Ah - our eyes meet and I have little choice but to approach him. It is a subtle game, the politics of personality. Rudeness indicates failure, and so one must be as polite as possible while goading one's opponent into rudeness. Or maneuvering them so that the only polite option is to one's own advantage.

When the knives come out is when we have failed in our duties, and must endure as best we can. I have confidence in my syndexioi.

"Praetor," I greet him in return. "Blessed Vinalia. I am sure you join me in praising the goddess. This has been a fruitful season, for her concerns." Let us see how glad you are of Venus' pleasure in your old comrade, praetor. "The celebrations tonight will do her honour."