As the hot sun of Rome’s summer beats down two gladiators lie in a tumbled heap on the sand of the arena. One is senseless as a result of a swift kick deep into the groin that has felled him – which was just what his opponent intended. Now, however, he lies fallen atop that same opponent – which was not. With a great effort from his prone position he slowly heaves the heavy and inert body from off himself, and lies back, soaked in sweat and panting with the effort. And, while this move amuses them awhile, already the crowd are yelling, demanding more, discontented to see these two warriors apparently taking a rest and denying the mob the fight it has come to see. But, for the moment, neither gladiator feels able to rise and continue. Even as he comes around again the northerner lies with heaving chest, dragging air painfully back into his lungs and all-too aware of the throbbing tenderness between his thighs. The Gaul is barely in better state – but makes the effort to wipe the sweat from his brow and rise unsteadily to his feet. Moments later he is knocked off them again, tackled suddenly from behind by the Teuton – and at once the crowd roars with approval, for the fight is on once more!
‘Now,’ says the Consul, smiling at the girl sat by his side, ‘now we shall see some sport! Now the entertainment will truly begin!’
So - welcome to the second month of 2022; as always, many thanks to all patrons for the support which is so much appreciated. You can be sure that I have a fine series of plentiful posts prepared for this month, with much more from He-Man and his demonic tormentor, from Sephy and Cloud, from our Mediaeval swordsmith and Piers the page and - as you can see from above, our hunky and sweat-sheened gladiators who kick off February for us.