End Chapter 4

     Refreshed, dressed and ready for the bright new day, Queen Sparta and King Therakles entered the crowded Great Hall, where all there did rise and shout cheers of adulation as the newly crowned monarchs came into together, hand and hand, with smiles of delight upon their shining faces contented in the show of love from their friends and extended family.Gathered were those who had been issued a private invitation to come and dine at the Palace, whom were seated at the long tables laden with a feast of roasted lamb, grilled beef with sauteed peppers and onions, fresh baked breads with honey and butter, figs, dates, apples, pomegranates, a variety of cheeses, hot wine mulled with spices and mixed with spring water to help keep out the chill of winters grip along with the two roaring fires keeping the room warm and filled with light.
     These gathered together then were the men and women whom had all known Queen Thera and King Vyakles and had also suffered much with them, along with their offspring; whom were all the spawn of the last breeding campaign of the Royal House of Themiscyra. Those, said sons, who grew up alongside Queen Thera and King Sparta, were cherished by both, of whom they were well pleased. It was a loving tribute to the memory of their departed parents. Well, it was, and a joy filled the monarchs mighty hearts as they gazed out across the tables to see those shining happy faces of those so beloved unto the hearts of the King and Queen. For this group of people were all Therakles and Sparta really had left of a family. For it was these brave and gracious ladies assembled here, who raised up Sparta and Therakles as if they were their own children, being mothers to them when their own was so brutally murdered. There was Ambassador Lacuna, wife of Fleet Commander Vasha along with their son Vasho, to their right sat Ambassador Lucia Vega and her husband General La Quint and their son Vego, those two young Captains close friends to King Therakles. Next was Councilor Johanna, wife of Theo, Katara and Temenos, La Scoffa and Nava, Jessa the Physician, wife of Admiral Vinici, Anaias husband of General Scotia still at the ongoing Siege of Thebes along with General Iona whose husband, War Councilor Tyrinthos sat beside Ambasaador Ia, who was accompanied by her husband Kias whose son Ios shared a smile with the couples son Kai. There were also the sons Tyrenos, Savas, Nathan, Naffa, Nostaro, and Raio. Here also Captain Sinos was invited to join the feast for he too was part of that first bred spawn of the Nation of Themiscyra and the Nation of Sparta.
     So greetings and salutations issued up from the some thirty guests joined their in remembrance of the late king and much praise and many stories were served up along with the delicious food and drink. Then the conversation turned to, as often in a warrior culture, the battle and the ongoing siege.
     "We have beaten our enemies into submission on the field of battle! We shall besiege Thebes, and starve out her desperate people! We shall destroy that hated city with fire cleansing her from the face of the earth!" King Therakles shouted across the table over the many voices; which created a loud noise and, for poor Queen Sparta, this did little to benefit the aching in her head, though she smiled politely showing no sign of ill-ease or discomfort. Talk of war brought those young officers and captains who had been recalled, briefly, from the theater of war for the day, to begin regaling all with stories of the bloody battle and Queen Sparta, herself, had many tales she could tell, as well, but she was content to sit back and listen today, a rare occurrence.
     Here the discussion turned to the Macedons and their tyrant king, as Fleet Commander Vasha spoke in a deep voice, his face worn from a lifetime of ocean salt and harsh sea winds "King Phillip has taken the whole of Greece by surprise and I, myself, am shocked. For, in such a short time upon the throne, he has somehow managed to pull that backwards nation of his together, and amass a vast army, new weapons and a new style of formation fighting." he shook his head scratching is black and white beard.
     "It would seem he has set his heart upon conquering the world." Queen Sparta sighed eating a little food for the benefit of her stomach.
     "Perhaps it is time we consider fortifying the city, as well as those cities of our allies in the region." King Therakles broached the subject; which was seldom discussed with any favor or fervor, as the city had never any need for walls due to the might of the invincible Spartan Army which had kept her citizens safe for over a thousand years. Yet well King Therakles knew, and had seen first hand for himself, that this was a different day and age, the world was changing. Alas the King's comment went unanswered and mostly ignored.
     Queen Thera spoke as if her brother had merely cleared his throat "How is it, indeed, possible that Phillip has taken those.., elitist, wine swilling, layabouts, sons of the aristocracy and shaped them into such a fearsome fighting machine? For this horde, of his, lacks any real sophisticated training or military strategy. The Macedonians are not a warrior class of people, such as ourselves."
     "He has called up the huge population of farmers, labourers, slaves, any young man old enough to hold a sword and shield are said to be conscripted into his army, on pain of death. They are poorly trained.., yes, however they are vast in numbers." Ambassador Lacuna answered the young Queen's query.
     "Our spies have sent word this morning, that Phillip has joined his forces, some 30,000 men on the northern border of Thrace, rich with its silver and gold mines deep in the mountains. Perhaps he will busy himself with an invasion into old King Sunders territory, and remain out of the Peloponnese, so that we might have a little peace." Ambassador Lucia Vega informed the intrigued monarchs.
     "Well..," King Therakles smiled with a gleam in his eye "once we have reduced their friend, and ally, Thebes to the scorn and shame of history, then our message shall be made as clear as crystal when Thebes has been burned to the ground!" he said pounding his fist on the table.
     "Ah..," Queen Thera closed her eyes, seeing a picture clear in her mind, stating "I foresee.., that glorious day, not far off, when the elderly  will be left starving, abandoned in blood soaked clearings, quietly weeping for the dead as the children wail with grief in the sight of that city Thebes which lay in ruin. Blood, bones, smoke and ash shall be all that remains. The ruins of the ancient city will serve as a mass open grave! All this killing will be done so willing in the name of brave King Vyakles!" here uproarious cheers rose up from the guests as Queen Sparta stood to her feet her heart racing, the urge to return to war becoming overwhelming.

Chapter 4 continues

     "Do you realize how you behaved last night?" her brother spoke in harsh tones, chastising his sister "Drinking, dancing, flirting with our soldiers!" he glared at her as if she were a dog being scorned by it's master "What a colossal embarrassment! Then to find you here thusly embraced with Captain Sinos!"
       "You have come to correct my ill behavior? Oh dearest brother of what do you speak?" Queen Sparta replied in a calm clear voice as not to agitate her brother, the king, any further for well she knew Therakles to be deeply disturb in his spirit his entire life, so she knew when best to tread lightly on any matter between them capable of provoking jealousy, anger or rage. "For you forget I am soldier, freshly returned from battle on pain of the death of my father. I am a warrior, you will find to your great displeasure I, myself , am not as well behaved and refined as those fine Greek ladies of the elite houses of Athens or Sparta whom send you love letters daily. Here you know I am overcome with much grief, shock and sadness for the loss of our father, the funeral, the entombment. So perchance you might see clearly now in your memory, to your embarrassment of which you did speak. Yes, I did bade myself to drink, and laugh, and dance and be light of heart on such a dreary night. Yes, I did fill that empty space in my soul with the spirit of the vineyard, if not for one night so that I might forget the trouble of my heart for one blessed minute. Above all this, the torment of my very soul, you come to chastise me, for my transgression to pain myself further with the sharpness and sting of your tongue, all for this, over the sake your embarrassment? Am I not allowed to share in any fun, if not to console my disheartened self? Were my actions so detrimental.., that I am not to be allowed any modicum of forgiveness, my dearest, only brother?" she responded in a voice that was sweet and kind, gazing into his dark, piercing eyes.
     Just for a moment King Therakles stood there in silence seeing his mothers face reflected in his sisters calming presence and grace, quelling the fire in his thoughts, briefly "Yes." he sighed placing his hands on her shoulders "I suppose I can understand, for you are under the pressure and sheer duress of our tragic circumstance, however.., Sparta, dearest most sacred sister, you are NOT an officer anymore! For our nation summons you to a higher calling, for the benefit of Greece and all her people. Chosen by birth under the divine hand of the Fates! You are a Royal Person, ruler of the greatest civilization of warriors on the face of this earth! So please, for the love of country, try to act like it!"
     "Blessed are you, whom the gods have granted the gift of understanding." she said embracing him close to her as she kissed him gently upon the cheek.
     "Yes, alas, save your kisses for there is still one more, troublesome, thing." he pushed her back with a serious look on his face. "There is one matter for you to resolve now, clearly and distinctly, in your heart and mind before we walk out of this door together, after you have been made ready in a little while"
     "Matter.., what matter?" Queen Sparta asked her worried mind not quite yet soothed.
     "You and I are to rule together as one united front standing against all enemies both foreign and domestic. I, ruling as King. You, serving as Queen. So it is of utmost importance that you must always remember, you must never forget.., you, yourself, are meant to rule OVER your body guards and never lie UNDERNEATH of them!" he chastised her further "Keep your dear Captain Sinos at a safe distance, for he is nothing more than a servant in uniform, you must rule over them all completely, our soldiers, our generals, our people, our servants, helots, our farmers and slaves. We shall rule over all of them in peace, and treat them accordingly!"
     Sparta was greatly displeased by her brother's discourse and his wild assumptions about her character, so she clearly stated her displeasure in his view of this, the matter of a little kiss. "You, dearest brother, it is you who must remember, and never forget, you are the king of this great nation, but you do not rule over myself." his sister spoke in a whisper as tense as wire, then breathing in deeply to calm the rapid beating of heart, she said with a look of sadness in her bright green eyes. "You speak of Sinos as if he were a stranger unto us.., for is it not true that he has served as a respected friend to our family? His mother, General Scotia, his father, War Councilor Anaias, both beloved of our mother and father? Was it not he grew up alongside us for the first years of life, born of the same race, at the same time, under the same circumstance, just as we. We, who first knew life sheltered on the island of Hera, together we played and were afraid together long before our own dear father set his eyes upon us, and came to love us. US! You and I, together forever! A covenant between us sanctified by our own blood, sweat and tears." she gently reminded him whispering in his ear "Nothing can come between us."
      "Together forever." he smiled for the first time that day.
     "So please, employee your great powers of understanding, secure in this knowledge to hold safe in your heart, that your sister, after all, is only human being, a mere mortal. Alas, for the sake of sanity, I need to have few friends for a bit of company. This is why I have appointed Captain Sinos to this position, here to watch over me with the promise of security and protection. For so it has come to pass that I am to have the never ending presence of body guards, guarding my doors and windows, lest I be tied up taken away to be held for ransom or worse, assassinated."
     "You shall NOT!" he exclaimed.
     "Do you know, when I remained with father in the palace, when you went away for military training in the Agoge when you were seven, when I was left alone there, without you, it was for three long years I lived my simple life under the guards constant protection.., every hour of the day and of the night?"
     "I did not ever wish to leave you behind." her brother tenderly replied.
     "Nonetheless.., at first I felt quite safe after my brutal ordeal at the hands of the traitor Odessa, but soon I began to feel like a prisoner in my home, the palace. For they were instructed to keep outsiders out, and secure me there within. Then I entered the Steria for training at ten and had no need for them, but now, once again, my life will be controlled, and closely monitored, until the moment I die." she sighed saying "This may prove difficult for me."
     "I see." King Therakles stared at his mentally anguished Queen.
     "Please, dearest brother, know how difficult all of this truly is for me, for it would seem our father prepared you for this position  far better than he has trained me. So, all I have said now, I have spoken of in full light of the truth of my heart, mind and spirit, confessing thusly to you. So I beseech you, for the care and benefit of my soul and my sanity, please give this little bit of friendship and happiness unto me. For nothing shall come of it, for I am Royalty."
     "So then, we are agreed." Therakles relented his disapproving position for the sake of the love of his sister.
     Here her chamber maids and bathing attendants entered hurrying to bathe and dress their new Queen as her brother, their new King, waited the two speaking of matters of discourse concerning the welfare of the state. All gathered there never knowing, nor foreseeing, the Fates had conspired to destroy the happiness of the new found King and Queen.

Chapter 4 begins

     Queen Sparta awoke, very late the next morning, her head felt like it was stuffed with cotton as the swollen veins in her temples pulsated with throbbing pain as her stomach churned up a bitter bile as she sat upon the edge of her bed, head hung over in her hands. An ever increasing wave of nausea rising up from the pit of her belly and she having only a few brief flashes of memories of the events of last night. This was troubling.
     Leaping to her feet, sickened by too much food and too much strong drink, Queen Sparta, in the stillness of her quiet room, threw open the heavy wooden shutters hanging her head out of the open window vomiting up the contents of her churning stomach. Terrible retching sounds issued forth from the newly crowned monarch, upon this her first official day as Queen. "Your highness!" came gasps of surprise from the three guards stationed just outside her window.
     A stunned look of embarrassment and horror came across her reddened face, quickly the queen wiped her mouth, squinting in the bright morning sun. Here too the men, also, were just as stunned as she, for they could not believe the appearance of their beautiful queen who now, her long golden red hair in disarray, bleary eyed and sickened so. "I did not realize you both would be on duty so early this morning."
     "You have been placed under day and night protection, as ordered by King Therakles. You shall be provided body guards for security, as when you were a child living at the palace, before you went off for military training and service"
     Queen Sparta, saying nothing in response, quickly closed the shutters going over and splashing some cold water on her face, rinsing her mouth, as she noticed the tables piled with gifts from last night: bracelets, earrings, cosmetics, perfumes lotions etc... tokens of love from the ruling elite as well her beloved people. The room was warm with the orange glow of the embers in the fireplace as she wrapped a thick crimson woolen robe around her taking in a deep calming breath, yet she was quite displeased in herself for she, herself, had no, intact, full memory of the Coronation Feast.
     Here she called out for her guards whom she knew now would be standing on the other side of her chamber door "Guards!"
     Presently the door swung open quickly where she beheld, Captain Sinos, clothed in his armor, sword at his side, as he stood before her, strong, tall and handsome as ever "You summoned my Queen?"
     "Come in. Close the door." she smiled suddenly feeling a little better in his presence.
     Now this command was obeyed as Captain Sinos turned giving a serious look to the three fellow body guards standing just outside the door, who each gave him a curious, knowing wink and smile but remained completely silent as their captain entered and then was alone with Queen Sparta.
     "Dearest Sinos!" she said embracing him closely to her royal person with great affection, for she had known him their entire lives, both being born around the same time, both of Themiscyran mothers, raised up together after the fall of their ancient nation. "Why, I am surprised to see you have volunteered to be here with me, with the promise of my protection, and security, at the risk of your own life." she said embracing him once again as if she had not seen him in ages.
     "My Queen..," he responded quizzically "Why it was you, yourself, last night, whom sent forth Captain Brittas to summon me, for your personal selection as your chief guard." he peered into her bloodshot green eyes "Do you not recall?"
     "Why Sinos, my friend, and faithful Captain..," she sighed with shame saying "I tell you this.., there is not much that I can remember from last night." Queen Sparta shook her head with a dissatisfied look "There remain bits and pieces of my memory I try to string together, in my thoughts, yet all for naught. This is difficult for me to say I must confess."
     "There is no shame for you to feel, you have been through much, and everyone shared their wine openly and willingly, if only for the glory of your company, that is all, nothing more." he smiled brightly with great care for her person "Allow me to send forth a light breakfast and hot ginger tea, for you to eat, to give you strength, this will help to ease your malady.., as I see you are not quite prepared to join King Therakles."
     "Why, what is occurring this dreadful morning?" her pulse quickened with anxiety.
     "A luncheon has been prepared for the families of Spartan and Themiscyran descent, to honor the memory of King Vyakles and Queen Thera." Captain Sinos informed her of the engagement she had neglected to recall.
     A panic arose from within Queen Sparta's spirit, for she was in poor condition to her face her friends and family "I must prepare at once, send forth for food and call for my maid servants to attend to my bath and dress me, for I must make myself presentable as not to embarrass my brother, our king, any further by my delay.
     "At once your highness!" Captain Sinos turned to go but was held back by Sparta as she touched him on the shoulder. "Yet tarry a moment longer, for I am slightly aware of one thing, and wondering..," she said her eyes wide with a hint of fear.
     "Yes?"
     "I seem to vaguely recall being.., kissed." she blushed.
     "Kissed, my noble Queen?"
     "Kissed my brave Captain." Queen Sparta replied as she stared into his dark eyes her soft lips pink and moist.
      "Kissed..," he whispered moving closer to her where, there face to face, his hot sweet breath upon her cheek "like this?" Captain Sinos pressed his lips to hers with deep wet kisses revealing the mystery of whom it was that had brought the queen to great passion filling her heart just a few hours hence.
     "Yes." she sighed with delight catching her breath "Exactly like this!" once more the two embraced the warmth of their tongues leading to an excitement of urges coursing through their veins, for they had been close friends but had gone no further until last night and now.
     Suddenly the chamber door burst open as King Therakles, arrayed in robes of golden splendor befitting his royal title, stood there in the presence of his sister, who was now found alone with Captain Sinos, who was a little too close in proximity to her body; which the king found quite disturbing. "Captain Sinos!" the king shouted in an angry tone, for he did not believe this to be the proper thing for a newly crowned queen to do. "You are dismissed!"
     "Captain Sinos!" Queen Sparta retorted with her own anger rising in her voice due to the unannounced ingress of her brother into her private bedchamber "Go at once, and do as I have command you, for I have kept my dear brother, the king, waiting too long and I must prepare myself for the day." Queen Sparta spoke in subtle defiance against her brothers intrusion "And NOW.., you are dismissed."
     Captain Sinos bowed deeply to both his king and queen leaving the two alone, he, himself, being glad to be out of the sight of the ever jealous Therakles, who watched and worried over his sister as if she were his own wife. Yet even still he was loyal to the both of them, and he would never want to be the cause of any fight or disagreement between them, but it was too late for the anger and the ire of the king was just now slowly rising to wake.

   

End Chapter 3

     As the sun began slowly setting in the clear western sky, over Mt. Taygetos, casting long dark shadows of the snow covered pines, Queen Sparta and King Therakles, arrayed in their royal apparel, stood at the Temple of Hades, the body of their father lay before them upon the altar dedicated to the worship of the god of the underworld. The multitude of mourners, some thousands, watched with weary eyes, their hearts filled with great joy upon seeing their newly crowned young king and queen their golden faces shining in the fading light of day. Then a silence befell the crowd, save the scream of eagles overhead in search of prey before the onset of night, King Therakles, his heart heavy, his words filled with fires of vengeance as he spoke unto all the people saying in a loud, rich clear voice.
     "Citizens, noble men and women of Sparta, the Fates have delivered unto us an unspeakable tragedy.., yet speak of this tragedy we must." he paused clearing his throat "The sacred life of King Vyakles, our brave and noble ruler, was taken yesterday on the field of battle, during the Siege of Thebes, killed by the weaponry of our enemy the Macedonian Army and their Tyrant King!" Therakles felt his pulse quicken with the rapid beat of his broken heart. "Now as I stand here before you all, seeing the body of my father arrayed in his finest armor, sword and shield, I am reminded of his spark of life, the brightness of his eyes, the fierceness of his gaze, the love of a father for his children, now all this and so much more has gone away forever, memories banished to the land of the ghosts and winds. On this long cold winter's day my soul is vexed by desolation, my thoughts wrought with sadness, yet even still I feel hopeful, for my heart is lifted by the warmth and joy as I see you all gathered here in memorial honoring our illustrious king. You citizens, of this most favored nation, you; whom have been burdened to suffer the stunning loss of our leader, as a terrible mantle of anguish draped over our people, who loved and served King Vyakles well, 'lo those many years he walked the earth, flesh of man, a living breathing soul. A soul purified in the absolute resolution to serve and protect you, his beloved people, who now, at the time of his death, honor him so with your tears and tokens of love." the people hearkened unto every word of their newly crowned monarch, intently they listened all those assembled, members of the military, political elite, farmers, lawyers, merchants, helots, children and babes on mothers hips, and so forth.
     "Our dearest Father, and King, was found always to be a just man, a righteous man, a man whom feared the gods and goddesses, but fearing no person or nation, nor threat of war. King Vyakles was a lover of Peace and a destroyer of nations. He hath brought forth many historic victories home to Sparta, Commanding the Armies and Navies with valor and distinction. Whose spoils of war hath provided mountains of wealth in gold, silver and slaves. Yet, alas, his life has thusly been taken away, by our hated enemies, Macedon and Thebes, whose imminent destruction shall soon be close at hand, a votive offering to our dead!" here a roar of cheers arose up from the people who had an ancient taste for blood and revenge bred into them over the centuries, they could find communal solace in their grief by uniting together in a deep seeded hatred of their enemy. King Therakles and Queen Sparta were delighted by the shared emotion of the multitude. "So we grieve deeply our loss of such a brave and noble man, this maker of war, bringer of peace, full of mercy and pity, father unto me, leader to us all. Yet, no one can truly know, nor fully understand, the suffering the Fates have bestowed upon this nation, this dark day, at this hour. Such is the depth of our conjoined sorrow. Let us now declare before the gods and goddesses the greatness of King Vyakles' generation to all the Earth. Proclaiming the name of King Vyakles of Sparta, Destroyer of Nations, whom hath poured out his soul and spirit, given up his ghost in pools of blood in the white winter snows. Whom has given up his life in service to his country, whom has made the ultimate, sacred sacrifice, serving with glory and honor. Ever ready, willing and able, to answer the call to arms, at a moments notice, eager to show his devotion to his citizens, whom he so loved, the people he was proud to shield in loving protection from the danger of swords and arrows. You all here gathered presently, the very people, I see gathered here all together, on this chilling day, huddled together against the cold in the presence of the body of our fallen, beloved king. He, whom has united us in an eternal bond of his blood, shed for our sake, the memory of his sacrifice forever burned in our hearts and minds, for all eternity,.This his blood covenant, a covenant of Unity, Loyalty, Respect and Honor." King Therakles bowed deeply as the applause form the audience lauded him enormously his heart filling with warmth chasing away the chill of Despair and Misery therein.
     Now Queen Sparta, whom had sat back, was enraptured by this eulogy as her brother spoke passionately leaving her speechless upon hearing Therakles' deep thunderous voice; which did her noble heart good to hear, for his oratory skills were a remarkable and gracious gift from the gods whereas she, herself, had not the talent for public speaking. Even so she had a duty to speak to her people and comfort them, so Queen Sparta summoned up all her courage, her cheeks red with icy winds and anxiousness. Taking her cue from her brother she also spoke in a rich clear voice, full of passion and emotion; which did well to lift the hearts of the citizens of Sparta as the heavy burden of grief eased up a little with each of her carefully chosen words.
     "I stand here before you with eternal steadfast love and affection for my father, my world, my king, before you his beloved people for whom he sacrificed his life upon the altar for the sake of our freedom from tyranny. So that we may, ourselves, come together once more under the banner of his love and protection. Yet now lies he there.., yet I tell you this! I, along with my brother, seed of his loin, carriers of his royal lineage, whom have come before you so grieved, but vowing this promise of our own eternal love and protection under our new banner; which, by the grace of the gods, we have lifted up for whomsoever will, of this nation, for those whom so choose to serve our ancient throne vowing allegiance unto us forever. For it is with boldness and braveness that we raise up our new generation. For our father, and king, has now served his entire nation from the cradle to the grave, by the will of the gods and goddesses he fell into an eternal sleep his spirit sent to commune with his forefathers in their tomb. Be it known unto you, dearest brethren and beloved women, who weep for the love loss of our king, pray you find a little comfort within your hearts, for the loyalty shown by your tender love and mercy is a blessing unto all the people of the earth. Surly goodness and mercy shall be granted unto this nation by the pantheon of the gods, whom we pray shall smile upon us in favored grace, now at this time of our sacred sorrow. So that we might take the threads and fringes of our pain and weave around ourselves a warm cloak of comfort to shelter us from the pain, by the grace of the gods we pray for guidance, good omens as signs of constant vigilant reminders of the life and legacy of King Vyakles." Queen Sparta stepped back taking in a deep cleansing breath as the words fell from her mouth like warm honey in the summer, she was well pleased with her speech as King Therakles embraced her tightly, kissing her upon the cheek, as the people cheered.
      So it came to pass, as the somber funeral procession began slowly winding down through the dimly lit streets of the city in mourning, brother and sister walked silently behind the horse drawn caisson. By the end of day's light, that bitter winters night set in, as the body of King Vyakles and the ashes of Queen Thera were laid to rest in peace, sealed up in the ancient tomb, together, forever. All performed under the strict guidance of the chief priests in a private, torch lit, ceremony at the twilight's last gleaming. Those two children of the dead Queen and King, who were born into this world under such controversy, whom had survived the assassination of their blessed mother, were at long last brought back to the palace to be left alone with their grief for only one hour before the Coronation Feast, so that they might rest for a moment and change before the festivities, yet Queen Sparta would be late as she had fallen onto her bed and into a deep peaceful sleep
   

More Chapter 3

     Forthwith the War Council gathered in the great hall of the palace where Queen Sparta and King Therakles listened intently to all the information imparted to them as the roar of the flames of the fire crackled with life where, in the warm glow, the newly crowned monarchs waited with baited breath as the wise and aged War Councilor Vasha spoke "We have received word from our Generals, their are heavy losses on both sides, however the remaining Macedonians, who were not cut down, have fled the field of battle northward back to their tyrant King Phillip, whom had already abandoned the city well before the fighting commenced." he paused staring over at the twins he had known their entire lives, and well too his heart was full of grief for the loss of Vyakles , his friend, mentor and king, however he had a job to do. So he spoke once more, his deep voice filling the room. "As for those dogs of Thebes, they have all retreated back through the western gate. Our army has now surround the city and sealed off the seven gates. We have ordered our eastern  herds of sheep and cattle to be drawn closer to our troops encampment, for all shall be entrenched for 40 days."
     "Only forty days War Councilor Vasha?" King Therakles said as both he and his sister, Queen Sparta looked at each other in unison and disbelief.
     "Surely we shall require a longer period than that." she added.
     "Were it Spring or Summer, yes, but this is the dead of winter and with no fresh supply of food or wine, their water source frozen, forty days should be the required amount of time to starve out the population and reduce the city to a heap of burning rubble and ash."
     Starvation, Queen Sparta thought for she had not eaten in hours, but this thought along with the rumbling in her belly was sated as she witnessed trays of dried figs, and dates, fresh baked wheat berry bread, warm honey and butter, hard boiled eggs, baked goat cheese with roasted almonds, hot cider mulled with spices being brought out as refreshments for the thirty people gathered together there for the urgent meeting. "Tell us more." Queen Sparta beseeching War Councilor Vasha as she helped herself to the delicious fare brought forth  by the servants of the kitchens of the royal palace.
     "There is one matter I must bring to your attention." Vasha spoke his black eyes appearing to grow dimmer.
     "Do tell." King Therakles said as he too helped himself to the sweet figs.
     "We have been sent a message from inside the city.., from the Queen of Thebes." War Councilor La Quint spoke up with the information he had received.
     "A message from the Queen?" the twins both said in unison in astonishment.
     "She entreats you to permit the women and children to be allowed to travel to Thrace where they have been offered refuge and exile." War Councilor La Quint explained  "Pray, how are we to deal with the wives and children of our enemy?"
     Now all who were gathered before the newly crowned King and Queen were amazed to see Sparta leap to her feet with fire in her eyes as she did speak, telling them in a loud clear voice of determination. "Relay to Queen Ashlin, that we will allow the women and children to come forth from the city.., only under one condition." she paused for dramatic effect as her brother sat there wondering and waiting. "They shall be taken by our troops and sold into slavery to the Persians and Assyrians"
     "Sold into slavery..," King Therakles wondered  thinking what a fortune in gold could be procured by the sale; which meant newer better weapons for the army and new ships for the naval fleet.
     "I do not believe that corpulent, old queen will take too kindly to this offer!" Queen Sparta laughed. Then a wave of anger came quickly across her face as the rage of hate burned bright from her eyes singeing her words with righteous indignation. "No, there shall be no escape from the pain of starvation and death for those citizens of Thebes, whom have allied themselves with those barbarians from the north! NO! Thebes, and her people, will be utterly destroyed, for we shall burn their empire down!" Queen Sparta's voice rising in a crescendo of anger and fury. "King Vyakles sent us out on this, his last, mission to destroy Thebes and her people, annihilate them wholly, completely."
     Here King Therakles stood next to his sister declaring to the War Council "Our rule shall begin with this order, call up three thousand troops, dispatch them post haste to replace those front line fighters, so they may be recalled for seven days, for the benefit of our brave warriors who have defeated our enemies this day. Bringing a great joy to our hearts on this, so mournful a day." King Therakles smiled well pleased with the outcome of the long battle. "We shall take care to send out lashings of beer, but our warriors shall take no wine until the city is destroyed. Also we shall allow the hetairai to be sent out in seven days time for the entertainment of our lonely soldiers, this shall be permitted for three days, and three days only"
     "Yes Sire, we shall send out word and make it so." War Councilor Vasha replied eyeing the young monarch, who sat himself back down upon his throne, happy to see Therakles taking on his new role as the king with due diligence and with much seriousness.
     "And the Gameon festival, the marriage ceremonies?" War Councilor Zaron inquired.
     "Ah yes..," King Therakles paused remembering they had all been delayed by battle. "We shall have to proceed with the festival during the ides of February when our fighting men shall thus return."
     "King Therakles, the festival has never been postponed." he replied fearful this would be of great offense to Zeus and Hera.
     "Well, War Councilor Zaron, our army has never been forced to wage war in the middle of winter either, but we all must adapted to the change." King Therakles retorted displeased by the tone of impudence in the old man's words.
     "Now..," Queen Sparta spoke sitting herself down next to her brother with a somber expression saying "I do not have to remind anyone here, gentlemen, these are the hours of our grief and sadness, and therefore we must part company, for now, as the duties of our father's funeral weigh heavy on hearts and minds for this is the time of our great and tragic loss. You here, who have lived the story of our short lives with us, who knew our mother and father, who brought us up into this world, teaching us, guiding us, as if we were of your own flesh and blood, we are blessed among all the people, for the gods and goddesses have seen fit to bestow upon our Royal Person the friendship and love you yourselves have bestowed upon us, lo these many years. Thanks be to you all gathered for the sake of our sacred and ancient city, blessed are you who give us wise council. For the love of the departed, our brave and noble King Vyakles, our own father, flesh of his flesh blood of his blood, whom have the veil of mourning draped across our backs, heavy with grief in our hearts. Heretofore we must go now, before the citizens of this honorable nation, whom have loved and worshiped our father, for their spirits are wrought with anguish, as our own hearts, where Sadness and Despair have found a warm home to curl up together." all the men and women gathered together there stood before King Therakles and Queen Sparta and those who did know them all their lives, and all those who did know the twins mother and father, were struck by the likeness of the former King Vyakles and Queen Thera. Many stared long and hard for they, themselves, could not believe their eyes, for the two monarchs were the living, vivid image of their parents. This served as sign unto the War Councilors, and the servants of the Palace, that better days lay ahead of the ancient city and her people, but today was a day of somber reflection, for death had come and stolen away the life of their beloved king. So it was the people began lining the streets once more gathering first at the Temple of Hades where the body of King Vyakles was clothed in his armor upon the altar, shield in hand sword at his side, where gifts of votive offerings were piled high, treasure to be sealed up with him in his tomb forever, gold, silver, wine, food. Here the people watched and waited for the arrival of Queen Sparta and King Therakles, anticipating the eulogy as the women gathered weeping over the sight of the lifeless body of him whom they all held in the highest regard.

Chapter 3 continues

     As the sun was nearing it's zenith in the clear blue sky that cold winter's day, Queen Sparta and King Therakles were presented by the High Priest and High Priestess of the Temple of Hades before the crowds of people who gathered around the hillside; of which the ancient sepulcher was built into, located just outside the city. Hammers and chisels were implemented by two of the builders of the Royal Tombs, called forth to unseal the stone vault. Brother and Sister stood there together, holding hands, their nerves on edge as they trembled in the frigid air before the opening of their mother's eternal resting place. Here looking up at the familiar structure; which was fashioned as a shrine dedicated to the worship of the dead. There was, above the portals surrounded by two large columns, a scene of a hunting party painted in bright colors upon the facade over the entryway. A painting Sparta enjoyed looking upon the many times, growing up, when she came to visit her mother's tomb, it portrayed a mounted hunting party of men and women in the process of dispatching a lion, a stag, game birds and other prey, an artistic statement to all those who passed by that this tomb belonged to an exceptionally important Royal Family. Inside were precious grave goods crammed in the corners and niches, where votive offerings were brought for the spirits of the dead, all items left to honor them with a rich treasure trove of finely crafted items, a message for thousands of generations yet born, a reminder to the future world of Greece's Golden Age.
     Queen Sparta took in a deep breath holding back her tears as she remembered coming to this quiet place, early in the mornings on warm Summer days, to be alone sitting on the steps, bringing many tears along with pretty flowers she would leave as a token of love for her mother. One morning, after sitting there for hours she had got up and left, but turned back to spy a deer with her fawn eating up all the sunflowers; which did her poor little heart good to see. So with this sacred memory Queen Sparta entered the icy tomb which had been sealed up nearly 20 years ago, upon the assassination of her mother, little Sparta was not there that fateful day for she was still being held hostage by her mother's assassin. With heaviness in their hearts brother and sister followed the holy ones in the darkened musty chamber, they, themselves, were not quite prepared for what they would see.
     The colors were what stood out at first as her eyes adjusted to the streaming sunlight which poured into the ancient tomb illuminating the space. There was the hue of reddish black, the sheen of old silver, fragments of wood blackened by fire and decay, sprinkled with tiny leaves of gold, green patinas of oxidized bronze sculptures, rusted iron weapons, full sets of body armor, gauntlets, greaves, arrows mingled and unsheathed, swords, shields. There were 100's of silver bowls, jugs, cups, plates, all gilded in gleaming gold; which shone bright in the light of the torches as if they were newly made and just now put away. Here King Therakles stood in reverent awe in the silent tomb, save for the prayers and incantations, as incense were burned, prayers offered up to appease the dead. Taking in the sacred moment, he would cherish forever, for he, himself, was a devotee of the Ancient Mystery Cult, familiar with his peoples religion, knowledgeable in the art of lethal spells and charms. All this, the grave goods, were scattered about, in no orderly fashion, upon the tile floor and around the marble sarcophagus; the cold slab on which their mother's earthly remains lay. There before their tear filled eyes, out of sight of all the people, brother and sister gasped seeing the full skeleton of their beloved mother, the body of which had conceived them, the womb of which they were both nurtured, together, lay before them wrapped in purple silk and linen, covered by her shield, her sword at her right side, her crown at her feet. Here they saw the bones of Queen Thera had turned purple in many places as the dye from the shroud had leeched out into the porous white skeleton. Here the High Priest and High Priestess carried in a heavy 3 foot golden box, to gather up the earthly remains of the long dead queen  for the cremation ceremony, to clear away her body, making way for the corpse of the newly dead King Vyakles, so that they might be joined here together forever, united in the grave for all eternity along with the remains of those noble royal ancestors of the brave King.
     Now here is where Queen Sparta parted the path of her religious beliefs, so strongly held by her dearest brother King Therakles, for she did not wish to have her mother's earthly remains to be destroyed by fire, the form that gave her life reduced to a pile of ashes and teeth. Though Queen Sparta realized, deep down inside of her being, that was just the Themiscyran blood trying to speak to her spirit, but she was now living and breathing, raised as a Greek citizen, a Spartan, above all, and now she was the ruling Queen. Even so she had no power to go up against the power of the priesthood or the wrath of the gods, so she kept her mouth shut never speaking her mind as she stood as a silent witness to this holy process. Standing over her mother's skeleton she was instructed to remove Queen Thera's Sword of War, as her brother took in his hands her shield, the High Priestess removed the crown from the sarcophagus as the High Priest collected the bones and skull, placing the skeleton in black fur, wrapping them up and setting them gently inside the golden box. Two young acolytes, dressed in red, entered bearing censors of smoldering incense of frankincense and myrrh to ward of any evil spirits from entering the space, chanting prayers of protection for the living.
     The High Priest spoke in a loud voice so all the multitude of citizens gathered outside the chamber might hear "Now we shall cleanse the bones of our Great Queen Thera with fire, the smoke and ashes shall drift up with our prayers, to Mt.Olympus, so the gods and goddesses might bless her with divinity and allow her to reside with them there forever and ever."
     So it came to pass the attendants of the Temple of Hades carried away the mortal remnants of that Noble and Glorious Queen Thera, as her children followed along the processional way their chins held high, showing much grace and little emotion, though their hearts were broken, and the day was still not over. For they would spend the next four hours with the War Council to be apprised of the ongoing siege of Thebes, next they had their fathers funeral to attend and oversee,  then the night would come and so would begin the Feast of Coronation, all the while Queen Sparta's only desire was to return to her warm bed and go back to sleep, 

Chapter 3 begins

     It came to pass several hours later, after brother and sister had been properly groomed and dressed for the occasion, the snow storm had passed, a strong southerly wind blowing up from North Africa leaving a cold cloudless sky to greet the morning; of which the priests and all the people took unto them as a sign of good, a fortunate omen. Sparta and Therakles, clothed in long purple woolen tunics, cloaked in white robes of ermine, their faces powdered with gold dust, were both quite nervous, but for different reasons altogether. Sparta doing her best to numb herself to her grief and Therakles enraptured by the ancient ceremony he, himself, had been waiting many years to behold and partake of , yet both remained silent as they were instructed not to speak, for now they were always to seem as deities, this holy sanctification ritual would serve to cross them over from a mere mortal state to that of living divine being, to be perceived in the minds of the people forever, for this was all part of the royal propaganda machine, as was held by all ruling monarchies in every and all the surrounding territories.
      So forth they went together in the royal chariot sheathed in gold and silver, drawn by two pure white steeds that blessed day, being led down through the snow covered city streets surrounded by thousands of citizens who had left their warm beds to stand and cheer in the chill of the winter sun; which arose in a robe of golden splendor. Many of those who looked upon the brother and sister did so in wonderment, for the people, old enough to remember back 20 years ago, were all astonished for the pair were duplicate images of Queen Thera and King Vyakles when they would go about the city arm and arm that short time before his bride was assassinated by Odessa the notorious, and spurious, Queen of Themiscyra that fateful night. It was eerie and heartwarming to behold, for Princess Sparta had the same long copper blond hair of her mother, Thera's same bright green eyes, tall with a lean muscular build the picture of youth and vitality. Therakles was a little taller than his father but he had the same dark eyes, black hair, broad shoulders, high cheekbones, square jaw, a well sculpted body of a god and the same assured, most intense look of absolute control and satisfaction. The duo waved to their adoring subjects this being the only interaction between them, their beloved Princess looking a bit uneasy amongst such a large crowd the roar of noise deafening but Prince Therakles had a grin on his face from ear to ear, with great anticipation.
     Now Sparta had been briefed on the itinerary of the morning and the stops they would make along the way, for it was the ritualistic duty of the new heir to participate in the ceremony. This required the sacrifice of a strong bull at the altars of Zeus, Hera, Artemis and Apollo, a process that took much time to travel about from temple to temple, where these animals would have their necks slashed by the new ruler with the sacred, sacrificial knife under the watchful eyes of the priests and acolytes, the flesh of the animals would be allowed to be drained of blood and served, later, for the celebratory dinner, a feast for the city, at sunset that night. It was a bloody gruesome method, but meant to show fidelity and reverence to the gods and goddesses in whom the Greeks so believed and provide a bounty of fresh meat for the citizens to eat. Here at each temple the finest bulls from the vast cattle herds were selected and brought forth for the slaughter, and so it was, by the hands of the very people who would rule over this nation, the sacrificial animals were killed the giant beast brought down, two by two, unwillingly giving up their lives upon the Ancient Altar as was the custom of the Greek religion and culture.
     Within that fourth hour of morning Sparta and Therakles were at last brought to the temple of Apollo where two thrones, of Spartan construction, had been established at the base of the altar, facing towards the rising sun as the multitude of people pressed closer together tightly, trying to get nearer for a better glimpse of this most sacred portion of the event, the Coronation of a new King and Queen. The Temple Enthronement required none of the blood sacrifice to be spilled upon the altar, nor any area beside the thrones, for here lay the two Royal Crowns, identical in fashion, both in the form of hundreds of intricately made tiny oak leaves and acorns, finely crafted in pure gold, weighing some two pounds each. Here, those standing at the front of the teaming crowd, were many of some of highest ranking orders of the military elite and ruling aristocracy, among these were many close friends to the former Queen Thera. Of these, to witness this most blessed and solemn occasion, were Lucia Vega and Lacuna, whom had known Thera since childhood, now some fifty years passed since the days of their early youth, these aged warriors, whom had fought alongside the brave Thera and suffered much with her, had served as a surrogate mother to her daughter, Sparta, and son, Therakles, ever since the two had lost her at the young age of five that tragic night twenty years past. It was with great pride and delight they watched on at this glorious sight and Lacuna whispered to Lucia Vega she felt the spiritual presence of their long dead friend.
     There the incantations of the Head Priest and Priestess offered up prayers of thanksgiving and supplication from the people of the city to the god Apollo, prayers and rites Sparta was little familiar with and having fewer knowledge of than her brother, who was well versed in all things religious and superstitious. As the bright light of the morning winter sun shone upon the faces of Sparta and Therakles, their soft skin glimmering with gold dust casting an ethereal glow as the people beheld in awe the spectacle as crowns were lowered down slowly upon the heads of the Royal Prince and Princess. Whereby a hushed wave of silence befell the multitude and, for a moment, all was still save for the cawing of the ravens far off  in the forests of the hillside. In the stillness of this moment Sparta took in a deep breath, closing her eyes against the brightness of the sun; which left a blinding effect, as her pulse raced, the worries of the future already heavy in her mind. The day was long from being over, for next they would be led to the tomb of her mother, whereupon the priests of the Temple of Hades would unseal the sepulcher for the exhumation her mother's remains for cremation. All in preparation for her father's body to be received into the tomb, then there would the King's long funeral procession at the close of the day, before the Feast of Coronation began, to make it through. Quickly these thoughts raced through her mind as she opened her eyes the cheers and adulation's from the enormous crowd of people overwhelming her ears, and for a brief moment of time she could not hear, as her brother stood to his feet extending his hand out to her. So it came to pass, within the fifth hour of the ceremony, twin sister and brother, Officer Sparta and Captain Therakles, age 24, daughter and son of Queen Thera born of the Royal House of Themiscyra, heirs to King Vyakles born of the Royal House Laconia, were thus presented as Queen Sparta and King Therakles. No one there present were even capable of knowing, nor able to foresee, the turmoil and trouble that would soon be stirred up like a whirlwind by this new monarchy. 

End Chapter 2

     Racked with pain Sparta was brought into the bathing chamber, surrounded by four maids who stripped her of the heavy bloodstained armor and uniform, uncovering her nakedness as she slipped into the thermal waters; which was most soothing to her aching muscles and frigid bones. Whereupon her long, blood soaked hair and skin was cleansed as the maids tended to her with delicate touches trying to sooth her weary soul. Sparta was brought up out of the steaming waters, the glow of health returning to her pale flesh. Here she was brought before the fire where they dried her body with fine linens, wrapping her in thick cloaks of furs, binding her feet with woolen cloths as the Physician Traverios examined her wound; which he determined to be mostly superficial. So it was he cleansed the open gash with hot water, then applied a salve of lavender oil and honey. Telling her as he wrapped her right knee with strips of cotton gauze "The bleeding has been abated, and I will give you a tonic for the benefit of your stomach and to help ease the torment of your mind. You shall be brought to a peaceful rest this night." he said giving her a cup of wine mixed with gall as she took the chalice to her lips taking in short sips of the bitter liquid.
     "You are as skilled at healing, as you are filled with tender compassion." Sparta gave a soft smile her green eyes filled with the orange reflection of the fire, her face wrought with worry, her brow deeply furrowed with stress and pain.
     "Come brave Sparta, the Queen's Bedchamber has been prepared for you to rest, in private." he explained taking her by the arm helping her walk slowly down the corridor, where the few guards or servants she encountered bowed to her graciously and she was confused, not fully realizing she was now a Royal Person in the house of her Father and Mother.
     Traverios and Sparta went arm and arm, as he led her into the large room, a fire had already been lit and was roaring to life in the hearth, filling the chamber with a warm glow of flickering light that left long shadows dancing across the wall and ceiling. "Come, for soon you shall find yourself in the arms of Morpheus. Sleep will bring you a brief respite from your troubles, of this I can assure you." he said helping the tired young woman into the large bed covering her in more furs to seal in the warmth of her body against the chill of the winter night air.
     Sparta felt a wave of warmth rise up from her belly to her aching head and a slight bit of euphoria imbued in her bloodstream and she felt a little relief. "My thanks and praise be to you, Traverios, but I entreat you, stay here, by my side, for I do not wish to be left alone tonight." she asked with a tinge of desperation in her voice.
     "Very well." he said with a gentle smile stroking her soft cheek sitting himself next to her on the left side of the bed, placing his arm around her so that she might rest her weary head upon his quiet breast; which altered not its quiet beating as she took in deep breaths her mind and body quickly filling with a tingling sensation as she drifted further and further into a deep restful sleep.
     Now, as she slept, no dreams or haunting visions entered her mind as the opium released her from any care or thought from the past, present or future. Sparta lie there like stone, safe and warm in her new bed and it was not until a few hours later she awoke in wave of incredible heat as she sat up feeling feverish. There, in the stillness of the dimly lit room she, herself, did not find her physician next to her in bed, instead, as she gasped wiping her eyes, she spied the image of her father, now a young man sitting upon her right side. Astonished and thinking she was dreaming she reached out to touch his face saying "Father, you have returned to me!" Sparta exclaimed "You now have regained the dew of youth and your beard is no more." she said as she felt the smooth warm skin of his chin. "How can this be? How is it that you have returned to me?"
     "Dearest sister, 'tis I your only brother, Therakles." he replied holding her hands worried for the mental state of his beloved sister. "Father is gone to be with our mother now. We have survived the battle, and now are to take their place in the palace."
     "My brother.., yes my brother, forgive me, for you are the exact image of our father as I remember him from my youth. My head and eyes have been deceived by strong medicine given to me by the Royal Physician." she explained leaning forward embracing her brother tightly, as waves of tears flowed forth from her like water pouring down the mountainside, for she was so grieved only her brother could console her. So it came to pass Therakles, being freshly bathed and changed into a long white tunic, curled up in bed with his sister holding her close to him as she let out all the pain held within her broken heart. This she did in private, alone with her brother, away from the prying eyes of her people, for warriors were not supposed to cry.
     "Let it all out my sweet Sparta, for tomorrow we have much to task us with in the morning, for at the break of daylight we shall go down to the temple of Apollo together and be sanctified as the new King and Queen."
     "I do not wish to rule, I am a soldier.., not a monarch, born to fight and die for my country." she said through sobs of defiance.
     "We have no choice, nor any say, in the matter. For we have been chosen by the Divine Hand of Destiny. We have a duty and obligation to take care of our people, protect them all with the strength of our courage, and the might of our Royal Army and Navy. We shall serve with Unity, Loyalty, Respect and Honor, as our father and mother have taught us. We shall prevail against our enemies, you and I together shall rule for the rest of lives, no matter how long, or short, that may be. This shall be our crowning glory, thus we will establish our perfect union, our New Monarchy. Now sleep still my sweet Sister, my Queen. For we have a date with our Sacred Destiny."