The Circus Maximus Murders!!! Chapter XX
Originally posted September 26, 2001
Author: Zoe Xanthippos


I had been quiet while Silva sat beside me, explaining what I was seeing and about to see. It was warm in the sun and between the long walk and the unaccustomed midday wine, I was a little drowsy. I was also a bit embarrassed as Silva had been so surprised at my placing a bet. Wasn't that done by ladies in Rome? Oh well, perhaps as a Greek 'barbarian', I don't not have to live up to whatever standards are set for the natives of this beautiful city.

I was only a little disappointed that the Emperor was not in attendance today. There was so much else to see!

The Vestal Virgins, which so fascinated me, made their entrance and we all rose. I studied the girl on the end, only a child. Silva had explained that these girls were chosen at a very young age, before they had a voice in the matter, but still I wondered how they coped with their restrictions as they got older. Perhaps, not having had this sort of restriction on my own life, I would never be able to fathom what they might be thinking.

Then there was the blare of trumpets and as we stood watching, the beautiful silver of Cybele's statue shone in the sun as the procession made its way around the track.

The crowd's noise grew louder, the horses lined up, and then they were off!