Descending the stairs, Estes went to the last man in their group. "And an Atlantean prince who is second cousin to the current queen ... Xan." Perfect in form and face, Xan had the kind of physique Styxx would give anything to possess. He kept working out for it, but so far ...
He had a long way to go. His muscles were highly defined, but very lean.
The group bowed before his father and then to him, except for Xan, who met them as equals. He shook hands with his father then turned a friendly smile to Styxx. "I've been looking forward to this since Estes invited me. I hear you're quite the man to ride with, Prince Styxx."
The unexpected praise made him decidedly uncomfortable. "I don't know about that, but it's a pleasure to meet you, Your Highness."
This should be an enjoyable week with my favorite pastime, and a handsome prince to boot.
Estes was right. He matches Acheron in every way, except Styxx has perfect, beautiful eyes. Fascinating.
I am so glad I changed my mind about coming....
Styxx shook his head as their silent comments assailed him and then tripped over each other so fast that he could no longer distinguish their individual words, which were a mixture of Greek and Atlantean.
"Gentlemen," his father said with the full diplomacy of his crown, "please come inside and rest for a bit. I have plenty of libations for your welcome."
Ryssa led them in.
Styxx pulled his father aside. "Why didn't you tell me of this?"
Why are you complaining? I wish I could spend a week with my brother and have no responsibilities.
"I didn't know he was bringing a retinue with him. But I don't see a problem with it. We both thought you'd enjoy a hunting retreat with your uncle away from the stress of the palace." His father left him on the stairs as he followed after the others.
Grinding his teeth, Styxx wanted to curse them all. Did no one in his family know the most basic thing about him? How could he share a home every single day with people who knew so little about his personality?
He couldn't stand being around strangers. At all. Nor did he care for hunting.
How do I get out of this?
Maybe Galen could break my arm again....
But the worst part? He had a bad feeling in his stomach that something awful was going to happen. He just didn't know what.
August 19, 9533 BC
Styxx couldn't remember the last time he'd been so happy. As much as he hated to admit it, he was glad his father and uncle had done this for him. It was wonderful to be off without his father nagging him and Ryssa's constant bitching. No tutors telling him how stupid he was. No glancing down hallways to make sure his mother wasn't there before he walked them. No wanton maids or women grabbing for his cock.
Even with his head throbbing, it was great.
I could definitely live like this for a while.
"Here." Estes gave him a handful of dried meat as they hid near a brook, waiting for deer to sniff out the bait they'd left for them.
Styxx quickly ate it. "That's delicious. What's in it?"
"A special herb that's only grown in Atlantis. We have nothing like it here in Greece."
"You should import it. You could make a fortune."
Estes smiled. "So they tell me." He handed Styxx a wineskin.
Styxx took a quick drink then lowered it as he heard leaves rustling where they'd dropped bait. Pulling his bow up, he nocked his arrow then leaned to sight it.
Estes moved to stand behind him, so close that he could feel his uncle's breath falling on the back of his neck. "Steady. Hold the shot."
His head cocked, Styxx waited.