Pulchra And Akaru, Page 2

  ***

  The young nobleman made his way through the streets and presented himself at the magistrate’s house. The magistrate and his eldest child met him at the door.

  “Viton, welcome,” the magistrate greeted him. “Your father and I studied with the same teacher. As boys we were inseparable. It is a privilege to welcome his son into my house.”

  “Good sir,” Viton answered. “My father speaks as kindly of you as you do of him. I am indeed glad to present myself to your family.”

  “Come inside my boy,” the magistrate said and ushered him into the house and pointed to his son standing behind him. “Fortis here will show you to the bathes. Son, treat this man like your brother, he may be soon enough.”

  Fortis led their guest away. An hour later after being bathed, groomed, and dressed for dinner they returned the best of friends. The young men reclined at table along with the magistrate and his older daughter, Cara, and her husband Telon. The magistrate’s wife was about to present her youngest when a messenger hurried into the dining room.

  “My lord, I am sorry to disturb your meal,” said the messenger breathing heavily. “But I would be remiss in my duties if I did not bring this news to you immediately. Mere minutes ago, the trees outside of town began to sway violently though no wind was blowing. The people in that neighborhood were greatly frightened by this omen and even more so when a savage cry sounded from the trees. A moment later a great spear, too large for a man to throw, flew from the forest and landed in the middle of the street leading into town. On the shaft of this great spear was tied this scroll on which is written ‘To the Magistrate.’”

  The messenger handed the scroll to the magistrate and hastily left the room. The magistrate pulled the scroll open and studied it for a minute. Then he laughed and said, “Listen to this:

  ‘Magistrate,

  I know you have welcomed a young man into your house this evening with the intention of presenting him to your daughter Pulchra as a husband. If you do so the aid I have given you shall be withdrawn, for I expressly forbid it.

  The Lord of These Lands’

  Some other fellow believes himself lord of my territory and lord of my household. No doubt some jealous young man who thinks to stop this union with idle threats. My wife, come present our daughter to our guest.”

  Pulchra smiled sweetly as she entered with her mother. Viton was struck by her beauty and smiled back, but spent most of the evening discussing business with the magistrate.