The Antonine Romans and Deva: Roman Chester Awaits!

The Antonine Romans and Deva: Roman Chester Awaits!

Description:

Tribune Lacitus has received new orders to travel to Deva (Roman Chester). His mission is to save Deva from falling, with an attack from the local tribe imminent. Can Tribune Lacitus and his brother Centurion Antallius, survive and succeed? The seventh Novella. All of the Novellas standalone.

Chapter 1.
Tribune Lacitus stood at the prow of the ship with his brother Centurion Antallius.
"You are going to love Deva, Antallius! It is such a nice, clean, well-ordered place. Once rumoured to have nearly become the capital of this rain-soaked place."
Antallius looked at his brother, uneasy with their latest deployment. "I miss Balmuildy Fort. I hope Optio Scrivinus is coping."
"Scrivo?" Lacitus laughed. "He'll be having a great time! To start with, he won't have you or me to bother him!" Lacitus looked into the distance as the first signs of Deva neared. "I can see him now - walking around the Granary, then inspecting the bread. Old habits die hard, you know! He'll soon be retired back to the Bakery near Rome he is always telling us about."
"I know." Antallius tried not to sigh. "Even so, it's a pity we've ended up here."
"Well, an Order is an Order. And as I say, you are going to love it here!"
As the ship travelled along, Antallius looked back towards the group of six they had brought with them, partly as bodyguards for the journey, but mainly as soldiers that Antallius knew could slot into senior positions easily.
Antallius nodded towards the group and they acknowledged likewise, including Legionary Castus, who had served in Deva before, in charge of the Fortress East Gate.
Bringing Castus would outwardly have seemed like a sensible choice, however Tribune Lacitus and Centurion Antallius were not aware of Castus's propensity for secret assignations and secret letters, for money.
Even worse, the two Senior Officers were completely unaware that the facemasked attacker that had tried to kill Antallius, had been Castus - promised a wealthy, new life if he had succeeded in his task.
Castus nodded back to Antallius. In his mind, Castus cursed himself that his assassination attempt had failed. He imagined himself where he should now be - in one of the prosperous properties in Rome, under the guise of a successful trader. Oh what should have been, thought Castus. Oh to get another chance for wealth again, there is always that hope.
Turning back, Antallius looked at his brother and was surprised to see his frown of wrinkled eyebrows and twisted mouth.
"What is it, Lacitus?"
"The Port was never like this when I was here. Look at those big piles of rubbish!" Lacitus pointed. "There! And there! And over there! What a mess!"
Antallius tried to calm his brother. "Well, maybe it's just because it's a busy, working Port."
"Nevertheless, that's something that will need to be fixed! There is nothing more important than a good first impression! Remember that, Antallius, when you go for your next promotion."
"I thought that with your connections with Simitus, all our lives had now been mapped out for the better?"
"His connections will get our foot in the door, yes, but we've had to fight for everything up to now and I don't think that's going to change anytime soon. For a start, it didn't get us out of this latest appointment! We may never get back to Rome! At least your son is now being probably schooled, so that's a start."
Lacitus frowned again as another pile of rubbish came into view.
"Looks like the Port needs a lot of work! It gets worse the nearer we get! I can't believe it has got into this state. I'll be having words with who is in temporary command here!"
"And who is that?" asked Antallius.
"Someone called Marcus."
"Never heard of him."
"No neither of I. But he is going to remember my name, that's for sure!"
Antallius shuddered. Even he, despite being his brother, had been on the receiving end of Lacitus's disapproval and it was not a pleasant experience.
Behind them, Castus raised his eyebrows, surprised at the mess of the Port. He nudged one of the other men. "This place has gone downhill! It was never like this when I was here. I'd like to be a fly on the wall when The Tribune speaks to whoever is in charge of The Fortress!" The men started to laugh, which became raucous.
Tribune Lacitus turned swiftly in annoyance. "Quiet lads! I can't hear myself think up here!" The sharp tongue was enough to stop the laughing immediately, as Antallius knew it would.
As the ship docked, Tribune Lacitus prepared himself, always careful to make the correct first impression. Turning to his group of men, he shouted his command. "Form Up!"
Antallius looked at his brother. He certainly did have quite a presence. As the gangplank went down, there was no question who would be first off, as Tribune Lacitus stormed off!
"Here we go again!" thought Lacitus quietly to himself. "Here we go again!"

Chapter 2.
"Before I have words with Centurion Marcus about the state of the Port, I want to make an offering at the Amphitheatre. It is not far."
"Won't Centurion Marcus be waiting for you?" asked Antallius.
"No. As far as he knows, I am not expected until next week. I find that if I turn up unexpected, I get to see the true state of the place!"
"Sneaky, brother! Sneaky!"
"I know, but you don't get to be a Tribune without it!"
The small group of eight walked smartly away from the Port, Tribune Lacitus setting a fast pace that even the fittest of Legionary would be satisfied with.
Before long the Amphitheatre was in sight and Lacitus's mouth opened in shock at what he saw. Once more big heaps of rubbish were deposited outside the entrance. Walking inside, the same scene awaited. All around the Amphitheatre's ground, large piles of rubbish lay. Lacitus looked up to the stands, litter swirling around in circles in the wind.
Lacitus clenched his fists, angry at the mess. The rest of the group stood silent, not daring to move or speak. They had seen the wrath of Tribune Lacitus before and were fearful of seeing it again, even his brother.
Lacitus moved off and walked up the stone steps where some of the Senior Officers would sit. His foot stood on a sharp, small stone. Looking down, he saw that it was not a stone after all, but was in fact a small, bronze gladiator souvenir. Bending down he picked up the statuette and stared at its face, before carefully putting the figure inside his tunic and making his way back down the steps.
The group stood at attention as Lacitus walked by. "At Ease, lads. I'll go and make the Offering."
Lacitus made his way to the Altar. The Altar was dedicated to Nemisis, the Goddess of Retribution. Lacitus stood with his eyes closed and his arms outstretched. The Offering that Lacitus made was his silent prayer - "Nemisis, I will restore this place to be worthy of your presence." Although Lacitus was genuine in his Offering, it crossed his mind that his usual prayers were Christian, a secret that he kept for the privacy of his Quarters.
Lacitus remained at the Altar, his eyes still closed and his arms outstretched. He thought of the time when he tried to kill a General in the crowd of the Corinium Amphitheatre. This was the task given to him by Simitus of the Mithraeum Religion, in return for paying off his father's debts.
His thoughts then turned to the Trimontium Amphitheatre in Caledonia. In return for a noble Gladiatorial Contest against a Competitor seen as a threat to The Empire, Lacitus had battled in return, for the future success of himself and his family, by Simitus's all reaching influence.
With arms outstretched, Lacitus's shoulder began to hurt painfully once more, with sharp jolts across his body, a timely reminder of the blows he had deflected in the ring.
Lacitus put his arms down and opened his eyes, a bead of sweat trickling down his forehead and down his cheek. Making his way back to the group, an emboldened determination was in his mind.
"Men! It is time to go. I have a meeting with Centurion Marcus. He doesn't know this yet, but I assure you, he soon will!"
The men set off close behind Tribune Lacitus and with a glance to his brother, Antallius knew indeed that Centurion Marcus was about to endure the worst meeting of his life.

Chapter 3.
The group approached The East Gate of The Fortress, past the shops that had further developed since Lacitus had last been here. Lacitus was horrified that there was no Roman Soldier ready to challenge their presence.
Stepping through the Gate, Tribune Lacitus quietly watched a Roman Soldier negotiating with a Trader.
The Trader held his pot as the Roman Soldier scratched his chin. "You must agree that this is fine Samian examples. Surely the price I ask is reasonable?"
"I'm not sure. Let's see the other side." The Roman Soldier began to point to the area of the bowl he wanted to look at, when he became aware of Tribune Lacitus's presence.
"Soldier! What is the first rule of guarding a Gate?"
"Not to leave the position unattended!"
"Exactly! I will have a new Soldier in your place by this afternoon! Someone that does not discuss tableware whilst on duty!"
"Yes, Sir!"
"What is your name, Soldier?"
"Legionary Barris, Sir!"
"I am Tribune Lacitus! Consider yourself lucky that I will not take this matter any further!"
"Thank you, Sir! You were not expected until next week, Sir!"
"So I see! I have not arrived soon enough! I am shocked at the state of Deva! What kind of sloppy practices are happening here? I could have been the enemy wandering through this Gate! Do you want the Fortress to be taken?"
"No, Sir!"
"Take me to Centurion Marcus at once!"
"Yes, Sir! Legionary Mattis, guard the Gate!
"Better, Legionary Barris! Better!"
Antallius quietly nudged Castus. "He got off lightly there. He's lucky not to have had a right good kicking up his .." Before Antallius could finish his sentence, Lacitus called out. "Centurion Antallius! Get beside me! Men, Form up behind!" Tribune Lacitus does not miss anything, with ears that could hear a whisper from a far distance and so his timely interruption was not by chance.
Antallius reminded himself that he must behave more like a Centurion and at once his thoughts returned to Balmuildy Fort on The Antonine Wall, where he would return after this posting was complete.
Striding along, Lacitus discretely looked around him. Just like at the Port, every so often big piles of rubbish would appear. Part of the Stores had also become derelict, replaced by helps of rubbish, wood and stone.
The fine Elliptical Building then came into view. Once more a pile of rubbish was nearby and even this building did not appear as well kept as he remembered.
Lacitus remembered that not so long ago Deva had been rumoured to become this country's Capital, with a great Port suitable for The Fleet and the possibility of invading nearby Hibernia.
The special Elliptical Building at that time was fine enough to belong to this country's Governor. Lacitus remembered with fondness the high ceilings of the twelve rooms within, along with the internal courtyard and its own baths. What had happened to cause this decline?
As they walked along, the small bronze gladiator statuette slipped from Lacitus's tunic and was promptly stepped on by the men behind, buried deep into the thick layer of mud and dirt. It was not long before Lacitus and Antallius were being shown into The Headquarters by Legionary Barris. The Soldier knocked on the internal door of Centurion Marcus, who announced a relaxed "Come!"
Legionary Barris went in, closing the door behind him. Within moments, a loud scraping of a chair, with Centurion Marcus receiving the alarming news of his visitors outside the door. Legionary Barris reappeared and showed Lacitus and Antallius inside.
Centurion Marcus stood to attention. Nervously, Centurion Marcus prepared to speak. "Tribune Lacitus, Sir! Welcome! You were not expected to arrive until next week, Sir!"
"I've already had this conversation with Legionary Barris, after he had finished discussing tableware with a Trader 'inside' the Fort!"
Centurion Marcus gulped.
"I have told Legionary Barris that he has been relieved of his duty as Guard of The East Gate, punishment enough. One of my Legionaries that accompanied us here, Legionary Castus, will take over his duties from this afternoon.
"Yes, Sir!"
Tribune Lacitus sat down, beckoning Centurion Marcus to do the same. Centurion Antallius took this cue to sit down also, grateful for a seat after the journey.
Legionary Barris knocked the door and came in carrying a tray of glasses and a jug containing warm wine. The jug clashed repeatedly against one of the glasses, betraying the shaking hands.
Tribune Lacitus smiled at Barris. "Thank you, Legionary Barris. I will pour. I have decided that you can assist the new Guard of the East Gate. He came with me this morning - Legionary Castus. He used to hold that position when he was stationed here before. That will be all for now, Legionary Barris."
"Yes, Sir! Thank you, Sir!"
After Legionary Barris had closed the door, Lacitus leaned forward and poured the three glasses of wine.
Antallius took the wine glass from Lacitus. He knew that his brother was a shrewd judge of character and that he wouldn't have reached the level of Tribune if this wasn't the case. He somehow knew which approach to take with each person. For some people this may be shouting and screaming but for others a more gentle approach was required to obtain the necessary information, such as the glass of wine that Centurion Marcus took from The Tribune's hand.
"Centurion Marcus - What is going on here? At the Port, there are large piles of rubbish. The same at the Amphitheatre. Even within the Fort, there are large piles of waste and some of the buildings have become derelict. The Elliptical Building was going to be one of the finest in this country."
"Yes, Sir! I must apologise. I have done the best I could but it is not good enough. Much of the Twentieth Legion is up North, either at The Antonine Wall or Hadrian's Wall. I am usually the Senior Clerk. I don't know much about being a Centurion."
Tribune Lacitus and Centurion Antallius began to look at the situation in a different way. Instead of neglect and incompetence, they saw a man that had been thrust into a position which was severely under-resourced.
"Take some of your wine, Marcus." Within a matter of moments Tribune Lacitus had got to the route of the problem and his brother admired how his skill.
Tribune Lacitus took a document from his Tunic. "I can see that you have done the best you can in very difficult circumstances. This document from our Emperor Antoninus Pius puts me in overall command with immediate effect, with Centurion Antallius taking over the day to day running of the Fort. I am satisfied for you to continue in your previous role of Senior Clerk."
"Thank you, Sir!"
"We will discuss the exact details of the Fort's current position and present capabilities in due course. Then we will work out a plan to get this Fort back up to a more secure footing "
"Are the rumours true then, Sir?"
Tribune Lacitus and Centurion Antallius looked at each other. "What rumours are they?" Tribune Lacitus asked, fearing that there may be more to this situation.
"That the Fort is going to be attacked."
Tribune Lacitus took the information in as calmly as possible. "Quite possibly, Marcus. Quite possibly - which is why we all have much work to do."
In truth, this was the first that Tribune Lacitus knew about any possible attack and after his previous successes elsewhere, he realised why such a posting had been made. He only hoped that he had enough time, skill and resources to turn this situation around, otherwise the unthinkable may happen - the fall of Roman Deva.

Chapter 4.
Centurion Jose tried to stifle a yawn. It had been a quiet evening in his Tavern in Londinium. Not too many customers and not too much drinking. No fights or potential fights requiring his intervention.
His thoughts turned to the Roman Army. Somehow he had found himself re-enlisting, persuaded by his former comrade, Tribune Lacitus. This was his last night before travelling back North to The Antonine Wall.
He looked to one of the tables. There, another comrade, the brave Centurion Aglastus, sat finishing one more drink. Soon they would close up and make final preparations for their journey back North tomorrow. Both had fought at Burnswark Hill, presented with golden decorations for their courage and they would wear them with pride as they entered their respective destinations - Balmuildy Fort for Centurion Jose and Barr Hill Fort for Centurion Aglastus.
Centurion Jose looked to another table in the corner where two guests had sat quietly. Looking around, Jose realised that they were the last customers remaining. It had been Aglastus that had served them and Jose had been trying to remember where he had seen their faces before.
Jose walked over to the table. "Hello there, that's us closing now. Drink up, have a good night "
The man looked up. "I don't think you recognise us, do you?"
"I've seen you both before, but I can't quite picture you."
"I am Simitus and this is my Assistant, Andreah."
Jose felt suddenly felt afraid and Aglastus had walked over to the table to see what was going on. Lacitus had told Jose all about Simitus and Andreah - followers of the Mithraeum Religion, who had the well-being of The Roman Empire at their heart. Lacitus had explained to Jose that somehow Simitus and Andreah had direct contact with The Emperor.
"Could you pass me the documents please, Andreah?"
"Certainly, Simitus." Andreah smiled. Jose reflected that Lacitus had told him that Andreah was a striking, intelligent lady who assisted Simitus in his work.
Simitus looked at Aglastus. "This concerns you too, Aglastus."
Aglastus was shocked that this man, unknown to him, addressed him by his name.
Simitus handed each of the men a document. "These are your new postings."
"I don't understand. We are on leave, returning to The Antonine Wall from tomorrow."
Simitus smiled. "As you can see, both of these documents are signed by our Emperor - Antoninus Pius. Deva Fort is in severe danger of being attacked and falling. Already Tribune Lacitus has been sent there to begin the improvement of its defences. Both of you have been selected to go to Deva, too."
Andreah stood up. "If you give me your keys, I'll lock up. Sit down. Simitus will begin to tell you all we know of what is happening in that area."
Stunned at how this evening was turning out, Jose and Aglastus sat down, as Andreah took the keys. Simitus put both his palms on the table and addressed them both. "Gentlemen, all the information we are going to tell you, must be conveyed to Tribune Lacitus on your arrival. We have gathered as much as possible from our sources to help you."
Simitus paused, as if trying to emphasise the seriousness of the situation. "The key point is this - without Lacitus, yourselves and all the men you can muster, Deva will fall."
Jose and Aglastus looked at each other. Aglastus was too stunned to speak and it was Jose that broke the silence. "Andreah? After you have locked up, please pour all of us a drink. It looks like it is going to be a long night."

Chapter 5.
Lacitus wiped his face with a cloth. It had been a long first week at Deva Fort. He looked forward to moments like this in the Bathhouse with his brother at the end of the day, a time to relax, review and plan.
Putting Deva back into some form of order was not an easy task. He had begun with the derelict areas of some of the Stores buildings.Then the clearing up of some parts of the Barracks blocks that had become overrun with dirt and soil.
One of the benefits of this was to watch how the men performed this task within the Fort and he saw first hand the lack of leadership and fitness.
Next, teams of men were sent to the Port and the Amphitheatre. Lacitus watched the weary men return each evening and as the week progressed, he saw their fitness and their morale improve. They were beginning to look like proper Soldiers again.
This had greatly been improved with the surprise arrival of Centurion Jose and Centurion Aglastus, whose authority had an immediate impact on the men. Instead of trudging around, the men were now smartly marching, even at the end of a gruelling day of clearing and tidying.
Antallius turned to his brother. "I never expected to see Jose and Aglastus turning up. That was quite a surprise. Do you think what they said is true?"
Lacitus sat back, taking in the heat of the baths. "I think it is. Simitus and Andreah would not have intervened otherwise. It looks as if it is up to us all not to let Deva fall."
Lacitus took a small jug of the soothing oils and poured it on to his arm. "Now that Deva and the men are getting back into some form of shape, I have thought out the next stages to prepare ourselves for being attacked."
"Go on."
"The fitness and skill of our men is paramount. I am trusting that you, Jose and Aglastus will attend to this in the various routines and practice. But even that is not enough. With a small group of men, I am going to embark on a mission traveling by River."
"For what?" Sometimes it was like getting blood out of a stone of Lacitus to part with any information.
"I am going to Holt, where the bricks and tiles are made. I'll get them to fire up the kilns so that we can get any gaps in our walls and buildings sorted."
"Anywhere else?" Antallius wanted the full story.
"We need more weapons. They will need to be made. There are lead mines all around, such as at Halkyn, Meliden and Frith. So I will travel to Pentre-Oakenholt, Pentre Ffwrndan and Prestatyn, to get all the smelting and blacksmiths going."
"How do you know all this?"
"Largely from what Jose and Aglastus told me. It appears that Simitus and Andreah told them as much as possible about the area and about the possible attack."
"I see."
The names of the areas has meanings to the locals. For example the smelting settlement Pentre Ffwrndan means 'Village of the Furnaces'. Anyway, I digress. There is one more key element, which may be the most difficult."
"What is that?"
"Not only do we need more weapons, we need more men. There is a settlement called Heronbridge. Simitus and Andreah's information says that there are many Veterans living there. It has been arranged for me to meet someone there, to persuade the Veterans to fight with us at the Fort.".
Lacitus was pleased that this bathhouse had remained in reasonable repair, as talks like these had helped organise his thoughts and plan of action. He felt thankful that his brother Centurion Antallius, and his trusted leaders Centurion Jose and Centurion Aglastus, were here.
With that, he decided to make an offering. Standing at the Altar he looked at the inscriptions and pictures. The dedications rang true in his mind and he quietly spoke them out loud, next to his brother. "To Fortune the Home-Bringer, to The God of Healing and to The Goddess of Good Health." Then silently in his mind, his secret. "To Jesus Christ and God".
Something crossed Antallius's mind. "Fight? It sounds as if this possible attack is a more like a definite."
"Unfortunately brother, it is. I don't know when, but Deva Fort will be attacked. It is up to us to save it. Otherwise, a Roman Fort will be lost and Deva will fall."
"My Jupiter!"
"Indeed, Antallius. Indeed."

Chapter 6.
Tribune Lacitus set off with with his brother and two bodyguards from the Fort. Today promised to be a busy day which by its end, Lacitus hoped that Deva Fort's immediate future would be secured.
Before boarding the boat that would take them along the River, Tribune Lacitus wished to make an offering to the nearby Shrine of Minerva in the hope of a successful day.
Constructed by the stone masons and the workers from one of the close-by quarries, Lacitus stared at the figure of Minerva staring back at him, carved out of the stone. Minerva, Goddess of Wisdom looked ahead, holding a spear, with an owl on her shoulder. Lacitus knew that he required all his powers of wisdom today and if a few moments of quiet reflection at this monument helped this, then it was time well spent.
Minerva was also the Goddess of Defensive War and Lacitus hoped to summon up some powers to protect the Fort in the battle that Lacitus knew would come. Unlike his companions for the day, at least to the best of his knowledge, Lacitus silently prayed to Jesus Christ. If anyone found out his beliefs, Lacitus knew that this would be even more trouble for himself.
A happy time came into Lacitus's mind when as a child he stood in Rome's Capitoline Hill staring at a monument of the three deities - Jupiter, Juno and Minerva, just as he stared at this monument to Minerva today. It was strange, thought Lacitus, how moments could repeat themselves.
Minerva was the Goddess of many other aspects of Lacitus's mission. As well as Wisdom and Defensive War, Lacitus would take any help from her on Strategy, Arts and Trade, as Lacitus hoped to fire up the miners, kilns and blacksmiths for the lead, weapons, bricks and tiles, to ready Deva for what was about to come.
Lacitus also looked to Minerva for her Justice and Law. Today's mission sought to call upon the goodwill of the Roman Veterans at Heronbridge. If they believed in Justice and Law, Lacitus hoped they would rally to uphold it and save Deva.
A clink of one of the bodyguard's swords brought Lacitus back to the present. After a few moments, Lacitus took a deep breath and without warning, turned and began the walk to the waiting boat. The rest of the group hurriedly tried to catch their Tribune up, preparing themselves for the next step of today's events.

Chapter 7.
The River was calm, which both Lacitus and Antallius were grateful for, even more so, the two bodyguards who were not used to water travel. The crew got on with their chores, every now and then glancing at their passengers with an air of curiosity. Lacitus waved, almost regally, each time the boat passed a lookout post near the bank. Sometimes there was an excited reaction when a lookout soldier recognised Lacitus, their popular Officer from the past.
If today's mission had not been important, this would have been a pleasant day out on the River but Lacitus knew that the outcome of today's meetings could decide the fate of Deva one way or another.
The boat glided gracefully to the dockside of Heronbridge. As usual Lacitus was first off the boat and striding away, leaving the rest of the group struggling to catch up. Lacitus knew exactly which building he was heading for and was wasting no time in getting there.
As the rest of the group managed to catch up, they were soon coming to a stop again, the bodyguards almost clattering into the back of Antallius and Lacitus.
"This is the building I told you about, Antallius."
"Do you think there is anyone inside? We've seen no-one yet."
"Only one way to find out."
Lacitus knocked on the door.
"Come in. It is opened."
Lacitus and the rest of the group entered the large, square room. At the far end they could see an altar with a young man standing by. The man looked up.
"Lacitus? Greetings! I thought you were now located at The Antonine Wall?"
"Greetings, Julius Secundus! I am, but I have been asked by our Emperor Antoninus Pius to complete a mission in Deva."
"I see." The middle-aged man looked back to the altar.
Lacitus continued. "Your father Centurion Julius Secundus was a great man. You bare his same name. I will never forget his bravery in the ambush, or yours."
Lacitus paused, as if both men were reflecting on a different time. "And so this is the altar that he made?"
"Thank you, Lacitus. Yes it is. The altar is dedicated to the Matres Ollototae - the Foreign Mother Goddesses."
"He really loved Deva. I am not surprised he decided to stay, rather than go back to Rome. I am truly sorry that he took ill and passed away, Julius."
"Thank you once again, Lacitus." The man's thoughts turned to what Lacitus had said earlier. "Is it a dangerous mission that you are on?"
"It is. Deva depends on it. Apart from paying my respects, I am also here as you are an important part of my mission."
"I don't understand."
"All the Veterans would have given their lives for your father. They would do anything that he commanded."
Julius started to move away from the altar. It was only then that Antallius noticed that Julius had picked up a stick and was leaning on it heavily to walk a little with great difficulty, his left leg limping badly.
Lacitus watched Julius walk. "You were well on your way to becoming a Centurion like your father, until you got injured in the ambush."
Julius could not hide the hurt and disappointment etched on his face.
"Both you and your father were close to the Legate. The Legate told me that reading his Library gave you great comfort, after you became injured at the ambush."
"It did. It gave me something to focus on before I was to adjust to life outwith the Army."
Lacitus began to walk around the room, all eyes waiting for his next sentence. "The Legate told me that he showed you the secret papers on the end of the Ninth Legion, a secret that I know, too."
"I know." said Julius. "Like you, I have given my word that I will never tell the secret of the Ninth Legion."
Lacitus stopped walking, laying his arms on the altar. "The Veterans would do anything for you, out of respect for you and your father. I need you to rise with them to save Deva. Without all of you at the Fort, Deva will fall. Otherwise, it will not only be the Ninth Legion that is removed from history."
Lacitus scratched his hand on the altar, resulting in a small trickle of blood. He hoped that was all the blood he would lose in the coming weeks. "Will you speak with the Veterans and have them save Deva, with you as our Standard Bearer?"
Julius stopped moving, looking at both Lacitus and the altar. Antallius and the bodyguards had barely taken breaths throughout, aware of the seriousness of this conversation.
"Lacitus. My namesake Julius Secundus, my father, is never far from my thoughts. He is guiding me just now. He knows what I am about to say - my answer is yes. I will carry his sword into battle. Deva must not fall."
Lacitus smiled. "I will see you all at the Fort." Both men clasped hands, nodding to each other their mutual respect and shared lives.
Lacitus broke away, making his way past Antallius and the two bodyguards. "My maritime transport awaits for my next journey along the River. I hope my next meetings are successful, otherwise I will fail Deva."
Before going through the door, Lacitus stopped and turned his head back, looking at the altar and Julius. "Goodbye Julius - for now."
Lacitus strode out the door. Antallius smiled at Julius and turned, as did the bodyguards, once more having to catch up Lacitus again, who was already out of sight.

Chapter 8.
The River was still calm as the boat travelled down the River. The group watched the shore, silent in their thoughts. The crew got on with their work, occasionally looking at their passengers, wondering what their mission was.
Lacitus spoke to Antallius and the two bodyguards. "This is our next stopping point - Holt. We have a small force here and this place makes bricks, tiles and pottery for Deva and beyond. There are three skilled soldiers here in particular, that I used to know well."
Once more the boat glided into the shore. Almost at once, three soldiers appeared and Lacitus broke into a smile, as did the three soldiers on land.
"It is the three troublemakers!" Laughed Lacitus. "Belletus, Junius and Maternus!"
Lacitus gestured to Antallius and the two bodyguards. "Wait here! I can't wait long if I know you are waiting and so I can't get drawn into a drinking marathon!"
The three soldiers laughed at Lacitus's remark. "We would win anyway, Lacitus!" remarked one of the soldiers as they helped Lacitus onto the ground.
"Someone thought they had seen you at Deva, Lacitus! Welcome!"
"Thank you! Greetings! It is good to see you."
"Are you back permanently?"
Lacitus smiled. "Belletus, you should know by now that nothing is permanent in our line of work!"
"Very true, Lacitus. Is there anything in particular you would like to see?"
"No thank you, gentlemen. I cannot wait. But I have something important to discuss with you, in confidence."
The four men walked to the side, away from the boat and prying eyes and ears.
"Have you had much work from the Fort recently?"
"No" said Belletus. "It stopped last year when the Twentieth moved North."
"I thought so, gentlemen. The Fort has fallen into a state of disrepair. I would like you to visit the Fort next week and note all the repairs that are required. Some of the outer walls are badly damaged and some of the Fort buildings are barely standing. It will be a big task, requiring the kilns here to be used extensively."
"I see." Belletus looked at his two colleagues.
Lacitus sensed that the men were concerned about the task. "Gentlemen. In strictest confidence, the Fort may soon be under attack. I have been brought back to Deva to do all I can to save it. Part of this involves securing the Fort's structure which is why I am talking to you just now. I have also asked the Veterans to return to the Fort."
Lacitus paused and stood tall. "Gentlemen. Will you help me secure the Fort's structure?"
"Of course, Lacitus." replied Belletus.
Next in line was Junius "Yes, Sir!"
The last man in the line was Maternus and all looked to him. Bringing himself to his full height, Maternus cleared his throat. "We are ready, Sir! We will play our part for Lacitus and Deva!"
Lacitus smiled. "Three great men. I expected your answers would be so. Come, let us walk like old times and I will tell you where my last visit of the day will be."
Watching from the boat, Antallius watched his brother and the three men laugh and joke, the conversation out of earshot, but enough for Antallius to know all had gone well.
As the group walked away, Antallius spoke to the two bodyguards. "Lads, take something to eat and drink. Knowing how that group can walk, talk and laugh, they may be some time!"

Chapter 9.
Antallius had fallen asleep, a combination of his lunch, the sunshine and the light breeze of the River air. He had only meant to close his eyes for a moment but he felt as if he had been sleeping for hours.
In reality it had not been long and it was the sound of Lacitus's raucous laughter that had brought Antallius back from his dozing. Opening his eyes he saw Lacitus striding back to the boat. 'Does my brother ever stop?' thought Antallius to himself as Lacitus jumped back on board.
"Right!" shouted Lacitus."Let's go! Onto the next destination!"
The boat's crew looked up from their slumber, all of whom had taken the opportunity to take matters easier while those in charge were either off the boat or having a quiet time to themselves.
Once more the small party got underway. Lacitus in an unceasing level of attention and awareness, scanned any settlements or activities. He nudged Antallius who was about to close his eyes again.
"Antallius! These are the areas of our lead mining and areas that the lead is smelted and cast. See that village over there?"
"Yes."
"That is that village I was telling you about - the one that is known as 'the village of the furnaces'. The locals call it Pentre Ffwrndan."
"I see. It seems quite productive."
"Exactly! And this is what the final stop at Prestatyn will be all about. I need this production stepped up, with the blacksmiths and craftspeople to make us more weapons."
"Sounds sensible." replied Antallius, pleased that his brother seemed to have this multi-faceted plan.
"Indeed! There are a lot of local tradespeople in our service at Prestatyn. I am hoping it will be the same man in charge when I was here last - a good soldier called Albis. He'll get all this activity working for us and shipped along the River to the Fort."
The boat turned towards the Riverbank. Waiting there was the man Lacitus had hoped for.
"Albis! Greetings! It is good to see you."
"Greetings Lacitus! It is good to see you too! Have you brought these other drinking companions with you?"
"No. They can wait here. My brother and I will come ashore."
Lacitus pointed to the rear of the boat for the benefit of the crew and the bodyguards. "See that box over there, lads? Open it up when I've gone. You'll find some good things to eat and drink in it!"
The faces of the crew and the bodyguards lit up. Antallius wondered at the skill of Lacitus who always seemed to have the right words or supplies for any situation.
Once ashore, Lacitus described to Albis where he had been so far in today's adventures and what he hoped Albis would provide the Fort.
"It would be an honour to provide these items for the Fort and to you, Tribune. Come! Let me show you how this place had expanded since you were last here."
The three men walked off and soon came to one of the local blacksmiths. "This is our Tribune and a Centurion from the Fort. Can you spare a moment to show him what you are making?"
"Of course. Come closer."
Gathering round, the men watched the blacksmith take the sword from the fire, placing it on the bench. Then the rhythmic sounds of striking metal, sounds of a skilled craftsman. There was something beautiful to the tone of the beating, immersing all who watched.
The blacksmith stopped striking and lifted the sword from the bench. "This is the sword - that is going to kill you!" The blacksmith lunged at Lacitus, the flat of the sword thrust into Lacitus's chest to knock Lacitus off his feet onto the floor. The blacksmith then readied his sword to stab Lacitus on the ground.
Antallius shouted and charged at the blacksmith, unsheathing his sword in a skilled movement, enough for the blacksmith to turn. Antallius struck the blacksmith's sword, sweeping the sword out of the blacksmith's hand, who was clearly more skilled at his craft than fighting.
Some nearby soldiers stepped in and manhandled the blacksmith away, Lacitus getting back on his feet.
"I trust there is someone that can take his place?"
"Yes, Sir!"
"Spare his life though and let him return to work tomorrow. Who knows, if all goes badly for us, maybe he could speak up and return the favour!"
Antallius and Albis laughed, with Lacitus brushing himself off, as if nothing had happened.

Chapter 10.
A bout of sickness had spread through the Fort, resulting in soldiers having to cover different positions. As a result Legionary Castus had temporarily been tasked with arranging food supplies with the local traders.
At least, thought Castus, this would be a change from his usual position of being in charge of the East Gate, a position that he had easily slotted back into since his return.
Castus reflected on how busy the Fort had been in recent weeks. First of all, the existing soldiers had been toiling non-stop, putting the Fort back into some sort of order. Gone were the big mounds of rubbish and derelict areas. Castus recognised Belletus as a face from the past, who organised brick and tile repairs. Certainly the defences were now in a much better state since 'Bellowing Belletus' had appeared.
Castus also recognised Julius Secundus, The Younger, who had also recently reappeared. Castus had since learned that Julius had been responsible for bringing back many Veterans to the Fort for temporary re-enlistment, raising the question for Castus that perhaps the Fort was in danger of a serious attack.
Castus had wondered how the seriously injured Julius could possibly re-enlist after the horrific leg injuries he had suffered from an ambush several years before. Yet this problem had been overcome by Tribune Lacitus by offering Julius the position of Standard Bearer.
This seemed to be sensible for three reasons, thought Castus. Firstly Julius was a popular figure amongst the men and secondly the usual Standard Bearer was now 'up North' with the bulk of the Twentieth Legion, somewhere around the Antonine and Hadrian's Wall.
Thirdly, thought Castus, it would be difficult for Julius to fight as before, shown by the painful limp and stick that Julius sometimes used. In practice with The Standard though, Julius looked every part the brave Veteran that indeed he was and so was a fine choice.
Walking through the East Gate, Castus nodded and smiled to Albis who sat proudly at the front of yet another wagon delivery of newly made weapons. Castus remembered fondly many a night with Albis in the past, drinking and laughing until the early hours. Albis was always the life and soul of any gathering but even he seemed serious, giving Castus further reason to believe something ominous was afoot.
Castus didn't have to walk very far to reach the first food supplier, whose eyes lit up at the approaching Castus. Looking at the array of vegetables, Castus felt that someone over his shoulder watching him. Trying not to appear obvious Castus turned his head.
"I've been waiting for you to come out."
"Coral!" Castus was amazed to see the love of his life staring back at him. "How are you?"
"I'm fine. Why did you leave?"
"I had no choice. I was to be stationed up North. I thought it was best to leave without saying goodbye."
"Best for who?"
Castus scanned Coral's face, looking for some clue as to what Coral was thinking. He found no answer. "Best for both of us."
"I see." Coral did not want Castus to see the hurt that she had hid away for so long, her feelings unclear on the whole matter, especially now, face to face.
Coral brought herself quickly back to the matter in hand. "I have seen you back at your same position on The Eastern Gate. My father knew there was something wrong with me the night after I saw you. He has a proposition for you."
"What do you mean?"
"It is an open secret that out Tribe is going to attack The Fort. The only question is when. Well, it is tonight. If you leave The East Gate unattended the battle will be over quickly. The soldiers will be allowed to leave, giving their word to negotiate a lasting peace, with our Tribe in charge of our own destiny, in return."
"This is madness! My Tribune or the soldiers would never agree to this!"
Coral continued. "They will! Also, I would see you at The Western Gate and take you away to safety. No-one from your Unit would ever know what happened to you. You would live far from here in our Southern lands, in peace and prosperity."
"With you?" Castus took Coral's hand, who was taken by surprise with Castus's response.
"Perhaps. In time. There is much to repair before that. But yes, perhaps, in time."
Castus felt his heart race. He thought of all his past failed schemes, his mercenary spying and blackmails. Could this now be his time to find his settled life. He stood with his mouth slightly open, only able to breathe and unable to reply.
Coral put her palm on his chest. "I will see you tonight, Castus. I will see you tonight." Coral smiled and turned away. With her back to Castus and walking away, she snarled, knowing her plan had worked. The Romans would be beaten and Castus would receive his very own special form of justice.

Chapter 11.
Nightfall. Being the height of Summer, it was more of a gloom than darkness. Castus looked out of The Eastern Gate, staring at the eyes of the Tribe ahead.
This was the moment for Castus to take personal advantage of the situation. To open the Eastern Gate and flee to The Western Gate, to then live out the rest of his life in luxury with Coral, as his reward.
Castus stared at the eyes in front of him. Now was the time to open The Eastern Gate and let his new life begin. But he had thought about this all day and had decided what to do. He was going to do the right thing - not for him, but for his comrades.
At the top of his voice, Castus shouted. "Invaders at The Eastern Gate! Invaders at The Eastern Gate!"
The open secret was revealed, an open secret from both sides. Tribune Lacitus woke immediately on hearing Castus and soldiers throughout the Fort readied themselves, having been told in recent days that an attack was imminent.
Roman soldiers got into position in the courtyard, watching their comrades losing a battle on the parapets. The Tribe flowed over the top, some of which then pushed the heavy wooden bar up and onto the ground, opening up the Eastern Gate. They seemed to know what they were doing, having attacked The Fort before. This time, their ultimate attack.
The fate of The Fort now rested with five men, lined up as in practice. Tribune Lacitus and Centurion Antallius in the centre, Centurions Jose and Aglastus on either flank and Standard Bearer Julius by the Tribune.
The vast amount of attackers had surprised Lacitus, as they now streamed through the open Gate. "Hold the line! Hold the line!"
The tribe clashed into the line, their shields and swords merging with the Roman defence. Every now and then a Roman would go down, with the Tribe looking for any opportunity to then break through the Roman defence. Before they could, another Roman would take their place, urged on by one of the Officers, each of whom had their own battle to contend with.
Tribune Lacitus watched the Tribe charge through the open Gate. He was not confident that his men could hold this amount of attack. Soon he was surrounded in a small knot of attackers, almost strangling his line and threatening the Tribe to break through the line on either side.
No matter how bravely the Soldiers and the Veterans tried, Romans were falling and the line was beginning to fail. Julius surveyed the situation and the face of The Tribune. The battle could soon be lost. Julius paused for a moment, touching the handle of his father's sword that he wore on his side. Bashing an attacker in the face with his elbow, he screamed with all his might. "Twentieth Legion, Advance!"
The men rallied to The Standard Bearer. With renewed vigour the Romans pushed their way forward. Julius struck an attacker with The Standard and then parried another to his side. The Romans beside despatched the attackers and advanced further.
Tribune Lacitus and his group bravely held their positions and he managed to glance to the flanks where Centurions Jose and Aglastus were now moving inwards.
Despite the vast numbers of attackers, perhaps the battle could be won by the Romans after all. Glancing to Julius, Lacitus saw that the Standard Bearer had become a focus of attention from both sides.
Julius shook the Standard high, yelling loudly. The men had always considered the importance of The Standard and would fight not to see it fall. The centre had redoubled their efforts as a result of Julius and the flanks had managed to pincer in.
The Tribe sensed the turning of the battle and this decline in confidence spread through their men. This was enough to begin their retreat and soon the Tribe were fleeing back through The Eastern Gate.
The Romans advanced further as the attackers fled and The Eastern Gate was once more secure, the heavy bar pushed over and down by three men, one of whom was Legionary Castus.
As the bar locked into place and the adrenaline eased, the pain crept back through Julius's leg and he had to lean on the standard to stop himself falling. The officers looked towards The Standard and saw that it remained and that the battle had been won.
Outside The Western Gate, Coral watched her Tribe flee in the distance, their attack on The Eastern Gate having failed. Castus had not come and The Western Gate remained closed. Getting up, Coral and her two bodyguards turned and made their way to their fleeing Tribe.
Coral left, wondering if her pretence of love had been seen through by Castus or if Castus had put his Legion first over his feelings.
At the same time, Castus returned to his position in the courtyard. No-one would see what he was thinking or feeling as he dusted off his tunic whilst thinking of Coral - the lady he had forgone for the sake of the Twentieth Legion.

Chapter 12.
Julius stood to attention in Tribune Lacitus's Office. His left leg hurt constantly from the injuries he had received long ago in the ambush - the ambush that had ended his military career and hastened his Centurion father's bad heart, leading to his early death.
Since the attack on The Fort, all had been quiet and the anticipated further attacks did not happen. The Soldiers and the Veterans had done enough to secure Deva - at least for now.
Further renovation of The Fort continued and supplies of weapons strengthened. The Eagle Standard stood proudly in its place and Julius regularly lifted the spirits of the men by marching with The Standard throughout The Fort.
Julius wondered why he had been summoned to the Tribune's Office and he tried to hold himself together, whilst the Tribune finished off what he was reading at his desk.
Tribune Lacitus looked up, momentarily looking uneasy at what he had been reading, until his composure was regained. "At ease, Standard Bearer Julius. Please take a seat."
"Thank you, Sir." Julius sat down, easing his father's sword to a more comfortable position.
"I have asked you here today to correct a great wrong."
"Sir?" Julius was shocked, unaware of what the Tribune was meaning.
"Your father fell just short of the twenty-five years service due to his heart. I have never forgotten the bravery of you and your father in the ambush. You both saved my life, but it resulted in your leg injuries and the rapid decline of your father's health."
Julius's left leg throbbed in pain at its mention and he had to hold back the urge to clasp it, to ease the pain.
"You carried your father's sword into battle and your courage as our Standard Bearer to Advance, altered the course of the battle, winning our victory from a possible point of defeat."
Tribune Lacitus rose from his chair behind the desk. Julius began to get up and Lacitus gestured to Julius to remain seated. "Don't get up, Julius. Stay there."
Lacitus walked round to Julius's side of the desk. Carefully, Lacitus placed his hands on two corners of the cloth that lay on the desk and removed it. Below, a bronze plaque appeared, finely decorated with letters - the kind of plaque that recognised twenty-five years service and the benefits therein.
"You carried your father's sword into battle and that was good enough for me. More importantly, it was also good enough for the authorities above me."
Julius looked puzzled. He recognised the plaque for what it was but how did it relate to him? Then, it dawned on him. His father's service plus Julius's recent service with his father's sword, now exceeded the twenty-five years.
Tribune Lacitus saw the dawning on Julius's face. "This plaque is made in your father's name. It recognises twenty-five years service and gives entitlement to Roman Citizenship, for the plaque holder and his children. As a result Julius, you as his son, are now a citizen of Rome, with all the benefits this entails."
Julius felt extremely honoured but there was something wrong with him. He had never been able to conceal his true feelings and Lacitus, who was quick to pick up on all such matters, was alerted to this.
"Are you alright, Julius?"
"Sir. Being back in the Army has shown me that this is what I want to do with my life. I know I am injured but my bravery sees me through. Can I remain as The Standard Bearer? Perhaps share the position when the Twentieth returns back South?"
Tribune Lacitus placed his hand on Julius's shoulder. "Is that what you want?"
"It truly is, Sir."
Tribune Lacitus tried to show no difference but was secretly relieved. He knew that he needed all the help, good fortune and lucky breaks as possible, in light of the most recent intelligence he had received - The Tribe was preparing to attack again.
Tribune Lacitus breathed slowly in and then out. "Julius Secundus, please stand."
Julius got up painfully from the seat, his left leg almost giving way.
Tribune Lacitus waited until Julius had steadied himself. "it is my honour to continue your service as a Standard Bearer for the Twentieth Legion. We have much work to do. To begin, I need your help to persuade the Veterans to continue a little longer, until further help arrives. can you do this?"
Standard Bearer Julius Secundus had never felt more proud. "Yes, Sir! I can!"
The End.
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