When they had halted, Urim spoke, addressing his words to Vulcar.
"Is this the prowler you captured in the slave quarters?" he asked, indicating Tharn.
"It is, O Urim."
The ruler's eyes shifted to the stiffly erect figure of Katon. "Why have you brought this man?" he demanded.
"The prisoner has been troublesome," explained Vulcar. "Since Katon seems able to manage him, I brought him along."
Urim's face lost some of its good nature. "Well, Katon," he said coldly, "I have not forgotten you. Do you find the pits more to your taste than being in charge of the quarry slaves?"
Katon's face was without expression. "Both places have their good points, O Urim," he replied evenly.
Urim scowled. "Let me remind you the Games are not far away. I doubt that you will find many good points there—unless they be fang points!"
He turned back to Tharn. "What were you seeking in Sephar, forest-man?"
"I came here for my mate," Tharn said briefly.