Step 14
Enosh and Sergius faced each other across a small table. Sergius picked up a date stuffed with almond paste, examined casually, and then popped it into his mouth. Lounging in his chair, he eyed Enosh waiting patiently. Enosh ate several dates rapidly, considering his options. “Well,” he said, “I suppose the price is acceptable.”
“I expect so,” Sergius mused, “I have little problem finding customers. Of course, if you’d rather wait for a while, I’ve always got new merchandise moving through. It’s your choice.”
“No, I think these two will do. Here’s your money,” Enosh replied, shoving a small bag across the table. It clinked and shifted as he shoved it.
“Stay for a mid-day meal,” Sergius waved a languid hand toward the dining area, “My cook is quite good.”
“No, thank you. I must get home with these slaves. I need to have the young man ready to join the flocks tomorrow and I want to introduce the young girl to Avishag. That will be a bit tricky.”
“Are you sure? Cook has some fresh Stripped Mullet to grill. They are quite good.”
Enosh mused for a few moments, considering his options. “No, thank you. I really must get these new servants settled.”
Nuria glanced at Timur, eyes wide with fear and red-rimmed from crying. Her hand stole into his. “I’m scared,” she whispered, “What if I don’t like my master?”
“That doesn’t matter,” Timur whispered back, “Just be thankful to Adoni that we have the same master. That is a blessing.”
“I know,” she replied, chin quivering and tears leaking out of the corner of her eyes, “But I’m still afraid.”
Timur squeezed her hand, “Be brave. That’s all we can do. Be brave.”
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