The fit of the chapter:

"We don't keep slaves in Ithica."

THE JOURNEY TO ROME WAS AN ODDLY UNEVENTFUL ONE. So much so, that I was almost nervous.

Athena seemed to notice this, because I could hear her voice in my head trying to calm me down. "All will be well, Little Warrior. The gods guide you to victory."

"I'm sure you have more important matters to attend to Daphne. You did not have to come to Rome with me." I said, turning my attention to the glamoured goddess.

"You share the blood of Odysseus, if I leave your side, you'll find yourself in trouble." The goddess smirked, sending me a knowing look.

"I cannot argue with that." I joked, an amused grin growing on my lips. The sound of the Adrestia's crew singing cheerfully echoed off the waves.

I watched warily as we approached the port of Ostia. I loudly addressed the crew upon arrival. "Ploío sto limáni!" (Ship to port!)

As the Adrestia docked, I eyed the small group of guards that awaited us. I shared a knowing look with Athena, before making my way off the ship.

I stepped off of the ship with Athena/Daphne at my side, the crew taking a moment to stand at attention.

One of the Roman guards approached me, dipping into a respectful bow. "Princess, the emperors eagerly await your arrival."

"Then we won't keep them waiting much longer." I agreed, my eyes briefly catching the blue ones of one of the men who were being carted off in the same direction as the Colosseum.

"Slaves, Princess. From the battle of Numidia. I'm sure the emperors will find one that will entertain you." Another guard stated, pride in his tone.

"We don't keep slaves in Ithica." I responded bluntly as we were led further towards the palace.

We were in the lion's den now.