Tonight I use my quill and write with the moon as my sconce. My men and I rest beside the road on our route back to Troezen and still smell the fresh Corinthian sea at our backs. I return from Delphi, the cloak of my manhood now ensured. It was something I had to do as all princes must when they come of age. I put off my journey with my mother to fulfill this requirement. I traveled beyond Megara to the temple and spoke to Apollo through the Pythia. It was an altering experience. I was so moved in the presence of the son of Zeus, yet found consolation that he who brings us reason, brings us civilization, still deems us worthy of his speech.
In the dark tunnel within the temple, away from the light and beauty of plentiful Parnassus, yet within the bowels of the great mountain, I stared at the Pythia as she sat upon her tall stool. This vessel of Apollo would not look at me, nor was I allowed to approach but only extended my offering in a phiale that was a sister to the one she held in her left palm. In her right, she held Apollo's laurel, and as I made this sacrifice of manhood, she slumped and a sweet vapor, entered my nostrils. Her hand- she did flick the laurel in my direction, and then, finally looked up at me beyond the columns that protected Apollo's domain in the temple; and I looked into the eyes of Apollo and saw myself. I was a man.
To Apollo, I gave my first man-clippings of hair. Pittheus says it follows a tradition of great warriors and indeed as I left the temple, I felt invigorated and powerful. It is said in Abantes, men also shave the tops of their head to prevent giving their enemies an advantage in battle. I relish battle in this moment! I am ready to claim my birthright. My life is about to begin!
When I return to Troezen Aithra shall take me to the place of my father's tribute and then I shall leave her to reunite this world. It is what I was meant for. Why else would I have been born, a prince of two cities, but to unite the land between under my own rule? This shall be my life-long task.
