On the shore near their vessel several groups of Ileans sat around fires, plumes of smoke snaking into the sky. Their work was done for the day and the ship was no longer listing to one side.

‘Have any of them taken lodgings in the city?’

‘Not one. Kargan keeps a close eye on his men.’

‘Did you get much of a look at their soldiers?’

Amos nodded. ‘A dozen or so marines. They carry triangular wooden shields, spears, bronze and steel swords. Another six archers, although I’d say our bows are better.’

There was movement on the steps, and both Dion and Amos turned as they saw First Consul Aristocles descending alone. He was both thinner and balder than when Dion had last seen him, with white hair at the sides of his head where his scalp wasn’t bare. His brow was furrowed, and he appeared lost in thought.

‘The night of the tremor, the eternal flame at the temple went out,’ Amos murmured. ‘Yet the wind wasn’t strong.’

Aristocles was panting by the time he reached them. In unison, Dion and Amos both bowed.

‘First Consul,’ Amos said. ‘Dion, son of King Markos of Xanthos, is here.’

‘First Consul,’ Dion said as he bowed. ‘I’m pleased to see Phalesia has weathered the night the ground shook and appears little harmed.’

‘We are harmed, Dion of Xanthos,’ Aristocles said wearily. ‘Be sure of that. How fares Xanthos?’

‘The city is well, as is my father the king. He doesn’t know I’m here, but if he did I’m certain he would send his regards.’

‘He’s unaware that you are here?’ Aristocles’ eyebrows arched. ‘Then why are you here?’

‘I apologize, but my visit was hasty. The narrows have been blocked by a piece of cliff, fallen into the water. Until the passage is cleared there can be no trade between Xanthos and Phalesia.’

The first consul nodded abruptly. ‘I have many things on my mind right now.’

‘I thought perhaps the eldren—’ Dion began.

‘Enough about the eldren,’ Aristocles interjected, scowling.

Dion immediately saw that he’d timed his arrival poorly. ‘I can see you’re busy, First Consul. I apologize for arriving unannounced. Perhaps we can discuss this another time.’

Aristocles ran a hand over his face. ‘No, it is I who should apologize, Dion of Xanthos. I will speak with you, but now I must go and discuss an important matter with one of my fellow consuls. You will rest tonight at my villa and we will discuss what brings you here.’