Circling the sphinx determinedly strides a hearty fellow. He strides toward the centre of the room and says to no-one in particular.

I, Vakchos Tzetzis swear an oath of fealty to my longtime commander and father in law Methodios Tagaris.

I have served faithfully under him and he has blessed my loyalty by bringing him into his family. Master Tagaris may 'out of favour' in the Imperial court, but I trust his contributions and retainers are welcome here.

Now who here will drink with me to the wonderful conquest of the Fatamid Caliphate.

With that behind Vakchos comes several servents carrying large barrels of ale, Vakchos pulls out a large tankard pours himself a drink and slurps happily from it.