Everyone knew that being chosen by the slave master meant a welcome respite from the long hours of marching; the fortunate women chosen for his personal use, to ease the rigors of the journey, were most magnanimously allowed to ride on the wagons. They were well fed, and well treated. Because their master insisted on cleanliness, they were given the opportunity to bathe frequently. And though they, like the other slaves, were kept naked when in camp, they were allowed to be groomed, and to partake of cosmetics and scents that might serve to increase their appeal to their master. It was these slaves that were so generously shared with local dignitaries, who were given special invitations to visit Kimar’s tents.
Once we were ensconced on the couches, and equipped with cups of wine, a handfu
