There were dancers, at least a dozen of them, draped loosely in silks of gold and rich green, ribbons of fabric that swayed as they swayed, dipped as they dipped, and fluttered about them as they spun. Along walls and in corners, on tables and among revelers, they danced in time to a rhythmic tune—singly and in pairs and trios, all moving with an agile grace, seducing guests with limber acrobatics and inviting smiles.
I'd heard of such slaves, but had never before seen them. Their grace entranced me. Theirs was a skill …show more content…
The King clapped his hands again, and the hall fell silent.
"The next performance," he said, "in Lord Nygell's honor, to celebrate his newest diversion…"
I moved not a muscle, feeling sure that eyes were upon me, but sensed the master's leg tense beside me. I kept my head bowed, trying to make the best of impressions.
The King's tone took on amusement, although with a bite of acid. "…perhaps this will prime him to make good use of the rest of the night." And then, having gotten a round of ribald laughter and a stiff nod from my Lord, he sat.
They were brothers, slim, strong, and brown from the sun. Identical in aspect, with golden brown eyes, expressive mouths, and thick wheaten hair that fell about their faces in youthful exuberance. Tribal designs had been painted on their torsos and limbs, and lengths of blue ribbon attached their ankles and wrists. Nothing else adorned them, save the bands about their cocks, keeping them swollen and