"You weak sack of shit!" Barak barked, but Ezio had picked his side now and there was no going back. Ares looked at Gino and Tycho, and the fact that they hadn't immediately returned to his side once Barak was rumbled would not be forgotten.
"Half an hour. Everyone better be there. Everyone." Ares finally turned his attention to Tragos and Marcie. "You two come with me. Now."
His tone brooked no argument. Marcie picked up her bag and stepped quickly forward, not waiting to see if Tragos was following. She was very eager to no longer be in the same room as these four creeps.
Ares lead them silently, neither asking for nor giving any explanation, just marching down toward the arena. Sparta followed behind, watching the two with baleful eyes, indicating that there was very little choice in this matter. Marcie almost stopped when Ares banged through the doors she'd been turned back from last time, but Ares didn’t hesitate so she followed on.
"Stand there. Wait." Ares pointed at the empty dais once they reached the sandy floor, and didn't stop to make sure they did. He gave Sparta a sharp whistle, and the dog took up a guard position as Ares disappeared through the smaller door into the barracks.
Marcie stood still, looking at the dog, who looked neither friendly or not, but like he intended to prevent them leaving, and anyone else coming close.
"Tragos," she said, her voice almost a whisper. "What is happening?"