Editing Character Vignettes (section)

=='''A Warrior Named Phillipi'''==

The sound of swords clashed in the training field as the young Spartan warriors sparred with each other.  All of the trainers eyes were on a certain match..  Parathias was a solid fighter but it was the new recruit who was getting all of the attention.  This recruit was named Phillipi.  He had excelled in his Krypteia and killed many helots.  He was a rising star.

''Clang, clang!'' The sound of the swords became more violent as Parathias and Phillipi faced off.  Phillipi was calm as Parathias lunged in with a clumsy move.

''This fool thinks he can win?'', Phillipi thought this as he parried the blow easily.  Phillipi continued to force the sword downwards.  He looked into Parathias' eyes and then, with his opponent's sword trapped, hit him with a devastating backhand.  Parathias stumbled backwards and dropped his sword.  Phillipi gave no respite as he dashed forward with uncanny speed and struck his target with the hilt of his sword right in the gut.  Parathias doubled over on his knees, the ability to breathe escaped him for a moment.  

"Stop!"  The command came as Phillipt's sword was a mere wisp away from Parathias' throat.  The trainer was not going to let Parathias die today.  His father was an ephor and he had earned the right to die in glorious battle. Not to mention the political power his father wielded. Phillipi though, his skills were almost god-like. It was like watching Hercules himself!  

"Against me, you will always die." Phillipi said flatly as he extended his hand to the man.  Parathias brushed aside his hand and stood with his own power.

"We will see about that!", said Parathias, "Do not be overconfident."

It was true though.  At the age of eighteen, Phillipi was better than soldiers who have served for years.  Parathias would never stand a chance but his Spartan pride would not let him submit.  Phillipi needed a challenge.  Killing helots was easy sport to him.  He did not want easy, he wanted to fight to the death.  The sound of the trainer's voice interrupted his thoughts.

"Phillipi!  Come with me son.  Parathias, go get some rest.  It was a good match boys.  You both are fine Spartans"

"Yes sir!" The two responded at the same time. Phillipi looked at pathetic Parathias as he walked towards the trainer.

''Fine Spartan indeed.  By the blood of Hercules, you hardly make a good sparing partner.  You'll be dead soon enough.'' He didn't even think about what the trainer could want with him as the left the field.