Arden

Arden by: dnrock(dnrock@rock.com)

38: New Jobs, New Responsibilities

1319, 3rd. month, 10th day:

These past three days have not been all that eventful but I have been kept in constant motion.

We four were called to a conference with our fathers and several senior knights. Each of us was give a post with one of the government divisions. I am to assist the treasurer who also looks after taxes, customs and the new postal/savings service. (TN: Arden called him the keeper of the treasury.) The treasurer reports directly to Prince Karyakos and is very old and in poor health, I must learn this very quickly. The military, now under Prince Tertius reports to the king and Iason will become his assistant. Kastor and Polydeukus will assist the two knights that look after: laws, law enforcement, courts, hospitals, guilds, all schools, the castle & estate operations, roads and waterworks, ports, Argoanuts, Eagles and so on.

Each responsibility (TN: I think he means departments) has its own group of civil servants and knight. All of those knights come from the council. I think if the treasurer were not in such poor health, this would have been held off unit next year. Given the additional work loads for us, our schooling will be stretched for a longer time. We all enjoy being students anyway, so none of us are complaining.

After the meeting Father and Uncle told us that we are as many as four years early in the transfer of power from them to us. We should not take this a precedent for our younger brothers or our sons. Each generation and even each prince in a generation, is different and we should judge when the time is right. They felt in the next few years we will see about a third of the council retire or die. New members will be elected.

He then took me aside and told me two things. One I am forbidden to transcribe, as it is a state secret of the most importance. The other was advice. He suggested I pick several middle aged knights and study them well. When I take on my next office and if my son is not yet of age, I will need the most trustworthy and honest knight at my disposal, in the treasurer's job. "The true foundations of stability in the land are a strong and reliable military and sound finances. Parga must never appear to be rich in wealth but always mighty in defense. That way we it will never be a coveted prize. Parga has always had sound and wise leadership. You and Iason have the potential for greatness." He put his hands on my shoulders and looked long into my eyes. "I pray to all the gods, of all the faiths, that the need for that greatness never comes about."

We rejoined the others and drank a little wine and some social time together. Of late we have not had much of that, something I think we all miss greatly. During that time we were chided for a few of our behaviours but mostly to make a little greater effort at producing grandchildren, letting them enjoy the company of the younger princes more often.

King Iason asked what plans we had for the three English boys. Iason told them: Alfred, the youngest would continue to live with his foster mother and become a palace boy. William, the middle one will study music. Edward, he was not sure about as yet. He seams to have a number of talents. I thought he should be given some opportunities to explore a more rural life. To that end I proposed taking him to Koalhurst in two weeks and apprenticing him for a year with my brother and brother in law.

I could see Uncle Iason's eyes light up at that. "I think we need a new Ganymede for the next two weeks, what say you Kary?" We all laughed and Father nodded his agreement.

"Arden, Hesiodos advises me that Panther is ready for training as a knight. Can you spare his services for that long?"

"Yes, Uncle but I think we should make some change in the rules. I know Panther is better suited to the navel side than the land. Can he be trained further as a navel officer but be given the title of Sir as a knight would have?"

"I don't see why not as their is little difference these days between riding a horse and sailing on a ship. What do you advise Iason?"

"I think we should talk to Admiral Palatino and General Zokitos." I could see Father was pleased with his apprentices response.

Kastor interjected, "We see Panther becoming our Darkon the Steward but with influence more outside of the castle. Having some kind of a title will be important in the future. One earned, is always better than one granted."

Uncle looked at Poly. "I agree. If Panther were to achieve a higher rank in the navy, perhaps third officer and is then assigned to our staff, he could keep his navel title and be in our service. Iason, why not ask the Admiral to assign him to one of the other Prince Class ships as forth officer and when the Prince Nikias is commissioned as third officer there. After some service on the Prince Nikias he can be reassigned back to us. He should serve more than one captain."

I am sure the Admiral will agree with that. I think it a better plan then just asking for a policy change. Not that you shouldn't. You should do that also, this offers the Admiral and General some time to consider and examine consequences without pressure.

Uncle and Father were smiling at each other like two children that had just succeeded in steeling a sweet and not gotten caught. After they embraced and kissed several times Father turned to us. "Iason and I were never sure just how successful it would be, having 4 princes, all so close in age, sharing the duties he and I carried alone. You just demonstrated the wisdom of our decision. Now let us go and show the council just how well we all work together," the King said.

"We do not intend to share Edward with you, however," Father added. With that we were all laughing so hard none could move from our seats. In my mind I could see Father's large hand sliding along Edward's long thin legs up under his short kilt. I am also reminded, I can become fully erect by just thinking about some sexual act even while overwhelmed with joy and humour.

1319, 3rd. month, 10th day:

This treasury position is far more complex than I thought it would be. I am finding to properly understand it, I must work with each group doing what they do. Collecting tolls for example would be quite simple but customs is another situation all together. The postal service is not overly complex in what it does. It seams to be complex in accounting for everything and making sure only those with proper authority have the privilege of franking. (TN: This is a Latin term, that means free.) Parga's government and that includes us princes, can impress an envelope with our seal and send letters. Others must pay a small fee to have the post master place the Postal Services stamp upon it. All users, be it for fee or franked, need be kept track of. The franked letters still cost something to send, so money or credits must be transferred from the place budget, for example, to the Postal Services treasury. This is far simpler then each official user drawing coin, to give it to another government agent.

It is not our intention for the Postal Service to make a profit as in some other kingdoms, we do intend the cost be reflected and recovered from the price. The deposit system is another matter. It does have some cost to administer and secure that treasure. Instead to charging the customer the treasury has use of it until the depositor requests its return. The treasury will then give the Postal Service credits to offset its costs. Large sums will be taken to the castle for safe keeping but smaller sums will be left in the various post offices.

We of course use counting devices of various kinds to keep track of all this. Our ingegneres have developed two types. One is an abax (counting table) of ancient Greek origin, that has been greatly modified from ideas we got through the Romans and their abacus, which was also influenced by bead and rod boxes from the east. The other much smaller. (TN: abacus is Latin from of the Greek genitive abakos, of abax). Our ingegneres also have devices that make complex calculations. Like the navigational, astronomical and tied devices. They have many others but all are highly specific to the application, such as surveying.

1319, 3rd month 21th day:

Today was the spring equinox. I am glad of it, the past days have been most draining. I now feel confident in my position of assistant treasurer. I am looking foreword to my Koalhurst visit, in three days time. I am sure it will be a true rest. I am looking forward to swimming in the boys swimming place again and tasting my mother's cooking. Her food is often simple but she does seam to make it taste so good.

Abernath has written me, telling me our parents seam to have aged greatly since my last visit and Abrith's retirement from government service. He feels having a young man to assist them will be good for both of them. My nephews are still to young and present no real challenge for them. He gave me a list of books and other things they would appreciate me bringing. I always make sure I take presents that will be used, wanted and useful for them.

I ran in six races today and won ever one of them. I am now receiving some competition in the shorter distances but still little in the longer. The Argoanuts again sponsored sports for the blind and in other ways disabled. In some sports such as archery and javelin, I predict these so called disabled will be competing against the whole bodied and from what I can see winning too. Thoren is now advanced enough that he can run in short and middle distances with sighted runners, in practice. He is the only one. The other blind runners are doing well but still need a pace setter in front of them. Thoren now knows how many strides from the starting line to each turn. He needs a coach at the finish line to let him know that another lap is starting.

William and Alfred have been spending much time with Edward and the pages. I know they will miss each other's company. I fear for Edward the greatest. Ever since we returned from our western voyage the young boys eight to 11 year olds have been spending much more time then usual with us. So much so that Ikaros and Dysme have had to send them home to their mothers, with some difficulty. Alfred has managed to endear himself to everyone but Iason is his most favoured. Edward has friends and he is well liked but I can see he has no older boy or man that is special to him.

He is fond of Father and Uncle Iason but I don't think they can fill the need I perceive in Edward. Dysme informs me that both Edward and Hilarus have been among the best of the young Ganymedes in recent time. I hope my Abernath and Ajax will see to his needs once in Koalhurst. He has obviously taken to our sexual ways as well or better than most others.

1319, 3rd month, 24th day:

Yesterday morning we left early for Koalhurst: Edward, Kleitos, Pyrros and Volos and one of Kleitos' grooms. Our ride was mostly uneventful until we came into a small village, about two hours from our destination. Kleitos wanted us to stop here to give our horses a brief rest and Edward's bottom the same, he is not that accustomed to riding long distances as yet. The Kings' Representative was not at home. His wife greeted us warmly and set her young son to seeing to our needs. The boy is about 8 and I could see much taken by Zephyros.

Ordinarily Zephyros does not pay much attention to others but I could see he kept the boy in his sight. I also noticed he was looking toward the little animal shed and a bush next to it. He would look at the boy and then at the bush and then at me. "He is telling you that their is a boy hiding behind the bush Arden," Kleitos whispered. I did not see anyone but trust both my horse and my friend.

I could see the boy wanted to sit on Zephyros but was to shy to ask me. Why don't you get your friend from behind the bush and ask Zephyros if he will let you two sit on himself, I suggested. The boy looked puzzled so I pointed to the bush and he ran over to it. Shortly he returned with another boy also about 8. I stood a little behind the boys and when they asked Zephyros if he would let them sit on his back, I nodded my head and Zephyros nodded and whinnied, as he was trained to do.

Edward and I helped them up. Zephyros was proud and stood very still for them. Edward spoke to the boys and then came to me. "Prince that new boy is very up set by something but he claims not." I looked at him. "I know, having two younger brothers, I am sure of it."

I moved over and introduced my self to the new boy. His eyes were a big as silver coins and shown the same. "Do you have something to tell me," I asked? He looked at the ground. Edward said to him, "Tell Prince Arden what is troubling you, give us a chance to help. He saved the lives of myself and my little brothers, not all that long ago. Tell him."

The boy started to cry, "my father is beating my brother badly and I am afraid this time he will hurt him."

"Where," Kleitos asked? Our host's son pointed to a house a short distance away. Before I could even react, Kleitos handed his sword, belt and dagger to his groom and ran faster then I have ever seen him run, toward this place. Edward took Zephyros' lead and we all walked toward it. We had covered about half the distance when I could see Kleitos vault the stone fence. As we approached I could see a boy laying on the ground and Kleitos pounding the largest man I have ever seen. Kleitos is not known for his fighting skills but he is a second degree knight, I was not overly concerned for his safety. As we got up to the fence I did become concerned for the safety of the man he was pounding.

He would knock the man down. When he rose, Kleitos would knock him down again. Kleitos was not saying anything. He is not a man of many words at the best of times but his silence was unusual. I could see Kleitos was not trying to injure or kill but just knock him down repeatedly. The boys sitting on Zephyros had a good view of everything. Edward ask a few questions. The little brother was much up set. I understood that. His brother lay on the ground not moving much and we could see blood on his face and tunic. His father was being hurt by this strange knight and we were not doing anything.

Volos and the groom went over the wall and carried the boy back to us. All the while the man would rise, protest and be taken down again. Edward told me the father was fond of drinking to much wine or ale and beats his wife and children.

I suggested the young boys go and fetch his wife. All the while the man just kept rising and just kept getting knocked back down. I think Kleitos was getting frustrated but he kept his attention on his task. Volos and the groom were cleaning the blood from the boy's face. His nose had bled and he had many buries. I turned to the young boys, who had run back to us. What prompted this?

My father was chasing me as he wanted to spank me. My brother intervened and father got so angry, like I have never seen before and he started hitting him. I ran for help but found you and the others in the court yard.

The mother arrived and she was beside herself. Her oldest son was laying covered with blood and in obvious distress, her husband was being repeatedly knocked down and humiliated. The injured boy told his mother what had happened.

"This time he has gone to far. This must stop."

I am Prince Arden and you are? "My name is Nikephoros." Has this happened before? "Yes but he usually only hits me or Miltiades once or twice, after he consumes to much wine."

By this time half of the village was gathered around. We left Nikephoros with Edward and the young boys, again sitting on Zephyros and crossed the little stone wall. This time as the man was getting up he saw us and his wife. At that he made another threat and this time Kleitos hit him with his left foot so hard I could hear the contact.

When he started to rise again he stopped on his knees. "Why do you hit me so?" Kleitos said nothing but before he could strike again Pyrros held him back. We both knew the answer to that question but offered nothing.

"I am Sir Kleitos, this is Prince Arden, Sir Pyrros and Sir Volos. They will not let me kill you. Do I have your complete and undivided attention, stone mason?"

He did not answer and Kleitos pulled against Pyrros' grip. It was clear he would only accept an affirmative answer.

"Yes, Sir Kleitos, you have my undivided attention."

"Good." Kleitos looked at the assembled group of villagers. "This man claims not to know why I have chosen to humiliate him before his neighbours and the gods." He turned to the man. "I will return in three days time. I suggest you think long and hard about what happened here today, why it happened and what your atonement is to be. Listen closely, your village needs your services as mason, your wife needs a husband, your children need a father. I do not make threats. Pay close attention now. My three companions are Heroes of Parga and knights of rank. Should your understanding or atonement be unsatisfactory they will be powerless to prevent this village from being without a stone mason, your children without a father and your wife a widow. Do, you, understand?"

"Yes, Sir Kleitos."

With that Pyrros let Kleitos loose. I spoke to the woman assuring her we would look after her sons. She should tend her husband. She stopped Kleitos to thank him. I overheard him saying, "Sometimes it is easier to get the attention of a mule than a man. Once you have it, the results are most often worth the added effort."

Once back across the wall he immediately went to Miltiades making sure his injuries were not overly serious. They were many but not life threatening. Had they been, I think no atonement would have been possible, at least in Kleitos' eyes.

We left the younger brother with the King's Representative family, secured a couple of donkeys, to free the pack horse for Miltiades to ride and headed for Koalhurst. Before we did that I saw Kleitos send a message to the castle. I assumed it was asking for an additional horse. Once in Koalhurst, Kleitos took Miltiades to his brother's home. That is when I knew for sure, this boy would be coming to the castle with us.

Edward was just a little puzzled. He did not know Kleitos all that well yet. Not like we all knew him. Kleitos does not live in our apartments any longer, he wanted to live closer to his beloved animals. He is still very much part of our family. I explained that when Kleitos was his age, these young princes I know, rescued him from a demanding and overbearing father. Seeing this boy being treated far worst then he ever had been, caused his action. He looked at me and said, "you and Prince Iason?"

"Yes,"

Volos added, "that was the first time Pyrros and I witnessed Prince Arden in action. As you are example, he seams to just keep on collecting people and making our family bigger and bigger. Kleitos has just added another."

I was not intending to stay with my parents, feeling their small house would not be adequate but they had other ideas.

The next day Edward was introduced to most of Koalhurst, all of its boys and my favorite, the boys bathing place. For a few hours Kleitos and I were again boys, chasing and jumping into the river with the others. Unfortunately Miltiades was still to bruised and soar to join in the fun but he did get a chance to bath.

As my ward, Edward was accepted into the community with no hesitation. My parents were even more grateful then I had imagined. Especially my mother, who proclaimed for everyone to hear, her youngest son finally brought a replacement for himself and it only took 7 years. I know Edward is still much confused. Not about what is happening to himself. That he understands but about his emotions and his future. My parents understand this far better than I. Experience I guess. We all live it, but do not have the view that parents do. I left with a glad heart, knowing Edward was on the right road. When I heard him asking grandfather and grandmother for advice and guidance, my mind was at ease.

This will not be easy for him or for them, but I know, together all would triumph. My parents had a new challenge and their energy and attitude was measurably changed in those three short days. Edward took his part with a dedication and interest, I had not seen in him before. I think I understand why he was not comfortable in the castle or city. Here in Koalhurst he will have the time and few distractions to draw his interest. He will be able to concentrate on what ever it is he does, work or fun.

My brother showed sufficient interest in him to ease my mind on that as well. Edward had learned much in the company of the royal couple. He demonstrated to me in those three short nights, just how much and how well. I think it a most winning combination, the guidance and patents of the old and the drive and passion of the young adult.

1319, 3rd month, 26th day:

We rode out of Koalhurst early, just after first light. Miltiades was healing well but still quite sore and bruised. Kleitos was in the best mood imaginable. He was talkative, not as his usual quite self. Just as we approached his village, Kleitos turned to Miltiades and said, "You will of course continue with us to the castle."

"Yes Sir Kleitos, I will follow you. How will you arrange for my father to release me? Should I not stay to protect my siblings and mother?"

"It is not your father I am concerned about and he should not be a concern to you. Your mother is another matter. She will understand but she will not be happy about it. You must mollify her by saying and meaning what you say, that you will make many visits and write many letters. As to protection, it will not be needed."

I reached into my purse but Kleitos stopped me. "No Arden, I will not pay for my Squire's service. He will not ask either. I will see the mother has some coin in the care of the Representative. Trust me in this, I know what I am doing. I promise you Miltiades, this estrangement from your family will only be temporary. He must, as I did, leave, so his true value can be realized. Now that I have the stone mason's attention, it will not be to long in the coming either." I smiled and nodded, Miltiades just looked upon Kleitos as if a god. This is Kleitos' way, he trains horses the same. He gains their undivided attention, humbles them, so force and discipline is not needed, giving rewards for performance. His results speak for themselves and has gained the respect and admiration of even the most seasoned on his staff.

Few second degree knights have squires. Few are able to afford. Kleitos is well paid and has a very responsible position, as our chief animal trainer. Perhaps he will qualify himself for his next level now that he has a taste of battle and the responsibility for a young squire.

We came up to the Representatives home and the two young boys came bounding out to meet us. Kleitos had a privet meeting with the Representative and Miltiades. I was not invited, so stayed away.

Presently Miltiades' father and mother came along. I must say the man looked as bad or worst than his son. Kleitos had beaten him considerably and he would suffer for some days yet. I could also see that without the influence of excess wine, the man was pleasant enough and smiled a lot. The young son ran to them and was greeted warmly. He did not appear apprehensive or afraid. I thought that a good thing.

"Sir Kleitos," I have thought on this as you instructed. I know what I did was wrong and my atonement must be harsh and considerable. I must make an apology to my son, my neighbors and my prince. I am a large and powerful person but I have not used that power in a wise or respectful way. I beg you Miltiades to forgive this fool of a man, I was wrong to over indulge with wine. Wrong to attack you for doing your duty to your brother and family, that I have discredited."

Miltiades began speaking but I knew these were not his words. They were Kleitos'. That does not mean he did not agree with them, I am sure he did. "Father your apology is accepted, you are forgiven now as in the past. Forgiveness is not difficult. You have wounded me deeply and that wound can only heal with time and I think separation. I know you love your children, I am one of them. Your children love you too, I am one of them.

Sir, Kleitos has offered me a position as his squire. This will take me to the castle. The separation of time and distance will allow us both to heal. Your blessing on this venture, please."

"This is wise and generous of Sir Kleitos, yes my blessing is given." He moved forward and kissed Miltiades on both cheeks. Since both were still suffering physically they did not embrace. I think the looks on both their faces told all.

"Sir Kleitos, I swear I shall never drink wine or ale as long as I shall live. Nor shall I raise my hand to my wife or children again. Should I fail at either promise, I shall present myself to you for another beating, to get my attention reoriented on the important things of life."

Kleitos smiled, "I appreciate you candour and understanding. Your promises will not be easy to keep. Fondness for wine and the application of power, even misdirected power, are strong and it will take great courage to resist them. I have always believed the love between parents and children is even stronger. Draw on that strength, put your pride aside. Their is no shame in seeking help, their is great shame in placing anything above that love. Changing ones life is like laying that first course of bricks, it must be on a good foundation, straight and true. All else follows."

As we rode toward the castle I could hold myself no longer. Kleitos, I did not know you wanted a squire?

"Neither did I. In truth I do not need one but it seamed like a reasonable request and who could questions it. Miltiades has gone off to be a knight's squire. He did not run away, he did not leave because of his family situation, he left to take a coveted position at the castle. Second, I could not pass the opportunity to recruit such a brave and dedicated young man as this, to our family. What he becomes matters less than having him a part of us." He winked at me. "Since I moved to my apartment, my bed is to often cold and I miss the comradeship of our brotherhood." I almost admonished him to move into our apartments again. I restrained myself. Kleitos feels he need to be physically close to his horses and his staff, even the stable manager reports to him now.

Miltiades will be totally dedicated to Kleitos as he is to Iason and I. I think even more so. Once he is treated to my friend's love making skills and passion he will be ours soon after. What talent lay hidden, will in the fullness of time be revealed. One thing is certain, our guardians will give this brave lad the skills and confidence he now lacks. He will never be laid low again by anyone, without giving as good as he gets. Judging from the size of this 15 year old young man, he will be among the most fearsome and perhaps the largest of our family, but not the tallest.

Volos and Pyrros seamed satisfied and I could see were looking forward to teaching this new boy his military skills. Miltiades rode next to each of us for part of the journey, which gave all opportunity to learn something about him. I was most surprised that the groom, who is even less talkative than Kleitos, seamed to be talking non stop to this new boy. At one point he was telling Miltiades how much he enjoyed travelling with the princes as even the most mundane of journeys seamed to produce some adventure and excitement. Something I never knew. "Squire Miltiades your life is for ever changed. It is not the way you think. however. Once under the influence of these princes you will find strengths and abilities you hardly dreamed of. They will cause you to dream the impossible and inspire you to make it so."

Many say such things about us and me specifically. Thoren thinks we are heroes greater than those of Homer. He is fond of saying, "if their was no Homer, Odo would invent him and it would be his poems." that he recites. He does this just to see me turn red, even if he can not see it with his own eyes. Deep in me, I must question myself. I know I am easily embarrassed by praise but just how genuine is this humility? I am proud of my apparent ability to lead and inspire. If I am to be an example and princes are supposed to be that if nothing else, in trueness to myself, I do seem to fill that role. My brothers as well.

I am or have become a symbol to others. I never set out to be so and am not comfortable with it. Being a prince is to be a symbol, I understand that. I think my symbolism has become something more, that is what I am uncomfortable with. In thinking about what happened the other day, I guess we have been an inspiration, at least to Kleitos.

On our return all was normal. Iason and I shared our bed alone and our expressions of passion were as great as they have ever been. Were all my duties as pleasant as being his lover, life would be simple and contain only pleasure. Were that true the need for this journal would not exist. I took the most beautiful erection in the kingdom into my mouth and made love to it with my tongue and throat. His long shaft sliding between my lips was pleasure unsurpassed for me and from his moans, him as well.

Iason rolled me on my side and enter my anus pressing himself to my back he and filling my void until we both spilled our seed. I could feel with ever touch, kiss and insertion his love and affection. It was wonderful to let that emotion wash over me. Edward was skilled and earnest in his pleasure, both given and received; no man, not even Uncle Iason, can give me what my Iason does. He tells me I am the only one who can do that for him as well.

We need go to one of the hunting lodges, just the two of us, lock ourselves in a bedroom and make love for hour on end until neither of us has ardor remaining to expend.

Our work today was difficult and demanding. Our sports were a pleasant relief. When we arrived in the baths Miltiades was holding court with the pages and other young ones. Again I noticed all wished to speak to him and talk openly, even those who tend to be on the quiet side. He quickly turns the conversation into you talking about yourself, not asking him questions. Our fathers joined us and for the first time in many weeks all of this family was in the baths at once. Suddenly I became aware of Alfred's naked body clinging to Iason. A moment later I noticed Helladios at my side. Their other friends were gathered near Dios and the young pages, trying to look inconspicuous.

Alexandros came down the stairway from our apartments and two other male guardians from Princess Elpis' staff, appeared at the main entrance. Helladios was now trying to hid behind me and Alfred was kissing Iason and pressing his body even tighter to him. I saw Father nod to Thanatos who immediately called his son to join us in the bath. Alexandros was now in a quandary, he had his duty to perform but he should honour a request from his father.

"Go and tell their mothers that the boys are in the bath with the young pages and we will send them home after our evening meal. Tell Princess Elpis that Alexandros, Arden and I are looking after Helladios." They immediately departed to do this bidding. Alexandros was now in the water with us greeting all. Helladios was still hiding behind me, so I knew he must have been up to some mischief. I could see from the look on Uncle Iason's face he was in an extraordinarily jovial mood. He and Karyakos were whispering to each other and smiling.

"Alex," he said, "are you here as guardian or brother in law." Alexandros looked himself over, making some display of it, "brother in law, father. I did come as guardian but that station seams to have been misplaced." This brought much laughter and much giggling from the young boys, including my little brother.

"Helladios do you wish to tell us why you and your friends decided to join us, uninvited I should add." He poked his head from behind me. "No, but that was not a real request was it. We wanted to meet Kleitos' new squire." Father looked a skeptical and gestured for him to continue. "The girl guardians were chasing us for our baths and we ran in here knowing they could not follow. It was my idea and you should not be harsh with the others."

"Who said anything about being harsh. I do think the captain of the Princess' Guard has better things to do than chase mischievous boys, don't you?"

"Yes father."

"I think our little brother and his friends just want to be closer to us older men and boy's Uncle. Kastor and I did at that age and I think everyone else in here too," Poly proclaimed.

Alfred was still clinging to Iason like a leach. Iason, for his part was most content with this; having his arms warped around him and frequently kissing his head and shoulders.

"Father, these boys do not want or need a mentor yet and most have a father but just like Alfred, they long for a daddy, some have a greater need than others," Iason said.

Uncle held out his hand and Helladios was in his arms in an instant. No boy in this castle lacks for male guidance or models to emulate. The need for physical contact, affectionate interchange with that daddy, apparently is not as abundant. Dios and the three terrors moved close to us as did most boys to their mentor. I noticed the other boys all picking out one of the older men. I do not know if this was planned on Helladios' part or if it just happened or perhaps they hoped it would happen.

Many of the older boys and men, also men and men, drifted off to one place or another in the bath hall, for more sexual interactions. Those of us that remained were either engaged with young ones or playing crotch and kiss games with our boys and partners.

"Dysme, the little ones will get their wishes. Will you have Solon and Kalkrates organize them? I think Thoren should come to tell a few stories and Odo can lead some singing and playing. Lets keep it to boys who express a need from 8 through 11 about once a week."

"Should we not also interact with our young daughters Iason," Father asked?

"I think we should but not in the bath." That got a laugh from everyone. "Kastor perhaps you and your sister should organize this."

"Might I suggest Sophia and Eudoxia with Kastor and myself as their advisors," Alexandros added. I think he was just being helpful and it was a good idea, one I was sure Uncle Iason would take. Not without giving Alexandros just a little chiding first, I found out.

"I think you are correct, Sophia needs more duties or she will become bored but both you and Eudoxia already have heavy work loads. Could it be you desire more time with your betrothed Alex?" Not holding for Alexandros' response, which I was sure would be denial, all of us began laughing and chiding him.

"My soon to be father in law is quite correct. It was at his wish our wedding has been postponed until the fall, to match that of Iason and Sophia, prolonging our separation. Iason and Sophia have many opportunities to socialize, Eudoxia and I, few."

I know my beloved Iason would adopt Alfred but Uncle Iason will not hear of it. He gave three reasons. First, Iason and Sophia are not old enough to take responsibility for a nine year old child. Second, Iason needs Sophia's agreement. He told him, only a fool would adopt a child of that age without the concert of his partner. Third, he feels all three or none, it would be profoundly unfair to offer that to one brother and not the other two. The brothers should be kept together as family if at all possible.

I know when Sophia sees how much Alfred loves Iason and how fatherly he is toward him, she would be supportive. Uncle Iason makes a good point, neither of them have any experience raising a child and three at once would be an impossible task, even if one is over 12. That apparently is only something gained by doing.

I did not hear but know our fathers admonished Helladios and the others not to escape the female guardians by using our bath or quarters, that includes the male page dormitory, again. It was funny the first time, that I must admit, it does show some cleverness. Should he allow such to continue it would grant an unfair advantage. Children see things in clear terms of this or that, they are not able to judge the middle ground. Their view of fairness is not wide enough. Only Helladios seams to have a truly open and compassionate view of the world. It is not his maturity but the narrowness of that world, that keeps him classed as a child.

My brothers and I have been pushing our boundaries since we became princes. We are still doing this. I do not know how far we will go but Father told me, "Arden you will one day reach the limit of the boundaries set for you. You will know this when you realize you push not against them but the ones you set for yourself. That son is the most dangerous position. It takes wisdom to judge, which of those boundaries need be changed and which must be held firm. It is mythology that identifies and logic that defines. The path to destruction is often easy and paved with good but poorly thought through intentions. Much harm results from princes who fail in understanding mythology and allow self importance and desire to rule logic. Some believe they are above the rules set for others or the gods treat them special. That is the heart of demagoguery." He is correct, the gods do not punish us, we arrange punishment for ourselves.