After the big to-do of the night before, and the consequent dancing and competing the night away, Bagoas decided to hang back for a little while as the others hurried onto shore. He would like to think his aches and pains were lessened by his own carrying on, but as he made his way across the gangway he had to admit at least to himself that all he really wanted was a nice, fragrant bath before retiring for the day - or the rest of the month.

Spotting Josef in the crowd, however, he is reminded of something else: Remus, and Josef's vow to talk to him in Bagoas' stead. He would ask to be escorted to his place were he not in such a state...but perhaps tomorrow evening, after dark.

"Josef," he says softly, slipping his hand into the crook of his elbow. "Would it inconvenience you were I to ask for an escort home? I think I'm too tired to walk, and you must know your way around the communications."