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=== Triana, border of Moesia and Thracia; Sextilis 137 AD ===

Fuvanius Rufus Sabaco looked on, as the old fortress came in sight. He had only planned returning here after his small expedition north. But after the meeting he had in Byzantium, he wanted to relay the news to his friends in person. Rufus motioned the captain of his body guard, who came to his side. Rufus produced a scroll and told him something in a low voice. The man put the scroll in his pouch and rode off, while the rest of column marched towards the fortress.

The soldier on sentinel duty looked puzzled has the column of soldiers approached the gate. He certainly did not expect to see his General return with by the looks of the standards were soldiers of Legio I Vestrarum Matrum. Some soldiers gathered in the courtyard has rumors had spread that some of the men of Vestrarum Matrum were returning. Among them were Appius Vedius and Mercius Severus, looking puzzled. Rufus went to his office and the two men followed him, curious about what was happening. Rufus signaled his aide to leave, and the took his seat has the two men closed the door and took their chairs.

Before Rufus even said anything, Appius questioned him:

“Why did you bring Vestrarum Matrum with you?”

Rufus cracked a smile. ”It is just 1500 legionnaires and it’s cavalry”

“So that is how you intend to keep your promise to the Solymbrians? By disrespecting the emperor's orders?”

“Calm down! There are still almost 4000 soldiers sitting on their. asses and spending their money on cheap wine and whores. More than enough to hold on in Byzantium in case of an attack. Besides after aiding our allies, like we are supposed to, I'll return them to Byzantium.”

Mercius started to speak. “Maybe we should have waited a bit more. The imperial armies should be on their way now and... “Rufus cut him off. “Glad you mention that. I have just heard wonderful news. While I was in Byzantium I received an emissary from the Roman general who is command of the forces who was supposed to come to aid us. And I say supposed, because our ‘wise’ emperor decided they were of better use in Hispania!”

“What?!” Both Appius and Mercius looked dismayed to the Rufus.

“Why, yes! He is probably right since we heavily outnumber the Dacians... Oh wait, thats not not correct is it... or maybe he is just waiting for the Dacians to come knocking on the door of Byzantium, before sending an army over here...”

“Surely he is sending at least some kind of reinforcement?” Said Mercius, still not wanting to believe they were being left to fend for themselves for even more time.

“Mercius! Mercius! You give too much credit to our ‘great’ emperor. For what I could gather ALL reinforcements were turned back and shipped to Hispania.” Rufus rose and started to pace. “Seriously, if this Aelianus Julius Vitellius remains in power much time, our heads will end on a Dacian stake.”

Mercius and Appius exchanged concerned looks, and Appius voiced them. “You are not... considering to rebel, are you?”

Rufus stopped in his tracks. “You’ve known me long enough to not even think that! I will never rise arms against a lawful emperor. However, there other ways, legal ways of removing an emperor, when he is so useless as this one is.”

“What do you mean?”

“If the powerful men of Rome think the way I do about him, they could pressure him into abdication, and install a competent man in the throne.” Rufus crossed his arms. “And that said I have a request for you to find the Proconsul of Greece and relay my concerns and the troubles we are in. And the need for a new emperor if this one refuses to wake up and start acting with competence.”

“I see! Do you have nay suggestion for the place of emperor?” asked Appius

“No. I just want a competent one who won't get us all killed.”

Appius stepped closer. “Then may I suggest Lucius Tacitus Vitellius? There can be no doubt about his competence.”

Rufus pondered about it for a second. He had never met the man, but knew that Appius and he were acquaintances enough. ” Yes.. . I agree with you, you can mention that in your meeting...”

In the next morning Appius Vedius departed to do his mission, and a few days later Rufus departed with the men he brought to the land of the Solymbrians.

=== Solymbrian territory, Moesia ===

Rufus was quite in a good mood. Yesterday he had received word from Caros, the leader of the Order of Cerberus. The news he had received pleased both him and his allies. For what he had gathered the high chief of the Suci, the target of this expedition, was spending the summer with his family north of his main settlement. Along with him were more than 2000 warriors. With their leader split from them, the unsuspecting Suci would have little chance against the 6000 warrior that Solymbrians had amassed for this attack. So avoiding the high chief to coming to aid of his forces, Rufus and his Romans would cut off the path leading to his settlement, hopefully intercepting and avoiding him joining the bulk of his forces. Even though Rufus would be outnumbered, the forces he was going to face were of lower quality, and were not expecting to find Romans that far north. So has he now stood watching as the entire camp prepared to depart.

With nothing better to do than waste some time, he decided to embark on a walk to clear his head before the campaign. Although he was in Moesia, he was in a friendly area, so he could relax. Buckling his gladius around his waist, he walked into the camp. As he strode through the configuration of tents, men acted calm around their commander, going about their tasks.

A few seconds into the sunlight, Rufus knew someone was following. Though he could not see him, he knew Publius, the primus pilus of Legio I Vestrarum Matrum, was close. He guessed that he was weaving in and out of the makeshift road, keeping a close eye on his friend. It was a skill Rufus had, to recognize someone when he had no visual contact. Each person had a unique signature when it came to his or her movement, which was why no one could sneak up on him without him knowing.

Upon entering the woods, he heard rapid footsteps of Publius. The Primus Pilus shouted, “General please wait!”

Rufus nodded and turned around. His friend caught up and Rufus noticed that his friend was encased in armor. Publius appeared confused, but he had a smirk on his face also. Noticing that he was looking at his dress he finally noticed that he was wearing a simple tunic with his sword by his side. Rufus laughed, anyone would of thought him to be a comical sight.

They continued on in silence. Trees past them by with not a sound between them. Rufus smoothly unsheathed his sword much to the dismay of his friend. Wedging the sword between his fingers so that no one from behind could see it, he absentmindedly asked, “How goes the campaign?”

“Uh…hmm,” Publius was at a loss as he watched the sword twirl on the index finger. “It goes good.” Rufus smiled and again distractedly questioned, “Why do you call me so formally? I am your friend.”

Publius stumbled on his words as Julius expertly maneuvered the gladius through each finger, “Yes…wait, no…I mean—”

“Duck!”

In one motion, Rufus stopped the twirlment of the blade and clutched it tightly. Swooping low, a blade shaved his hair. Calculating that the attacker’s momentum would send him over him, he pushed off from his legs and made contact with the attacker’s body. Rolling him off his shoulders, he positioned the gladius on the other side of his body. Exactly as planned, the attacker rolled off his shoulders and the blade pierced his body. The man landed with a sickening thud on the sword, pushing it all the way through his chest.

The scene was bloody as Rufus stood up. The victim, which was a barbarian, laid sprawled on the grass gasping for air, but only gurgled blood. His eyes were dilated from shock and his arms flailed in search of a weapon to finish the job. All of this was futile as Rufus watched the man’s last few minutes of life. Gradually his arms grew fatigued and his spasms grew less and less violent until at last he squirmed no more.

This ruined Rufus’s mood, everything had been going expectantly until this. At least there wasn’t any of his blood on his tunic, so his humor reversed. Rufus knelt down, turned the carcass over, and retrieved his word, careful not to attract blood. As he gently cleaned the sword on some grass, he looked over at his friend Publius.

“This... this does not bode well!”

Upon hearing the story told by the general of what had happened, the chief of the Solymbrians revealed that discontent amongst the tribesmen against Rome was growing a lot. However they did not expect it was so serious as it was now apparent. The chief then stressed the importance of this mission, as showing the commitment of the Romans would help appease the malcontent. Still, taking extra precautions they proceeded with the mission, which despite some losses managed to deal some damage to the Suci. If it succeeded in calming the Solymbrians was what remained to be seen.


=== Rome, Sillii Flavi villa; Septembris ===

“This is disturbing news I didn’t know the situation was this bad in Moesia.” Valentinianus Umbonus said as he plucked another olive in his mouth.

“Bad? That’s worse than bad Valentinianus. Moesia has long been a forgotten region but this is just ridiculous.” Ramirus poured himself a cup of wine then offered some to his friend.

“No thank you. So what is our next move?”

“Our next move? No your next move my friend. I am going east.” Ramirus took a gulp of wine then stood walking over getting a scroll from Isaiah. He unrolled it quickly reading it over before returning to his seat.

“East? Why east? This is not time to go east my friend we need your voice in the senate.” Valentinianus said strongly trying to make his case.

“I have business interests that I must see too. You don’t need me here, Julius and his influence will be enough. You must speak in the senate on the behalf of our friends abroad. You are who they need right now, not me. “

Valentinianus shook his head and became agitated. “I don’t know how you can say that we don’t need you. You’re the one that brought this whole thing together. You have fought on behalf of the people harder than most. Rome needs you Ramirus, dare I say I wish you were the emperor. At least then I would feel confident the Rome was in good hands.”

Ramirus smiled. He was flattered by the comment. “Thank you my friend, I’m happy you think so highly of me. But regrettably there are those that feel I am too wiley for the throne, that I would do something unstable. Plus there’s the whole I don’t have an army thing that’s standing in the way.”

“We’ll for what its worth I think you’d make a good emperor.”

Ramirus shrugged paying no mind to the flattering comments. “Tomorrow I want you to go before the senate, present the letter from Sabaco and as forcefully as you can bring attention to the situation in the Moesia. I believe Cassius Vitellius is back as well, speak with him let him know what’s going on up there.”

“Those are words they need actions Ramrius you know that.”

There was a hard knock at the door then Baldric poked his head in. “Sir the men have finished packing the ship we’re ready to depart whenever you are.” Ramirus nodded before the door was shut tight.

Ramirus stood walking over to the adjacent table grabbing his sword “The first order of business is to get there fort fixed. I’m sending a runner to Athens; from there with a large sum of money he and about 2000 laborers will head for Moesia to begin repairs on that fort. I’ll be away for a few months; I’ll send word from the east when I can.”

Ramirus finished his wine then rushed out the room with Valentinianus close behind. His wife and sons were waiting at the door for him; he kissed each of them goodbye as he walked out. His men sat on horseback waiting in the courtyard. He tossed his sword up to Baldric before mounting his favorite horse. “Valentinianus I trust you will keep everything in line while I’m gone?”
“I always do...”

Ramirus rode in the center of two columns of his guards, as they made there way out of the Flavii courtyard. They were half way down the block when a large group of men appeared moving towards them. His men ell into formation as the group came closer revealing Cassius.

Ramirus heard he was back in the city but hadn’t the time to go see him. "What brings you to this side of town?"

"You asked me to come to Rome; I came to Rome." Cassius said briskly. His own men stopped on either side of him, and he stepped alone closer to Ramirus. "I've been here three days. The second I met with Julius, today I wish to meet with you," Cassius paused his words and looked around Ramirus and his men. "You look like you're going somewhere... Impatient, are we? I hope we can speak before you run away- you may like what you hear."

Ramirus hopped off his horse and took his helmet off handing it to one of his men. With a quick hand signal all of his men except baldric took three steps back, but stayed information.

"Believe me everyone in Rome has been patient. The city is almost dead from Patients. So I figured I'd just go to tend to some...business." Ramirus smiled "But it’s always good to see you old friend, so what’s the news?"

Cassius looked disgruntled, but refrained from pressing for anything more private. "The topic of your letter to me should be of no more concern. My meeting with Julius confirms a change will be made, and there will be no more waiting. Others already know what I know, and the process has since begun- so if you can delay your 'business' by a few weeks, I believe you'll be more than satisfied." Cassius smiled, almost condescendingly. Then it faded to a sincere grin, and he said, "...and then you can go off to war."

Ramirus paused looking at Cassius. He knew all to well Cassius was an experienced senator and his word play was the best in Rome. But he had his reservations "Cassius I pay a lot of money to spy on other people, so you can understand I hate not knowing what is going on. You and I both know there is no war going on except in the east. Well at least while Julius is on the throne. Did you come up with some solution to his guards so you can kill him? Or have you reasoned with him and made him stand down?"

"It took neither," Cassius said. "Turn your horse and your men around, go home and relax. In two weeks you will see that a new war with your name on it is resumed, and your acts in the East overlooked. Nobody will be bleeding over this; and whoever comes after Reconcilius will certainly not tolerate a drop. Will you delay your trip?"

Cassius watched Ramirus think it over, and grew increasingly impatient. He didn't like conducting business in the open street- particularly not the street on which Ramirus lived. "The way the East is looking, all your businesses will be intact after your wait."

"Baldric," Ramirus said.

"Sir?" The German replied with one hand on the pommel of his sword

"Back to the house."

"Yes sir." The German yelled out orders in his native tongue. As one the guards turned around and marched back to the house.

"There it is Cassius I shall wait. I trust you and I trust you know what’s good for Rome. That alone would make me listen."

"Your willingness to have patience pleases me," Cassius quipped jovially. He nodded over his shoulder to his own men, and then said to Ramirus. "I am already in the neighborhood, so I'll just follow you home. We can talk more there, if you like."

"Fine by me. My wife loves guests." Ramrius walked side by side with him back to the house and into the atrium. The slaves immediately approached handing them sliver goblets filled with wine.

"So tell me what have you been up to Cassius?" Ramirus said as he offered his guest a seat


=== Mediolanum, Gallia Cisalpina; Later That Week ===

Arathae Omelius Accarus pulled the tent flap back strolling into the tent of Marcus Quinus Polybius. Quinus had been in command of the legions assembled at Mediolanum while the emperor had finished making preparations in Rome.

“How are the men?” Quinus asked as he continued to read the daily report. The son of the Danuvian Proconsular Legate Terentius Marcus Polybius, and nephew of the new Emperor had been studious in his responsibilities. His position was respected by the many thousands of legionaries and civilians in and around Mediolanum.

“They’re the same as yesterday, cold and bored, but the important thing is have you seen the news from Rome?” Accarus sat pouring himself some wine. He tossed the scroll on the desk in front of Quinus.

“It seems Rome has sent us a new commander,” Accarus said with a smile as Qunius took the scroll reading its contexts.

“This must be some joke! They’re sending us a rebel?” Qunius quipped, laughing a little.

“Former rebel to be exact. Rumor is he’s been a champion of the people and very outspoken in the senate since he returned to the Imperial side of the purple.” Omelius Accarus frowned, and stepped aside to look briefly out a window. “Doesn’t matter to me though, a soldier is a soldier. If your Uncle thinks he’ll do us right, i’m not about to disobey.”

Qunius shook his head as he read the scroll for a third time. Finally satisfied the words would not change he spoke. “It doesn’t matter, he’s a rebel. Once a rebel always a rebel, I have half a mind to write to Rome and refuse to serve under the man. Do you know how many of our brothers he’s killed? Loyal men to empire cut down because of his actions.”

Accarus laughed. “You say that like he killed innocent Roman women and children. He’s a soldier and it was war. He killed men that were trying to kill him. I truly don’t care why he decided not to be loyal; he’s loyal now and taking up his command here. I won’t say i’m glad he’s coming, but he is.”

Qunius scoffed at the comment angrily slamming his cup on the desk to refill it. “Hadrianos Sylivios would march on Rome if he were alive to learn this!”

“Rome could have sent some mouse of man with no experience to command us but they didn’t. They sent an experienced commander, look I don’t care about the man’s politics- we both know he’s coming into the viper’s nest- I only care about his ability to win battles. And looking at the body count he left in the east he doesn’t shy away from a fight.” Accarus threw some wine back knowing full well the comment that would next come out of Quinus’s mouth.

“See that’s your youth talking…” Qunius stated as he had on several occasions.

Accarus shook his head, rolling his eyes. “Here we go again.”

“You idealistic young men today have no idea of Rome’s traditions. I remember a time when Ramirus would have been shown no mercy for his actions.” Quinius preached for a moment but realized his words fell on deaf ears, again. “Are you listening?” He asked annoyed. He and Omelius were close, but there would be no lack of respect.

“Yes,” Omelius said dryly, locking his eyes onto Quinus’s. “I understand where you’re coming from, but a good commander is a good commander, regardless of willy nilly rebel stuff.”



=== Magnus Palatia Tulliae, Rome; Octobris ===

“This could mean a lot for us Ramirus, this couldn’t have played out any better. A family friend and ally are now on the throne!” Aenoria said the potential for growth in status wasn’t lost on her. She was always thinking one step ahead. They were walking down the long entrance hall to the historic home of the Tullians, and she quieted as soon as they caught view of the new Emperor.

"Ramirus..." Lucius Tacitus said, greeting the outspoken and public former rebel heartily within his library. He smiled at the solder-turned-politician, odd looking without any guard at his side. He smiled too at Aenoria. "Thank you for coming. Did you bring your family?"

Ramirus smiled. "Yes My wife Aenoria and my oldest son. Thank you for the invitation, I’m honored."

"Thank for your appreciation," Tacitus said. "Aenoria and the boy may join the rest of the families through these doors," Tacitus turned to his side and motioned to the rear library doors behind him, where the noises of children, chatter and music could be heard. "Then you and I can talk."

"Very well." Ramirus kissed his wife and rubbed his son on the head before they turned, leaving the room. He then turned his attention back to the new Emperor. "So aside from celebration on your new position, well deserved I might add. Why have you requested I come?"

Once Tacitus heard the doors behind him close, he said, "You are a mischievous, scheming man. I recognize that and accept it." He kept his smile but squinted, looking at Ramirus as if he were scrutinizing him. He started to pace, getting to business right in the open of the atrium. "You didn't work to stir up a desire for change in leadership because you really didn't believe in Reconcilius, the same as you didn't write my brother in Greece simply for friendly correspondence. Knowing all that... I'd like to discuss where you go from here."

Ramirus smirked. "Well now I see all the pleasantries have been set aside." Ramirus folded his arms and sighed. "But you would be correct Julius, was an emperor who found him self in the right place at the right time. I do not wish to take any thing away from his deeds, but I would be lying if I said I had no personal stake in things. Wether you call me scheming or mischievous does not matter to me. I am who I am, some one has to be. But I have no grip against the Tullians I count you among my allies. I was working to support Cassius for emperor but you on the throne suites me just fine." Ramirus said as he gave a wide grin. "Now as to the future... well that is up to you my friend. Although I do have some suggestions if you’re willing to entertain them?"

Tacitus smiled and shook his head, expressing 'no'. Still pacing, he said, "I will be sending you to Moesia as Proconsular Legate, to work as support for Fuvanius Rufus Sabaco. You will be given command of two legions: I Moesica and V Roma Victrix. They are waiting outside Mediolanum. It was made clear to me that you were intended to go there before Reconcilius became, how do I say it... wishy washy?"

Ramirus looked very disturbed by what he heard and changed his tone from speaking to his ally and now to speaking to his emperor. "Sire you may not have the full understanding on what is going on in Moesia. My men have been to Moesia and returned with a report from Sabaco himself. Two legions in support of the two demoralized legions and handful tribe’s men will do nothing but bring upon my death and the needless death of the men under my command. Now I’m not scared of a hard fight but I’m not a fool either." Ramirus collected his thoughts trying to convey his point to the emperor. "If legions are in short supply raise four more, given the four to five months to train them it will allow me to get to know my men. Then let me lead them to Moesia and retake that province."

"I too have heard from Rufus Sabaco, thanks to reports from Reconcilius. I know the situation there is dire, but the biggest positive is that the Dacians haven't pushed further south yet. The whole time our civil war was raging, the Dacians seemed content with just Moesia." Tacitus stopped pacing and stood facing Ramirus, barely two feet away. "I am amused by your initiative to collect intelligence on your own, but in the interest of my reign and because I am curious- did you share this with Reconcilius, or save it for me?"

"These events have just come to light. My men just got home days ago and I was preparing to leave. Reconcilius would have knowledge of these events if he had spent less time locked up in the palace and more time paying attention to the empire. The only reason the Dacians haven’t attacked is luck. But only the gods know what they've been doing while we were locked in civil war." Ramirus paused for a moment looking at Tacitus. "Look you can say I scheme and plot so be it. No more than another, but you are my ally and you are my emperor. The Tullians and the Sillii Flavians have never had a problem. So the mistrust I hear in your voice is misplaced."

Tacitus nodded to the side, accepting within himself that he may have sounded mistrustful. He didn't intend that to be the case. "My words remain the same, but I had no desire to mark you as a bad person with them. We all have traits within ourselves that can be good, and bad. So I agree," he waved the topic off, and said, "Our families are and have been close. Your father ended worse than he lived, but he was never tarnished in my eyes. Back to Dacia- Gods aside, the point is they have not invaded further and have had over an entire year to do so. There will be five legions up there, two under you and three under Sabaco- his third will be in Mediolanum in a matter of weeks. Your legions currently garrisoned there as well. Sabaco's legions may be discouraged, but that is easily changed with the arrival of imperial support and praise for their situation. Five legions, two experienced commanders and an array of auxiliary support will be enough to gain a new foothold in the region. Your doubt could easily be interpreted as a lack of faith in your own abilities," Tacitus chuckled, "but I'm sure that isn't the case."

Ramirus chuckled as well. "That most definately is not the case. Rest assured I will do what must be done. But even though five legions is all we will have more legions will have to be raised. I think Reconcilius raised only what two? Maybe three legions? A far cry from what Rome needs to patrol the borders and re-establish control over the north. Also, placing one of the fleets under my command would really come in handy. it would allow me to move the men by sea and when we have to march up the coast to Tomis it gives me a ready stock of supplies."

Tacitus looked confused. "According to Reconcilius, he raised only the one legion- I Hispania." Tacitus began to pace again, and then clasped his hands behind his back. "I won’t be placing a fleet under your command. In fact, I am in need of raising an entirely new fleet! Any reinforcements that come to Moesia will come from the East- from Annius Sabaco, or I hope, Florianus Julianus. They can be ferried over the Dardanelles by the Greeks, and the Ionians. Do you accept this new command? I am not promising yet, but I anticipate moving Sabaco out of Moesia when this is over and leaving you."

"Of course sire I accept as a general. But as a senator we can afford to raise a lot of legions. Rome’s coffers are swollen At least allow me to present a proposal before the senate to raise an aux of horsemen from either Hispania or Gaul. These would already be experienced men so the training time would be cut in half. Place them under my charge and when they’re ready in two months time I will have them brought to Moesia."

Tacitus stopped a few feet from Ramirus and turned to face him, hands still behind his back. "I intend to bypass the Senate in regard to the army of Rome," Tacitus said matter-of-factly. "I know full well my rights are to bleed the treasury dry if I like, and that from my experience as a commander of forces it is the Senate's time-consuming ways that can make or break a crisis... So, when it comes to raising legions I will do it by my own decree, when and how I see fit. Let the noble body continue to dictate the law of the empire, but it’s defense is up to me." He stopped talking to let the point sink in, then after a moment said, "I do however recognize your advice and agree we need more legions, auxiliaries and naval forces. You won’t be ordered to take command of your new army for at least a week, so if you feel compelled to draw up a list of recommended units to rise, I will eagerly accept it and consider it."

Ramirus stood straight as Tactius spoke. That was the first time he had spoken like a true emperor. "So be it, I will have my aid send over the list in the morning. There is another matter of funds and materials. There’s a fort that’s in pretty bad shape and of course the loyal locals will have to be paid off. As for the fort if the empire is willing to pay my company, I will send orders for my operation in Greece to get started. Provided of course you’re willing to do business with me?"

"Ramirus I am willing to do business with everybody," Tacitus said seriously. "My own companies have ships on the Danube, useless in Moesia unfortunately. I will send you and Tullius Fortunus Vitell... Julianus both with a heavy amount of gold talents for use in retaking Moesia, and how you guys refit forts, legions and support works is up to you- but I will not tolerate irregulaties in legionary accounting. I am placing a large amount of trust in you, a trust that will garner me serious questions from those who still think you should be thrown over the tarpeian rock. I see your skill and intelligence as assets of the empire however, and wish to see you earn yourself the favor of Rome once again."

Ramirus grinned knowing he had his fair share of enemies. "I serve Rome and I serve you sire. You and your family are friends and allies I will not let you down. As for Tullius Fortunus Julianus, I was unaware he was in Rome. Where will he be commanding?"

"He isn't yet in Rome, but soon." Tacitus said. He walked back toward Ramirus. "He has already raised and led a legion into combat in Hispania, pitting his force against the Freigoths recently. He will be going east with you to aide Sabaco. He won’t be directly under your command, but under Sabaco's. However, like I mentioned before, you could see Moesia as your own region soon enough, in which case I am inclined to leave Fortunus too. I will be sure to send Fortunus your way when he arrives in the city. Then the two of you can acquaint yourselves, and leave for Mediolanum together."

"Good, good. I will make preparations immediately. The legion list will be on desk in the morning." Ramirus bowed his head and stepped back.

"Alright," Tacitus said with a smile that said he liked efficiency. "Don't forget to mingle, and enjoy yourself. A guest in my house receives no ill will from other guests, and your wife and child will need to be sought out... Go have fun."

"Oh trust me I will" Ramirus said with a smile as he stepped away from the emperor, walking towards the door.

=== Silli Flavi villa, Two Weeks Later ===

“Isn’t he cute?” Aenroia said as she sat playing with her sister’s hair. This was her husband’s last party before he left for Moesia.

“Playing matchmaker again sister? You’re just as bad as father.” The slender girl took a sip of wine and looked around the room only somewhat excited to be at the party.

“I know Cassia, I only want you to be happy- everyone wants you to be happy. Father hasn’t arranged a marriage for you because he loves you and knows you would have been unhappy with one the old men he calls friends. Look at Ramirus, and I we’re young and happy. You deserve the same sister, I love you and I only want the best for you.”

“If you wanted me to be happy you would have let me run away with Cassius when we were in the east.” Cassia snapped at her sister, still carrying the torch for Ramirus’s friend and bodyguard.

Aenoria grabbed her sister’s arm, careful not to make a scene. “That could never happen again, I told you that. We let you have your fun and it almost cost us all. I will not let you bring shame to my house or to our father. So forget that ever happened and move forward, you’re barely twenty one, beautiful and there are a host of handsome men in this room.”

“Let me go Aenoria, my place has already been defined to me.” Cassia said as she seethed in anger.

“Look he’s coming, smile.” Aenoria said as young Tullius Fortunus Julianus walked over, smiling from ear to ear.

=== One of the many legionary camps outside Mediolanum,Gallius Cisalpina; Two Weeks Later ===

A sentry stared off into the distance at the shadow figures slowly creeping their way forward. He rubbed his eyes and squinted to try and make out who in there right mind would approach there camp in such horrendous weather.

“State your name and business!” He shouted down from the top of the stone palisade. Mediolanum had been upgraded over the past few years thanks to the attentions of the late Hadrianos Sylivios and was now one of the most heavily fortified cities in the empire.

Baldric rode close to wall to reply. “Open the doors in the name of Procounsular Legate Sillius Ramirus Flavus, commander of these legions!”

A moment later the door crept open and allowing the guards and wagon trains to ride in. The reaction in the camp was immediate as men rushed to their tent doors to see who had just arrived. Orders were immediately given for his personal guards who all wore the historic black armor fashioned by Ramirus’s father Sillius.

“Soldier if you wouldn’t mind please send for the Legates; advise them I’ve arrived and there is an immediate meeting in the command tent.” Ramirus said, as he stood walked into what was pointed out to be his personal quarters. The chill had run through him, years upon years spent in the warm dusty climate of the east had spoiled him. The fox skin cloak his wife had made for him wasn’t nearly enough to keep the cold out, but it warmed his heart with memories of home. He stood in his tent looking at the men clamoring to stay warm as they hurried across the narrow path into the command tent. The men standing around all saluted in proper form. Ramirus noted the room had been divided in two between the men of the legion and the men on his staff.

Ramirus looked at the two Legates. “So I’ll have your names, gentlemen.”

Arathae Omelius Accarus, eager and ambitious quickly, spoke up. “Sir my name is Omelius Accarus and this here is Marcus Quinus Polybius.”

Ramirus smirked at the young man’s spunk. “Excellent, allow me to introduce my staff, my right hand Legate Marcus Tullio he will assume full command of the auxiliaries and like you gentlemen answer directly to me. My Jewish friend here is Isaiah; he is my personal property and will not be questioned or bothered. You will submit minor reports, maintenance, food supply, so on and so forth to him. Senator Marcus Fallentius here will be accompanying us at my personal request; He has a unique knowledge of Moesia and the situation there.”

Ramirus walked around placing his arm around a very young man. “This is my cousin Galerius. His father and I don’t get along to well but he has requested to accompany me and I have agreed. He will serve on my staff and at no time to be sent on any missions I personally don’t approve, am I clear?” The men sounded off in agreement as nothing he had said was unreasonable.

“Good I’ll accept nothing less other than your very best we will march hard and train even harder. I’m fair but tough; I’ll speak to and get to know the men along the way. If orders are not followed they will be punished, but if they do a good job they will be rewarded. We break camp in the morning.”

“Sir what about the weather?” Polybius questioned, noting the looming winter.

“Chilly I know, but we must be underway. Moesia has waited long enough. They’ve held the line in worse weather under worse conditions I think we owe it to them to arrive as soon as we can. So I repeat in the morning we will break camp and march out. Spread the word to the men: dress warm! Dismissed.” The men saluted and began to depart.

“Quinus a word,” Ramirus said just as the Legate was reaching the doorway.

Written By: Fuvanius Rufus Sabaco and Sillius Ramirus Flavus
Edited By: Ferus Juventas
138 AD

well written guys!

"I am who I am, someone has to be."

haha, nice quote. Good movie too