11
When Argolicus entered the peristylum the next morning, Crispus, the stubby housemaster, stood, fists on hips, elbows out, directing slaves planting.
“Master, we’ll have this looking fresh in no time. I’m planting herbs for the kitchen. Nikolaos gave me a list. I found some flowers for color. In a few days, it will look settled. In a few weeks, the shrubs will be growing. Next year you’ll never know it was neglected for years.”
“There you are,” Nikolaos said, coming from the atrium. “I’ve just finished with the books. Have you eaten?”
“Not yet. I’m recovering from our practice session this morning, and now I am hungry. All these years at swordsmanship and you still have something new to teach me.”
Nikolaos smiled. “I’ll have food sent out here. You can eat before the day gets too h
