by Mary Reed
“From what you were telling me earlier,” Anatolius said, “Felix seems to have spent a lot of time following you around at the behest of the conspirators. I suppose that he must have been protecting you as well. I would advise him to curb his restlessness in future, John.”
“Felix may harbor ambitions, but he is not a fool. Even so, I do wonder if his discontent will eventually be his downfall.”
“Affairs of the heart coupled with over-indulgence in wine, as is often the case, can turn anyone into a fool, and Felix has a weakness for both. Luckily he tipped the scales of justice the right way when he learned of Vigilia’s murder.”
“I had deduced the identity of the murdered girl by then, although I didn’t know her name, and I realized Felix must have been unaware of her fate. In connection with this substitution of one woman for another, as I reminded you, Dedi’s trick with the vanishing skull worked because it wasn’t really a skull. Then there was the stylite who was made of metal.”
Anatolius frowned. “But why didn’t this Stephen, the acolyte you mentioned, realize something was wrong when the stylite he served didn’t appear in public for a few days?”
John explained he had learnt from Stephen that the stylite was in the habit of withdrawing into the rough shelter on his platform for lengthy periods of time, and since the food offerings sent up were eaten, by Troilus as it turned out, there was no reason to think further about the matter.
“Thus,” he continued, “this allowed the boy to remain hidden until the men left on guard in the square finally returned to the palace, at which point Menander was able to investigate the supposed miracle and having heard his remarkable story rescue Troilus. At the same time, he substituted one of his automatons for the dead stylite, who in a grisly jest against the official religion became part of the centaur in his shop. Presumably the rest of the body is hidden somewhere in the subterranean warren.”
Anatolius said this seemed to fit the circumstances.
“And once I deduced how Troilus had been saved from discovery, it made me see how easily everything fit together, provided the dyed corpse in the cistern and the prostitute who fled from Theodora’s convent were indeed the same person—but not Agnes.”
“You might call it fitting everything together easily, John. Others might regard it as more of a leap in logic. And what about the dye?”
“Purchased or stolen from Jabesh, whose shop is close to the theater. It was probably its proximity that suggested that part of the plan. When Agnes was leading me back to Troilus’ shop we ran past what I thought was a fountain basin filled with rust-coloured water, but in fact it must have been the red dye used when they were busy preparing the unfortunate Vigilia’s body for its appearance in the cistern.”
“And then there’s Menander,” Anatolius mused. “Now, I do have a notion how that was worked. With artisans repairing your bath mosaic coming and going and only Peter to keep an eye on them, Menander’s body must have been smuggled into your house in a barrel. Doubtless it would be taken to be full of tesserae or plaster like the others, if indeed anyone had seen it brought in. That would be toward evening, like as not, so Menander could be tipped into the bath just after Figulus and his workers had left for the day.”
“Indeed. Figulus wasn’t a party to the plot. As a matter of fact he only agreed to finish work on the bath after I convinced him he would not be stumbling upon any bodies in it.”
“I can see Figulus wasn’t necessarily involved, but what about Petronia? Could she really have known as little as she claimed? She was once a member of court, after all, or so she said.”
“That’s a puzzle I haven’t solved, nor do I intend to pursue it further. It makes no difference now.”
John stared at the dark window, seeing only reflections of the lamplight. He took a sip of wine and continued his explanation.
“As for the matter of Helias, the sundial maker reported there was a body in the sack he saw Troilus dragging past, although not the corpse we suspected. Of course, when I saw the sack later its contents had been replaced by that enormous leather phallus. I suspect he chose that particular artifact to taunt both myself and Helias.”
Anatolius inquired about the chamberlain Kyrillos.
“He’s still in Theodora’s service,” John replied. “I promised Kyrillos a reward in return for his cooperation, by the way, and I’ve just sent him a small satyr for his collection.”
Anatolius observed Kyrillos probably assumed John was offering his protection should Theodora hear of what he had revealed.
“Nobody can offer safety from the wrath of the empress. Not even the emperor,” John replied. “I doubt Kyrillos will remain very long in Theodora’s service, or for that matter in this world, if the aid he provided for my investigation becomes known.”
A shadow passed over Anatolius’ face. “Perhaps I shouldn’t have mentioned…”
“We are both aware such information tends to be easily extracted by Justinian’s torturers.”
“Yes, I don’t like to think about that. And speaking of information, how is Justinian reacting to the revelation that Theodora has an illegitimate child?”
“You mean a self-styled illegitimate child? How many of them do you suppose the imperial couple has encountered over the years? I gather the emperor was as chagrined as Theodora that this particular imposter hadn’t been disposed of properly in the first place.”
Anatolius nodded. “Of course, now that I think about it there wouldn’t have been any reason for her not to tell Justinian about the boy after he first showed up. Only Theodora knows whether his story is true and Troilus had no real proof to offer. Is that malignant dwarf who failed in his duty still among the living?”
“He is still alive. He is after all one of Theodora’s playthings and the emperor indulges her whims.”
Anatolius stood. “I should be off home. It’s very late.” The wailing of the gusty wind rose into a shriek. “It sounds as if numerous shades are trying to force their way into your study.”
“They are already here,” John replied.
Anatolius hesitated in the doorway. Finally he asked “Is there any word about the fate of Troilus or Agnes?”
“Troilus was executed within an hour of arriving at the palace. As for Agnes, I suggested to Justinian he should spare the girl, exile her, or send her to a convent. She was, after all, more or less an innocent, if a deluded innocent.”
“You surely did not mean it?”
John replied he did.
“And did he take your rash advice?”
“I understand Theodora interceded. When Agnes revealed she was pregnant with Troilus’ child, she ordered the girl be cared for until the birth, which will take place without opiates or assistance of any kind. Should it survive, the baby will be murdered in Agnes’ presence as soon as born. At that point Agnes is to be blinded, and then sent to the Repentance convent for the rest of her life, the better to reflect upon her sins, not to mention Theodora’s charity in persuading Justinian to allow her to live.”
Anatolius shuddered. “Theodora’s charity is far worse than Justinian’s rage! I wager it won’t be long before Agnes finds her way to a window and throws herself out of it.” With that, Anatolius took his leave.
Once alone John turned his attention, as so often in the past, to the mosaic girl Zoe.
Or was she Agnes now?
Would the mosaic girl’s almond-shaped eyes change when Agnes’ terrible punishment was carried out several months hence?
Would Zoe be aware?
Of course not.
The notion was absurd.
John lifted his wine cup to his lips.
Zoe stared back at him with familiar dark, haunted eyes.
Was her gaze colder than before?
Perhaps that was only John’s imagination.
“Why, Zoe?” he asked.
But only silence was his answer.
Afterword
&
nbsp; Seven For A Secret was inspired by certain events related by Procopius in his Secret History.
Glossary
All dates are CE unless otherwise indicated
AGAMEMNON
In Greek mythology, leader of the Greeks during the Trojan War. To obtain favorable winds for the voyage to Troy, he sacrificed one of his children, an act leading to his murder by his wife Clytemnestra and her lover after Agamemnon returned from Troy, followed by Clytemnestra’s death at the hands of her two remaining children.
ARIAN
Adherent to Arianism, a Christian heresy. Propounded by Arius (c 256–336) it held that Christ was not divine but rather the first and highest created being.
ARISTOPHANES (c448–c388 BC)
One of the greatest Greek playwrights, his comedies were written in a broad and often satirical style. Eleven of his works survive, including LYSISTRATA (411 BC), in which the women of Sparta and Athens refuse their husbands’ conjugal rights in order to end the war between the two.
ATRIUM
Central area of a Roman house, open to the sky. An atrium not only provided light to rooms opening from it, but also held a shallow pool under the opening in its roof in order to catch rain water both for household use and decorative purposes.
AUGUSTAION
Square between the GREAT PALACE and the GREAT CHURCH.
AVERNUS
Lake in Campania, Italy. Regarded as an entrance to Hades, its name in proverbial use meant going down into the infernal regions was easy, but returning from them was much more difficult.
BATHS OF ZEUXIPPOS
Public baths in Constantinople, named after ZEUXIPPOS. Erected by order of Septimius Severus (146–211, r 193–211), the baths were a casualty of the NIKA RIOTS (532). They were rebuilt by JUSTINIAN I. Situated near the HIPPODROME, they were generally considered the most luxurious of the city’s baths and were famous for their statues of mythological figures and Greek and Roman notables.
BELISARIUS (c505–565)
Distinguished general who was instrumental in putting down the NIKA RIOTS. His exploits included retaking North Africa and later military action against the Persians and the Bulgarians. Belisarius led the campaign to reconquer Italy, which was ultimately successful after he was replaced by NARSES, upon recall to Constantinople as a result of palace intrigue. Accused of treachery, Belisarius was stripped of power, but later restored to favor.
BERYTUS
Prominent law school in what is now Beirut.
BLUES
See FACTIONS.
CENOBITE
Member of a religious community.
CHALKE
One of many structures destroyed during the NIKA RIOTS and rebuilt by JUSTINIAN I. The main entrance to the GREAT PALACE, its roof was tiled in bronze. Its interior had a domed ceiling, and was decorated with mosaics of JUSTINIAN I and THEODORA, as well as military triumphs, including those of BELISARIUS.
CISTERNS
Constantinople had difficulty supplying sufficient water to its populace, especially when under siege. To this end, a number of cisterns were built in various parts of the city, some above ground and others underground, often below buildings. These cisterns stored rainwater as well as water brought in by aqueducts.
CITY PREFECT
High ranking urban official.
CODEX
A bound book.
CONCRETE
Roman concrete, consisting of wet lime, volcanic ash, and pieces of rock, was used for a wide range of applications. One of the oldest remaining Roman concrete buildings is the Temple of Vesta at Tivoli, Italy, built during the first century BC.
DALMATIC
Loose over-garment worn by the Byzantine upper classes.
DEMOSTHENES (384–322 BC)
Considered by many to be the foremost Greek orator. Having spoken out against the growing danger posed by the Macedonians, after the triumph of their general Antipater (398–319 BC) he committed suicide rather than fall into enemy hands.
DIGEST
Part of the definitive codification of Roman law ordered by JUSTINIAN I. The Corpus Juris Civilis (Body of the Law) as it is now known was issued between 529 and 535. It consisted of The Institutes, a basic introduction to the law; the Digest, which included selections from classical jurists; and the Codex, dealing with legislation dating from the reign of Hadrian (76–138, r 117–138) onward. The Novels, a collection of legislation issued by JUSTINIAN I, were added between 535 and 565. This codification served as the foundation for present day civil law in most European countries and those whose legal systems are based thereon.
ELISABETH THE WONDERWORKER (fl 5th century)
Born in Thrace, Elisabeth distributed the wealth she inherited from her parents to the poor and entered a convent in Constantinople. Credited with numerous miracles, she is buried in the same city.
EUTROPIUS
See JOHN CHRYSOSTOM.
EUNUCH
Eunuchs played an important role in the military, ecclesiastical, and civil administrations of the Byzantine Empire. Many high offices were held by eunuchs.
EXCUBITORS
GREAT PALACE guards.
FACTIONS
Supporters of either the BLUES or the GREENS, taking their names from the racing colors of the faction they supported. Great rivalry existed between them, and they had their own seating sections at the HIPPODROME. Brawls between these factions were not uncommon. and occasionally escalated into city-wide riots.
GREAT CHURCH
Colloquial name for the Church of the Holy Wisdom (Hagia Sophia). One of the world’s great architectural achievements, the Hagia Sophia was completed in 537, replacing the church burnt down during the NIKA RIOTS (532).
GREAT PALACE
Situated in the southeastern part of Constantinople, it was not one building but rather many, set amidst trees and gardens. Its grounds included barracks for the EXCUBITORS, ceremonial rooms, meeting halls, the imperial family’s living quarters, churches, and housing provided for court officials, ambassadors, and various other dignitaries.
HERO OF ALEXANDRIA (fl 1st century AD)
Egyptian mathematician and inventor, also known as Heron of Alexandria. His writings included works on surveying, water clocks, geometry, and engineering. His Pneumatics describes how to construct useful, unusual, or amusing devices such as musical instruments played by air or water, a solar-operated fountain, a self-trimming lamp, and automatic wine dispensers.
GREENS
See FACTIONS.
HIPPODROME
U-shaped race track near the GREAT PALACE. The Hippodrome had tiered seating accommodating up to a hundred thousand spectators. It was also used for public celebrations and other civic events.
HORMISDAS
Hormisdas Palace, home of JUSTINIAN I and THEODORA before he became emperor.
HYPOCAUST
Roman form of central heating, distributing hot air through flues under the flooring.
ICONOSTASIS
Screen decorated with icons, separating the sanctuary from the rest of the church.
JOHN CHRYSOSTOM (c347–407)
Born in Antioch, St John Chrysostom (Greek, golden-mouth, a tribute to his eloquent preaching and writings) became PATRIARCH of Constantinople in 398. His piety, condemnation of the immorality of those in positions of power, and numerous charitable works made him well loved by the populace. He also made an unsuccessful attempt to save the life of the corrupt official Eutropius, when the latter fell from favor. Enemies in the imperial court, civil administration, and the church itself brought false accusations against John Chrysostom and he was exiled to Armenia. After unrest in Constantinople he was recalled to the city, but was soon again banished. Eventually ordered moved to an even more isolated location, he died during the journey. In 438 his remains were brought to Constantinople and buried in the Church of the Holy Apostles.
JOSHUA
During a battle in which the Israelites overcame
an opposing army, Joshua commanded both sun and moon to stay their courses, which plea was granted (Joshua 10:12-14).
JUSTIN I (c450–527, r 518–527)
Born in the province of Dardania in present day Macedonia, Justin and two friends journeyed to Constantinople to seek their fortunes. All three joined the EXCUBITORS and Justin eventually rose to command them. He was declared emperor upon the death of Anastasius I (c430–518, r 491–518).
JUSTINIAN I (483–565, r 527–565)
Adopted nephew of JUSTIN I. His ambition was to restore the Roman Empire to its former glory and he succeeded in regaining North Africa, Italy, and southeastern Spain. His accomplishments included codifying Roman law (see DIGEST) and an extensive building program in Constantinople. He was married to THEODORA.
KALAMOS
Reed pen.
KEEPER OF THE PLATE
In addition to ceremonial items, imperial plate included tableware such as spoons, platters, ewers, goblets, and various types of dishes. In wealthier households and the GREAT PALACE these items were made of richly-decorated precious metals as well as glass and other materials.
LORD CHAMBERLAIN
Typically a EUNUCH, the Lord (or Grand) Chamberlain was the chief attendant to the emperor and supervised most of those serving at the GREAT PALACE. He also took a leading role in court ceremonial, but his real power arose from his close working relationship with the emperor, which allowed him to wield great influence.
LUCANIAN SAUSAGES
Sausages were a popular dish and spicy Lucanian sausages were considered the best type. These sausages are said to have been introduced to Roman society by soldiers returning from service in Lucania in southern Italy.
LYSISTRATA
See ARISTOPHANES.
MARCUS AURELIUS (121–180; r 161–180)
Adopted by his uncle by marriage Antoninus Pius (86–161, r 138–161) and succeeding him as emperor, Marcus Aurelius sought to improve conditions for slaves, criminals, and the poorer classes. However, he also persecuted Christians, viewing them as a threat to the empire. His Meditations expound upon his Stoic philosophy and sense of moral duty.