Marcus peered at the rows of figures on the scroll before him. Looking over his work, he quickly made another calculation adding it to the record then he set down the quill and straightened. A light rain brought the scents of autumn into the tablinum through the passage. Taking up the quill again, he resumed his task. Normally, Marcus found his work to be relaxing. Somehow, on this day, he felt slightly distracted. Hadassah would be finishing the children's lessons soon, then they would come into the atrium for play. He had just taken up the quill when Ianus appeared in the doorway followed by a thin, young boy. Ianus wordlessly stepped aside letting the boy stand before Marcus. He could see the boy's hair was plastered to his forehead from the rain.
"You have a letter, my Lord," he announced.
Reaching inside his cloak, the boy produced a scroll. Marcus took it, setting it on the marble table.
"Thank you." He nodded in a dismissive gesture, prompting Ianus to lead the courier from the tablinum.
Waiting until the footsteps had subsided, Marcus then pushed aside his records, anxious to read the contents of the letter. Like most of the letters he received, this one was probably more business dealings about investments. Breaking the wax seal, Marcus held open the scroll with the weight. A smile reached his eyes as he marveled at the first words.
My brother Marcus,
I am hoping this letter finds you and yours in good health. So many wonderful things have happened since I left Ephesus. Everything has come to pass just as you said it would.
I began to see His work on my voyage. When I returned to Rome, it was then I began to reap the harvest that had been planted. I found out immediately all my debts had been paid. I know it was you who saw to these details. This only affirms the sincerity of your friendship.
I am proud to announce I have been reunited with Amalthea and my son. She is now my wife, and we are happy together. The story is quite amazing. After I found out my debts had been paid, I went to meet our brothers and sisters. Amalthea was living in their care, just as your lady said. What happened to Amalthea is even more incredible than what has conspired with me.
I disclosed to you that I had put Amalthea into the streets once I discovered her to be carrying my child. One of our sisters found her in a terrible condition. She had no food for days and it was evident she had been beaten. It was during her convalescence she found freedom through Him and learned the power of forgiveness. While I was going through my own struggles, He was making a way the entire time.
I learned, after a long and difficult labor, Amalthea gave birth to our son. I presented her with the manumission document when I went to see her. She was still weak from the birth when I arrived, and so I sat by her bed side. I held her hand and fed her soup. When she placed our sleeping son in my arms, I knew I would never be the same. After I named our son, we talked for hours. I could not let myself leave without asking for her hand. I am overjoyed to say she gladly gave it.
That very evening, I put Amalthea and my son in a litter and had them taken back to my villa. After giving her freedom, I freed all my other slaves. This has only allowed me to find more freedom within myself.
I will not go on about the dealings of the senate as I know you are not interested in such matters. I will tell you that a way has been made for me to continue holding my position. When I returned, I expected people to scorn me still. Instead, I was welcomed. They all showed great concern. It was as though everything had been forgotten about my affair with the older senator's wife. Again, he used this to help me advance my position.
It is now that I will ask my great favor. Wonderful things are happening here Marcus. Even in the senate. He tells us where two or more are gathered He is present. I realize you have an obligation to your family. I asked you in Ephesus if you would accompany me to Rome. Now that I have seen His great work, I ask you again to come and see all that is happening around us. I believe even your lady would ask you to come. I await your response with great anticipation.
Your brother Antigonous
Marcus read the letter a second time. How Hadassah would be ecstatic when he shared the letter at mid-day meal. He knew Antigonous was right. Hadassah would agree with his decision to go to Rome. She would want him to go where he would be able to spread the good news. Taking a piece of parchment, Marcus picked up his quill. Saying a quick prayer over the blank page, he began to write his reply.
Marcus Tests Rashid
Marcus stood in the vestibulum with his back to the gate watching the sun rise over the villa. The click of the latch startled him causing him to turn abruptly.
"I could have attacked by now," Rachid said.
"Rachid, you are early," Marcus replied calmly.
In a swift motion, Rachid pushed his dark hair from his forehead.
"And the lady Hadassah?"
"I will be conducting this conversation." Marcus spoke firmly.
Marcus stepped forward, giving Rachid no choice but to back against the surrounding wall. The smells from the nearby shops made their way to him, making him think of the meal he would soon be enjoying with his family.
"I have asked you here on behalf of my wife. After recent events, it has come to my attention my wife is not safe to traverse Ephesus alone. It is apparent she needs protection."
From across the vestibulum, Marcus could hear an exchange of angry voices. Set on ignoring the altercation, he started to continue when he heard his name. Two men rushed from the shops on the outside of the villa.
"Lord Valerian will settle this."
The men approached Marcus. Cutting them off, Marcus said, "Not now. Whatever your business, it will wait until later." He waved his hand in a dismissive gesture causing the men to fall back. When they saw they no longer had his attention, the men turned and walked in separate directions. Rachid stood unmoving. His expression soured.
"I have been called away on business to Rome. Perhaps it is against my better judgement, but the Lady has asked that I secure you as her protector."
In a clipped tone, Rachid said, "She should have been guarded before."
Marcus put up his hand, stopping Rachid's retort. "I have not decided you are fit to guard my wife."
Rachid straightened to his full height. Shaking a finger at Marcus, "I've had to prove myself more than once."
By now, more people began to make their way toward the shops.
"There are conditions you will follow if I assign you this task," Marcus cautioned.
Rachid frowned down at Marcus.
"You will follow the decree given us by the Lord. You will not kill. You will be willing to risk your own for Hadassah's life."
A loud commotion caused Marcus to briefly turn his attention from his subject. He heard several pairs of hurried footsteps running toward the gate. Two children no older than Mark were trying to outrun one of the shopkeepers who was shouting.
"Somebody, stop those children!"
The group skirted Marcus and Rachid, still standing on the path to the gate. There was a scream followed by loud wailing. Marcus saw that the boys had collided with one of Hadassah's young maids. Without stopping, they continued their path of destruction with the tenant in pursuit. Meanwhile, Hadassah's maid lay sprawled on the stone surrounded by fresh flowers. Picking herself off the cobbles, the girl spotted Marcus. Wiping her tear-stained face with her shawl, she said, "My Lord, I apologize for my carelessness. Those were the last bunch of the lady's favorite flowers in the market."
Marcus looked down at the mess. "It is not important," he said calmly. "The lady cares more about your well-being then freshening our chambers for the day."
The rattled girl slowly made her way back inside the villa. His face set in a scowl, Rachid's shot daggers at Marcus. He continued to watch Marcus intently ignoring the incident. From the corner of his eye, Marcus could see the shop keeper marching the two boys back to his shop holding each by the neck of their tunics. Growing slightly impatient, Marcus sighed.
"Is it not apparent her life is most important to me," Rachid asked abruptly.
Marus nodded. "I have my own doubts, but Hadassah believes you are loyal."
Rachid nodded swiftly. "The lady is not often wrong."
Marcus let a long silence pass between them. Finally, he held up a hand and counted off his points on his fingers.
"First, as you know, Hadassah is very independent and devoted to her work. You will always stay a passus behind her. Never under any circumstances are you to physically touch Hadassah lest she be in jeopardy. Your dress is to be appropriate for guarding the lady Valerian. Do not speak to her unless you are spoken to."
"It is you who remains blind! We are loyal to the lady obviously for different reasons." Rachid spoke, his tone still aggressive to Marcus's requests.
Marcus let out a slow breath. Taking in Rachid's faded tunic and tattered cloak, he turned his sights to the Lord.
"God, please show me I am making the right decision."
After a long moment he spoke. "You will accompany my wife on an errand tomorrow."
"What time?" Rachid asked.
"Be here after the morning meal."
Rachid arrived promptly the following morning. He felt like a stranger in the fine linen tunic. He watched intently as Marcus escorted Hadassah to the gate where her special cart waited. Hadassah stepped on the platform and settled onto the cushioned seat. Marcus straightened and quickly scrutinized Rachid.
"It is not too late to send Ianus with you," he said to Hadassah.
Hadassah took Marcus's hand cradling it in her own. "Just as the Lord watches over us, he has sent Rachid to watch over our family," she said patiently.
"It is as you say,' Marcus replied. Giving a slight nod of approval, he bent kissing her cheek. "Go in peace."
"Thank you, Marcus." She brushed her lips against his before signaling to her driver.
Hadassah and Phoebe entered the commercial agora through the gate near the theater. They walked arm and arm through the square. Rachid followed at the required distance.
"Are you sure you wouldn't like a litter to carry you," Phoebe offered.
"Thank you," Hadassah said. "But it is not necessary. I walk."
The market was bustling with early morning shoppers. Vendors noticed Hadassah's fine attire and called out to her. She was forced to firmly push her way past them. She smiled sympathetically at a woman working on a loom trying to juggle her crying baby wrapped in her shawl. They gave the gold and silversmiths making statues a wide birth so they could cut through the crowded square. A man thrush his arm in front of Rachid dangling a necklace.
"Buy this for your lady," he said. "Genuine sapphire is sesterces well spent."
Rachid stepped to the side, quickly moving on.
The two men made their way through the agora. Careful to remain at a safe distance, they pretended to browse various goods. The larger man carried a parcel that hid his bandaged hand. He looked just like any other shopper with his reddish-brown hair. His companion wore a patch that covered one eye.
Hadassah finally stopped in front of a table containing medicine. Rachid waited patiently as Hadassah and Phoebe made their purchases.
"The mandrake will ease the pain caused by the fever," Hadassah said to Phoebe.
Phoebe nodded. Picking up several bottles and herbs, Hadassah made her selections.
"My favorite customer," said the vendor cheerfully.
Hadassah smiled. "I would like the Mandrake also please."
The vendor wrapped the purchases while Hadassah signed his ledger.
Hadassah and Phoebe turned and continued through the market. She next stopped at a shop that sold shoes. "I will buy a pair for the small boy we always see playing in the street."
"He will appreciate that. His sandals are worn," Phoebe agreed.
Hadassah picked up the small shoes. "These should fit."
Phoebe eyed the shoes. "Yes, I believe those will be perfect."
Hadassah nodded, satisfied, and spoke to the seller, "I would like to purchase these please."
The seller spoke in broken Greek as he produced his ledger, "Sign here."
Hadassah smiled again, taking up her parcel. Next, she began to browse wool fabric. "This will be just right."
"Do you think we need more?" Phoebe asked. "Our dear mother is going to make several new tunics for our friends."
Again, Rachid waited for Hadassah to finish her task. Meanwhile, the two men nearby grew increasingly anxious. Hadassah put down the pen from signing the ledger when she happened to look to the corner of the stall. A large brown dog was sprawled with four dark brown puppies. Noticing Hadassah's soft eyes, the vendor asked, "Would you like to take one of the puppies?"
Hadassah started, considering. "Oh my," she said. "I am sure the children would love it, but I do not believe my Lord would be pleased to find a dog in the garden."
"Decimus never liked animals. He said they belonged in the stable."
Hadassah shrugged. "I will just have the fabric today. I wish you all the best finding homes for your puppies."
At the insula, Hadassah got out of the litter. Hadassah and Phoebe took up their baskets of supplies and entered the building. Rachid stationed himself nearby. Children played in the muddy street and more litters carried their passengers by. Checking to see that his knife was in place, Rachid took in a cleansing breath.
At first, he did not move when he felt the tall presence come up behind him. He sensed the hand holding the burlap hood raise up to place it over his head. Without turning using his honed skill, the heel of Rachid's sandal connected with his attacker's knee crumpling him to the ground.
Rachid knew this move would only leave the man incapacitated for a short time. No sooner had the man fallen to the ground, a second attacker rushed Rachid. Rachid whirled around then forcefully kicked the man in the throat. Quickly grabbing the hood from the limp hand of the first man, Rachid thrust it over the head and eyes of his assailant.
A cart carrying hay was just passing by, so Rachid took his opportunity. He hoisted his hooded attacker into the wagon. Then, he easily picked up the first man still laying on the cobbles depositing him in the cart, before covering them with hay.
All the while, Rachid had kept one eye on the door. The men were being carried away when Hadassah emerged from the building.
The trip back to the villa was quiet. Rachid opened the gate while a servant helped Hadassah from her carriage.
Hadassah smiled and nodded. "Thank you Rachid. You have been most helpful. I am fine now."
"I will see you to the steps and know you are safely inside," he said.
Hadassah was lifted by her servant so she could be carried up the steps. She smiled again at Rachid before entering the villa leaving him standing alone in the vestibulum.
That evening, Marcus and Hadassah sipped wine on their balcony while watching the sun set. Hadassah's face brightened.
"Nain shall be walking soon," she said.
"He wants so much to keep pace with Ezra," Marcus agreed.
"His birth came at such a blessed time,' Hadassah smiled. "The Lord has blessed us in some way with the births of each one of our children."
"And he will again," Marcus replied.
Hadassah's eyes twinkled. Marcus took a sip of wine then said, "I am proud of how much our children are learning in worship."
"I pray their faith will carry them through to adulthood so they may go into the world and spread the Good News."
"Your faith carried you," Marcus said. "And you have changed the lives of many."
Marcus put a gentle hand on Hadassah's knee. "How has your day been?"
Hadassah's voice grew quiet. "It was peaceful. Mother Phoebe surprised me by going to the flower market early, so we had no need to go there. We are only a small few doing the Lord's work, but He is accomplishing great things. The children are asking their mothers to hear stories related to the scripture. His word is making a way into their hearts."
"You are doing a great work."
"I felt completely at peace as I went about my work today."
Without hesitating, Marcus said, "It is just as you said, the Lord has sent Rachid to us. As always, your intuition is correct. You can feel safe with him."
"Thank you, Marcus, The Lord has revealed this to you."
By now the sun had set. Hadassah set down her glass of wine and pulled her pallis around her. She scooted closer to Marcus, so they were shoulder to shoulder.
"It will be getting dark early soon. I know if you are ever caught out, Rachid will see that you are taken care of. I have made these arrangements because I sent my reply to Antigonous telling him he can expect my arrival in Rome."
Marcus started to continue when he was caught off guard by a sudden fit of coughing. His shoulders slumped as he clutched his head in his hands. Hadassah took up his wine glass holding it to his lips. Urging him to take small sips, she said, "My Lord, the night air has brought on this attack."
After he finally managed to catch his breath, Marcus sat up slowly. Hadassah examined his flushed face.
"Dear Marcus, how can I see you off to Rome knowing part of your illness still lingers? Come, let us go in so you do not chill."
Marcus put up a hand in protest. "It has always been your nature to care for me. You must trust in the Lord that I will be fine."
"Yes, but I could not in good conscience see you off without making sure you are in the best hands. So, I will ask you make one more provision for your trip."
Marcus started to speak, then he began coughing violently again. In the midst of catching his breath, he asked, "What is this of which you speak?"
"I want you to take our physician Soronus, should you be in need of care on your voyage."
Turning to face her, he clasped both of her hands. "My sweet Hadassah, know that I will take the proper precautions and avoid the night air."
"It concerns me you still take these horrible headaches when you get too tired. Even if you do what is right, Soronus knows how to treat these lingering effects of your illness."
Rubbing the back of his neck, Marcus leaned in toward Hadassah.
"It is only right that I leave our physician here with you in the event you or one of the children need to be tended."
"In my experience in working with a physician I know headaches cannot be underestimated."
Marcus closed his eyes tightly. "You need not worry. I know to rest when I take one of these headaches."
"Marcus, I must insist that you take Soronus, as Ephesus has many notable physicians."
"None that has such a wealth of knowledge and a practiced skill. It was a blessing that we found him."
"Should we need a physician for any reason, The Lord will provide."
Marcus held Hadassah's hands against his flushed cheek. He waited a moment before speaking.
"If I agree to take our physician, will it put your mind at ease?"
"Yes," she replied. "I know you will be in good hands."
Clearing his throat once more, he said, "And so I will ask again, what if a situation arises that you need a doctor?"
Hadassah withdrew her hand. Running it through Marcus's hair she spoke with finality, "Leave it to me."
Marcus let out a slow breath. "It will be as you say. I will see that Soronus accompanies us, to put your mind at rest."
Hadassah pulled her pallis in tighter to fend off a sudden chill. "I believe you will be glad of this decision."