The messenger who came to the door was one of the prettiest boys Macro had ever seen, but his manner was thoroughly professional, and in no way seemed to notice Macro's stare.

"A letter for the Lady Messalina Terentius, from Lycon Leukippos," the boy said quietly. "I am to wait for an answer."

Macro nodded, and took the scroll into his mistress...once again his eyes lit up at seeing her, as they did at every instant of the day. Messalina took the scroll off-handedly...was it from Sextus, already?

The writing was unfamiliar, but the name was not--this man was known to host some of Pompeii's best, and wildest--parties.

To Lady Messalina, Greetings:
I am pleased you are back in town--and I'd like to invite you to a dinner with entertainment at my suburban villa. The time will be sunset, day after tomorrow. You may bring a guest of your choosing, or may depend on me to provide suitable arrangements.

I promise you, there is a special surprise which you may find most amusing! Lycon Leukippos

Messalina rolled the scroll up again, tapping it against the palm of one hand absently...