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Argolicus asked Eboric and Kunimund to wait in a corner of the forum. He felt he didn’t need the bodyguards. Trying to return them would be an insult to his friend. But, here they would make him conspicuous, and he wanted to mingle without much notice.
The forum that morning was busy. The shops around the square were busy. Slaves were buying provisions from ironwork to fine linen. Clusters of men chatted and shifted in the morning sun. Although the day was warm, there was a hint of autumn coming. Maybe it was the light or a scent in the air.
Argolicus felt the aftermath of his visit to Venantius. The rumor had spread. Whether it was Sura’s accusations or Venantius’ prohibition, he sensed people turning away or not making eye contact. Friendly chatter was not going to be as easy as he
