When Theseus returned from the boar hunt, he was looking forward to regaling his father, and anyone who would listen, with his exploits. But when he entered Athens, he perceived an air of sadness. It permeated the city and seemed to deepen every day.
No-one wanted to talk about it.
Eventually Theseus could control his curiosity no longer.
‘Father, the people are in a state of utter despondency. I don’t understand why and no-one will tell me. What are you hiding from me? I am your son, your heir. One day I will stand in your place. I must know everything about our people. Tell me…’
‘You are right, but it is a sad tale to tell. You have heard of the great sea power of Krete.’
‘Of course. I have also heard wondrous tales of their great cities and have seen their exquisite pottery.’
‘Yes
