<span style="font-size: 15px"><span style="font-family:Open Sans">Altair wasn't expecting the quick succession of the next few strikes, and the second one to fall silenced his scream. His body twisted in agony, and bile rose in his throat, nauseous once more as he was assaulted with pain. Cygnus was speaking, and it took Altair a few precious seconds to understand the words.<br/>
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Count? How could Cygnus expect him to count out his punishment? His education had no pertinence to the matter. If this went on long enough, Altair doubted he would be able to state his own name. Still, he feared what would happen if he did not. How many times had he been struck so far?<br/>
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“Five.. that was,” his voice faltered, unsure for a moment. “Five.”<br/>
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Only five. He was only halfway, and he didn't see how he might endure the second half of his punishment. Instead, he decided to try another tactic. He knew many were watching, and maybe Cygnus would be lenient on him if he helped to make this all more of a show.<br/>
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“Please, <i>master</i>, I have had enough.” It was a highly calculated statement, emphasis used on the word master, something he hadn't called Cygnus before. Maybe it would appease him, especially with the crowd. Maybe it would make him feel powerful, so that he didn't feel the need to continue this display of dominance.</span></span>