Please leave comments, good or bad! Im anxious to see what you people think of the story so far.

Rated [R]

There is some pretty bloody scenes here and im not sure if there are any youngsters on this site. If there are, then beware. Anyway, I hope you all enjoy it.

Chapter 1: The first Battle
Chapter 1 cont...
Chapter 2: Nero's Rage
Chapter 3: The Defence Of Rome
Chapter 4: Lucaius's Retreat

The Battles For Freedom: Chapter 5: An Unjust Tragedy

July 26th, 9:00 AM, Rome.

Rome was alive this mourning, flourishing with people as they awakened by the mighty sounds of the coliseum’s trumpets. The music was loud and exhilarating, and it shook the very ground; the people soon realized that the Gladiator’s would fight again. Spirits were lifted by this gift from the Emperor as he had planned, and laughter was not scarce. Although, as pleased as the people seemed, a dark shroud of deceit covered Rome after Galba branded Lucaius as a traitor, and would not be easily forgotten. Quickly the rumours spread through town like a wild fire, reaching every home, and every ear.

“Lucaius will march on Rome!” People muttered while feeling a rush of anticipation.

“Lucaius Decimus would never turn on his people, he fights for the people!” Some would argue.

Father’s and Mother’s would even whisper to their sons and daughters. “Lucaius is Rome’s saviour, and will free the people of Rome, fret not child, you will see.”

Soon the gossip became a source of hope for many Roman’s, as Lucaius was loved and admired by most of the people. But, a rumour was no more than a rumour, and much like a fictional story, it was a tall tale of legends and myths, leaving the people with no choice but to wait and see for themselves.

In the centre of town sat Galba’s large and luxurious house. It was like a barracks itself, surrounded by a large stone wall, and guarded by many Praetorians as they stood at attention every 20 feet. On top of his barracks like house, was a single tower, no more than 40 feet off the ground, and able to house 10 archers when needed. His front gate was fastened by thick and hard Larch wood, able to withstand all season types, and when set on fire, burned poorly; it too, guarded by Praetorians, 10 of them. Through the gate laid a stone path concealed by tall walls on each side, which towered 7 feet high, and prevented unwanted eyes from glaring into Galba’s yard. As you made your way up his path, you were greeted by enormous entrance doors carved from beautiful oak wood, and in laid with black mahogany. A carving of two Stallions on their hind legs facing each other was the first sight you would notice when approaching the two doors. It was an amazing yet intimidating appearance, both beautiful and powerful.

Suddenly, a loud knocking interrupted Galba, while he was preparing orders to summon reinforcements for his war against Lucaius. The 15,000 reinforcements he had already called upon to defend Rome the day before, had only just arrived that morning, as they were obviously late, but still useful. Approximately 50 000 more were going to be summoned from all over the Empire, and consisted of light to heavy cavalry, Praetorian Legions, Cohorts, Spearmen, Archers, and many Spanish and Germanian mercenaries.

“Enter.” He shouted while perched at his great table, head down to his work.

The large doors squeaked open, and in came 5 Praetorian Guards escorting 7 guests of an uneven look; clothed in black armour. The Praetorian’s took position against the walls with their spears at their side, 2 on each wall, and one beside Galba himself. Their eyes were fixed straight ahead, as their breathing was pleasant, and confident. The Praetorian next to Galba leaned over and whispered in his ear, while his concentration was still to the papers in front of him.

“General, Platius has arrived with the men you requested.” The Praetorian quietly backed up and stood at attention as Galba raised his hand to wave him off.

Coldly, he had not even given his visitors a glance, and didn’t care much for pleasantries. His guests were patiently poised directly in front of him side by side, and awaiting acknowledgement. Platius was among them and dictated as their leader.

The room around them was square in shape and darkened by the lack of candlelight as there were only 3 lit. On the walls to their left and right hung many banners and emblems, which all carried the mark of Rome. Situated in the middle was Galba’s table, and on it laid his sword, an inkbottle, a single candle that barely illuminated his face, and the many papers that so easily had his undivided attention. Visions and thoughts of lost and murdered lives could almost be seen and heard when starring at the floor, for its wood was stained with much blood, some old, and some very recent. While his interests were still focussed on his papers, Galba firmly and calmly asked.

“Platius, have you prepared all the arrangements I requested?” His eyes looked up impatiently awaiting a response.

“Yes my lord, these men will accompany me.” Replied Platius as he raised his hand introducing the other 6 men. They nodded.

Galba paused for a moment to study them; he was pleased. They were a rather large and brawny bunch, and had the look of savages, all with long and ragged hair. Each one of them wielded a short sword on their hip, and carried a small double axe on their backs. The collections of their other deadly knives and throwing tools were hidden among their clothes and armour, ready for use. They were Mercenaries, and would follow any order given for the right pay. Galba didn’t hesitate and began issuing their orders, just as Nero had described them to him. Platius and the other men had no reaction to the instructions, as they were more excited to have their way with Lucaius’s wife and daughter. Galba soon finished and smiled, and lowered his pen.

“There is just one more command I have for you Platius.” Galba’s smile was dark.

“I’m at your service my lord.” Replied Platius.

“Lucentius betrayed Rome, and he betrayed himself, he is not worthy of his life.” Galba then peered into Platius’s eyes with an evil presence. His glare was strong and upsetting, and his eyes were as sinister as evil itself. “His wife and family deserve the same fate, I want it taken care of, and all of you shall be greatly rewarded upon your return.”

The men quickly nodded and at once replied.

“Yes sir!” They were proud in their response as they put their feet together and bowed their heads as a sign of great respect.

“Very good, then you are dismissed.” Galba quickly through his attention back to his papers, and the Praetorian Guards forcefully escorted the Mercenaries out.

“Platius!” Quickly shouted Galba. The Praetorian’s suddenly stopped, heads and eyes straight ahead. Platius and the Mercenaries quickly turned.

“Sir?” Replied Platius.

Galba calmly spoke. “I want it understood that it is Lucaius’s family who is to be taken care of first, if you fail to follow this order, then you will suffer the same fate. Understand?”

Platius swallowed as quietly as possible to hide his fears, and almost lost his balance as the strength form his legs departed. Wasn’t he Galba’s right hand man he pondered? Was his life so useless? He quickly replied.

“Understood my lord.” He bowed one more time, and turned out.

* * *
Same day, 4 hours later.

To the north above Ariminum, Lucentius was less than an hour from his farm, galloping as fast as he could, and exhausting his horse. He had been ridding all night, and all morning passionately driven by the fear of his family’s death. He was unaware however that Platius was targeting Lucaius’s family first, and still a couple of days away.

His hands were now consistently bleeding as he clutched his reins with the deepest strength. Nevertheless, bother him it did not, nor did he even suffer the pain for his mind was running wild with thoughts and images of what he might uncover. But he soon realized that he was too paranoid and quickly decided to shut his eyes for a brief moment to regain his concentration and calmness.

By complete surprise, his horse screamed a deathly cry as it was pierced through its neck from an arrow that was as silent and as fast as an attacking hawk. It was a flawless shot that took much skill, and must have come from the side. The horse savagely tumbled headfirst and came to a complete halt, burying itself in the dirt and launching Lucentius nearly 20’ into the air. The horse was quickly dead, and Lucentius yelled as his face smashed into the ground. The sand and rocks viciously ripped through his skin leaving him bloodied and torn. His body lay on the ground motionless as he watched his predator’s move in, studying him. Immediately the blackness slowly crept up, and his vision of the enemy was blurred and obscured. As they approached speaking an unusual Latin dialect, he lost consciousness. Lucentius was completely helpless and his family would have to wait.

* * *
South of Ariminum, Eastern Coastline, 1:23 PM

Emerging from the forest, Alphios came to a rest and glanced around; nothing was to be seen. A fortunate thing he thought as the men were in no condition to fight. He then raised his hand and signalled Lucaius and the rest to follow. The sea was now in sight, and many of the soldiers smiled and cheered, and some even began to sing amongst themselves. Lucaius reached Alphios with Marcus close behind, and Maximus still with the men. Alphios looked over his shoulder as Lucaius came upon him and gave him a nod as though he completed his mission. Lucaius was confused.

“There sir.” Alphios was pointing at the small hill directly in front of them that was obscuring their view.

“What’s there Alphios, have we arrived? I don’t see anything and we’re still in dangerous territory.” Anxiously asked Lucaius. Alphios nodded again and pointed one more time. Marcus was watching the tree line, as were his cavalry who were always brave.

Lucaius trotted toward the hill and made his way up. As he reached the peak, he paused and laughed, and dismounted his horse. He skimmed the sea with his eyes while taking in a fresh Mediterranean breeze. Calmness set upon him, and finally he felt safe. He slowly knelt down on one knee and bowed his head mumbling a prayer of thanks to the Gods as Nereus’s fleet awaited on the shore. Lucaius noticed a man waving at him from down below; it was Nereus. Lucaius raised his arm and returned the greeting as he whispered to himself.

“Hello my friend.”

Nereus quickly ordered a squad of archers and pikemen to race up the hill and provide protection. Lucaius then turned and faced his courageous troops.

“Men of the II Augustus Legion!” All of a sudden his 3800 men were at complete attention, and even the wounded forgot their pain for a moment, as his powerful voice was always inspiring.

“You have trusted me with your lives.” Lucaius looked to the ground shaking his head.

“And all this time, you have never shown cowardice, or have ever questioned my orders, for that, I thank all of you. You are the finest soldiers I’ve ever had the pleasure to fight with, and I am honoured to be called your General.”

At that time, Nereus’s 200 archers and 100 pikemen ran by taking positions along the tree line. Lucaius’s men saw this and for the first time yet they knew they were saved. Smiles were contagious. As Lucaius continued, more troops and surgeons arrived to help the wounded as Nereus’s supplies were plentiful.

“And now, I ask one more thing from all of you.” Lucaius paused and the men looked at each other completely curious and puzzled.

“We are about to cross the sea, and after that, I can only promise more war. Many of us will surely die and I cannot guarantee how many will live, but Rome will be free again. So now you must decide. You can go back to your families, or you can come with me, I leave the choice to you.”

Many of the men frowned with disagreement.

“If you decide to return home, be assured that I will have no ill thoughts toward you,
and . .. . . .”

Unexpectedly, a soldier interrupted Lucaius.

“LUCAIUS!…………………....LUCAIUS!……….LUCAIUS!” The soldier began chanting and yelling Lucaius’s name out loud. The entire army quickly followed.

Lucaius’s heart pounded as he felt as though he was in the centre of Rome’s great Coliseum. Nereus down below could hear the men and he grinned, proud of Lucaius he was.

Lucaius’s mouth slowly closed as he listened at his men. His captain’s looked around at the soldier’s unsurprised of their loyalty, and joined in. Even Alphios began, inspired by this true hero. Lucaius closed his eyes and raised his head toward the bright blue sky and took in a deep breath. He gently exhaled while lowering his head and opened his eyes. The men quickly stopped, as it appeared Lucaius was about to speak.

“MEN!” He pauses. “We go to war!”

Lucaius’s army inspirationally threw their arms into the air cheering and yelling at the top of their lungs. It was a remarkable and honourable display. Lucaius hastily jumped up on his horse and gave the order to board the ship and the army ran like they were charging at an enemy foe, still yelling. Nereus’s men carried the wounded.

Lucaius soon came upon Nereus and he quickly dismounted his Stallion. Both men powerfully locked their right hands together as if they were arm wrestling and stared each other straight in the eyes.

“Good to see you my friend.” Stated Nereus.

“Its good to see you as well.” Replied Lucaius. Both men unlocked their hands and began walking toward the ships. Lucaius’s men were already running by as freshly cooked meat filled the air like an aroma.

“Your men are inspired by you Lucaius, well done.” Praised Nereus.

“It wasn’t easy my friend, many of my men suffered torturous deaths.”

“They couldn’t have asked for a more talented leader, you saved their lives.” Replied Nereus. Lucaius stubbornly nodded his head, and was still unsatisfied.

“Thank you Nereus. Me and you have much to talk about.”

“In time, in time. First, we sail to my city.” Replied Nereus. Lucaius looked surprised.

“Your city?” He asked. Nereus confidently laughed.

“Ha ha ha, yes General, I have acquired Salona. But don’t worry, I shall explain along the way.”

Lucaius shook his head bewildered to all that Nereus had accomplished, but was quite impressed. As they embarked on their journey across the Mediterranean, Nereus unfolded the entire past that had slipped between them. He explained that the day he had disappeared was because they enemy had captured him and took him as prisoner. For many years he endured his captivity, but one day found a chance to escape, and slaughtered many of the men holding him as a slave in the process.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Nereus’s Escape

The dark, wet and humid chamber was all Nereus could see, smell or touch. His soul was dying and his heart was lost. As he sat in his usual spot, he could smell freshly cooked food billowing in through the door, but was unable to retrieve any as he was chained to the wall. Every now and then his Barbarian captive’s would throw in some raw or rotting meat that was usually covered with maggots, or sickening mold. Regularly they would give him water to survive, but occasionally would urinate in the cup, and Nereus had no choice but to drink it, or he would die. There was no room for pride anymore, and like many of the wolves that killed Lucaius’s men, there was only the will to survive.

On a stormy night, Nereus’s skills were needed to earn the Barbarian’s more money. Every now and then, they would summon him to fight as a gladiator in their barbaric arenas, although this night was different from the rest and most likely his only chance to escape.

As they neared his cell, he could here them arguing outside.

“Urgh! Shut ye mouth befor I shut’it for ya.” Threatened one of the Barbarian’s to another.

Suddenly the door creaked opened as they were continuously arguing and Nereus noticed that one of his captive’s stormed off raging about their argument. His chance had suddenly emerged! Every time prior, Nereus was always escorted by at least two of the Barbarian’s, as they were aware of his deadly skills. But this night, they had gotten lazy, and would pay dearly.

The man walked in with the key in hand and Nereus acted as though he could barely function.

“Come’an ye worthless Roman, git’up.” The man kicked Nereus in the leg, and then unlocked one of his wrists, although, Nereus was patient and did nothing. He was too smart, and would wait for a roar of thunder to disguise his attack. Suddenly it came and in a single breath, the Barbarian found himself choking on his own blood and fluids as Nereus ripped his throat clean out with his hand. The man gurgled for a while as he fell to his knees while staring at Nereus; eyes wide open holding his neck, but then died and toppled over. As fast as he could, Nereus ripped the keys from the mans cold lifeless grip, and unlocked his other wrist; he was free. Like a wild beast raging with revenge, he was loose, and ready to hunt. He then calmly knelt beside the still warm carcase and pressed his fingers into the blood, wiping them across his face. He equipped the mans club to his back, and fastened his knives to his newly acquired belt. Unknown as to where he was, he cared not and stealthily moved out, gripping one of the knives. He peered his head around the corner of the door, and noticed a single guard standing at the end of the dark hall, about 20’ away. The guard was ignorant to the danger and unprepared to fight as his overconfidence beset his concentration and was practically asleep. As it was far too late, the Barbarian caught a blur in the corner of his eye sprinting towards him and he quickly turned his head. *SLICE*. A spray of blood painted the wall in front of him, as well as Nereus’s face. It was messy, but quiet, and the mans throat opened up followed by his head slamming into the ground. Nereus wiped the blade on the guard’s shirt, and continued down the hall. Moving as quietly as he could, he began to smell decaying bodies, and soon realized that he was not their only prisoner. He then came to another door at the end of the hall, and heard commotion on the other side. He put his ear to the cold black steel, and studied the noises. 2 then 4, and then another, that made 5 men inside, but Nereus was fearless, and the courage that resided inside him had far before turned to rage. He quietly stood up and opened the door with not a care in the world and ready to fight to the death. He pushed it opened so slow that it creaked very loud, and immediately, all 5 Barbarians rapidly turned their heads toward him. Everyone in the room paused in shock for a moment not believing their eyes, and Nereus just stood there while slowly pulling another knife from his belt, sharpening itself as it came out. That was the signal and all at once the 5 men rushed him bearing clubs and maces.

“Ge’t em!” Shouted one.

“Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!” Screamed the guards.

The first one swung at Nereus’s face but hit the door as he swiftly arched backward dodging the attack. Simultaneously Nereus swung upwards at the mans attacking arm, and sliced it clean off, then stepped forward. Before the man hit the ground, 2 more from the sides both attacked. Both their attacks were beaten as Nereus knelt down, crossed his arms, and stuck them both in the gut, turning both blades, and tearing them out. More blood sprayed on Nereus’s face causing temporarily blindness, but cleverly he had already caught the next attackers moves, and quickly rolled out of the way. The mace hit the ground where Nereus’s face would have been, and the guard was stunned; the other two slowly fell holding their bellies. The Barbarian had not even raised his arm to attack again when Nereus was already diving through the air sticking both blades through his chest. Both went down together with Nereus on top and again, quickly rolled off and out of the way as another mace came down hitting the guard’s face, and crushing it. Nereus’s two blades were still stuck in his chest, so he slowly pulled the club off his back. As he was doing so, the last guard left was just pulling his weapon off the mans face. The two stood starring at each other with the outmost hatred. The Barbarian panicked and attacked. Nereus easily blocked his swing with his club, but the crushing hit broke it in two. Nereus was now with out a weapon and without delay, had to duck to miss the guard’s next attack. As the weapon swung above, Nereus threw himself into the mans stomach forcing him to the ground. They wrestled around for a bit, but soon stopped when Nereus powerfully grabbed the guard’s arm that wielded the mace, and held it down. As he did so, he began pounding his face non-stop.

“AHH!” The first punch connected breaking the guard’s nose, splattering blood all over his face.

“AHH!” Another scream of rage came from Nereus as his rock hard fist connected again. More blood flew.

“AHH!” Another came down.

“AHH!” Again, and again, and again he continued to pound his face to a mushy pulp, screaming every time.

Soon he realized his fist was broken, and the guard was far from alive. Nereus quickly stopped and regained his concentration. He arose to his feet one more time and glanced around admiring his work. He was proud to kill these men as they stood for nothing more then to rape and pillage innocent people. In front of him was another door and he noticed that it was the way out as he could see the stars through the bars. Too easy he thought, but none the less, he darted out and ran into the darkness before more Barbarian’s would come. Swiftly he was gone, leaving no trace.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Back To Present Time

He also explained that for many more years he wandered the land of Macedonia in search of willing aid. When he reached the Roman city of Salona, he found that many soldiers there were unhappy with the Emperor, Nero. People as well were on the verge of revolting, and he soon found himself at the head of an underground rebellion that attracted the attention of thousands of eager soldiers. Soon he and his followers overthrew the officials who were of very few, and was elected ruler of Salona.

“Why was Rome not aware of this?” Asked Lucaius.

Nereus answered by explaining that his army was successful in preventing any scouts from reaching Rome, giving them time to prepare for their war. Garrisons dispatched to Salona from any other Roman city were ambushed and given the chance to join Nereus, or die; most of them joined, and soon he amassed a 50,000-man army. Almost immediately, it all made sense, and Lucaius was left with only one question.

“But why attack Rome when it was the Barbarian’s who tortured you?”

“My friend, your devotion to the empire blinds you.” Replied Nereus. Lucaius was confused.

“Lucaius, it was Nero and Galba who had hired the Barbarian’s to ambush us that day. That is why the arrows came out of nowhere, because they already knew where we would be.” Explained Nereus.

“Impossible, the Emperor would have never. .” Lucaius stuttered. “But I did my duties and more for the Empire, why would he…”

Nereus interrupted. “Lucaius! They wanted you out because the people loved you, and Nero knew you could easily take the throne since you had the loyalty of the troops.”

Lucaius sat back for a minute and pondered Nereus’s claims.

“Your right my friend, how could I be such a blind fool?” Lucaius was disappointed in himself and lowered his head.

“Lucaius, you are a great General fit for the throne and it was Nero and Galba who were the fools, you just truly carried out your duties. Its only unfortunate that this world is filled with evil tyrants, but fret not, for we will destroy them.” Nereus grinned.

* * *

Lucentius struggled to open his eyes. His head ached and pounded in shear pain, and his face was covered with many cuts. One eye opened, then the other, and dust fell from his forehead. He shook his head, and more dust twirled in the air. He glanced around for a bit and noticed three men sitting by a fire. It was still day, and luckily they hadn’t seen him wake up. He moved his eyes around some more surveying the area, and saw that he was still in the same spot where he had gone down. He looked to where his horse had been, and saw that it was butchered. Quickly he realized these men were scavengers, and would probably eat him as well. Trying to get up, he was motionless, as his feet and hands had been bound. He looked over one more time, and still they hadn’t noticed his consciousness. Suddenly, one arose to his feet staggering about, drunk from their wine, and walked over to Lucentius. Secretly he acted as though he was still knocked out, waiting for a moment. The scavenger stood over him disgustingly chomping on what was most likely Lucentius’s horse. The man was loud and repulsive as drool and pieces of food fell onto Lucentius’s face. Then Lucentius heard a dagger being ripped out of its sheath. Lucentius held his breath terrified of what the scavenger might do. With his eyes still shut, Lucentius’s binds were cut, and his arms fell loosely. The man’s intentions were yet unclear, but Lucentius figured he was about to be butchered as well.

“Adepto super hic quod tribuo mihi ansa!” Shouted the Germanian scavenger in his Latin tongue.
(“Get over here and give me a hand!”)

The other two stubbornly got up and grunted with frustration as they walked over. The scavenger leaning over Lucentius gave another order.

“Carpo suus feet quod extraho him ut incendia!”
(“Grab his feet and drag him to the fire!”)

Lucentius still hesitated fearing the unsheathed blade, still poised in the scavenger’s hand. He then felt the men grab his feet and drag him, and the thought of being eaten by cannibals tortured his mind.

Still in grave pain from his crash earlier, Lucentius knew his time was nearing its end. He soon felt the warmth of the fire’s heat, and the men through his legs down. The other spoke again.

“Vertiscus , habitum legs , Commius , carpo telum quod traho lemma tergum. Vos duos melior servo him etiam!”
(“Vertiscus, hold the legs, Commius, grab the arms and pull them back. You two better keep him still!”)

Lucentius held his breath and time seemed to stop. His vague understanding of the Barbaric Latin tongue was all he needed, for he understood he was about to be diced into pieces. A single tear then softly rolled down his cheek while his family’s faces appeared in his thoughts. He saw his beautiful wife kneeling by the garden as she turned her head and smiled at him. His children were playing in the field, vast and green, and full of white Lilacs. Then he suddenly saw his wife’s attention turn to the road as Roman soldiers were viciously charging in. She ran toward the kids, but was brought to a rough halt when a spear impaled her calf. His wife’s excruciating cry echoed through his soul, and his fear rapidly dissipated.

Lucentius instantly became enraged once more and his strength quickly returned. The Germanian Vertiscus then grabbed hold of his ankles, and Lucentius quickly opened his eyes. Commius noticed this and was about to react when Lucentius painfully gripped his testicals, and pulled as hard as he could. The Germanian screeched and fell to his knees while the other two surprisingly watched. With no time to pause, Lucentius hastily through his foot into Vertiscus’s jaw, shooting his head straight back, and throwing him off his feet. The other Germanian with the knife quickly attacked but missed as Lucentius rolled out of the way. He struggled to rise to his feet as pain shot up his legs, but still, he could not hesitate. The man with the knife began edging forward slowly as Lucentius wiped the blinding blood from his face.

“Please stop, take anything, I have no wish to fight you.” Pleaded Lucentius as his mind was to his family.

However the Barbarian kept edging forward and the other two were getting up.

“Please! I beg you. Stop!” Lucentius had his hands up as he pleaded, but it was a useless motion.

“Vestri lacuna es nequam Romanorum! EGO contemno vestri pius!”
(“Your words are worthless Roman! I despise your kind.”) The Germanian understood Lucentius’s words, but cared not.

Lucentius suddenly began to prepare himself for the worst, arching his back, and holding his arms outward. The other two had now gotten up and without hesitation, quickly darted toward Lucentius. Vertiscus drove himself into Lucentius’s stomach and Lucentius quickly through his arms around the mans body while stuttering backward. Commius simultaneously rushed in and swung at Lucentius face, giving birth to yet another bloody gash. Lucentius’s head snapped backward and he temporarily became stunned, falling onto his back. Vertiscus, still around Lucentius’s stomach, violently began slamming his fists into Lucentius’s chest, causing blood to fly from his mouth.

For a moment it seemed like Lucentius was gone. Fist after fist, he began slipping away, and as blackness fell over, all he could see was his family’s disappointed faces. Then an added shot of pain surged through his body when the mans fist cracked a rib. Lucentius’s wife’s face appeared one more time, and at that moment, he lost it.

“AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!” Lucentius screamed at the top of his lungs as he forced himself up to a sitting position.

Vertiscus was suddenly stopped, as he could not contain Lucentius’s rage. The two of them tumbled around rolling over and under each other, yelling and grunting. Without care, the other two Germanian’s stood and watched and awaited their chance to jump in. As they laughed away, their eyes suddenly widened when Lucentius gained the upper hand, and rolled on top of Vertiscus. Like a fierce wolf, Lucentius bit into the mans throat, tearing and ripping until his flesh tore clean off. Vertiscus grabbed his wound but could not contain it as blood sprayed from it like a fountain. Lucentius staggered up to his feet one more time as Vertiscus’s blood dripped from his mouth. With out warning, he was immediately smashed into from behind as Commius dove into his back. As they hit the ground, they wrestled for a bit, and ended with Lucentius on top, and Commius holding his arms from underneath. Lucentius then began head butting Commius’s face as he heard many cracks and breaks. The brutality was extreme as Commius tried to plea for his life, but was unable to speak as his face was caving in. Still, with the groaning sounds coming from Commius, Lucentius continued.

“AHHHH” Screamed Lucentius. *Smash* “AHHHHH” *Smash* “AHHHHHH” *Smash, smash, smash*

Lucentius finally stopped when he noticed his arms were no longer being held; the man was dead. Next to Commius’s brutalized face, he saw a good size rock lying on the ground. Quickly he picked it up palming it with one hand, and turning to his last enemy.

“Come on!” Lucentius motioned the man over, but he just stood there. “What are you waiting for? Attack!”

The Germanian didn’t move. The display in which Lucentius had just put on astounded the man, and he found himself admiring him.

“EGO have nunquam seen a Romanorum per talis saevio quod perturbatio. Vos planto a ferus compositus tener unus quod iuguolo vos EGO mos non.”
(“I have never seen a Roman with such rage and passion. You make a fierce match young one and kill you I will not.”)

The Germanian slowly re-sheathed his knife and began to walk back toward his horse. Lucentius was stunned for a second as he tried to make out what the man had said. But matter it did not, for the Germanian was already retreating. Luckily, the other two who lied dead had horses as well, and as soon as the other one was out of sight, Lucentius would continue to his home, although finding the strength to mount a horse would be another journey all in its own. As he stood there bearing the pain that was now excruciating, he glanced back over to his horse where his gear was still set. As he slowly limped over while holding his rib and still bleeding from his face, he knelt down beside his poor horse that suffered immensely and said his farewells.

“Farewell my old friend” Lucentius was patting the dead animals nose. “You were a fine horse, suitable for any Emperor. Take care”

Lucentius then grabbed the rest of his gear, and made his way to the Germanian’s steed. With his last breath of strength, he galloped off.

* * *

As his children ran about, rolling and jumping through the grass, their giant Poplar in the front of their house gave much cooling shade. His wife was in the garden, planting new seeds of various sorts, and picking numerous herbs and flowers to display in their home. His land was sizeable to say the least. Over 200 acres of flowing grass and flowers combined with a beautiful brook that ran along side the tree line, also apart of their land. The brook flowed all the way from Mount Vesuvius and continued straight by their house always providing the essentials for survival.

As his beautiful wife Julia finished up her duties for the day, she took a peek toward the road. Her children were to her right as they continued to play under the huge tree. She brushed her long dark hair as the wind carried by, but this day it was different as it housed an unusual scent. Something unique she thought as she squinted her eyes to see further down the road. The children suddenly stopped and stood completely still as the ground began to shake. His wife Julia quickly glanced over, but the kids were still there. She then looked back to the road as her hair swung around, and they were much closer, charging at an incredible speed. Her husband, she asked herself as her dimples widened. She then waved her two children Lucius who was 16(boy) and Lucretia who was 8 (girl) over to her side as she rapped her arm around them both.

“Is it father mother?” Happily and eagerly asked Lucius.

“I’m not sure Lucius, it appears to be him. Just wait my darling.” She replied, as she was unsure of the whole situation. Lucius was always cunning and brave like his father, constantly practicing and learning the ways of the sword.

As they continued to wait, Lucretia raised her hand and waved. She was as happy as ever, jumping and smiling and laughing, unaware of any possible danger as her young mind was always to fun.

“Platius, there!” Stated one of the assassins.

“Its them!” Shouted Platius as his voice was barely heard over the thunderous hooves. “Men, you have your orders. Attack!” Ordered Platius.

At that time, one of the assassins lifted his bow off his back and positioned it for firing. The unit was still charging toward the family at this time making it difficult to take aim for an effective shot. As he steadied himself, the closer they got, and Julia suddenly caught a glimpse.

“CHILDREN, RUN!” She screamed in terror finally realizing it was not her husband.

“Momma?” Cried the little girl, as she did not understand her mother’s reaction.

The assassin’s arm slowly pulled back as he held his breath. His eye was fixed on Lucius, as he was 16, and able to fight. He paused, catching the best angle, and all of a sudden, his fingers let loose. The arrow sprung out from the bow and ripped through the warm air, seeking its target.

Julia was now running with Lucius ahead and Lucretia in her arms. Lucius reached the front door to their house and as he turned to help his mother, he saw it hit. His heart died, and he let out an awful cry.

“Momma, noooooooooooo!” Lucius cried as he ran to them.
_ _ _ _ _ _

“HA, did you see that? Two with one arrow.” Cheered the assassin.
_ _ _ _ _ _

The arrow was merciless as it struck straight through. Julia gasped for air as she slowed her pace and came to a stop, falling to her knees. She looked down at Lucretia who was motionless to try to let her go so she could run. But as Julia tried to push her away, she wouldn’t move from her chest, something was holding her there. Julia then realized that the arrow also impaled her gorgeous daughter as she reached her hand around and felt the razor sharp tip through her stomach, soaked in blood and flesh.

“Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!” Julia screamed as tears poured down her face. “Lucretia wake up! Wake up!” Julia tried to awaken Lucretia, but it was useless as she was already at the verge of death.

“Mo..m..ma…”

She glanced down one more time to try to get her off, but the blood had now engulfed them both in a large puddle. Lucius was panicking not knowing what to do, but was too late as the assassins were upon them.

“LUCIUS! GO, FIND YOUR FATHER!” Julia screamed one more time as Platius and the assassins reached them.

Three of the assassins jumped off their steeds and plucked the arrow out of her back.

“Aauughh.” Moaned Julia in pure agony. Julia then fell forward with Lucretia still in her arms and Lucius took off and into the house.

As one of the assassins grabbed her hair and pulled her head back, she screamed one more time, and slipped away.

“Luuuuucaaaaaiussss!” She was gone.
(Lucaius)

The assassin then let her lifeless head slam into the ground, and he looked to Platius.

“You three, sever her limbs and place them on pikes, the rest of us will fetch the young lad in the house.” Ordered Platius. “When your finished with her, rap thorns around the little ones neck, and hang her from that Poplar there.” Platius was pointing to giant Poplar in the front of the house.

Inside, Lucius had already retrieved Lucaius’s old gladius. The young warrior was crying consistently, but remained strong and kept quiet. Platius was now entering the house ever so stealthily as he feared the son of Lucaius Decimus.

“Come out young one, we have no meaning to harm you.” Spoke Platius as he lied through his teeth.

As they entered the main room, Platius secretly signalled two of the men to move down the hall as he and the other made their way to the cooking area. The house was silent and still, and Lucius was unseen.

“Com’out child, we have somtin for ya.” Softly said one of the assassins who was working his way down the hall.

The house consisted of 7 rooms. As you walked in the front door, you were greeted by the main dining room, and if you kept on walking, you would reach the kitchen. To the right of the dining room was the door to the bathing area, which was supplied by the brook next to the house. If you were to walk past that door, you find yourself starring down a long hall. On the left side was a door also connecting you to the kitchen, and on the right was the children’s room, consisting of two beds, dressers and various toys. When following the hall past the kid’s room, you would come to Lucaius and Julia’s room, which was huge and housed a balcony door going to the backyard. Next to their room was the last, Lucaius’s office and study, which is where Lucius retrieved his father’s sword, and was awaiting the men.

Lucius heard the assassin call out, and knew he was only a few feet away. He quietly positioned himself against the wall right next to the door and prepared to attack, tears still falling. As the assassin approached, he paused and gestured for the other one to check the main bedroom. Then he again quietly proceeded to enter the study, and was suddenly halted when Lucius swung around and stuck him through the gut. The large assassin quickly grabbed Lucius by the throat as he started to fall.

“Ughhh!” He cried out as blood fell from his bottom lip.

The assassin in the main bedroom heard the commotion and quickly rushed out to the hall, but was too late as Lucius was already running toward the front door.

“Platius!” He yelled fearing the boys escape.

Platius curiously poked his head around the kitchen corner to see what the problem was, and there escaping, was Lucius. Platius immediately chased after him as Lucius swung open the door, and ran out. The three men outside fortunately were at the giant Poplar preparing Lucius’s sister for the worst, and had no idea that he was escaping.

“Men! He’s getting away!” Yelled Platius as Lucius jumped off the doorway and turned to the field behind the house.

As Platius and the other’s gave chase, they soon realized that it was nearly impossible as Lucius was familiar with the area and much faster then them.

“Arrrgghhh! You fools! Where were you?” Shouted Platius.

The assassins didn’t say a thing as they slowly turned in disappointment and continued with Julia and Lucretia. Platius stood there for a moment taking in the air and contemplating his next move. His failure would not go unpunished should he return with the bad news, and for that, he decided to lie. The six assassins carried out the rest of their orders as instructed, and when they were finished, they burnt Lucaius’s house to the ground. Unfortunately for them, the fire they lit was done so very poorly, that only half the house burnt down, leaving the evidence of the dead assassin for anyone to discover.

Lucius had now reached the other side of the field and consumed himself into the woods. Finally he stopped and took a breath, tears were still falling. He turned and peered toward his home and saw the flames and black smoke. Suddenly he fell off his feet and through his head between his legs. As he sat there pounding the dirt, he decided he would wait until the men were gone, and would go back.

TO BE CONTINUED. . . . .