Chapter 22Aeneas and his father were swept past the palace gates and into the Epirote royal residence. He had only a fleeting impression of its grand architecture before they were conducted into a small, private chamber. Light filled the room and frescoes adorned the walls. Under normal circumstances, he might have found the space pleasant. It was warm, even if the air smelled a little musty.
‘If you please, Aeneas, I’d like the chance to refresh myself before our meeting. I’m sure you’d like the same. My servant here will see to all your needs.’ Skamandrios gestured toward a portly little man, who seemingly had appeared from thin air.
‘Please call me Phlegethon. I am at your service, my lords.’
‘I don’t need to refresh myself, Great King. I came here to discuss when our people will be
