Redsand Canyon ornatus

the girl dropped. her teeth scored his chest.

germanicus released her with an approving growl.

"be quick to rise. this position leaves you very vulnerable."

but their sparring today could be ended. he signalled this with a wave of his plume and stepped back, inviting malila to rise.

"you did very well for this first time. you will have much soreness for the next days."

his gaze was appraising. "when you have recovered, seek me again. tell me your decision: will you join the auxillia or will you remain a plebian?"

the question was rhetorical for now. the eagle did not want an answer.