This Story is dedicated to Marielina. It s my birthday gift to you. Here is the first chapter my friend!
An Afternoon Delight
Mieza – Summer of 340 BC
The young prince rolled onto his stomach over the coarse woolen blanket. The under layer of the thick grass beneath him embraced his tired limbs. He laid his head down feeling somewhat dazed from his recent exertions. Alexander took a deep breath as he crossed his arms before him to rest his head. A welcomed mild breeze invoked another small sigh of relief as it both cooled and dried out his drenched and tired body. The young prince stared aimlessly out towards the gentle rolling field and green pasture absorbing in the natural beauty of the region. He took in one more sigh and closed his eyes relishing in the moment, a rare opportunity to simply relax and unwind. As he was about to doze off to sleep, the touch of hot skin against his own soaked body roused his attention. He raised his head and slowly moved himself up with one elbow to look up at the man beside him. Hephaestion laid facing skyward with his chest heaving and breathe coming fast as he too tried to recover into some calm and rhythmic breathing. Alexander gazed silently as the hot sun dried the rolling pearls of water caught in the hard crevasses of Hephaestion sculpted chest. The Prince smiled in admiration at the tone and well defined body of his friend resting out before him. Hephaestion was perfection in all sense of the word.
Alexander could not help but enjoy every facet of his friend's body, from the sculpted forearms, to the hard thighs, to the broad shoulders and the golden tan that covered the whole form like gold. The rays of the sun exaggerated Hephaestion's physical attributes, only making the Prince appreciate what was his alone to take pleasure in. Alexander said nothing as he continued on feasting his eyes on his friend. There was no question Hephaestion had truly grown from a small scrawny boy into a strong and determined man. Each day Alexander sent a prayer of gratitude to Olympia for leading Hephaestion into his life five summers ago. Although it was not until their time spent in Mieza did the two youth become close, it was during these past three years did the young Amyntor prove to be a true and loyal friend, confident and eventually lover. Alexander trusted Hephaestion completely and knew that no matter what the future held, he would be able to survive all that he faced so long as his one true friend remained at his side. The Prince loved Hephaestion like no other and he longed to tell him of this fact. He wanted to express his feelings and ensure his friend that their relationship went beyond the fleeting love of a common friendship. Alexander wanted to offer a love that was deeper and more profound befitting that of a lover, a soul mate. Yet, he held back all that he wanted to say, fearful that he would appear like some love struck adolescent. But time was of the essence for they would be leaving for Pella in the morning. Their instructions at Mieza had come to an end. Once back at the Capital, their young lives would be thrown into the whirlwind of court politics and of his mother. Most importantly, the young Prince's time would be filled with his new role as regent in his father's absence. Alexander would finally have his chance to prove his place as a worthy heir, as a true son of a Macedonian King. Both men understood their lives would be busy and perhaps become more complicated. It was anticipated that they would have less "private moments" to share between them once they left Mieza. He let out another deep breath sorrowfully reminded of the changes that laid before him, and for Hephaestion. Alexander was determined to never lose sight of his love for friend; he would never allow himself to forget. Finding confidence, Alexander resolved he would tell Hephaestion now. Before he was able to gain any strength to say that what was on his mind, the Prince was pulled out of his thoughts by an acorn thrown to his head.
"Do you think you can stop musing long enough to pass me the bag of water?" tenderly spoke Hephaestion, as he turned to meet Alexander's gaze with his eyes in flood with laughter, "Unless of course you had seen it as your right to consume it all."
Alexander felt a small smile tug on his face as he reached out from behind him and tossed the bag towards his friend, "What's mine is yours and yours is mine"
"Only if there is anything left to share. With you one would be wise to be careful what they put out, especially when it comes to a bag filled with wine."
"You would deny me?" leaned in the Prince as he placed a small kiss on the top of Hephaestion's shoulder, "Say no to me?"
"Never!" blushed Hephaestion with conviction in his eyes, "For you, I would give my life."
"As would I" quickly responded the Prince, as he placed another kiss on his friend's shoulder, "Care to go another round?"
"Let us wait a moment." Suggested the young Amyntor "Had you not been so rough early on, I may have had the added strength. My back is still aching."
"Your back? It was your decision to take me from behind. My knees are still scrapped to the bones!"
"Ha! One would think after all this time, you would learn that it is not wise to come at me so quickly. You must learn to pace yourself. You will find yourself better enjoying the moment."
"Ahhhh! You see yourself better to take me when we….."
"Alexander…. Hephaestion!" boomed a voice from above the hillside, "Alexander!"
The Prince quickly sat up in a state of agitation as he searched out the man shouting out from the distance, "Hades Balls… it is Ptolemy and Philotas!"
"Well it would be expected that our moment alone would not last." replied Hephaestion in a low and gentle groan. His disappointment was obvious as he also sat up, "Ah ... I guess we should head back and prepare for our journey home!" He then reached out for his discarded chiton and stood to his feet. He extended out his hand to Alexander, "I would expect your father's guards have arrived as well."
The Prince accepts Hephaestion's offer and was pulled up quickly off the ground. They quickly throw on their chitons and gathered their sword and belt. The young Amyntor looked across at his friend with a melancholy expression, "You know that things will change once we return to Pella, Alexander. These moments alone…us… together will be but distant memories." The Prince stood speechless pondering over his friend's words. Having received no response from his friend, Hephaestion accepted the silence as confirmation. Defeated, he slowly turned away to conceal his heartache. But before Hephaestion was able to walk away, Alexander grabbed for his arm, "Promise me that no matter what shall happen in our lives that we will always find time to be together." The Prince demanded. His color was high and his eyes were wide with desperation. He yanked his friend close to embrace him, "You are everything to me Phai, and never do I wish to lose sight of this fact. To lose you is to lose myself!"
"I will always be there Alexander, no matter what fate lies ahead of us." Hephaestion hastened to say unable suddenly to contain himself, "You will always find me by your side."
"Phai… I love you!"
The young Amyntor turned with a look of shock. He had held the same feelings but felt ironically alone in these thoughts. For months he had suppressed his desire to openly speak out his feelings, especially with their return to Pella so imminent. Hephaestion was stunned, but quickly recovered to joyfully lean forward, "As do I Alexander. I always have!"
"Then promise me Phai" desperately exclaimed the Prince as the voices of his companions drew closer to them, "Promise me that we will always set aside time for us... for these small Afternoon Delights!
Hephaestion was unable to stop the chuckle that escaped from him. "Delights you say!" laughter growing louder "Well then by all the gods Alexander, I promise to never forget about our mid-day pleasures!"
"Good! It is settled!' quietly laughed the Prince in relief. "We shall never forget this promise!"
"Hephaestion! Alexander!" called out the voices again, "Alexander!"
"Come Phai!" directed the Prince, "To our future!"
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Six years later, 334 BC – Asia Minor
"Alexander!"
The young King stared out pensively through the rolled up wall of his tent. He looked wishfully into the morning sky. Alexander took another sip of his hot drink lost in thought as he gazed at the mountainside. The King stood leaning on a tent pole focused on the thick white fog that hovered over the tall trees of the ridge like an old man's beard. The aroma from the multitude of smokestacks steaming from the various cook pots ribbons its way through the campsite. The tranquil silence of the army was disturbed by the liveliness of the men stirring out of their slumber. A new day was to begin, but for Alexander it was another day without his Hephaestion. The King was tired and cold with a hunger in his soul. His mind was somewhere else and distracted from the council he was expected to engage in. He was currently dominated with a sense of loneliness, of isolation since Hephaestion's departure, less than five nights ago. Though never truly alone, with pages, servants and commanders hovering over him, the King could not set aside his need for real companionship, of friendship. He missed his boon companion, his lover. Silently he cursed his friend for volunteering to be sent out on the latest reconnaissance. Hephaestion once more insisted on leading a small group to inspect the nearby mountain for local hostiles. Would his friend ever cease to prove his worth, his value to the army? Had not their display at Troy confirm his place with the King? "Stubborn ass!" mumbled the Alexander as he looked once more across the fog covered mountain and reflected upon the last day spent in Mieza with Hephaestion, and the promise they had made.
"Alexander" again called out a deep and rough voice from behind him, "Sire!"
"I am aware of your request, Philotas!" responded the King, as he turned to look intently at the head commander of his royal guards, "I have already been apprised by your father of the band of rebels up in the mountains. I agree with you. Gather whomever you wish to lead the party to reinforce our men up towards the mountain tops."
"Thank you sire! And what of my proposals for the new recruits?" continued the young commander, his pompous and arrogance apparent in both his demeanor and tone, "Will you allow me to train these young men as I deem fit as well?"
"You will train them for the tasks I deem necessary for the success of this campaign" warned the King in a controlled but sharp voice, "I do not wish to see them overextended and beaten to the ground within their first few days with us. Allot the new men time to become acclimated. We have time."
"Sire allow me to start with those who have been with us a month. Surely they have…"
"Very well Philotas take a small squadron!" conceded the King under a calm voice, his patience growing thin, "Do not waste time!"
The young son of Parmenion stepped back with a smirk of satisfaction on his face. He took his place with the other generals as another member of the King's court moved up to be acknowledged. Alexander shuddered in misery as Eumenes walked up with a bundle of scrolls under his arm.
"Sire!" quickly began the short stubby secretary, "I wish to go over the details of the costs incurred by our recent endeavors." The whole room moaned in anguish. Alexander simply nodded his consent, knowing full well he would not be able to stop his secretary from reporting his long and tedious summarization of what had been spent, and where and by whom. The King slowly walked over to his couch and tried to appear interested as he listened to Eumenes' long drawn out calculations and line item totals. Once more the old goat was restating his arguments for additional resources to sustain the campaign. Alexander carried his façade of concern as he looked into his bowl stirring its contents. He sat fidgeting halfway listening to his secretary reintroduce his show of evidence towards his misgivings regarding their trek across the Greek coastline.
Having lost interest in the presentation, Alexander again stared out through the open flaps as he watched his army hustle into life. The King breathed out a sigh of agitation. He was tired of justifying his plans for moving inland. For the past weeks, the young King had heard all the arguments and complaints of his wish to seek revenge against the Persians. Nevertheless, Alexander remained resolute and obstinate on his quest. His destiny for greatness was set, irregardless of those who did not believe in him. His patience was at an end with the berated questions from his commanders and in particular his secretary. Alexander was determined to match and out do his ancestral lineage. He returned his center of attention towards those present in the room. He glanced over the leaders of his army, his closest companions and the most experienced of his commanders. He took note of the mixed expressions that greeted him. He looked out at the old guards of his father's army grumbling under their breath. Alexander glared at Parmenion, Cleitus, Polyperchon, and Philotas who conversed quietly among themselves. These men of King Philip saw Alexander as young and restless, having gone beyond the original intention for crossing the Hellespont. On the other side, stood his old childhood friends: Ptolemy, Laomedon, Erigyius, Harpalus and Nearchus. These men all shared the same zest for adventure and ambition that mirrored his own. They were his personal guards, who would follow him without question and were wholeheartedly dedicated. But Alexander was not naïve. He felt the pressure of the importance of victory for each battle he encountered. Like all soldiers, even his comrades had their limits. They would obey and concede to him so long as they gained the power and wealth expected from this campaign. Each of his comrades and perhaps even the old guards would remain loyal until their faith in their King ended. Alexander was no fool. He was fully aware of his men's preconceived notions and expectations for their own personal glories and triumphs. He was conscious that the only man who would remain by his side until death; the one man would never falter in his love and faith was Hephaestion. It was with this person did Alexander love above all others. Never would the great King be able to survive or pursue his future without Hephaestion at his side.
"Sire!" called out the old secretary as he once more tried to regain his King's attention, "About your treasury?"
"Of course…" responded Alexander as he reined his thoughts together over Eumenes' question. The King glanced over the faces of disinterested expressions of those in the room. He could already see his men were tired of the secretary's rhetorical diarrhea. Alexander thought it best to cut Eumenes soon before the whole room died of boredom. Having previously discussed this issue with his secretary, the King knew his answer, but before he was able to respond, the trampling huffs of horses echoed in the air as men could be heard scrambling to greet the men. "Scouts!" yelled out a voice, "Riders from the Northern entrance" Alexander became preoccupied as his curiosity took hold of him. He leaned forward to the edge of his couch to gain a better view through the opened flaps. He swung his attention towards the direction of the incoming riders. He was anxious to determine the scouts' leader. Then with great pleasure, he had his confirmation, "Captain Amyntor!" called out a voice, "It is good to have you back!" The King's attention perked up as he took immediate sight of his friend who had walked into his peripheral view.
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"It is good to be back Evando!" responded a tired voice over the commotion of men. The young captain dismounted his charger and passed the rein to the page. "Make sure my horse is well fed and given time to rest. It has been a long couple of days."
"Of course Captain Amyntor, as you wish!"
"Tell me Evando!" discreetly walked up the young captain to quietly asked, "Have you seen the King?"
The young page said nothing as he shifted his eyes towards the large open wall of the King's pavilion. Hephaestion looked up to instantly see his lover staring directly at him. The King's eyes were the only features of his face that betrayed the fact that he was no longer interested in the conversations taking place in his tent. Hephaestion bowed his head to shield his grin as he once again stared up at Alexander to nod his head to the side, towards the direction of his own tent. The King smiled wide as he raised his empty bowl to his lips and offered a quick nod to communicate his understanding.
"It would seem the morning council will be cut short" came a voice from behind the young captain, then a hard slap on the shoulder, "I would presume our King would prefer a private council with you."
"Perdiccas, indeed you must be tired from our long ride" replied Hephaestion as he crooned his head to his right, "Your eyes deceive you."
"Even a blind man could see the love Alexander holds for you" swiftly countered the blond haired, sunburned captain, "Five days apart can starve any man; King, or not. Just remember my friend, you are on duty tonight!"
"Perhaps he will find himself reassigned as a personal guard for the King tonight." teased another voice, "Who better to protect our King's treasures than his most trusted Captain."
"Do you not mean to safeguard his scepter, Seleucus?" laughed out Perdiccas as he tugged Hephaestion, "It has been said that you do rule Alexander with your thighs."
"Such crafty words from a tiny man!" gruff out Hephaestion as he playfully shoved his comrades away, "I have seen your treasure trove Perdiccas, and wonder with the others as to whether you are a man or a eunuch!"
The young blond captain snarled in a mocking rage as he reached out to rumple his friend's hair, "Should you ever grow tired of your childhood lover, come find me and I will make you my personal hetaera!"
"Ahh! Perdiccas you dream foolishly. Hephaestion here is far beyond your reach, to good for your meager stature. Of course you could try to put forward your offer to the King." retorted Seleucus through a small chuckle. He then pointed into the direction of the grand pavilion, "It would appear the King's meeting is over." The young captains watched as men quickly trickled out of Alexander's tent with great fanfare.
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Hephaestion's unexpected early return to the camp had made Alexander anxious. Unable to take any more of Eumenes' argument over numbers and tabulations, the King sought a way to end the talk of nonsense that had given him a severe headache. He pushed himself off his couch and to the surprise of all those present, he approached the secretary, "Come Eumenes, have more faith. I am certain the spoils from Granicus will sustain us for some time." offered the King through a cheerful grin, "If not, then we will need to find some new city to conquer, unless of course you are willing to offer this campaign a personal loan?" The room was brought out of its coma and reacted in small snickers and jabs. Alexander glanced nonchalantly at Hephaestion talking to Ptolemy and Perdiccas, keeping an eye as to his location. The King was eager for a conclusion of the morning council in order that he may spend some time with his lover. He held hopes for an long overdue afternoon with his friend.
"Eumenes, why not leave your reports with me and I will review them later." Suggested Alexander as he threw an arm around his secretary, "We will meet later to go over your concerns."
"But sire, your army grows each day with every new batch of recruits who enlist." Uttered the scruffy old man discontentedly, pleading for attention, "I foresee that we will exhaust all our….."
"As I have said Eumenes, I will review your reports" cut Alexander his impatience apparent, "Now as there are no other businesses to attend to this morning, I say let us end this meeting and move on to other matters."
With the King's announcement, the others quickly disperse the room, restless for real activities and duties. Alexander again searched out for his friend through the open wall of his tent. He gave small talk to his departing comrades as he casually made his way out the pavilion, when he was stopped by Nearchus and Parmenion.
"Sire!" called out the Cretan general, "I have ordered the servants to fetch your horse."
"What?" exclaimed Alexander confused by Nearchus statement, "My horse?" He raised a brow as he look sternly at his general for further clarification.
"The Athenians, Sire" responded his second in command, and the oldest general in the army, "You had requested for commanders of your naval ships to gather at the main dock house."
"Of course Parmenion, but …" stated Alexander as he followed Hephaestion with his eyes, talking to Perdiccas, "I am sure this matter could wait."
"I am afraid this is not possible, Alexander. If you wish to disband your naval fleet before we reach Tyre, we must see to organizing this now." explained Nearchus, "Now that we have secured most of the towns along the coast line, the waters are calm. The best time to release the navy would be within the next few days".
"Ah of course" regretfully responded the King as he looked up to see Philotas talking to Hephaestion and the others, "The Navy will have little use for us once we move inland."
"I look forward to ridding the Athenians" smirked Parmenion, "I do not trust them and we would do better to send them home."
"Just the same, they have been useful in us gaining control of the seaports" quickly offered the Cretan General, "It's important for us to maintain our hold on these cities"
"I agree" replied the King, "That is why I will leave you behind Nearchus, as my trusted Satrap of Lycia and Pamphylia."
"Me Sire…." Replied the young general with a surprised look, "I am honored, but I would rather be with you and the others as the army moves….."
"You will do more for me here to guard my back." smiled Alexander as he held both arms of his old friend to press his point, "Should the time come and I need to recall you, I will know where to find you."
"As you wish Sire!" sadly accepted the young general as he bowed his head in slight gratitude, "Shall we go then?"
"Give me a moment." stated Alexander as he watched Philotas talk intently to Hephaestion who in turn look the less bit pleased, "Wait for me here."
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"Hephaestion!' called out the Philotas, "Ah good… you are here!"
"General!" saluted Hephaestion along side his two fellow comrades, "We just returned!"
"Excellent! Now my Captains, I think it is time you introduce yourselves to the new recruits?"
"Now, we have yet to put our kits down and settle…." groaned Seleucus his annoyance apparent in his tune and clinched fists, "Our horses are still panting from our ride."
"Captain Seleucus, son of General Antiochus, how long have you served under my command?" snapped the arrogant general, "Perhaps you grow tired of riding with the companions. Should I relieve you of the burden?" He stepped up to hold his subordinate's gaze, "There are many here who would seek your position…"
"Allow us a moment to set our packs down before we set out to train the recruits" interjected Hephaestion, as he placed a hand to Seleucus foreman to hold him in place, "We are more than capable, General!"
"I want you to drill them with their swords on horseback, then work on their skills with the javelin" commanded Parmenion's oldest son as he moved back to gain a better view of the three men, "The King has requested the new recruits be trained with the new maneuvers that I…."
"You mean the maneuvers I created!" came another voice from outside the encircled men, "General Philotas, you are not working these men to hard are you?"
"Sire!" bowed all three men, "My King."
"These men have only just returned, General Philotas," stated Alexander throwing a look of warning at the leader of his Royal Companions, "Surely there are others who…"
"My King!" interjected Hephaestion, "We are more than able to train the men. We ask only that we be given a moment to settle our kits and perhaps have a drink."
"A few training exercises would do me good Sire" offered Seleucus, suddenly renewed with energy, "After five days on horseback, I look forward to having my feet firmly on the ground."
The King studied the men before him. He looked at Hephaestion who remained motionless but stared directly at him as if to convey a secret message. Hephaestion gave a subtle short shake of his head pleading Alexander to not interfere. He was not to be given any special treatments or concessions. The young captain wished to be regarded like any other man in the army. Hephaestion was determined to be judged by his actions and to be promoted by merit only.
"As you say Sire" threw in Philotas, "You did grant me full authority to train the new recruits as I deemed fit and I …"
"Very Well" coldly cut Alexander his patience growing thin with his General, "I will hold you responsible for each man under your charge Philotas. They best prove their worth if you intend to place upon them this much attention!" He then turned to his lover, "Captain Amyntor, a word please!"
Reluctantly, Hephaestion stepped away with the King feeling the grins and prying eyes of those around him, "My King!" bowed Hephaestion as he stared up under his dangling stream of hair, "I had…."
"Phai!" softly whispered Alexander trying to appear inconspicuous to those watching. He kept his eyes a strayed, refusing to look straight on at his lover, fearful that his own emotions and desires would dictate his conduct. "Phai, I have missed you!"
"As have I!" quickly responded Hephaestion as he smiled slowly and serenely, "I had hoped we would be able to indulge in a …"
"An Afternoon delight!" nervously responded Alexander as he reached out to clasp his friend's forearm, drawing up the piercing blue eyes of his lover, "The large Oak trees near the river."
"Yes, the small river we discovered on our last ride out."
"After your training sessions" whispered the King with hope in his voice as he rubbed his index finger along his friend's arm, "We can meet then?"
"I look forward to it!" replied Hephaestion as he placed a hand over Alexander, "Just the two of us, alone!" The men exchanged a mischievous smile. For a brief moment they were young boys of Mieza scheming out their next rendezvous. Lost to their own world, they had not notice the sudden appearance of Parmenion and Nearchus. Regretfully, the two men quickly drew apart. Hephaestion moved away to the background as the King was led by the other generals towards the awaiting horses. The young captain sighed disappointedly as he swung his kit over his shoulder to head towards his tent. Having taken a few steps forward, his attention was diverted towards a loud whistle blowing in the air. Hephaestion half grinned as he came to recognize the vibrated high pitch sound. He turned in time to see Alexander rein his horse to him, "Do not forget Captain of our meeting later." Called out the King, "I want a full report of your findings."
"Of course Sire" blushed the Hephaestion, "As you wish!"
The boisterous wave of laughter was heard as the Captain's comrades and men walked up to join him. "Indeed you are loved by our King" teased Seleucus as he came in to whisper into his friend's ear, "I am certain he only wishes to welcome you back, properly!"
Hephaestion cheerily drove his friend aside as he carried his pack to his tent. "Come Seleucus, we cannot keep the new recruits waiting!"
"Ahhh… They are nothing but young bucks. Most are still wet behind the ears from weaning off their mother's milk. As always, they will know nothing of fighting or of staying atop their horse during a battle."
"You can serve as my example of a success story" laughed out Hephaestion, "Prove to them that even the most clumsily and challenged can become a worthy soldier!"
"If a guinea pig is what you need, then perhaps you should have Perdiccas accompany you!" joked the red haired captain, "He is far better at making an ass of himself."
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Later that Morning,
His body ached with every muscle and joint in his arms, down through his chest into his legs. He was sore to the very core of his mortal existence. Now within the confine and privacy of his own tent, the young captain allowed himself to be taken over by the throbbing pain radiating through him. Barely able to muster the energy to remove his own cuirass, Hephaestion flung it crumbled up onto a nearby stool. He scrambled momentarily with the knot of his belt until it became unfastened and tossed it atop his armor. He allowed his chiton to drape over him like a large tunic then quickly kicked off his dirt covered sandals. Finally alone and out of the watchful eye of his commander, Philotas, Hephaestion collapsed onto his small cot. The training drills with the recruits, compounded with the past five days of hard riding, were finally taking its toll on his body. Hephaestion stretched out on the hard bed with a sigh of relief. He welcomed the thin mattress over the firm ground he had slept on during the previous nights in the mountainside.
Hephaestion closed his eyes to take in some much needed rest. Able to block out the noise of the camp, the young captain exhaled waiting for Hypnos to take his hold. He would need to rest if he is to endure his meeting with the King. A moment of solicitude filled the room, until it was interrupted by the ruffled noise of the tent flaps opened up, followed by careful footsteps. With his arm folded over his eyes, Hephaestion knew well enough by the gait of the visitor's steps it was not the King.
"State your business!" mumbled Hephaestion as he slowly pulled the dagger out from under his pillow to place it upon his chest. The young captain took effort to make his weapon visible, to convey a clear message that he wished to be left alone. "I am in no mood for trivial matters!"
"Sir!" replied a timid and hesitant voice, "I was sent here by the King." With the mention of his lover, Hephaestion removed his arm from his tired face to turn into the direction of the young page. He glanced over the boy to quickly take note of the large tray of wine and a linen covered plate. "Sir, I have been instructed by the King to bring this meal and a massage to you." The boy extended out his hand to reveal a small scroll.
The young captain swung his legs over the bed and motioned for the scroll, as he struggled to mask his headache and muscle soreness. "Thank you Evando!" breathed out Hephaestion failing miserably to conceal his exhaustion. "Please place the tray there!" pointing towards his desk, "Do you know where our royal leader is now?"
"He remains with the commanders of his navy out near the docks" bowed the boy sensing the unusual harsh demeanor of the young captain. Hephaestion was a favorite among the pages for his patience and good humor. But today, it would appear the captain had been pushed over his edge. The man before him was a pale reflection of the usually jovial and handsome soldier. Hephaestion appeared exhausted and wrung out from the morning drills. Evando cleared his head to raise his eyes to find the Captain staring annoyingly at him. The page stammered forward, "He sent word to have his own meal brought to you" continued the page, "Along with this written message."
"I see" replied Hephaestion as he began to unroll the message, "Forgive my earlier greetings Evando, it has been a long morning!" Before reading the contents of the message, he waved at the youth, "You may go!" he instructed, "Please do inform me at once when the King returns!"
"Yes" bowed the young page, as he made his way out of the tent, "As you request"
Hephaestion waited for Evando to exit his tent before opening the scroll. Quickly, he read its contents and immediately his mood improved. Hastily written in Alexander's own hand, it stated, "Be still my heart; thou hast known worse than this…I know you Phai, striving Always to be best, and to be distinguished above the rest. Rest and eat! This is not a request!"
The captain smiled at the small note as he came to recognize the passages from the Iliad. Alexander, all too familiar with Philotas' harsh treatment, had sought to raise Hephaestion's morale and confidence. He smiled at the passages, familiar with their meanings. The verses had been the same lines used by Hephaestion on Alexander many years ago. As young boys, the captain had employed these same passages on the then young prince to lift his self confidence. These words had been effective in soothing Alexander especially after enduring the harsh criticism and public disapproval of his father, King Philip. But now as men, words were the most the young captain would allow his lover to use to inspire and motivate his own spirit. Alexander had long ago understood the limitation of his influence as King. He would not interfere, under any circumstance, with Hephaestion's assigned duties in the royal companions. Alexander would grant no favors or allot any special treatments. But of course there were small exceptions, such as a hearty meal from the King's table.
The captain looked across at the tray set upon his desk. The delicious aroma of spices filled the air as Hephaestion came to recognize the smell of roasted poultry. Feeling his own hunger pain rumble within him, Hephaestion sat aside his reservations with partaking in the King's own meal and pushed himself up off his cot towards the tray. He lifted the white linen cloth over the dish and was pleased to find a large succulent lemon herb chicken laid out before him, garnished with small apples. Unable to contain his excitement, he quickly pulled up a chair and dove into the meal relishing in the tasty bird. Having taken only a few bites, the Captain's feast was interrupted as the flaps of his tent were again pushed open.
"Hah! I see your favors with the King has granted you a better meal then most generals" scornfully called out a voice from the entrance way, "Why hide your shame in the confines of your tent?"
Hephaestion made no effort to acknowledge, more less salute Philotas as he reached out to pour some wine into a bowl, "I hardly see the act of eating as shameful!" countered the Captain, "Do you not have other, more important affairs to tend to, then to pester a hungry man."
The overconfident general walked up to the desk to look down at Hephaestion's meal, "Roasted chicken and imported wine!" observed Philotas. He then picked up the scroll to read its contents, "Ah of course, you are his Patroclus. Even now Alexander sleeps with the tales of Troy under his pillow." The General picked up a piece of bread, "Indeed as the King's consort, you are richly rewarded for your services."
"Do not fool yourself Philotas! You have gained more favors as Parmenion's son. There are obvious benefits with your relations to the King's second-in-command!" curtly replied Hephaestion suddenly a loss in his appetite. "Your household alone is by far larger and more opulent than the King's." He glared at the heavy fur coat of the general over a well made new chiton, "You live a luxurious lifestyle as the commander of the royal companions. Still, you humble me with your petty jealousy, espcially now over my meager meal."
"You seem to have forgotten who is the General among us!" snarled Philotas, "Your commander! Perhaps you see your bed skills working on the King, but I am different!"
"Truly Philotas, you are no Alexander! You know nothing of being a true leader!" Reached out Hephaestion to stop the General from indulging any further into his meal, "Our King is both generous and compassionate with his men. I am neither the first nor the last among his troops to share in his table."
"Of course Hephaestion, you too are Alexander." snide Philotas as he straightened himself up before the captain, "Yet you are nothing more than a captain under my command; thus far you have not proven your worthy as a soldier!"
"Far better for me to struggle and gain my status through merit then through the shadowing successes of my father." gnarled Hephaestion as the pushed the chair out to stand up and face Philotas, "It is well known that with your father's support and execution of Attalus were you promoted. Have you ever wondered if the only reason your father requested you be made a general was to monitor your continued incompetence and irrationality. Have you forgotten your debacle at Grancius?"
Both men stood face to face locked in a fury of rage. They held their fists balled up waiting for the other to make their move. Then without notice, the tent flaps are thrust open as Perdiccas and Coenus stepped in startled by the display before them. The presence of the others quickly encouraged the two men to resign their dispute. The General and his captain relaxed the tension in their bodies to step away from one another.
"Sir, your men are outside!" announced Perdiccas as he stared at both men, "They await your orders!"
"Good! Have them wait for Captain Amyntor!" Ordered the sagged faced General, "I have decided he will lead the squadron to the mountainside to reinforce our troops there!"
"Sir! Half the men are new recruits!" interjected Coenus, baffled with the General's sudden change in decision, "Rebel forces have been reported in the area… and I had thought we were riding them out to the coast."
"I am certain the Captain here will be able to prove his merit through his exemplar leadership skills!" barked Philotas as he glared sternly at Hephaestion, "He is only being sent to support the men until Cleitus returns from the coastline. I am certain the Captain will be able to handle such a simple task!"
"But these men are new and untrained!" warned Perdiccas, "Perhaps we should send members of Crateus' troops to…"
"Do you question my orders Perdiccas?" snapped out Philotas his brows furrowed up as he glared at other Captain, "Perhaps a few days in the stockade will remind you of your place!"
"There is no need! I will go!" announced Hephaestion in a harsh tone of detestation, "Give me a moment to gather my kit!"
"While we wait for Captain Amyntor, why don't you go and gather your own gear, Coenus. It might be best to send someone more experienced and talented to accompany him."
"With your approval, I too would like to join them" stated Perdiccas as he humbly stepped up, "Having trained with these new recruits for most of the morning with Hephaestion, I may be of use in controlling them."
"Of course the boys of Mieza stick together" softly laughed the General, "Go then but do so quickly!" Philotas waved to dismiss the men. He then looked across to Hephaestion, and then reached out for the decanter of wine and without any further recognition towards his men, he exited the tent.
"Forget him!" stated Hephaestion in complete disapproval of Philotas' irrational decision, "We have our orders!"
00000000000
Later,
Alexander pushed ahead of the riders as the tent tops of his army came into view over the horizon. He kicked his black stallion once more as he rode faster towards his pavilion. Yet another meeting had gone longer than anticipated and once more the King had been held back from his intended plans with Hephaestion. He was enthusiastic for his union with his friend and cared not that he was causing his guards to struggle to keep pace with him. The King turned to the noise of horses riding hard towards the Southern mountainside. "Ah Philotas and his squadron" thought Alexander, "Good now Hephaestion will be free from the torments of his commander". He groaned a small chuckle at the prospects of his afternoon with his friend. Alexander pressed on as he gave no further regard to the troops departing the camp.
As Alexander entered into the perimeter of the camp, his presence created a wave of euphoria among the men, who had come to recognize their King. The love and adore for their leader was apparent as an unexpected cheer and gala welcomed him. It would seem, word had spread over his army that the Athenians were being sent home. The Macedonians had no need for the unruly allies. Alexander waved proudly to his men as he made his way towards the royal compound.
"Your fellow Macedonians have little love for your navy!" stated Ptolemy as he reached out to calm Alexander's stallion, "Word of the Athenians' departure has stirred a wild celebration within your army."
"It's for the best we discharge the navy" agreed the King as he searched the faces of the men approaching him, "I will not miss their grumblings and arrogance." Again Alexander crooned his neck around his beak nosed comrade scanning for a familiar face.
"He is not here!" quietly announced the young General, aware as to who was the object of Alexander's search, "Philotas had ordered him out to reinforce the troops in the mountains."
"What!" How can this be?" exclaimed Alexander, upset, "He has not been given a moment of peace since his return this morning. I had thought he would still be training with the recruits."
"It would appear, Philotas had considered Hephaestion to be the most suitable of his captains to lead the recruits up the…."
"The recruits!" That is impossible!" replied Alexander in a stark tone, "Rebels have been reported attacking our men there. How would fresh, untrained men be able to hold up against these mountain tribes. Hades Balls! Where is Philotas!"
"Alexander!" carefully but softly pleaded Ptolemy, "Hephaestion accepted this assignment!"
"No matter! These men he leads are nothing more than boys!" angrily cut the King, "I had given no such leave for this!"
"Sire!" stepped up Seleucus in a futile attempt to calm their King, "Cleitus will be sent there along with his men upon his return from the Coast. He is expected back by mid afternoon."
"You must consider Hephaestion!" further offered the beak nosed General, "You cannot be seen running after your lover to protect him at every possible sign of danger! We all knock upon Hades' door. Think of Hephaestion and his pride!"
"Laomedon's men are up there." added the red haired Captain, "His men are well trained and experienced fighters. Hephaestion had been sent to supplement the troops already there until Cleitus' arrives."
"So now my Generals deem it fit to lead my army?"
"No Sire!" emphasized Seleucus, "I only meant to reassure you that Hephaestion will be out of harms way. You must remember this is Hephaestion!"
"He did leave you a message" announced Ptolemy as he held out a small scroll, in hopes of easing Alexander's concern, "Hephaestion said you would understand."
Alexander accepted the small papyrus and hastily unrolled the message to read it. He released a small muffled moan as he saw the passage written by his lover, "Grant 'me Love and Desire, with which you subdue mortals and gods alike'….. Within my heart lies… 'only one ruler, one king'. I will return soon! I have not forgotten of our Afternoon plans."
"Come Alexander, the men are waiting!" cautiously stated Seleucus as he gauged the King's mood, "Please follow us, Sire!"
"Men?.... Now what?"
"The cavalry is ready for your inspection." Seleucus further explained. "You had ordered them prepared and ready to perform your new maneuvers. They are waiting for you near the outskirts of the camp"
"Where is Philotas!" firmly requested the King, "Did he go with Hephaestion?"
"No Sire, he is leading the cavalry exercises for you outside of the camp!" tensely replied Ptolemy bracing for a fury assault by his King, "Philotas had thought it better if to be present for the demonstration."
"We will see about that!" curtly replied Alexander and he shoved his way forward, "Take me to him."
Later up near the Southern Mountains,
The sunlight blazed through the branches of the tall Pine trees creating a strobe light effect. Feeling uncomfortable with the enclosed pathway, Hephaestion led his men quickly through the cluster of trees. He raised his hand signaling Perdiccas to halt the troops behind them. A series of flashing light was seen across the thick wooded trail. Hephaestion at once pulled out his sword looking up for the location of the sun. With both hands, he took hold of his weapon placed it on its side and aimed it upwards. He tilted it slightly onto its flat side, to allow beams of the sun's rays to bounce off the heavy steel. Hephaestion rotated his sword's blade towards a batch of trees ahead of him. He repeated his motion until a series of flickering lights glimmered off his sword.
"What is it?" reigned up Coenus, "You see something!"
"We will know in a moment!" stated Hephaestion as he concentrated towards the thick and overgrown foliage of trees a short distant out, "Wait!" Once more, the young captain bent his sword at an angle to reflect off the sun's light. "There!" pointed out Hephaestion with his weapon towards a series of flashing light. "It is Laomedon's men. They are ahead of us" A loud whistle shot through the air and out from the forest merged a small band of riders. Hephaestion tugged his horse forward to greet his fellow captain.
"Amyntor" boomed out a loud voice, "You are a sight for sore eyes!"
"I had heard you were out here copulating with the locales" called out Hephaestion through a warm laugh. He pulled his stallion up to meet the lead rider, "It is good to see you Damien!"
"Last I heard you were scouting the other side of the mountain" exclaimed the captain of Laomedon's squadron, "I see Philotas is once again exerting his authority." Damien lifted his helmet to reveal a sharp faced middle aged man with a deep scar that ran diagnostically from his left brow to his right cheek. His dark eyes appeared almost hollow as his dark brown hair ran seamlessly down his well trimmed beard. The captain looked worn and older than his true age. Damien reached out to grip Hephaestion's arm to greet him. He then looked towards Perdiccas to access the youthful appearance of the men being led by Hephaestion. Damien's disappointment was apparent.
"Are you out here playing nursemaid Hephaestion?" stated Laomedon's captain as he surveyed the fresh faces before him. It did not take long for the experienced captain to recognize the new recruits. "I had hoped you would reinforce us. But from the look of your men, I would say you were sent out here to collect flowers."
"Most of the men with us are from Philotas' regiment." Offered Perdiccas, "The others are with Coenus."
"Where is that old dog?" replied Damien as he searched out his old friend, "Coenus still owes me a bag of wine!"
"Hephaestion had ordered the men to split up to cover more grounds" explained the blond haired youth, "Coenus should be nearby and …"
Suddenly, out of nowhere, a long piercing noise shrieked through the air, and then without further notice, one of Damien's men was hit by an arrow to his chest. A succession of high pitched screeches soon followed and enclosed the Macedonian men. The bright sun was overshadowed by a hail storm of arrows. "Hades balls!' hollered Laomedon's captain, "Hephaestion! Gather your men; we must get out of here!"
The young Amyntor swung his horse towards his troops and took sight of the confusion and fear consuming them. "Perdiccas!' yelled out Hephaestion, "Call the alarm! Warn Coenus!" The blond haired commander gave the signal as the horns were raised and a loud hollow growl boomed throughout the air. Without any hesitation, Hephaestion tugged his horse to rally his young troops out of the pathway.
"Ride! Keep your head down!" ordered Hephaestion, "Move!" All of a sudden a riot of screaming voices leaped from the bushes and from between the trees. An avalanche of fully armed rebel forces emerged from the forest. The invaders rushed from all directions to surround and overpower the Macedonians. Hephaestion was immediately swarmed by two men trying to pull him off his horse.
TBC
Thank you Stella for beta reading this! You are my rock!
Happy Birthday M! I hope to post the rest on your birthday weekend!! (But you know me slow as snail!) I may turn this into a series of short "Delight stories" but lets see how this first chatper is received!