“You think this is tough, you haven’t seen what kind of gymnastics your masters will expect of you. Concentration!” she thwacks my ass because I break form. “When you’re pulling pony carts or pretending to be furniture for the amusement of your owners, you can’t afford to make such goofs.”
I’m even more embarrassed as I look to my left seeing Broc attentively watching the proceedings. He only makes it worse; it’s a matter of pride to do well in his presence.
The sadistic Carlotta is even more inspired by his presence. She’s showing off, stretching our endurance beyond what is humanly possible—from my humble, slavish point of view. After a brief rest, while she confers with the Colonel, I’m returned to the straight-leg position with my palms on the floor. The ache in all my limbs is inst
