The Nomarchos of Chios found himself first to arrive at the stone of their beloved poet and teacher Homer. In the end, there had been no question as to what verses of the Immortal One that he would recite at the picnic Secunda was planning. He laughed to himself and wondered if he would surprise anyone at all. He knew he would neither surprise his beloved Lady Ceres, nor his old friend Secunda.

But, the young ones--Darius Utnapishtim and Kleopatra Ramesses--they still did not know every sheet of his scroll as did the ladies. He might still surprise them. (Of course, Koritsi being the refined canine she was, would never think to show disappointment. And Orpheos, being the omniscient feline he was, would be above any snide 'I told you so's. He could figure on their positive reception.) So, Edwinus looked at the lonely rock and could only smile at the prospect of a magical time ahead.

There was always the possibility that others would come to the ancient call. There might still be lovers of Homer who would want to recite their favorite lines around the campfire when all had assembled. "Well, they will be welcome--certainly!" the nomarch announced to no one in particular. We have wine and food and the wonderful fresh air of Chios. And the spirit of Homer will be with us, surely."

The air held the promise of sun and sea and maybe something else, something magical.