The Antonine Romans and The Journey's End?

The Antonine Romans and The Journey's End?

By

Andrew Boyce

Description:

Novella 9.
Princess Coral of the Cornovii Tribe has been killed whilst in the care of Tribune Lacitus at Deva Roman Fort. The uneasy peace between the Cornovii and the Romans is therefore under threat. Can Tribune Lacitus prevent a new war? If he can, he will be able to take up his new post in Rome and leave dangerous Britannia behind.

Chapter 1.
Tribune Lacitus lay on his bed in his quarters. He closed his eyes trying to keep the daylight away. All he wanted to do was sleep, to block the pain. It was not the physical pain of his wounded neck but the mental pain of what had caused it.
It should have been one of the happiest days of his life - Princess Coral being welcomed into the heart of Deva Fort, signifying a new peace between The Romans and The Cornovii. Instead she attacked his neck and after being struck down by a Roman soldier, she endured a long, painful death.
Tribune Lacitus turned around in his bed. It was no good. There was no more sleep to be had, no more blocking out the light, the covers making him uncomfortably hot.
Matters had fallen apart for Tribune Lacitus in the past. He did not like to recall these occasions, each one resulting in such mental pain, that death at the time could have seemed kinder.
An image of himself as the Second In Command of a Quinquereme Warship Ship entered his mind - it seemed so long ago now. He had been good in his role, able to navigate the seas and fight as good as any of the hundreds of men alongside him. He had been proud to wear the blue of the Marines. That was until the involuntary shutdown of his mind and body. But this time seemed different.
Lacitus looked at the wash bowl and shaving materials that had been left just inside the door. Each day it had been removed unused, replaced fresh each day the following morning. This time it would be used. It was time to turn Lacitus into Tribune Lacitus again, the return of the clean shaven, immaculate Officer that his men knew, respected and served.

Chapter 2.
Marenus held himself straight as he entered the Quarters of Tribune Lacitus. The long suffering Secretary, he had spent what seemed a lifetime looking after Lacitus and his varied correspondence - personal, professional and business.
"Ah, come in, Marenus!"
Marenus was pleased to see that Tribune Lacitus was now clean shaven again. A bearded face may well suit the Emperors, but he had always known Lacitus for his clean cut well kept face, ready each day to perform the Army life.
Marenus shrugged the rain off his uniform. "How come we always end up in a rain soaked country, Tribune? Can we not make our way back to Rome?"
Tribune Lacitus thought of the Orders he had received from the Emperor, brought to him by Andreah, who now resided in the Fort during this siege. Andreah, with her Superior - Simitus, were spiritual people of Mithraism in Londinium, with direct links to the Emperor. And so he and his brother did indeed now have new positions awaiting in Rome once Deva Fort was secured and he would take Marenus with him.
"All in good time, Marenus. All in good time. This country has good people and good resources. Keeps the economies running, pays our wages and the food we eat." Lacitus saw an opportunity to tease his Secretary. "Including paying for your breakfast, some of which still remains on your tunic, Marenus!"
"Sorry about that, Sir! I couldn't quite get the stain out. But I don't know if the Army outside our Gates are good people. They would want us dead."
"Not necessarily, Marenus. They know their Princess Coral has died. I need you to write the best letter you have ever written in your life, to describe to King Annan the circumstances of his daughter's death and persuade him why peace must prevail."
"Yes, Sir!"
Tribune Lacitus looked deadly serious. "It is a long time since you picked up a sword in battle, Marenus. But using your pen skillfully now is far greater than all the swords in our Fort."
Marenus smiled and almost laughed. "You make it sound that I could single handedly solidify this uneasy peace and be rewarded with a lifetime of luxury in Rome."
"Well, Marenus, as strange as this may sound, you are actually right. Secure this peace and I am promised a role in Rome. And you and my brother Centurion Antallius will be coming with me!"
Marenus thought of his wife and children in their home in Rome. He had promised his wife that he would return, that their tears would prove to be needless. That had been many years ago and as he now picked up his pen, he began his attempt to fulfill his promise.

Chapter 3.
Barrix stood still looking down on Deva For, Dawn just about overt. He held the letter he had received from Tribune Lacitus and thought of his reply that he had sent back.
Yes, the letter from Tribune Lacitus had been for his brother King Tannan who was many miles from Deva Fort, but as his representative nearby to oversee Coral's peace visit to Deva Fort, he felt justified in taking ownership of the situation.
He had no desire to restart a war with the Romans. Instead Coral's death must be avenged by Tribune Lacitus. He would take Tribune Lacitus to his brother King Tannan and there, they would both find out exactly what happened to Coral and what should be done thereafter, whether this should be clemency to the Tribune or a worsening of Roman relations.
Barrix thought of the letter he had sent back to Tribune Lacitus. The letter described the manner of how Coral's body was to be returned to the Cornovii. Principally this was for Coral to be respectfully laid out on a decorated cart powered by Tribune Lacitus and three other men in full Uniform, to the nearby Cornovii encampment. This was to be done at Dawn, within a few days. As well as returning Coral, this would bring Tribune Lacitus directly to Barrix.
Barrix tightened his grip on the letter from Tribune Lacitus informing of the tragic death of Coral. He thought of his secret - one that only three people in this World would have known.
This was that Barrix was not the devoted Uncle of Coral. He was in fact Coral's father. Looking down on Deva Fort now, he wished that Coral had known. Instead only himself, King Tannan and King Tannan's wife Marill had known. There had been a terrible fallout and a genuine reconciliation, with all three agreeing to keep this secret. Now only King Tannan and Barrix remained. Marill would be reunited with Coral.
Barrix decided to turn, Dawn had come and gone, another day to wait for Coral's cart to appear. He took one last careful look and it was then he saw the procession appear in the distance.
His eyes were fixed on the cart as his heart sank. His beloved Coral making her way towards him. Next he looked at who was accompanying the cart - three unknown soldiers and at the front Tribune Lacitus.
He stared at Tribune Lacitus, wanting to confirm that it was him. As the procession neared he was indeed certain it was him. Taking one final look at the cart, Barrix turned away. He had told his deputy - Martinn, exactly what to do.

Chapter 4.
Martinn watched the procession near and it was not long before it had halted in front of him. This all felt surreal but Martinn knew what he had to do and say.
"Greetings, Tribune Lacitus. And your men. I am Martinn and I am speaking on behalf of King Tannan and his brother, Barrix."
"Greetings, Martinn." Tribune Lacitus decided to put diplomacy aside. "Are King Tannan and Barrix here?"
"Barrix will see you soon and you will be proceeding with him and King Tannan for Coral's funeral."
Martinn took a moment to compose himself. So far so good.
"For your three men, after some rest and some food, Barrix has requested that they are to return to Deva Fort.
Martinn opened a sack by his feet.
"I have three swords with the colours of King Tannan attached. Your men will be safe to travel. Our regional Commanders have been informed, including those near Deva Fort."
Lacitus considered the situation. He didn't feel that he had much choice in the matter. The situation was perilous enough without him being the spark that could ignite a war.
"Very well. As long as you can give me your word that my men will not be harmed, then I will proceed."
Martinn tried not to show his relief. Perhaps he could have a high role in his tribe if he could navigate these situations with such success and ease.
Martinn spoke clearly. "You have my word."

Chapter 5.
Centurion Antallius took a sip of the wine. Being preoccupied with worry, it tasted of nothing special, even although Demius The Trader had promised it was one of the finest available.
He looked at his two guests - Andreah and Marenus. Could they help him get his brother Lacitus back and then onward to Rome? And less personally, could they help save the life of Lacitus and hence stop the wrath of the Roman Army re-starting the conflict with this Cornovii Tribe, causing the death and injury to many? He took another sip, still no better.
"So on this table I have the three swords draped in the colours of King Tannan. It brought our three soldiers back safely. They may have been taunted, jeered and shoved, but they made it back."
Antallius paused, trying to gauge if his two companions were listening intently. He judged that they were.
"I am going to take this first sword and find my brother. Who should I give the second and third swords to?"
Andreah nodded. "I will take this second sword. I can fight as well as any man and I can talk as well as any man. My mind is as sharp as anyone and I think sharper than many. I could make the difference to get your brother back."
"Likewise!' spoke Marenus suddenly. "I will take the third sword. I have spent a lifetime negotiating. My battles may have been mainly written ones but I have not lost one yet. And I have kept myself fit and fight as well as anyone."
Marenus paused, wondering if he was winning his case. Time to land the killing blow.
"Lacitus gave me his word that I would return with him to Rome and Tribunes, especially Tribune Lacitus, always keep their word. Something to do with being from the Equestrian class, I believe. The three of us can do this. I promised my wife I would return to Rome and I want to fulfill my promise to her."
Surely this was enough to win the argument, thought Marenus.
Antallius took another sip of wine. Actually, thought Antallius much to his surprise, this wine was really quite fine. Demius The Trader was right enough.
Antallius put the glass down. "Thank you, my friends. We will leave tomorrow."


Chapter 6.
The rain was relentless. The stream of rain ran down Barrix's face and down onto chest, which was now soaked through. He no longer wiped the rain from his eyes.
Barrix clenched his left hand more firmly round the right handle of the cart, as they began another incline. To his left, his brother King Tannan most probably tightened his right hand grip too, on the left handle of the cart. Behind them Tribune Lacitus pushed from behind, more so on any incline.
The slope intensified, as did the rain. Barrix thought of letting his grip go and the cart would then trample Tribune Lacitus to death. He imagined himself falling in a pretence and then hearing the screams from Tribune Lacitus behind as the cart trampled over him.
But this was the funeral cart of his daughter and he tightened his grip on the handle - there was no way that he would let go of this handle.
Barely moving his head, Barrix looked at his brother. Battling through the rain, the King was just as wet as Barrix, just as exhausted as Barrix. For someone that had all the wealth and comforts that anyone could dream of, he suffered just the same.
The King had seen the death of his wife and the death of Coral that he had brought up as his own. In the end, thought Barrix, all men were equal, with their grief and pain to endure.
Barrix looked forward and through his drenched eyes saw the top of the hill. He could feel the pushing from Tribune Lacitus behind the cart - he too would be in all kinds of physical and mental pain.
But one thing was not shared between the three men - hatred. Only Barrix felt a betrayal in his heart and an anger in his chest. Only Barrix had lost his mind to an involuntary pain. He wished he could be the man he was before, but this seemed to be slipping away like his feet in the mud.
As the cart reached the top of the slope, Barrix knew more clearly than ever how this should end - Tribune Lacitus must face justice for the death of his daughter. Once Coral was buried, justice must be done, thought Barrix. He did not know exactly how, but Barrix vowed that Tribune Lacitus did not have long in this world.

Chapter 7.
The journey so far for Antallius, Marenus and Andreah had been fairly uneventful, largely because they were travelling through countryside with few inhabitants. When they left the safety of Deva Fort, there had been taunts and scuffles from the local Cornovii Tribe, but it had fallen short of stopping their journey when they stared at the protective colours of King Tannan trailing from their swords around their waists.
When the three had reached the main encampment of the Tribe, the jeers, taunts and threats began again, as men barged into their horses, hoping to force a reaction that would lead to a fight.
They had been met by a youth named Martinn, who seemed to be sensible beyond his years. It seemed he appreciated the severity of re-starting the war with the Romans and that this should be avoided if at all possible. The three Romans had persuaded Martinn that the isolated Tribune Lacitus would likely be killed and a new war between the Cornovii and the Romans would begin.They argued with conviction that their presence could be enough to persuade the Cornovii to spare Lacitus and avert war.
And so riding along with his two companions, Centurion Antallius had hope in his heart, a hope that was growing - until their way ahead was blocked.
"Dismount."
The order was almost spoken but loud enough for the three to hear. Antallius stared at the man on horseback that had given the command and then also looked at the man's two companions on either side.
Antallius nodded gently. "We will dismount." All three dismounted.
Antallius addressed the man. "We will give you some money, a gesture of our goodwill. We are heading towards Princess Coral's funeral. These are our colours of protection from King Tannan."
The man spoke directly back to Antallius without any delay and in the same, calm voice. "As you will be aware, it is very isolated here. Not many pass this way at all. Sadly for you, all three of you will not pass either. We will try to make your end as quick as possible."
Antallius wanted to speak as calmly back to the man, his thoughts with his two companions Andreah and Marenus and with his brother Lacitus somewhere beyond these three criminals.
"It does not need to come to this. I give you one chance to take some of our money and let us pass."
The man was not to be persuaded. "No. It cannot be." He nodded to his two fellow criminals and they all dismounted.
Antallius looked directly at the man. "I give you one final chance. All three of us are skilled with our swords, the finest you will ever had come across."
"I have heard this all before. I am not persuaded. Who wishes to fight first?"
Andreah unsheathed her sword and walked forwards. The man prepared his sword and took his steps forward. Within moments the two engaged. The two swords clashed and with a skillful flick of her wrist, the man's arm turned and his sword fell to the ground. The man would have been unaware that Andreah came from a wealthy family where sword craft was taught from a very young age.
The second man moved forward and lashed at Marenus. The two swords engaged and were locked together, neither man giving way. The two swords remained locked together, the attacker with a determined scowl. Suddenly Marenus punched the attacker in his face, the attacker falling backwards into a bush dropping his sword to hold his broken nose that was streaming with blood.
Marenus joked to Antallius. "As you know, I'm not from the Equestrian class. Sadly I learned that move in the back streets of Rome. - gambling debts I'm afraid!" Antallius raised his eyebrows in surprise, seen by Marenus. "I've none now, of course, Sir."
"Glad to hear it." Antallius spoke to the leader. "Please do us the courtesy of my original offer. Let us pass in return for some money. We mean you no harm. If it helps your decision, I would give you a difficult fight as I picked up a sword the same time I began to write!"
The leader looked at his two companions - one still trying to get up whilst holding his bloodied nose, the other standing sheepishly after his short account of himself. "I'll accept your offer."
Antallius was relieved but did not show it. Only he knew that unlike his brother Lacitus who excelled at the sword, it was books and writing that Antallius took to in childhood, while his sword gathered dust in his room. And if he wasn't writing, Antallius was at the market or in the kitchen, concocting new recipes. Indeed Antallius dreamed of writing down the recipes and putting them all in a book, which he was going to call "Cook Book".
"Thank you." said a relieved Antallius, who was sure not to show even a pinch of fear. "And if we meet again, please look favourably upon us."
The leader was pleased with the result, after all, he was about to receive some silver and gold without too much effort. "Agreed. My name is Pega and you have my word."
Antallius thought of the man's unusual name and tried not to show any difference. All he wanted to do now was to get on his way.

Chapter 8.
Lacitus stared into the fire, not directly as he feared it could hurt his eyes, but enough to give him a distraction to look at. It had been a long day and the warmth, light and dancing flames from this campfire was welcome.
The funeral of Princess Coral had gone as well as expected and his tiredness had almost brought upon sleep in front of the roaring reds and yellows.
He had been told by King Tannan that this place was called Glaslyn, which meant Blue Lake and was a sacred place befitting for Princess Coral. Although Lacitus hadn't understood all that Tannan had said, there had been mention of "The Other World" or "Alwyn", highlighting the importance of this site.
Lacitus sat alone. Further round the fire sat Barrix. King Tannan was in a tent resting and was to rejoin them later. Further away in another tent, Antallius, Andreah and Marenus were preparing to join them. Lacitus could not believe when they had appeared at the camp and they had been allowed to stay for this most saddest of ceremonies.
Lacitus saw a figure moving through the fire. It was Barrix and within moments Barrix was standing by Lacitus, hauling him up by the scruff of nis neck. Barrix thrust a sword to Lacitus's chest that Lacitus instinctively grabbed hold of, before Barrix backed off. The two men now stood apart, each with a sword.
Barrix addressed Lacitus. "Fight!"
Lacitus was unsure what to say. "No!"
Barrix was quick to reply. "If it wasn't for you, Coral would still be alive! My brother is not going to do anything about that, but I will! Prepare to die, Lacitus!"
Barrix charged and it was all that Lacitus could do was to meet Barrix's sword. Barrix lunged back and then charged again. Again, Lacitus barely held back Barrix's sword, the two swords clashing, with Lacitus in fear of Barrix's crazed eyes and teeth that caught the light of the fire.
Out of nowhere, Barrix's sword slashed into Lacitus's forearm. The pain was an instant heat that burned through his arm like a fire. Lacitus held off another sword blow, the sparks lighting up Barrix's eyes.
"Stop!" The shout came from behind Lacitus, the deep breaths of someone running towards him.
"Stop!" Lacitus struggled to keep consciousness, the burning taking over his whole arm and into his chest. As his eyes dimmed the last image he saw was Barrix throwing down his sword as Tannan barged into his brother.

Chapter 9.
Andreah tried to get to sleep. The last few days had been amongst the most difficult in her life. An arduous journey had seen her and her two companions travel across difficult terrain and fight for their lives. There had been all the emotions of Princess Coral's funeral and the tending to Tribune Lacitus's wounds from Barrix, that could have ended his life.
Looking at her two tent companions of Centurion Antallius and Secretary Marenus as they slept, Andreah wondered if their Orders to return to Rome for Tribune Lacitus's new post would ever be fulfilled.
Andreah found that she could not answer this question. Perhaps it was the loud snoring of Marenus, or his occasional release of air from his other end, that was stopping her from thinking clearly.
Then, her special gift happened again. Her heightened senses when something was wrong, the gift that had brought her to the attention of The Emperor.
Andreah sat up and spoke out loud. "Blue Lake! Water's edge!"
Antallius awoke, sleepily rubbing his eyes. "What? What was that?"
Andreah started to get out of bed. "Blue Lake! Water's edge!"
Marenus awoke, looking at his two companions who were getting up. "Sorry, have l been snoring again?" Marenus got up and involuntarily let off another release of gas. "Sorry. The food of these locals is reeking havoc with my stomach!"
Antallius looked sympathetically at his companion. If he didn't think so highly of Marenus, he would have said out loud what he was thinking: reeking being the operative word, of a loud blast of reeking smell!
Marenus and Antallius chased after Andreah as she ran along the path towards the Blue Lake. In the early dawn, the light seemed mystical and strange in this other-worldly place. Marenus and Antallius had to use all their speed to try catch up, their thighs burning with effort.
Andreah kept running and waded in to the water's edge.
"Andreah!" shouted Antallius. "What are you doing?"
Antallius and Marenus reached the water, their feet hitting the cold water. They looked ahead and could see Andreah in the distance, still swimming outwards.
Antallius squinted his eyes and could not believe what he saw. "My Jupiter! There is someone else out there!"
"What!" Marenus was now wide awake, as they both stared outwards. Both men started swimming out to Andreah who had now turned back towards the shore, supporting a man as she swam.
Andreah reached Antallius and Marenus and they continued towards the shore, all in disbelief. Somehow they all got out of the water and carefully rested the man down on the shore. As all three tried to get their breath back they looked at the unresponsive man below them.
In the unreal light they could see that the man was Barrix. No longer the crazed man that had to be held back from attacking Lacitus. Instead a still man with an almost childlike face, his worries removed.
Andreah slumped down to her knees and started blowing into Barrix's mouth. What was she doing? Surely the man was dead to this world, thought Antallius. Leave the man alone and let him pass into the next world, thought Marenus.
Antallius began to step forward when suddenly Andreah began pumping at Barrix's chest. Antallius was startled. What was going on? Andreah then switched to blowing into Barrix's mouth again. I will need to step in, thought Antallius.
Barrix burst into life, coughing and spluttering. Antallius and Marenus stepped back, unsure at what they had just seen. Andreah slumped onto the ground. Yes, she thought, these last few days have been the most difficult in my life.

Chapter 10.
Sometimes Tribune Lacitus felt light in the saddle but today the weight of leadership was weighing him down. He glanced at his riding companions - his brother Centurion Antallius, his Secretary Marenus and Special Envoy Andreah and although far from Rome, he hoped this would be the start of the homeward journey.
Lacitus pictured King Tannan in his mind. This morning they had waved their goodbyes, with both men parting on good terms. King Tannan had given his word that the siege on Deva would be lifted and he was preparing to reunite with his Cornovii Tribe, now that Princess Coral's funeral had passed. Lacitus on his part would provide a full account of an expected future improvement in relations at the next Roman Fort, to be sent onwards to Londinium and Deva.
Lacitus then pictured Barrix. Lacitus found that he had no ill will for Barrix even although Barrix had almost killed him in the frenzied sword attack at the campfire. Tannan had assured Lacitus that Barrix would be well cared for and brought back to health.
Although sad to leave Deva behind, Lacitus was pleased to have secured peace and ready for his new appointment in Rome. His mind began to drift to thoughts of Rome and for some unknown reason a memory with his brother Antallius came to mind. He remembered walking through the markets with Antallius who had a great skill of finding the most tastiest, fresh food that he would put together and then eat at the side of the roads watching the world go by. Was this the happy life they would return to?
Sadly Lacitus's thoughts were interrupted. He had become increasingly aware that the horses were struggling. Loud coughs filled the air as one after another the horses made more noises and gained less ground.
Lacitus looked to his companions. "We will have to slow right down. Our horses are struggling. They have taken unwell. I've never been cruel to an animal yet and I have no intention of starting otherwise."
The group slowed but to make matters worse they would have been forced to soon enough as Antallius's heart sank at the sight ahead - a familiar trio of swordsmen.
"It is Pega and his two nasties." announced Antallius with a heavy heart.
The group came to a halt and dismounted with a sly smile from Pega.
"So we meet again, Antallius, Andreah and Marenus. And who is your companion?"
"My brother, Lacitus. Do you remember your word if we should meet again?"
"Sadly I do. I may be many things but one thing about me is that I always keep my word!"
Pega stopped talking abruptly when he heard the horses coughing. He looked genuinely concerned. "Your horses are unwell."
"Yes, they seem to be getting worse all of a sudden."
Lacitus decided to speak. "Pega is an unusual name. Is it after Pegasus, the Greek horse, may I ask?"
"It is, 'Tribune' Lacitus. I am a follower of Epona, the Protector of Horses." In almost a confessional manner, Pega continued. "It is something that makes sense to me compared to the rest of my life. In this regard and keeping to my word, you can take our horses and I will take care of yours."
"Thank you, Pega. You clearly know who I am, that I am Tribune Lacitus. I have an offer for you and your two companions. We need men to care for our horses, prepare them and see to them. You will also be paid well, build a life for yourselves."
Lacitus paused, trying to gauge Pega's mood. "The siege of Deva is now over. Return my horses when they are well and join us in the care of our horses. I will send word that you will be arriving."
"Thank you, Tribune." Pega looked at his two companions and then he continued, "We accept your offer."
Lacitus looked at Pega's two companions - their expressionless faces seemed to have soured. Lacitus was right as the older of the two spoke up.
"Well this is all very nice, isn't it? Well my brother and I escaped from the Roman Army long ago and we have no intention of going back! A Tribune doesn't travel light! Prepare to die!"
The brothers launched into a terrifying frenzy of swords, striking Pega a swift blow to the stomach. Lacitus was fast to react, his years of training paying off, deflecting the next blow and inflicting a fatal thrust. The second brother swiped in, his teeth blazing in the sunlight. Lacitus stepped back, missing the attack, before stepping forward to slash his sword vertically downwards, slicing through the man's chest. In shock the man looked down before collapsing back and down.
Lacitus looked towards Pega. His wound was deep and any blow to the stomach could prove fatal.
"We will not leave you behind Pega. You will be able to come with us!" Lacitus was sure that Andreah would be able to save Pega.
Blood seeped through the hand that Pega held to his stomach. "My home is just through there. Perhaps you could attend to me and the horses and we can all leave in the morning?"
"That sounds fine." Lacitus looked to his companions who nodded their approval. Lacitus approached his horse, unclipping his shovel from its fixings. He would have some physical work to do before sampling his brother's food once more, although Lacitus didn't expect it to taste as good as those innocent roadside snacks of their youth. Instead it would be sustenance until they could reach safety of the Roman Fort.

Chapter 11.
Even although it was at night, the Port was still bustling. Perhaps it was like this all the time. Trade was a very serious business and had happened long before the Military had got involved. As a result the Port was doubly busy.
Tribune Lacitus could barely believe that he was about to board a ship that would take him over the water and another step closer to Rome. Accompanying him were his brother Centurion Antallius, his Secretary Marenus and Special Envoy Andreah who had important documents for The Emperor.
Certainly the group cut quite the part. The men were dressed in their finest Roman attire, their helmets standing out, with flashes of colour for the Tribune and Centurion. Even Marenus was smart, looking like a distinguished older fellow.
Andreah had also made the effort for this journey. Anyone looking on would have considered Andreah to be the wife of one of these fine soldiers, or a lady linked in some way to the Roman army to merit such dignified companions.
Antallius looked around at the sights and sounds. As was his way, he was always fascinated with food, his favourite place in the world being Rome's food markets. Already he had spotted where the various food products were being sold from.
"If it is alright Lacitus, shall myself and Andreah find us some food for the journey?"
Lacitus nodded. "Yes. Don't be too long though. We'll be boarding soon as the Captain wants to take advantage of the calm water when he can."
"Fair enough. We'll be back soon." With that, the two disappeared into the crowd, Lacitus watching his brother pointing out to Andreah the various stalls that he wanted to explore.
Once Antallius was out of sight, Lacitus and Marenus sat down and hoped to relax. A little rest before Antallius and Andreah got back seemed a good idea before they all got on board.
Lacitus nodded to another well dressed Roman soldier who was accompanied by a well dressed lady. He imagined that this was their farewell to this country and military life. Perhaps his twenty-five years had passed and retirement beckoned.
Perhaps they were on their way to their new plot of land south of Rome, to be the wealthy farm owners for the rest of their lives. Maybe they would be producing fine wines or grains. These thoughts of food reminded Lacitus of his brother.
"Where have those two got to? I think we better go and try find them. We don't want to miss the departure."
Lacitus and Marenus got up and started to make their way back into the throng of people. He squeezed his way past a youth who seemed to glower as their shoulders glanced.
Lacitus was glad when the youth had passed by. Lacitus looked towards a stall in the distance with Antallius and Andreah sampling some snacks. Suddenly his vision went black.

Chapter 12.
The youth bashed his bit of wood into the back of Lacitus's neck, trying to hit the area between the edge of his helmet and the start of his tunic.
The full force had not struck exactly and his arm juddered as some of his blow caught the helmet edge. The Officer fell forwards, perhaps he had done enough to kill him.
The youth had planned this to be his final act, revenge for the killing of his older brothers that had fought so bravely against the invading Romans.
The youth stooped, turning the knocked out Lacitus over onto his front. Lacitus's eyes filled with the vision of the youth over him, his dagger ready to do its work.
The youth sneered at Lacitus. "This is for my brothers and the Cornovii!". The knife hand went back slowly and Lacitus knew that the follow through would be fast and the end quick. He would watch it to the end.
A boot flew through from his left taking the youth out of his view. A thud as the youth hit the ground to the right and a blur of a man lashing his boot over the youth several times, an attack to result in an unresponsive heap.
A crowd had developed and Lacitus watched their faces as they changed their gaze back and forward from Lacitus to the youth.
Shouts in the crowd became steadily closer, being the Port soldiers as they barged their way through. The youth was taken away, manhandled roughly by both arms, his legs dangling downwards, occasionally dragging along the ground.
Once the youth was out of sight the crowd's attention returned to Lacitus. Marenus stood over him standing guard over his Superior. Marenus's boots were all bloodied and dirty and his feet were badly cut.
Lacitus propped himself upwards to a seated position.
"Thank you, Marenus. I owe you my life. I am in your debt and I will not forget. You have my word."
"No problem, Sir. Let's get onto the ship. If there's one thing I hate is hanging about the Port. I prefer to get on the ship and get it over with. The sooner we go, the sooner we get back on land! And then I'll never go on a ship again for the rest of my life!"

Chapter 13.
The ship seemed to be in good order, thought Lacitus. His companions seemed comfortable on board, all except Marenus who seemed to be quite unsure about his balance, often putting his arms out unexpectedly or awkwardly bending his knees from time to time. At one point, Marenus grabbed Lacitus's arm when he felt that he was going to fall.
"Sorry, Sir. I've never been good on water. I can still remember the journey to this country." Marenus leaned in close to Lacitus. "Sick as a dog I was. Sick as a dog. I don't know where it all came from, I'm sure I hadn't eaten that much beforehand."
Lacitus moved a little away. "Yes, well the water seems quite still this evening. I don't think you should have the same problem."
Marenus moved in closer again. "You don't know my stomach, Sir."
"No."
"Or my bowels!"
Lacitus was quick to change the subject. "Are you alright, Andreah and Antallius?"
Lacitus politely nodded at their responses and the three made themselves as comfortable as possible, as their ship set sail.
Lacitus wanted to stay awake for the journey as the sailing reminded him of happy days when he served with the Marines. He watched some of the crew dash around, the last bit of light catching their blue uniforms. Where would he be now if he hadn't left when he was Second In Command of the respected Quinquereme that was once his home?
He looked around. Most of the passengers were sleeping, new destinations for the Army lads awaiting. A few traders travelling light, or so they would like you to believe. A few families, perhaps retirement beckoned for them. Then there were his companions - his brother snoring away, Marenus clutching his stomach and Andreah clutching her Documents bag. Who knows what Reports it contained or whether the information was trivial or not? Lacitus let his eyes close and he began to drift in and out of awareness.
Across the way, the Commander nodded to his Second In Command.
"All seems fine, Sir."
"Very good." The Commander sighed.
"Anything wrong, Sir?"
The Commander pursed his lips and shook his head looking at the Army sprawled around the deck. "Poor lads."
"What do you mean?"
"They think they are away to their new destinations, or homeward bound in retirement."
"And are they not, Sir?"
The Commander shook his head. "No. I've got Orders to divert - very shortly. Someone on board is a traitor, but they are not exactly sure who. We've to divert to the small island. Soldiers waiting at the shore will take them all to Brading Roman Villa. The torturer will have a busy day, that's all I know."
"Poor lads indeed, Sir. Poor lads indeed."
Lacitus watched the Second In Command talk to The Commander. Ah yes, they were fine days, thought Lacitus, navigating the World. Suddenly he felt the ship changing direction, an unexpected shift that seemed out of place for where they were.
Almost sleeping, his eyes closing, Lacitus wondered where they were going now. Losing consciousness to sleep, Lacitus smiled to himself as the ship whirled around. Maybe this country isn't finished with me yet, thought Lacitus. Lacitus laughed again as he dreamed. Wouldn't that be just typical? A Tribune never gets any peace!

Chapter 14.
Lacitus sighed and looked around the tent that he and his travelling companions Antallius, Andreah and Marenus had been placed in. He had protested strongly to the ship's Commander after his Second In Command had read out the new Orders announcing the change of destination. But his protestations had been of no use, the armed Marines providing a strong enough deterrent to anything more than begrudging moans and groans.
He had also tried his best to persuade the soldiers at the shore to allow the ship to be re-boarded and for the matter to be dealt with at the originally intended destination. Once more his requests were refused. It seemed that not even his position of Tribune could persuade the most junior of Legionaries to turn them around.
The shore Centurion was not a man to be persuaded otherwise either. Lacitus had remembered him from the past - Centurion Massimo and if ever a man's name fitted his description, this was indeed one of these times.
If Centurion Massimo was still in the same Legion, then Lacitus looked forward to seeing Legate Trento, who would surely sort out this mess and get Tribune Lacitus on his way promptly without any further delay.
Lacitus sighed again. He was fed up of this tent and being stuck here in the middle of the night.
The flap opened and Centurion Massimo entered. "Sir, I have orders from Legate Trento to bring Andreah to the main building."
Tribune Lacitus was frustrated beyond belief. "Centurion Trento, I would like to see Legate Trento just now, please."
"I have orders for Andreah only at this stage, Sir. Legate Trento will send for you at the appropriate time, he told me this himself, Sir."
"I see." Lacitus knew that once again his protestations were of no use, something that had been happening all night.
Andreah nodded to Lacitus and the others as she followed Centurion Massimo out of the tent, her Documents bag catching the moonlight as she walked away.

Chapter 15.
Legate Trento finished writing and after a few moments looked up and smiled at the seated Andreah. So far their meeting had been one of pleasantries, compliments and small talk of the weather.
Andreah had met Trento before at an important Dinner and he had seemed the perfect gentleman, charming and well mannered. However Andreah knew that he would not be in such a high position of Legate by chance and that behind the polished surface lay a determination and strong will.
Trento opened Andreah's Document bag and smiled reassuringly at Andreah one more. "And just for the record Andreah, just to keep my work right, can you promise me that you have not read what is inside this Document bag?"
"That is correct, Sir."
"Of course. I am sorry that I even have to ask that, but you know that I have to, as routine."
"Yes, Sir. Absolutely."
Trento looked at the name on the document. He recognised it and could hardly believe that this man could be a traitor. Surely not. He had seemed like quite an ordinary, decent fellow. Marenus. What a terrible shame.
"Thank you so much, Andreah. You are so very understanding. It has been a pleasure to see you again. Centurion Massimo will see you back to your tent at this terrible late time of night and then I can have some quick words with Tribune Lacitus."
Legate Trento stood up and bowed to Andreah. The meeting was over, though Trento's evening still had some hours to go. His thoughts had already turned to the Torturer in the next room.

Chapter 16.
Legate Trento sat at his desk staring intently at his old friend, as they sipped the blood red wine.
"I have some bad news, Lacitus. The traitor turned out to be your Secretary Marenus."
Lacitus took another sip of the wine. "I can't believe it! Are you sure?"
"Absolutely. There is no doubt."
Lacitus was stunned. He could barely comprehend the news. Not one to waste time and exhausted at this time of night, Lacitus composed himself. "I am indebted to this person."
Legate Trento looked quizzical. "What do you mean?"
"He saved my life. I owe him my life."
Trento''s demeanor changed menacingly quickly. "You owe him nothing!'
Tribune Lacitus took another sip of wine. Perhaps his pause could defuse his old friend's fury.
"Legate Trento. We are old friends. We have known each other for over thirty years. You know that I am a man of honour. I owe this man my life."
Legate Trento got up, clearly troubled. This was not about the Roman Army. This was about two old friends - Trento and Lacitus, two of the sharpest minds that the Roman Army could ever hope to have.
Trento owed his life to Lacitus, something that Lacitus hoped to remain unsaid this evening.
Trento walked away from his desk and then walked back. When did his life become so difficult and fraught with so many problems to solve? He could not remember. How could this problem be solved? Trento sat down, both men drinking their wine, looking into thin, dark air.
Legate Trento's gaze from nowhere returned to look Tribune Lacitus square in the face. "Very well! Here is!. If Marenus has revealed nothing in particular, he will be returned to you in the morning. You will pay his retirement and make a sizeable donation to this Legion. In accordance, I will write a story of your honour. Agreed?"
This was better than Lacitus could have hoped for. Neither man had ever been in the habit of wasting time.
"Agreed."

Chapter 17.
Neither Lacitus, Andreah or Antallius could get any sleep. After Lacitus had returned to the tent, Marenus accompanied Centurion Massimo to see Legate Trento.
As Marenus left, he whispered to Lacitus. "I am sorry. I had debts. Too many debts." Lacitus did not look at Marenus as he walked by, perhaps the last time he would see Marenus.
Unlike Legate Trento's meetings with Andreah and Lacitus, the meeting between Trento and Marenus contained another man - The Torturer. Lacitus was well aware that this would be the case and at some points through the night he was sure he heard some screams.
Lacitus had made his mind up. If the betrayals had been so great, then Marenus deserved to die. If the betrayals were small, in time Marenus could be forgiven. They had both been through so much and Lacitus understood how matters can get out of control.
The night continued, phrases going through Lacitus's tired mind. Sleep was not happening as he lay awake. Looking through the small gap of the tent flap, was it beginning to get light?
If Marenus did not return by morning, then that would be that. Lacitus tried not to think. How long could a person stay awake or could a person ever really sleep again? All these silly thoughts of near sleep.
The tent flap was flung open, daylight almost dawning. Centurion Massimo and a Legionary held someone up, taking him to his bed.
Barely recognisable, Marenus was placed down, unable to stop a groan of pain, as he did so.
Lacitus felt his heart lighten. Yes it was not ideal and yes there had been some betrayal, but nothing that had merited Marenus's death.
Lacitus broke the silence once Marenus had settled.
"Not the greatest of nights but in some ways the greatest - looks like we are heading home."
Lacitus hoped that this would be the case, but thinking of all that he had been through, he knew that even now, he could not be sure.
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