her arm around his waist to lift him onto her shoulder. Cara fully intended to dispose of the body, she would at least do that much thanks to the mess she had caused.
Talk started up as soon as Cara left the hall, making fast work of depositing him on the pile to be disposed of tomorrow over the seaside cliff a few miles from the ludus. Cara glanced towards the hall once the body was thrown and smiled when she saw Kahlan approaching, balancing a plate and two cups in her hands (the plate being considerably fuller with food for two people).
Kahlan gave her a small smile when she was close enough, "go wash the blood from your hands... I will be in your cell."
Cara smiled softly at Kahlan and nodded her head, "I will be there soon then."
Ten minutes of scrubbing at the washing basin left Cara heading towards her cell; she smiled when she saw Kahlan with her back on the wall, legs stretched out in front of her on the bedroll. Cara closed the cell door gently and slowly took her sandals and tunic off before moving over and sitting next to Kahlan, taking the offered cup and a bit of food from the plate.
"Thank you... for defending my honor. You didn't have to kill him though..." Kahlan whispered, turning her head and looking down at Cara.
"He would have died sooner or later. He was weak and arrogant. Only four of those ten new sacks of meat will make it through to being branded with Domina's mark. Nine sacks now."
Kahlan sighed took a sip of water, "I don't like it but I accept that you have to kill to live."
Cara placed her cup down and moved her hand to cup Kahlan's face gently, drawing her fingertips lightly across the delicate skin of her cheek. "You were sad... I saw sadness flash in your eyes. I had to make it right."
Kahlan smiled softly and her bit her bottom lip, looking from Cara's lips to her eyes before leaning in slowly; Cara leaned in the rest of the way and pressed her lips gently to Kahlan's drawing her hand lightly up to tangle in Kahlan's hair. She let Kahlan take control of the kiss not wishing to push Kahlan into anything she was unready for. The gladiator was mildly surprised when Kahlan moved and straddled her, hands resting on her shoulders - kissing her deeply (and possessively if she might say so herself). Cara's hands moved firmly to Kahlan's hips, holding her steady - her grip turned gentle as she caressed the lightweight cloth and Kahlan's sides.
After a few minutes Cara grunted, strong hands pressing her shoulders into the wall as Kahlan scrambled backwards, panting - chest heaving. Cara lifted her hand to the back of her head, feeling for any blood before looking incredulously at Kahlan only to have inky black eyes staring back at her.
"Kahlan?" Cara shifted to her knees and moved quickly, trying to touch Kahlan.
"Don't touch me!" Kahlan panted, scrambling back further.
Cara frowned and stopped, stomach twisting, "Kahlan... please? Talk to me. Tell me what's wrong. Do I need to get the physician? Giller is creepy but... he's good at what he does. Is it something I've done? Your eyes... why?"
Kahlan looked into Cara's eyes, slowly beginning to calm down, the darkness leaving her eyes as she continued to shake. "Cara..."
"Kahlan? Tell me... please... what is it? What's wrong?"
Kahlan continued to tremble, pressing herself against the opposite wall while she tried to get as far away from Cara as she could. "Please... just stay away. Don't touch me. It isn't safe."
Cara shook her head and moved forward again, pressing her lips gently to Kahlan's forehead. "I can't do that, Kahlan. I care for you and I want to know what's wrong..." the blonde whispered, maneuvering around to sit next to Kahlan again - pulling her gently onto her lap. "What was that? Your eyes. Why did they turn black?"
Kahlan tried to pull away but Cara just wrapped her arms tight around Kahlan's waist, holding her secure, "I almost destroyed you, Cara... please... leave me be."
"No. Tell me." Cara whispered, letting the tip of her nose brush against Kahlan's shoulder, "tell me everything. What are you? How can I keep that from happening again?"
Kahlan ducked her head forward and let her head rest against Cara's shoulder, she knew full well she would have no chance of getting out of the gladiator's firm grasp. Cara dragged her fingers slowly up and down Kahlan's side, drawing small, soothing designs into her skin. "I am from the Midlands... I am a Confessor... my father sold me to slavers to pay off a debt. Do you know what a Confessor is?" Cara shook her head quietly and Kahlan sighed, smiling lightly when Cara tightened her grip some, "we're an order of women. We have the ability to ascertain truth beyond all doubt... but the magic inside of us... when released... will destroy any person a Confessor touches at that time."
Cara's brows furrowed as she pressed her nose to the side of Kahlan's head, inhaling the scent of her hair, "it was something I did then? Something to make you react in such a manner?"
Kahlan straightened and shook her head, eyes widening in horror, "no... oh Spirits no. It... Confessors cannot... experience pleasure... without losing control of their magic." She lifted her hands to cup Cara's face hesitantly, "please... I would never do that to you."
Cara looked into Kahlan's eyes for a moment before starting to grin, "so... you're telling me I am that skilled of a kisser? To cause you such pleasures you almost... 'released'?" Her features soon turned smug as she kissed Kahlan's throat lightly - pulling her closer.
"Please... don't... tell anyone?" Kahlan asked after a few minutes of silence and Cara knew she was speaking of her being a Confessor.
Cara moved her hand, cupping Kahlan's face gently to look directly into her eyes, "I will not tell a soul..." the young woman vowed, pulling Kahlan closer, holding her protectively.
Kahlan moved down some and tucked her head under Cara's chin, "thank you..." she smiled when Cara's arms tightened around her waist.
"I don't care if you are a Confessor..." she brushed the tip of her nose against Kahlan's cheek, "the fates obviously wanted you with me. I will be your Champion." She left no room for discussion, "now... we've food to finish and drink to intake before bed." Kahlan's lips twitched at how fast Cara changed the subject from something so serious to a lighter matter.
**************************************
Denna groaned as sun light filled her bed chambers - and arm tightened around her waist and a pair of lips pressed into her chest. "Draw those back before I have you thrown into the pit," Denna snarled in her sleepy state. Her own arms tightened around the lithe body pressed into her and darkness surrounded them once more.
"Prince Rahl will be arriving today, we need to get up..." a soft, male voice breathed into her ear, stubble brushing against her shoulder.
Denna shook her head adorably and scooted away from the man, wrapping her arms tighter around the other woman in her bed. She looked down when her personal servant burrowed further into her and smiled, moving a hand to brush her fingers through the younger woman's blonde locks. "I will in a while. I wish to lie here with my mate and my pet." Denna muttered, rolling on her back and pulling Dahlia gently on top of her.
A sigh met her ears and she smiled when Richard pulled both her and a still sleeping Dahlia into his arms; Denna let her head drop onto his chest and closed her eyes. Nearly an hour passed before they moved again and even then it was Richard to climb out of bed, "I will have a bath drawn for us?" Denna burrowed back in under the sheets and pulled Dahlia closer, nodding her head in his direction. "Alright," he laughed and brought his hand to cup her cheek lightly.
Dahlia turned her head tiredly and pressed her mouth to one of Denna's breasts before forcing her head up to look at Denna's chin. "Did you sleep well?" Denna asked, brushing her hand gently over Dahlia's back.
"Mmm..." Dahlia nodded her head and pushed her nose into Denna's neck, inhaling slowly.
"Richard is drawing a bath... after I need you to send word to Adie that the gladiators are to wash and in the pit ready to greet our guest..." she smiled at Dahlia's prompt nod of her head, "and then you may come back and have a late breakfast with me." Dahlia nodded her head again and Denna stroked her back lightly before bringing her hand to the woman's backside and patting lightly. "Up. We don't want Richard contaminating the water. You remember the last time he jumped into the bathing pool, he bled out and it took forever to get it refilled."
That got Dahlia from her Domina's arms and scurrying through the chambers into the next room; Denna groaned in protest at the sudden lack of warmth before following her servant, attempting to stifle a laugh when she saw Richard and Dahlia already in the warm water glaring daggers at each other.
"I don't see how you think you are superior at keeping Denna warm. I am warmer than you therefore I keep her warmer." Richard muttered, bringing his hand up to wash a bicep.
Dahlia rolled her eyes, bringing her own hand up to wash her arm with the rose scented water, "but clearly I am superior at keeping her warm. I cling to her in my sleep therefore keeping her warm is what I am good at. She just rests her head on your arm."
Denna sighed and slipped into the water, "oh hush both of you."
"Yes Domina."
"Yes Denna."
"Richard. I want you to make sure everyone is where they are supposed to be when Darken shows up later. Make sure the guards have their armor shinned... Dahlia make sure the gladiators, servants and slaves are clean... and keep the wine flowing?" She sat upon a step and enjoyed the warmth of the water, eyes closing as she added her voice laced with boredom, "and keep an ear out. If any of his Mord'Sith or soldiers get rough with any of mine I want it reported immediately. I will have no gladiator too sore to fight in the arena and no servant seeing Giller from the kisses of Agiels or fists."
**************************************
Denna smirked as she lay on the bed, arms crossed behind her head comfortably with Dahlia straddling her hips - pale skin glistening with sweat, causing a bit of shine thanks to the sunlight pouring in. Dahlia licked her bottom lip and smiled sweetly at her with her arm raised, a single grape secured between her index and thumb. She lowered the grape to Denna's lips her sweet smile turning into a grin when her Domina took the piece of fruit between her lips. The free servant leaned down, placing her hands on either side of Denna's head to brace herself before capturing her lips.
A few minutes passed as Dahlia attempted to gain the upper hand in the kiss, attempting to steal the grape into her mouth as the kiss became a game. She felt Denna's strong hands on her hips and squeaked when her back hit the bed, officially loosing the grape to Denna. Her Domina smirked and moved her hands slowly over her pale arms, caressing the skin beneath her fingertips affectionately.
"Did you really think you could top me, Dahlia?" Denna asked, giving Dahlia a teasing smile as she chewed and swallowed the deep, purple grape in her mouth.
"Never, Domina." Dahlia pushed herself up on her elbows, leaning up more to kiss Denna gently - trying to convey her submission.
Denna returned the kiss slowly and used her body to get Dahlia's back on the bed, maneuvering her lower body between Dahlia's legs. Her hands trailed slowly down Dahlia's thighs and gripped her by her knees, pulling up gently - Dahlia got the idea and wound her legs around the other woman's waist. She leaned down and pressed her lips to Dahlia's throat, nibbling lightly and sucking - she intended to leave a love bite that would last a few weeks. The soft mewling sound that escaped Dahlia's throat gave her cause to push her hips down lightly, groaning when the cloth of Dahlia's simple dress blocked her path.
Why is my pet still dressed and I am not?
She made quick work of getting Dahlia's dress up and off, pushing it away as she leaned down to claim her mouth again. Denna pressed her hips forward and moaned, thoroughly enjoying the feel of being so intimately close to her pet. Dahlia closed her eyes and arched her back, tightening her legs around her mistress', "Domina? Would you like me to please you?"
Denna's lips twitched as she kissed her way from Dahlia's lips to her neck, "no..." she mumbled into the delicate skin, "today I please you." She moved around and slowly pulled Dahlia's legs from around her, protesting slightly at her own actions before bringing her hands to ghost over Dahlia's thighs.
"Domina..." the younger woman practically keened, her back bowing up in a perfect arch as nimble fingers brushed through her folds. Skilled fingers stimulated her clit and more fingers teased her slick entrance, "oh! Domina..." she choked out.
"Domina I have you-" a jar shattered and Denna's head whipped around, hair flying as she eyed the one who interrupted them. Kahlan stood there in her simple, white dress now splattered with red wine, feet covered by wine and bits of pottery. She felt sorry for the poor woman, her face matched the deep color of the wine; Denna took pity on her.
"Go clean yourself, Kahlan and fetch new wine... have it taken to the balcony. I will have the mess cleaned later."
"Yes Domina!" Kahlan squeaked and scurried off; Denna returned her attentions to a panting and oblivious Dahlia.
Denna's fingers twitched against Dahlia's clit and she slowly began to rub, pushing two fingers into her heated core; she began thrusting slowly, smiling as Dahlia's body responded like a finely tuned lute. It didn't take long before Dahlia broke beneath her, a cry echoing throughout the predominately white chambers. Her fingers slowed, bringing Dahlia down from her high gently before she pulled out. A tired smile was plastered on her personal servant as Denna pulled her into her arms, kissing the top of her head - wiping her fingers clean on the sheets.
"Food?" Denna asked softly, stroking Dahlia's heated skin slowly with the pads of her fingers; a tired nod against her chest was her only reply.
**************************************
Whack.
"Ow! What did you do that for!"
"Dahlia! Don't hit Cara's woman!"
"Kahlan, are you okay?"
"You broke a jug of expensive wine! In Domina's chambers!"
Kahlan blushed to the roots of her hair and nearly dropped her plate (which Cara quickly took in order to save the food), "yes... well... I did not exactly expect to walk in on... on..."
Dahlia glared hard at her, taking a long gulp of water from her cup before speaking calmly, "I am her personal servant. Did you expect anything different?"
"B-but... she was..." a soothing hand to the small of her back calmed her and Kahlan smiled gratefully at Cara, dropping the subject and returning to the previous one, "I was shocked is all. It won't happen again."
"It had better not. That was good, Roman wine." Dahlia muttered, crossing her arms over her chest.
Cara leaned towards Kahlan, handing her back her plate of food as she did so, "don't mind her. She's exceptionally skilled with wine. My mother taught her everything she knows." Kahlan gave her a confused look and Cara planted a small kiss on her shoulder, ignoring the "aw" from Berdine's direction, "I will explain tonight."
A young boy bounded into the dining hall and everyone looked in his direction, Flavius was Denna's messenger and errand boy, "Prince Rahl and his party have been spotted."
Everyone stood (Kahlan merely stood because Cara pulled her up) and moved towards the numerous openings in the hall, "you'll need to go with Dahlia. Try not to drop the wine." Cara teased and kissed Kahlan's shoulder again before pushing her gently towards Dahlia. Chase clapped his hand on her back and Cara nearly fell forward from the force, "Chase. Remember. I'm smaller than you."
"You fly farther!" He grinned and threw an arm around her shoulders, nodding to his wife and daughter as they went with the rest of the servants to attend to their stations in the House.
By the time the gladiators were suited in their varying types of armor, weapons of their trade in hand (and helmets in place for those who wore them) it was announced that Darken was at the gates. They rushed around, gladiators their of their own free will or loyal to their Domina making sure the potential gladiators and less scrupulous ones were on their best of behaviors. Ten minutes later found sixty gladiators in the pit, standing in perfectly straight rows of 10 - the best at the front, their armor shining brighter, sun-kissed skin glistening in the sun with sweat forming on their bodies.
Voice came close and the gladiators remained staring ahead, not daring to look up until they were told, "and these are my gladiators..."
Sixty voice rang out in unison with a single word, weapons raised in the air - most out of respect the rest out of fear, "Domina!"
Silence.
"Impressive, Denna... very impressive. Does your husband train them? I hear he is quite the warrior, this Richard."
"No. A free gladiator does, she has remained to train them."
"Ah..." the foreign Prince leaned over the balcony, elbows resting upon the marble - Cara spared a glance up, taking in the red and gold of his clothes.
So this is what a Rahl looks like.
She watched him survey the gladiators, "women too? I had heard you trained them but I merely though that to be jest."
Denna's eyes narrowed slightly but she plastered a fake smile on and turned her head to look at him, "the women are the best fighters... this House's Champion is Cara Mason." Domina pointed down at her and Cara raised her left hand, grasping her short sword tightly in respect for her Mistress and friend.
Darken nodded his head, clasping his fingers together under his chin as he continued to survey them all, "hmm... I have a proposition for you... the Mord'Sith and soldiers that have accompanied me will be getting bored without anything to do... why not have a few matches? Your best Gladiators against my Mord'Sith and men?"
Denna's eyes gleamed at the prospect of being able to show off the skill her ludus possessed but she was as smart woman, "we must discuss this in private..." she nodded her head down to the gladiators and they relaxed as Darken turned away, moving back into the large, white home.
**************************************
Berdine trembled as she knelt next to her Domina, watching her mate walk out onto the field holding her gladius tight in her hand, shield strapped to her left arm. The leather clad woman stepped out from the opposite end, Agiel strapped to her thigh, a confident expression on her features with promises of pain in her eyes. Richard stood, shooting a glare at Darken as he did so who shrugged it off, announcing for the spectators (consisting of gladiators, servants, slaves, Mord'Sith and soldiers).
"The Greek," he motioned dramatically towards Raina who kept her eyes on her opponent, "versus..." he glared down at the Mord'Sith, "a common Mord'Sith. Surely, surely our favored will win and bring glory to this House!" Cheers and shouts drowned out the catcalls and negative comments, echoing in the pit. "After ten minutes, whoever is left standing is the winner."
Berdine felt a gently hand on her head and looked up, smiling lightly at her Domina who gave her an encouraging look - petting her head lightly as she lifted her glass. Dahlia moved over and poured wine slowly, careful not to spill a drop; the hand moved to the back of her neck and massaged lightly, soothing her as she turned back to watch her lover.
"May Jupiter bless this battle. Begin!" Richard shouted and backed up to his seat, sitting down - he did not like putting the gladiators in unnecessary battles. It left more chance for one dying and he cared for the gladiators, quite a few were his friends - he trained with them in the mornings and ate meals with them on occasion.
Kahlan looked silently to Denna who glanced her way and nodded - she moved slowly towards Berdine and knelt next to her, wrapping an arm around her waist. The tiny woman leaned heavily into her, watching the fight begin to unfold with fear in her heart.
**************************************
Cara's teeth clenched as she and Chase stood shoulder-to-shoulder, both watching their friend as she neared the Mord'Sith taking in her movements and studying her. The woman had yet to draw her weapon and Raina was already on the defensive - shield raised slightly, ready to deflect if necessary.
"She'll be fine... she'll be fine..." Cara glanced up at the huge man, giving him a nod.
"Of course she will. She's one of the three best fighters here... and Berdine has been drilling 'tactics' into her brain for years. She knows what to do in any given situation."
"Hah, you're right. And she's Greek to boot, we don't fall easy... and this Mord'Sith is D'Haran, they fall easy..." he smirked own at her and she glared at him in a light hearted manner before looking back to the fight, blinking.
Raina was blocking a blow already.
**************************************
Raina grunted as the woman sank her Agiel into her shield, she could hear the scream of the weapon and her arm vibrated with dulled pain. She tumbled to the left and landed in a crouch, shaking her shield arm out slowly, she needed to end this fast for Berdine's sake. Her poor mate was probably going to be sick to her stomach if they went on much longer and they were only two minutes into the fight.
Eyes flicked from left to right as she studied her opponent's movements more, the single blow from the Mord'Sith left her shield arm weak and she certainly was not going to chance a second hit.
She needed to kill the woman.
Fast.
Her mind scanned everything Berdine drilled into her head over the last few years before she decided to take the woman by surprise and pray to the Gods that it was not her time. She still had to buy Berdine's freedom so they could get a small home in Greece by the sea like her lover dreamed of.
Before she had a chance to try and plan a way to surprise the dark haired woman, the Mord'Sith lunged and the Agiel met her shield once more. Raina cried out in shock and pain, the force of the tackle sending them both to the ground and gave her the advantage.
She was a grappler.
Raina let her sword drop and slid her arm from the leather straps of her shield in one motion, wrapping her body around foreign bitch. Thankfully Berdine could not read her mind; she would prefer not to get scolded for calling a woman a female dog just this once. The Mord'Sith was taken by surprise as she tried to roll around and get Raina off of her but as soon as Raina's legs locked around her body and her arm was secured around her throat she was done for.
Just forty seconds into getting choked out the woman held her hand up, begging for mercy and praying for air from the auditor of the match.
"That will take you to take on a Greek." Raina hissed in her ear and tightened her arm even more.
"Hmm... it would seem my Mord'Sith has been bested... she has dishonored me, let her go to the Keeper."
Raina looked at Denna, paying no heed to the spoiled Prince, "allow her to live, Raina." Raina nodded her head once and released the Mord'Sith from her vice-grip, allowing her to roll to the side - unconscious.
"I said let her die." Darken snapped and Raina smirked, watching her Domina stand and stare the noble down as though he were a bug in need of swatting.
"This is my ludus, Darken. I say who lives and who dies."
A/N: And now for Vocabulary -
Dimachaerius: the singular of Dimachaerii, these fighters use two short swords (think Sparty or Ganicus).
Retiarius: the singular of Retarii, they fight with a trident, dagger and net and are pretty much naked save for a loincloth held in place by a wide belt and a large arm guard extending from wrist to shoulder and over the chest a bit (think Barcca but substitute the spear for a trident).
Pairings:
Gladiator!Cara/slavegirl!Kahlan, Domina!Denna/Richard, Domina!Denna/personal.servant!Dahlia, Gladiator!Raina/Berdine, Gladiator!Chase/Emma, Garen/Dahlia
Rating: M
Warnings: Uh... feelings would be an understatement, minor character death, sexyteims... blood... teasing... it's Sparty and LotS what do you expect?
Disclaimer: Most certainly not mine.
Summary: Denna has a gift for her greatest gladiator.
This is a combo present for deversum , xxmisssassyxx and xixlovexgreenx.
Previously: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
Cara opened her eyes slowly and squinted into the darkness; it much too early too be up, her body told her training would not start for a good many hours. The sound that originally pulled her from the sway of Morpheus reached her ears once more and the woman sat up, her loose braid brushing against the bare skin of her back as she gazed around the small cell.
Sea-green eyes fell upon the other occupant of the cell and the gladiator frowned. Kahlan twisted fitfully on the bedroll, soft whimpers escaping here and there. Cara sighed and slowly got up; this had been happening for nearly eight nights now - Kahlan's nightmares. So far, aside from waking her (which led to Kahlan getting no sleep for fear of dreaming again), holding the woman seemed to work best. Cara moved silently and slid down behind Kahlan, gently letting an arm fall over the taller woman's waist before scooting closer.
"Shh, it's alright." Cara cooed, tightening her arm around Kahlan's waist briefly, "I've got you."
Kahlan quieted in her arms and automatically scooted back against the gladiator, smiling in her sleep when Cara pressed the palm of her hand to her bare stomach. Cara let out a small sigh, her breath ghosting against Kahlan's hair and the back of her neck, eyes closing to get a little more sleep before training.
When sleep refused to come to her she sighed and tightened her arm around Kahlan's waist, maneuvering around slowly to get her other arm under Kahlan's head without waking her. Kahlan made a small sound of enjoyment in the back of throat and Cara brushed the tip of her nose against Kahlan's shoulder.
She stayed like that for the next few hours, occasionally drawing her fingertips in soothing circles against Kahlan's stomach. Cara sighed when Kahlan started to come back to the world of the living and opted to keep her arms around the woman instead of leaving her.
"You're holding me." Cara's lips twitched at the tiredness in Kahlan's voice and the bluntness of her statement.
"Yes."
"You can let go of me now."
Cara reluctantly pulled away from Kahlan and sat up only to be pulled back down again, "you just... said..."
"I know what I said. I changed my mind." Cara bit her bottom lip and nodded her head, moving around to hesitantly wrap her arms around the other woman. A few heartbeats of silence paced before Kahlan spoke, her voice was soft and curious, "why did you pick me?"
"Instinct." Cara murmured as if it answered everything and left nothing to be discussed.
Kahlan sighed and turned some to look at the blonde, "care to explain what you mean by instinct?"
Cara gave her a teasing smile, "right, I forget you have not been here for very long. Instinct. The gladiators here that live the longest rely on it. It's a gut instinct. It's that twist in the stomach that tells you when to duck or that tells you when to strike blindly." Kahlan's features screwed together as she tried to figure out exactly what instinct and picking her had to do with anything. "My gut told me to pick you over the others. I was pulled to you," Cara whispered, taking pity on the woman and tightening her arm around Kahlan's waist - muscles in her upper arm flexing. Cara remained quiet for a few minutes before deciding to continue, "when my father moved us from our homeland we traveled across the sea. I was too young to remember much, however, I remember the water and how blue it was. I'd never seen water so blue before, especially seawater. It was beautiful. Like your eyes. Your eyes remind me of the sea."
She didn't comment on Kahlan's blush or the small, indecipherable squeak which escaped her throat; the gladiator pressed on, "I could see it in your eyes. You're like the ocean... untamable."
Kahlan rolled onto her back in Cara's arms, squinting at her with a disbelieving look, "I am tamed..."
Cara shook her head and smiled down at Kahlan lightly, "no. I told you. I could see it. You are like the ocean and untamable. People have tried to tame you... but you are not. People have probably died trying, am I correct?" Kahlan bit her bottom lip and nodded her head quietly, "I have seen broken people, Kahlan. Tamed people. You are not." Cara's hand trailed slowly up and down Kahlan's side, tracing small patterns into her smooth skin.
The taller woman's face flushed and Cara watched as she tried to get words out - failing miserably. She remained quiet allowing Kahlan to gather her wits, obviously not used to being so blatantly flirted with or complimented in such a manner. Kahlan bit her bottom lip and blushed even more, her eyes traversed Cara's face before landing on her lips - glued to the spot.
"Cara?" She breathed and the blonde squeezed her side in answer, hands oddly soft even with the calluses from wielding a sword, "will you.... kiss me?"
Cara's lips twitched upwards into a small smile before she started a slow descent only to be interrupted by a hard wooden stick banging against the door of her cell, "wake up girl, training begins soon." Cara groaned and let her head drop - forehead pressing against Kahlan's shoulder before forced herself into a standing position.
"At a more appropriate time. You deserve better anyways. Not to be kissed on the floor of a gladiator's cell." Cara muttered and Kahlan watched her with a new look in her eyes as she began to dress for the day.
The days and nights they had been together left Kahlan with a new view on the blonde woman - she no longer thought her to be some blood thirsty barbarian out to defile women and cut the throats of other slaves in an arena of blood and sand. Nor were the other gladiators.
She watched from the bedroll as Cara pulled on her training outfit; simple cloth cut breeches cut off at mid-thigh for the Roman summer and a wrap around her chest with simple, Roman sandals to protect her feet from the hot sand.
"You should probably get dressed, Kahlan. Domina will probably have a set of tasks for you to attend to, as well as breakfasts for the servants."
"I said up, girl."
"I'm coming you old coot."
Kahlan watched Cara with an amused expression before sitting up and slowly pulling the primarily white, loose dress on, simple black designs decorating the material. It showed quite a bit more skin than something she would have worn prior to being sold by her father, Frederick, but it covered her... even if it did leave an indecent amount of skin on her chest and abdomen visible...
And her arms...
And her hips...
And her back...
Her ears twitched when she heard a thud and a grunt; Kahlan turned her head and looked even more amused - Cara was holding her now bloody nose, having quite obviously walked into the wall instead out of the open cell door.
Maybe showing a bit of skin has its benefits.
Cara groaned and kept her hand to her nose, "wib yo'b neeb ebscob'd to'b the'b maim'b rebibence?"
Kahlan moved towards her after securing her sandals, forcing herself not to chuckle, "no... I can find my way. You should go and get food before training."
"Oka'b." Cara nodded her head obediently, turning to leave the small cell, "I wib see'b yo'b fo'b dibber?"
Kahlan nodded her head and planted a chaste kiss on Cara's cheek, handing her a scrap of cloth to clean her hand and face, "now, go beat up some poor fool."
Cara's lips twitched as she wiped her hand mostly clean and brought the cloth to her nose, wiping at her face, "Tha'b yo'b."
"Get that looked at?"
"Oka'b." Cara nodded her head, "Bu'b dab mea'b I geb to ebscob yo'b to'b the'b maim'b rebibence."
Kahlan couldn't hold back her laugh this time, "alright. Alright. Come on. Escort me to the main area and then go get your nose looked at... and get some food in you? You don't want to collapse from hunger."
"Oka'b!" Cara whined and held her non-bloody hand out for Kahlan to take, smiling when she did.
**************************************
Kahlan bit her bottom lip as the blonde servant with a braid as long as Cara's explained how to carry and serve the wine and food for Domina and how it was different when there were guests present. "Now... when Domina has a guest present you offer Domina the wine first... Domina's lover, and then the guest... it does not matter who they are or what their station in life is. Domina is your Mistress and she comes before all others. They do not provide you with food, shelter or clothing. Domina is the one who provides. Am I understood?" Kahlan nodded her head, nose scrunched as she continued to pay attention, "when you pour the wine you do so like this..." she watched Dahlia demonstrate as another slave held the wine class as Domina typically did, "now you try."
Dahlia watched with a critical eye as Kahlan took the jug easily from the stone table and mimicked her perfectly, pouring the wine gracefully into the glass, "wonderful.... now... you are going to pour the wine for Domina... I am going to serve the food, we will cover that tomorrow since you and I will be up in the balcony with Domina until she chooses to attend to any other matters. She has requested that you also be her personal servant... this is why I am training you personally. I am her personal servant, I have been for the last eight years and will continue to be until she has released me from my duties." Kahlan nodded her head quietly and held the jug of wine carefully.
They walked in comfortable silence side-by-side, Kahlan took in the feeling of cold marble on her now bare feet - she wasn't sure she would ever get used to it. They made slow progress, Dahlia would occasionally pause to tell another servant something to be added onto their current duties or to just greet them in general, introducing Kahlan politely to them.
"And this Berdine. She is Domina's bookkeeper and the resident historian, she keeps track of Domina's earnings, winnings... taxes to be paid to Rome... but if you need to know anything she can find the answer if it has been written down in a book at some point. Berdine, this is Kahlan, the new girl."
Kahlan bowed her head and smiled at the short woman clutching an armful of books with a journal resting on top of them all, "hello."
"It's a pleasure to meet you Kahlan. Normally I would shake your hand but..." she shifted the books up some, "they're kinda full. I'll speak to you properly at lunch." Berdine grinned before looking to Dahlia, "Raina said something about a foreign prince coming? Do you know anything about it? The gladiators only have speculations as to the identity of the prince."
Dahlia nodded her head and Kahlan paid close attention, if she was going to remain in this ludus as a servant until Cara paid off her debts then she was going to at least pay attention to the goings on. Especially when it came to foreign dignitaries - something she was raised to deal with. "Yes, she told me a Prince Darken from D'Hara is coming to stay for about a month. It is why the servants and slaves have had their workloads increase so much."
Kahlan's stomach twisted, she knew of Prince Darken - a cruel and twisted man so vile he made his father, Lord Rahl, look like a man worthy of godhood. The two servants continued to converse in whispers about the imminent arrival of Prince Darken and she forced herself to tune into the conversation.
“Domina mentioned he may be bringing Mord'Sith... as the heir to D'Hara he will need protection.”
Her jaw tensed at the thought of Mord'Sith being so near, she may have been raised by her father but she knew of Mord'Sith. The Mistresses of Pain were something not to be trifled with, but then again - neither was she.
“Do you know when he will be arriving?” Berdine inquired, biting her bottom lip as she looked at the taller, blonde woman.
“Sometime this week apparently. The guest chambers have been prepared for Prince Rahl, be sure to inform Raina that the majority of Mord'Sith will be remaining with the gladiators.”
Berdine pulled a face but nodded her head, “I'll make sure to tell her when we have dinner later, will you be joining us at our table in the dining hall?”
Dahlia shook her head, “no, I have to tend to Domina tonight. I will probably wind up having dinner in her chambers with her. She sent Richard to purchase new collars and new smithing tools. You know how she doesn't like an empty bed.”
“At least you'll be completely satisfied.” Berdine smirked and Dahlia let out a small laugh, a faint blush appearing on her cheeks.
“Are you implying that Raina does not satisfy you, 'Dine?”
Kahlan glanced between the two as they conversed, talking freely about their sexual endeavors in a semi-public venue. “Oh no. You know full well that Raina is quite superior in bed.”
“Well if the moans of ecstasy coming from the cell you two share are any clue, I should hope she is. Can you please inform me the next time you two plan to go at it all night and well into the morning? My cell is next to you two.”
Berdine rolled her eyes quite dramatically, shifting her books around, “oh like you can complain really. I heard Domina put you to bed when you showed up exhausted.”
Dahlia's cheeks tinted adorably and she turned her head away, her eyes landing on Kahlan whose face was as red as the deep red wine Domina tended to enjoy. She looked back to Berdine, “that was only because Richard was out and she had nobody in her bed the night before.”
“She favors you and Cara...” Berdine paused and smiled sweetly at Kahlan, “but the girl you're training is uncomfortable and you should probably get the wine and food to Domina before she gets grumpy.”
Dahlia smiled as she watched Berdine just about sip off down the hall towards her initial destination, “you don't have to look so uncomfortable you know. At some point you and Cara are going to end up having sex meaning everybody is going to hear.” She watched Kahlan turn redder and rolled her eyes, “you'll get used to it. Come on. Domina is waiting.”
Kahlan nodded her head and followed Dahlia closely, not wanting to get separated from the woman in the maze of halls and white marble. Domina apparently had a thing for white and red, all of the guards, servants and slaves tended to be dressed in whites or reds; her ludus was built from white marble with an unnatural red coloring decorating the stone - marring it like veins of red fire. When Cara had taken her from to her cell all those nights ago Kahlan had been fascinated with the way the fire from torches gave the red an eerie glow.
They made good time to the balcony and Denna turned her head for a few moments, taking in the two women standing there before looking back down at the pit. Dahlia placed the food within arms reach of her Domina, "I see Cara has yet to take you."
Her fingers slipped on the jug of wine and Dahlia just about flailed as she dove forward to catch it, landing hard on her knees but the wine was safe. "Do you know how much this wine costs?!" Kahlan's cheeks flushed with embarrassment and she lowered her head, "you're doing food next time. I'm not risking you dropping something so expensive or as delectable as this."
**************************************
Cara laughed as she gripped her twin, wooden short swords, the signature weapons of a Dimachaerius. She swung her arms slowly to warm up her muscles, glancing at Chase in amusement, "are you trying to tell me that your oldest daughter punched a Roman soldier in the market and he didn't demand she be punished?"
Chase nodded his head thrusting his trident slowly, "yes. He refused to admit that a woman broke his nose in a single punch. A slave girl at that."
"You must be so proud of Laura," Cara laughed as she moved a little faster, her muscles warmed up sufficiently.
"Oh I am!" Chase grinned and turned his practice trident it against the ground, cocking his head to the side, "so tell me, that girl that sleeps in your cell."
Cara shook her head, "not open for discussion. You know that Chase. We don't discuss your sexual endeavors with your wife, I don't discuss them with my..." she paused trying to find the right word for Kahlan, "my..." she was at a loss.
Chase clapped a large hand on her shoulder, almost knocking her onto the ground due to its unexpectedness, "your woman?" He supplied with a booming laugh and her blushed caused him to laugh harder, "the D'Haran blushes!"
"Oh shut up Chase." Cara muttered under her breath, straightening and glaring at him. Her eyes strayed over to the new slaves as they walked in a circle lugging large posts to build their stamina. "Poor bastards," she sneered feeling absolutely no pity for them.
"Alright. Alright. Adie wants your attention." Cara and Chase turned slowly towards the blind, old trainer, her hair sticking out at odd angles and her milky eyes scanning what she could not see. Raina approached them, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Cara as they waited respectfully for Adie to continue. "Today Adie wants you fightin' pairs you would not normally fight. It might be comin' in handy one day very soon."
"Oh and here I was hoping I could get you on your back again, Cara." Raina teased and Cara arched a brow, turning her head slowly to look at the other woman, "what?"
"In what world have you ever had me on my back?"
Raina's lips twitched, "well there was one time..."
Cara lifted her hand, cutting her off from speaking further, "not a word more, woman or it will be you and I practicing and I will not deafen my blows. No matter how hard Berdine would beat me after."
Raina puffed her cheeks out and crossed her arms over her chests, clutching her gladius, "are you implying that I've no way to defend myself and must rely on my woman?" She nearly flailed when Cara turned from her, without answering, "you cannot just state something like that and then walk away, Cara!"
Chase smirked and threw a large arm over Cara's shoulder, "come on, D'Haran. You and I will participate in this challenge."
Twenty minutes later found the hulk of a retiarius swinging his net, stepping methodically around as he tried to find a good time to throw it and knock his shorter, more agile opponent to the ground. He took a step forward and threw his net - begging the fates to let the net fall upon her. It did not and Chase groaned, gripping his trident tightly with both hands the man thrust forward a few times, aiming for different parts of her anatomy.
Her head turned up towards the balcony, something catching her eyes and drawing her attention away from the fight at hand. Chase took his chance, knowing she was most likely bluffing as he thrust forward, aiming for her face with his blunted weapon. The end slammed hard into her face and she went toppling backwards a few feet, blood spraying from her mouth and nose. Chase's eyes widened and he immediately dropped his weapon, moving towards his fighting partner as fast as he could, dropping to his knees next to her.
"Are you alright?" He breathed, bringing his hands to her face in order to inspect the injury.
Cara groaned in pain and turned her head, blood spilling from her mouth as she tried to push herself up, "that woman will be the death of me..."
Chase lifted his head, casting dark eyes towards the balcony where Cara's woman was leaning over, looking down at the pit with worry etched upon her features. He gave a hearty laugh and looked down at Cara, helping her stand and locking an arm around her waist, "careful there. Your woman might just kill you at dinner for giving her such a fright." He glanced back up in time to see a pale hand shoot out and grip Kahlan by her collar, tugging her back to the safety of the balcony - the arms of the dark haired woman flailing dramatically. "You may want to talk to your woman about hanging over balcony edges though... it's a long fall."
Adie was in front of them, cupping Cara's bloody face in her weathered hands - feeling around mercilessly to measure the damage. "Adie wants you to go see Giller. Get your face tended to little girl."
"Come on, D'Haran."
**************************************
Cara smiled sheepishly as Kahlan sat quietly next to her holding a plate of whatever the cooks had prepared as well as a cup of water. Kahlan placed her food down before lifting a hand and pressing her fingertips lightly to the bruising on Cara's face. "Are you alright?"
"Bah. I'll be fine." Cara grinned, scrunching her abused nose at the attention - grimacing when she did so. "I have had much worse."
Kahlan bit her bottom lip and lowered her hand to Cara's shoulder, "I don't care if you've had worse. I want to know if you're alright right now. It was a hard blow to your face."
Cara smiled softly and moved her hand to grasp Kahlan's, bringing it back up to her face, "I'm alright. I would not lie to you. I wish to build a proper relationship with you. My face is just a little sore."
"Careful Cara. The children will think you're weak." Raina warned, sitting on the bench in front of Cara and Kahlan followed quickly by Berdine.
A few other gladiators and servants joined them and Cara rolled her eyes, "if being cared for by a beautiful woman makes me weak then so be it. I will kill anyone who tries to take me down, certainly they must know this by now?" She wrapped a possessive arm around Kahlan's waist and grabbed her bread, taking a small bite from it.
Kahlan sighed and leaned into Cara some, taking a bite of her own food, "I never would have expected servants and slaves to have such expensive food provided."
"Oh, it isn't expensive. Domina has many trades going with surrounding farmers. This particular family provides meat for fresh water and salt. It all works out in the end. You are right, most slaves and servants live off of gruel and such but Domina is smarter than her father." Berdine smiled, taking a stab at the meat on her plate, "I must admit. It tends to provide our gladiators..." she paused to pat Raina's stomach affectionately, "a bit of an edge on the field."
"And off the field." Chase smirked, causing his wife and Kahlan to blush.
Cara nodded her head in agreement only to have something smack into the back of her head - she turned slowly and looked in the general direction of where the bit of bread had come from. Her eyes landed on a sneering, future gladiator - she removed her arm from Kahlan and stood, straightening her back.
The skinny little male paled slightly as the hall went silent, taking in Cara's slow and deliberate steps towards him. "Boy. Did you throw that at me?"
One of the others clapped his back and he nodded, "you obviously don't know who I am boy... maybe I should educate you a little. I am Cara. I have not yet lost a battle in eight years. I am the Domina's preferred gladiator. I highly suggest you apologize."
He stood, sweating stones as he tried to keep a straight face, "I was aiming for the other one though. Common whores should not eat with us."
Cara's eyes narrowed dangerously and she felt a rage build up inside of her, running at the table and stepping on a few backs in order to leap higher. She landed with ease on top of the table and grabbed him by his throat, using her weight to push herself off of the table and slam the boy's head into the wall opposite him. "I'm sorry. I didn't see your mother here. There are no whores in this hall." He struggled and she brought her arm up, pressing it hard against his neck. "I suggest you apologize."
"Screw you. I would never apologize for speaking the truth. They are obviously whores... dangling on the arms of gladiators." Cara brought her knee up and slammed it between his legs, smirking when he cried out in pain, "you whore!" He squealed, his voice breaking from the unexpected and unhealthy blow.
"I am no whore, boy... apparently you've had no women to know the difference? Whore's you buy by the night, sometimes the hour." She grabbed him by his hair and yanked, smirking as he fell to his knees, "I should kill you now, boy. You've insulted a number of people in this hall. Many of whom are my friends... but I wouldn't want to dishonor my Domina in such a manner or be the cause of more work for my friends and family."
"Be glad for your reprieve, Flynn. Sit." A man called and Cara smirked, nodding in agreement as she let him drop to the floor.
"Crawl back to your whore!" The boy snarled and Cara lifted her eyes, catching the flash of sadness cross over Kahlan's features. She would have to talk to her later about that, she should not take an insult from a mere boy to heart; however the flash of sadness was enough to enrage her further. Cara turned hard and grabbed Flynn by his face in her calloused hand, yanking him up in time to slam his skull into the wall behind him - a sickening crack echoed throughout the silent hall.
Cara's teeth clenched as she smashed the back of his head into the wall over and over again until he remained unmoving. She released his face but grabbed him by his throat, wrapping her arm around his waist to lift him onto her shoulder. Cara fully intended to dispose of the body, she would at least do that much thanks to the mess she had caused.
Talk started up as soon as Cara left the hall, making fast work of depositing him on the pile to be disposed of tomorrow over the seaside cliff a few miles from the ludus. Cara glanced towards the hall once the body was thrown and smiled when she saw Kahlan approaching, balancing a plate and two cups in her hands (the plate being considerably fuller with food for two people).
Kahlan gave her a small smile when she was close enough, "go wash the blood from your hands... I will be in your cell."
Cara smiled softly at Kahlan and nodded her head, "I will be there soon then."
Ten minutes of scrubbing at the washing basin left Cara heading towards her cell; she smiled when she saw Kahlan with her back on the wall, legs stretched out in front of her on the bedroll. Cara closed the cell door gently and slowly took her sandals and tunic off before moving over and sitting next to Kahlan, taking the offered cup and a bit of food from the plate.
"Thank you... for defending my honor. You didn't have to kill him though..." Kahlan whispered, turning her head and looking down at Cara.
"He would have died sooner or later. He was weak and arrogant. Only four of those ten new sacks of meat will make it through to being branded with Domina's mark. Nine sacks now."
Kahlan sighed took a sip of water, "I don't like it but I accept that you have to kill to live."
Cara placed her cup down and moved her hand to cup Kahlan's face gently, drawing her fingertips lightly across the delicate skin of her cheek. "You were sad... I saw sadness flash in your eyes. I had to make it right."
Kahlan smiled softly and her bit her bottom lip, looking from Cara's lips to her eyes before leaning in slowly; Cara leaned in the rest of the way and pressed her lips gently to Kahlan's drawing her hand lightly up to tangle in Kahlan's hair. She let Kahlan take control of the kiss not wishing to push Kahlan into anything she was unready for. The gladiator was mildly surprised when Kahlan moved and straddled her, hands resting on her shoulders - kissing her deeply (and possessively if she might say so herself). Cara's hands moved firmly to Kahlan's hips, holding her steady - her grip turned gentle as she caressed the lightweight cloth and Kahlan's sides.
After a few minutes Cara grunted, strong hands pressing her shoulders into the wall as Kahlan scrambled backwards, panting - chest heaving. Cara lifted her hand to the back of her head, feeling for any blood before looking incredulously at Kahlan only to have inky black eyes staring back at her.
"Kahlan?" Cara shifted to her knees and moved quickly, trying to touch Kahlan.
"Don't touch me!" Kahlan panted, scrambling back further.
Cara frowned and stopped, stomach twisting, "Kahlan... please? Talk to me. Tell me what's wrong. Do I need to get the physician? Giller is creepy but... he's good at what he does. Is it something I've done? Your eyes... why?"
Kahlan looked into Cara's eyes, slowly beginning to calm down, the darkness leaving her eyes as she continued to shake. "Cara..."
"Kahlan? Tell me... please... what is it? What's wrong?"
Kahlan continued to tremble, pressing herself against the opposite wall while she tried to get as far away from Cara as she could. "Please... just stay away. Don't touch me. It isn't safe."
Cara shook her head and moved forward again, pressing her lips gently to Kahlan's forehead. "I can't do that, Kahlan. I care for you and I want to know what's wrong..." the blonde whispered, maneuvering around to sit next to Kahlan again - pulling her gently onto her lap. "What was that? Your eyes. Why did they turn black?"
Kahlan tried to pull away but Cara just wrapped her arms tight around Kahlan's waist, holding her secure, "I almost destroyed you, Cara... please... leave me be."
"No. Tell me." Cara whispered, letting the tip of her nose brush against Kahlan's shoulder, "tell me everything. What are you? How can I keep that from happening again?"
Kahlan ducked her head forward and let her head rest against Cara's shoulder, she knew full well she would have no chance of getting out of the gladiator's firm grasp. Cara dragged her fingers slowly up and down Kahlan's side, drawing small, soothing designs into her skin. "I am from the Midlands... I am a Confessor... my father sold me to slavers to pay off a debt. Do you know what a Confessor is?" Cara shook her head quietly and Kahlan sighed, smiling lightly when Cara tightened her grip some, "we're an order of women. We have the ability to ascertain truth beyond all doubt... but the magic inside of us... when released... will destroy any person a Confessor touches at that time."
Cara's brows furrowed as she pressed her nose to the side of Kahlan's head, inhaling the scent of her hair, "it was something I did then? Something to make you react in such a manner?"
Kahlan straightened and shook her head, eyes widening in horror, "no... oh Spirits no. It... Confessors cannot... experience pleasure... without losing control of their magic." She lifted her hands to cup Cara's face hesitantly, "please... I would never do that to you."
Cara looked into Kahlan's eyes for a moment before starting to grin, "so... you're telling me I am that skilled of a kisser? To cause you such pleasures you almost... 'released'?" Her features soon turned smug as she kissed Kahlan's throat lightly - pulling her closer.
"Please... don't... tell anyone?" Kahlan asked after a few minutes of silence and Cara knew she was speaking of her being a Confessor.
Cara moved her hand, cupping Kahlan's face gently to look directly into her eyes, "I will not tell a soul..." the young woman vowed, pulling Kahlan closer, holding her protectively.
Kahlan moved down some and tucked her head under Cara's chin, "thank you..." she smiled when Cara's arms tightened around her waist.
"I don't care if you are a Confessor..." she brushed the tip of her nose against Kahlan's cheek, "the fates obviously wanted you with me. I will be your Champion." She left no room for discussion, "now... we've food to finish and drink to intake before bed." Kahlan's lips twitched at how fast Cara changed the subject from something so serious to a lighter matter.
**************************************
Denna groaned as sun light filled her bed chambers - and arm tightened around her waist and a pair of lips pressed into her chest. "Draw those back before I have you thrown into the pit," Denna snarled in her sleepy state. Her own arms tightened around the lithe body pressed into her and darkness surrounded them once more.
"Prince Rahl will be arriving today, we need to get up..." a soft, male voice breathed into her ear, stubble brushing against her shoulder.
Denna shook her head adorably and scooted away from the man, wrapping her arms tighter around the other woman in her bed. She looked down when her personal servant burrowed further into her and smiled, moving a hand to brush her fingers through the younger woman's blonde locks. "I will in a while. I wish to lie here with my mate and my pet." Denna muttered, rolling on her back and pulling Dahlia gently on top of her.
A sigh met her ears and she smiled when Richard pulled both her and a still sleeping Dahlia into his arms; Denna let her head drop onto his chest and closed her eyes. Nearly an hour passed before they moved again and even then it was Richard to climb out of bed, "I will have a bath drawn for us?" Denna burrowed back in under the sheets and pulled Dahlia closer, nodding her head in his direction. "Alright," he laughed and brought his hand to cup her cheek lightly.
Dahlia turned her head tiredly and pressed her mouth to one of Denna's breasts before forcing her head up to look at Denna's chin. "Did you sleep well?" Denna asked, brushing her hand gently over Dahlia's back.
"Mmm..." Dahlia nodded her head and pushed her nose into Denna's neck, inhaling slowly.
"Richard is drawing a bath... after I need you to send word to Adie that the gladiators are to wash and in the pit ready to greet our guest..." she smiled at Dahlia's prompt nod of her head, "and then you may come back and have a late breakfast with me." Dahlia nodded her head again and Denna stroked her back lightly before bringing her hand to the woman's backside and patting lightly. "Up. We don't want Richard contaminating the water. You remember the last time he jumped into the bathing pool, he bled out and it took forever to get it refilled."
That got Dahlia from her Domina's arms and scurrying through the chambers into the next room; Denna groaned in protest at the sudden lack of warmth before following her servant, attempting to stifle a laugh when she saw Richard and Dahlia already in the warm water glaring daggers at each other.
"I don't see how you think you are superior at keeping Denna warm. I am warmer than you therefore I keep her warmer." Richard muttered, bringing his hand up to wash a bicep.
Dahlia rolled her eyes, bringing her own hand up to wash her arm with the rose scented water, "but clearly I am superior at keeping her warm. I cling to her in my sleep therefore keeping her warm is what I am good at. She just rests her head on your arm."
Denna sighed and slipped into the water, "oh hush both of you."
"Yes Domina."
"Yes Denna."
"Richard. I want you to make sure everyone is where they are supposed to be when Darken shows up later. Make sure the guards have their armor shinned... Dahlia make sure the gladiators, servants and slaves are clean... and keep the wine flowing?" She sat upon a step and enjoyed the warmth of the water, eyes closing as she added her voice laced with boredom, "and keep an ear out. If any of his Mord'Sith or soldiers get rough with any of mine I want it reported immediately. I will have no gladiator too sore to fight in the arena and no servant seeing Giller from the kisses of Agiels or fists."
**************************************
Denna smirked as she lay on the bed, arms crossed behind her head comfortably with Dahlia straddling her hips - pale skin glistening with sweat, causing a bit of shine thanks to the sunlight pouring in. Dahlia licked her bottom lip and smiled sweetly at her with her arm raised, a single grape secured between her index and thumb. She lowered the grape to Denna's lips her sweet smile turning into a grin when her Domina took the piece of fruit between her lips. The free servant leaned down, placing her hands on either side of Denna's head to brace herself before capturing her lips.
A few minutes passed as Dahlia attempted to gain the upper hand in the kiss, attempting to steal the grape into her mouth as the kiss became a game. She felt Denna's strong hands on her hips and squeaked when her back hit the bed, officially loosing the grape to Denna. Her Domina smirked and moved her hands slowly over her pale arms, caressing the skin beneath her fingertips affectionately.
"Did you really think you could top me, Dahlia?" Denna asked, giving Dahlia a teasing smile as she chewed and swallowed the deep, purple grape in her mouth.
"Never, Domina." Dahlia pushed herself up on her elbows, leaning up more to kiss Denna gently - trying to convey her submission.
Denna returned the kiss slowly and used her body to get Dahlia's back on the bed, maneuvering her lower body between Dahlia's legs. Her hands trailed slowly down Dahlia's thighs and gripped her by her knees, pulling up gently - Dahlia got the idea and wound her legs around the other woman's waist. She leaned down and pressed her lips to Dahlia's throat, nibbling lightly and sucking - she intended to leave a love bite that would last a few weeks. The soft mewling sound that escaped Dahlia's throat gave her cause to push her hips down lightly, groaning when the cloth of Dahlia's simple dress blocked her path.
Why is my pet still dressed and I am not?
She made quick work of getting Dahlia's dress up and off, pushing it away as she leaned down to claim her mouth again. Denna pressed her hips forward and moaned, thoroughly enjoying the feel of being so intimately close to her pet. Dahlia closed her eyes and arched her back, tightening her legs around her mistress', "Domina? Would you like me to please you?"
Denna's lips twitched as she kissed her way from Dahlia's lips to her neck, "no..." she mumbled into the delicate skin, "today I please you." She moved around and slowly pulled Dahlia's legs from around her, protesting slightly at her own actions before bringing her hands to ghost over Dahlia's thighs.
"Domina..." the younger woman practically keened, her back bowing up in a perfect arch as nimble fingers brushed through her folds. Skilled fingers stimulated her clit and more fingers teased her slick entrance, "oh! Domina..." she choked out.
"Domina I have you-" a jar shattered and Denna's head whipped around, hair flying as she eyed the one who interrupted them. Kahlan stood there in her simple, white dress now splattered with red wine, feet covered by wine and bits of pottery. She felt sorry for the poor woman, her face matched the deep color of the wine; Denna took pity on her.
"Go clean yourself, Kahlan and fetch new wine... have it taken to the balcony. I will have the mess cleaned later."
"Yes Domina!" Kahlan squeaked and scurried off; Denna returned her attentions to a panting and oblivious Dahlia.
Denna's fingers twitched against Dahlia's clit and she slowly began to rub, pushing two fingers into her heated core; she began thrusting slowly, smiling as Dahlia's body responded like a finely tuned lute. It didn't take long before Dahlia broke beneath her, a cry echoing throughout the predominately white chambers. Her fingers slowed, bringing Dahlia down from her high gently before she pulled out. A tired smile was plastered on her personal servant as Denna pulled her into her arms, kissing the top of her head - wiping her fingers clean on the sheets.
"Food?" Denna asked softly, stroking Dahlia's heated skin slowly with the pads of her fingers; a tired nod against her chest was her only reply.
**************************************
Whack.
"Ow! What did you do that for!"
"Dahlia! Don't hit Cara's woman!"
"Kahlan, are you okay?"
"You broke a jug of expensive wine! In Domina's chambers!"
Kahlan blushed to the roots of her hair and nearly dropped her plate (which Cara quickly took in order to save the food), "yes... well... I did not exactly expect to walk in on... on..."
Dahlia glared hard at her, taking a long gulp of water from her cup before speaking calmly, "I am her personal servant. Did you expect anything different?"
"B-but... she was..." a soothing hand to the small of her back calmed her and Kahlan smiled gratefully at Cara, dropping the subject and returning to the previous one, "I was shocked is all. It won't happen again."
"It had better not. That was good, Roman wine." Dahlia muttered, crossing her arms over her chest.
Cara leaned towards Kahlan, handing her back her plate of food as she did so, "don't mind her. She's exceptionally skilled with wine. My mother taught her everything she knows." Kahlan gave her a confused look and Cara planted a small kiss on her shoulder, ignoring the "aw" from Berdine's direction, "I will explain tonight."
A young boy bounded into the dining hall and everyone looked in his direction, Flavius was Denna's messenger and errand boy, "Prince Rahl and his party have been spotted."
Everyone stood (Kahlan merely stood because Cara pulled her up) and moved towards the numerous openings in the hall, "you'll need to go with Dahlia. Try not to drop the wine." Cara teased and kissed Kahlan's shoulder again before pushing her gently towards Dahlia. Chase clapped his hand on her back and Cara nearly fell forward from the force, "Chase. Remember. I'm smaller than you."
"You fly farther!" He grinned and threw an arm around her shoulders, nodding to his wife and daughter as they went with the rest of the servants to attend to their stations in the House.
By the time the gladiators were suited in their varying types of armor, weapons of their trade in hand (and helmets in place for those who wore them) it was announced that Darken was at the gates. They rushed around, gladiators their of their own free will or loyal to their Domina making sure the potential gladiators and less scrupulous ones were on their best of behaviors. Ten minutes later found sixty gladiators in the pit, standing in perfectly straight rows of 10 - the best at the front, their armor shining brighter, sun-kissed skin glistening in the sun with sweat forming on their bodies.
Voice came close and the gladiators remained staring ahead, not daring to look up until they were told, "and these are my gladiators..."
Sixty voice rang out in unison with a single word, weapons raised in the air - most out of respect the rest out of fear, "Domina!"
Silence.
"Impressive, Denna... very impressive. Does your husband train them? I hear he is quite the warrior, this Richard."
"No. A free gladiator does, she has remained to train them."
"Ah..." the foreign Prince leaned over the balcony, elbows resting upon the marble - Cara spared a glance up, taking in the red and gold of his clothes.
So this is what a Rahl looks like.
She watched him survey the gladiators, "women too? I had heard you trained them but I merely though that to be jest."
Denna's eyes narrowed slightly but she plastered a fake smile on and turned her head to look at him, "the women are the best fighters... this House's Champion is Cara Mason." Domina pointed down at her and Cara raised her left hand, grasping her short sword tightly in respect for her Mistress and friend.
Darken nodded his head, clasping his fingers together under his chin as he continued to survey them all, "hmm... I have a proposition for you... the Mord'Sith and soldiers that have accompanied me will be getting bored without anything to do... why not have a few matches? Your best Gladiators against my Mord'Sith and men?"
Denna's eyes gleamed at the prospect of being able to show off the skill her ludus possessed but she was as smart woman, "we must discuss this in private..." she nodded her head down to the gladiators and they relaxed as Darken turned away, moving back into the large, white home.
**************************************
Berdine trembled as she knelt next to her Domina, watching her mate walk out onto the field holding her gladius tight in her hand, shield strapped to her left arm. The leather clad woman stepped out from the opposite end, Agiel strapped to her thigh, a confident expression on her features with promises of pain in her eyes. Richard stood, shooting a glare at Darken as he did so who shrugged it off, announcing for the spectators (consisting of gladiators, servants, slaves, Mord'Sith and soldiers).
"The Greek," he motioned dramatically towards Raina who kept her eyes on her opponent, "versus..." he glared down at the Mord'Sith, "a common Mord'Sith. Surely, surely our favored will win and bring glory to this House!" Cheers and shouts drowned out the catcalls and negative comments, echoing in the pit. "After ten minutes, whoever is left standing is the winner."
Berdine felt a gently hand on her head and looked up, smiling lightly at her Domina who gave her an encouraging look - petting her head lightly as she lifted her glass. Dahlia moved over and poured wine slowly, careful not to spill a drop; the hand moved to the back of her neck and massaged lightly, soothing her as she turned back to watch her lover.
"May Jupiter bless this battle. Begin!" Richard shouted and backed up to his seat, sitting down - he did not like putting the gladiators in unnecessary battles. It left more chance for one dying and he cared for the gladiators, quite a few were his friends - he trained with them in the mornings and ate meals with them on occasion.
Kahlan looked silently to Denna who glanced her way and nodded - she moved slowly towards Berdine and knelt next to her, wrapping an arm around her waist. The tiny woman leaned heavily into her, watching the fight begin to unfold with fear in her heart.
**************************************
Cara's teeth clenched as she and Chase stood shoulder-to-shoulder, both watching their friend as she neared the Mord'Sith taking in her movements and studying her. The woman had yet to draw her weapon and Raina was already on the defensive - shield raised slightly, ready to deflect if necessary.
"She'll be fine... she'll be fine..." Cara glanced up at the huge man, giving him a nod.
"Of course she will. She's one of the three best fighters here... and Berdine has been drilling 'tactics' into her brain for years. She knows what to do in any given situation."
"Hah, you're right. And she's Greek to boot, we don't fall easy... and this Mord'Sith is D'Haran, they fall easy..." he smirked own at her and she glared at him in a light hearted manner before looking back to the fight, blinking.
Raina was blocking a blow already.
**************************************
Raina grunted as the woman sank her Agiel into her shield, she could hear the scream of the weapon and her arm vibrated with dulled pain. She tumbled to the left and landed in a crouch, shaking her shield arm out slowly, she needed to end this fast for Berdine's sake. Her poor mate was probably going to be sick to her stomach if they went on much longer and they were only two minutes into the fight.
Eyes flicked from left to right as she studied her opponent's movements more, the single blow from the Mord'Sith left her shield arm weak and she certainly was not going to chance a second hit.
She needed to kill the woman.
Fast.
Her mind scanned everything Berdine drilled into her head over the last few years before she decided to take the woman by surprise and pray to the Gods that it was not her time. She still had to buy Berdine's freedom so they could get a small home in Greece by the sea like her lover dreamed of.
Before she had a chance to try and plan a way to surprise the dark haired woman, the Mord'Sith lunged and the Agiel met her shield once more. Raina cried out in shock and pain, the force of the tackle sending them both to the ground and gave her the advantage.
She was a grappler.
Raina let her sword drop and slid her arm from the leather straps of her shield in one motion, wrapping her body around foreign bitch. Thankfully Berdine could not read her mind; she would prefer not to get scolded for calling a woman a female dog just this once. The Mord'Sith was taken by surprise as she tried to roll around and get Raina off of her but as soon as Raina's legs locked around her body and her arm was secured around her throat she was done for.
Just forty seconds into getting choked out the woman held her hand up, begging for mercy and praying for air from the auditor of the match.
"That will take you to take on a Greek." Raina hissed in her ear and tightened her arm even more.
"Hmm... it would seem my Mord'Sith has been bested... she has dishonored me, let her go to the Keeper."
Raina looked at Denna, paying no heed to the spoiled Prince, "allow her to live, Raina." Raina nodded her head once and released the Mord'Sith from her vice-grip, allowing her to roll to the side - unconscious.
"I said let her die." Darken snapped and Raina smirked, watching her Domina stand and stare the noble down as though he were a bug in need of swatting.
"This is my ludus, Darken. I say who lives and who dies."
A/N: And now for Vocabulary -
Dimachaerius: the singular of Dimachaerii, these fighters use two short swords (think Sparty or Ganicus).
Retiarius: the singular of Retarii, they fight with a trident, dagger and net and are pretty much naked save for a loincloth held in place by a wide belt and a large arm guard extending from wrist to shoulder and over the chest a bit (think Barcca but substitute the spear for a trident).