Vengeance & Remission

Vengeance & Remission Page 5

by Amalia Angellinni

  #5 DANGEROUS PLACES

  Nerva knew about Julia's aversion to water. He reminded it from the last time they were in Londonium. He didn't want to keep her on the ship unnecessary, so he insisted to let her sleep in any of the noble houses. Marcus Lucius told him to speak about it with Cornelius, who had friends in the city next to the port. Cornelius would get the opportunity to get social and introduce the girl, as a member of the Fabii family, to the noble society.

  Nerva asked Cornelius about it politely, in the words that Marcus Lucius suggested. It worked. Cornelius was a smug person and it was used against him. Indeed, he sparkled like a diamond just due the thought of being a part of a celebration. He sent already two of his legionnaires ahead with a polite request to Septimius Severus to host Cornelius and Julia for one night. The wealth of Severus was presented in gold and marble sculptures of gods he had in his yard and in the range of the event. More than fifty Romans appeared. Ladies wore wonderfully bounded dresses with golden jewellery. Men limited themselves to classic tunica and golden details on their stripes. From the honey wine served there, you could easily make drunk all fishes in the Atlantic Ocean. Cornelius was as happy as a clam. He led chitchats with everyone, he smiled and laughed about even bad jokes.

  Julia didn't want to go to the event, but she was prepared for it anyway. Cornelius told her how badly it would look like, if she wouldn't appear during the evening, if Severus organized the party already. It wouldn't be polite. She insisted to take Nerva with her. She didn't want to be alone. Cornelius refused. Nobody had any soldier around, so Julia shouldn't be any exception. Nerva didn't feel comfortable as he stayed in the hallway and waited for her. He promised to stay there no matter what would happen. The guards of Severus wanted to remove him, but his look and clear attitude were argumentation enough to let him his peace. He stood in the hallway like one of the sculptures around. He didn't move or talk. It was an acceptable behaviour.

  Julia's eyes were vivid and unsettled. She tried to walk proudly, but her leg have gone dead due to the travel. She was wearing a red dress with a black sash and black sleeves. Her presence animated the society. She was the only unknown person and therefore, she was a riddle that everyone wanted to solve. She didn't feel comfortable in small-talks, so she avoided it as far as it was possible. She didn't drink and didn't eat. She waited until the gazing would stop and then, she wanted to go to the chamber that Severus prepared for her. It wasn't so easy to realize. Tall men and short men asked her about Maxentius's well-being. She answered he's fine. They wanted to get to know his plans: Will he replace Cornelius? Will he fight against the offenders from North? Julia listened carefully and answered that she was a simple woman without any military knowledge. She wouldn't recognize a dagger and a pike. Why was she supposed to be involved into any professional plans? Men laughed politely and complimented her humour. They asked whether the attacks became stronger and more regular. She pretended not to have any clue. Men laughed again and some of them reminded the tribune of Cyrene, who struggled with the Barbarians steadily. Many Roman soldiers were killed in Britannia already. They mentioned Quintus Pompeius Falco, one of the guests of Severus party. Julia listened carefully. Pompeius Falco was governor of Moesia Inferior between 116 and 117. Then, he governed Britannia. He had a direct contact to the Emperor Hadrian. Julia used a moment of inattention of her speakers and went to Nerva. She reported him the news and asked whether it was wise to talk with Pompeius Falco. Nerva wasn't sure what to do and regretted that Marcus Lucius or Appius weren't there.

  -I simply ask him whether he knows Appius and see how he reacts. - Julia suggested.

  -If you make him curious about Maxentius, you can lead him directly to your husband. - Nerva said and underlined the last word. He didn't want to speak Marcus Lucius's name and he forbid Julia to do it.

  -I'll risk it. If the attacks from North increase, we won't have enough time to warn him. He is there, absolutely alone. - She whispered sorrowed.

  -He is alone, but he is a good soldier and he manage it. - Nerva finished the conversation. He noticed a man who looked in their direction. Nerva gave Julia a hint to return to the high society class. The unknown man was a tall and normally built man with vivid, curious eyes. He passed Nerva and followed Julia. As he was at Nerva's head height, he saluted and Nerva reacted automatically with a salutation as well. Nerva noticed that the stranger was approximately in Appius's age and was a half of a head smaller than Nerva. It meant that he was smaller than Marcus Lucius as well. Marcus Lucius was minimally shorter than Nerva. The stranger could be a soldier earlier. There was something that disturbed Nerva in the man. Maybe it was the way he kept his arms together on the chest. Maybe it was the way how he saluted. Nerva followed him without raising any kind of suspicions.

  Julia stepped into the crowd and was already fished out by a short man, not old, but not young anymore, with a great belly and black eyes like a coal. His grasp was painful. He smiled politely and showed her not to betray his proximity to others. He led her to another hallway through another exit. She looked back nervously, but she couldn't recognize any friendly face in her sight. Everyone was busy with silly talks. Cornelius wasn't in sight, either. She noticed that Nerva was on the opposite side of the building. They came into an empty room and the man slapped her in the face. Due to the energy of the slap, she almost flew through the room and stopped six or seven steps further. Her back felt wall behind. She was angry, but she waited for his next movement. She learnt from Marcus Lucius to stay confident and wait what the offender would do. Using the energy of her enemy could be crucial for her success. She estimated her best chances, just the way Marcus Lucius explained it to her.

  -Don't hit the chest. You're too weak for it. Hit here and here. - Marcus Lucius advised more often.

  Julia remembered how annoyed she was sometimes as he repeated his sentences she already heard a million of times. Stay focussed. Stay calm. Stay on distance. Get to know his reasons. She was thankful for his voice she heard in mind. It brought her more confidence.

  -Why? - She asked quietly, because nothing better came to her mind.

  -You won't leave the island. We need you here. The man took a rope and started coming closer to her. Apparently, he was prepared for this moment.

  -Why? - She repeated and didn't move. She observed how the man made three steps in her direction and suddenly, he stopped. She didn't thrill. She waited and focussed on his throat. It wasn't protected. She had one attempt. She squinted a little to see more in the dark room.

  -My husband will kill you. - She warned. She knew that Marcus Lucius would find the man and kill him.

  -He is too far away right now. He won't help you.

  -I didn't tell he will help me now. He will kill you. You will die slowly in the dungeons of our house just like the other man.

  The short man hesitated for a wink of an eye. Julia noticed it. She looked after reaction that Marcus Lucius explained her.

  -I'll tell Cornelius what you did. - She added. It could help, but it didn't. The man relaxed a bit and laughed.

  -You refused his help twice. He didn't forget it. You stay with us until your husband will do what we claim.

  -And what do you claim? - She asked with scorn.

  He sneered and stepped forward. She saw the rope in his hands. In the moment, he stretched his arms to get her, she collected all her powers and with one jump in his direction, she tried to hit the throat. She managed it, but she wasn't as strong as she wished. However, the man wobbled on his knees and she used it to run away. She heard as the stranger cursed her with “You snake in the grass...”. She didn't manage to run away far as she ran into someone. It was the man that tried to listen to her conversation with Nerva. Behind him, she saw Nerva. Nerva was at her side within two jumps. He outran the strange man and looked at Julia. Her nose was bleeding. Nerva squinted his eyes. In the meanwhile, the stranger went to the room, where Julia got slapped. As Nerva stepped into the room, the eavesdropper held Julia's offend
er in his hands. Nerva left Julia in front of the room and before he called her to come in, he took away the rope and bounded the man. Then, he slapped the prisoner's head so hard that he lost the consciousness.

  Julia appeared with trembling knees.

  -You did it right. - The stranger complimented her and smiled.

  She didn't smile back. She wondered who he was.

  -I am Julia, the daughter of Julius Fabius. - She introduced herself and made a curtsy.

  The stranger moved his head in a welcoming gesture.

  -I am Quintus Roscius Coelius Murena Silius Decianus Vibullius Pius Iulius Eurycles Herculanus Pompeius Falco. I've heard you were looking for me.

  Julia stunned. Before she said anything, Pompeius showed her to keep silence.

  -Is it your soldier? - He asked and pointed at Nerva.

  -That's Nerva. He's actually Appius's messenger. - Julia answered.

  -I know. - Pompeius marked and didn't move. - I have noticed Appius's soldiers a couple of time here in a stunning frequency in the last months. It's unusual.

  Nerva let the prisoner's body on the floor and within a wink of an eye, he stood in front of Julia. He was ready to protect her. His hand was ready to pull out the sword and fight.

  -It won't be needed. - Pompeius said. - We have to handle quickly. We don't have time. Let them think they have you, Julia from the Fabii family, and we'll hide you in my house. That means you have to trust me, Nerva, the messenger of Appius.

  Julia hesitated a moment, but finally, she touched Nerva's shoulder. It was a sign to cooperate with Pompeius. Nerva wasn't really convinced, but he changed his position. He stepped back to Julia's side and looked at Pompeius with disbelief.

  -What do you suggest? - Nerva asked.

  -You are cynosure of all eyes. You have to disappear without raising any attention. Your soldier will help you. Then, I throw this man through the window. We need him. He can't stay here. My litter is outside. Show the cast this ring. - He took off a massive, golden signet ring with a complicated blazon and gave it to Julia. - I ordered my man to bring you to my villa. Your soldier has to stay then at Cornelius's side to keep the illusion of being stressed. I guess it won't be too hard, because he will be nervously, when he won't see you for a couple of day. I assume that it is Cornelius's move. I don't know the reasons. You have to trust me. You don't have any other choice.

  Pompeius talked calmly and rayed out confidence. Julia nodded and went to the window. This house wasn't so low as the villa in Eboracum that had just a higher basement and one stock. Here, the basement was even higher. Nerva looked out of the window and prohibited her to jump. Instead, he throw the prisoner outside and his body felt with a rumour on the ground.

  -We'll find an exit. We'll hide the body. I won't stay at Cornelius's side. You can say that I'm searching for Julia. I won't leave her. Ma... Maxentius will kill us both, if we would leave her unprotected.

  -Fair enough. - Pompeius said and left the place.

  Nerva turned to Julia. He wiped her blood from the face with his hand and gave a sign to follow him. In the unknown building, they were looking for any exit they could take. The corridors were long and protected by Severus's soldiers. Nerva and Julia had to hid behind sculptures a couple of times to stay unrecognised. As they finally left the labyrinth of corridors and rooms avoiding the guards and guests, they were happy to breath freely the cold air of the Londonium night.

  Nerva ordered Julia to stay where she was and to give him the ring she got from Pompeius. He went along the walls and found the body of the prisoner. He took it and dragged it to the litters. Before anyone saw him, he looked after the sign on the litter that could look similarly to the symbol on the ring. As he found it, he stepped undiscovered to the bearers and showed the ring. They nodded and two of them followed his orders. He showed them the body that they had to carry away to Pompeius's villa. They did it as he said. Then, he came back to Julia and took her by the hand. She was cold, because she wasn't properly dressed for a walk in the darkness of the cold city. Nerva gave her his cape and pulled her. She followed him through the streets of Londonium and didn't ask any question as they finally stepped into a place that she wouldn't visit on her own will. It was a cathouse, where the customers were already heavily drunken and the working girls were almost after-hours. Nerva held Julia's hand strongly and she listened to his talk with an older, fat man, who gazed at her lewdly.

  -Nerva, you even bring your own girl here! - The older man with the silhouette of a satyr didn't yell. Nerva ordered him to go into a more private corner of the house. They were led to an empty, small room with a tiny, dirty bed. It didn't smell good. Julia didn't wonder that Nerva knew such people, even if she didn't like the idea. She tried to stay polite and keep silence.

  -You'll get your girls, as usually. - The satyr suggested.

  -No. - Nerva refused. - It's important, so listen carefully. I need to hide her here.

  -You bring a beaten, noble woman here and I should hide her for you? I am not a stupid man, Nerva. I won't incur the locals. They are my customers. I live from their money.

  -You really want to help in this case, if you will to live your life some further years. - Nerva said calmly, but Julia couldn't recognize the tone. It was so strange and so iron. It reminded her of Octavian. If she wouldn't know Nerva, she would be scared by hearing this tone.

  -Who is it anyway? - The satyr asked with resignation. Apparently, he had unsettled scores with Nerva.

  -It's not your business. Your business is to watch for her and gave her anything she wants. Your business is to assure that nobody will get a note that she is here. If I will find out that anyone except me touched the girl, then you have a big problem. Understood?

  The satyr nodded. He looked like a beaten dog, even if Nerva didn't touch him at all.

  -Bring bowl with warm water and a blanket quickly. - Nerva ordered. - Bring even two blankets. She can't stay in such a pigsty.

  As the older man left the room, Nerva smiled the way Julia knew and liked. It was a friendly smile.

  -It's not a palace, but you're safe here. - He assured as if it would be obvious.

  Julia didn't feel comfortable here, but she didn't say a word. Nerva took off his cape from her. He didn't let her hand go. His grasp was strong, but not painful. It was the only good thing in this bawdyhouse. She looked how the older man carried a bowl with warm water. Then, he brought even three blankets. Nerva immediately took them and laid both of them in the bed, after he pulled away the old cover of the bed. The dirty material landed next to the satyr. Then, Nerva showed Julia to sit down there. She followed his hints. He kneed in front of her and with back to the older man.

  -Philo, stay here for a moment.

  The satyr looked like he wanted to slap Nerva, but it was clear that he wouldn't dare. He stepped forward and asked:

  -What now, Nerva?

  Nerva took a piece of towel that the satyr brought with the bowl. He put it into the water and started to wash out the blood on Julia's face.

  -What do you know about Quintus Pompeius Falco?

  The satyr trembled. The name wasn't unknown for him.

  -He never used the service of my girls and the service is unique. - Philo smiled dirty.

  -Philo, I meant it seriously. - Nerva sighed. He wasn't unfriendly anymore. - Please...

  -Do I hear it correctly? You really said “please” to me? - The satyr stunned, but stopped mess around as he saw Nerva's face expression. - Good, good, I tell you.

  Nerva looked back to him for a short moment. He noticed that Philo sat down and looked how Nerva washed Julia's face and her arms. The satyr started talking quickly, quietly. What he shared was supposed to stay secretly:

  -He's the big shot here. He was in the Balkans, along the south bank of the Danube River. Some say that he was kicked out after an affair with a soldier. Now, he governs Britannia. Britannia is not easy-taking province and not many dare to go more to the North direction as needed. It's th
e pain in the ass of the empire. Hadrian doesn't want to lose the region here. Hadrian and his politics of peace...

  Nerva covered Julia with one blanket and sat down next to Julia. She laid her head on his shoulders and listened how Philo continued:

  -So, people say that Pompeius should suppress a rising thought of Brigantes and Selgovae, Brythonic tribes of northern Britannia and southern Caledonia. He is good in brutal and short actions. As I said: Britannia is not an easy-going piece of land... He comes from a noble, respectable family that supplied many politicians of consular rank.

  Philo stopped and gazed at Nerva.

  -What do you want from him? It's better not to cross his way.

  -I'm afraid we did it already. - Nerva said sadly. - You're a good man, Philo, so don't ask. The less you know the better for you. Tell us better the story why he was kicked out to Britannia. What kind of insubordination could have such consequence? - Nerva smiled bitterly. He already presumed what he was going to hear.

  Philo hawked the way Nerva did it sometimes when Julia didn't eat properly. Julia stunned and kept silence. She wanted to hear the story.

  -There was a man, who disappeared. - The satyr smiled back. - I heard already many versions of the story, but I really don't know which one is the real one. It was the son of the great Maximus. Maybe you knew him, Nerva, because he was sent to Brigetio at Danube River. It's only a stone's throw from your Appius's camp. Some say he killed his wife. Some say he is on his vengeance course and as long as he didn't kill his wife's killers, he won't come back. Some say, he is already dead, because his wife's murders killed him, too. His name was Marcus Lucius. Yes, Marcus Lucius, the son of Maximus.

  As Julia listened to the story, she felt how the cold drops of sweat appeared on her back and she swallowed her spit slowly. Nerva didn't react in any visible way.

  -So, Marcus Lucius was the reason why Pompeius was banished from a quite calmly environment and sent to dangerous Britannia. I bet he doesn't like this Marcus Lucius. - Nerva jeered.

  -Some say, he hates him. He hates Britannia. He prefers the warmer surrounding. He liked Moesia Inferior much better. If I would be Marcus Lucius, I wouldn't ever speak aloud my name. If he is not dead yet, then he is a dead man walking, Nerva. Don't drag into the story.

  The satyr stood up and left. He came back then with some meat and cake on a tablet. Nerva thanked and forced Julia to eat. She wasn't able and as the first emetic reflex appeared, Nerva didn't push her to do anything else anymore.

  -Nerva, we're already dead. - She whispered sorrowed.

  -We're not. - Nerva tried to cheer her up, but he wasn't in a good way, either. He hadn't any clue what to do next. They couldn't take Julia to Pompeius, but he couldn't not take her to Pompeius, either. Pompeius knew already, who they were and he would find them anyway. Finally, he knew that Nerva was a soldier of Appius.

  -What will we do now? - Julia asked.

  -At first, you sleep. We'll think about it tomorrow.

  Julia wasn't glad about the lack of more specific answer, but she knew she wouldn't get anything better. Nerva stood up carefully and let her laid down on the bed. She wondered where he wanted to stay. He hadn't any clue.

  -Nerva, don't be ridiculous. Sit back here and sleep, too. Other way, I won't get any sleep at all. I'm scared. - She sounded terrified and he couldn't resist.

  He came back as she asked. She wanted to share her blanket with him, but he refused politely. He covered himself with a cape. Her head landed on his shoulder and he hugged her automatically. It was the very first night he spent with a women without any sexual context. As the morning came, Nerva stood up attentively again and minded not to wake her up. He took from her the ring and sighed heavily. He left the room and searched after Philo. It didn't take long. Nerva knew the building. He spent here two or three nights already.

  -Philo, go and bring her a breakfast. And don't touch her. If she tells me that she felt offended in any way...

  -We agreed yesterday about it. - The satyr smiled sleepy. - And I am no baby-sitter.

  -Just do it. You can sleep there, in the entrance. If she asks where I am, tell here I explain everything, when I come back. If I won't come back until the evening comes, give her a horse and sent her to Eboracum. Give her a companion, who brings the reward back to you. You'll get what you ask.

  -Is she really so important? - Philo stunned. - Is it your girl?

  -Don't ask. Just do it, please. And don't say a word about it to anyone. - Nerva wasn't in a good mood. Something bothered him and the heavy load made him standing rather less upright. His back was curved a bit. Maybe it was due to the fact that Philo was much shorter than Nerva.

  -You've changed Nerva. She taught you good manners. Go and don't worry. We'll see us later.

  He slapped Nerva on the shoulder and Nerva vanished. He went to Cornelius and reported that he searched for Julia the entire night. He lost her during the celebration and he was full of shame. She simply disappeared. Nerva said that he met Pompeius and shared his worry with the governor. Cornelius looked rather sleepy than worried. Nerva didn't show his negative attitude. Instead, Nerva suggested that he would go to Pompeius and asks whether he found Julia. Cornelius agreed and went back to bed. Apparently, he didn't care about Julia. It was strange. Nerva didn't comment it and saluted. Then, he went, as suggested, to Pompeius. He was sure that he already spent all his luck already. The visit at Pompeius couldn't be any easygoing track. Nerva was right.

  By showing the massive ring, he was brought directly in front of Pompeius, in the lion's den. The plenty of soldiers stood and made organized impression. Nerva didn't show how insecure he was. He was prepared to be killed. Pompeius waited for him with a snaky look in his eyes. He smiled as if he would like to jeer Nerva. Nerva took it with dignity and saluted properly. Pompeius smiled and squinted.

  -Here you are. And where is Julia from the Fabii family? - Pompeius asked.

  -She's in a safe place. She won't come here until we won't be sure that you're on our side.

  -You're too unimportant to drive a hard bargain. - Pompeius said coldly. - You probably don't know who am I.

  -I know exactly who you are. - Nerva answered and squinted his eyes, too.

  -Whether you're brave and also adventurous, or a stupid man. Don't play with fire. Where is she?

  -Not here with me. Why do you want to have her?

  -Why do you want to hide her?

  -Yesterday, a man tried to kidnap her. You followed her. You said that Cornelius could be involved in the conspiracy. There are many reasons for why I do it that way. So, why do you want to have her? - Nerva repeated his question.

  -I want to help you.

  -Very generous. Why?

  -Don't be rude. - Pompeius smiled unfriendly.

  -Why do you want to have her?

  -You're Appius's soldier. You should help to protect people. Appius won't approve your insubordination towards me.

  -You're right. I am Appius's soldier. I will perform any order he gives me. I didn't get any order to obey you.

  -So, you're acting on his command?

  -I am acting for the well-being of Julia from the Fabii family. In what matter do you act?

  -Senātus Populusque Rōmānus. That's what I serve for.

  Nerva didn't answer. The soldiers standing in the room took off their swords and saw prepared for attacking him. The operation readiness didn't change Nerva's attitude. He knew that he had to be the last man standing and was ready to fight, even if the domination of Pompeius's soldiers was outstanding. He stayed calm, because he knew that Julia would come back to Eboracum with Philo's man. As long as her matter was clear, he was ready to die.

  -So, you're not under command of Cornelius?

  -No, I'm not. - Nerva was nerved, but he tried to stay calm. He didn't like talks. He used to be a messenger, not a politician, to slide between the words.

  -If I promise to help you with protection over Julia of the Fabii family will you come under my
command?

  -No, as you already said, I am Appius's soldier. - Nerva answered quickly.

  -And if I kill you? You won't say a word where the girl is and she will die somewhere alone, unprotected. Will you come under my command, if I promise you to save your life then?

  -With all due respect – Nerva said with clinching teeth - I am Appius's soldier.

  -I understand. That's the Appius's school...

  Nerva couldn't guess what it should mean and what to say, so he stayed calmed. Another soldier stepped into the room, was let through the wall of armed soldiers, and stopped next to Nerva to keep the same distance to Pompeius. The governor moved his hand and the unknown soldier stepped closer to him. Pompeius got a silent report and while he listened to it, he smiled brighter. Then, he moved his hand again and the messenger went away after he saluted correctly.

  -I've heard you were by Cornelius. Why did you say you're not under his command, of you were there?

  Nerva sighed and thought he would explode any minute.

  -I told him I am going to visit you and ask you whether you have any news related to the kidnapping of Julia. If I won't come back, he will assume that you terminated me.

  -That's clever. - Pompeius complimented, but Nerva didn't take it positively. -While you're on the way between me and Cornelius, you can watch over the girl and stay alive. Very good...

  Nerva didn't react.

  Pompeius stood up and stepped to Nerva. The armed soldiers relaxed their operational readiness.

  -Let's have a walk, Nerva, incorruptible soldier of Appius, not under command of Cornelius, I see you're a good man. I see you're a clever man. - The tone of Pompeius changed. He was the same way polite as he was yesterday. Nerva wondered about it, but he tried not to show his surprise. - Therefore, you have my word, and respect it properly, that I won't search after the girl. You can take care of her.

  They went out of the room into a big squared place that used to be a garden, when spring and summer ruled. At that time, the naked branches moved the way the wind blew.

  -However, Nerva, you have to be honest with me. I told you yesterday that you have to trust me. I mean it. As I already said I am convinced that it was Cornelius's idea to kidnap Julia. I don't know his reasons. What I know is that he tries to become a senator as his brother, Julius. He came to Britannia a couple years ago. His legionnaires underrate the level of skills needed in the army. We won't get support in our campaign against the offenders from the North, because the Emperor Hadrian needs troops in his Dacian Wars. We have to defend the empire with remedies we have. I can't count on Cornelius and his soldiers. They're just cannon fodder. However, Cornelius sends Julia back to Julius. It looks as if Julius started gathering his powers and backtrack from Britannia. I don't like it. Therefore, I don't want her to leave the island. It doesn't matter whether she will stay here as my guest or whether she welcomes me in Eboracum, where her husband is. I wanted to visit him already weeks ago. I've heard a lot about him. I wanted to meet him personally.

  -Why do you tell it to me? - Nerva wondered and it camouflaged his insecurity as he listened to Pompeius's plan of visit.

  -Because I am a real friend of Appius and you really are Appius's soldier. - Pompeius answered and noticed that Nerva wasn't comfortable with something. He assumed that Nerva didn't like Maxentius and didn't feel good by sending the girl back to her husband. - I think that the plenty of Appius's soldiers were here lately due to Julia's husband. Apparently, he's not only a very interesting person for me. Appius keeps him in sight as well. There has to be reason for it.

  Nerva swallowed heavily, but didn't comment anything.

  -Take Julia from the Fabii family and go back to the camp. You can get my horses. I will send a message to Appius and to her father that she comes to him after my visit in Eboracum. Expect me in two or three weeks. I have here a riddle to solve. I'll keep Cornelius here for a week with celebrations and social life he misses so much. Have an eye at the girl and at her husband. If you wish to send your own messages, my messengers can overtake the delivery.

  -With all due respect, I thank you for the offer, however, I can't accept it.

  -Of course, you will use your own horses and you'll send your own messenger. That's the school of Appius. - Pompeius smiled with respect in his eyes.

  Nerva nodded and wanted to give back the ring.

  -Keep it and use it wisely, when you need my help.

  Nerva saluted and left the cold garden. As he came to the street, he steadied his back on a wall of a house some streets further and breathed heavily. Then, he drifted along for a longer while to check whether he was followed by anyone. As he was sure, he hadn't any followers, he attentively came back to Philo. The satyr brought him to Julia. She sat with bounded hands and a small bruise on her wrists. Nerva wanted to kill Philo in the moment he saw Julia captured that way. He lifted the small man up and within seconds, Philo's face became red.

  -No, Nerva! No! - Julia screamed as she saw what was happening. - It's my fault. I didn't trust him. He said you will come back, but I thought he lied. I tried to escape, so he bounded me. - Julia explained shortly.

  Nerva put Phil down and excused himself for the purpose he had. Phil breathed heavily and didn't like amused.

  -Nerva, you bastard. I did what you said. - He said angry and bumpily while trying to get a normal breath.

  -Philo... - Nerva wasn't able to justify anything.

  The satyr came to Julia and with a small knife, he cut through the rope around her wrists. She tried to relax her hands after hours of lacking motion. She stood up and jumped to Nerva. He hugged her and Phil shook his head with fury.

  -You came back! You came back, Nerva! - She was happy to see him. She even kissed his cheek twice and she was a pure joy. As she woke up and realized that he wasn't there, she wanted to escape. The satyr stood on her way and tried to talk with her. She was sure that he wanted to lie to her, and include her to his working load. She ignored the words of Philo that Nerva wanted to come back before the sunset. She thought the short man hired murders and killed Nerva. As she sat down in the provisory bed, she already imagined how she would be forced to work in such a business and she almost cried from her sadness and powerlessness. As Nerva appeared, she understood that the satyr was right as rain. She was even ashamed of thinking about Philo as a satyr. He didn't deserve such a treatment.

  -Phil, you won't ever know how deeply thankful I am for all you've done for me. - Nerva said finally as Julia stood next to him.

  The satyr smiled warmer, even if his anger wasn't completely over.

  -We have to go now. I need just two further things. I have to send a message to Appius. Do you know anyone trustful? It's needed to be delivered immediately.

  -Write what you want. I'll take care of it. What more do you need?

  -A horse.

  -Write your message, I'll attend it.

  The short man brought Nerva a piece of paper and a feather. Nerva kneed and on the piece of paper laid on the ground, he wrote words without any context between them. It wasn't similar to letters Julia exchanged with Appius. She wanted to know what happened, but she saw that Nerva wanted to start the travel as soon as possible. She wasn't sure in which direction they were supposed to travel and why Nerva wanted to ride during the night. She tried to win over her curiosity. She promised Marcus Lucius to be a good girl and she tried to behave that way.

  As Philo came back, she shook his hand and said:

  -If it helps you, my man will torture Nerva, if he gets to know where he hid me. - Julia laughed.

  Philo smiled friendly for a short moment. Then, he gave Nerva a sign to follow him. Nerva managed already to make a seal the paper with Pompeius's signet ring. He gave the message to Philo and repeated:

  -As soon as possible. To Appius.

  Philo nodded and accompanied the two up to a stable behind the cathouse. He showed Nerva a horse with rein, prepared for the travel.

  -Are we finally even? - Philo aske
d.

  -We're even. - Nerva said and shook Philo's small, fat hand.

  -Good. Finally. - The short man seemed to be relieved. He laughed rudely and dirty.

  Nerva amended the cape on Julia's shoulders and hid her long hair as much as possible. Then, he mounted the horse and lifted Julia. She sat behind him and hugged him. The sound of hooves echoed in the empty yard. It was a late afternoon and Julia wasn't sure what was expecting her. She trusted Nerva and hadn't any doubts that he was doing the right thing. She wasn't able to see much from the back seat. She didn't wonder that they came into woods. However, it didn't take long and Nerva stopped the horse. He ordered her quietly not to talk. He whistled once, quite long, strange. Some horses whinnied not so far away. Some rumour was brought by the cold wind. Something dynamically was coming in their direction. Nerva was prepared and he booted the horse. It moved slowly, calmly. Out of nowhere, the mere of Nerva came and he managed to grab the reins of the mere. He forced both animals to gallop. As they were far enough in Nerva's opinion, he stopped and jumped to the ground. His mere didn't had any saddle, so he took the saddle from the horse he got from Philo. Julia used the opportunity to talk with him and asked what happened. He answered that the situation got complicated. There was no time for talks.

  -Where are we going then? - Julia asked.

  -We're going back. We have to prepare ourselves for a battle.

  Julia smiled euphorically already by the thought of seeing Marcus Lucius soon.

  -If we hasten, we'll be there in two days. Are you hungry? - Nerva asked.

  She refused.

  -Good, I'll provide a supper on the way. - He said while he helped her to sit down on his mere. The horse wasn't happy to have another rider than Nerva, but it stayed calm. Nerva mounted bareback the other horse and they rid.

  In a village on the road, Nerva managed to get something to eat. He took a small pack and brought Julia out of the village. They rid persistently until the night appeared and the roads were too gloomy to travel. Nerva managed to build a fireplace and Julia stunned how quickly he accomplished a cute over-night-stay. He tied the reins to a tree branch and sat down. Then, he unpacked the package he won in the village. It included bread and some vegetables. Julia ate something and as she noticed that Nerva was hungry, she said she was already stuffed. Nerva didn't hawk and ended the meal. She was sure that he hadn't eat the whole day and the miserly portion wouldn't reach for him. As he finished, he ordered her to sit down next to him. His arm clasped her and moved closer to him. He covered them with the cape and looked like a maniac in the fire that slowly burnt in the fire place.

  -How did you get to know Philo? - Julia asked while her head landed on his chest. From his heartbeat, she deduced he didn't like the topic.

  -It's a long story. - He said.

  -We have time. - She insisted with a warm, relaxing tone. Nerva seemed to be tensed a lot and she didn't dare to ask him anything else.

  -I saved his small arse twice. - Nerva summarized.

  -He's a good man, isn't he? - She said reminding the good manners of the short man.

  Nerva laughed cordially for a while. Then, his laughter changed into a ridiculous, mad sound. He couldn't stop. She felt as if she said a joke she didn't understand.

  -He's everything but a good man. - Nerva answered finally. Then, his heartbeat increased dangerously. - Did he touch you in any way?

  -He bounded my hands. He didn't hurt me. You know, I tried to flee, he stopped me... In general, he didn't do anything than needed... Why?

  -Good. - Nerva sighed with relief. He wanted to be sure and after Julia's answer, he was ready to go to sleep.

  -Nerva, why did you ask it? Did he hurt anyone?

  -You really don't want to know the answer, girl. - He said coldly and thought about raped, poor girls with knotted arms and cut skin that were sold to Philo in consequence of families' debts. He was the very first customer of services of girls that were brought to his cathouse. He didn't like when a girl wasn't hard to posses. He slapped such girls as long as they started to resist. As they tried to defence themselves, he penetrated them with devilish joy. As they stayed unprotesting, it took longer to achieve his goal. The way or another, there was no other man, who would be worse customer for his girls than he himself. Every insubordination of his female workers, he punished with mad, extremely painful rape. If it didn't help, he cut off finger after finger, then arms and legs and let the victim die in his yard to teach a lesson. Therefore, he was called The Butcher sometimes. Mostly, the women harmed that way weren't conscious anymore as their bodies laid outside and invited any kind of ugly, slimy worms and irritating flies. Philo loved to harm women as much as it was possible. He respected only people stronger than he and he knew some influential Romans. He delivered them girls from anteriorly good houses and let the rich men slaughter the girls unhurriedly, if needed and paid extra. Nerva saved Philo once as he didn't know anything about the sadist and then, he saved Philo's life for the second time, because it was the only way to stay alive in general. The debt has been settled.

  -If we'll speak with Marcus Lucius about your stay in the whorehouse, please don't mention that it was Philo's house. - Nerva was indeed scared what Marcus Lucius could do with him after knowing the truth.

  Julia percepted his rapid heartbeat and the gloomy mood that was even darker than the surrounding around them. She promised not to say a word about Philo. She felt that she didn't want to meet the satyr again.

  The next day started already before the sunrise. Nerva already prepared horses for the ride and first then, he woke up Julia. They rid for a long time and ignored the villages they passed on the road. Nerva made a short stop to get something to eat and first after another hour of riding, he ordered a break for a dinner. He shared with Julia a limited portion of meat and vegetables. Then, they rid and didn't spare the horses. Towards the late evening, Julia recognized the surrounding. For the very first time, she was extremely happy to see the walls of Maxentius's villa in Eboracum. With a rapidly beating heart and joy in her soul, she stopped Nerva's tired mere and waited for the gate to be open. In the meanwhile, she jumped to the ground like Nerva. At first, he used to help her with demounting, but she learnt quickly to do it alone. Nerva mentioned every time that it wasn't good for her broken leg and she answered that her leg was already healed. Nerva wasn't happy about it, but he showed her how to reach the ground without jumping. As she waited in front of the gate, she forgot to save herself and she jumped.

  The guardians recognized her and Nerva immediately and the news about their arrival spread like a thunder. She managed to lead the horse to the stable and she didn't see the silhouette of the man she loved. She stunned. Marcus Lucius was always attentive and surely, he noticed the rumours in the yard. Nerva talked with the guardians and stayed at the gate longer than Julia. She wanted to bring the horse to the stable and then, to greet Marcus Lucius and finally eat something. She was hungry and dirty from the journey. One of ostlers took over the mere and Julia turned to Nerva with a smile.

  -We did it! Where is Marcus Lucius? - She asked and looked around. Nerva noticed that the lights in the house were off already as he stepped into the yard. Julia realised it at first in that moment.

  -I sent a legionnaire to the camp. Marcus Lucius resides there now temporarily.

  Julia's joy decreased a bit. She wished to see him right away. She didn't think she had to wait any longer. Nerva brought her to the kitchen and the rest of slaves that stayed at Marcus Lucius's side appeared quickly. Julia wasn't happy by not having Chloe or Lysandra around. She familiarized with them already. She gave the commando to Nerva and he ordered politely to prepare a supper. Julia looked around in the kitchen and admired the room she didn't visit often. Nerva took her hand and led her to the dining room. Wine and bread were served immediately. Julia swallowed the bits like a wolf. Nerva smiled, because he didn't expect her to be so hungry. He didn't drink wine yet. He ordered water to keep a fresh mind. There were things
to discuss with Marcus Lucius. However, he ordered slaves to pour Julia steadily a glass of wine. She drank, because she was thirsty. Nerva wanted her to get to sleep soon, because he wanted to speak with Marcus Lucius one to one. Julia shouldn't get scared. Marcus Lucius would describe her the situation in a less dangerous way, because he wouldn't like the idea to get her afraid.

  Julia was so excited and tired that she felt asleep at the table, with her head steadied on her arm. As Marcus Lucius entered the room, he smiled enthusiastically. As he realised that Julia was dozing, he took Nerva to an adjoining room. They welcomed each other like brothers. They were both relieved to see each other in a good condition.

  -Tell me the whole story. - Marcus Lucius said finally and listened carefully as Nerva described their last days outside. The days of travel to Londonium weren't hard or specifically interesting, but it took a week to get there. Then, Nerva told about the event and the stranger, who tried to kidnap Julia. Marcus Lucius was tensed, and even the remark of Nerva “She is really fine, she is healthy.” didn't help to get Marcus Lucius relaxed. As Nerva described the first and the second meeting with Pompeius, Marcus Lucius's eyes were full of fury. His cheek were tensed and moved in the way that underlined his tension. Nerva left further remarks about calming down, because it was a waste of time. Instead, Nerva explained in detailed what Pompeius said and what Nerva got to know about Pompeius. Marcus Lucius wasn't scared. His only sorrow was written in the face and as he asked Nerva, where Julia was hidden, Nerva said:

  -You have to promise that you won't kill me. She is fine and she was fine the whole time. Promise you'll remember it, when I tell you it.

  Marcus Lucius's eyes were squinted and his lips were pressed together the same way as during the day as Julia fled into woods.

  -I promise not to kill you. - He said slowly, calmly, but ice-cold. His fingers were tensed.

  -We were at Philo...

  -Philo The Butcher? - Apparently, he knew Philo already at least from rumours.

  -Yes, but... - Nerva didn't end the sentence as he felt Marcus Lucius's hands around his neck. - Fair enough. You promised not to kill me. She is fine...

  Marcus Lucius let him go. Nerva made two steps and needed a moment to get a breath.

  -It was the only place where Pompeius wouldn't search for her. - Nerva said in self-protection.

  Marcus Lucius sighed heavily.

  -I am not sure whether it was right or wrong, but you came back in good health and I won't think what could have happened, if you wouldn't come back before the sunset. Therefore, you did it right. You handled it right, Nerva. - He underlined and came closer to Nerva. Nerva, on impulse, stepped back, but Marcus Lucius stretched his hand and Nerva realised that Marcus Lucius only wanted to shake hands. Nerva was relieved and as they shook hands, Nerva percepted shortly how strong Marcus Lucius's pressure became as Marcus Lucius said:

  -If you will hide her ever again at Philo, I will kill Philo, and then you.

  -I understood. - Nerva said. He wouldn't go to Philo anymore the way or another. The longer he thought about the spontaneous idea the more dangerous it appeared. The best thing about it was that Philo was a part of the past. - You have my word that I won't do it ever again.

  Marcus Lucius hugged him once more and they were even. Before he stepped back into the dinning room, he breathed deeply twice. Then, he entered the room where Julia was still dozing.

  -We found some point men that betrayed the position of their camp and the planned time for attacking us. We have three weeks for preparing the battle. If we don't get any support due to Hadrian's campaign in Dacia, we have to do it on our own. Maybe Pompeius will fight with us and will get killed. Then, our problem would be solved. We'll talk about further options tomorrow.

  Then, he came to Julia and lifted her. As she opened her eyes, she smiled brightly. She was drunk and tired. She mumbled something with cordially face expression. It wasn't a combination for any long-talk. Marcus Lucius undressed her quickly and washed her body. It was important for him to get sure that she wasn't harm in any way. As he didn't notice any new wounds except some bruises due to the rope on her wrists, he was relieved. He kissed her moony face and warm lips that tasted after wine. He couldn't believe that she met Philo and survived it without any harm. Already staying in Philo's house could injure good souls. He tried not to think about anything bad. He missed her more than he could take and feeling her in his arms again meant he could start living again. He was finally able to fell asleep.

  The next day, Julia has been woke up by Marcus Lucius and stood up with a huge hangover. She wasn't used to drink and she was really thirsty. She cursed Nerva for giving her wine. She wanted to sleep in the warm, cosy bed, but Marcus Lucius ordered her to get dress quickly. She wondered why he was already awake and why he stressed her. She didn't complaint. Nerva was already preparing the horses. Julia didn't like the tempo and the insecurity in the air.

  -Where are the peasants? - She asked after she noticed that no children were playing in the yard.

  -I sent them all to the local villagers. - Marcus Lucius said. - They're protected. Don't bother about it.

  -Why are we leaving the villa? - Julia was curious. Her voice betrayed her doubts.

  -We'll talk on the way. - Marcus Lucius said and mounted Hiberus. Then, he lifted Julia and she sat behind him.

  She didn't like it. For more than a day, she was just sitting in a saddle. Her legs and her butt hurt. Coming back to the position that wasn't comfortable was even more aching. It was like wearing new, inconvenient shoes all day long, taking them off for a while and putting them back on the feet. She set her teeth and tried to glue to Marcus Lucius stronger. He didn't look back to her or did anything to show her how pleased he was to have her near again. Indeed, he was calmer and more than simply happy. He tried not to show it to the surrounding. He knew that if anyone notices his attitude to her, it could be used against him. He brought her to the camp and legionnaires wondered why he brought a woman there. Cornelius had family, but he kept it under Julius's protection. Marcus Lucius wasn't sure which reasons Cornelius had for keeping the state. Cornelius didn't say it to Marcus Lucius. Marcus Lucius didn't ask.

  The soldiers saluted. Julia was a couple of times in camps, but she didn't like it. She accompanied her father and was supposed to show herself. At the time of visit, she believed that her father simply wanted to spend more time with her. As she looked back at it, while she was the focus of Eboracum's soldiers, she sighed sadly, because she discovered she was a marionette. A short doubt appeared in her mind whether she was a doll in Marcus Lucius's hands. He tried hard to be a good man, but was he one? It was the men's world to decide what was good and what was bad, how to live and which clothes should be dressed. It was the world of men's decisions and ideas. Women were used to be servants, another kind of slaves. Women were used to share responsibilities and obligations. Being in front of masses of soldiers, she didn't feel comfortable. She wasn't a part of this world. She wanted to eliminate everyone and stayed captured in a dream of her ideas. If it would be able to create and live in a world she wanted, she would settle down in Italy. She would listen to wonderful songs and poems. She would go to colourful theatres with dramas of Greek masters and she would enjoy the slowly, summer sunsets on a warm, beautifully calm beach near to the house she would live with Marcus Lucius. Marcus Lucius would stay on her side every night and gave her the most unique, wild, boundless pleasure that she was addicted of. Nerva would step by to common meals. Sometimes, she would ride with Nerva to places where Marcus Lucius couldn't be yet. Nerva would take her to big cities, where she would admire the architecture of buildings and constructions while Marcus Lucius would stay with Octavian, if needed anyone else. She wanted him to have his freedom, because he liked the woods, the patrols, the fresh air. She couldn't create him in any other way he was. In the end, she didn't like living in any illusion, she didn't like to tame him the way she wished. It would mean she didn't love him at all. She
loved him, not the imaginary picture of him painted by her mind. She wanted to get surprised by him. She wouldn't get to know the taste of hot, passionate nights if she would stay away from the risk of getting to know him closer. She wouldn't feel his love so strongly, if she wouldn't give her a chance to feel anything.

  A sound brought her back to reality. She was so deeply contemplating that she didn't notice that Marcus Lucius wanted to help her with demounting. Before he brought her to his tent, he commanded:

  -Nerva, you take over the first patrol. Rufus, assign him a group quickly.

  Marcus Lucius didn't have to wait long for forming a group. In the last days, Rufus shared the troops according the decisions were made with Marcus Lucius. The originally set groups were mixed. Up to 5,000 soldiers were divided into cohorts anew. Cohorts were divided into centuries due to the level of skills. The half of soldiers was useful, the rest was useless. Marcus Lucius had to focus on the first group without rising any attention from the locals or enemies. The patrols of approximately thirty men were still doing their job. Marcus Lucius sent them with Rufus and he overtook the trainings. As Nerva came back, it was easier to coordinate the forces.

  Marcus Lucius brought Julia to the tent and asked her politely to stay there.

  -You're safe here. Nobody will attack the camp these days. Sit here and don't go out.

  Julia noticed the concentration and concern behind the polite distance. She nodded and let him go. His face didn't show his relief, but his eyes sparkled briefly with the fire she knew. She didn't have to worry what he felt about her.

  -Rufus! - Marcus Lucius screamed as he was going out of the tent. - You'll drill these ten groups. I will take the other ten groups. The rest has to be trained by the centurions.

  Julia stepped forward and tried to get a look from the inside of the tent to the outside, where the training took place. She tried to follow the duels that Marcus Lucius supervised. He screamed hints and advices to the fighters. He seemed to be running out of time due to the tempo he dictated to soldiers. He stepped between the fighting legionnaires and showed them some moves of defence or attack. He explained everything shortly and the most heard orders were:

  -Start over! Do it again! Watch out! Focus! Stay focussed!

  She recognized the tremble of Marcus Lucius's voice. It was iron and sharp as his sword. His words were precise like his dead-on stabs in the fights. He didn't scrimp on anything. As it was wise and accurate, he took place of a fighter to present something. The legionnaires were motivated and tried to learn fast. They tried to imitate the way he moved and ducked down. He trained a group after another. The soldiers got the opportunity to warm-up, to train and to rest finally. Marcus Lucius hadn't any time to waste. He was involved here and there the entire day. Everyone wondered where he gets the energy.

  Julia didn't like that Marcus Lucius didn't come back for dinner. She was all alone in his tent and it was boring after a while to watch the hours of training. Around noon, Nerva came back and the minutes spent with him were the rare moment of staying in any company.

  -What is it about? - Julia asked him directly.

  -A battle will take place. We don't have as much time as needed to prepare for it. - Nerva answered honestly.

  -Will we get any support? - Julia wondered, because she knew that shifting of army units were a common move.

  -We are on our own. - Nerva said and smiled. Then, he summarized her the state they were all in. He whispered and watched her reaction.

  -Why do you tell it all to me? - She trembled. She was terrified.

  -Because he asked me to do it. - Nerva laid his hand on her shoulder. His voice became warmer than before. - He didn't want you to think that you're not important to him.

  -How can you stay so calm? - She couldn't understand it all. If they weren't going to get any support, and if the battle was serious, and if they weren't prepared enough, and if Pompeius was going to kill Marcus Lucius for Marcus Lucius's desertion, and if the chances to survive it and reach the happy end were microscopic, then it was definitely hard to keep the pokerface.

  -What should we do then? Should we start running chaotically, scream to heaven and go crazy? - Nerva laughed shortly. Then, his eyes changed the cordial tone into a serious, clear tone. - You have to be strong for him. He won't manage it all, if he will have to take care of you. Don't say him that I told you everything I know, because he will get worried, I'll get punished and nobody will be able to play the game anymore. Be strong for him, so that he will strong for us.

  Julia nodded. She understood the aim of Nerva.

  -But how...? - She wasn't sure whether she could take the load on her shoulders. The pressure of Nerva's touch seemed to be heavier.

  -You already fought for him on the way up to here, so don't give him up now. He's as strong as the woman behind him.

  Julia nodded automatically. It was nice of Nerva to say it that way. It gave her impression that she was really important and brave, that she could influence the state with her input. It meant that Marcus Lucius didn't want to worry her, but he wanted her to be aware of the danger. It meant that Nerva was a good friend and not only a good companion. It meant the world to her.

  Nerva didn't stay long. He guzzled quickly like a hungry bear and left her after he saluted to her. Julia didn't try to catch Marcus Lucius's attention anymore and she observed the trainings with calm, neutral face expression. She fought with her impatience. Her egoism whispered the wishes she tried to suppress. It wasn't the time for being selfish. It wasn't the time for savouring moments. It was the right moment for keeping Marcus Lucius on distance so that he could stay focussed on his mission. He should save them all. Maybe then, his previous acts would be stroke out of his register. Maybe then, he would get a chance to start anew. Julia didn't complaint as she stayed alone in the tent, even in the night. Marcus Lucius stepped briefly into the tent and as he saw her sitting in a chair, he suggested her to lay down in his bed.

  -I'll come back soon. I have to praise the motivation of some legionnaires. - He said and didn't wait until she felt asleep in a surrounding that wasn't cosy. The tent was the minimum of what she could get and she should be satisfied, because she was protected from wind and rain. The wall-to-wall coldness of the last winter days wasn't supportive. Julia covered herself with many blankets and she still shivered. As she finally started dozing, she percepted someone's warm hand on her head. She woke up and with a sleepy eyes, she whispered:

  -You're here...

  Marcus Lucius didn't slip under the blankets, but he laid next to her shortly.

  -I am here for you. Try to get to sleep.

  She closed her eyes and as she opened them again, he wasn't there anymore. Nerva told her that Marcus Lucius talked with guardians at the gates, laughed with the soldiers around the many fire places in the camp, and every now and then, he stayed in his own tent to rest. These pauses were the only moments he got pieces of sleep. He even didn't waste time for undressing. He simply laid down next to Julia, put his arm around her covered body, took the last free blanket to cover himself and breathed her scent through the moments of sleep.

  The further days were similar to the first day after Julia's return. The only difference was that the rain got a bit warmed and the sun stayed longer on the sky. The legionnaires seemed to be much more motivated than before. Nerva's assumption was that Marcus Lucius's presence brought them the better mood. Nerva was the only person that accompanied Julia in the dinner time. They talked about obliging, non-complicated things like the weather or how the nature was unhurriedly waking up from the winter phase. They talked about shallow shadows of life without going deeper into the topics. It felt like wading in the sea, like keeping the tiny, calmly piece of a sandbank where the sea meets the land.

  Marcus Lucius was everywhere and nowhere. The legionnaires noticed that he could smile every now and then. His good mood wasn't clearly visible, but catching. Similarly, his motivation and endurance were transmissible. There was a kind of a
tmosphere that everyone percepted in the air. The majority felt good with it. Some soldiers were annoyed by the force that was staying with them. They wanted to rebel against it, but they knew they hadn't enough power to keel it over.

  The spirit changed a weak and a half later. Cornelius came back. Marcus Lucius's point men reported the arrival of the commander maybe two hours before Cornelius appeared in the camp. Marcus Lucius ordered to train further and he went from one group to another to check the progress of the training. Somewhere between the loops, he stepped into the tent, where Julia was.

  -We don't have time. - He whispered dynamically, briefly as if he would be the god of winds himself. His entire body showed that he was on the run. He even kissed her passionately, warmly, but hurriedly. - We have to stay on distance. When Pompeius comes, he can't notice, he can't even get the thought that there is any connection between us. Cornelius can't get it, either. Nobody should get it. - His words were short, quick as cuts of sword on the battle field. There was no time for her to think about it. She nodded and inhaled the air he breathed while he spoke. - If anything... Just say you didn't know who I was. If... - He couldn't concentrate enough to end up his thoughts or he simply wasn't able to speak aloud his worst fears. - Just promise me that you'll do whatever Nerva or Rufus will demand... No matter what... Promise it now... Please...

  He looked sorrowed and insecure, as if it was the last moment of intimacy they could get. There were no chances to get a stroke or another kiss. She knew she had to give him her promise and she tried not to fall apart. She couldn't swear him that she would ignore everything. It was everything but no matter what attitude.

  -Please, promise... - His face was so close to hers that their lips wouldn't have any problem to touch each other. At the same time, the distance was so extreme, as if they would stay on different coast sides of the English channel. Marcus Lucius's eyes followed her every sparkle in her eyes and every wrinkle or move of muscles on her face.

  While standing so close and so outlying to him, she reminded the beauty of the moments they shared, the warmth of his skin and passion of his moves. She thought it was easier for her to stay here and at least have a look at him in the rush of the preparation to a battle than to be sent away and not having even the opportunity to get any eye contact. She nodded.

  -I promise. - She whispered and wasn't able to add anything to her statement.

  -No matter what... - He insisted her to repeat the words that sounded like the death penalty.

  She nodded, while her lips shivered. She tried to catch all her pieces together and not to fall apart. She nodded with aching heart, feverish soul and vehemently. In the corner of his mouth, a kind of tragic, extremely sad, but still relieving and winning smile appeared. However, they had the spark that makes the power grow, that raises grain of hope, that keeps you warm even in the most icy land. His last breath before he went was longer. His lips stroked her cheek as he turned around and left the camp. The moment was too short to catch it and save for the immortality of mind. She pressed her lips together and wished to follow him, but her body felt like stone. She could be one of many pallid sculptures in Severus's house in Londonium. Not even one tear flew and it made her proud. She wondered how it was possible.

  She reminded Achilles loving Briseis and Briseis loving Achilles back. It all couldn't end like in the Iliad. It couldn't end badly. She didn't want to be Briseis, even if it was her favourite character in the wonderful, unique story. She envied Briseis for being loved and for the power of emotions that Briseis was able to percept. In that moment, Julia wasn't sure anymore whether love was a good feeling. If she wouldn't love Marcus Lucius, she would ignore his proud look as he begged her for a promise a moment ago. It wouldn't matter to her. She would smile and pretend to care, but she would stay icy inside the same way she pretended for weeks to be a good wife of Maxentius after he brutally slugged her body and soul the way nobody saw. If she wouldn't love him, it would be so much easier to come back to her father. If he wouldn't love her, he wouldn't ask her to give any promise. He would be already far, far away from here. He could save himself and live his life somewhere else. He didn't. He was there, even if he was on the run. He cared and she wasn't sure whether their pretending to not having a relationship didn't attract more interest than keeping it all the way it was.

  As she heard Cornelius's voice outside, she trembled nervously. She jumped out of the tent and looked around. Cornelius targeted her quickly with his eyes and he made some steps in her direction. Before he could speak a word with her or ever could welcome her, Rufus grew out of the ground and took her hand. Julia didn't feel good by having to interact with her uncle. With a bit scared, intimidated look, she scouted around after Marcus Lucius or Nerva. She saw Marcus Lucius somewhere in the rush. He was preparing something. He was busy. He was everywhere and nowhere. In the distinct moment, she noticed Marcus Lucius's minimal briefly nod. She felt Rufus's determined grasp. Marcus Lucius's nod was everything that counted. So, she didn't oppose as Rufus pulled her away brutally. It felt rough, but Julia didn't say a word. Cornelius's eye brows showed the biggest wonder. Round-eyed, he looked at Marcus Lucius, who made the impression of not knowing what was going on. As Cornelius turned his head to Rufus, Marcus Lucius nodded briefly again. Julia was focussing just on his face and her face showed nor the relief nor discontent. Rufus took her into a corner of the camp, where Cornelius never has been before. Rufus crooked his another, free arm and it was a sign for a group of legionnaires to follow him.

  -You don't bother when they take your wife away? - Cornelius wondered in a strange way.

  Marcus Lucius noticed a tone that didn't suit completely to a true sorrow. He wasn't sure whether the impression was influenced by Nerva's report or whether it would occur anyway. He didn't trust Cornelius, but the game had to be played. There was another, more serious opponent. Marcus Lucius wasn't sure how to handle Pompeius's person. However, he didn't want to underestimate the danger of Cornelius. Many a little makes a mickle.

  Rufus heard the question, but he ignored it and didn't break the mission. Fortunately, Nerva came back from his second round of patrol soon. Rufus didn't know how to tackle it, so he left her next to the wooden walls of the camp. She stood like an unwanted, forgotten thing. She didn't move a lot to not to turn the spotlight on her. Rufus gave to soldiers so many different tasks to fulfil that they were occupied on their training. The legionnaires didn't expect him to press forward so determined. Even if they were focussed on their duels, they've noticed that Rufus didn't dare to gave Julia the slightest gaze. It was strange. At first when Nerva came, Rufus relaxed a bit and he came back to his jovial state, when Nerva took Julia away.

  Nerva seemed to be tired and breathed shorter than usually, as if he would have ran ten loops around the camp already. He had some blood on his armour and cape. His face was a bit dirty and his hair was ruffled. He was simply tousled from head to feet. She was worried that he was wounded, but he didn't let her to touch him.

  -There were further point men we caught. We have three wounded and six dead. - He reported shortly to Rufus and saluted.

  He brought Julia to the tent where the wounded were. The medico, she already knew, looked at her and without a word, he gave Julia a bowl with water. She used the skills she learnt while taking care of Marcus Lucius.

  -Sluice their bodies. - He ordered quickly. - And you, Nerva, will hep me with the wounded.

  Julia didn't know when she learnt to stitch up small and middle-sized wounds. In the meanwhile, medico examined the injured ones. Medico showed her how to do it and she simply followed his strictly, clear tone. There wasn't time to analyse what to do. Her task had to be done. Nerva helped to keep calm the injured soldiers. They were fighting against his pressure as the medico cut them with knife. Julia wasn't able to look at the butchery. There was blood everywhere: on the hands, on the clothes, on the blankets. The wounded moaned with pain. One voice was high as a lady would yell. Two were deep and subdued. Choked
words didn't occur, but the request for the pain riddance was captured in every air molecule. The moaning sounded animalistic, strange, fearsome. Julia tried to focus on anything else. She assumed that many further soldiers will appear here during and after the upcoming fight. The squawk and rasps of medical tools sounded more than simply unpleasantly. It was like screeching grid while your history teacher moves his nails along the table. Julia didn't feel good, but she tried to stay strong. She couldn't be the weakest link in the tent. She wasn't wounded, so she didn't deserve to be treated with special protection. She didn't comment anything, even the methods that the medico used to put the soldiers' foot down one day. She knew that these remedies were needed to set the wounded up. She reminded the brutal methods of Octavian. They were burnt in her memory forever.

  The night appeared and nobody noticed it for sure. Marcus Lucius came shortly a couple of time along the tent and checked whether his girl was fine. He didn't dare to smile or to talk with her. She didn't notice him and kept a stony face expression. As the injured moaned diminuendo, she tried to find a place for her. She sat down next to one of the wounded, the one with covered face and naked torso. He had a huge gash on the chest. It looked much more serious that in the case of Marcus Lucius once. The soldier breathed rarely, barely, deeply. She took a piece of material and wiped away his sweat. She wondered who he was, whether he was old or young, whether he had family that was waiting for him, whether he liked being a soldier and whether he would recover. As she finished, she covered him with a blanket. She stood up shortly and went to the second bed. She spent some moments at another soldier's bed and put the same questions in her head. The man was younger than Marcus Lucius and his mild bone structure made him looking a bit girlish, but cute. He was in fever and he trembled. His hand grasped after Julia and he mumbled something she didn't understand. His eyes were blurry and puzzled. She let him holding her wrist for a while. As he calmed down, she stood up and looked around. Nerva was laying on a bed that was free previously. She came to him and he suddenly opened his eyes. He was watchful, even if she tried not to wake him up. He smiled confused. She sat down next to him, because he moved a little to give her free space. Automatically, she checked his temperature by touching his forehead. He was insecure and suspicious, but didn't oppose.

  -You have fever. - She said. - You should rest.

  -It's nothing. - He answered and observed how she wiped the sweat from his face.

  -You have to rest. - She whispered and stroked his cheek in a friendly, sorrowful way. - Sleep, Nerva.

  -Stay here. - He said determined. As she looked at him with question marks in the eyes. He hawked and added shortly, pleadingly – Where you go, I go. If you want me to get a nap, you have to stay here.

  She smiled, because she didn't expect it and it sounded cute. She shook her head minimally and watched as Nerva felt asleep. She sat next to him and fought with her tiredness. She wondered how Nerva could sleep in his armour and didn't complain at all. She couldn't imagine that it was even rudimentarily comfortable. He moved a bit and his hand touched her thigh. She shivered shortly, because it was strange, but she didn't change her position.

  Around the midnight, she was not only tired, but also bored, because nothing was happening what could keep her awake. Nerva was sleeping with rustled breath, the wounded moaned quietly and the wind got more powerful. She listened how it swished outside and she watched how the material of the tent wobbled. In this sleepy atmosphere, she wasn't able to keep her mind occupied with rational thoughts.

  -You should rest. - Marcus Lucius's voice sounded rather like a fairy-tale she wanted to dream.

  She shivered and smiled to her thoughts. Apparently, she visualised a dream. A shy, gentle touch felt unreal, dainty.

  -Apologize my rush. Apologize the lack of common moments. - Marcus Lucius whispered as he kneed in front of her.

  Her hand landed on his hair and if his hair would be longer, she would ruffle it by her moves. She looked to him and smiled in the way he missed in the last days. She found pleasure in stroking his head and she tried not to cry or show how much upset she was, because he was so near and so far away in that moment. Everyone could look at them and she couldn't get his kiss. Nerva said her that Marcus Lucius will try to keep the distance to show everyone that there is nothing going on between them both. She knew that it was his kind of protecting her, if anything would have happen to him.

  -I understand. You have to be near to your soldiers. You're a good soldier. - She said finally.

  -I am here for you. I am around... No matter what...

  His deeply warm, loving eyes showed her everything she wanted to know. In that moment, the entire world was the most beautiful place, even if the world could fall apart just a second later.

  She started smiling as he rapidly got up and left her. He disappeared like a ghost. Her hand hung in the air. She looked around scared and saw how the medico and two wounded soldiers were gazing at her. She wasn't sure whether they percepted the moment of strange intimacy between her and Marcus Lucius, but she moved her hand and wiped Nerva's sweat from his forehead. Nerva smiled. He wasn't sleeping at all, but he pretended being in the Morpheus's arms.

  -It was a masterwork. - He whispered in conspiracy. - But I won't let my heart control my head. It's too demanding.

  Julia prodded him with a bold smile.

  -Lay down here, in that bed. - Nerva ordered quietly and showed with his head's movement the pallet next to him.

  She used the moment and as she put her head on the bed, she felt asleep immediately. She didn't notice how Marcus Lucius sneaked up and covered her with a blanket. She didn't notice that he stepped by at least three times. He talked with medico, he checked how his soldiers were, he finally ordered Nerva to sleep and took over the first round of patrols. He wanted to go to the place of the last short fight. On the way to Hiberus, Marcus Lucius passed the paling where two prisoners were caught. One of them escaped days ago. The other didn't manage to get free and got wounded by an arrow. The prisoner didn't know that the escape manoeuvre was planned and controlled by Marcus Lucius. Rufus wondered why Marcus Lucius allowed it.

  -The one will go and report that we're just a bunch of untrained, unmotivated soldiers. They will be convinced that it is the true state. The other one had to stay. We needed only one messenger. We're not so incapable, either. The Roman army can't be a target of dumb jokes.

  Rufus nodded and let Marcus Lucius the strategic decisions. Nerva shivered half-hearted. He was not completely convinced that the move was right, therefore, he added:

  -Why don't you follow the runaway?

  -They already betrayed the position of their camp. Trust me, brothers. From all sources of danger, the Barbarians are the least worse for us.

  -He has a plan. - Nerva said ambiguously and smiled in a dirty way.

  -He has a plan. - Rufus repeated.

  Marcus Lucius smiled and slapped them friendly on the shoulders. They laughed and it seemed so objectionable that they had to laugh about that sudden thought as well. Almost three weeks passed from that moment and not much has changed. Julia stayed in the tent where the wounded were. She took care about them and the medico persuaded Cornelius that that's the best place for the Roman lady. Cornelius wasn't satisfied with the entire situation. He cursed anytime he left his tent. He didn't like the compact trainings that gained the common acceptance. He didn't like the air full of stress, uncalled training methods and the excited expectation in the wind. Everyone percepted that not only the spring was coming. There was something bigger that filled the space and the lungs. It wasn't visible. It wasn't confirmed. It was simply there and every movement, every word, every breath could influence the meaning of prevision that enveloped the camp and the woods around it. Marcus Lucius took over the night guards with allotted legionnaires. When the sunrise was perceptive, he took some groups of soldiers and left the camp. On his patrols, he seemed to be somewhat content with himself. His face was relaxed, but watchful. Someti
mes, he hid in the woods and checked the reactions of his legionnaires as he slapped their shoulders or their horses suddenly. They improved their alertness and Marcus Lucius was a bit more satisfied with them. He didn't compliment them though. The amount of his critical remarks decreased.

  As he came back to the camp, he went to the tent for the wounded and jumped into a free pallet. In the meanwhile, some further soldiers got injured due to harder trainings. The wounds weren't mostly deep, but Marcus Lucius ordered to send such victims to the tent. The legionnaires assumed that he tried to give enough possibilities to his wife to take care about the injured soldiers. However, the most common implication of anyone, who go to the tent, was being ashamed. Nobody could reconstruct who started with the degrading remarks that just a fool would get injured during a training. A real soldier would get injured at the utmost during a real battle. The rumour started living own life and it won the unique power of motivate even the most unconvinced soldiers to surpass oneself just to avoid being sent to a kind of kindergarten.

  Nerva smiled dirty and ambiguously. He stood up early and took over the trainings. During the afternoon, he was responsible for the second patrol round and as he came back in the evening, he was a shadow of Julia. Rufus checked during the forenoon what Julia was doing. She was mostly occupied with more or less badly wounded soldiers. They were ashamed of needing her help and their proud look was mostly more injured as their bodies. As she douched their heads or arms, they tried not to look at her, they rolled their eyes, they cursed and sighed nervously and tried to scramble out of the tent, to go back to the fight. They looked like little children that were called by the mothers to eat a warm lunch and had to leave all great pals in the sandbox playing further. They were upset and displeased. She smiled to them mostly, because she found it funny. She got the rumour already. She took it with dignity and she didn't jeer about it. In opposite, she shared her relaxed and calm attitude as if she would have it abundantly.

  She didn't get that the legionnaires didn't dare to look at her a woman, because she was the wife of the Maxentius, a respected man, a pal, who accompany you during a guard, a patrol, a training... You don't steal the girlfriend of your best friend the same way you don't desire the woman of Maxentius. Nerva laughed about it as he saw the scenes and Julia asked him every time what amused him so much. He never answered.

  A kind of good mood though the foreboding was perceptive and Julia seemed to be one of the sources. Cornelius was one of the beings that weren't saw a lot, and even if he appeared or went through the alleys of the camp, soldiers looked at him, but didn't see him for real. Cornelius didn't like it at all. He tried to fight against the changes, so he ordered this and that, but his words were ignored. Strangely enough, any time Cornelius tried to find Marcus Lucius and talk with him, Marcus Lucius wasn't there, where he should be. As Cornelius got the report that Marcus Lucius was in training with the group of Nero, Marcus Lucius wasn't supervising Nero anymore when Cornelius appeared. As Marcus Lucius was seen on a checkpoint, he wasn't there anymore when Cornelius came after passing by tents and barracks. It was like hunting a ghost that appeared where he wanted and for how long he wanted, but vanished in the air in a magical way. Cornelius started doubting whether gods were on his own side or whether they supported Maxentius. Cornelius prayed for a change and the wind of change gusted once. Two and a half weeks after Julia came back from Londonium, Marcus Lucius was warned that a retinue was in sight. The train wasn't long, but the patter of the upcoming first centuria of the first cohort with around 800 men couldn't be ignored. It was led by primus pilus, who sat proudly on his black horse with a stony face. The first cohort included the bravest men from the legion and was twice the size of the other cohorts.

  Marcus Lucius, Rufus and Nerva didn't define their cohorts conclusively yet. They wanted to assign their legionnaires directly before the battle. They protracted it and they were aware of it. Nerva said that every soldiers has to know his place long before he will be send to a fight. Therefore, there were already attempts to form the units, but some ultimate changes were still possible. Nerva and Rufus didn't like it. Marcus Lucius wasn't sure whether it was a good or bad decision. There was not enough time for accomplishing everything. As Marcus Lucius got the wind of Pompeius coming to the camp, he wasn't satisfied with it. Nerva was on patrol, but apparently he got the rumours in the woods, so he came back surprisingly quickly. As long as Nerva didn't get back, Marcus Lucius didn't order anything. He was simply waiting and the time that was a rare good seemed to be overestimated at once. Every second seemed to be a minute, a minute changed into an hour and an hour felt like eternity. Marcus Lucius felt the sweat drops on his neck and the feeling of lost comfort. Shortly after Nerva returned to the camp, he disappeared again. As Pompeius stopped on the main square in the camp, he looked around with his sneaky eyes and within a moment, he got the needed overview.

  -Cornelius, the dear brother of Julius Fabius... - Pompeius droned with a friendly smile. - As I already announced, here I am.

  Cornelius stepped forwards and saluted properly. Pompeius squinted his eyes:

  -I can't see the best man on your side. Where is the famous Maxentius, the man of Julia from the Fabii family?

  -As far as I know he's on patrol. - Cornelius answered insecure and looked shortly to his adviser. The fat, unattractive man with little, vigorous eyes couldn't help with giving answer.

  -I hope he is not running away from me. I was disappointed as he didn't step by even once in the entire time he spent in Britannia.

  -Where can I spent my time? I won't celebrate the meeting with Maxentius in the camp. - Pompeius laughed amused.

  -I will accompany you to the villa.

  Everyone was surprised by hearing a voice out of the far lines and automatically, everyone looked in the direction of the man, whose voice reached to achieve Pompeius's ears without any problem. Pompeius hid his surprise quite quickly.

  -I assume you're my host. - Pompeius said and squinted to the man in a helmet.

  As Marcus Lucius started walking to Pompeius, the soldiers stepped back and let him through without any command.

  -I appreciate the company of you and your beautiful wife, Julia from the Fabii family.

  -She won't accompany us. She has other tasks to fulfil. - Marcus Lucius said.

  Pompeius didn't look satisfied and added:

  -What is more important than hosting the governor of the province you live in? - His ice tone was remarkable.

  -She takes care about our wounded legionnaires. She glorifies it as her most important task in the service of the empire. - Marcus Lucius answered calmly, but the sound of fast-break already hit Pompeius.

  -I think the emperor will be proud of her, when he gets to know her contribution. However, I would recognize highly, if she would participate in a late dinner with us. She is such a charming being that it is a pleasure to have her around.

  Marcus Lucius wasn't happy about such reply, but he didn't show it. After he minimally moved his head, Nerva appeared and behind Nerva, Julia came slowly, with wet kerchief in her hand and a dirty dress that she wore.

  Pompeius smiled friendly and waited until Marcus Lucius mounted the horse and lifted Julia to sit down behind him. Pompeius looked that Marcus Lucius gave a sign to Rufus and it was impossible to decode it. Nerva followed Marcus Lucius and mounted a horse. The legionnaires were about to go back to their trainings. The majority of Pompeius's troops stayed in the camp and just a bunch of them accompanied the chosen ones to the villa. Pompeius wondered aloud why Marcus Lucius didn't take any further soldiers as his escort.

  -Is one soldier enough? - He laughed politely.

  -Every soldier counts. - Marcus Lucius answered and it was the last thing the legionnaires from his camp heard and repeated in conspiracy. They didn't like the stranger governor, who appeared here and spread chaos. Rufus intervened quickly and ordered continuing the training. Pompeius's men watched how the soldiers from Eboracum pretended to fight with
each other and commented it aloud. Their remarks weren't nicely articulated. It felt like a fly in the ointment.

  In the meanwhile, Marcus Lucius invited the prestigious guest in the house. Pompeius went into the best room and was positively surprised by the already prepared wine and food.

  -You knew that I am coming and you didn't run away. - Pompeius said, while he attentively observed Marcus Lucius's reaction. Marcus Lucius nodded shortly. It wasn't clear how his answer it should be interpreted. A tension was so much perceptive in the air that almost direct current electrified the majority involved in the meeting. Pompeius's soldiers observed Nerva. Nerva's body showed the highest readiness for a defence. Julia followed Pompeius's movements and took a peep at Nerva every now and then. Pompeius was focussed on Marcus Lucius. Only Marcus Lucius seemed to know how to stay calm. His body wasn't tensed, but it wasn't completely relaxed either. Pompeius wondered about it. As he waggled briefly suddenly with his hand, Marcus Lucius moved minimally in a way that Pompeius didn't expect. Pompeius repeated the manoeuvre and Marcus Lucius didn't duck, but his bouncy, dynamic body acted automatically in a way that betrayed a well-trained man.

  -You're not Maxentius. - Pompeius said finally and smiled bitingly, but curious. - Who are you then?

  As Marcus Lucius didn't answer, Pompeius gestured shortly. His soldiers reacted quickly, but in the meanwhile, Nerva was already positioned to protect Julia and Marcus Lucius jumped within one move to the two.

  -Before you let the blood of your soldier flow in this house, let us talk in private. - Marcus Lucius suggested.

  Pompeius smiled and refused with a minimal movement of his head. His soldiers attacked Marcus Lucius, but he was faster and agile. He beat the offenders off and repeated his last suggestion. Pompeius refused again. He intended not to come on strong with the skilled soldier. As Marcus Lucius ducked in a genial way. It was a pleasure to observe him fighting. However, he was really fast and it wasn't easy to follow him. Within a couple of moves, he already wounded every of Pompeius's guards. His adroit and skilled hand pushed the sword with a minimal effort. The spare energy he spent for the fight was astonishing. He got two scratches, but he won over eight men. Julia screamed shortly, because she saw Marcus Lucius's getting hurt, Nerva put her his hand on the lips. Pompeius automatically looked at the girl and Nerva, who whispered her two or three words in the ear. She pressed her lips and kept silence.

  As Pompeius's men stepped back and wanted to crowd in on Marcus Lucius again, Pompeius suddenly ordered to stop the fight.

  -Now, I know for sure that you're not Maxentius, so who are you, soldier? Another man from Appius's school?

  Nerva didn't react on the insulting tone. Marcus Lucius was ready to fight again, but he didn't intend to fight.

  -Take your helmet off. - Pompeius ordered.

  Marcus Lucius didn't act the way Pompeius wished.

  -You can fight as long as you wish, but you will lose at the end. And I will bring you a very painful death. So, tell me, who are you?

  -I tell you something that is more interesting to you. - Marcus Lucius said.

  Pompeius squinted his eyes.

  -Why do you assume there is something I want to know much more than your identity? - Pompeius seemed to be interested.

  -You are a man who puts emphasis on having success and stepping higher in the ranks. I know something that brings you much further than my identity.

  Pompeius waited for the continuation of the announcement. His tension was visible. His soldiers stepped back, but were ready to attack again any time.

  -If I help you to get your success, will you leave these both go right now without any charm?

  -No. I won't let them go until I know the stake.

  -Britannia is the pain in the ass, as I heard. I know how you can change it completely. You need it to report it to the emperor directly. You will have your fame and respect. The wager stands in front of you. These both have to stay free...

  -I know who you are. I know the voice, but you're much younger as the man I knew once. - Pompeius interrupted suddenly.

  -My identity is not important for this mission. You really need me, not them. Do we have a deal?

  -I don't make deals with traitors... - Pompeius answered quickly. Then, he analysed the situation for a moment and was confused. The idea of solving the problem with Britannia seemed to be seductive enough to break his principles.his tone changed into rather reflective talk with himself. - I don't make deals before the attempt succeeds. If I let them go right now, I will stay with unmotivated soldier. You're skilled, but you could let anyone kill you and I wouldn't get what I am supposed to get. So, no, they're not free unless you define the matter more detailed. They will stay in the camp surrounded by Cornelius's soldiers. She comes back to taking care of the wounded and he can stay at her side. For all I care... You stay at my side and we'll talk about your stake in private.

  -Fair enough. - Marcus Lucius agreed surprisingly quickly as if he already planned it that way.

  -You are aware that any attack on me is a death sentence for your Julia from the Fabii family.

  -Yes. - Marcus Lucius answered with less friendly tone. - However, if she will get injured in any way, if she will get insulted in any way, you have my word that you will regret it a lot.

  -Fair enough. - Pompeius agreed without any emotion. He was rather interested in another issue that wasn't solved yet. - Show me your face, Marcus Lucius.

  Marcus Lucius stood proudly and didn't wonder that Pompeius recognized him already. Marcus Lucius took off his helmet and looked provocatively at Pompeius. Pompeius smiled relieved.

  -So here how the son of one of the greatest warriors I got to know in my life looks like.

  -This is it. - Marcus Lucius said. - This is how we meet.

  -Good. You have my word that our deal won't be broken by me. I look for success, but I am a man of honour. You stay undercover as long as it is needed to fulfil your mission. - Pompeius stretched his hand to Marcus Lucius and he accepted. After a short, but strong hand shake, Marcus Lucius saw how the soldiers of Pompeius stepped back and let Nerva and Julia to go out. Julia was ashen on her face and her cheeks were saggy. Nerva kept her hand strongly and pulled her out of the villa. Marcus Lucius listened how Nerva's mere left the yard. He smiled.

  Marcus Lucius didn't care about Pompeius's honour. He knew that Pompeius was rather interested in getting all compliments and respect for solving the problem of Britannia. Pompeius discovered already who Marcus Lucius was. Marcus Lucius knew that Pompeius knew his father, at least shortly. Therefore, it wasn't surprising that Pompeius looked through the mascarade. Pompeius was a open-eyed and not stupid. He could add one and one and get the right result. Other way, he wouldn't get his position so quickly. It was important that Pompeius follows the track that Marcus Lucius already planned. Up to that point, everything was according to schedule of Marcus Lucius. Nerva and Julia weren't informed about this plan, because they should react surprised. Pompeius would get that the situation was more or less already predicted and that he was let by Marcus Lucius. It wasn't aimed. Nerva knew the worst case scenario. Rufus knew also what to do, if Marcus Lucius wouldn't come back alive to the camp. They knew how they were supposed to proceed before and after the battle.

  Pompeius sat down at the table and started eating as if nothing happened. He moved his head in a welcoming gesture. Marcus Lucius was supposed to sit down and eat something, too. After Marcus Lucius checked briefly his scratches, he sat down and pretended to enjoy the dinner. The slaves stayed in the background and came closer, when the wine or bread were needed. During the meal, Marcus Lucius calmly reported about the upcoming battle without noticing his skills and contacts to the local inhabitants.

  -And you know where the camp of these Barbarians is?

  -Yes.

  -So we go there and kill them all. - Pompeius said as if it was the most easy way to act.

  -No. We won't. - Marcus Lucius refused. - That's a region with mountain
s, hills. It's not good to attack there. We'll bring them to us. I have already a plan and I prepared everything already. You don't have to do anything. Keep your soldiers behind mine.

  -You mean Cornelius's soldiers? - Pompeius laughed and it sounded cordially for the very first time.

  Marcus Lucius smiled.

  -Yes, I mean Cornelius's soldiers, of course.

  -So, I won't have to do anything and you win the battle for me. It's not the solution I expected. It's not enough. - Pompeius was rather disappointed.

  -It is the solution. The men from the North gathered their forces and when we won over them, they won't be able to find any further support. Your soldiers have to stay behind mine. They can't be seen by the Barbarians.

  Marcus Lucius explained the different aspects of his plan and the sense of hiding of Pompeius's soldiers. Pompeius's recognition for Marcus Lucius increased a bit, but there was still no expression of being totally impressed.

  -When they start moving in our direction, we'll get the signal and we'll be waiting for them. They don't expect it.

  -That's the reason why you trained your men so extremely in these days.

  -I've tried. If they're not powerful enough, your men will intervene. The way or another, you will get your recognition as the commander of the battle. You're up for titles, so collect one more.

  -I am not disappointed anymore that I visited you, but I've expected a bit more from Maximus's son. - Pompeius said and showed Marcus Lucius that the dinner was over. Then, he brought him to the basement and opened one of cells made for prisoning people.

  -You don't trust me. - Marcus Lucius said and smiled.

  -I'm completely convinced that you won't get free from here. I wouldn't get sleep if I would keep you even guarded in your chamber. My soldiers will stay here and keep you in the eye.

  Pompeius didn't smile. As he closed the grid after Marcus Lucius stepped into the cell, Pompeius wanted to add something, but he bit his tongue quickly enough to avoid any word. He left, but sent Marcus Lucius a blanket to cover. Basement was very cold. The one slave Marcus Lucius prisoned here once, was already dead. His body didn't fall to pieces due to the coldness of the days and nights. It was possible to bear the odour of the dead body, too. Marcus Lucius used the moment to get a piece of sleep.

 

  The night wasn't easeful. Marcus Lucius sat captured in a gloomy, cold cell. The darkness wasn't his enemy. In opposite. It hid his doubting face, his furious eyes. He thought about his obligations, his attempts to do the right things, to protect the people he cared about. He thought about Julia, who was still alive, but lonely and scared. He didn't tell her anything. He asked Nerva to summarize the situation. Marcus Lucius felt like a coward. He was scared that he would lose control suddenly, if he would only say a word about the dangers around. It was indeed childish to think that not speaking aloud about something you know makes it invisible or non-perceptive. It was like closing the eyes and trying to be convinced that the monster from the wardrobe didn't exist anymore. Marcus Lucius knew already the power of words. The meaning of a word spoken aloud and a word just rushing through mind was completely different. He's protective attempt to keep Julia away from the danger weren't right, because she was totally involved into the dangerous place. He wasn't able to send her away and he wasn't able to keep her safe. He already lost one women who was important in his life. Reminding Decima didn't improve his mood. In opposite, it made him thinking that he could possibly lose Julia. But they didn't even had a moment to say goodbye. They hadn't a moment to kiss for the last time. They hadn't enough time to love each other. It was all too less. He should have tried to stay a couple of minutes longer at her side. He should have appreciate more the time spent with her while he was really at her side. Now, it was all gone, irreplaceably gone with the wind. The most tricky thought hugged him like almost lover and whispered to his mind that it was all Marcus Lucius's fault. He knew what he was doing. He was the decision-maker and he blundered into the situation he has been influencing since he decided to help Appius or to protect the unknown girl. A blurry memory occurred and he recognized Julia's eyes looking at him while her real husband was dying, the Barbarians were killing the slaves and a wagon was burning some steps away from the girl. Marcus Lucius reminded the very first moment he saw her and as his heart completely felt apart due to the pain caused by losing Decima. His heart almost jumped out of his chest and he wanted to kill anyone. The Barbarians could have been a good start. He couldn't take his eyes off the innocent, sad, aggrieved face impression. She looked at him with insecure dignity, honour, loyalty and at the same time also challenging as if she was going to say: “Will you leave me the same way you left your wife?” It made him madly, angry. He was like a furious Poseidon, who raised the waves of oceans every now and then, who moved the heavy, stable masses of water and played with them negligently. Marcus Lucius's most tricky thought presented the sources and the consequences of his actions. He couldn't fight against his own memories.

  Julia couldn't sleep either. She couldn't find any place she could internally calm down. Her moves were full of nervosity and restless insecurity. Nerva stayed closer and wasn't able to ignore her enough to give him time to rest. As she stayed and her fingers trembled, he came closer and listened as she asked herself quietly “What have I done? What have I done?”. She repeated it endlessly and Nerva, who really liked her voice, didn't like to listen to her words anymore. He stepped back and observed how she sat down next to wounded and wiped his sweat drops. “What have I done? What have I done?” She didn't stop asking herself the silly, galling question. What could she have done? She had no clue what was going to happen. Nerva expected something like the day that just ended, but he didn't expect it occurring of all things that day. He noticed that Marcus Lucius acted in cold blood today and Nerva wasn't sure whether it was already prepared behaviour or whether it was just a trained bodily reaction, a kind of reflex that Marcus Lucius incorporated into his soldier's being. Nerva tried already a couple of times to be so self-controlled and calm, but he mostly didn't manage it fully. He wasn't the way Marcus Lucius or Octavian were. He got involved, even if he didn't admit it. Therefore, he followed Julia. When she was unsettled, he was unsettled. When she was sad, he was sad. When she was asking herself what she has done, he asked himself what he has done. He followed orders without doubting about anything. Appius sent him here and there, Nerva was on the road. Marcus Lucius gave him patrol loops, Nerva took over everything he got. Nerva followed anyone he could trust and he was like a puppy that enjoys any bone that his master gives him. Nerva didn't complaint, Nerva didn't put into question anything. “What have I done?” brought his world apart. The often he heard it the more he bleeded inside.

  -Stop it. - He said finally with a shadow of beseeching.

  His begging tone didn't influence Julia at all. It wasn't noticeable for her. She was too occupied with her own problems and continued repeating her question. Nerva was annoyed enough and exploded finally:

  -Stop it. Stop it. Stop it. - He said quietly to not attract attention of medico, who gazed every now and then in their direction.

  Julia stood in a corner of the tent and Nerva blocked her any opportunity to exist. She turned to him, the she turned back. She couldn't decide what to do. He grasped her arms and forced her to look at him.

  -Stop it. - He said determined and it wasn't a calm, gentle whisper. It was an order.

  As she looked at him with big eyes and trembling lips, he felt unarmed and weak. He was the one who should protect her and he wasn't even able to resist to such a jellyfish. Her weakness was her strength and the idea confused him even more. He couldn't look her in the eyes, he couldn't let her trembling being go and that was the reason of his impulsive hug. He held her faint nature tenaciously in his arms and waited until she calmed down. It didn't happen and he was afraid that he squashed her like a bug with his power. She didn't tremble anymore, instead, her breath became faster. Nerva already saw soldiers wh
o were totally down and out of order. A frightening thought appeared that she was falling apart and she wouldn't be able to put her pieces together again. Hugging didn't help at all, even if it was an impulse of his heart. With which right was he even hoping for any improvement? He doubted and couldn't decide what to do next. He wasn't the creative doer. He was the one, who was a splendid order-taker. It took a while until he decided to let her go. He was a bit ashamed in the moment when he gave her back the freedom of movements and he couldn't find any argument why he felt so dumb.

  -Stop it or say what's on your heart. - He added quickly and he was even surprised by his own words. He was out of line he used to keep at any price. Stepping beyond the line was a death penalty. Nerva learnt it quickly. He wasn't used to go deeper into a matter. He stayed on the surface and it was very comfortable. Making decision brings responsibilities and Nerva hadn't any will to take over any obligation he didn't need. This time, he stepped beyond the line of triviality. It was a virgin territory he entered and he didn't feel good. However, keeping any shadow of the shallowness wouldn't make him happy, either.

  Julia stepped back, even if there wasn't enough space to make any move. She felt trapped and breathed shortly, rushy. She hyperventilated, but Nerva wasn't scared. He could at least help her.

  -Breath in. Breath out. - He advised.

  She sat down by using the wall of the tent behind her to slide to the ground. Her eyes looked wet and Nerva didn't wish to see her tears. He was already uncomfortable with her sensibility and he was afraid that he won't handle the situation correctly. Marcus Lucius didn't get any orders how to supervise Julia. Nerva knew how to handle women shortly, bodily, but he didn't care about their souls. Here, he had to cook up with anything. He kneed in front of her and he took her hand. Then, he laid her hand on his neck, just below his left ear. As she felt his heartbeat on his vein, she shivered shortly, but with the time, she calmed down completely. Her touch was pleasing, even if she wasn't doing anything. Maybe the reduction of different stimulus types was the magic ingredient that influenced the situation. Nerva felt a kind of excitement and affection. He couldn't and didn't want to define it closer. He was overchallenged. It scared him a lot. As Julia's eyes finally shut, as her head felt to his armoured chest and as he acted in thunder's speed to catch her tired, sleepy face in his arms, he thought that he never cared more about anyone than about the girl he had so close to him right now. It was a bit sexual, it was a bit friendly, it was strange. He leant her head on his unarmed shoulder after he carefully turned to the wall of the tent. The material wasn't stable enough to steady his back on it, so he moved his chest in the opposite direction in the case he would fall asleep and move forwards. It was a cold night, but he ignored it. Sitting on the ground wasn't comfortable, but he didn't notice it at all. He tried to keep the silence and listened to the wind outside. He was waiting for a better day. New situation was too less predictable to feel cosy in mind.

  The next day was even more awkward, but everyone survived it strangely enough. Marcus Lucius was forced to stay in the prison in Maxentius's house cellar. Pompeius appeared there after breakfast. His eyes sparkled with undefined smile. Marcus Lucius didn't say a word, he didn't salute, he ignored Pompeius's presence completely. However, Pompeius knew that Marcus Lucius noticed the visitor.

  -Why don't you beg, son of a great warrior? - Pompeius's voice sounded ironic, unpleasant, like a sword that comes through human body.

  Marcus Lucius didn't seem to be intimidated. Instead, he looked as sad as he could only be. Pompeius's joy was immeasurable. He weltered in the moment and gazed at Marcus Lucius with increasing curiosity.

  -Why don't you plead for mitigation of sentence? - Pompeius didn't give up.

  Marcus Lucius didn't react in any visible way. He indeed listened to Pompeius's words, but he didn't rise to provocation. Pompeius came closer to the grid and as he put his left hand on cold, unpleasant bars, he whispered with sneering smile:

  -You don't think it's your highest punishment... You should recognize why I won't kill you or why I won't kill her. It would be too merciful. Killing her would bring your rage and I need your service. Killing you would eliminate your service I need. - Pompeius whispered and his voice became impersonal, distant. He made a short pause and then, he continued with ice in his heart and observed how Marcus Lucius was fighting with the reflex to jump to the bars, to hurt the offender and as Marcus Lucius finally controlled himself with the last power of his mind. Pompeius observed how Marcus Lucius's eyes became smaller, enemy, inhuman. - Now, I know for sure I'm punishing you hard enough. Your wife and you're soldier... They get closer and closer as the days pass. She's with Nerva. If you can't see what is wrong with the state "Your woman is with your soldier", then I've made mistake, and you really don't care about it. In this way, we're never going to get anywhere. She's with Nerva. And if she's with Nerva that means she's not with you. And it kills you. That's your punishment. Your mind and your affection will kill you slowly, hostile, alone...

  Pompeius turned as didn't notice the smile of Marcus Lucius. He was a kind of relieved, because the fact that Julia was under protection of Nerva meant that she was safe. Marcus Lucius didn't wish anything more than to be sure that she was safe. Keeping her in arms was a dream that could happen one day, but for the moment, he needed to stay realistic. Knowing that she was safe, unwounded and alive brought him internal piece. Marcus Lucius trusted Nerva. Everything seemed to be fine in a strange way.

  Pompeius left the cellar and the torches that brought any kind of light were dashed off. Darkness absorbed Marcus Lucius and it's gloomy side hugged his soul and brought a needed level of calmness.

  Nerva kept silence and manoeuvred between the trainings and the sanitary station. Even if he didn't agreed anything with Julia, she followed him like young ducks with short but unusually strong wings follow the mother after hatching to a body of water. She toddled with less grace than usually, bit still with enough female charm to raise the attention of soldiers at training. Nerva had to promise once Marcus Lucius two things. It was one of the short exchanges of patrol shifts that didn't require Julia's presence. The briefly reports of what happened and what should stay in focus were included in such moments.

  -When Cornelius comes back, we have to keep the tempo and the intensity of trainings. You have to promise that whatever happens, you'll take over being in charge.

  Nerva nodded, because he was convinced that such situation would never occur. The danger was perceptible, but Nerva was still not morally certain that anything bad could happen. Bad things happened every day. Nerva saw already enough examples in his life. There were Barbarians. There was illness. There was rat race to get enough power to eliminate the previous opponents or to show them what tiny, unimportant bugs they became. It all was somewhere else. Nerva didn't like the idea that the evil could interrupt the good times. Living in conspiracy was full of nice routine. He wanted to live it that way as long as it was possible. He was like one of these people, who were warned about coming danger, and they smiled politely and stayed in their houses not believing that anything could change soon. They got the forewarning and they knew that the danger was coming. Still, they didn't believe it and were surprised that such evil could cross their fates. The same way Nerva felt as already announced Cornelius's review and visit of Pompeius became real the same way God sent a miraculous sign of warning – Moses' brother's rod turned into a serpent or Pharaoh's sorcerers turned their staffs into snakes. The plague of blood, frogs, lice or gnats, flies or wild animals, pestilence, boils, hail, locusts, darkness, and finally the plague of firstborn followed the same way Pompeius prisoned Marcus Lucius. Nerva wasn't ready to think about what could happen next. He knew that a battle should take place. He knew that the battle would demand sacrifices and the range or form of these sacrifices wasn't known. Nerva never took part in such a fight. Appius kept him away from the field and sent straight through the entire empire. Nerva talked once with Octavian how the protectio
n of borders really looked like. The heavily and seriously wounded and killed soldiers were proofs the same way a long, healed scar proves a serious injury. The survivors didn't talk about the experienced moments. The “don't ask, don't tell” principle was extremely valid.

  Nerva wasn't scared of having scars. He even didn't feel comfortable to be wounded. What he was afraid of was the moment after you already know how badly your injury is. If the death could come quickly, then it wasn't a problem. However, if the help would come too late or in not sufficient enough way, then the pain could bring more damages than a killing. Sometimes, it is harder to live than to die on the battle field. Nerva reminded Marcus Lucius's unconsciousness and it wasn't the worst case he saw. Marcus Lucius was badly hurt, but he was lucky enough to get care of Julia. Nerva wasn't sure who would take care of him. Looking how the soldiers were training and giving them hints was a good task, but it would be even better, if Marcus Lucius would be there. Marcus Lucius was a skilled soldier, who could train people the same way that Appius did. Appius had enough experience to give his know-how further. Even Octavian would be a better trainer than Nerva. It was disappointing. However, such thought was even better than the sorrows about Marcus Lucius's incalculable life as a prisoner or about Julia's inestimable depth of dolefulness. Her gloomy, silent steps and bright, a bit faded blue shade of the dirty, blood-smeared dress made her look ghostly, supernaturally. If anyone would think about any messenger of Hades, the god of the underworld, then Julia could be Hades's most beautiful messenger in the whole world. Her sallow face with eyes without any fire, faint smile on her wan lips brought anyone to step away from her track. Nerva noticed that she didn't look for any contact with anyone. She simply followed him. He was afraid that letting her alone would just bring her to irreversible acts. He took away her dagger and didn't lose her from his horizon even for a moment.

  The negative connotation with Hades caught him as he listened to what she declaimed to herself. She repeated the words of Achilles. His lips moved, but Nerva had to make a push to understand what she was speaking:

  "O shining Odysseus, never try to console me for dying.

  I would rather follow the plow as thrall to another

  man, one with no land allotted to him and not much to live on,

  than be a king over all the perished dead."

  She declaimed it in a never-ending loop and Nerva could explode around noon. He wanted to choke up her mouth with food, but she didn't eat anything. His hawks and attempts to force her with words didn't help. However, she continued moving her lips, but Nerva didn't listen her words anymore. Still, he knew what she was repeating and even without a sound, it was irritating. He sent her a couple of hostile looks, but she ignored it. He sighted very heavily every now and then. While he stopped, turned back and had a short look at her, her untogetherness brought him out of the concept. In the moment, he saw her empty eyes and unstoppable lips, a corner of his heart got a cramped up and imploded. As Nerva wanted to distract himself, he couldn't get any other thought than the memorable story about people from areas defeated once by the forces of the Macedonian Greek ruler Alexander the Great at the Battle of Gaugamela. These people used to believe that the shade or spirit called gidim of the deceased was created at the time of death, and then left the body and descended to the netherworld, called Irkalla. Gidim took on the memory and personality of the dead person. Julia looked like her own gidim at that point.

  Nerva remembered how Octavian told him such stories. His friend got it from Appius once and Appius got it from Maximus. Nerva wondered whether Marcus Lucius knew these legends. It wasn't possible to check it directly. Additionally, Nerva's mind made a detour and his thoughts were already circulating around Marcus Lucius being in prison. Then, Nerva sighed again, turned away from Julia and continued his route between one group of soldiers to another.

  Rufus sent patrols in the woods and set sentries in the places that Marcus Lucius already predefined. Rufus waited for the signal that Marcus Lucius described and wondered how Marcus Lucius was able to predict so many things by not knowing the surrounding and the local inhabitants for ages. Rufus didn't raise any question and he didn't distract his mind with any sorrows. He was already signed up for Eboracum and he wouldn't get out there at any time, because his person was bounded to Cornelius. Appius sent him to Britannia years ago and Rufus already familiarized with the punishment. There were no visible chances for change in sight. Rufus gave up any hope and even the incident with Marcus Lucius couldn't bring any long-term switch-over. Rufus had to stay loyal though, because Marcus Lucius was a nice and needed refreshment in the years of stagnation. Marcus Lucius had the power to raise anger about the motionless and to motivate masses to act. Rufus asked himself what it could change, anyway. There was always a bloody fight somewhere. There was always a camp that would be attacked and destroyed. Soldiers could get killed every time and everywhere. Arms race brought just new improvements within torture and killing methods. The principle stayed the same. Rufus didn't feel good in Britannia, because coming to a foreign land and converting the area with all living beings wasn't the kind of strategy he wanted to support. Marcus Lucius's attempt to improve skills of legionnaires was nice, but the final aim was everything but nice in Rufus's eyes. He already saw enough motivated young men killed with hope in their eyes in a hopeless fight. Rufus didn't interrupt Marcus Lucius, but Rufus try to support Marcus Lucius more than ordered. As the amount of orders and the level of their intensity increased, Rufus got worried, but he was already too involved to ignore the friends in need. He already knew that Marcus Lucius and Nerva were good men and that Julia was a good woman. He didn't intend to support the upcoming battle. He wanted to back up the people that shouldn't die. He thought that giving them a chance to escape from Britannia would be a good deed for a day. He needed time to countercheck the possibilities and probabilities of movements. His problem was that he was running out of time.

  He sent his own messenger to Appius requesting a hint. Rufus didn't get any answer yet and was disappointed again. Appius was a great, skilled trainer in the eyes of many. Maybe Appius was even the best trainer of his times. However, Appius was a person that let down people in need. That was the irritating point. Rufus hoped that Appius would try to save at least the son of his best friend. Rufus recognized Marcus Lucius the first time he saw Maximus's son. Marcus Lucius had the same bone structure and the same eyes as his father. Maxentius was similarly tall and maybe more muscled, but not necessarily more powerful. Indeed, Rufus didn't have many occasions to meet Maximus personally, but the remarkable personality like Maximus implied a catchy memory.

  Marcus Lucius was a good boy, a skilled soldier, a motivated strategist. He could achieve a lot of things and sending him to Britannia and letting him playing Maxentius was more than simply ironic. Rufus expected Appius to clear the situation quickly, because keeping Marcus Lucius hidden from the world was a waste of his skills and talent. Even if Rufus didn't like the entire conquests and wars, he recognized when something went completely wrong.

  Julia was almost sure that the reality was unreal. The reality was too cruel, too upsetting, too strange be be real. She understand what happened, but she couldn't understand the state she was in. Existing so close and so far away from the love of her life brought confusion and madness. She focussed on verses from her favourite epos. It helped a lot to repeat known phrases and to think about Achilles, the undefeated warrior. As long as nobody knew what his heel was, he could live forever. It was the kind of silly hope she needed to stay calm enough.

  The next day was similar to the previous one. Marcus Lucius was kept in darkness, in a gloomy cell with a corpse of a man, who he punished himself with a death penalty. Pompeius stepped just shortly by and smiled with his tricky, distorted way. Julia almost didn't sleep and the bags under her eyes couldn't be omitted. Nerva, irritated by the gidim behind him, continued to go from one end of the camp to another and Rufus kept his silent, inferior attitude.


  The night brought some news that Nerva welcomed with a relieved smile. The soldiers predefined to keep watch in the woods sent a signal that the enemy appeared far enough to start the war manoeuvre. Nerva knew what to do so he took over the command. Cornelius was steamed-up about this sudden revolution. He was convinced that he was the boss again.

  As Nerva appeared in Maxentius's villa, Pompeius was more than just surprised.

  -What brings you, the soldier of Appius? - Pompeius squinted and tried to wake up completely. It was the middle of the night and any disruption of his sleep could be punished in the hardest way. His guards woke him up to inform that Nerva ordered to get a visit with Marcus Lucius.

  -I have to talk with Marcus Lucius. - Nerva answered without any salutation.

  -Your lack of respect brings me to conclusions that are not inconvenient for you, soldier. - Pompeius sounded irritated.

  -I serve Marcus Lucius. I need to see him. That's all what I have to say in that matter.

  -And where is Julia, the daughter of Julius? - Pompeius looked around and a small gesture was a sign to look after the girl. - I've heard you're joint at the hip.

  The suggestiveness had no influence on Nerva, who had other problems and needed orders immediately. The iron will in Nerva's face was visible and remarkable. Pompeius noticed that it wasn't just a small-mindedness, but a real necessity.

  He accompanied Nerva to Marcus Lucius and stayed close enough to them to listen to their talk, even if they didn't whisper.

  Marcus Lucius was sleepy. He didn't get anything to eat for two days and his hunger started killing him. Luckily enough, he got twice water, so he could at least drink anything. As he saw Nerva, he smiled confidentially. He already knew what news Nerva brought, because his friend's face showed a strict military character. There were no private sorrows to find.

  -Well done. - Marcus Lucius welcomed Nerva.

  -What's next?

  -Did you already informed involved people? - Marcus Lucius asked resolutely and saw Nerva's nod. It meant that Nerva already sent Julia to Cunobarros, what had a crucial private impact, and that Cunobarros knew the entire situation, what was of professional nature.

  -We can proceed as you ordered already. - Nerva confirmed and meant that the preparation on soldiers's side and on Cunobarros's side were completed as far as possible.

  Pompeius wondered what Marcus Lucius and Nerva were talking about. The context of the sentences they exchanged was inexplicable.

  -Which orders do you mean? - Pompeius asked nervously.

  -Pompeius... - Marcus Lucius started and looked directly to his offender's face. - You have to set me free for a moment.

  Pompeius laughed and mentioned that he was still dreaming, because he couldn't bear such nonsense in reality. Marcus Lucius wasn't joking. His serious, reliable face expression forced Pompeius to think over. In the limited space of the basement stinking after ratty human and animal corpses, concentrating on a matter wasn't easy.

  -Let me go for the time that is needed to win the battle. I will win it for you, in the name of the governor. Then, I will come back and you can proceed the way you deem to be right.

  Marcus Lucius's words were seductive, but Pompeius missed the background. He needed explanation of the probabilities related to the apparently set battle, for reasons and stakes. He didn't trust anyone, so he didn't like the deal Marcus Lucius suggested.

  Marcus Lucius explained shortly that his point men confirmed that the enemy from North of Britannia was at the gate. It meant that the battle could start early in the morning. Marcus Lucius had to prepare the last actions before anything started. Additionally, it would be supportive for the legionnaires to see him fighting on their sides. Not questionable was the input of his skills in the battle.

  Pompeius stood nervously and his face expressions showed that he wasn't amused about preparations behind his back and about not giving any background up to the moment of decision. What irritated him the most was the fact that he wouldn't do it differently if he would be Marcus Lucius. However, he would use the moment of congee to flee. He would try to save his own hide. Marcus Lucius didn't seem to take it into consideration, but it had to be agreed first. Marcus Lucius was a man of honour, so he had to give a word of obedience to Pompeius.

  -If you leave me your woman as a pledge, then you can leave the cell immediately.

  Nerva showed his irritation for the very first time that night. Marcus Lucius smiled.

  -She's already far away from this place. She's safe. I don't have to do anything, but I want to help the legionnaires to keep their lives. It's not even about my life anymore. The question is whether you allow to win me this battle for you or whether you decide to lose it under your own flag.

  Pompeius wasn't satisfied with the extortion. The girl wasn't important to him as long as he could steer Marcus Lucius's behaviour in the wished way. While the girl was probably somewhere on the way back from Britannia, there had to be another remedy to influence the situation. Even through the grid, Marcus Lucius was the demanding party. Pompeius showed his dislike visibly, even if not exaggerated. He cursed twice aloud for being airy and stupid enough to lose his badger game. He said he underestimated Marcus Lucius definitely. It was a big failure. Marcus Lucius stayed calm. There were no remarks of satisfaction in his face. There was a kind of peace in his eyes, mixed with the fever before a fight that Pompeius knew already from Maximus. It ran definitely in the blood.

  -You can exchange the places, you and your soldier. - Pompeius said finally with a minimal smile. His eyes followed watchful the reaction of Nerva. Marcus Lucius's face expression didn't change, but Nerva showed readiness to change the places. At first then, Marcus Lucius shook his head minimally as if he wanted to give Nerva the sign to stop. Nerva was not the youngest soldier, but his temper was easy to influence. Pompeius smiled even brighter and waited for Marcus Lucius's comment.

  -Keeping Nerva here won't improve your situation. - Marcus Lucius said. - I give you my word that I will come back, but I need Nerva at my side, if you want to win the battle for you.

  Marcus Lucius spoke calm and clear. He didn't smile like a winner or like a jeerer. He was a professional and Pompeius respected it. Pompeius already met too often inept soldiers on different levels of their career. He needed anyone, who could hold on the old values. Marcus Lucius was an opponent that was worth of playing a game with, teaching him a lesson.

  -You gave me your word. You'll be my soldier. - Pompeius said.

  -I gave you my word to come back, not for being under your command. - Marcus Lucius corrected.

  Pompeius smiled with acclaim and nodded. Within seconds, the bars got opened and Marcus Lucius stepped slowly out of the cell.

  -Go and prepare yourself. I'll be watching you.

  Pompeius observed how Marcus Lucius didn't hesitate and left the villa. Pompeius's soldiers asked whether they should follow the temporarily freed prisoner. Pompeius refused without giving any reason. His guards were surprised, but didn't comment it. Pompeius ordered to leave the villa and the camp before the sunrise.

  -Let our cohorts be under his command. - Pompeius added coldly.

  -Sir, are you sure? - Pompeius's closest soldier, primus pilus, a tall, thin, raven-haired man with eyes of spy doubted for the very first time in the power of judgement of his master.

  -Antoninus, do what I've said.

  Marcus Lucius got his horse and a torch to be able to find the way to the camp. Previously, he turned off the road and stepped shortly by Cunobarros. Only Nerva accompanied him. Cunobarros stood already in front of the cottage, where Julia was kept after her attempt to get free once. He didn't let them in. they all stayed outside. Their silhouettes weren't easy to recognize due to the limited light of torches. The moon was just a half of itself. The woods kept silence as two Romans and one Barbarian saluted in the welcoming ritual. On Cunobarros's face was excitement. His eyes sparkled wildly, vividly.

  -It's the time. - Cunobarros said. Apparently, he
enjoyed the idea of the upcoming fight. - It's all the way you planned it.

  Marcus Lucius nodded once shortly and gave further orders. They were battle-oriented and included precise disposals for Cunobarros' men. Cunobarros wasn't satisfied with holding his men from the fight.

  -We have soldiers, who are trained for it. We need your people to get involved in the fight first then, when we won't be able to beat the men from North off. We don't need your blood flowing senseless on the ground of your ancestors.

  Marcus Lucius's explanation was good, but still, Cunobarros wasn't satisfied enough.

  -It's our land and we should fight here.

  -I don't put into question whose land it is. - Marcus Lucius was calm, but the excitement infected him a bit. He wasn't a machine to stay emotionless in such energized moment. - I gave you my word to stay here and to do my best. Keeping you away from the battle field, if your contribution is not needed, belongs to doing my best. Your people will stay on the outer ranks and if I give you a sign, they will get involved into the fight. Keep them away from the field as long as you won't get the signal.

  Cunobarros nodded not completely convinced. He didn't like to play a coward, to stay away, when other got killed.

  -Trust me, Cunobarros, we'll do it, but we have to do it right.

  Nerva stood impatiently and his hands trembled. He was excited and angry and everything but calm. Having Marcus Lucius in sight was like getting a medico's help, if needed. Cunobarros's fever brought him out of order and influenced his will of fight. His fury directed to Pompeius could be used in the battle. At the moment, everything had sense.

  As orders and signs were already arranged, Marcus Lucius wanted to add something, but the words didn't leave his mouth. He was blocked by unknown powers and his eyes didn't sparkle anymore. Cunobarros saw the sudden sorrow and smiled.

  -You gave me your word. I gave you mine.

  Marcus Lucius nodded hastily and pressed his lips strongly together. He wasn't even able to say a simple “Thank you”. Cunobarros showed him with a wink of his hand to go to the cottage.

  -You don't have time, but I thought you have enough time to sooth your soul. - Cunobarros whispered.

  Marcus Lucius understood the hint on the fly. His luck wasn't describable. As he stepped in the cottage, he saw Julia sat and her body trembled nervously. She bit her lips and her small fists were tensed on the wooden board. She didn't notice him at first. He smiled as charming as he felt. Within a wink of an eye, he was next to her. He kneed down and looked her in the eyes.

  -He said I have to give you time to talk about your military stuff. - She whispered and tried to maintain her composure. The tears already settled down in her eyes.

  -Don't cry. - He whispered. - I am here and I will come back to you. Stay with the locals. They won't hurt you...

  -I know... - She wasn't able to speak. She tried to fight against her weakness and emotions in her soul.

  -As long as you're with them, I can focus on the other issues. - He added and kissed her cheek.

  -I know... I'll stay there. Don't worry.

  He kissed her lips and his warm hands embraced her cheeks. Then, he got up. There was no time for them. He had to leave her and arrive in the camp.

  -I... - She wanted to say him that she loved him, but the words stayed trapped in her throat. She looked at him and tried to communicate with her eyes.

  -I know. - He said finally, bowed over her and kissed her forehead. - Everything will be fine.

  -Make them all remember you... - She added.

  There were millions further things to say, but there was no time. He couldn't declaim her a poem and he couldn't stay there to listen to her recitations. He wanted to freeze the time, but it was impossible. The last look, the last word, the last breath... The current moment was passing unavoidably away and belonged to the past already.

  Marcus Lucius didn't want to remind Julia about the promise to stay at Nerva's side whatever happens. He looked at her for the last time, left the cottage and mounted his horse.

  -Nerva, you stay with her. Cunobarros. We'll see us later.

  Nerva wanted to oppose, but Marcus Lucius's look was dominating and didn't condone a refusal or changes in the plan.

  -You stay with her. She needs a friendly face in the case... - He didn't want to speak aloud his thoughts. Additionally, Julia came to the cottage's door and listened to what he said. - You stay with her.

  After the last statement, Marcus Lucius turned back and rid away. Nerva was more than furious. He wanted to participate in the battle. His disappointment was visible for a moment. Then, he gathered himself and tried to keep his cool. It wasn't easy, but he was raising above his own inadequacy. He turned back to Julia, who was noticeably kind of having him on her side. He mounted the horse and lifted her. As she glued to his back, he felt a bit relieved that he was responsible for protecting her. Cunobarros was already sitting on his nut coloured horse and showed the direction. Nerva observed attentively where they were going to and which faces they met on the road in the rustle bushes and between swooshing trees. As Cunobarros led them to a village Nerva didn't know, Julia hugged him stronger. She was scared and confused. It was perceptible.

  -You stay here. - Cunobarros said slowly and tried hard to be understood by the Roman. Then, he showed Nerva a cottage. Nerva nodded shortly and it meant the complete acceptance of the conditions.

  Nerva wanted to unmount the horse, but Julia squirmed and whispered:

  -I want to see the battle...

  -It's too risky. We'll stay here. You heard what Marcus Lucius said. - He whispered and helped her to jump to the ground.

  Cunobarros smiled mysteriously.

  -I want to see the battle. I want to see that everything goes the way it should go. - Julia wasn't crying, she wasn't blubbering.

  Her voice kept the level of strength Nerva didn't know yet. Nerva refused and reminded her the promise she gave to Marcus Lucius. She was already hedging the plan and Nerva didn't like it. He brought her to a cottage, where already women and children of the villagers were gathered. The fireplace wasn't burning. The building shouldn't attract anyone's attention.

  Julia wondered why Cunobarros asked them to stay there. Nerva already understood the reason. Having Nerva there, in the dirty, cold place, was a kind of protection needed for his own people. Additionally, gathering people in a limited room cumulated warmth and calmness, if the people stayed calm. The theory related to dynamic of masses was strange to Nerva, but he knew from his own experience that it was possible to rule over the crowd, when you followed some simple principles. He sat down and pushed Julia gently to take place on his side. His sword was leant on the wall and it blade shined magically. Nerva's arm stayed near enough to the weapon to be able to use it immediately. On the other side, Julia sat. He gave her his cape quickly and she enveloped her body with it. Then, she moved closer to Nerva and laid her chest on his shoulder. In the meanwhile, Nerva counted approximately thirty women in different ages there. They pressed their children to their bodies and whispered some words that Nerva couldn't understand. The intonation betrayed the words of care and uplift. The wild women looked rather like a dark mass with white, insecure eyes and steam coming out from their mouths. They reminded Nerva about the slaves on his father's fields. His tension was percepted by Julia. She didn't comment it, but she wondered what was going on through Nerva's mind. Was he strained because of the fight? Was he taking under consideration a negative outcome?

  -How long will it take? - She whispered calmly. She didn't like to scare anyone and she knew that the local women and their children were observing her every gesture, they were listening to her voice and gazed at the Roman soldier, who was noticeably tensed.

  -I don't know. It depends from many aspects. Don't worry. - He answered and it didn't bring her serenity.

  She nudged his sleeve and forced him to look her in the eyes.

  -Tell me a story. Tell me anything from your missions.

  He
smiled sadly. It occurred inappropriate to tell anything that wasn't combined with the battle. The sun started to raise slowly, unhurriedly, lazily. The day began and the doubts and hopes stayed captured in the air. Uncertainty was killing everyone thought by thought. Julia glued stronger to Nerva's shoulder. She took his hand and was sure that she almost pulped it. He smiled, because her strong grasp was pleasant.

  The sudden noises of Roman catapults and the thousands of armoured people fighting echoed between the woods. It began surprisingly. The sky was filled with arrows and burning fireballs that unclouded the gloomy moments of the sunrise. Nerva moved minimally every time he listened the echo of the battle noises as if his reflex to get up was stronger than his order to stay. However, he forced himself to lean his back on the wall of the cottage and breathed deeply. His lips were pressed together. His eyes were squinted and he didn't look at anyone. He imagined what was going on. He already knew the surrounding. He was often on the meadow that has been chosen as the battle field. He knew that Marcus Lucius's power will stay on the side opposite to the hill on the horizon. The offenders should come through a small patch between the hills and the area full of snaky moors, near to a waterfall.

  Nerva was right. What he didn't know was the fact that Marcus Lucius's appearance in the camp was welcomed very enthusiastic. He came quickly and ordered to wake up everybody. As he waited for the soldiers to take positions according their groups, he talked shortly with Rufus. Rufus summarized what happened in the last days and remarks about Julia didn't include her silent, spooky behaviour. The report focussed on the condition of the legionnaires. Marcus Lucius nodded quickly and then, he kept silence for a moment. The entire camp was awake and looked at the man, who didn't wear his helmet for the very first time. The legionnaires recognized him immediately as the commander from the last weeks. Some even knew that he wasn't Maxentius, because he looked like a warrior they already had the honour to get to see once or twice. The soldiers kept their breath in their lungs and waited for his words. There were rumours that a battle was in sight and it made the training tempo understandable. However, many soldiers knew that they weren't good enough. They started regretting that they didn't get more time to learn the techniques from the man, who they respected. He was fast, precise, skilled. They wanted to be the way he was. They didn't want to die.

  Marcus Lucius didn't speak. As the commanders of the single troops came to him, he ordered to leave the camp. They, the commanders got a briefing about the battle plan. That was it. They left mumbling with themselves and said something about the big politics and the influence on the empire. They didn't feel good. The responsibility put on their shoulders was heavy and new. The lack of experience disarmed them. They weren't sure how to handle it.

  -We'll do it together. - Marcus Lucius said at the end and it was the only moment he used to uplift them. They smiled unnaturally, artificially. The sweat drops appeared on their foreheads and their hands were shaky. They weren't the heroes of the day.

  The uncertainty spread silently like an ideal gas composed of a set of randomly-moving, non-interacting point particles and filled the space. It was like Tuberculosis that typically spreads through the air when already actively infected people cough, sneeze, or otherwise transmit their saliva through the air. Marcus Lucius noticed that he couldn't leave his soldiers without any feedback.

  -Soldiers, brothers... - Marcus Lucius started and his voice sounded calming and trustful. - It's not the time for long speeches and I can't preach. What I can and what I've tried to teach you is needed today. I know you're ready for the final test. Don't think about our influence on the great politics of our empire. Stay focussed. Do your best. I don't require more. Today, I rely on you, my brothers, as you can rely on me. At the end of the day, we'll see us whether at the table as the new heroes of Rome or at the side of Dea Tacita, The Silent Goddess. A man I knew said once that what's meant to be will find a destined way. I say to you: let us do our best and we'll see where it brings us.

  The first sun rays occurred behind him and gave him the god-alike aura, as if the goddess of the dead would hug him personally, directly. The legionnaires calmed down. Marcus Lucius's words were repeated to the men from the outer ranks and with the more or less right quotations, the news spread that Marcus Lucius was the son of Maximus, the man who already collected victories in Britannia. The surprise was in the air, but it was encouraging. Feed with the thought that Marcus Lucius was going to be with them on the battle field, soldiers got uplifted and more confident. If the son of a great warrior was between them, then they weren't supposed to die that day. It was like having Achilles in your own ranks. They couldn't lose. They were unbeaten...

  As they appeared on the one side of the meadow, they noticed that the Barbarians were already waiting for them. The offender started yelling and pound with their pikes or swords in the shields they held. The noise got louder. However, Marcus Lucius's soldiers didn't react. They held their flags and streamers proudly. Their shields were well-grounded. Their muscles were warmed-up by the short march to the meadow. They hearts were filled with excitement. The majority of them hadn't participated in any fight yet. Some more experienced soldiers started repeating the words of their commander: Stay focussed. Stay focussed. Stay focussed. From these tiny little words, a stream occurred and it sounded like an anthem that should be sung in front of a battle. Instead, the two words ruled in the air and echoed between the woods. Stay focussed. Stay focussed. It calmed down, but didn't break the spirit of the fight. It gave the accurate amount of courage and didn't allow to prance. Stay focussed. The hands held the swords in the trained way. The legs were positioned to attack. The eyes were directed to the enemy. Stay focussed. Stay focussed...

  Wind pushed the clouds from one corner of the sky over the meadow to another. The clouds didn't like it and fought back with their only weapon. The rain started to fall on the ground and made wet everything on its way. The Barbarians wore warm, heavy pelts and they looked like sopping foxes or bears. Stay focussed. Stay focussed... As they started to be concentrated on the faces of the Barbarians, they were able to ignore the turmoil made on the other side of the meadow.

  The preliminary rehearsal belonged to the past. Then, the orchestra included a huge amount of troops and divided into two bands with own maestros started the play with first strings. The battle concert began. The tumult decreased as an ocean of arrows scuffed up in the air and effaced the sun on its early course to the zenith. The daemons Homados known as Battle-Noise, Alala known as War-Cry, Proioxis called also Onrush, Palioxis known as Backrush and Kydoimos also known as Confusion were ready to step into the field. They waited for the opening signal. They were already warmed up and experienced over centuries of battles. As the demons looked to the left and right, they noticed the immortally loyal companions of other deities and spirits such as Ares, Phobos, Deimos, the Keres, Polemos, Enyo, and their mother Eris. The forthcoming battle wasn't supposed to be the most important or even one of the most crucial fights in the human history, but for people gathered there, for their families and allies, it was essential. Every involved human being felt subcutaneously that the Moment of History arrived and was undecided in which direction it would go. The Fate looked at the warriors full of hope and motivation. They were in the middle of a story that they understood just to some extent. They waited for a signal. They were waiting impatiently as it all begun.

  The cue signal was overheard by the infantry. The footmen noticed the arrows that landed on the opposite side of the meadow and hurt the first Barbarians. They repaid in the same way. A cloud of arrows flew in the direction of Roman soldiers. It sounded like Russian jazz with Bolshevik trimmings. Extravagant, even less melodic parts occurred, when the arrows crossed the sky from one point to another, when the wounded screamed and the satisfied bowmen saw their results. Here and there, you could hear the yells of the wounded. A hand was bleeding. A leg got injured. A left ear got dabbed. Someone ordered not to start the attack yet. Someone asked wh
at to do. The majority stayed calm and observed how a horde on horses appeared from nowhere as the very first rank. You could easily recognize Marcus Lucius, who didn't wear his helmet. His horse was excited, but not madcap. Its breath caused little clouds coming out of its mouth. Its muscles shivered every now and then. Its ears listened to the sounds from the surrounding. Its legs were kicking his heels. Hiberus stood in a wet ground and ignored the fact that slowly, a puddle increased under his hooves. The rain was not strong, but consequent in its continuously falling. The rain drops flew down from the faces to the shoulders and feet. The sight wasn't optimal. Here and there, soldiers started squinting their eyes.

  The first fireballs appeared on the sky and enlighten the darkness of rainy clouds. Hiberus moved dynamically from his place. The rest of mounted soldiers left the first rank with a yell. Their scream wasn't understandable, but scary. The first part sparkled with underlined, fluently narrative piano and strings tunes. Then, bassoons and cellos joined the dialogue with the orchestra. The sequence of piano solo got interrupted by intense, rhythmic pulse and drive: the horse artillery moved forwards. The sound of battle music changed into substantial, heavily melodic gifts. The orchestral version became a mess. Some instruments were playing wrong notes due to the wounds the players collected. Fireballs reached the trees and human targets. The fire balls smashed into thousands of parts that glued to the people and elements of nature. The mud dashed the fire off, but even the wet clothes of Barbarians didn't predict them from suffering. Flash burn was painful. The skin was burning even through the rain that covered everything from above.

  A horse whinnied, slipped in the mud. A Barbarian arm was cut off. A hand with a sword was injured. The tumult of the artillery brought heavy tones filled with full-blooded, largely diatonic melodic invention. The powerful vein of melody was mixed with the sound in the background. Infantry that started moving forwards slowly, but irreversibly, kept whispering: Stay focussed. Stay focussed... Horses moved dynamically between the footmen. The riders cut off anything that was on the way of their swords. Disharmonic sound of blades that were meeting each other echoed and the battle sound was victimized by the iron elements. Inaccurate grid and scrapes got mixed into the main melody of the battle. Despite the small inconveniences sound as loud yelling of piccolo, a lot of cello and bassoon typical, different styles were captured in the licks and marches. In the course of the battle, further wrong notes were noticeable and teased the warriors. The annoying issues spread quickly as men fell down.

  Music drew its volatility. A lot of the music was there filled with lightness of single soldiers fighting dynamically. In terms of design, it stayed a pretty serious music, with a kind of dynamic, philharmonic piano solos and also drums and bass moments. Single disharmonic sounds were easy to follow. A pike reached a rider. A horse whinnied here. Another horse whinnied there. A rider felt to the ground and stood up to fight though the injured arm. Red spots appeared everywhere like in the untitled painting by Edward Dugmore from 1954. Poignant, lyrical and exalted tunes filled the composition as both sides had to absorb blows and cut wounds.

  Roman soldiers didn't lose their spirit to fight. Somewhere on the horizon or even just next to some of them, Marcus Lucius appeared. His moves were rapid, precise. He knew what was going on around him. He was covered in blood of others, of warriors he killed or injured. It took the breath away to stay next to him. As he felt off Hiberus, the horse ran away after he slapped it back. He smiled a bit. His wet presence didn't cause any compassion. His eyes foreboded intuitively support for his men and deadly, cruel blows to his enemy. A cerebral, synthetic vein of melody became louder as Marcus Lucius was in sight. Marcus Lucius looked to the Roman soldiers, but it wasn't the time to bring away the injured. Increasingly amount of morbid-sounding occurred. The rushed, chromatic tones of diversity and fluency of trumpet, bassoon and strings output appeared. In the last moments, everyone tried to give the best in the purest form showing the ultimately needs. More hands, arms, legs were cut off. Swords were jabbing the exposed human flesh. Pikes were going through the human body parts. Stream of blood flew increasingly.

  Exotic elements appeared as Cunobarros's men stepped in the battle to gore the leftover of the wild, not welcomed army. Cunobarros was brought in the field by Marcus Lucius's wink. Somewhat almost everyone got the note of it. On the wide, muddy meadow, the last duels took place. The Roman footmen together with Barbarian villagers killed the last of men from the North.

  Cataclysmic, irreversible finish was near, perceptible. The rain pined away. It changed into a drizzle. The wind decreased and let the clouds stay where they were. The end of the rainstorm was clearly visible when the grey clouds disappeared and the survivors could see the dark, but blue heaven and the rays there were no perfect words for describing the feeling of a survivor. As they kneed down after the battle and looked to the sky above, their tired, but victorious faces were full of relief. They looked around and saw the ocean of fallen warriors from both sides. They looked to their dead or wounded friends and recognized Aeneas, Cicero, Justus, Tiberius, Cato, Marius, Nero, Antonius... They saw Theon, Magnus, Octavius, Atticus...

 

  The Moment of History nodded emotionless as the thought occurred: “It is finished.” Pompeius, who kept positions allowing him to follow the development of the fight, smiled, because he knew the meaning of the victory. He ordered the medico to decide which wounded should be laid in the camp and which should be left with the dead ones. The wounded enemy should be killed or left to die in torment. It wasn't cruel compared to the fact that Celtic forces were known to decapitate Roman soldiers and to take their heads as trophies.

  The footmen should bring the wounded back to the camp, if they got the allowance of the medico. The dead Romans should be stripped of any and all items of use. Three days were needed to accomplish the action. Wading in the corpses of friends and known soldiers wasn't easy.

  -Mother nature would take care of the remains. - Pompeius said finally as he checked the work of the soldiers.

  Directly after the fight, Pompeius ordered a celebration. He wanted to give a moment of relax with wine and slots. Soldiers accepted it with a gratitude. After a whole day full of effort and tension, they needed anything that could distract the visions from the fight and after the battle was over. Looking at friends and hundreds of soldiers that got killed wasn't easy for anyone, especially, when the legionnaires hadn't much practice with such experiences.

  -Someone promised you to see you again whether at the table as the new heroes of Rome or at the side of Dea Tacita. I didn't forget it and I support it, because you served the empire well. Your commander said you to do your best and you did it. Let us celebrate the moment of victory. Let us celebrate then.

  Pompeius's short speech was welcomed with great enthusiasm. The only issue that muddled the soldiers' minds was the fact that they lost Marcus Lucius from their sight. At first, they assumed that he was sent to the battle field to be with the wounded. Their assumption was almost right. Marcus Lucius didn't leave the battle field. At first, he thanked his soldiers and sent them back to the camp. Then, he thanked Cunobarros and sent him back to the village, where Julia was hidden. He asked Cunobarros to report Nerva and Julia about the result of the battle. They should stay away from the camp, because Marcus Lucius wasn't sure what could happen next. As Cunobarros left, Marcus Lucius joined the medico and went through the ocean of bodies and corpses. Together, they looked after the wounded and separated the dead from the living ones.

  -I have to look at your wounds, too. - Medico said while they weren't interrupted by anyone. Pompeius's soldiers looked after arrows, spears and armour parts that could be repaired by blacksmiths and craftsmen in the camp.

  -I'm not wounded. - Marcus Lucius whispered emotionless.

  -You are and you know it. - The medico said. - What is your plan?

  -I don't have any plan. - Marcus Lucius said sadly.

  -I suggest I look at your chest when we come
back. You breath heavier than usually.

  -It's nothing, just a scratch.

  -Your father would lie the same way right now. - The medico seemed to be worried.

  Marcus Lucius didn't want to confirm that he didn't feel good. In the fever of the fight, he ignored the pain. After the battle, he was mostly worried about Julia. Until that day, his help was needed and it was the insurance for Julia and without it, everything seemed to be so complicated and indissoluble like the Gordian Knot related to a legend of Phrygian Gordium associated with Alexander the Great. Marcus Lucius had to thinking outside the box and it wasn't easy to raise above the situation to get a big picture solution. He hadn't any plan. The day was almost over and the darkness started to win the air.

  -I suggest you to find your woman and show her that you're alive. I'll stay here. It's late enough. Nobody will notice it. Come back quickly. - The medico whispered in conspiracy and was satisfied as Marcus Lucius seemed to be less tensed. Watching Marcus Lucius in a gloomy mood reminded him about Maximus's bad days. Marcus Lucius's lam in the desperation wasn't the aim that medico wished to support.

  Marcus Lucius sighed relieved.

  -I'll be back soon. - He whispered and whistled.

  His horse appeared quickly and it didn't take long as he left the field. He rid in the opposite direction to the cottage he visited shortly in the morning. Nobody was there. He cursed quietly. He was tensed and nerved, but he noticed that something moved near. He turned around and waited for the suspicious beings to step forward.

  -It's me. - He said.

  It was the key for Julia to show up. She ran to him from the bushes in the woods. Her bright, relieved smile was the reward enough for Marcus Lucius. He hugged her tight and spinned a couple of rounds as she ran into his arms. Although he was dynamically twirling, he noticed Nerva stepping forward. As Marcus Lucius stopped, he didn't like to put Julia down back on the ground, but he did it. It allowed him to shake hands with Nerva.

  -I've heard that you won. Not bad. - Nerva congratulated in his specific way. - We've waited here. Cunobarros said you wouldn't come, but I was sure, you won't resist.

  Marcus Lucius smiled, used the moment impatiently and hugged Julia even stronger. Then, he kissed her spontaneously. He breathed her scent and swung her a bit to the right and then to the left. Having her next to him was the best feeling in the world.

  -Pompeius borrowed me his cohort. - Marcus Lucius reported and smiled as he saw Nerva's surprised expression. - I wasn't sure what should it mean. You can't deal with it, either.

  -Not exactly. I can't judge Pompeius at all. He had already enough chances to kill you. He could act more brutally and still get what he wanted. Instead, he gives you his own cohort. Not bad...

  -Strange, not understandable, but real. I can't make out of him, either. - Marcus Lucius sounded less happy at once. Instead, reflection and worry appeared in his eyes. He didn't look at Julia, but directly to Nerva. Julia's eyes were occupied with checking his skin. He had bloody hands and

  -You should come with us. - Julia said. - You can runaway now.

  -I gave my word that I will come back and I'm bounded. - Marcus Lucius answered sadly.

  -So, I'll go with you. - She added.

  In the limited light of the evening, Julia's face didn't betray the entire range of her sorrow and longing. Marcus Lucius kissed her shortly, but passionately.

  -No. You stay here with Nerva. I don't have time. Stay with Cunobarros and wait until we'll get a plan. Give me time. I'll come back to you.

  Nerva saluted and took Julia's hand to push her away from Marcus Lucius. Her mute scream stayed in the space between them. Nerva pressed her with both hands to his chest and showed Marcus Lucius to leave the place. In the darkness of the late evening, his silhouette disappeared quickly. Within some minutes, he came back to the medico. The older man was relieved to see him and at the same time, a bit worried.

  -You had a good opportunity to leave this place forever. - He said.

  -Indeed... I gave my word.

  -You and your honour... Screw it. This bane is in your blood. When will you learn to survive?!

  Marcus Lucius didn't comment it. He believed in the upper values and he felt obligated to keep his word. He came to other thoughts as he looked to the dead ones under his feet. He recognized the soldiers he trained and it didn't feel good to look at their blood-smeared bodies, empty eyes and immovable corpses. Marcus Lucius bowed over every man and closed his eyes while he said “mortua heic ego sum et sum cinis, is cinis terrast: sein est terra dea, ego sum dea, mortua non sum” as a good-bye to every fallen warrior. Wishing a good return of the body to Mother Earth as the source of life and energy, as and nourishment, an anticipation of a final refuge in her at death. It sounded serious and sad as if he would say “Father, into your hands they committed their spirit”. He heard a lot of times that we are all equal in front of death. He wasn't convinced about it. Some were lucky and died with motivated, satisfied faces by one perfectly conducted by a representative of the opposite side. The other got wounded and were dying for a longer or shorter moment that could be individually percepted as painful, real eternity or that be filled with numb signals of the body. The mood was brimful of ache and moaning that interrupted the dead silence.

  The medico ignored Marcus Lucius's prayers and focussed on selecting the wounded. For him, it didn't play a role whether Marcus Lucius did it as a good man or rather a soldier who wished to be bowed out in respectful way independently from the reasons or circumstances of his death. Marcus Lucius was a dead man walking the way or another. The medico tried to keep the emotional distance to Marcus Lucius, even if it was already too late for such attempts. The old man was afraid of decaying the time after Marcus Lucius's death. If Rome was on the way to lose such people purposely, then it was the first step to the irreversible fall of Rome.

  Pompeius's soldiers came closer and communicated that the shift was over. Marcus Lucius and medico were supposed to come back to the camp. It was already dark and the legionnaires drunk already enough wine to be happy or totally depressed. The paid women with welcoming thighs and breasts took over the entertainment part. Marcus Lucius had the impression that the camp changed into one huge bawdyhouse.

  Pompeius noticed the arrival of Marcus Lucius and medico from the very first moment. He looked how the both accompanied the wagons with wounded men and waited until Marcus Lucius was close enough to have no chance to run away.

  -Welcome, the son of Maximus. - Pompeius started like an actor who says “To be or not to be” so loud that even the outer ranks get his words.

  The legionnaires looked curiously to Pompeius and stopped kissing and penetrating the doubtful ladies. Giggling girls were halted from making any kind of noise.

  -You are condemned for your purpose acting as Maxentius. - Pompeius announced and smiled jeeringly.

  Cornelius came to Pompeius and joined the enemy party. Cornelius nodded and applauded twice. He got scared and silent as he saw what the announcement caused. The legionnaires stood up one after another, massively like a rockfall initiated by one sentence. They left the paid women, they left the wine, and appeared next to Marcus Lucius suddenly. They took a protective position. They weren't intimidated by Pompeius's soldiers. In opposite, their anger increased even more.

  -Your soldiers are not amused. - Pompeius kept smiling and his eyes were squinted. He didn't move even a bit from his position. His guards surrounded him and protected from the angry mass. The second unit of non-drunken legionnaires of Pompeius encircled the wagons, but didn't dare to come closer to Marcus Lucius, who was armoured. They already saw his skills in the battle and they wanted to take him without any violence.

  Marcus Lucius, actually the targeted person, stayed free next to the wagons with wounded.

  -I promised you to come back and here I am. - He said calmly. - Let us dress the wounds and burry the dead ones. Then, you can do whatever you think is right. - He slapped the horse of the team and foll
owed the animal that pulled the wagon. Nobody interrupted him. He was tired and empty inside. Everything had no sense and he needed to rest. The crowd respected it. Eight of his legionnaires followed him keeping the distance needed for him to feel free. As he stepped in the tent, they took the guardian positions and didn't allow Pompeius's soldiers to get into the tent. Even if some of Marcus Lucius's legionnaires were a bit drunk and enjoyed the evening up to that moment, they felt internally obligated to protect their commander in need. The death penalty occurred everyone obviously and cruelly as too high to pay. Even Pompeius's soldiers were insecure and didn't like to interfere. They needed someone in a white cloak with blood-red lining, who would have the shuffling gait of a cavalryman, who wouldn't appear early in the morning of the fourteenth day of the spring month of Nisan, but who would come immediately to the camp, not to the palace of Herod the Great' the procurator of Judea. They needed someone above Pompeius.

  In the tent, the medico came to him, ordered to sit down and took off the armour. Marcus Lucius followed medico's words. First then, he noticed that he had a serious bruise below the collarbone. The medico assumed a broken rib and examined the bone structure under the skin. It was a painful procedure, because medico had to pressure on the violet and red part on Marcus Lucius's chest.

  -It's just a scratch. A horse came suddenly and I couldn't dodge. It skimmed me on the chest. - Marcus Lucius shook his head and smiled.

  The medico nodded and swatted him on the head like a teacher clips a pupil round the ear.

  -You are stupid and lucky. I don't know how long it will take until your fortune turns back to you. - The old man said.

  -You're right, nothing broken. You have to be more careful. A great commander shouldn't get killed in such a stupid way. Here, drink this. - He ordered and gave Marcus Lucius a jug with wine.

  Marcus Lucius hesitated, but the strict look of the old man was insisting. He drunk and with every swallow, he noticed how thirsty he was. His headache that stayed hidden during the entire day and even stayed locked during the evening jumped out of the corner of his body and took the baton on the relay. Medico checked whether Marcus Lucius drunk everything and then, he gave him the tunic back. Marcus Lucius dressed quickly and wanted to leave the tent.

  -I won't become a great commander. I will be executed soon. - Marcus Lucius said calmly, quietly and medico's hand stopped him from making any further step. The old man stood in front of the warrior, who had no long-term perspectives. At least, one further night could be given to a man, who actually could grip the soldiers.

  -You are already a good commander. You have friends. - The medico whispered and his head's movement showed to the guards at the tent's entrance. - Wait until your judgement will be confirmed. Lay down here and sleep. You didn't get rest for three days.

  Marcus Lucius was too tired to raise further questions. He sat down at the bed, used the moment and felt asleep. Medico went then from one wounded to another and checked was was possible to rescue the injured men. Pompeius sent three further medicos early that day. They were a bit younger and their clothes showed Balkan issues. It was highly probable that Pompeius brought them from his times spent in Moesia. They didn't look to Marcus Lucius and stayed focussed on other wounded Romans that were laid on pallets. The blood smell attacked the noses of conscious and blemished their face expressions awfully. Moaning mixed with heavy breaths of unconscious ones fulfilled the air. Crushed bones protruded from some bodies. Draining streams of blood flew directly to the ground. Fingers and smaller body parts trembled uncontrollably. Marcus Lucius laid calmly and his whisper run like wind through the space of the tent: “mortua heic ego sum et sum cinis, is cinis terrast: sein est terra dea, ego sum dea, mortua non sum”.

 

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