I have never known my mother to be sick a single day in her life. It must be that she has not been taking care of herself as she usually does. Circumstances of late have been most extraordinary for all of us, but especially her. I pray to the goddess that this will quickly pass.

Lord Ares comes in and immediately places himself near the window. It seems as though that is his favorite place.

"Mother, why is it that Lord Ares always looks so uncomfortable?"

She looks at me and says quietly, "He is more accustomed to being on his own estate, in less formal surroundings. I do not think he has ever stayed around a royal palace for more than a day. He usually conducts his business and is gone in short order." She glances over at Lord Ares and then her gaze takes in the rest of the room. "Ranae, there is Lady Talis. The young lady with her must be the one I was telling you about earlier. You should go introduce yourself. It will be good for her to get to know people close to her own age."

"Will you be okay?"

"Yes, I promise. Go on now."

I glance at Darius who nods his head, indicating he will stay near Mother to see to her well being.

"Hi! I am Princess Ranae," I say rather informally as I come up to Talis and Katanira.

Talis laughs. "Queen Ranae," she emphasizes, "May I present Katanira Theocritos."

"Pardon me. I still have not gotten used to using my new title. It may take me some time," I tell them both with a smile. "It is very nice to meet you. So, what brings you to Agia Triada?"