Nicon

Phrynus no longer saw the hours but only counted strokes, a part of him watchful for any slow down; Nicon and the zygites were continually dropping off this punishing pace.

The One Handed Rower of Myonnesus « A Fly in Amber 2009

He was surprised to find Carpides and Nicon there, too.

The One Handed Rower of Myonnesus « A Fly in Amber 2009

Nicon called at the sense of it and the rest hurrahed and backs were slapped and hands clasped and, yes, there were still hard feelings, but those would be paid later, individually.

The One Handed Rower of Myonnesus « A Fly in Amber 2009

“And I see you have not gone up,” Phrynus replied, which got several others laughing through the two decks, a baleful look from Nicon, and probably a good defecation on his shoulders later.

The One Handed Rower of Myonnesus « A Fly in Amber 2009

Nicon blinked, “A bet?” and he looked among his fellows, the shared avarice lighting their eyes.

The One Handed Rower of Myonnesus « A Fly in Amber 2009

Phrynus watched them carefully, saw Nicon and the others exchange glances then pick it up a bit.

The One Handed Rower of Myonnesus « A Fly in Amber 2009

Nicon gritted his teeth and Phrynus felt it, the sudden lurch in speed.

The One Handed Rower of Myonnesus « A Fly in Amber 2009

He looked at Nicon and his worried zygites, the triumphant thalamites, and the impassive thranites, who waited for the inevitable battle.

The One Handed Rower of Myonnesus « A Fly in Amber 2009

“Bear with me,” Phrynus whispered back, and then called out to Nicon, “Well?”

The One Handed Rower of Myonnesus « A Fly in Amber 2009

“You get a feel for it, the rhythm,” Phrynus said and set his oar and began to match the strokes of Nicon above him.

The One Handed Rower of Myonnesus « A Fly in Amber 2009