“The monks at St. Conon have taken them in.” Marus stepped into Sophia’s apartment with a large jug of wine in hand.

“I know. It is an open secret all over town.” Sophia poured wine into two of the three drinking mugs on the table.

“How is it, that I, who have chambers in the home of Belisarius, am always last to hear news?” Marus reached around Sophia’s waist and drew her near. He bent down and kissed her neck, just below her right ear, a ritual of love.

Sophia wrapped her arms around Marus’ neck. “Ah, my love, you need to be more in contact with people. You spend too much time in the home of Belisarius, preparing meals for the elite. They are not concerned with the troubles of commoners and so do not talk of it.”

“Yes, that is probably true. But I do hear about the latest fashion and what all the ladies of the court will wear this season.”

“And I will be one who will make those fashions. Ladies gossip when I am fitting new clothing, not realizing I have ears.”

“And such lovely ears they are.” Marus smiled and reached for Sophia again.

“Not now, my love. Peter will be here any moment.” Sophia brought out fresh bread and cheese and placed it on the table.

“Yes, it is comforting to break bread with my best friend and my love.” They both absorbed the silence as they gazed into each other’s eyes.

Peter entered the apartment. “Good day to you both. I have just come from St. Conon. Tension in the street is high.”

“What?” Marus and Sophia glanced at each other, amused that they both spoke in unison. But looking at Peter’s worried expression, theirs also became serious.

Peter poured himself a glass of wine, broke off a handful of bread and nibbled on it while staring at the table. Marus and Sophia waited for him to gather his thoughts.

“The monks shelter the men and tell anyone who comes to the door that the men have been pardoned by God and they are welcome to stay for the rest of their days. Outside the church, a few members of the Imperial guard stand by but do not try to enter. Several people who witnessed the miraculous saving of the men stand outside also, milling around and blocking the doors if the Imperial guard gets too close.”

“The Imperial guard could easily overpower the monks and even the few men standing about. They are not armed.” Sophia sipped her wine.

“That is true. They must have orders not to enter. Justinian fears the citizens will turn on him if he disrupts a holy place,” Marus added.

“Yes, but here is the real news.” Peter took a piece of cheese and chewed it slowly, followed by a long swallow of wine.

“You hold us in suspense, my friend. Give us the news,” Marus said.

“One is a Blue, one is a Green.”

“Ha! One of each?” The irony was not lost on Marus. “There must be some very philosophical conversations taking place with the monks. What is the nature of Christ? A single nature or simultaneously divine and human? The discussion must be intense.”

Sophia poked Marus’ arm. “Do not be so glib. I think the men fear for their lives.”

“You are right, Sophia,” Peter said. “Most men put more stock in the outcome of chariot races than theological disputes. It is the devout who argue over theological details. Most just want their team to win.”

“I did not mean to make light of the situation.” Marus sliced off a piece of cheese. “I am not particularly devout or political, so I rarely engage in debate of either. I live for the day. I live for Sophia.” He once again reached for her. She adroitly avoided his grasp.

“It is not just theological issues,” Peter continued. “Everyone is feeling strain. Justinian’s lofty ideals weigh heavy. Even the elite feel the pressure. Justinian has taxed the wealthy and they do not like it.”

“I know,” Marus said, “I have heard John of Cappadocia is vicious in his methods of tax collection. Many end up bruised or worse. Even the rich fear him. Antonia complains even though Theodora is her friend. I am lucky that I receive only a few coins for my labors.”

“Marus, maybe you can find out what is being planned at the palace,” Sophia said. “There is rumor that Justinian will attend the upcoming races.”

“He often attends. Tomorrow I prepare a meal for Antonia and Theodora. I will listen closely to their conversation. Maybe their favorite dishes will loosen their tongues.”

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