“Revelers and worshippers!” Gaius called out across the thick crowd that filled the temple courtyard. “Our beloved vessel of the divine is ready to receive your gifts!”

Calix Erebus swallowed nervously as he was pulled through the waves of buzzing followers, all clamouring to see his face. He was scared, undoubtedly. The past three months of getting accustomed to his new home and the new rituals had flown by and he was dizzy from the sudden attention.

“I don’t know if I can do this!” He whispered urgently to Gaius, who was helping him through with a firm arm around the shoulder.

“Nonsense,” Gaius whispered back, not looking him in the eye, “You have a lot to prove to these people. They’ve come from far over to see your first public ritual. Has my training been for nothing?”

Calix swallowed again, thinking back to the weeks of preperation that Gaius had subjected him to. All for this moment, or so Gaius told him. Calix allowed himself to be shown his seat and the assisting women fussed over his leopard cloak and ivy circlet. He did his best to keep a relaxed, pleasant face, although his stomach felt tied in knots from such a large audience.

Gaius smiled. Erebus made a pretty picture, he thought. How nice it will be to ruin him. “Ladies!” he called, arms open wide, “Gentlemen! Please, bring your offerings forward and let your bounties bring your blessing!”

Next: http://www.furaffinity.net/view/22385943/