The Antonine Romans and The Gladiators

The Antonine Romans and The Gladiators

By

Andrew Boyce

Description:

A Gladiator Fight at the Trimontium Amphitheatre, Scottish Borders, holds the fate of Tribune Lacitus and his family. His brother - Centurion Antallius has his own battles to overcome with the attack on Balmuildy Fort. The exciting fifth Novella in The Antonine Romans Series. All the Novellas are standalone.

Chapter 1.
Centurion Antallius put on his sword belt and took a few deep breaths. Balmuildy Roman Fort was under attack and this may be his last moments of calm before stepping out of his quarters, to the scene outside.
After a final deep breath, Antallius opened the door and stepped out. The cold and dark contrasted with the warmth and light from the buildings on fire from the fire arrows of the attackers. But this was no time to think of contrasts, thought Andronicus.
"Are the front gates and ramparts holding, Optio Scrivinus?"
"Yes, Sir! It appears they are here in large numbers. By all accounts, this is a serious attack. Their fire arrows are causing widespread damage and our front gates and ramparts are in danger."
"Very well, Optio. Let's make our way to the front." Antallius wanted to exude an air of calm and control. The last thing the men would want to see was a young officer frantically running around out of his depth. Even in the midst of battle, the men would have an eye on him, looking for orders, structure and support.
Truth was, however that Centurion Antallius was stepping largely into the unknown and he needed now, more than anything else in his life, the experience of his older Optio Scrivinus and the men. Passing by the hospital building, Antallius noted that it was on fire.
"Are the doctor and patient accounted for, Optio?"
Optio Scrivinus thought for a moment. "No. They have not been seen."
Antallius stopped one of the soldiers who were carrying water buckets to the front. "One moment, soldier. I require these two water buckets."
"Yes, Sir!" The soldier put down the two buckets, saluted and started his run back to the river to receive more buckets.
Antallius turned to Scrivinus. "I am going in. If I do not survive, make sure you protect the front gates and ramparts."
"But.."
"That's an order, Scrivinus."
Antallius tipped the water over himself and went through the doorway. The building was thick with smoke and he tried to cover his mouth with his cloak as he moved through the building. Reaching the room, he saw Legionary Seggus lying on the bed, coughing and spluttering. Seggus was in hospital due to a badly injured leg, the result of an ambush a few days earlier. Antallius looked over to the corner, where the unmoving doctor lay on the floor.
"On your feet, Soldier! Let's get you out of here!"
"Yes, Sir!" coughed Seggus. Seggus put his arm around his Centurion and they made their way out of the room and out of the building to safety. Seggus half staggered into the arms of Optio Scrivinus as Antallius turned back into the burning building.
The smoke was much worse now and the building was fully ablaze, possibly with only a short time before the building collapsed in on itself. Antallius managed to stumble towards the doctor lying on the floor.
"Doctor Taris! Get up!"
There was no response from the unconscious Taris and Antallius continued lifting him up and over his shoulder. The burning framework was starting to fall on top of them as Antallius did his best to start walking for the exit, Taris slung over his back. Antallius put his hand out and deflected a large wooden beam that was falling towards them. Should they survive, Antallius would have a nasty burn to his arm, as a result.
Antallius made out the slightly less dark image of the doorway and headed towards it, his legs aching with the lack of clean air to fuel them, in the smoke filled building. Only a few more steps and they would be out in the open.
Amazingly they had reached the doorway. "We have made it, Doctor!"
In that same instant the doorway collapsed, bringing the remaining frame of the building down, onto Antallius and the Doctor. Somehow, Antallius pushed the Doctor forward and clear as the remaining building collapsed on top of Antallius. The pain shot through Antallius's head and shoulders, a mixture of the heavy, falling building and burning flesh. And so this is how I will end, thought Antallius as his vision faded and everything went black.

Chapter 2.
"I am so glad that you - my first Centurion and my first Optio - have agreed to spend a few days with me at Balmuildy Fort. You will like it there and I will try be as good a host as my father."
As the three started off on their journey, Tribune Lacitus turned back in his saddle to take one last look at Trimontium Fort. Somehow he felt that this was not the last he would see of this Fort, as he watched one of the Fort's cat, Bathsheba, scurry inside, before the gates closed.
Lacitus was looking forward to returning to Balmuildy Roman Fort, to see his brother Centurion Antallius and the rest of the men. It had been a difficult few days, to say the least, from finding himself in the heart of Londinium's Mithraeum, to killing General Tiscerus in the stands of Corinium's Amphitheatre - all to pay off his father's debts.
Lacitus waved his goodbye to his father a few moments earlier - Senior Tribune Rexis of Trimontium Roman Fort - a good position to retire from, free of debt, free of mind and able to return to their home in Rome. Lacitus looked forward to visiting Rome again, hopefully not too far in the future.
As the trio carried on with their journey, Lacitus reflected that one thing he missed from Rome was the sunshine and the warmth on his face. Here in this Northern Frontier, he felt that he had yet to experience such warmth and as Lacitus smiled to himself, this was even on days when there was no rain. No wonder the locals always seemed to like talking about the weather, as if nothing else, it was always interesting and secretly pleasant, not having the extremes of some other parts of the Empire.
Good time was made and nearing nightfall, Balmuildy Roman Fort came into view in the distance. On seeing the Fort ahead of them, all three men stopped suddenly, no words needed to express their disbelief at the burning buildings lighting up the dark sky.
Tribune Lacitus solemnly stared on. "This is not good. Not good at all."
Little did Lacitus know that these exact words had been spoken recently by two others - by his brother Centurion Antallius on hearing that Balmuildy Fort was under attack and by Simitus of the Londinium Mithraeum on hearing that General Tiscerus had somehow survived the attack from Lacitus at the Corinium Amphitheatre.
Tribune Lacitus surveyed the same. "Gentlemen. I know a secluded way into this Fort. One of my paid spies, Legionary Castus, found this out from another Legionary called Nastin, who let slip his secret exit point that he used to meet a woman, in a moment of drunken stupor.
Optio Sabis smiled. "I see you have lost none of your cunning, Tribune Lacitus!"
"No. None at all. I am just a little greyer around the edges! In fact, with a higher salary comes higher costs. Knowledge is key. Gentlemen, old comrades. I must ask you once more. Are you ready for war?"
Optio Sabis and Centurion Jose looked at each other and nodded. As one, they replied, in the serious tone, befitting the serious position they were in.
"We are ready, Sir!"
It would seem that Optio Sabis and Centurion Jose had not changed either. Just like Tribune Lacitus, only a little greyer around the edges.

Chapter 3.
Andreah strode purposefully along the corridor in the Londinium Mithraeum. Her face was white with shock from the uninvited guest that she had just admitted to the waiting area. The echoes of her footsteps in the long, cold corridor intensified her foreboding. She realised now, this was not a game, her position in assisting Simitus had serious consequences, even shaping the Empire's entire future.
Andreah knocked on the door and entered. Simitus looked up from his documents and smiled. Sometimes he did not pick up people's expressions and was glad that he could now take a break from his reading.
Andreah, in a state of shock and very white, began to speak. "You are not going to believe who is in the waiting area. "
Simitus wondered which friend was visiting. Could he buy himself a little time to think by giving a humourous answer?
"Is it someone purporting to be a descendant of Julius Caesar?"
"No." Before Andreah could continue, Simitus carried on.
"A direct descendant of Cleopatra, perhaps?"
"No, listen. This is deadly serious."
Simitus looked closely at Andreah and saw how white she was. He realised that this must be a serious matter.
"It is General Tiscerus."
It was now Simitus's face that turned white, drained of colour on hearing the name, someone that if he became Emperor, could bring down the Roman Empire, due to his corruption and ruthlessness.
Simitus composed himself and with a stern expression, he looked directly at Andreah, all traces of his previous humour, erased.
"Bring him in please, Andreah."
Andreah left the room and Simitus tried to take a few calm breaths before his encounter with one of the most feared Generals of the Roman Army. All to soon, the General was being shown into the room.
"I will dispense with any pleasantries, Simitus."
Simitus nodded in acknowledgement.
"I know that you tried to have me killed. That the followers of Mithras see me as an unsuitable candidate to be an Emperor."
"How can you know this?"
"One of the attackers from the Corinium Amphitheatre told me so. Granted, it took him a lot of persuasion. Indeed, he only finally told me the truth a few moments before his death. It was a particularly difficult torture, but I usually discover the truth in the end."
Simitus looked on, not knowing how to reply.
General Tiscerus continued. "I know it all. I know how you hand picked Tribune Lacitus and eleven others to kill me in the crowd of the Amphitheatre. As you can see, it didn't work. But I am here to make you an offer, Simitus."
"Go on."
"One fight with Tribune Lacitus. If I win, you and your Mithraen followers are to leave me alone and I will further my bid for Emperor in good time, away from this rain soaked country. If I lose, then I am no longer a problem to you, I am dead. Win or lose, you have my word that I will leave you and your followers alone, even in the after-life.
"Why Tribune Lacitus?"
"Because I cannot further my bid on the basis that I was defeated by him in the crowd of the Amphitheatre. My reputation has been built upon winning my battles."
"And where and how would you fight him?"
"Before one of his fellow attackers died from his torture, I learned all about Tribune Lacitus and his father - Senior Tribune Rexis of Trimontium Fort. Lacitus and I will be Gladiators to the death at Trimontium Amphitheatre. Someone can then send word to Rexis in Rome after the battle, that his son Tribune Lacitus died at Trimontium, the Fort he used to run. It all fits nicely, a noble fight and glory, the sort of story Emperors are made of."
"I see." Simitus was not one to take long in making a decision. "Very well. Consider it done. And you have my word that should you win, you will be left alone. In this case, please always put the good of the Empire first."
"Don't lecture me! I will do as I please! You and your religion may have a dim view of me but remember, it is not all black and white. Write to me with the date and time of the battle and I will be there, in Trimontium. The Empire will be in safe hands with me! You have my word, too!"
Simitus looked on as General Tiscerus stormed away.
"Andreah? Prepare to assist me in a document. We must make Tribune Lacitus an offer he cannot refuse. Help me think how this can be done."
Simitus touched the gold ring on his finger and stroked the raised seal of Mithras and The Bull, beginning the process with Andreah of their joint effort to construct and write a persuasive letter to Tribune Lacitus. What the letter would ask would be for Lacitus to risk it all, including his life. What possibly could be the reward for all of this? This is what Simitus and Andreah would have to work out.

Chapter 4.
Lacitus lead his two comrades along the edge of the trees to the far rear side of Balmuildy Fort. There were no attackers here, who were concentrating their efforts at the front gate and front palisades.
Checking all the time for attackers, Lacitus then moved inwards towards the Fort edge, with his two men close behind. Carefully, he removed a mass of branches to one side and within moments, a sizeable gap had appeared.
"This is the gap one of my soldiers used to use to get to his romantic assignations. As they say, 'love has no walls or boundaries to keep us apart '." His two comrades raised their eyebrows, astonished that the Fort had been so easily breached and quickly followed Lacitus through the gap.
Inside, soldiers were running around. Some were trying to beat out fires or were throwing buckets of water over the flames. Others were running with buckets to and from the river, doing their best to save the Fort from fire.
Lacitus looked past these soldiers to see the main concentration behind the front gates and on the front palisades, Optio Scrivinus directing operations at the rear.
Lacitus broke into a run, closely followed by his two companions, heading for Optio Scrivinus. Optio Scrivinus turned as he heard the three men running towards him.
"Tribune Lacitus, Sir? How did you appear, Sir?"
"At ease, Optio. I know every way in and out of this Fort. Where is Centurion Antallius?"
Optio Scrivinus pointed towards a cart. "Over there, Sir. He is unconscious and burned after saving the doctor and the patient. An orderly is attending to him."
Tribune Lacitus looked on, shocked and open mouthed at the state of his brother. At least he was being attended to and so the next step was to attend to these attackers.
Optio Scrivinus had done a good job of securing the front gates and front palisades but this would not win the battle.
"A third of the men are to remain in these positions, Optio. Have the other two thirds form into Unit A and Unit B. I will lead Unit A and my previous Centurion - Centurion Jose - will lead Unit B. My previous Optio - Optio Sabis will assist you in this present position at the front gates and palisades. Units A and B will leave from the rear of the Fort, move round and then squeeze the attackers from the sides. Understood, Optio?"
"Yes, Sir!"
"Very good, Optio. Shout out the commands when I say ready." Lacitus paused for a moment. "Ready!"
Centurion Jose and Optio Sabis grinned, glad to be part of the Roman Army once more, like old times once again.
Tribune Lacitus started to lead Unit A in quick time towards the gap at the rear side of the Fort. Closely following, Unit B formed up with Centurion Jose at its front.
Centurion Jose turned to address his new Unit, before they set off. "The older lads will remember me! For the younger lads, I am Centurion Jose and you will soon know my bravery in battle! Let me see your bravery in return!"
Unit B shouted back in reply. "Yes, Sir!"
As arranged, once Tribune Lacitus was through the gap, he began travelling eastwards with his Unit. Soon after, Centurion Jose emerged through the gap to proceed westwards. Jose spoke quietly to himself. "A classic pincer movement! Good old Tribune Lacitus!"
Under the cover of darkness and trees, both Units crept to their positions and watched the attackers before them. Tribune Lacitus raised and lowered a flag, which was just visible to Centurion Jose. Both Units closed in, each forming an unbroken wall of shields and swords, the light from the fires picking out the swords awaiting their enemy.
The enemy became aware of the two advancing lines that would hem them in. Their focus turned away from the palisades or their efforts to break down the front gates.
The advantage was now with the Romans. There seemed no answer to their long lengths of shields with their deadly swords between them. Some of the attackers began to be killed by the swords and it was clear that defeat would follow. Their leaders issued orders and the attackers were soon making their way to where they had come.
The two Units altered their positions to line up in front of the Fort, the attackers now gone. The head of Centurion Sabis with his distinctive bronze coloured helmet that he had always favoured, appeared on the palisade.
"All clear in here, Sir. The fires are under control as well, Sir."
Tribune Lacitus looked up to the palisade. "Very good, Optio. Very good." As he looked at the last of the attackers disappearing into the trees, his thoughts returned to that of his brother, wondering if he had survived.

Chapter 5.
The Balmuildy Fort had been a hive of activity in the few weeks since the attack. There was considerable rebuilding to be done, to repair the fire damaged buildings. Some of the most seriously injured had now left the Fort on carts to be treated by Angelis and Nastin in a nearby settlement.
Deaths had been few though, reflected Legionary Castus as he sat alone in his hut. Long ago, he had arranged with his other hut mates that they would each have a quiet time on their own, to do with what they wished.
For Legionary Castus, this allowed him to catch up with his secretive activities, whether that was on behalf of Tribune Lacitus, the Mithraen religion or his other clandestine contacts.
Castus started to decode the letter purporting to be from his mother. It was in reality from Simitus of the Mithraen religion, to be for Tribune Lacitus and was classed as of the upmost importance. Castus smiled to himself that this letter crossed two of his secret contacts that he worked separately for.
Having carefully transcribed the letter to its new form in his own writing, Castus reached through the gap in one of the small floorboards, taking it out and placing it to one side. He then reached in again and his fingers connected with the small item he was searching for.
Lifting out the item, he placed it down carefully on the floor beside him and stared at it, in wonder. Before him was the gold ring, shining in the light. The top of the gold ring was decorated with an image - Mithras and The Bull - identical to the gold ring that belonged to Simitus in the Londinium Mithraeum.
This similarity was not by chance. This was the gold ring that Simitus had given Castus several years ago in Simitus's dark chamber in Londinium and was to be used as the seal in his secret letters.
Castus heated the wax, placing it expertly on the letter, sealing it with the image of Mithras and The Bull. As he had done with other letters in the past, Castus quickly put all the materials back into the hole and replaced the small piece of wooden floor once more.
Lying on top of his bed, he closed his eyes, waiting for the sound of his comrades to come back, while he thought about how to get his new letter into the hands of Tribune Lacitus. Not today though, he thought, as he began thinking of the money this task will have earned.

Chapter 6.
Legionary Castus entered the Office building. "I'm sorry to trouble you at such an early hour, Sir. But I am a worrier. With all that's happened in recent days, please could you check that my Funeral Club is upto date?"
The Senior Clerk looked up from his desk.
"It is very early, Soldier. I have only just got to my desk. Are you sure this can't wait?"
"No, Sir. This would really ease my mind."
The Senior Clerk tried not to sigh, too obviously.
"Very well. What is your name, Soldier?"
"Legionary Castus, Sir."
"Alright. Please wait here while I go and retrieve the documents."
"Thank you, Sir." Castus stood still as he watched the Senior Clerk rise from his seat and depart to the back office area. Once the Senior Clerk had left, Castus took out the letter from within his tunic, the red seal with the imprint of Mithras and The Bull looking impressive. Carefully, he placed the letter amongst the others on the desk, returning to his stillness, as the Senior Clerk returned.
The Senior Clerk sat down and opened up a large record book. "Legionary Castus, you say?"
"Yes, Sir."
The Senior Clerk used his finger to go down the list of names, coming to Legionary Castus and then moving his finger along to the result.
"I am pleased to say that your Funeral Club is upto date, Legionary Castus. Is there anything else?"
"No, Sir. That has eased my mind. Thank you, Sir."
Legionary Castus turned and walked away, trying not to allow a smile, knowing that his valuable document had been delivered. Valuable to all concerned, thought Castus.
The Senior Clerk watched Legionary Castus walk away out of the office. Such a shame, he thought - to be so worried at that young age.
The Senior Clerk continued with his thoughts. Back to work, he thought. Now, the documents. Quite a few for Tribune Lacitus today, he reflected.
The Senior Clerk looked through the pile of documents, gathering them all together. He thought that he had better get them into The Tribune's hands as soon as possible, starting with the fancy one with the red seal.
The Senior Clerk spoke out loud to himself. "Looks like another busy day." He blew out his cheeks and then took a few deep breaths. "Another busy day."

Chapter 7.
Tribune Lacitus stood alone in the middle of the Trimontium Amphitheatre, holding the letter from Simitus. Hearing footsteps, he turned to see Simitus, his Assistant Andreah and an old man.
"You came then, Tribune Lacitus."
"I did."
"Do you accept?" asked Simitus.
Lacitus paused for a moment. "Do I have your word that you will keep to what you have offered?"
"You have my word. Just as your father's debts were all paid off, you have my word that you and your brother will have the opportunity of Senate positions and that your nephew Julius will have the very best education, to lead to the Senate and beyond, should he so wish. You and your family will want for nothing."
"And confirm for me, this is regardless of the result?"
"This is regardless of the result. I clearly want you to succeed, but should you fail, I have more confidence in General Tiscerus now that I have met and talked with him. I see now that it is not all black and white and should he win, I would not stand in his way for higher Office. I have spent some time with him and he does seem to have honour."
"Then what is the point of still having this fight?"
"Because he is not the one that we wish to be Emperor. We would rather have Tiscerus dead."
"Just like that." said Lacitus.
"Just like that." confirmed Simitus.
"Also, Tiscerus does not think he could conduct a successful bid to become Emperor without overturning the result of your near victorious fight in the Corinium Amphitheatre crowd. It's a pity Tiscerus recovered. And so here we are."
Lacitus turned his attention to Simitus's two companions. Lacitus nodded "I recognise your Assistant Andreah from our last meeting."
Andreah nodded back in return.
"Who is your other travelling companion?"
"This is Brullus."
Brullus nodded his head, as did Lacitus.
"Brullus is an undefeated Gladiator from long ago. His last victory was in Camulodunum. He is here to teach you as much as possible before tomorrow's fight."
Brullus caught Lacitus's eye. "Don't look so worried, lad! I'm here to help you, not kill you!" Brullus placed the bags he had onto the ground and started to open them.
Simitus and Andreah shared a look. "We'll leave you to it. We'll head upto the Fort and get something to eat."
After Simitus and Andreah had left, Brullus felt it was upto him to break the silence.
"The most important thing I can tell you is that you have got to take your chances. This is not some 'nicey nice' fight where you shake hands and go home. One of you will not be going home and you have to do everything to ensure that isn't you. Everything. Got it?"
"Yes."
"You are strong and powerful. Look at your muscular arms and shoulders. The ideal build for a Murmillo and that is who you are now!"
Brullus stepped closer to Lacitus. "Murmillo, put all of this on."
Murmillo held out his arm and Brullus put on the Manica - a thick, tough leather arm guard that encased his whole right arm. Brullus tied up the straps. "Your arm is also a weapon, see? Push it in to him! Get an advantage!"
Brullus reached into the bag and brought out the shining, short Roman sword. "Simitus told me that you are skilled with your Gladius. Make sure you are! Use every trick in the book! See this Gladius?"
"Yes."
"This Gladius was mine! With it comes all the power of my past victories. You must not let my weapon have a defeat! Understand?"
"Yes."
"Now your leg padding, your Fasciae. And your shin guards, your Ocrea." Brullus helped Lacitus strap on the thick, heavy leg protection on. "Kick him with it! You have powerful legs!"
"Now your shield. You are used to that, too! It is your defence and your attack! But it is heavy. You will need your strength and endurance for this weight."
"What is left in the bag?"
Brullus grinned. "Something befitting a Tribune. Something with a plume as noble as you deserve."
Brullus pulled out a large, bronze helmet with an ornate face grill and a horsehair plume. "This is the helmet I wore and I give it to you for good fortune. I was an undefeated Murmillo Gladiator. My last fight was at the Camulodunum Amphitheatre."
Brullus smiled, some previous memory to mind. "A crack to your head and it may save your life - but it is heavy like the shield."
Brullus suddenly took on a serious expression. "All our training from now on, you will wear my helmet, Murmillo. You are Murmillo!"
"I am Lacitus, Tribune of The Antonine Wall, proud leader of Romans!"
"No! You are Murmillo! The only way you will survive in the Gladiator ring is by being a Gladiator! Feel it! Swing and thrust your sword! That's it! Push your shield! Push your legs! Push it! Who are you?"
"I am Murmillo! I am Murmillo! I am Murmillo!"

Chapter 8.
It was late afternoon, cold and light starting to fade. As Lacitus and Brullus had not came back to the Fort, Simitus and Andreah decided to walk back to the Amphitheatre and watched from the side, unnoticed.
"Tell me more about who I am fighting please, Teacher."
"The Hoplomachus - the armoured fighter. A deadly fighter. Tiscerus with his Greek origin, has taken on this form. He is Hoplomachus."
Murmillo nodded, wanting more.
"Hoplomachus will use his small round shield - the Hoplon - not only for defence, but for attack! He will charge you with it. Watch out for the charge! His arm is protected by his Manica - his iron arm guard. Your sword will just scrape off it, unless it is a precise hit."
"What about Hoplomachus's legs?"
"Good! He is Hoplomachus not Tiscerus. One Gladiator versus another Gladiator. No room for human feeling. You are killing or be killed. Good, Very good!"
Brullus grinned. "His legs are padded, like you Murmillo! He may charge you with his legs! His head is heavy with his bronze helmet, like you Murmillo! Spear and sword, he has! Two warriors tested on their endurance, as long as you don't make an early mistake, Murmillo!"
"I won't make any mistakes, Teacher."
"You will, Murmillo. As will he. Say a prayer to Jupiter that your mistakes are less serious than his! Look out for moves you have never seen before! Expect the unexpected!"
Simitus and Andreah exchanged a look once more and without a word, they silently turned back to the Fort, as Teacher and Student practiced their battles into the darkness, that was beginning to loom in, over the hills.

Chapter 9.
"I didn't sleep well, Teacher."
"No, neither did I. I never did on the night before a battle."
Brullus looked at his student closely. "You have already won the battle, in a way."
"What do you mean?"
"Well, I understand from Simitus and Andreah that regardless of whether you win or lose, things will be easier for your family, such as your brother and nephew."
"That is the only reason I agreed."
"I know. But in your heart, you must have the fire to win! Simitus may not keep to his word. You have to be alive to keep him to his word!"
"You think he won't?"
"Possibly. The only way you can ensure this better life for your family is to win!" Brullus stepped away, pleased that he had put the fire into his student's belly.
This left Lacitus alone with his thoughts again, but now with a determination to win, to hold Simitus to his word. He spoke directly to his two former comrades that sat with him - retired Centurion Jose and retired Optio Sabis.
"If I don't make it, I have told Simitus that you will watch over my family and that provision has been set aside for both of you to do this. I hope that is alright."
"Of course." nodded Centurion Jose.
"Absolutely." agreed Optio Sabis. "Though we both hope that will not be necessary."
Lacitus nodded back. "Speaking to Brullus just there, I am more determined than ever to win!"
Lacitus stood up. "Come on. Help me get ready." The three men set off to his quarters, where Brullus already awaited, thinking of further choice remarks for his student, the gladiator fight fast approaching.

Chapter 10.
It seemed surreal to Lacitus as he stood in the middle of the Trimontium Amphitheatre, Murmillo Lacitus that he had now become. It felt like only moments ago that Brullus was screaming in his ear and walking him to the ring.
Opposite him, Hoplomachus stood. And so here it was. A proud Tribune versus a proud General. No longer of the Roman Army, but of the Gladiator Code. Instead, it was now Murmillo Lacitus facing Hoplomachus Tiscerus.
This was a private affair. No Roman soldiers from Trimontium Fort had been allowed to come to the Amphitheatre. Only Simitus and Andreah watched on, together with two observers from each side.
For Murmillo Lacitus, this was his trusted former comrades - Centurion Jose and Optio Sabis, who wore their full ceremonial uniform complete with facemasks and helmets.
For Hoplomachus Tiscerus, two of his trusted soldiers, similarly resplendent in their Roman Army finery.
All six watched on as the two Gladiators faced each other in the centre.
"This is it, Murmillo. My bid to be Emperor starts with your death. Just as you tried to kill me in the Corinium Amphitheatre crowd, it is my turn today to end our battle, the proper way. Your role in my reign is about to be written."
Murmillo stared back at Hoplomachus. "I don't have as fine words as you. I am here for the future of my family - of my brother Antallius and my nephew Julius. If I defeat you I will join in their success and hold Simitus to his word."
"So be it." Hoplomachus nodded. We each have our reasons to live or die here today. Are you ready to fight to the death, Murmillo?"
"I am ready, Hoplomachus."
Hoplomachus charged Murmillo, the small round shield thundering into Murmillo's large rectangular defence.
The impact went through Murmillo's arm and then through his body, as Hoplomachus disengaged, off to the side.
Hoplomachus grinned. "Plenty more where that came from, Murmillo!"
"We'll see!" Murmillo shouted back, his heartbeat pounding in his ears.
Murmillo thrusted with his short sword, which was met with Hoplomachus's small round shield. In an instant Hoplomachus thrusted back, more mobile than his Murmillo foe.
The sword cut through Murmillo's chest and he screamed out in pain. Blood streamed out and he made sure his arms and hands missed the flow, which would otherwise hinder his grip on his sword and shield.
Murmillo kicked his padded leg into Hoplomachus and with his full force carried on pushing with his large rectangular shield. Hoplomachus did not have much grip in his bare feet and crashed onto his side, onto the ground.
Murmillo carried on his attack, thrusting his sword towards Hoplomachus's bare arm, that held his small round shield. The stab caused Hoplomachus to release his small round shield and he rolled away before Murmillo could thrust again.
Hoplomachus got up, his arm having lost his shield. He picked up his spear and threw it at Murmillo. His throw was weakened by his injured arm and this meant that the spear's impact was easily dealt with by Murmillo's large rectangular shield.
Murmillo had the upper hand. Before he could prepare his next attack, which hopefully would be fatal, Hoplomachus was charging again. Hoplomachus slammed into Murmillo, slashing his sword up Murmillo's chest and upper shield arm. Murmillo screamed out in pain, unable to hold onto his shield any longer.
Hoplomachus turned back to face his opponent, his upward slash having caused Murmillo considerable pain. Hoplomachus's upward slash had been unconventional and unexpected, just as Brullus had warned.
Both Gladiators stood facing each other, each without their shields and each with their blooded injuries.
"Do you conceed, Murmillo? Let me spare your life!"
"I say the same to you, Hoplomachus! Conceed and spare your life!" But Murmillo did not believe this in his heart and Brullus saw this and lowered his head. He had seen too many fights to know what the truth of the battle was.
Hoplomachus charged again, Murmillo feeling exhausted and very immobile in his heavy helmet. Hoplomachus thrust his sword into Murmillo's faceguard and following through with the full weight of his body.
Murmillo's view of the sparks flashing in front of his eyes, followed by pain and collapse onto the ground with the force of Hoplomachus's weight.
The helmet kept Murmillo's head on the ground. He no longer had the strength to lift his head. Hoplomachus stood over him, his short sword ready to deliver the fatal thrust into Murmillo's chest.
Hoplomachus tensed his grip, Murmillo oblivious to his final few moments on this Earth.
"Wait!"
Hoplomachus waited. Centurion Jose stood in front of Murmillo's motionless body on the ground. "Remember how I saved your life Tiscerus, on the battlefield? Today I ask you to repay this!"
Hoplomachus breathed in pain, feeling the extent of his injuries, in his own heavy helmet. "If I don't finish this, how can I carry on with my bid as Emperor?"
"By not finishing it, you show mercy and clemency. A dignitas of an Emperor."
The mask of Hoplomachus was slipping. Tiscerus had no desire to kill Lacitus, no desire to kill a fellow Roman Army Officer. He turned his head to Simitus, seeing enough through his face shield to see Simitus's face. "Is this enough, Simitus?"
"If you have learned dignitas and treat the Roman Empire the same, enough."
General Tiscerus turned away and out of the Trimontium Amphitheatre, towards his two comrades, to have his wounds treated.
Brullus, Jose and Sabis helped Murmillo up and onto his feet.
Brullus addressed Murmillo. "Take off your helmet, Murmillo and become Tribune Lacitus again."
Lacitus did what he was told, a final instruction from Brullus, the man that had helped Lacitus to survive. "Thank you, Teacher."
Lacitus looked towards where Simitus and Andreah had been standing but they were already gone. Perhaps onto their next mission, to help secure the Roman Empire, in their own mysterious way.
Looking now towards Centurion Jose and Optio Sabis, Murmillo was no longer and Tribune Lacitus staggered into their arms, to have his wounds tended.
There was one wound though that Centurion Jose and Optio Sabis could not treat. This was the wound of worry for his brother - Centurion Antallius, whose physical and mental state was now forefront again in his mind.
Somehow he must get his brother back to the man he was before.

Chapter 11.
Centurion Antallius had just awoken. It was still very early and he hoped that the day ahead would be better than the previous months.
Since the fire at Balmuildy Fort, he had tortured himself for most of each day that he was awake. Sleep seemed to be the only time that his brain could rest. All of this was involuntary and for this initial time, there was nothing that anyone could do or say to bring him round. It had to come from himself and in his own time, when his health began to improve.
The mixture of physical pain from his burns and his mental anguish, left him unable to do anything but somehow he had to get out of this living nightmare.
It began by forcing himself to start back into some form of routine. Although physically exhausting, this was the only way and each morning he now left his bed at a reasonable time, dressed and ate his breakfast, away from his room.
Even although it was difficult in all regards, after breakfast Antallius would now go for a walk. At first he could only walk a short distance but as the days went on, he could walk for longer.
The routine was his only way out. After his walk, a time to eat and talk with others followed, after which he then read or went out walking with some company. A routine that kept Antallius out of his room and his bed until the day was over.
This could only be done at Antallius's own pace and he was grateful that the people around him allowed this. Little by little, Antallius was coming back to life.
The first few times that his brother Lacitus visited, Antallius could not talk much and he was still mentally and physically unable to leave his bed.
Instead Lacitus, although he wanted to talk and be with his brother, would then go and talk with Angelis and Nastin. Lacitus enjoyed their company, who had made him feel very welcome, as did the rest of this particular Scottish tribe.
Nastin - a Legionary - was good company for Lacitus when he visited. Nastin had fallen for Angelis at their chance encounters, whilst he was part of food foraging parties.
Their marriage forged an important alliance between the Romans and this Scottish tribe, with Angelis being from a noble family. Once Lacitus had found out about Nastin and Angelis (and Tribune Lacitus usually found out about everything in the end), it was Lacitus that allowed the marriage to happen, seeing this as a useful opportunity to strike such an allegiance.
It was also good for Nastin to talk with Lacitus, a fellow soldier. Nastin was granted permission by Lacitus to split his time between Angelis and the Roman Army.
Whilst with Angelis, Nastin was to learn about the various herbs and remedies that Angelis was skilled in and indeed some of these had helped in Antallius's recovery. Only someone like Tribune Lacitus, with his various connections, could have made this unusual arrangement possible.
With the sun promising a good day, Antallius and Lacitus set off on their walk. Antallius had learned to enjoy everything that was around him, taking in the beauty of nature and its animals.
Antallius heard the sound of cracking branches on the forest floor that he had become accustomed to and stopped, holding his hand out to inform Lacitus to stop and be quiet.
Before them stood the mighty stag, his antlers branched like the trees, his eyes as bright as the dew drops that caught the sunshine on the leaves.
Antallius and Lacitus stood still, barely breathing as they watched the stag in his habitat. Flaring his nostrils, the proud stag watched the two men closely, determining if they were a threat.
Seeing no danger, the stag turned his head away and made his way through the trees, moving effortlessly despite his size.
The two men breathed again.
Antallius turned to Lacitus. "Such a beautiful creature, but dangerous. I see that stag most mornings. Sometimes I have wished for the stag to charge me down."
Lacitus was shocked by his brother's admission. "You really have suffered, haven't you."
"I have. I wouldn't wish what I have been through on my worst enemy. There was nothing I could do at first and then somehow I had to make a big effort to put myself on the right track."
"You seem a lot better now."
"I am."
The two men began walking again, the clear, still morning beginning to heat the day. Ahead, as if a sign of the Roman Army itself, an eagle perched on a branch. Once more the two men stopped and stared.
The eagle was beautiful, the very image of strength and power. No wonder the eagle was a symbol of the Roman Empire, which was also beautiful, strong and powerful. Yet, just like the eagle that could be deadly in an instant, the same could be said of the Roman Empire, that could summon up its strength and power to kill his prey.
Antallius looked at the eagle and listened to its chirp. As the sight and sound drew Antallius in, Antallius knew what he must now do.
Antallius turned to his brother. "It is time I return to Balmuildy Fort."
"Are you sure you are well enough?"
"I am. My scars from the burns have healed to a great extent. Angelis's various herbs have been very effective."
"What about the mental scars?"
"I know that I am passed the worst. It was such a strange and terrifying experience. I was physically exhausted, there was nothing I could do, until it started to pass."
Antallius could sense that his brother was withholding something.
"What is it Lacitus? There is something you want to tell me. I can sense it."
Lacitus was uncomfortable, reticent in case his words caused his brother to regress and slip backwards into the mental and physical anguish Antallius had suffered since the fire.
"I told you all about my gladiator fight, my injuries and how all our lives may be changed for the better. But there was one thing I did not tell you, in case this caused you further upset."
"What is it? Tell me."
"There has been no sign of Jamis since the night of the attack. There is no body. Either he has fled or been kidnapped, we don't know which."
"No sign of him at all?"
"Nothing."
Antallius was stunned and feared this could cause a relapse to his improving health. "We must find him. He has been like a brother to us. All the duties he has done for us and for Rome. I don't think any of the negotiated peace deals with all the tribes so far would have succeeded without him. He is the link that ensures peace."
Lacitus nodded his agreement to his brother. "I know. I have my contacts seeking out any information on him at all. Are you still sure that you are well enough to return?"
"Yes. I am sure."
"Good. I look forward to seeing you and Nastin back at the Fort in a few days. Have a safe journey."
"And a safe journey to you, brother."

Chapter 12.
Nastin and Antallius dismounted when Balmuildy Fort came into view. No-one would ever think that the Fort had been under attack or damaged by fire, the Fort looked the same as when he first approached it. The difference was how much pain he had endured since then, both mentally and physically. Somehow with the help of others and his own efforts, he had made it back.
As the two prepared themselves for their return, Antallius watched the buzzards in the field. Today there were five of them spread out across the field, standing in their usual positions. Antallius had a wonder of nature and he always glanced over towards the field whenever he passed by, to see if they were there.
Antallius put on his facemask and helmet. He reflected that not only did this make an impressive sight during parades but that this must also be a frightening sight for any tribes to see. He considered that the Romans charging towards them in their silvered faces must look like people from another World.
Antallius then took out his Centurion vine stick. Ornately carved with its silvered top, Antallius rubbed his fingers over the silvered letter 'A'. The 'A' stood for Andronicus, the previous Centurion of Balmuildy Fort, who had died during peace negotiations while saving a Scottish noble from a knife attack. Antallius hoped he would always be as brave and noble as Centurion Andronicus.
With the final adjustments to their uniforms completed, Centurion Antallius and Legionary Nastin mounted their horses and prepared to set off for Balmuildy Fort.
"One moment before we go, Nastin. Let me reach back for my water bottle to wipe my hands."
Antallius reached back. "I don't see it. I must have dropped it. Unless it's .." Antallius didn't finish his sentence as an attacker was running straight for him. Had Antallius not been looking behind for the water bottle, he would have been dead by now.
As the attacker neared and with no time for Antallius to reach for his sword, Antallius dug in his heels and urged his horse into action, shouting to Nastin, "Move! Quick!" Nastin, seeing and hearing Antallius, instinctively did the same.
Antallius looked back and could see the thwarted attacker. In an instant, Antallius wheeled his horse around and drew his sword. At full speed, Antallius charged the attacker, striking his sword through the attacker's stomach.
Antallius turned his horse and watched the attacker who was now on his knees, holding his stomach, his blooded hands becoming evermore covered. The attacker looked up at Antallius.
Antallius spoke first. "Who are you?"
"You speak my language?"
"I do."
The attacker laughed. "If my wound wasn't serious, I would ask you to spare my life in return for telling you where your Negotiator Jamis is being held."
"Jamis? Tell me where he is!"
"That traitor! He's sold off too many of our people to you already. Losing our Kingdoms, our way of life. He had to be stopped before he made any more of these 'Peace' deals."
"Tell me where Jamis is and you will live!"
The attacker looked down at his hands, saturated with dark, clotted blood, in an unending stream of blood. "I don't think so! I'm done!" The attacker collapsed and was still, leaving this World with no answer for Antallius.
Nastin had doubled back and rode up to Antallius's side. "Who was that, Sir?"
Antallius looked at Nastin and then back to the attacker who was lying dead on the ground, a pool of dark red blood growing ever greater. "What a waste of a life. What did you say, Nastin?"
"Who was he, Sir?"
"Tabris. His name was Tabris. He was Jamis's brother."
Antallius wheeled his horse round again and rode off, soon followed by Nastin.

Chapter 13.
The Legionary on the palisade, shouted below. "Officer and Nastin approaching. Open the gates!"
Antallius watched in awe as the large gates opened inwards and the two went through, bringing their horses down to a walk.
To his astonishment, most of the soldiers were lined up, with Optio Scrivinus and Tribune Lacitus to the front.
Tribune Lacitus nodded to Optio Scrivinus, who then saluted. "The men wanted to be at attention on your arrival, Sir!"
"Thank you, Optio Scrivinus. Thank you, everyone. I am genuinely honoured that you have done this for me. It is good to be back."
Optio Scrivinus was pleased to see his young Centurion back. "It is good to have you back, Sir!"
"Thank you, Optio. On my command, please dismiss the men to return to Fort duties. Nastin, go and get something to eat, I will join you later."
"Yes, Sir!"
"You may dismiss the Legionaries, Optio!"
"Legionaries, stand at ease! Legionaries, dismissed!"
As the men marched away, Antallius turned to his brother. Tribune Lacitus spoke first. "It is good to have you back, Antallius."
"It is good to be back, Lacitus. I didn't think I would ever be back here again."
The two men entered Lacitus's quarters where they could speak privately. Legionary Castus watched the two men closing the door behind them.
Antallius took off his facemask and helmet. "Just before reaching the Fort, I was attacked by a lone enemy. He is lying dead on the track. Could you arrange for him to be seen to, please?"
"Of course. Who was he?"
"It was Jamis's brother."
Tribune Lacitus closed his lips and sighed. "I have news about Jamis from one of my contacts.
"What is it? We must get him back before our time here is done."
Tribune Lacitus sat down and beckoned Centurion Antallius to do the same. Antallius waited nervously, waiting for his brother to speak.
"Antallius ... Jamis has been kidnapped. It would appear that all the Peace Negotiations he has arranged have not gone unnoticed, by this particular tribe. They specifically want him dead."
Tribune Lacitus paused, he had not finished. "And specifically, they want you dead, too, no matter what the cost."
Centurion Antallius looked downwards for a moment. It had been too good to be true to think that himself and all the family would be heading back to Rome for a life of luxury and privilege at the behest of Simitus.
Centurion Antallius raised his head again and looked directly at his brother. "Then it would appear brother Lacitus, that our work here is not yet done."
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Novella 6 to follow!