Alone In a Crowd by Clio Aristocratos       I was amazed at how important Elgon's presence in any of his forms had become in my life. Now he had taken off. I was surrounded by friends and well wishers, but still felt alone. I missed him desperately and worried about the dangers he might face. I was used to being at his side. I clutched the dagger tightly in my hand and turned back to look at everyone. They still had those stunned looks on their faces. I could see that questions were about to tumble out of Atheena's mouth while Zoe was trying to be more circumspect. Kritias had the look of a man who always keeps his ear to the ground and knows more than he says. Joey seemed to be trying to figure out a way to turn my life into an onstage production while Skippy and Xeo were beginning to trade punches saying "take that you Amazon". Max, well, he was just mysterious Max. The cats were bathing. I broke the silence by saying "It is an odd feeling to be a target of assassins. However, this whole experience has been a wierd mixture of exhilaration and terror. Many questions have been answered, but there are still some riddles to be solved. Then we will tell all." Kritias stopped Atheena's questions by interjecting "We understand. Now, Atheena, our guest must be tired. Don't you have a room ready for Clio?" Immediately, Atheena, the perfect hostess sprang into action. Instantly Contrite by Atheena Artistophanes       I jumped up from the table. "I am so sorry, Clio; how very remiss of me. I should have realized how tired you are." Clio nodded, "You're right; I really am quite tired. I hadn't realized myself just how exhausted I am. Perhaps a good night's rest will help." We walked to the suite of rooms that I had set aside for her; her bed was made, with fresh flowers and fruit in the room. Metra scurried around, seeking to be sure that everything was in place. Metra turned the covers down and turned to Clio, "I will be your servant while you are here. I will be right in the next room, if you need anything." Clio yawned. "I'm sorry; I really am more tired than I thought." I walked over and gave my friend a hug, "I am so glad you are back; we were so worried. I will be glad when this is all over." I stepped back and walked to the door, "Good night; hopefully you will get a good night's rest. I will see you in the morning." Clio murmured a soft good night, looking longingly at the soft bed. ************************************************************************************** Credits This story is an effort between several writers of our Athens Novel at PanHistoria. The main characters and writers of this story are Clio Aristocratos, (written by- herself) and Elgon Agis (written by- myself) The story started out to create a background past for Clio, and just developed into a life of it