Quoted By:
To refuse a king’s generous offer is unwise, even if you do not have all the information – whatever mystery lies at the heart of Peleus’ strange behavior will have to be explored later. Today, you have an opportunity to accomplish your goal and strengthen your estate guard with a doughty contingent of Peleus’ own Myrmidons. Additionally, there is the promise of a continued relationship with one of the most powerful men of Hellas, a person who would be entirely out of reach to a noblewoman of your lowly status… You simply must accept this bargain - the benefits are too great to ignore.
Of course – an assistant would be very helpful. At minimum, a herbalist trained in the collection and preservation of medicinal herbs would reduce the time you spend tramping through your own back-country…
“I accept, High King Peleus. But if I could make one additional request – a junior priestess or physician to support my efforts and ensure a steady flow of my tonics and tinctures to your palace.”
“Then it is agreed!” Peleus takes a small step backwards, inclining his head carefully in a polite nod. The light streaming in from the closest window strikes him oddly as he does so - his sunken eyes are suddenly shadowed. They unnerve you – shining with black ambition. Your witch's sense tells you that some darker and more youthful part of Peleus has reawakened, now that a fragment of your divinity temporarily commingles with his blood.
It occurs to you that you now stand alone with a man who has repeatedly murdered his own kin. You do your best to steady your nerve, smiling blandly as you nod in turn.
Peleus advances to his door, and with a quick set of commands, silences the musicians, directs you from the room, summons Phoinix and provides this directive:
“Phoinix, bring the Lady Deianira Hippomedion to the training yards. One of the new lieutenants should serve her needs, I am sure.” Phoinix hesitates almost imperceptibly, his gaze lingering on the more-youthful coloration of his lord but is very quick to guide you along.
Behind you, Peleus shuts and bars the door unceremoniously – without even a farewell.
<span class="mu-i">Well done, ‘Nira!,</span> your brother whispers. <span class="mu-i">Let us hope that you stay in his good graces…</span>
At your request, you collect Argyros from the front of the palace – his counsel will be needed to select his replacement. Phoinix makes little conversation along the way, and Argyros, finding the mood pensive, says nothing as well. As for yourself – a creeping doubt has begun to infiltrate your thoughts - was this truly the right choice?
Entering the expansive training yards abutting Peleus' palace under an autumn sky, you are confronted with a busy scene - legions of Myrmidons in various groupings practice their individual and squadron tactics.
>cont
