Chapter 18 begins

     Dawn the next day, Queen Sparta awoke early, going out with her brother to the temple complex for the morning sacrifice. She then met with Brittas, Captain of the Palace Guard, along with King Therakles concerning the matter of Synos. King Therakles, himself, being more than eager to agree to send the young man packing back to the military, so glad to be rid of him was Therakles that he promoted him to the rank of Major, as he was quite anxious to get him away from his dearest sister. Queen Sparta, herself being quite relieved her plan of deception was going so well, naturally, as she had imagined it would be. However, moments after Major Synos departed, word came for the King and Queen to meet with their Councilors of State at the Halls of Council immediately, where disastrous news came sweeping in over the region. Leaving that, ever so brief, moment of sweet happiness Sparta had allowed herself to feel to be completely, and utterly, dissolved like honey in hot water as all was soon revealed.
     Firstly, a great tragedy had befallen the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus, where that sacred religious center thrived for hundreds of years, a holy place among all cultures where pilgrims would travel to worship in the immense temple coming from as far away as Phoenicia, Egypt, Persia, India and Gaul. For Artemis the goddess, herself, was recognized by many religions as the mother and nurturer of humankind. There at the temple was stored up a vast treasure of votive offerings, a trove of riches, exotic metals and exquisite jewelry, crowns of gold, weapons of silver. This all came to an end, just days before, during a violent thunderstorm that blew in west from Egypt. The storm lasted three days, and as many nights, ravaging the vast temple complex with its 60 foot high columns towering upward to the sky, sitting upon a hill overlooking the shimmering bay where the massive structure, the gleaming white marble temple, shown bright in the sun and could be seen from nearly ten miles out at sea, was struck by lightening, over and over again, the flashes of blazing heat illuminating the hundreds of painted statues along the frieze of the building. Whereupon the intense heat and flames setting the ancient temple ablaze and the moment the raging inferno reached the marble pediment and vast wooden roof structure the building was burned to chalk dust and ashes.
     This information was ill received and especially devastating to Sparta and Therakles, whose ancient ancestors, the scattered tribes of Themiscyra, whom had erected  the temple to Artemis on the site of a sacred grove, hundreds of years ago, was now, according to reports, reduced to a heap of ruins.
     "I, myself, feel in a cold state of devastation by this terrible news." Queen Sparta spoke her voice clear and loud above all those gathered there. "I remember traveling there.., only last year.., where I, myself, set forth on my adventure of worship on my last pilgrimage to the sacred house of Artemis." she exclaimed recalling."For when I saw that holy temple; which towered above my head reaching towards the clouds, all the wonders of my eyes had ever beheld, paled in comparison and were left in the shade, for the sun, itself, has never shown down upon its equal.., outside the Temple of Zeus in Olympia." she shared her true feelings on the matter.
      "How, by the grace of the gods , could this have happened?" King Therakles said beginning to pace back and forth as Queen Sparta remained perfectly still upon her throne listening to all with an open heart and a perceptive mind.
     "What more.., pray tell, my learned council." Queen Sparta said in a loud voice with a look as serious as the grave saying "Why do I have the feeling there is much more tragedy in store.., or have I finally reached my breaking point of madness?"
     Here among those many ambassadors and agents of council kept their mouths shut, however it was Ambassador Lacuna who opened up her mouth, saying. "Secondly, my King and Queen.., there is distressing news from our trade partners in Caria, for King Mausolus has been assassinated and chaos reigns in the region."
     "Well.., that was bound to happen." King Therakles said unfazed by the revelation "It would appear his social experiment, his idea of a  multi-cultural Utopia has failed."
     "Yet, King Mausulos was worshipped as a god by his subjects." Queen Sparta said shocked by this turn of events, as the kingdom of Caria was a favored trade partner with the whole of Greece.

    "Be that, as it may.., it would seem the extreme taxation of his people to fund his monumental buildings and the construction of his grandiose tomb to house the body of himself and his sister/wife Queen Artemesia, proved to costly and has ultimately cost him his own life" the messenger relayed more information to those gathered together there in the hall, waiting on baited breath for more news. "There are rumors that Queen Artemisia, his wife and sister, had a portion of her brothers ashes, still warm from the cremation ceremony, having his remains mixed in a jug of wine and spices, whereupon she drank the elixir so that there flesh, brother and sister, husband and wife, could be mingled together one last time." 

     "Have you any GOOD news to impart?" King Therakles asked disgusted by the tale, his stomach churning at the thought of a man who could marry his own sister, making her his incestuous queen, lording over his people, enslaving his citizens to unfair taxation and extreme poverty, Therakles could see now this god-king was murdered in cold blood for many good reasons.
     "Not that I am aware of." came the stone faced reply "Due to the upheaval in the region of Ephesus and Caria, Emperor Cyrillus sends word he will be returning in 7 days time after he visits the Oracle at Delphi."
      Here the doors to the council hall were thrown open by another messenger out of breath panting excitedly "There are, now, two envoys back from Athens,  here outside."
     "Send them forth with their message and answer." Queen Sparta said sitting up straight, her heart racing. "What news of you?" she asked her eyes wide, clear and bright.
     The Spartans were informed that the Athenians have refused to commit any land troops to defeat King Phillip and take back the gold and silver mines. Now with the region of Caria to the south of Thrace the Macedonian Army is pushing down into the region. Athens offering only to support the Spartan troops with food and weapons for the siege of the city. The Nation of Sparta and her wise rulers refused, themselves, to commit any warrior troops to the conflict in the region, instead they ordered their Generals of War to send forth 25,000 soldiers to the northern borders with Macedon where 40 new garrisons were to be constructed to house the Army, all to insure any attempt at incursion into Greece by the Macedonian King would cease and desist.
      This was a very bad day leaving Queen Sparta worried about the future, however her brother, King Therakles, was not concerned in the slightest for he had been given the gift of foresight, though his sister, Queen Sparta, could not be so sure as he. For her mind was dully troubled and she had no appetite for lunch that day, so she retired to her bedchamber complaining of a headache and a sour stomach, whereupon the Physician Traveros was summoned forthwith. Escorted by her guards, excluding Synos, who was happy to be back in his military division having been promoted to the rank of Major, just as Sparta entered her quiet room she was met by a companion of General Cothos, whom had sent him forth with a letter. Her pulse quickened as her heart raced, she sat herself down on her large soft bed and read the following:

     Your Royal Excellency Queen Sparta, I offer up my sincerest apologies for any offense I may have caused to you in my over zealous fraternization with the dancers, I was only amusing myself in your absence, and I was shocked and deeply saddened to learn you had departed. Whereas I beg of you to allow me to see you once more again, tonight, perhaps. As to our wager let us try again some other time, for one sweet kiss from you would be of the purest delight.

     Greatly pleased by this Queen Sparta would use this information to her advantage, letting the General believe she was, indeed, angry with him out of jealousy, so she sent back her own letter saying she was still upset that he had embarrassed her in front of her friends and loyal subjects refusing to see him for several more days. This was an effective delay for it was Queen Sparta's full intention of leaving a fresh corpse of her victim, so, upon Emperor Cyrillus' return he could see with his own eyes General Cothos laid out on a cold slab of marble in the crypt beneath the Temple of Hera. So it was, after five days of ignoring General Cothos at all costs, Queen Sparta sent out another message to him, inviting the General to go out riding once again asking him to meet her at the Royal Stables where she would teach him to ride her war horse, Saxet, the very next morning. With this General Cothos found it hard to sleep that night, so excited was he at the prospect of meeting once more, alone, with the beautiful Queen. As he lie in his bed staring up at the ceiling a rush of feelings of nervous anticipation filled up every fiber of his being, Yet, alas he, himself, never knowing this evening would be his last chance to sleep and dream for by this time tomorrow he would be stone cold dead free from life and breath.
   
     

Chapter 17

     Queen Sparta stood beside the shimmering pool her pulse racing, she felt a sharp pain in her heart as if it were breaking, Taking in a deep breath Sparta tried to relax but she was too tense as Synos appeared before her standing at full attention saying "How may I be of service to you? My Queen."
     "At ease Captain, you may stand down, for you are not on duty, and I wish to speak with you on a matter of great importance." she said peering into his dark eyes that seemed so sad as the light of happiness faded fast. "Come let us sit together and speak as friends, like we did long before I became your Queen."
     "As you wish." Synos said as his heart sank, his palms sweating as the two went, sitting themselves down on a long marble bench under the moonlit shade of the palm trees, a gentle breeze lifting her hair cascading around her shoulders.
     "Listen to the words of my mouth, hearken to the thoughts of my mind." Sparta said wanting to take him by the hand, but she refrained from touching him, as he sat there calmly beside her, she trying her best not to be overwhelmed with the pain of a love she could never possess telling him "The force of emotion between us is tearing me apart and it is too much of a strain for my heart to bear. I care for you deeply, as I have cared for no other. Yet.., I believe, in the full flush of wisdom, it would do us both a service if we were to part company.., I ask you to give up your position and return to your military division." she said plainly showing no emotion in her countenance.
     Here Captain Synos sat perfectly still for a while, as if he had been transformed into a statue, while this news washed over him like a freezing cold rain "I do not understand?" he finally managed to speak a few words as he looked at his Queen in utter disbelief.
     "Synos.., it is not good for us to be so close, as I must move on, and take a chance at marriage. I do not wish to inflict anymore pain upon your heart and mind, for I, myself, cannot bear to see you suffer." she paused taking his hand squeezing it saying "I promise you I shall not EVER be wrath with you, nor shall I ever rebuke you. For my Love for you will remain.., everlasting. This proving a most Sacred Covenant of compassion between us. So remember this promise I have made unto you, who has loved me through many trails and tribulations. As you have loved me with all your heart, mind, body and spirit. My kindness shall not be separated from you when you leave my service." here Sparta's stoic facade was wholly broken as her own words caused a few tears to well up in her green eyes. This was not something she wanted to do, to send him away, however, in order for her plan of deception to work against Cothos, she had to send him back to the military, having no no other choice in this action of the matter. Seeing the pain she was intentionally inflicting upon him, Sparta felt a hard lump, like a stone, in her throat as she tried to speak her words now came uneasy. "This Covenant of Peace and Love shall never be removed. You shall be kept, always, from oppression. Let the words of my mouth sink down into the depths of your soul, let my thoughts fill your heart with understanding." Sparta gave a little sweet smile as tears streamed down her pink cheeks while Synos sat motionless staring up at the cold and distant moon, for he could not bear to look at her, his mind racing as he felt the emotions of anger and humiliation curl up in his heart. "Synos.., I fully realize you must be very angry, as I am angry at the Fates who have conspired to keep us apart in marriage. Yet it is good that we are angry. Anger is a gift; which enables our eyes to be fully open. Yet let not our hearts be closed to the compassion of Wisdom and Understanding. For we can never be together in matrimony and I wish not for each of us to suffer unduly under the burden of our unfulfilled love."
     "No." he spoke softly.
     "No?" she asked uncertain.
     "NO!" Synos spoke boldly as he faced her directly taking her hands in his saying "I swore an oath of allegiance to serve you! Upon PAIN of DEATH!. I have vowed to protect you, with the blood of my life, to keep you safe, so that no harm should ever come your way. I ask of you, oh Great Queen, how can I resign my commission in good conscience. If I leave.., you, yourself, will be left to suffer alone, I will not allow this to happen. For though I can never possess you as my own.., I am, even still, made well in the light of your precious Love." he said in a gentle voice full of loving kindness "Do not send me away, dearest friend of my youth. For I understand that it is good for you to seek out a husband and create a family." he confessed then with a look of panic in his eyes he entreated her thusly "But please.. I BEG OF YOU! Let NOT it be Cothos, any man but him!"
     "No, Synos.., you must go! Though it causes me more pain in my heart, and my world, than you will ever know.., you must go. For in the fullness of time.., all good things must end. This is beyond my control." she replied wiping away her tears.
     At the thought of his departure from Royal service, Synos felt a nervous wave, a strange disturbance in his entire being, followed by a cold numbness flowing through his veins like a river of ice and snow. He felt his eyes watering and he gave Sparta a grief filled gaze looking as if he had just received news that he was dying. "I do not know what to say, nor even how to begin to respond.., yet I can say that my heart is breaking, my bones are frozen, I cannot stop shaking. I feel like my mind has just been made drunk, as if I have been overcome by strong wine, a rare vintage of the blood of the grape, that I have been found unworthy to drink." here his words came in desperation, he pleading "PLEASE! Sparta, I do not wish to leave your service. I am here only to protect you! If anything should happen to you, in my absence, I would never be able to forgive myself, nor would I even wish to live. Do not send away."
     "Synos, you must learn to forget me and move forward with your life, for you, yourself, must take a wife, someday soon, whom I will show grace and favor, always. For in my own life.., I must find my own way, without your guidance."
     At this Synos felt the urge to lash out at her verbally and try to provoke her to jealousy telling her "Well then.," he said coldly "Perhaps your friend Syndra would be a fitting bride." with this he hoped to challenge her to rage against the very idea, but Queen Sparta was too clever, she would not be baited.
     "Yes." she smiled sardonically "Syndra would make a fine wife and mother, your children would be beautiful, strong and healthy." here she gave a sympathetic look saying "Yet suffer me a little, bear with me this burden a little longer before you take your leave. Let us part as friends and not as enemies.
     "If you wish for me to go, forsaking my solemn duty and sacred vows to protect you.., then I shall leave." he said with a heavy sigh of defeat
     Here Queen Sparta set her will like iron forged in fire as she sat up straight looking at him face to face "Synos, you misunderstand, completely, for I do not WANT you go.., I NEED you to go.., for the sake of my fragile sanity. I will explain all to my brother, our King, he will have you reassigned and can give you a promotion for your service to the throne, if you wish, so that you may go in peace and live your life without me."
     "Live my life without you?" he pondered the very thought churning up the bile in his belly "Is that an order? You are commanding me to leave your service? Over this? This foreign general? I know you do not love him. You CANNOT! He is so far beneath you, he belongs at your FEET, not in your BED! For you are a wholly perfect, god-like being! He, COTHOS is a truly flawed CREATURE!" his voice became loud in tone and emotion.
     "No one is perfect! Only the gods and goddesses are. You must take care to remember I am a Queen, my responsibility is to my nation and to provide my heir to the Laconian Throne. No matter who I marry, or however many children I have.., without you, I will ALWAYS be alone." she reminded him.
     "Do not ask this of me Sparta. Do not send me away." he pleaded a third time.
     "My decision has already been made. It is beyond my control, as I have clearly stated. Our lives are ruled by the Fates, and so we must, ALL, obey."
     Slowly Synos stood, looking like a dead man standing before her, staring down at his beloved Queen in silence, appearing pale and lifeless as if he suddenly transformed into a ghost "Very well, My Queen, as you wish, so I shall obey." then he turned from her gaze, his head bowed down as if in defeat, the sounds of his footfalls fading from the courtyard. Queen Sparta held her head in her hands as she began weeping. Then she heard the familiar, motherly voice of Lucia Vega, who had been eavesdropping on the lovers conversation "Sparta, are you alright?"
     "No, not in the slightest." she looked up wanting to collapse into strong arms of the old warrior "Please.., forgive me, pray, tell my friends, and your honored guests, that I have been summoned back to the palace. For tonight nothing is worse than this pain in my heart. For I have been given a heavy burden of Love to endure.., so I must go now to suffer alone."

End Chapter 16

     Whereupon, as Captain Synos vanished behind the curtains departing back into the dimly lit house filled with the pleasant sound of music and laughter, Syndra began speaking but Sparta could not hear a word she said for her mind was driven to distraction as she pictured a vision. In which she found herself with Synos running away together, hand in hand, escaping all the noise and prying eyes, going down to the riverside where they would strip off each others clothing, swimming naked in the cool blue waters under the light of the full moon.
     "Sparta!" Syndra shouted to her friend "Are you even listening to me?"  her Sparta set her full attention back upon her concerned friend "Tell me., Sparta." Syndra continued regaining the Queens focus "How can you say you care more for Cothos, than our dearest, bravest Synos? For it is plainly clear, to everyone around, the love that flows, and grows, between you both. Surely this passion is most powerful, pure and raw."
     "And painful." Sparta answered almost with a whisper in a voice as small as a bird, a stabbing ache in her heart, her stomach churning. "By the Fates I have been born to Rule a Nation, I am a Queen. Synos is not, nor can never be.., Royalty."
     "And General Cothos?" La Vada spoke up and out of turn "Neither is he!" she added while Lucia Vega sat back quietly listening, intrigued and entertained by their discourse.
     To which Queen Sparta replied in defiance "He IS a high ranking member of an Imperial Family!" she shouted continuing to defend him, much to her friends chagrin.
     "By MARRIAGE! Not BIRTH!" La Vada responded loudly in vexation.
     Here Queen Sparta let out a loud sound of exasperation throwing up her hands exclaiming "ENOUGH!" she cried out then with a deep sigh and a roll of her eyes she spoke calmly "Please.., dearest friends of mine.., my mind grows weary of this conversation and I see.., now, I must address this situation, once and for all." with a serious look she gave La Vada and Syndra an order. "Go now, depart from my company, send forth Captain Synos to join me presently, for I must speak with him directly.., ALONE!"
     "Yes, My Queen, as you command, so shall we comply and obey." the two young Captains leapt up with excitement etched upon their faces as they stood erect, letting down their silken dresses; which clung to their bare, wet skin of their long muscular legs. Whereupon Syndra and La Vada, along with Lucia Vega, departed her side going back to the party. Whence it was decided between Syndra and La Vada to openly flirt with Cothos, whereby to lead him to the temptation, by seduction showering him with compliments, sweet affections and stolen kisses. Only to demonstrate to Queen Sparta what a truly salacious and lascivious creature the foreign general really was.
     But orders from the Queen come first, so La Vada called out across the room to Captain Synos for all gathered there to hear. "Captain Synos." here he looked up from where he sat quietly feeding one of the dogs a bit of left over roasted chicken as the Hetairai did their very best to distract him from his loneliness.
     "Yes?" he answered giving Cothos another severe look of disparity.
     "Go forth out to the courtyard, Our Queen requests the honor of your presence." La Vada said glad to see the spark of light of love in his eyes as he jumped to his feet with a broad smile of satisfaction upon his beaming face as he pushed, hurriedly, past the musicians and naked dancers. The mighty heart of Synos raced as he stepped out into the warm spring night the moon shining down its silvery light upon his beautiful Queen , whom he dreamed of having as his wife.
      

Chapter 16 continues

     Here Lucia Vega, herself being much older and wiser than the three young women combined, gathered up her long flowing gown sitting herself down beside her guests soaking her feet and long legs in the pool, speaking along with them in the same ancient foreign tongue.
     "General Cothos, from my own understanding and direct dealings with him, is surely a loyal soldier to the Throne of Rome. Though.., that is not to say he is wholly ambitious, for ambition is like the breath of life to him. Here me now, therefore with wisdom and understanding." the older warrior turned ambassador, whom had know Sparta's mother, Queen Thera for decades before Sparta was ever born, spoke out of love and respect for the daughter of Queen Thera and King Vyakles. So it was with care and delicate tender mercy Lucia Vega expressed her opinion without alienating Sparta from the truth. Pushing back her long white hair, the wise aged ambassador, former Commander of the Themiscyran Division, opened up her mouth letting her words pour out like an avalanche coming down the mountain. "He is a seeker of social status, born to a wealthy merchant Roman family, the second son of his father, Cothos was said to be, by many who knew him, to be a wicked child, filled with mischief. He lost his father at an early age whereby his older brother inherited the wealth and status of his father, leaving Cothos to join the army to try to make a name for himself. However, as a soldier Cothos was best known for his off color humor, swordsmanship, gambling and.., dancing." she paused as her speech was interrupted by the gasps of her guests.
     "Dancing?" the three young women said in unison as this seemed quite strange to their warrior state of mind.
     "Yes, yes, I know. Well it appears, now, he wishes to try his hand at horsemanship, under your close instruction, Sparta." Lucia Vega added teasing her a bit.
     "Tell me Lucia.., you knew my mother better than any of us here.., do you suppose my mother and father would approve of the General?"
     "I can not, and will not, base any opinion  on supposition. So, therefore, I am unable to speak for the dead." the old woman shook her head as she bowed in remembrance of her departed friends.
     "Then speak for yourself." Sparta gave a serious look asking "Do you approve of General Cothos?"
     "I can honestly say, without hesitation, my answer is NO." Lucia Vega sighed then with eyes as clear and bright as two stars she said to her "However.., you, yourself, are Queen of this Nation, let not your own opinion be swayed by others. For you are wise, and a word the wise is sufficient."
     "Yes, yes, but confess the true reason you do not like him." Queen Sparta pushed the question further.
     "There are many reasons.., However you seem to require an explanation and so you shall have one, but it is important to note that I will speak of this, truthfully." Lucia Vega, a most sagacious councilor, turned to her Queen explaining "General Cothos is a braggart and a boaster, he is a lover of adventure and advancement. As for his military career, he was awarded his commission as Captain, he did not EARN it through military skill or prowess. It was his older brother that was left to do his best to keep Cothos out of trouble, paying off his many debts and covering up the many scandals that plagued him. His brother going so far as to bribe many members of the commanding officers, finally securing the rank of Captain for his brother, whom, somehow, while stationed at the Royal Palace he caught the eye of Princess Priscilla, sister of Emperor Cyrillus, whereupon, by marriage to her, he was again awarded the rank of General." Lucia said shaking her head in disgust. "Yet, wait there is more..," she said with a little laugh of her own disbelief  "As for those military campaigns he regaled us with endlessly.., well, he was not fully accurate in his rendition of the tales. For, in truth, the vast territories gained by Rome from the Etruscans in the north, were taken, not by force or violence, and seized with little to no resistance from Etruria. It was through the threat of Roman aggression at the borders when many citizens of the villages and cities abandoned their homes, choosing to flee to the safety of their larger cities up in the mountains.Whereby, it is only through total and utter capitulation, by the Etruscans, that the vast majority of land gained by the Romans was taken. It is only through these extreme acts of cowardice by Etruria that Rome has now tripled in size." here she sighed again her political mind focused on growing concerns for the future and Romes new influence in the region. "Now, Emperor Cyrillus sends forth his legionnaires to Illyria to suppress and quell any threat of Macedonian incursion along the border. Leading me to believe that once his soldiers get settled into the country.., they will never leave, thereby occupying lands from the Mediterranean all the way to the Danube.
     "Even if that is so," Queen Sparta replied "I am certain the Romans will be splendid allies and good neighbors, for we must be united against any threat from Phillip and his intentions on ruling the world." Sparta paused thinking of the future. ''Our King shall, by marriage, cement our alliance with Rome, whatever comes we shall all face the future together. Our Armies, Our Imperial Navies, merging as a combined force of hundreds of thousands united against Phillip, FOREVER. We must all think of the future."
     "So.., you have thoughts that include the General in future plans of marriage, for some political gain?" Syndra spoke up "Forgive my impudence, my dear friend Sparta, of whom I have the greatest love and admiration, but I must say this does not sound like something you would ever think to do, this is not like you. Your behaviour seems out of character and I wonder if this foreign general has practiced some sort of witchcraft upon you, for you seem somehow not yourself, in this matter of love. You must see.., this man is completely wrong for someone of such a regal and noble bearing as yourself.".
     "Politically..," Ambassador Lucia Vega digressed to her favorite topic "It would prove far better for you to marry one of the princess of Argos or Acadia. Why even the King of Illyria himself is need of a new wife as his present one can not carry a child to term. Whatever your choice in marriage it should be later in life, wait five more years, then wed whomever you like. Though you should limit your selection to exclude any man born to a common family." she advised her to which Queen Sparta did not reply, only gazing down at the reflection of the ancient moon shimmering in the clear water with a sad look of despondence in her eyes. For she had set her heart on marriage years ago, but it was Captain Synos whom she could envision as her faithful husband and she his loving wife.
     "Sparta?" Why will you not answer?" Syndra asked as her question fell on deaf ears as the Queen was lost in a deep peaceful thought. Here Syndra reached out with her toe in the water gently nudging her leg when La Vada said.
     "She is thinking about Synos." La Vada announced knowing well her dearest friend, for she had seen that familiar look in her eyes many times when she was a young cavalry officer pining away for officer Synos.
     Now it happened, perchance, that Captain Synos, himself, had wondered where his Queen had disappeared to, so he set about the house going from room looking for her, when he heard, through an open window, his name being spoken. So he went over to the open window, he being concealed by the white linen drapes billowing up in the cool breeze, as he looked out into the courtyard where he spied, very close by, the four women sitting at the waters edge relaxing and speaking together in their secret language, though he understood his name clearly when it was spoken. Here his heart felt raw as he saw clearly the sad look of loneliness upon Sparta's sweet face as she heard her friend speak his name again. So filled with love sickness was she for he. His first natural reaction, as a man, was to go to her side, and hold her tight to give her heart comfort and ease. However Synos knew his rank and place, for his station in life was far beneath royalty and this one fact would always keep him down and bound to the laws of tradition. She was a Queen, high upon her pedestal, he was merely her acolyte, worshipping on bended knee, at her feet ,eternally.
     Here, in order to make his presence known Captain Synos cleared his throat the sound sending the women sitting  up straight, pricking up their ears. "Queen Sparta. Forgive my intrusion on your privacy, I have only come to see if you are in need of anything, some refreshments perhaps, as your audience asks after your disappearance. Perhaps you are in need of my assistance." Captain Synos asked in the confident manner of a military man.
     "Why Captain Synos!" she turned her head "I did not see you standing there." she gave a warm smile her eyes lighting up at the sight of his handsome face. "Please, dearest Synos.., you are here as a guest of Lucia Vega, you must try to relax, for you are not on duty. My watchmen are posted at the doors. I am well, though I thank you for your concern. Please trouble your heart not with my comfort, for I am well." she lied through her smile. "Go back inside, enjoy the entertainment, for the women dance for you, the single men's, enjoyment." she said instructing him to leave her presence.
     To which he only said, as his heart grew cold as a stone "As you wish my Queen. I shall leave you alone."
     Here after his quick departure there was a moment of dreadful silence that hung in the air as the sound of the crickets chirping became louder and louder, her friends giving her a disapproving look. "Sparta, why will you not even consider the love you have for Synos?" La Vada spoke up.
     "Do not even begin to speak of it to me! I CAN NOT BEAR IT." Queen Sparta exclaimed.
     "No!" Syndra defied her Queen. "You said speak as friends, so let me speak as such and I pray, to Hera, you will here." Sydra said as she watched the cheeks of her Queen grew red.

More Chapter 16

     Whereupon La Vada spoke "If you wish to discuss the matter as friends, then come, sit here with us,  so that we can be together and talk freely."
     Queen Sparta gathered up her long dress, exposing her bare legs and feet as she went slipping her toes in the cool water sitting herself on the edge of the pool, whose crystal waters sparkled in the reflection of the moonlight. "There, now.., " Sparta said feeling more relaxed out in the fresh air with her friends, whom she loved more than her own life "Tell me, whatever is the matter?"
     Here La Vada reached out taking Sparta, whom she loved as her own sisters, by the hand, with a clear mind and a heart full of good intentions "You, my dearest friend, are the most beautiful and bravest person I know, fearing no man, understanding, wise and just. In comparison.., General Cothos.., IS NOT." La Vada spoke plainly.
     "IS NOT?" Sparta repeated her words in question.
     "He, IS NOT, good enough for you Sparta.., and you know this to be true." Syndra added to make their point precise and sharp as a sword, for well she knew Truth was like a double edge sword, it cuts both ways.
     "How so, in that?" Sparta questioned her friends a second time.
     "Well, he is far too old for you, being only twenty five and he nearing forty! For one thing." La Vada answered.
     To which Syndra added "I am sure he was handsome enough back in his twenties, but the man is completely bald, with rough skin and that unattractive scar down the side of his face, and he is not nearly tall enough."
     Sparta had to be very careful and clever now for every word they offered in offense of General Cothos she had to offer up two words in his defense so she said "First of all, Syndra, he is nearly 6 foot 3, and he weighs nearly 200 lbs, with the muscular physique of a Titan. Furthermore he is not too old for me, for I see him as for more mature and wiser then the men of our generation. ALSO, as for his scars, to me they represent his military service and devotion to his country, a life of soldiering, for he is now a battle hardened warrior branded, forever, with the glorious marks of War upon him.., just so too as we." she said gesturing to the long scar above her right knee and the many scars on the forearms of her comrades in arms. "Now, in reference to his bald head, I tell you this much, last night I had a dream where Cothos appeared to me allowing me to pour oil over the naked bare skin of his scalp as he proceeded to rub his head all over my naked body." here she lied entertaining herself with her lie, amused at making her friends blush, mouths hanging open as she laughed a little.
     "Come now Sparta! You know you can do much better then this, foreign general. For you, yourself, my dearest friend, are a Royal Person you have a long list of suitors of Princes and Kings." Syndra tried to convince her of the error in her selection.
     "Allow me to explain to you, both who love me so, for I am touched deeply that you have taken the time to open up to myself the thoughts of your troubled minds and the feelings of your impassioned hearts. So much so that I can now speak freely openly and honestly with you when I say.., General Cothos has brought a wondrous delight to my heavy heart; which was bowed down under the weight of my grief and loneliness. Now he has come and lifted my spirit up from sadness. I am made exceedingly happy by his friendship and presence." Sparta professed saying further "He, if you shall care to remember, has been welcomed with open arms into the Royal Family of the Emperor of Rome, even so by marriage. Why Cyrillus, himself, treats Cothos like a beloved brother. Not only that. Cothos is the father to an heir to the Roman Throne. He is, in many respects, now I come to think of it.., he could prove to be a wise choice for a husband.., should I so choose to wed and take a husband."
     Here came her friends stunned looks of shock and utter dismay "MARRY!?" Syndra gasped.
     "MARRIAGE!?" La Vada choking a little on her own rage wide eyed in disbelief mixed with horror.
     "Why you both appear amazed by the notion." Sparta smiled, she, herself, having no intention of marriage to the man, only acting along according to her plan.
     "Sparta!" You have only know this man for 3 days!" La Vada reminded her speaking boldly.  
    Here the situation was getting serious and Syndra could not abide by this any longer so she turned to her foolish friend and confessed "I do not like this foreign warrior, nor do I trust him. As to my feelings of concern on the matter I have been inquiring of him and making my observations of him."
     "Pray tell then, what have you discovered?" Sparta asked truly fascinated by the lengths her friends would go to out of their constant Unity, Loyalty, Respect and Honor.
     "I have attained information directly form his men and servants, who claim he beats them without mercy or pity when he is drunk or angry. Also I have had many discussions with Lucia Vega and Lacuna, your ambassadors, whom are both well aware of the stories and rumors swirling about that foreigner."
     "Hark!" I hear my name." Lucia Vega said stepping out into her courtyard wondering why her three guests were huddled up together at the far end of the pool , speaking in the ancient, secret language there in the pale moons light.
     "Lucia Vega!" Sparta said a little startled by her sudden appearance. "Come sit with us, impart to me, please, all that you have heard regarding my guest General Cothos. For I am intrigued by my dear friends conversation concerning the man."

Chapter 16 begins

     Now the following hours spent with Queen Sparta were a delight to the heart, mind and spirit of General Cothos whom was given a crimson robe of royalty to where, going out with the Grecian Queen upon her golden chariot through the streets of the city. Her citizens smiling and waving as they passed. So it was, her foreign guest took in every sweet moment of the pomp and pageantry for he was treated to all the luxuries afforded to him as he was becoming ever closer, in personal relation, to the Royal Family. Now he was serving as an escort to the Queen coming with her on her chariot to the drinking party. Whereupon they arrived in the heart of the large city, near the Agora and Halls of Council, at the magnificent home of Lucia Vega and La Quint. Where they lived with their many children in a one story, large square structure with colonnade porches, built around an open courtyard, where a shimmering pool and fountain were surrounded by palm trees, with thick blankets of purple bougainvillea growing up the stone walls and ivy covered columns, here there where many large terracotta pots filled with a variety of fragrant roses and hydrangeas. There were many guest gathered in the great house milling about, mingling together, before everyone sat down to begin the evenings celebration.
     Here General Cothos was introduced to several members of the Spartan War Council, Ambassadors and Dignitaries, where he found his men, those soldiers selected to travel from Rome, engaged in lighthearted conversation with two very close friends of the Queen, Captain La Vada and Captain Syndra both of the Legendary Themiscyran Division. Now here at the festivity was, none other than, Captain Synos, whom Queen Sparta had invited for one reason only, namely, to make her dearest beloved body guard to be tortured with jealousy, as she would bathe General Cothos, openly, with great affections and admirations she would bestow upon the foreign general. All just a part of the Queen's cunning and deceitful plan.
     So it came to pass, after everyone had settled themselves down upon the many couches there, it was General Cothos who took center stage of every ones attention, as he sat back on his comfortable couch; which was placed very close to the Queens, as he sipped his wine mixed with honey and cold spring water, his face beaming with self pride as he regaled all 'round with his exciting stories of War and the recent conquest of Etruria. Many seemed impressed with his tales of glory and his skills as a storyteller, all save for Captain's La Vada, Syndra and Synos, who gave each other little looks of scorn and disgust with a bit of rolling of the eyes here and again. Of which Queen Sparta noticed her friends rude behavior but saying nothing of it as she had to try hard and keep smiling, feigning enthusiasm, as General Cothos recanted his long winded tale, which, in her opinion, were no where near as intriguing or entertaining as were the Spartan Histories, such as the Battle of the Six Hundred, or the recent Siege of Thebes, or even King Leonidas and the Brave 300 at Thermopylae. Though the Spartans were all excellent hosts to their Roman Guests so they also were all eager listeners, keeping their own stories of War and Glory to themselves allowing General Cothos and his men to entertain the small group with the intrigues of Rome.
     Now, after what seemed like an eternity, whilst the General was waited upon hand and foot and treated like Royalty, Field Commander La Quint, upon the request of Queen Sparta, sent for the Haitairi to dance naked for the men as Captain La Vada, along with Captain Syndra, excused themselves going out to the quiet courtyard to soak their feet in the pool, as they sat there at the edge of the shallow water they spoke among themselves freely  Meanwhile Queen Sparta had followed them out to spy on them standing just inside the open doorway listening and watching carefully. Here her Comrades in Arms were sitting in the palm garden, the pale moon light shining down upon their long silken hair, a slight breeze lifting their flowing tresses, ever so slightly, across there bare shoulders as the Queen listened intently thereafter she soon realized, hearing them more clearly, they were both conversing in the ancient tongue of Hatusha, a dead language only known of, and spoken by, the Warrior Women of Themiscyra. For it was incorporated into their culture 700 years ago as a way of communicating in times of War, to keep their motives and movements secret from enemy troops.
     As the Queen strained her neck to hear, she soon clearly heard, and understood, every word they spoke, and it was all of a most scathing and derogatory nature aimed squarely in the direction of General Cothos. Here, after a few minutes of eavesdropping, Queen Sparta called out to La Vada and Syndra, speaking, now, herself in the Hatusha language saying unto the two "What are these words you speak against my dearest Cothos? Declare now, if thou hast understanding, of your dissatisfaction with the man? For in him I, myself, have found immense satisfaction, for I have been with him, daily he has been my delight, rejoicing always before me, my own pure delight is with him. So tell me now.., all of it. Confess the truth of the nature of your feelings of ill will concerning the General." she said crossing her arms over her chest staring down at the pair. "Pray, speak to me.., not as your Queen or your Commander in War, but rather.., speak to me openly and honestly, as my friend." 

End Chapter 15

      "In my life, my one and only passion is a highly prized possession!" Queen Sparta spoke boldly her eyes sharp and focused upon the General who watched the flickering flames dance in her eyes which lit up like gleaming jewels of pure emeralds. Here she spoke in a calm, clear voice which did his heart good to hear, The Queen of Sparta continued "The richest treasure I possess; of which I keep locked away safe and sound; being more precious to me than any amount of gold or rubies. I have set this secure in my mind for my Passion is the attaining of Wisdom and Understanding. For Happy is the heart full of a life focused on clear, perfect knowledge. For Wisdom cries out with a loud voice from the mountain tops down into the corners of every street, in all the cities. But many there be that do not have an ear to hear, or an eye to see." she paused giving him a serious look telling him "Take heed the words of my mouth, for if you find Wisdom, wherever she reveals herself to you, hold fast to her instruction, let her not go from your grasp, keep her safe and warm in your heart, cleave to her bosom, never let her leave you. For she is your Life. You must always be vigilant and ever careful to partake NOT of the Bread of Wickedness and the Wine of Violence." she said intent of heart and thought. "Be ye not confused, dear Cothos, for there is no great Mystery, or hidden Secret of LIFE, or the UNIVERSE, as long as you keep thy heart and mind filled, and focused, with the full Knowledge of Wisdom and Understanding."
     General Cothos sat back a moment then told her "If only I could clear my mind of all my stress and turmoil, I might find room for the Peace of Wisdom to dwell in my wicked heart."
     "It is difficult for us humans.., as we, so often, allow ourselves to get in our own way on the clear path of understanding."  she smiled sweetly knowing full well that Wisdom would always escape Cothos, for his ambitions of power and vainglory would always surpass his reason. "Even so.., Wisdom goes about, day and night, from house to house knocking on the door loudly, but no one will come to open up  to her and give her reverence. Wisdom runs wildly throughout the city streets looking for those who have become lost to her. Here they cry out for Wisdom and Understanding yet they cannot see her clearly through their own tears of anguish and regret. So Wisdom stands upon the watchtower yelling out "Why are you so troubled in your vexation? Why all these worried thoughts; which rise up from your spirits like the smoke of fire drifting up as far as the sacred moon; which travels so high in the night sky?"
     General Cothos sat there in a quiet moment of contemplation. For her words touched his troubled mind deeply, as he placed himself in the story she told, casting himself as the poor bastard crying out, in the dust of the streets, crying out for Wisdom to reveal herself to him through Knowledge and Understanding. Yet he was blind and could not see the truth. "Well, I must say.., your words have deeply moved my soul."
     "My Passion is to possess all the Wisdom this World can offer. For I wish to be exceedingly Wiser than my brother, father and mother. Even surpassing the Wisdom and understanding of Socrates, even the Ancient Israelite King Solomon, of whom I have studied the teaching of his famous Proverbs, of which I have spoken of to you now. For I wish to be Wiser, even than he."
     "I am quite certain you soon shall be." General Cothos said reaching out for her hand giving it a little squeeze. Then he gave a bright look of enthusiasm asking "Pray tell, I shall ask you.., I, along with my men, have been invited to a Symposia at the home of Ambassador Lucia Vega and Field Commander La Quint.., so, would it be WISE to attend the party with you as my guest?" he inquired with a gleam in his eyes extending out an invitation.
     "ABSOLUTELY NOT!" Queen Sparta said with a severe sharp look; which made him feel ashamed. Then she leaned over touching his knee telling him "The WISEST course of action, General, would be to have you accompany me to the party as MY guest, for, by doing so, we shall insure you receive the Royal treatment." here the couple laughed together as she called out to her body guards at the other end of the courtyard. "Watchmen! Alert the Stable Master to prepare my golden Chariot, for I shall go out to visit my Ambassador, Lucia Vega, in the company of my companion, General Cothos."
     "I shall have a horse saddled for the General." came the voice of the Captain of the nightwatchmen.
     To which she replied "NO! You shall not.., for he is to ride out with myself on my chariot tonight."
     This was most unusual, and highly irregular, for the foreign General was not a Royal person and Queen Sparta was looked upon by her subjects as the living embodiment of a descendant of the gods. "Do not look so amazed in your confusion, for soon, very soon, the most honorable Cothos shall be apart of my family. Come we shall have ourselves a bit of fun.., though." she paused "with our parties here in my country.., we do not stop drinking until the sun comes up."
     "Will you, yourself, be able to stay up to greet the sunrise my Queen?" General Cothos asked in astonishment,
     "The question is.., can you?" Queen Sparta gave him a little glance of bemusement.
     "Perhaps we shall make a wager."
     "Why General Cothos, are you a gambling man?" she asked intrigued.
     "I am a Man! All men like to take a gamble at risk every now and again." he laughed.
     "Now this action could prove most UNWISE!" she gave a wink of her eye.
     "Unwise? For whom I wonder?" he made a quick reply.
     "Ah well, let me see.., If you, by chance, should win.., I will, allow you to escort me back to my bedchamber. Where I will invite you in and repay my debt with a kiss." Queen Sparta said enticing him further.
     At this knowledge his eyes grew wide as he shouted "YES! YES! I will win!"
     "However! If it is YOU who falls asleep before the sun comes up then you MUST.., go and clean out my horses stable in the morning before you crawl back to your bed."
     "You, your highness, have your bet!"