#polykarpos

Soon the whole family was helping out getting the new place livable.

It was hard work, but Nashuja had brought with him some very useful tools, like the bronze hand saw, so much better than the flint ones they had used before.

Hdjakina, Nashuja's teenage daughter, had been helping her father before, and was a skilled and strong worker.

Even Noor was there to help. She sorted the rubble to find material that might be reusable.

It was undoubtedly Nashuja who was in charge. He led the work in a safe and knowledgeable manner, and in it was going forward faster than anyone would have imagined.

In just a few weeks they had a roof over their head and the basic facilities.

Of course Nashuja had bigger plans for the house, and it actually took him a year to finish the house. If one can even talk about "finishing" a house, since there will always be something to repair and improve - even for sims.

But now we are anticipating the course of events. There were other tasks that would be placed on Nashuja's shoulders that were more pressing. Among other things, he was given the responsibility of the full reconstruction of the Agorá. A great honor, but still not the most important thing, as it turned out.

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Early next morning the two kings went for a long walk. They both felt this was the best environment for an openhearted discussion.

- It's not a small matter you are asking. You are my son-in-law and I want to help you, but I also have to think about our people. A war now is not going to be received well...

- I realize that. I wouldn't ask, if it wasn't exceptionally important, in fact, this threatens the entire existence of Manthos. I understand if you decline. I would be terribly disappointed of course, but I would understand.

- I believe, like you, that the man should be stopped, I just don't know if it is possible.

- He has a big army, that's true. However, I don't know how loyal they are? He is said to be cruel even with his own men.

- And your sister? What will happen to her?

- That is... King Mijararos swallowed, I'm afraid I don't see how it would be possible to get her out alive. We have some spies in Koilada Chalkou, but the king keeps Ofelia very isolated. We will try to warn her, but...

- I'm really sorry, son. I know it could have been Euthalia in her shoes.

- The weddings of Ofelia and Linos was a huge misjudgment from my part. If it wasn't for that we wouldn't be in this mess.

- Well, I wouldn't be so sure about that. Turunusemis have always made trouble, and he always will evidently. If he wasn't fighting with you, he might have harassed us, or Kastanea, or Katafygio. Or all of us. Believe me.

- That might be true.

- I have decided. Let's stop this man once and for all. Or at least let's try.

- You don't want to discuss it with your wife? Mijararos was surprised. Or your advisors?

- I don't think I need to. I already know what they think, they would say no. This will probably not be the easiest war to fight. But it is the right thing to do.

- Thank you. I don't know what else to say. You don't know how much this means to me. And Manthos.

- I do. Still, I also do it for myself and the people of Selinódasos. A neighbor like that would probably set fire to us sooner or later. Attack is the best defense.

In Manthos the autumn was also on it's way, but the trees were still green and the temperatures mild. The farmers were pleased this year, because the olives were plenty and chubby. However, there were clouds in the horizon.

Polykarpos first heard about the new enrollment for the Manthos military at the Lykeion. Everybody talked about it, especially the boys.

- I feel torn mother, because on the one hand it is dangerous and frightening, but it is also honorable. They say it's just training camp, but why would they enroll, if it wasn't serious?

- I don't know what to say son, because I haven't heard about it until now. For sure war isn't romantic, so I really hope that you won't volunteer? I just remembered the problems with your cousin Pamesijos.

- I won't do anything without you knowing about it mother.

- Good! Shhh shhh shhh! Eira tried to calm down the baby.

- Why is she crying? Isn't she crying a lot?

- Naah, all babies cries, she just don't like it when I stop cradling her.

After Polykarpos had left, Eira had a deep frown on her forehead. Now she was worried about the enrollment, but also the baby.

- You really are crying a lot, aren't you? And you are not eating well. Is there something wrong with you moráki mou? Maybe the goddess is punishing me...

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Eira and Yousif decided to follow through with the second blessing at the temple. They would now be officially married.

- You are my light and my joy..., Yousif choked up.

- I've never seen your mother so happy Bansabira, Noor whispered.

- True, Bansabira whispered back, we are really happy for her. It felt a bit strange in the beginning, but Yousif is a really nice person.

- I do except your ring, Eira answered Yousifs proposition.

Noor had prepared the food, and plenty of it.

There were dancing, of course, as in any other wedding. It didn't matter that the bride and groom were much older than wedding couples usually were.

Since Yousif didn't have a house of his own in Manthos, it was more practical that he moved in with Eira, than the other way around.

- Are yous sure you are okay with it? Eira asked Yousif, for what must have been the tenth time. Moving in to my late husband's house?

- I promise you my darling, I don't mind. I think he would be glad if he knew that someone took care of you, since he can't do it himself. And take care of you I will. Every single day for the rest of my life.

- Oh Yousif... I'm so happy. I think I might burst.

Eira had expected some tensions when everyday life started, but there wasn't. Yousif was attentive, and tried to help in the kitchen and the garden, and Eira let him. For the most part.

In the evenings they still went for long walks.

And at night they enjoyed having the other close.

But that autumn Eira became more and more redrawn. Clearly something was wrong.

And as so many times before, Noor was the one she turned to for advice and comfort.

- Are you sure? How is that even possible?

- I'm sure. I was thinking it could be menopause, but my belly is starting to be swollen.

- Have you told Yousif?

- I haven't. I'm afraid how he will take it. I'm pretty sure this is not what he had hoped for. None of us really.

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A couple of months later there were new visitors in Manthos.

- My dearest Yousif! I can't believe you are here!

- Sister! You are just as beautiful as I remember, time has been kind to you. You must be the prettiest woman in Manthos!

- Pff! Goofus! Now who is this handsome young man?

- That's my son Samuel, Fifi! Unless you were referring to me?

- Haha! You haven't changed a bit! Now come in!

- I'm so glad you are here my brother. It's been too long.

- I agree. We are so happy to be here, sister, and I'm really sorry to hear that your health is not the best.

- I am an old woman you know, it was bound to happen sooner or later. But let's not dwell on that. You should find something to eat, Kyria Noor has prepared some lovely dishes.

- Don't you want to eat with us sister?

- I don't have much appetite these days, but I will keep you company for a little while. How long will you be staying in Manthos?

- We haven't really decided, but at least until next full moon.

- Good, then we have time. We have a lot to talk about.

After setteling in for a few days it was time to pay a courtesy visit to Eira, who had invited them for a glass of wine. Even if Yousif Eláïom and his son talked fluent Simsk, they had foreign manners. Eira felt a bit awkward at first, but later found it quite charming.

- Dear Kyria Simintha, it's such a joy to meet you. We had the pleasure of meeting your husband several years ago. I'm delighted to see he has such a beautiful family.

Khará and Bansabira were excited to meet a new and handsome bachelor, and it seemed the excitement was mutual.

- So how is your sister Kyrie Eláïom? Is she feeling better?

- Please call me Yousif. Unfortunately my sister is not much better. I'm glad we dropped everything and came immediately, because it seems we came in nick of time. Thank you so much for calling upon us.

- Actually it was my sister Noor's idea, I'm not sure if you have met her yet?

- I have! A very charming lady, much like yourself!

Eira blushed a tiny bit. She wasn't used to getting so many compliments, and didn't know how to respond.

- Oh dear, she thought, I hope he doesn't misunderstand my friendliness...

.

- I don't know if the girl knows or not, but you will never guess who attacked him!

- Well tell me! Who?

- They told me that Olimáchos had a thing with Lykrevia Troizena, and that Lykrevia's father was very upset about it and beat him up. Badly. Some say he might not survive, but I'm sure they're exaggerating.

- Lykrevia's father did that? Aranare? Amunet's husband?

- Yes! Can you believe it?

- Holy Astanna! Who would have thought ... I'm shocked...

- The situation for Mpatíni will be even more difficult now that her brother can't protect her. Even if it's temporary. At the moment he can't even stand on his feet they say. And if he dies...

- Oh no! This is terrible news! Well that's it. I can't let this happen. The girl will move in here. As Teo's wife to be.

- Are you sure Noor? People might talk.

- Oh, I'm sure they will. People will always talk. In the past it used to be me they were talking about. And Mpatíni doesn't deserve it, she is a nice girl and didn't do nothing wrong. Eira, will you support me? Will you stand by me? And Teo and his wife?

- Of course Noor. Always. You are my sister. And I feel for the girl as well, I never understood why people were so mean to her.

- I can always count on you Eira. Thank you. And now we will have a wedding to plan, I guess! I bet you didn't see that coming when you came over for a tea and a chat!

- I sure didn't haha!

It was Teo that got to brake the news to Mpatíni, both the good news and the bad news. The circumstances may not have been ideal, but the young couple were very happy to be able to tie the knot.

Just a few months later they got married. Spring was on it's way, but it was still cold when the young couple had a simple home marriage. Mpatíni was looking very pretty (but a bit cold) in a dress Noor and Eira had remade from one of Simadhne's dresses, and with a beautiful braid made by Areth and Bansabira.

It was of course unusual to have a wedding at this time of the year, and there were not many guests outside the family. Mpatínis brother was still not well after the fight with Aranare, but was helped, or should we say carried, to the house to be able to attend.

Kyria Figaleía had politely declined at first, but changed her mind when Noor and Eira hinted that they soon would have to discuss the marriages for three young ladies: Areth, Khará and Bansabira. The presence of Kyria Figaleía was very important, especially for the bride, because no one could turn the tide of public opinion like Kyria Figaleía.

It was a smart move, and a successful one. When the summer came, nobody talked about Mpatíni anymore. Despite of (or perhaps precisely because of) the fact that her brother Olimáchos never recovered from his injuries after his unpleasant encounter with Aranare. A few weeks after his sister's wedding his condition worsened, and he past away. And fingers pointed at Aranare.

Everyone was sure that Aranare had killed him, but there was no way to prove it. Nevertheless, he had to pay a heavy price. It turned out that Lykrevia secretly had married Olimáchos and she was also with child. Now she refused to have anything to do with her father, and survived by picking fruit and olives around Manthos, as her husband had previously done. Evil tongues meant she was also becoming a bit insane, but, you know, people have always had something to say about single mothers.

Anyway, on this winter night, after Mpatíni and Teo's wedding, it was all peace and happiness. And maybe, (well we don't know this for sure, but we can speculate, right?) just maybe, the foundation for a new generation of Asijakas were laid, just this night.

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[End of chapter 10]

Truly, I appreciate so much all the likes and comments on my story so far. It does mean a lot, and I am very grateful. 💕

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- Did you finish your homework Polykarpe? You know your father will be displeased if you didn't.

- But mom, it's so difficult! Can't you help me?

- I want to talk with auntie Noor now, but maybe Khará can help you?

- He is growing up Polykarpos. You must be so proud of him.

- I am! I'm proud of all three of them, and I'm also very happy that they are not babies anymore. Finally I have some time for myself. Now tell me, how are you? How is aunt Simadhne?

- Well you know, she is getting older, but honestly I'm a bit worried about the changes. Yelling at the kids, something she never did before. And can you imagine Simadhne, who was always so obsessed with cleaning, now she can go for days with out washing herself!

- Oh dear.

- Yes it is obvious to me that she is not in her right mind. I don't feel comfortable leaving the toddlers alone with her. Honestly, I feel I lost a helpful babysitter, and got another "child" to take care of in return.

- Ugh, Noor I'm so sorry. Is there anything I can do? Is she eating?

- Yeah she is, and don't worryt, it's not a big problem. Not yet anyway. And you know, I'm used to take care of grown up people, as well as children. And Teo is a big help, he really is. But he does miss his brothers. Like we all do.

- Yes of course. Maybe that's why Simadhne is going a bit crazy as well? She was so attached to Nashuja ...

- It was hard for her when he and Pamesijos left, that's true. I wonder how they are ... It reminds me of two other teenagers leaving everything behind to go on an exciting journey.

- Oh Goddess yes. The θάρος we had!

- Well you had, you mean. I was not very brave.

- I think we both were braver than we are today. I always thought one would get stronger and tougher as one gets older. I'm surprised, 'cause it's not like that at all. I feel much more fragile and mushy today.

- Maybe we were simply more stupid back then? Noor laughed, Me too I feel more vulnerable than before, especially in some situations, but I also know I am stronger and more robust than people think. And in general I don't care what people think, at least not like I used to.

- Really?

- Yes! It's such a waste of energy worrying about it. I did it all my life, for what reason? They don't know what I know, they don't have all the facts, and still they judge. I think it says more about them than about me. So now I don't give a damn what they think.

- I wish I could say the same. But you know, Teteriu is so uptight and particular about his reputation. It feels like a prison sometimes.

- That's the freedom of being at the lower end of the social hierarchy, sister! Not that I think you should strive for it!

- Haha! No I wont do that, but seriously; I don't think people perceive you that way. I think people respect you and admire you.

- You do?

- Yes! You are a really good mother, and a hard worker, a good cook and a really nice person. That's what I think people think of you!

- Now when you put it this way, maybe I should give more attention to what people say anyway!

.

The first weeks were very hard on Eira. She was always surrounded by family and friends, but it was hard to come to terms with the fact that she was now alone, and the head of the family.

- You will manage, Noor comforted her. You are stronger than you think.

- I'm just wondering if he knew, Noor. Because Mezamura tells me he has left valuable stones with her husband in case something happened to him.

- No, he did that a long time ago, Mezamura clarified, I believe it was just after I got married, actually.

- No matter what, he wanted you and the children to be safe. Noor reminded her. It was very foresight of him. At least you won't have economical problems now. That helps, doesn't it?

- I guess.

Months passed and Eira was still burdened with guilt and grief. Noor was always trying to support her sister, but Eira seemed inconsolable.

She refused to go to the Agorá or any other public place, and when asked why, she said she was to ashamed. She was like in a self-imposed imprisonment in her own house.

- You have to explain to me sister, because I never understood why you felt responsible for his death. You were not even close when he died, so why?

- The thing is that for years I hated him. I did! I blamed him for my own unhappiness, my lack of fulfillment in life. There were moments I actually wished he was dead. I wanted him dead, and then he died.

- So you think you killed him by thought? Eira, you know that can't be. Let me ask you this; if I told you I killed Telamon, would you agree?

- Of course not!

- Honestly, I had those thoughts as well some times, when he made my life a living hell. It's human. It doesn't mean I killed him. And you didn't kill Teteriu either.

- But it's not the same! You loved him! And he loved you too!

- Yes! And I know you loved Teteriu, so stop pretending that you didn't. You hated that he controlled your life in a way you didn't like, but you still loved him. And he loved you too! Just look how he provided for you. Even when he is not here!

- That's true. He always wanted to protect me, and provide for me. In the wrong way, but his intentions were good. I guess he did love me in his own way.

- Of course he did! Eira, you need to forgive him for his wrongs and remember the good things in his life. And you need to forgive yourself. Let's go to the temple tomorrow, please. I will bring a chicken and a keg of spirits for offering. We will pray, and we will feel better, right?

- Okay. Oh Noor, I'm so stupid. I miss him so much, I really do.

- Of course you do. And you always will. But life will become easier with time, I promise you.

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And Noor was right, life did become easier. Eira and her children found a new rhythm without Teteriu. As time went on there were fewer moments of deep grief, and more moments of enjoyment.

Khará and Bansabira, now both teenagers, were very different as persons, but had a good relationship between them. Khará took more after her father, she loved philosophy and analysis, and was calm and collected, you might even perceive her as a bit cold. Bansabira on the other hand, had her mother's emotional and artistic temper. She also wanted to pursue a academic career, but her true passion was in art.

Polykarpos, the "baby", was the one who could make them all laugh, even in difficult times. He was often teased by his older sisters, but he usually managed to tease them right back. Eira always said that he always reminded her of her brother Toidr.

- Was he funny mother?

- He was the funniest person in the whole village, Polykarpe! He was everybody's favorite!

- Just like me!

At the Asijaka household things were also going well, relatively speaking. Like everybody else in Manthos they were surprised with the snow that winter, but thanks to Noor's knitting skills, at least all the children were provided with warm clothes.

Noor's biggest headache however, was not how to keep her children warm, but how to stop the constant bickering and fights.

- Astanna have mercy on me, she complained to Eira, I don't see nothing but sour faces from morning to night. Not a smile, no kindness, no rest. Who raised these kids?!

- Haha, they seem perfectly normal to me?

- Normal? Well, maybe when they are with other people, but if I leave them alone I swear they would try to kill each other.

- I'm sure you're exaggerating Noor, it can't be that bad?

- But it is! And Phaidros and Areth, who are older and should be an example to the others, they are the worst! It starts with just teasing or pranks, but then it escalates to vicious fights and screaming and shouting, and the whole neighborhood gathers to see what's going on!

- My Goddess...

- And the younger ones take after them! Tychon has just figured out how to fill Myrto's dress with snow, and she screams of course. I really have to do something.

- What are you thinking to do?

- I don't know! I don't know if it can be stopped by anything but growing up.

- If it helps, I understand completely. I have children too.

- Pfff. Your's are angels compared to mine. Jokes aside, I am actually considering finding a husband for Areth, but I'm torn. She is a now a young woman, but .... this marrying children away is not easy, I'm sure you agree. I have to make sure it's a respectable family, and also that the marriage is something she wants. You know, I don't want to create a new situation like the one with Teo.

- What is happening with that, Noor? Is his heart still set on that girl?

- It is. And I don't fight it. Mpatíni is not a bad person, and not a floozy like the gossipers try to make her. She has proven herself to me this year, she really has. I just want him to be a little bit older. I mean, Teo is still in his teens.

- So you didn't hear the latest news?

- What news? About Mpatíni?

- No about her brother, apparently he was attacked yesterday.

- He was attacked? That's terrible! By whom? What happened? Does Mpatíni know?

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