He was walking down the streets, gazing absent-mindedly the atmosphere present in the capital of the Italian peninsula. Lucius had followed north his former owner, Senator Marcus Aurelius, to the campaigns in Etruria and Picenum. Being there, his master sent him to Rome for settling his gens' affairs, and also commissioned him to bring news of how things were going in the Urbs.



City was overjoyed with latest news from etruscan front. Legions had brought under the Republic dominion much of that territory, the sign "SPQR" now fluttered over the cities of Clusium, Tarquinia, Cortona and Arretium, and even Veius had fallen after a long siege and an ingenious maneuver that took defenders for surprise. The campaign had been shorter than expected, and rumors said it could be widened further, perhaps until the coast of Tuscany, with its capital Populonia and its magnificent harbor.

Passing by the market optimism was tangible. Merchants already thought about new products, luxury items that would flow from the golden etruscan cities, benefits of trading with that enriched partners, new trade routes opened with the conquest; and also a huge number of slaves that soon would arrive from Picenum, captives of conquest wars. In the Forum, heading for his master's domus in Palatinus Mons, many senators and equites asked him for news about, or gave him scrolls and documents for Marcus. Even the Flamen Dialis Aemilius gave him a sealed letter for his friend. Being away from Rome appeared to increase the already large circle of friends of his master.



In the domus, administrator in charge of the family affairs was waiting for him; many work hours and many businesses to deal with before returning north...

News reached slowly the roman legions' camp at the foot of the wall of Arretium. Marcus Aurelius watched from the doorway of his tent the soldiers comings and goings, busy at their daily tasks under a rain that hadn't stopped pouring down since last week, transforming near river banks in a swamp and forcing the army to exercise under cover inside the city.

Campaign in Florenz was shorter than expected. Etruscan armies were formidable foes due to their experience and tenacity, as well as their excellent weapons fruit of Elba's island iron. Nonetheless, northern gauls raids on the province eased a quick understanding between tuscan leaders and the Republic, and after some skirmishes and a major clash near Veius, an alliance agreement and a submission pact was reached. Although crowned with success, operations were interrupted during the celebration of consular elections in Rome, where new conquests, as Lucius pointed at the scroll in his hand, had spread a festive and breezy atmosphere.

Meanwhile, as ceremonies around the Consules took place in the Urbs, army commanders in the North hadn't been idle. Last days were spent in meetings with local rulers, now needed to get along with the new governors, Artorius Castus and Decimus Atrapes.

In addition, was necessary to thank the gods for their favor. Marcus Aurelius himself went to the Temple of Tinia, roman Juppiter, to make an offering; and was overwhelmed by the richness of which were deposited there. Highlighted among the other gifts was a bronze sculpture of Chimera, whose terrible expression and delicate work couldn't leave the viewer indifferent.




Certainly these people had reached a higher level in metal works!!

With this idea and Chimera's picture in mind, and recalling Bellerophon's feats in Lycia, Marcus Aurelius enrobed a cloak over his shoulders and walked in the rain. It was time for a new meeting at the Praetorium. News might have arrived from Rome and campaign could be launched again soon...

All was activity and bustle in the great port. Abandoned earlier by the mists of the Mediterranean, now ships from all over the world were heading the entrance to dock at the busy wharves of Populonia, while others cast off to take their cargoes of iron, oil, wine, weapons and silverworks to the great cities of Oikoumene.



Marcus Aurelius walked leisurely pace through the stalls filling the streets accompanied by a small escort. His inquiring eyes scanned faces, glances, gestures, listening in his wake remains of conversations, disjointed phrases, cries of sellers... Senator tried to discover feelings of all those people about the roman presence. Events had rushed in recent weeks. After the occupation of Toscana, incidents were rare. Garrisons had been extremely well received everywhere, and local governments had even offered to supply them and provide work force to build winter quarters.

While legions turned back to camp inside, next to Arretium, Marcus had gone to visit Populonia. The gens Aurelia had important interests and contacts in Toscana, and hoped to obtain information he sought from them. Meeting was long, his friends had much to tell and the governor listened carefully. When finished, Marcus Aurelius decided to go for a walk and clear his mind...

- Watch out!!

Marcus came out of his reverie; one of his bodyguards' hand grabbed his shoulder and a few steps in front of him mediterranean waves were breaking on sandy beach. He looked gratefully the soldier who, after greeting respectfully, went a few steps back. Marcus Aurelius gazed at the horizon, it was getting dark. In the morning he'll turn back to Arretium, spring was ending and there was still much to do...

The ship slowly went up the course of the Tiber. Long had been the night on Latium coast, anchored waiting for the tide to take the great river estuary and restart the way to the Urbs.

Senator had barely slept, his thoughts returned again and again to the recent events during his stay in Corsica, going with the legions to start the difficult conquest of the island. Although it had not been an easy decision, Marcus Aurelius was sure he had been right to leave active duty and return to the capital.

Shortly before his arrival in Italian peninsula, many messengers of the various clients of the gens Aurelia had come to meet him and inform of the malaise in the Senate, in the city and throughout the Republic. There were many voices raising up everywhere and discussing about the promotion of the "Empress" Ildico to the throne, on the sharp discussions in the Senate and harsh invectives launched by various senate members, Marcus Aurelius himself among them, against the new age. In whole Italy governors and nobles had been puzzled by the sudden change of regime, outside constitutional order of the Republic and the will of the roman people. Meanwhile across the sea, Ildico continued military campaigns to silence critics, threatening his opponents with exile or transfer for distant posts in Rome's service.



Now, in view of the wharf at Capitolium foot, Marcus Aurelius left his cabin and gazed at the shore. In the darkness, he thought recognize friendly faces of ex-general Aelius Maximus Decimus and governor Ralen. They too had turned back from campaign, and recent news indicate many others were on their way through Tyrrhenian Sea.

Without doubt were bitter times when roman legionnaires had to change the battlefield for the Forum marbles...

Marcus Aurelius woke up in confusion and noise, alerted by the screams of his family and servants. Lucius's hand rested on his shoulder and shook him violently. His face showed the urgency of the situation.



Senator got out of the bed quickly, putting on his armor and taking his weapons, while he was heading the door. However, as he crossed the tablinium, a mob of soldiers stood in his way outside. Their leader, a sour-faced centurion, gestured his optio. The man, understanding the sign, advanced sword in hand to the domus owner...

Duel was short, a feint and the optio fell to the ground, wounded by Marcus Aurelius' spear. Two legionaries dragged the officer outside while he covered his stomach with his hands. Centurion himself thought twice before acting again. Lowering his gladius, he approached the senator holding him a piece of parchment.

Marcus Aurelius took it and read swiftly. Later, he raised his eyes to the soldiers. All were young, little seasoned in combat, he could probably kill them easy, but... Nevertheless, it didn't matter. No more bloodshed was necessary. "Empress" Ildico would have no problem to use and dispense every men needed to fulfill her orders and get rid of her opponents.

He confronted the centurion, who took a step bak, and ordered him to withdraw his men and wait at the doors of the villa. Soon after, escorted by men of his gens, Marcus Aurelius crossed the doors, heading for the enclosure in Rome. He wasn't nervous, there was still much to do...

Next morning Marcus Aemilius entered the Roman Senate Curia. Flamen Dialis' face showed a fierce anger and his eyes seem to pierce anyone who stood in his way. Taking the middle of the Hall raised his hand and silence filled the air. The eyes of the few senators who still sat on those benches since regime change watched him with fear.

QUOTE:

You all know who I am... I'm Marcus Aemilius, Flamen Dialis of Rome, High Priest of Jupiter Optimus Maximus and head of the gens Aemilia. For centuries, my predecessors have respected the privileges of this institution, they have stayed away from political issues and have allowed Senate to decide about the future of Rome. However, now you force me to break that tradition.



Here I've got a letter, a statement that surely many didn't expect to exist, but it's in my hands. Senator Marcus Aurelius gave it to me shortly after his return from Korsika, and before being exiled from Rome by order of our "Empress" Ildico. He asked me to let the people know these words if something happened him.

QUOTE:

Cruel fate has befallen our city. In recent days, the ambition of a woman has outraged all that was decent and good in the Republic. His desire for power has made her reach to the top and was allow her to phase out her opponents.

Firstly, our General and Praetorian had to move away from Rome, later many senators left our military and were exiled beyond our borders. Today my own words come to you from some unknown place, where I am guarded, victim of the interest of this magnanimous leader, who in behalf of the glory of Rome ruins her people and her traditions, imposing her will as law and exiling all those who dare to speak out against their wishes.

For a long time we've tried to make Roman People understand that was his duty, not only the Senate's, to fight against tyranny. Many have joined our ranks, but many others keep silence, allowing injustice to expand over our territory.

Today, I am myself a victim of such injustice, only for ignoring the wishes of an Empress who, without respecting the laws of the Republic, took the throne by intrigue and kept it by the same methods.

I pray to the gods that Fortune turns, that Fate allows Romans to retake its place in the World, that this cumulus of misfortunes do not transgress our borders, that Rome doesn't change in Egypt, origin of many of the plagues that today affect us, and that Iustitia prevails again, and reigns again over the Capitolium.

Marcus Aemilius closed the scroll and headed the door. Under the arch turned and said:

QUOTE:
It's all done. Only those who still are true romans can change the things, change the World, change their leadership and watch again the future with hope

The sunset was bright and red above the immortal city of Rome. As the beautiful, golden rays spread through the groups of dark, violet clouds, some strange silence had fallen over the land. The markets were silent, the streets, usually full of people, now looked hollow and sad, abandoned...

It all came with the striking news that arose from the west. Just a few months ago, the city trembled of excitement about the upcoming Corsica campaign. Legions were mustered; proud praefectuses, decuriones, and centurions, were shouting orders given by the Military Tribunes; Qauestors were finishing up last touches considering logistics, silver issues and many other stuff... Strong, midday sun shone brightly upon the glanced steel of many helmets, armors, swords, shields, spears... amongst all, red color of capes, and plumes and shield coverings spoke of victory, of optimism, of bravery. It was the famous Legio XIII Victrix, consisted of strong, battle hardened veterans, that fought in many wars against the Barbarians.

And on the top of the army, side by side with other Senators that took participation in the campaign, there stood Aelius Decimus Maximus, Leader of the Legion and proud General and Praetorian of Rome. He was so proud; his heart sang when he looked upon his men. He knew many of them by names, as they fought together in many a battle; they were all smiling and joking, and saying goodbyes to their loved ones. But there was no sadness in their eyes - only optimism and thrill of the upcoming battle. By the time the sun sat over Seven Hills of Rome, they were all in the triremes and transport ships, waiting for the evening tide to come and take them away.



That last glance was still in Maximus's mind when he looked upon the familiar wharf and shores he loved so much; there was no other harbor more close to his heart than that of Rome's... But now, things were different.


There was no one to wait for him and his men on the stones of the dock, not a living soul; only silent sunset greeted him. As the ship drew closer to the shore, Maximus sent his loyal steward Cicero to get their stuff from the cabins.

"Good old Cicero" - he thought, while covering himself in a black cape and hood. Cicero was the only one of his men that left the Legio XIII Victrix when he heard that Maximus was thrown out by the Usurper. They traveled together for many miles, eluding Ildico's agents, always heading towards home.

Maximus was hard pressed by thoughts of the upcoming fights on the Senate Floor. He knew that it wont be an easy battle. But, that was all before he found out that he was not alone.

No, indeed, he was not alone. There were others that resisted Ildico's attempts to buy them with titles and pleasures; Maximus only hoped that when that failed, they were able to evade the assassins the Usurper had sent to dispatch them. He prayed to the Gods for his friends, he prayed for their safe journey to Rome.

As the nightfall slowly drew near, the bireme anchored, and Cicero and him stepped on the stone dock. Not long after, Maximus smiled - Senator Ralen was there to meet him. They greeted each other and hugged. They agreed to wait upon Senator Marcus Aurelius, who, as Ralen said, was set to get to Rome on the same night. Two men entered a nearby tavern, disguised, and sat with their servants, waiting for the arrival of their friend.

It was a dark and cloudy afternoon, the sea was restless. I am finally back with my brothers in Sicily. I know their faces well, for we fought countless battles against many enemies.
We're gathered around the fireplace, silent, waiting, knowing full well what hardship lies ahead. Each sword, armor and shield, in perfect condition. They glow even now, under this dimmed light.

General has a confident smile on his face as he polishes his axe. I see no fear in his eyes. He gives us all great hope and courage. Each passing hour bring us closer to what we must do, what we swore to do, what we will do!

In these dark times, I find myself starring at the sky.
Mars, i rarely have prayed to you. I have no tongue....But I ask that you grant me one request, grant me REVENGE!

Egil sat by one of the fires, tending to his spear and armor. He saw Marcus walking by and nodded silently to the impressive warrior. All the other men and women in the sprawling army camp were also quiet and determined, all filled with awe at what they were about to embark on.

Egil sat back against a small tree, his gaze followed the sparks from the fire, up to the heavens. His mind wandered back to his childhood as the son of a slave, his father being a captive from one of Rome's wars. His childhood in the household of Elendil the Tall in Naples had been a happy one. One day, barely a man, he saved his master's life during a boar hunt and was made a free man and a citizen of Rome. His former master made him magistrate of the small village of Puteoli, on the Bay of Naples, and he tended to the village with all his skill. As a roman citizen, he could make his wealth grow but also join the Legio Victrix in the north and serve "his" republic in that way. What a marvellous feeling that was! To be part of a republic of equals, every man a voice and a vote!

He sighed, putting down his spear, wrapping himself in his blanket.

He had not been perfectly happy with the government as it was. It had been a little too quiet, remote and hesitant for his taste. Ildico had impressed him with her knowledge and drive and he had looked forward to voting for her for consul.

Then, the betrayal.

Ildico had mistaken the rulers of Rome with the Dream of Rome. No true roman, and certainly not a former slave - now free man and citizen, would follow a ruler. All true romans followed the dream of the republic, where every man was an equal and had the freedom to involve himself with the ruling of the repubblic, if he was not happy with the current policies.

She would learn. And pay.

He walked to me with a determined look, each year of war was cut on his face alike stone carvings.
He said: " Marcus, my brother. We've been at war,... since before we even remember. I have led our armies countless times to victory, you were with me each time. I shall trust you give us back our republic, for I shall not lead any army that has no Eagle upon its banner. Make me proud, brother".

A tear has swept down my cheek. I couldn't believe my ears. For him to grant me such honour, as to lead these fine men into war.... Such glory I have never dreamed of.

To him I said: "You give me great honour, with these battle hardened Romans on my side, how can I fail?"..

...We laughed as waves struck port side and soaked us wet. We're on the way home, to our fatherland, to Rome!

Tyrant, shivering in fear,
as we come near,
wont be saved by any tear,
spike shall go trough your rear!