"It is with great pleasure that I introduce to you not one, but two new arrivals here at Agia Triada; Nikolaos Artistides, who is with King Darius, and Katanira Theocritos, who is with Queen Ranae." I pause momentarily as those gathered acknowledge the newcomers. "I hope you will all help me in making them feel welcome!"
The steward approaches and catches my attention. I lean down so that he may tell me his news. Standing back up straight, I again address the group.
"I have just been informed that dinner is served. So, whenever you are all ready, you may proceed to the dining hall."
After a few moments of watching the small crowd starting to mingle again to welcome the newcomers, I step down and approach Ares.
"Shall we?" I ask and he offers me his arm in answer.
"Where are we to dine this evening?" he asks.
"We are to dine just off the courtyard in a nice, quiet alcove," I respond as I lead him in the opposite direction from everyone else. "I do not know about you, Ares, but I am looking forward to being out of the crowd," I confess to him wearily.
The Formal Welcome
The Isle of Crete
(5 threads, 1403 posts)
The Royal Villa of Agia Triada
(251 posts)
so much for pretending
