Entering the dining room, it was obvious that Hercules' assumption was indeed correct. Everyone was already seated at the table, preparing to eat. All eyes shifted to the tardy diners and the room fell silent.
Phil, most of all, looked particularly peeved. It was very much like being on pubic display for all the world to see.
Meg tucked her new bow behind her back to hide it. She took immediate notice at Zebra's expression as she sat cosily next to Torrin; a slight look of shock, soon followed by a small smile of approval. She could only imagine what her friend might be thinking. She wanted to disappear. Trouble was, it would look more suspicious if she bolted now.
Avoiding any eye contact, knowing they were all focused on them both, Meg rushed to her seat, on Zebra's other side, keeping her face hidden within the shadow of her long hair. She kept her weapon hidden protectively hidden beneath the table. No doubt, Phil would not approve her having the bow. And she didn't want to get Hercules in trouble.

Feeling awkward, though not as embarrassed as Meg, the hero took his place at the head of the table and smiled.
"Forgive our late arrival", Herc excused, addressing those present. "I hope we haven't kept you all waiting too long."

Just then, Marlena came in with the evening meal. "Oh, Sir Hercules, you're just in time." She gently set the platter onto the table. Lifting the metal lid, she revealed another of her culinary masterpieces. That night's meal consisted of; fried Salmon, simmered in olive oil.

"This looks absolutely delectable, Marlena dear", Alcmene commented.

Marlena beamed. "Thank you, Ma'dam."

As the aroma traveled to each participant, there was no doubt that not only did the dish appear good, but their noses could agree that the smell was tempting as well. Which could only mean that the flavor would not disappoint.
The housekeeper served a portion to each member, along with some steamed vegetables.
Only after everyone had their meal before them, and their beverages had been poured, did the lady sit down herself.
Dinner was, for the most part, eaten in silence, except for the usual scrape of utensil against plate. Conversations began to stir when Marlena began her clean-up.

"That was a delightful meal, Marlena", Alcmene gushed. "I do wish you'd lend me the recipe."

The housekeeper smiled. "Its actually quite simple. I'll show you sometime."

Phil cleared his throat, to throw attention to himself. "So, kid, where did you disappear to after routine exercises?" Good ol' Phil and his perfect bluntness.

Meg froze. How would he answer?

Herc dabbed the corners of his mouth with a clean handkerchief. The perfect gentleman. After a brief stall, he shrugged. "I got distracted. Then I ran into Meg on the way in." Light and truthful, always the best choice in answer.

Relief flooded through Meg. Though she knew his response was solely for the purpose of avoiding trouble with Phil.

"Oh really?" The goat-man obviously wasn't convinced. "And what, pray tell, was so distracting that..."

"Hey Alcmene!" Zebra abruptly interrupted. "I got this scarf for you today in town." She pulled out the colorful cloth and presented it to Alcmene. It's silky borders were embroidered in golden Greek keys.

Alcmene was very touched and accepted the gift gratefully. "How lovely! Thank you, dear." To try it on for size, she wrapped the scarf about her neck. "You really shouldn't have."

"I can't take all the credit", Zebra admitted modestly. "Torrin lent me the money." She glanced to the handsome gentleman sitting next to her and blushed furiously as he sent her a smile.

"I thank you both." Being a woman of intuition, Alcmene could see a definite connection between the youngsters.
Amphitryon grasped her hand, communicating the love he felt for his wife through touch. It truly was a gift to be surrounded by so much love. She just prayed her own son would discover such satisfaction and contentment. There were high hopes for the future, after all.

Meg squirmed uncomfortably in her seat. The atmosphere around her felt awkward, of one she desired to escape. She played an over exaggerated yawn, stretching her arms high. "Boy, am I tired. I think I'll go wash my face and go to bed early." She stood up abruptly and gathered her dishes, leaving her bow behind, planning to return and retrieve it later. Not really looking at anyone she shuffled to the kitchen to deposit the used utensils. "Dinner was great, Marlena. Have a good night everyone", Meg managed to exhale in one breath.

Meg closed the door behind her as she entered the room designated to herself and Zebra. Relieved to finally be alone, she leaned heavily against the door at her back.
Now in solitude she was able to think. Unfortunately her body decided that now was a good time to reveal the ache and discomfort her muscles obtained from her archery lessons. She glanced down at her leather-protected arm, fingering the cloth. She carefully removed the strip, uncovering her injury. Blended colors of purple and green were a blotched pallet on her bicep. The bruise actually looked a lot worse than it felt, but she knew from experience that would all change by morning. Still, would that prevent her from continuing her lessons? NO WAY! Not a chance. Of course, that also meant spending quality time with the resident hero.
She groaned, holding her head between her hands, the whole situation was giving her a headache. Stifled, she realized she was still clutching Hercules' leather strip. She flung it aside, like it was a coiled snake, where it landed on top of a near-by vanity. There she saw a clay pitcher filled with clear water, along with a bowl and towel. Meg smiled. It could only have been Marlena at work again. That woman truly was a heaven sent, she knew just what a person needed.
She poured the water from the pitcher into the bowl, the sound of dripping, running water seemed to ease her nerves. She dipped the towel deep into the still warm water. Her eyes closed as the warming sensation traveled from her finger tips, throughout the rest of her body. Squeezing the excess water from the rag, she raised it to her face, softly wiping the grime from her face in slow strokes.
Now that she was able to properly relax, it was realized how tired she actually was. The incident with the barn still left her lungs weak. But in time, her full strength would return. It was lucky she hadn't been killed. If Hercules hadn't been there.........
Her mind was going in circles again. She threw the towel annoyingly back into the bowl. Why was she thinking of him now of all times? Why was he popping into her thoughts when she was suppost to be winding down? It didn't make sense. Nothing made sense, as of late. Why?! Argg!
It was even exhausting to think about.
Deciding she'd given the day enough of her attention to complete it, she slipped off her dress, and carefully folded it, placing it in a chest at the foot of her bed. Left in her undergarments, she found herself fit and ready for a good nights rest. As a final touch to her nightly attire, she tugged her hair band from its tight position, suspending her hair in place. Her auburn locks fell long and free in coiled curls, reaching down to her upper thigh. Meg sighed to herself. It always felt good to let loose ones restraints.
Moving toward the bed, she noted that the blankets had been pulled taught and tidy. Marlena's work, no doubt. It was so different, having such normal routines done for you. (Not like Meg periodically made her bed back home) But she had learned to take care of her own needs, and it was weird to have such tasks done for her. So many drastic changes in such a short lifetime was quite overwhelming when one took the time to muse over the details.
She sat heavily on the bed. How many more life changing trials could she absorb and accept before she fully lost control of her own future? Groaning, she crashed her hands over her face and fell back on the bed, in an attempt to keep her mind from exploding.
Overwhelmed, she pulled back the blankets and tucked herself within. Turning on her side she cuddled closely to the pillow at her head. Was all this truly meant to happen, or was it all a misfortune accident? She didn't know, but without a doubt she'd be there to find out. Her eyes closed softly and was relieved when sleep finally clouded her distressing thoughts.

"I wonder why Meg was so tense at dinner", Zebra stressed.
Her and Torrin were lounging together in the parlor, talking into the night.

"Who's to say for sure?" Torrin responded, resisting the urge to wrap an arm around her shoulders. Of course he didn't want to ambush his feelings onto her too quickly. Though she would have gladly welcomed the attention.

"She almost seemed embarrassed about something."
Torrin nodded, he'd noticed this as well.
"And Meg doesn't embarrass easily, unless it ultimately violates her pride", she scoffed. "Sometimes she can be so stubborn, there's no getting through to her." Zebra stopped, realizing she was ranting. It wasn't a subject she had practice in reciting.

Unfortunately, Torrin wasn't interested in discussing Megara. His primary interest was Nye at hand. "I think we've talked of Meg long enough. I'd really like to get to know you better."

Zebra flushed, surprised by his request. "Oh, well, what do you want to know?" She distractedly tucked a loose hair behind her ear.

Torrin inched closer at her side. "For starters; what are your dreams, your hopes for the future?"

Bowing her head shyly, Zebra shrugged. "Well, I really like science, uncovering new puzzles for the betterment of man-kind, much like my grandfather. That's one of the reasons why I want to find him."

"What are the other reasons?" Torrin looked away, fearing the answer.

"He's our only hope of returning home."

"And......you want to leave?"

Zebra smiled. "When you say it like that it sounds less appealing." She thought of her reply, but there was no denying her reluctance. "I really love it here. But Meg feels differently, she's bound and determined to go back."

"Perhaps we could persuade her otherwise", Torrin hedged, coming to his feet. "Anyway, I wouldn't worry about it too much." He offered her his hand. "We should probably get some sleep ourselves."

She stared at the young man's palm, hesitating. Then her courage came through and she carefully slid her petite glove like hand into his. She felt her skin tingle with excitement as his fingers closed round hers. With his assistance, she easily rose to her feet.
Relatively close now, their gaze was momentarily lost in each other. Becoming self-conscience, she ducked her burning face.

Torrin could only smile. He then slid her hand to place it gently on his forearm. "Please allow me to escort you to your room, fair maiden."

Words escaped her grasp. Zebra could only nod her consent.
Torrin led the way past the corridor of rooms. Zebra felt the play of his lean muscles beneath her hold on his arm and her stomach lurched with excitement.
They strolled along in silence until they finally reached her door. Still, neither wanted to separate.
Torrin gazed admirably into her eyes and gulped down a great lump.
The mood was perfect. He was supposed to kiss her, right? But as he looked upon her gentle face, the shadow from the hallway torches heightening and mystifying her beauty, he just couldn't pluck-up the courage to take such a bold initiative and do it. Somehow, it just didn't seem right to steal a kiss from a maiden who was so innocent and fair. But, he also couldn't leave her with nothing. So, instead, he raised her hand to his parted lips and kissed the back of it. The delicate handle and the press of his lips befitted that of a princess.

"I wish you sweet dreams", he whispered before departing.

Zebra watched him leave, cupping a hand over her heart as she feared that it might race from her chest and take off after him. During these moments, the last place where she wished to be was back in her dead-end life. If things continued to progress in the way she hoped, perhaps THIS could be her future, forever where her soul called; home. It was almost too much, to dare such a dream. But for once in her life, she wasn't afraid to face these wondrous possibilities. She was determined to meet them head-on.
Zebra jumped slightly as she slipped from her personal illusions and turned to go inside.
Opening the door, a small triangle of light ebbed into the room, illuminating from the hallway, and softly landed across the sleeping form of Meg. This sight almost made Zebra's heart sink. Meg wanted to return home, and would do almost anything to do so. Then Zebra thought about how Meg acted during supper, it wasn't in her personality to be so anxious and nervous. Could it be perhaps Meg wanted to leave this evolving life to escape from something in the development?
Zebra quietly closed the door behind her and softly padded to her best friend's bedside. Taking a moment to allow her eyes to adjust with the darkness, she gently stroked Meg's hair with the affection of a sister she'd always believed they were.
A smile shone bright upon her silent face. Things would work out for the best. she just had to believe it. Zebra then changed into her nightgown, pulled back the blankets on her bed, and folded their surrounding comfort around herself, shifting a moment before feeling satisfied. 'Things just have to work out for the better', she repeated in her thoughts, again. 'They just have to'
She finally settled into sleep, dreaming of a bright future.

Meg deliberately rose early the following morning. Dawn had barely begun to break into the newly born day. Good thing she'd gone to bed earlier than usual the previous night.
Slowly, she sat up in bed and carefully tossed aside the covers, her eyes automatically centered where Zebra continued to slumber away, turned on her side facing the wall, the occasional nasally snore rumbling from her throat. As she watched her, Meg wondered how long after she retired to bed did Zebra follow. Still in the comfort of her dreams she rolled over, now facing Meg, and exhaled a long contented sigh, a satisfied smile spread across her lips. Guessing from her gushy expression, Meg had a stabbing feeling who'd planted it there. She shook her head; It was amazing, the effects a man can have upon a woman. They could make you feel as if you're souring amomgst the clouds of heaven at breakneck speed, then instantly turn around and smash your dreams to dust without a trace of remorse, leaving behind a hopeless, bitter shell from a once glowing spirit.
Meg allowed a small wave of painful past visions to pass through her, clenching the blanket beneath her as vast images filled her mind. Believing, in doing so, made her stronger. Like any exercise, when done correctly and often enough, your body can overcome certain obstacles. She compared this particular 'exercise' to strength and weight resistance training; The burn and agony as the muscles break and tear down when they're forced to exertion, then gradually repairing themselves into a larger, more improved form. It takes dedication, discipline, and continuous activity to build ones physical power. So she had taken this process and applied it through her struggles of emotional downturn.
Though it happened long ago, she could still picture it so clearly.
("It's not like we're married or anything.")
Josh's mocking voice bounced off the walls of her concentrated brain, like within a pinball machine. Her body vibrated with renewed anger. Only when another of Zebra's startling snores droned, did Meg finally snap out of her personal trance. She released slowly, pushing away the feeling that had engulfed her, and released her white knuckle grip on the blankets, sensing the relief as the weight of the emotions were dropped. She swung her legs over the side, her feet meeting the cold tiled floor like a slap in the face, preparing to survive another day in a foreign land. She found her dress where she'd left it and slipped it over her head, running her hands down the fabric to eliminate the wrinkles that had set in over night. Then combed through her hair with the brush they had been graciously provided with. When her Auburn locks were free of tangles and left smooth, she lifted her hair above her head and started brushing upward from the neck-up. With her hair in place, gathered tightly in one fist, she then retrieved her hair band with the other. Positioning this against her fist, she pulled her thick hair through the opening. After repeating this step a couple times over, her hair was in the desired position of her signature style. As an after-thought, she took along Hercules torn- leather strap. Who knows? She may need it.
Satisfied, Meg proceeded to exit the room, keeping an steady eye on Zebra's form as she carefully, and slowly closed the door behind her.
The hallway flames had already been long since dowsed, leaving it in a dim, Grey mist as daylight slowly colored the darkened sky. Thankfully, it was just enough for Meg to navigate to her secret destination. She just had to make a brief stop before continuing on her main quest.
All was deathly quiet and still as she made her way into the dining room. She estimated it was still a good 1/2 hour before the rooster cawed and drug everyone from their leisurely rest. Plus, the colder months tended to cause folks to sleep in a bit later than they usually did in the Spring and Summer, allowing the earth to warm up as much as possible before working outdoors. So this gave her more time before she might be discovered.
Rest assured, she wasn't up to any mischief, but she still preferred that no one knew of her actions, she already felt embarrassed as it was; Being alone with someone when you would normally avoid that person. To her relief, her bow was right where she'd left it the previous night. It hadn't been discovered. She bent down and retrieved it from beneath the table, where it had been carefully wedged between the wooden boards that made up the luxurious table. She eyes glanced her surroundings, finding the coast clear, she stood upright. Remembering the Winter frost, she retrieved a cloak that was near at hand Outside now, she made her way into the yard, the brisk chill of the icy morning air nearly stole all breath from her healing lungs. Unable to locate what she sought there, Meg had to think of where else to search. Her gaze swept across the wide expanse, wondering where else she could possibly look. Nothing seemed to stand out in her mind until she caught sight of a circular structure standing-out in the distance. It appeared to be a sort of arena or stadium, almost shaped like the famous Colosseum of Rome, which had not been built yet, but not as enormous as the historical edifice.
Meg smiled. She slung the bow over her shoulder and headed toward the building, hugging her cloak tightly about her body as a rash of goosebumps began to spread through-out her limbs.