-I presume there was no other solution.

Leonidas looked up from where he was sitting in the semi lit room of his home. He had returned couple of hours ago after the meeting with the Gerusia and he had been deep in thoughts ever since.

-And I presume you are not calling me to account brother.

Cleombrotus made a gesture of annoyance.

-I should have expected you to at least notify me.

The man of late twenties squared his shoulders before settling himself near Leonidas. His face was clean shaven, he kept his hair long and free, since he had not left his brotherhood yet, being still too young to be married. Unlike his younger brother Leonidas wore both moustache and beard running up his cheeks in a straight and narrow line; his hair was tightly braided and reached down below his shoulders, giving him a mature appearance.

-I had no time to dwell on the question; actions were immediately required to be taken.

He narrowed his eyes at the younger man.

-Do forgive me for not having run mindlessly around the city screaming your name in need for help.

Cleombrotus looked away in sudden shame, knowing that he was entering dangerous territory. He decided to change the subject.

-How is he?

-For someone having lost his mind?

Leonidas raised an eyebrow at him. Cleombrotus looked him in the eye, his face showing sudden anger.

-Why is it that every time I want to talk to you about something important I end up feeling stupid?

Leonidas calmly reached for a smaller pot of water motioning for his brother to serve himself.

-You need to find an answer to that question yourself.

-I AM no child Leonidas, stop treating me like one! I have passed the Agoge just like you!

He slowly stood, raising his voice to make himself clear, wanting to prove his point of view to his elder brother.

-A fit body does not necessary come with a keen mind. You need to gather experience before you can truly take part in life other than our militia. YOU are an adult, who is not ready for anything beyond becoming a perfect hoplite.

He stood as well placing a hand on his younger brother's shoulder in order to pacify him.

-I do not mean that as an offense. Your profession will one day bring you glory Cleombrotus. Be patient and you will find whether Sparta holds anything more for you.

-Yes, I might become King one day.

The young man stated confidently making Leonidas knit his eyebrows.

-Yes, that is one possible way your fate may one day enter, but I doubt that should be your major concern at this point of your life.

His features changed realizing what he had just implied. Yes he could become king; after the death of Cleomenes, Leonidas and Gorgo he would certainly be the next to take Sparta's throne. He also had to realize that it was unwise to voice a thought like that in the face of the Future king of Sparta. He averted his glance.

-What do you plan to do now?

Leonidas let him go stepping out on the balcony that was perfectly overlooking the city.

-The Gerusia decided to wait.

Cleombrotus watched him standing tall and erect with his back to him. It seemed like the wind that would be able to move him still had to be made by the Gods.

-We mayl need to seek council from the Oracle at Delphi.

He stated calmly.

-A council? What for? What is there to think about?

The young man demanded impatiently, walking up to him.

-More than you can imagine…

He could feel Cleombrotus standing close, his eyes boring into his back, but he did not face him.

-See, that is one of the reasons you are not ready for life outside of your brotherhood.

Cleombrotus clenched his fists, setting his jaw.

-I may BE unripe in your eyes brother, but I know one thing for sure. Cleomenes will loose power over Sparta; it is only a matter of days now I believe…

Leonidas set his brown Chlamys, an uneasy feeling getting the better of him.

-… and the same moment that will put and end to Cleomenes' time as ruler is going to make YOU the new king of Sparta, whether you like it or not.

He did not wait for his answer, but abruptly turned around leaving Leonidas alone with his thoughts, already heavy-laden with the perspective of the future the upcoming days may bring.