The City of Delight

She slipped past the three and entered her room. Before Amaryllis

could gather resolution to protest, she was out again, clothed in

mantle and vitta and, walking swiftly, disappeared into the vestibule.

As they sat in the darkening hall, the three heard the doors close

behind her.

"She will return," said Philadelphus coolly, moving away.

Gathering her robes about her, Salome swept out of the corridor and

away. Amaryllis stood alone.

Somewhere out in the city was Hesper the Ephesian. Amaryllis knew that

Laodice would not return.