Oracles of Delphi - Chapters 1 - 6

Heraklios stared at the two priests, but neither said a word. "Well, once word gets out someone will claim her. If not, then you two can do your duty and handle the pyre and burial." 

"For a thousand years we have done our duty." Philon's voice was tight.  

"And for a thousand years, the Amphiktyonic League has provided protection so you priests can perform you duties. If anyone or anything interferes with the administration of the Sacred Precinct or Sacred Lands," Heraklios said, "the League will take all steps necessary to eliminate that threat."  

"Of course, the League has responsibility in times of grave threat," Philon agreed with ice in his voice. "But, the murder of a single young woman doesn't rise to that level." 

"I wasn't talking about the girl."  

For a moment, it seemed as if Zeus had turned Philon to stone. He didn't move a muscle, didn't take a breath. Then the moment passed and he appeared relaxed, in control. "Since you seem to have this investigation well in hand, we simple priests will leave you to it. I will send one of my guards up to oversee removal of the body. Please keep us informed of your investigation's progress."  

Kleomon opened his mouth to speak, but Philon gripped his arm and guided the still-glowering priest toward the door of the theater. 

Heraklios called out, "You two sure you have no idea who this girl is?" 

Before disappearing through the doorway, Philon turned. "The investigation is in your capable hands now, Heraklios." 

Heraklios watched them go, then turned to Theron and snorted. "Priests and bureaucrats-I don't know which is worse. Now, you ready to undertake the task of bringing this young woman's murderer to justice?"  

"Me? I thank you for your confidence," Theron said, "but-" 

Heraklios leaned in. "To be frank, I'm shorthanded at the moment and could use your help. I've got a new group of psiloi in and they're too busy exercising their cocks to train with their spears." He walked around the altar. "Looks to me like someone's sending someone a message, and I think you're just the man to figure out who's who and what's what." 

"As I told Philon and Kleomon," Theron protested, "we've come to Delphi on a mission of a personal nature-to fulfill Aithera's father's final wishes." 

Heraklios threw back his head and laughed. "By Zeus's beard, man, I'd wager a year's pay that old Lysandros will still be dead after the murderer is found." 

Theron opened his mouth, but Heraklios clutched his elbow and guided him toward the body on the altar.  

"Now," Heraklios pressed, "why don't you give me your expert assessment of the situation." 

Theron looked up questioningly at Aithera and she shrugged in answer. She glanced at Praxis and sighed. They both knew that when Theron was presented with a problem to solve, nothing could stand in his way. And they both knew that it wouldn't hurt to wait a few more days to find the answers to their own mystery-the reason they were in Delphi in the first place. Besides, Aithera thought, she could certainly use a little excitement. Her life had changed dramatically after losing the protection of her indulgent father. Athenian society suddenly expected her to grow up and act like a respectable matron even though her husband couldn't care less whether she came or went-as long as her money was within his easy reach. Praxis had slowly changed from best friend and childhood confidant to distant bodyguard, and Theron was busier than ever working with Praxis to manage her father's vast estate. A little adventure could be good for the soul. 

"I don't have an expert assessment-at least not yet," Theron answered. "I do think whoever did this wants us to think it was a sacrifice. Why else strip her naked and leave the body on the altar of Dionysos? It's clear that Kleomon is taking the bait-or old Kleomon is providing the bait." 

"Surely, you don't think he's involved," Menandros exclaimed. 

"He seemed awfully eager to point the finger at the priestesses of Gaia-or anyone associated with them," Theron replied. "And the priests have unfettered access to the Sacred Precinct. He, or someone he knows, could have left the body here." 

"Is it true? What he said about you?" Menandros asked. "I've known you a long time and it seems odd that such a skeptic and admirer of atomists like Leucippus and Democritus could be the son of a priestess. When was the last time you prayed to the gods?" 

"None of us can escape our history, but at least we have some say about our destiny," Theron replied. 

"The Fates might argue with you on that point." Heraklios laughed. "But one thing is for sure, we all have family members we'd rather not claim. As for the priestesses, I know there are a few folks scattered here and there who still practice the old ways. I say let them. You're not going to find me saying anything bad about any god or goddess-I'd just as soon have them all on my side. But, as far as I know, Apollon long ago replaced the old beliefs here in Delphi." Heraklios said.  

"That may be true," Aithera spoke up. "But, that is not what the murderer wants us to believe." 

"The cult lives on in Delphi," Theron whispered. "Of that, I am certain."