I watch as he notices me but moves onward... it is just as well for I should not let on that I have done anything that would be considered strange. Father comes and speaks to me, "Already setting my eyes to men? You must be mistaken, I only noticed the markings upon his uniform.... is that part of a larger fleet?" The older man smiles at me, thinking I have taken interest in such things as this. He begins into one of his long lectures on nautical adventure and I am given time to consider what I shall do on the long voyage.

"Whom will I travel with father?" I break into his tirade with a sigh of agrivation. I have always been terrible at hard trips without company... and I know that I shall have nothing to say to another of his friends from his duties. I am nearly speechless at his answer.

"That ship, father?" I look to the one I had seen a two young couples join as well as the man from the tavern. I suddenly feel ill as he tells me whom I shall have for traveling companions. "The Princess and Prince of Crete? Father do you believe I am prepared for such company?" I give him a frightened glance more concerned about being trapped on that crate with a spatting couple than the noble birth.

He laughs at me and says I have matured far beyond what he remembered and perhaps it is time that I join persons of my own age. He kisses my cheek and tells me that he has spoken with Lady Lousia and that I shall stay with her until he comes. I smile when he speaks that perhaps it is my chance to settle anew.

"I will not soil your good thoughts of me, father." I say giving him a tight squeeze for I have been longing to break away from his work and close watch. The Goddess has heard my prayers... I am given my chance. He sends me with my companion to join the ship.

The first mate gives me a curious expression until I speak , "I am Megara Artistides, widow of LuciusSesto Manlius." He nods and allows us to pass. Livia is staying close to me holding our things as I look about the ship with calm in my gray eyes that I do not feel.