Lupus Romanus


:::::: Territory of the Irminones, Germania Magna ::::::


The praetorian column stretched westwards in the dawn, marching out from the encampment of the Northern Army to retake its position in the rearguard of the army. Sunlight dappled across the roads surface and there was a distinct crispness in the morning air. There were fewer signs of the encroaching war that consumed Germania Magna here and Calidus Raeus Vitellius reflected on that wryly. But for the war, it would be a pleasant morning to be out in the forest.

Still, this war was rapidly turning into a nightmare scenario for Raeus. He was still with Proconsular Legate Laenas Iovinianus Vallentinus’ Army of the North, though he was little more than a passenger. Iovinianus did not ask his advice or counsel, nor did he attempt to issue any orders to the Praetorians. And so the black armored Imperial guards were left to Raeus’ command, he had taken the task of trying to ensure the line of communication, and retreat he reflected darkly, remained open as long as possible. Still, he did not have enough men to operate in an isolated fashion and so each evening he was forced to retire to the main army’s encampment. He also wanted to remain close to Iovinianus as much as possible. He still hoped to talk the errant proconsular legate down, or be nearby if matters began to get out of hand.

As he rode besides the column of men, Raeus spotted a small group of officers gathered around something by the roadside. The praetorian prefect spotted Legate Laenas Maxentius Volusius amongst the men and summoning an aide to take the reins of his horse, he dismounted to join them. Maxentius saw him approaching and nodded a starched greeting, although he opened his body to allow Raeus to stand in the circle of a couple of staff officers and two legionnaires. Once he did, Raeus could finally see that which these men were staring at; a grisly sight that set Raeus’ teeth on edge.

A dead legionnaire lay naked, flat on his back besides the roadway; only identifiable as a former Roman soldier by the tattoo of his legion on his shoulder. It was virtually the only area of skin not marked with wounds. The man had clearly suffered horribly before he died. Both arms and legs were broken and his eyes were missing as were all his fingers and toes. Despite this the most revolting sight was that he had been castrated and the organs stuffed into his mouth while his tongue had been cut out, drenching the center of his chest with blood.

Raeus looked down sadly at the man. A moment passed before Maxentius quietly spoke. “This isn’t the first of these cases I’ve heard about. They’ve apparently been finding bodies like this along the frontier.”

“Any idea how these men are getting isolated?” Raeus furrowed his brow.

Maxentius shook his head. “No. They have no actual need to leave the camp and yet every so often they appear one by one like this. It worries me at how close the enemy may be.”

Raeus looked up into the trees, as if expecting to see a horde of Goths waiting out there. “Indeed. We’ve probably been tracked for some time.” he straightened and wiped the back of his hand over his mouth. “I think it would be prudent to keep this body hidden from the men.”

Still seemingly entranced by the legionnaires’ wretched remains, Maxentius raised his eyebrows. “Really?” he paused. “I think the proconsular legate would find this useful propaganda to motivate the men.”

Raeus shot a sideways glance at the legate, who finally drew his eyes off the body and nodded. “But I agree. We’ll deal with it and hope it doesn’t get too much.”

Smiling weakly, Raeus stepped back from the circle to rejoin the column. A few Praetorians eyes wandered to the right and onto the fallen body. “Eyes front!” Raeus bellowed, and the men instantly obeyed snapping to attention. He could suddenly see the war spiraling away from him at once; downwards into barbarity and reprisals and chaos.

And he hated it.

**********

Tribune Cassius Claviticus smiled evilly at the scene before him. The Irminonian village burned brightly in the morning light, plumes of black smoke leapt high into the blue skies above as the legionnaires fired the settlement. The locals had all been rounded up, at least those women and children who had not had time to escape before the Roman cavalry had encircled the settlement, and assembled in the centre of the burning settlement. Many wailed and moaned, weeping with fear. Stories of other settlements had spread quickly through out the Irminones lands which explained almost no resistance. Hearing the tales of the Suevi and Rugians the people knew they were all doomed.

Cassius turned from the scene and made for his senior centurion. It was time to get done here, just in case the fires attracted any nearby Irminones warriors out of hiding. He was comfortable with the force he had but didn’t believe in taking chances. He drew his gladius which provoked another outburst of screams from the civilians who cowered away from him.

“Let’s get done with this,” he spoke to the centurion, who drew his sword as well. They were interrupted by a legionnaire who double timed to the men and saluted briskly.

“Praetorians, sir.” the legionnaire said quickly, motioning to the nearby trees from which emerged a column of praetorian guardsmen.

The tribune looked irritably at the approaching troops and the mounted praetorian prefect who led the column. “Let’s see what he wants.” he said as he strode out with his centurion whilst his men kept an eye on the civilians over their blades.

The tribune greeted Raeus saluting, “Prefect.”

Raeus looked out at the scene before him with a vague sneer on his face. “Tribune, you and your men are to stand down and return to camp.”

Claviticus looked surprised. “I cannot, sir. We have been ordered to fire the settlement and… remove the population.” he paused “as per the wishes of Proconsular Legate Vallentinus.”

“And I am ordering you to stand down.” Raeus growled at the young officer.

The young tribune was angry. He enjoyed his work somewhat and was very methodical; he disliked interruptions and disturbance in it. He looked at the prefect with distain not bothering to hide it. Rumors of the differences between the proconsular legate and the praetorian prefect had already spread throughout the army and it was no secret the two clearly butted heads on many occasions. “Sir, I have my orders and I feel it would be a dereliction of duty to abandon them.”

Raeus looked hard at the men and the Irminonian civilians cowering in the town center. He spoke quietly and fiercely between gritted teeth. “Tribune, you shall not proceed with your orders. These civilians are to be taken as slaves by my men. As such they are no longer part of your orders. Congratulations on a job well done tribune, as all other civilians have been removed.” he looked back down at the tribune, glaring into his eyes, “You can complain of this course of action to your commander if you wish but there shall be no more killing here today.”

The tribune thought for a moment looking on the Prefect’s hard, measured gaze. Scowling, he nodded. “Very well, sir. I shall of course mention it to my commander.” he then signaled his men, who, somewhat surprised, drew back and withdrew.

The prefect then turned to one of his tribunes. “Germanicus secure those civilians. They are to come back to camp with us and kept secure by our men only.”

The eldest son of Emperor Pompeius Varro nodded. “Aye sir.” Looking to the praetorians in the column he barked orders to his men who quickly secured the civilians. As they went to their task he came up beside his prefect and spoke quietly, “I didn’t think he’d accept the order for a moment, sir.”

Raeus sighed. It had been a small gesture, perhaps of proud defiance but he could not sit idly by. “Nor did I. Iovinianus will not be happy but I won’t stand by and accept the loss of our civilization only because the Germans don’t have any of their own. There shall be a reckoning tribune, and I will not sacrifice my honor killing unarmed civilians.

That night Iovinianus went through his evening reports as usual. The legates presented the information of the day’s events and they would then try to plot on the map the locations of each legion and make plans for the next days march. There had been no word for many days of the Emperor’s army, communications across Germania Magna were now impossible, so messages had to go back around the upper Rhine and Danube and through Gaul, presenting a time delay that made active planning with the Emperor’s forces impossible.

Iovinianus smiled at the progress of the campaign; the Germanic tribes were being flushed out, and the clearing of settlements made sure that there was little to worry about in the protection of their lines of communication.

He scanned the faces of the legates present as they gave their reports. All seemed delighted with their progress and the work of the campaign. The morale was high and Iovinianus now was very happy that the army was more firmly behind him than ever; the only thorn in his side being the praetorian prefect.

The proconsular legate smiled to himself. The prefect still insisted on attending the war councils each evening, although he would simply sit quietly by, taking everything in, but not giving any account of his own actions. He would then simply leave once matters turned away from military affairs and his praetorians would disappear each morning before the reveille for the other men. He knew the prefect was watching him and observing all and that he disapproved of his actions.

He had heard reports of Raeus ordering down some of his officers from their duties but he cared little. He was not going to have another confrontation with the prefect, at least not one with others around, and so ignored these little issues. Iovinianus let him have his small victories because he knew he was being slowly proved right; the Gods were with him.


:::::: The Next Morning ::::::


“Mercy! I beg, please! Mercy! Oh Frigg please save us!” an Irminonian woman begged, her hands bound as she was dragged against her will into a group of others.

“My lord, we mean you no harm!” pleaded an elderly chief as he was pushing along by legionnaires. “Please take what you will of our possessions, take our gold our food stuffs but please, I beg you…let us be in peace.” the chief said falling to his knees and clutching the boots and blue cloak Iovinianus wore.

Iovinianus looking darkly upon the elderly chief who spoke to him in broken decent Latin, he replied, “Quos damno, vinco.”

The elderly chief’s eyes went white and his heart sank as the words echoed in his head, ‘I condemn those who I crush.’ As his lips trembled he was suddenly grabbed from the neck of his garment and dragged away by a legionnaire, kicking and still vainly begging.

Iovinianus watched with dead eyes as the legionnaire who dragged the chieftain away then stood over him with his gladius drawn and as the old man raised his hands to plead the legionnaire gutted him, his body shaking and trembling as his life faded from this world.

Cries and pleas were being heard off to his side which Iovinianus now watched. Captured men with bound hands were forced on their knees and their heads placed on tree stumps. They thrashed and yelled but it did them little good. Each was beheaded; one, by one. Their heads were then made into a triangular mound in the village center as a warning to others that this would be the price for those who would dare to cross Rome. Iovinianus walked slowly now, watching his personal legion II Ioviniana Lupae Barbaricorum commit the terrible deeds. While he systematically killed all the men he came across, he had ordered that all the female children be taken as slaves and sent them home as spoils of war. The male children, however he had killed as well, to illustrate his wish to completely destroy their bloodline so they could not continue it. Most of the women were forced into slavery as well, many performing tasks immediately and the most chosen task was to please his soldiers. Tied to wooden boards the women, mainly the younger unspoiled virgins, were raped and abused. Others forced to prostitute themselves to his legions or face death by the sword. Taking in everything around him he sighed softly and spoke aloud to himself, “I am what I am…”

Legate Flavius Iudicius walked over to his commander, a broad grin across his face as the village around them was set ablaze; the fate of every village they came across which seemed to be all of Germania Magna sine the sky was filled with bubbling black smoke in all directions. Stopping to salute his commander he waited for Iovinianus to acknowledge it before speaking. “My lord, I have something for you.”

Looking curiously at him he held a cautious smile before looking down at his legates’ open palm which held a small note. Taking it in hand he read it, laughing a bit as he was quite amused by its content.

“You can’t be serious?” he asked in a jestful manner.

“I am sir. The men have all started to call you that since the battle with the Suevi some weeks ago. All you have done since is tenaciously search out every rotten hole that these wretches could hide in and exterminate them.” Flavius stated, speaking of what it said.

Iovinianus looked back at the note and nodded with smiling approval. “So I am being called, ‘the Wolf’ now, hmm?”

Flavius stood with his hands on his hips, smiling at his commander.

“Well then, inform the legions I am honored by their name for me and I promise to live up to it.” Iovinianus said proudly.

“I will sir.” Flavius commented before saluting his commander and walking off.

Iovinianus smiled again to himself now walking back to his large command tent; the pleas and cries of the Irminones to be killed very clear in his ears, but he ignored it, acting like he could not hear it.

Coming into his command tent he was greeted by his aide, Secondus Kaeso Caecilianus.

“Sir, I took the liberty of going ahead and signing your name to the requests from the supply columns pertaining to their recommendations for security.” he stated as he held a bunch of papers and dispatches in hand.

Iovinianus smiled, “Thank you Kaeso. Is there anything important I should know about?”

“Uh…” Kaeso started to leaf through what was in his hands. “…there is a dispatch from Emperor Dio…” he paused “…here.” he stopped and handed the dispatch to him. “As well as a letter from your wife…” he trailed off looking for that now, almost dropping the pile of papers, “…here.”

Iovinianus simply smiled at his aide, his diligence as a staff officer was impeccable but he was quite clumsy.

“Anything else Kaeso?” the proconsular legate asked, the dispatch and letter in his hand.

“Yes one last thing,” he paused and turned to the red haired girl off to the side in an adjacent section of the giant tent, “this is more of a personal opinion sir but I do not think you should allow her to be unsupervised.”

“Oh?” Iovinianus asked. “And why’s that?”

“Well sir, she’s an Irminonian and frankly she’s potentially dangerous. The last thing we need is to find you dead.” Kaeso said worried about his commander. “With all due respect sir, why did you even accept her?”

Iovinianus walked toward the young red headed girl who looked up at the men and coiled herself up a little, afraid of them, before resuming her work.

“Well first off tribune, I accepted her because the other tribunes gave her to me as a gift. Apparently she was the only red head they came across from all of the villages in her people’s territory so they thought her a nice gift. If I refused I ran the risk of insulting them so I accepted her.” he sat down behind his desk and looked over at her then back at Kaeso. “She’s quite harmless. Acts like a deer startled by a noise in the woods really, I doubt she would hurt an ant let alone me.”

Kaeso was content with the answer but he had to ask more, “Permission to speak freely sir?”

“Granted.” Iovinianus said, as he turned to a servant and signaled for him to bring him something to drink.

“What of the Ducissa?” Kaeso asked.

Iovinianus sighed for a moment. He knew Kaeso had originally been attached to the late Emperor Suetonius Valens Piso and then became one of his wife’s best aides before he became part of his own staff; so Kaeso obviously was concerned about his commanders’ actions with some Germanic slave while on campaign.

“Kaeso, you know as well as I do my feelings for my wife. I told you, I took that girl only because I would have insulted the officers. The whole time in my company all I have had her do is make and prepare animal skins for my father in law and his wife.” he paused, a bit frustrated to be questioned by his aide, “If you don’t trust me go over there, have her bend over so you can examine her and you’ll see she hasn’t been touched.”

Kaeso looked quite embarrassed and then guilty. “Sir…” he began in a low tone, his head lowered. “…I did not mean to imply…”

Iovinianus waved his hand that he was done with the conversation. A servant now brought him his drink, some beer in a goblet, as he lifted the dispatch from the emperor.

“That will be all Kaeso.” Iovinianus informed him, a bit of annoyance in his voice.

“Yes sir!” Kaeso said with a loud voice, crisply saluting his commander before turning to leave.

As he read the Imperial dispatch he huffed and shook his head in frustration before tossing it to the side. He sighed loudly and rubbed his right eye and took a drink of the beer which he could tell had been brewed locally; apparently some of the spoils his men had seized. Beer was normally a drink that most Romans shunned and looked at as inferior to wine and only fit for barbarians. Iovinianus in his time in the north had come to acquire a taste for the liquid so he did not mind it. Although he would never drink it if offered good wine he liked having it on campaigns since it made him remember he was no longer home where civilization was, but at war amongst savages. He reminded himself of that with each drink he took. Quenching his thirst, he next began to read the letter from his wife. A smile appeared on his face, but it soon turned sour as he read the entirety of the letter. It did not contain bad news; yet his emotions compelled him to feel sour as he thought of his wife and daughters. The thought of not completing the campaign and having to suffer through another Gothic War, one possibly while his girls were older and married to soldier themselves, filled him with resolve to see this war through no matter what. He lowered the letter on his desk and then turned to the slave girl who shared his company. He quietly watched her work; the tent so quiet he could hear centurions many yards away outside issuing orders and directing troops. He finally spoke up, in the only Germanic tongue he knew, that being the northern one which he believed she spoke.

“What is your name girl?” he asked.

The girl stopped and looked up cautiously toward the Roman. “Kelda… my lord.” she quietly answered. He was right. He would have to investigate the other languages but he was pleased he could converse with her.

“How old are you?” he asked, now interested in his company.

“I shall be fifteen this winter if my lord allows me.” she replied in a trembling voice; quite afraid she would die before she reached her next birthday.

Iovinianus smiled at her a little, folding his hands. “If I wanted you dead, you would be so.” He paused for a few minutes taking another drink of the Germanic beer before speaking to her again, his pause allowing her to resume her work. “Tell me Kelda, what languages can you speak?”

She hesitated a little before responding, brushing some of her hair from her face as she did so, “I speak my people’s tongue and very broken Latin my lord.”

Iovinianus cocked an eyebrow. “How did you come to pick up some Latin?”

“My father is…” she paused, her lips now trembling and she sniffed a little. It was obvious Iovinianus’ men had killed her father just recently which explained her reaction. “…my father was a merchant. He sold animal skins and pieces of amber to markets in Roman Belgica.” she stammered out, her voice cracking as if she was ready to burst into tears; yet she regained her composure. Slowly she wiped her tears from her eyes and resumed her work.

Waiting a few moments to get the awkward situation past, Iovinianus took a few more drinks from his goblet before placing it down on his desk and asking the girl more questions.

“Is making animal skins all you can do Kelda?” Iovinianus asked with genuine curiosity.

She stopped and looked up shyly. “No.” she paused. “I learned this to help my father. Normally I would make money for the family in the beer hall as a bard, singing stories of great warriors or dead heroes.” she answered.

Iovinianus crossed his arms and leaned back, eying Kelda which made her uncomfortable and quite shy. “Please Kelda…” he began. “…sing me a tale.”

Kelda became shy but afraid at the same time of what punishment may await her if she refused. Her father had always told her terrible things Romans did to their slaves and so she wished to avoid any punishment; being very obedient and as coy as she could. So clearing her throat, she began to softly sing a heroic poem; the melody very somber and dark.

“Once were the Irminones, in past days gone,
with their kings who held greatness and power, tell of Sword Weohstan.
Æthling of Heorogeard, strongest of men,
who would lead us to prominent glory, mighty Sword Weohstan.
Blessed with courageousness, from Lord Tiewaz,
he fought great ones with divine dominion, men of Cruel Wonred.
Æthling of Heorogeard, first of heroes,
who slew evil men had judgment from above, O hope-filled Wurdiz.
Treacherously used by evil, love was his bane,
he came to trust her honored graceful voice, kin to Hateful Wonred.
Æthling of Heorogeard, taken by fate,
his great works are now retold eternally, sung by we his bloodline…”

Her quiet voice soon picked up as she began the actual narrative of the tale. Slowly she shed her shyness and she sang with passion; the story coming alive as she used her arms and hands and body motions to express various aspects of the story.

Iovinianus found himself quite engulfed in the story but he admitted to himself that while the story was good, it was Kelda which made it captivating and worth listening too. He quickly realized why this had been her profession and she only assisted her father as a trapper and merchant; her voice was divine.

She sang her tale for hours, not finishing until it was nearing sunset. Iovinianus had not moved the entire time and had actually sent away and silenced servants and aides who came to see him, not wishing to be taken away from the story. When she had finished he quietly spoke to her, “Kelda…” he began trailing off still lost in thought “that was a very remarkable tale.”

She bowed her head slightly, her voice tired as she looked for some water. “Thank you milord.” she paused, “May I be granted some water.”

“Of course.” Iovinianus turned to those who had been standing there and awaiting his pleasure. He ignored Kaeso and another tribune looking at a servant, instructing, “Please bring the young lady some ice water and I more drink.”

Kaeso cleared his throat as the servant darted out, trying to get his commander’s attention.

Iovinianus frowned, visibly not wishing to deal with anything at the moment, “Yes Kaeso. What can I do for you?”

“Well sir I felt that I should tell you that Legate Daratius Antonius Terpus and his force has returned from the operation against the Rugians in the north.” he informed his proconsular legate.

“Excellent, I trust these are the reports from the tribunes on his performance?” Iovinianus said taking papers from his aide and looking them up and down.

“Yes commander.” he answered.

He stood up and walked to the front of his desk near some chairs, nodding and looking over some of the papers. “Please send for the general. I wish to speak with him.”

“At once sir.” Kaeso replied before saluting to leave.

As Kaeso left and before another tribune could make a comment, the Praetorian Prefect, Calidus Raeus Vitellius stormed into the command tent. His blood boiling he ignored the protestations of the aides outside, pushing a guard to one side who tried to stop him. Iovinianus, surprised at the interruption, was quickly shoved backwards into a chair by the prefect. Raeus roared, “What in the name of the Gods is this!” his finger pointing outside. Obviously the prefect had just heard and come upon the actions Legi I Barbaricorum and II Ioviniana Lupae Barbaricorum were committing; not to mention the fact the other legions were partaking in some of ‘entertainment’ of captured women.

Iovinianus stared in shock, taken aback by the actions of Raeus. He was not alone the others in the command tent also were quite surprised by the outburst. A few servants had stepped back in fear and guards now came into the tent, their intent very clear should their commander order it.

Iovinianus then calmed and waved his guards away, their hands on the hilts of their blades, as well as the others in the tent save the servants. He then stood up, fixed himself up as he looked directly into the prefect’s eyes and then walked around his desk to his normal chair taking a seat and propping his feet up on the desk. Taking a goblet in his hand he took a drink of the beer it held before placing it back on the desk; intertwining his fingers and letting them rest on his stomach he asked very nicely, “Can I help you Raeus?”

Raeus with rage in his eyes stepped forward and backhanded the goblet of beer off the desk before turning away to calm himself. The action surprised the few servants and even Kelda in the adjacent area. She understood only a few words in Latin, but you did not need to comprehend the words to know what was happening. Having somewhat relaxed, he turned back at the proconsular legate.

Glaring at him he spoke through gritted teeth, “The abuse of the civilian population will stop immediately, proconsular legate. We are the guardians of civilization, and I am seeing legionnaires behaving like animals.” he briefly paused and added with great effect, “Animals!”

Iovinianus cleared his throat a bit and snapped his fingers to a servant who quickly brought him another goblet of beer which he held this time in his hand.

“Please Raeus, sit down.” he commented, motioning with his free hand at a chair. “You look parched. May I offer you some refreshment? Perhaps some lemon water since...” he trailed off a little looking down at the ground where the first goblet of beer lay before looking back up at Raeus adding, “...you don't like beer.”

Raeus glared hard at the proconsular legate. “I do not want a drink. I demand that you stop this abuse of women and children at once. They are women and children, perhaps not Romans but unarmed civilians nonetheless, and your men are violating and killing them per your orders!”

Iovinianus sighed. “I can see you're upset. So I will explain my actions.” he said, his voice very calm and normal, like nothing was wrong.

“Sometimes Raeus we must do things that normally, we would never conceive of doing under normal circumstances.” he began. “To fight animals, we must become animals. I doubt that most proper Romans could even conceive of the idea or actions I have ordered let alone do them. We must send a clear message, that for those who cross Rome, the payment will be very grave. Sadly killing only goes so far. I think the emotional and psychological aspects of warfare go much further especially when we commit such acts as you saw my men working toward.” he paused for a moment, raising the goblet of beer to his face but not drinking, “Let them hate us, so long as they fear us.” he stating before taking the drink.

Iovinianus was silent for a brief moment before continuing, “We must do terrible things Raeus to protect those we love.” Iovinianus placed the goblet down and the desk and dropping his feet he leaned forward, determination in his eyes as he stared as his comrade. “I’ll be damned, if my daughters will one day have to suffer and mourn the loss of husbands who died here in Germania Magna fighting Goths and other savages because their father did not finish what Rome started.” he finished, his voice quite clear to his intent.

“Reprisals...” Raeus spat, “they will hate us Iovinianus and they will come back because of that. Every conquest we have had has been by Romanizing peoples,” he paused “why does this change!? Why must we be the ones reduced to the lowest of the low! You leave the honor of Roman amidst this burning land.”

“What prevents reprisals is what we do after the war. Think about it Raeus.” he stated, “If we just walked in here and left everyone be, they would not fear us. Some upstart could raise a rebellion against our dominion and attack us because there is nothing to hold these savages back. People's hearts are fickle, fear is not. Remember that. If you are benevolent to them they praise and love you, but should a challenger come against them they fear for their lives and may not be there to help. If they fear you though, then they will surely act because if they do not they know the consequences.” Iovinianus took a breath, “"I would like to point out my friend that Roman Germania, as well as Gallia and Macedonia were all taken in roughly the same manner as this.” he said pointing outside toward the atrocities he had ordered. Calmly leaning back in his chair and propping his feet back up he added, “Look at them now.” before raising the goblet of beer to his mouth and drinking some more.

“What if they were your children, your daughters?” Raeus attacked. “I do not know what honor for family you have left,” Raeus stated, directing his words to the red-headed Irminonian off to the side. His words and motions making her cower from the fearsome looking soldier since he was obviously speaking about her, “but it would make me want to fight all the harder for it.”

Iovinianus simply eyed his comrade. “Raeus, can you not see? Already I have saved Roman lives. Because of my actions against the Suevi civilians the Irminones abandoned their lands in droves, running into the forests and hills and taking refuge in shoddy kale’s scattered around this land. We do not have to fight them. How many men do you think would have died otherwise had we fought? How many Roman wives would now be widows had I not done what I did?” Iovinianus answered in his defense, his voice a bit angry but still calm and controlled. “You may hate my actions but even you must agree that I have saved the lives of men in this army.”

Raeus huffed at the comment, not replying in words.

“And that girl...” he said pointing to Kelda “…was a gift the tribunes gave me. Do not fret for I love my wife dearly. All I've had her do is make some garments, fix an animal skin or two or tell me tales of Germanic lore.” he paused “She's a bard coincidentally with a heavenly voice.”

“Excellent.” Raeus replied; his voice loaded with scorn and his face displaying a sarcastic grin. “…and how many Romans did you save due to your dealing with the Suevi Iovinianus? I have heard of what happened in your ‘negotiations’.” Raeus asked, his words dripping with sarcasm.

Iovinianus could not help but smile at the mention of his the negotiations with the nobles.

“Well...” Iovinianus began with a grin, “…I did that for a reason. The emperor wanted us to link up with his forces. The Suevi would not let us pass and threatened force if we did not return to back over the Rhine. So, with that knowledge I thought why not make them so cross with me that they'll charge.” he paused, quite pleased with himself. “And like the good barbarians they are, they did. Lost all order and cohesion and were mopped up by my men.” he placed his hand behind his head and smiled up at Raeus, “If you didn’t hear, we killed almost seventeen thousand. As I stated before, such a complete victory, makes later battles and confrontations easier or nonexistent, since afterall who would want to follow in their footsteps. Best to leave the Romans alone and leave our lands and let them pass unharmed.” Iovinianus stated, trying to give the impression that was what other peoples now thought.

Raeus growled in response. “You killed men under a flag of truce. You butcher children and rape women like an animal. These are not the actions of a Roman general!”

Kelda looked cautiously at both men. Their words making no sense to her except for random things here or there but she could tell the tension was in the air. When looked at she quickly went back to her work, hoping not to draw attention to herself.

“Then we have a different definition of what it means to be a Roman general good sir.” Iovinianus said as he took another drink of beer; his feet were still propped up as he crossed one over the other now. “If we were fighting civilized people like the Persians or Seleukids or the Ptolemies I would act much differently. But here Raeus... again I implore you to understand my actions and understand the people we fight. These are not civilized men we fight, oh no. They are savages,” he said, adding emphasis to his point, “and they only understand savagery in return. You gained your fame fighting Persians and Ptolemies in Africa and the East. Good civilized people where actions that I commit were not only out of the question but were inconceivable.”

He now lowered his feet and stood up; taking his drink in hand he walked around his desk and began to motion with his hands.

“Here when a tribe defeats another they extinguish the other tribe’s male bloodline because it is inferior. They do so by killing every male child or selling them into slavery and all women are immediately taken as concubines.” he paused, taking a drink and placing his free hand now on his hip as he stood directly in front of Raeus. “They play by very different rules and a different honor code.” Iovinianus leaned forward and spoke more quietly to Raeus, “For Rome to prevail, we must play by these rules...” Having said that he stepped back and turned around and went to sit back down; with his back still to the prefect he added more reasoning for his actions.

“Take heart my old friend…” Iovinianus said before he sat back down, propping his feet up again. “...you will gain fame for our victories here, but your honor need not be tarnished…” Iovinianus smiled, taking a drink of the beer “because it is me who is committing such acts and not you.”

Raeus sneered with contempt. “You disgust me.” he shook his head slightly, quite angered by it all. “You forget yourself. We do not need to become barbarians because we fight them! I hope you remember this before the final reckoning.” Raeus said before he turned to storm out, drawing his bear skin cloak tighter around him.

Watching him storm out Iovinianus called to him, “Raeus…”

Raeus did not turn, but paused on the threshold of the tent waiting to hear what his old friend had to say.

“Once again, you humble me with your divine honor and code of conduct. If only all men followed such ways.” he paused, careful of his next words. “Tell you what… to ease your concern and perhaps placate your worry I propose something.”

Iovinianus waited momentarily, letting the anticipation sink in just a little.

“I want you to be my second from now on. Surely, your steady counsel to my actions would only better things. Do you not agree?” Iovinianus had a wry grin, “You always seem to be in the rear though hence why I feel you are so upset when you learn of my actions. So would you consider being my second on this campaign? I promise to behave myself and be guided by your wisdom and code in all matters before I issue orders.”

Raeus now turned and answered, “Very well proconsular legate. I shall assist you but in return I ask one thing in return.”

Iovinianus simply stared at him, his silence an indication he wanted the prefect to speak his one condition.

“Stop the abuse of civilians. You have made your name and the Roman name here, if they do not fear us now they never shall.” he paused to add, “End it, stop destroying the people we seek to rule over so utterly.”

Iovinianus rested his hands together and brought them to his chin and mouth so all you saw were his eyes and nose. Thinking it over, he lowered his hands and smiled replying, “So be it.”

Iovinianus then called for his trusted aide Kaeso whom upon entering was told, “Inform the legates that the good praetorian prefect is now my second and that they shall hence forth listen to his commands lest I be there in person myself to override them.” looking at Raeus he continued speaking to Kaeso, “And I believe he wishes to convey his first order so inform them quickly, I would had to have confusion run rampant among the officers.”

Kaeso saluted and then left to his task. Once he had Iovinianus turned back to Raeus. “My friend, on a small side note I can find you a girl who can make you a better bear skin and I'm sure in your care she will be very well taken care of.”

Raeus considered the comment for a second. On the one hand he had no need for a girl, always having abstained himself on campaign and did not wish for any rumors to spread in the camp. On the other hand, the chance to even save one girl from the fates of others he had witnessed compelled him. Sighing heavily he gave in, “Very well.”

“Excellent!” Iovinianus said with a pleased expression. “I shall send an unspoiled one to you immediately.” he paused before adding, “I'm glad we had this conversation Raeus...”

Kaeso then re-entered the tent saluting the prefect, “My lord, most of the tribunes and officers have been informed of your position.”

Raeus turned to the aide. “Very well, inform the officers that all standing orders regarding the butchering and violation of women and children are repealed immediately. This order shall be upheld on pain of death.” his tone firm he looked at Iovinianus as he said the last words of his order, his eyes now boring into those of the proconsular legate.

Kaeso slightly unsure turned to Iovinianus to make sure he wanted this. Iovinianus simply nodded his eyes still on Raeus.

“Yes my lord.” came the hesitant reply from Kaeso.

Raeus nodded stiffly to Iovinianus. “I shall bring the Praetorian Guard up this evening then...commander.” he informed, the last word being forced.

“Excellent. I was hoping the vaunted praetorians would be used for more than simply supply detail.” the proconsular legate replied, ignoring the insinuations in the prefect’s tone.

Raeus nodded. “Indeed.” came the simple reply. He nodded once more and then left the tent, leaving Iovinianus and Kaeso.

With Raeus gone, Kaeso walked over to his commander and stood before him. “Permission to speak...”

“Granted tribune...” Iovinianus answered, taking a drink of beer as he waited for what his aide had to say.

“Sir, I must argue against placing the prefect in second. I do not doubt nor question his ability as a commander but he will only cause confusion among the ranks because he will consistently argue and overrule your orders if you are not there personally to override him.” Kaeso stated with concern.

“I know…” Iovinianus replied, his words trailing off.

Looking very confused Kaeso asked, “Then sir, why did you place him in second?”

“Can't you see it Kaeso?"” he asked, looking up at his tribune with a raised eyebrow. “That man one day will be emperor. Maybe not today or tomorrow, or not for years and years…” he paused looking at the entrance of his tent “but mark my words he will be emperor.” He stood up and killed the last of his beer before calling for a servant to bring him more. “So I wanted my men to respect him and understand his authority now rather than have to deal with it later. They may not like him at first, but Raeus has a way with people.”


:::::: A Short Time Later ::::::


Iovinianus looked up to hear his guard speak to and then salute a man outside his tent. Dropping what he was doing he waited to see who entered, smiling a little when he saw Legate Daratius Antonius Terpus enter. Iovinianus waited for him to salute him before he cupped a fist in one hand and lay his chin to rest on his hands, leaning forward looking at Antonius with a grin.

“Welcome general...” he began “It is good to see you back with the army in one piece.”

“Sir, indeed. I wish to report to you that out of the Imperial forces under my command only seven hundred were lost with an additional three hundred or so too wounded to return to duty.” Antonius reported, straight to business.


“I see the reports, but more importantly I see what the tribunes said of your conduct.” he paused with a smile “I am pleased general. You performed as I would have hoped.”

“In the name of Rome, sir I am pleased to have served this army.” Antonius stated, referring to Iovinianus’ army rather than Imperator Dio’s in the south.

Iovinianus cracked a grin. “That is excellent to hear. I brought you in here though for a few questions I had hoped you would answer me.”

Antonius titled his head slightly as he listened to his commander.

“Do you recall how many Rugians were across the Vacalus River? I'm not expecting an exact count but something of an amphitheater figure...”

“The opposite side of the river was lined with settlements as far as the eye could see, and off into the distance there was a fortified town.” he stopped to think some more, trying to remember all he saw. “I would guess the Rugians could muster up another 8,000 warriors if the need arose.” Antonius answered as best he could.

Iovinianus mused over the information for a moment before speaking. "”Thank you general. This will be most helpful.” His comment obviously implying he was planning on revisiting in the near future. He continued then, “I am sorry though that you had to miss the lovely welcome party the Suevi threw for us.”

“I am sure sir I haven't missed much. I enjoyed teaching those barbaric Rugians a lesson of Roman warfare. It is a shame I couldn't finish the job.” Antonius replied.

“Well perhaps we'll swing by on our way home once this war is over, hmmm?” Iovinianus said with a chuckle. “Rumor has it, you took your own little prize from amongst the spoils you seized.” Iovinianus said, mainly because he was implying no 'spoils' would be handed out until after the campaign. His tone was very lighthearted though.

“I couldn't resist the beauty sir, you know what that’s like.” Antonius said laughing a bit.

“My only words to you on the matter are simply this,” he began in a cautionary tone, “She's a savage, so she'll need to be broken in. I doubt though I needed to tell you that, did I?” Iovinianus said, his tone very suggestive.

“Not at all sir.” Antonius replied before asking, “Have we word from the southern armies yet?”

Iovinianus frowned a bit, "”Not yet, though we are getting closer and closer each day. I assume we will.” He lowered his head and then looked for something before raising his eyebrows remembering something, “Oh I should inform you. I have just placed Raeus as my second. His command is final, unless I directly override him of course.”

“I understand commander.” Antonius nodded with approval as he glanced over looking at Kelda. “And of what spoil of war would this be called my lord?” Antonius asked jokingly, careful his tone was neither sarcastic nor insulting.

Iovinianus grinned. “The tribunes thought they would give me a gift. I knew if I refused they might feel insulted so I really couldn't say no.”

“Perhaps someday my men will grant me with such a gift, until then I must hand choose them myself.” Antonius responded staring at the girl. “What is she doing?” Antonius asked out of curiosity.

Iovinianus glanced over at the girl who now seemed to shun the attention, not looking at either Roman directly. “Since she was given to me, I wanted to know what she could do. Apparently she's quite skilled at creating garments and animals skins so I'm having her make a few for friends back home.” he paused, still looking in her direction. “Oh and I learned just a few hours ago she's a bard so I had her entertaining me with Germanic folklore and myths.” Still looking at the girl he finished his comments to Antonius, “That's all I've had her do for now.”

“Fascinating.” Antonius responded half serious half out of politeness. “If you don’t mind sir, it has been a long few days and I’m curious as to what hidden talents my slave may hold as well.”

Iovinianus turned back to his legate. “Of course. Please, don't let me keep you from your prize. For all I know she may also have a lovely singing voice and it would be a crime to keep you from that enjoyment.” Iovinianus finished, a very broad grin as his comment was loaded with much insinuation.

Antonius straightened to attention and saluted his captain before taking his leave.


:::::: Later That Night ::::::


Legate Laenas Maxentius Volusius strolled into his old friends’ command tent, coming to see him, yet was stopped suddenly when his ears picked up the sound of a singing voice. Walking over slowly, he saw Iovinianus relaxing with Kaeso and Legate Flavius Iudicius as Kelda sang a poem to them. Maxentius stood at a distance, no one noticing him save Kelda who simply glanced over before looking back at her audience and continuing to sing. Once she had finished she bowed her head slightly; applause suddenly came from the Romans who had been her audience and she smiled, pleased that she had performed well. As Iovinianus stood, his clapping fading, he turned and saw Maxentius and was taken by surprise but gave a broad grin as he was happy to his friend.

“Maxentius?” Iovinianus opened his arms as he asked the question, “Where have you been? I sent for you.”

Maxentius nodded slightly, “I know but I was caught up dealing with something from this afternoon.”

“Tisk, tisk, tisk…” Iovinianus answered. “You missed the performance.”

“I’m sorry.” Maxentius replied.

“You should be. It was pretty damn good if you ask me.” Flavius interjected as he stood up and walked past Maxentius, taking a bite from an apple. “She’s a damn good find. I think the tribunes were too kind to you.” he stated, directing the comment to the proconsular legate. “Another honor for our beloved alpha wolf.” he added with a smile as he took another bite from the apple, commenting on the name the legions had bestowed on their commander.

“So I’ve heard.” Maxentius commented in a flat tone.

“Yes, I’m making it my personal standard and insignia for my armor and the like.” Iovinianus said with a grin, his tone suggesting he had been drinking perhaps too much.

“How cute.” Flavius retorted with a jest, toward his patron Iovinianus, before taking another loud bite from the apple. “Next thing you know he’ll be making us have wolves as pets and force us to howl to the moon each night in godly reverence.” Flavius said toward Maxentius with all humor; his mouth full as he spoke.

Iovinianus simply eyed Flavius who was quite amused by his own antics as he was just grinning broadly toward his commander, the only motion coming from his chewing. As Flavius turned away Iovinianus suddenly threw up his right hand and smacked Flavius upside the back of his head; not very hard but with enough force to make the legate spit the food from his mouth onto the floor and drop his apple. Looking back in shock and confusion he saw Kaeso snickering off to the side and Iovinianus giving him a wry grin with a raised eyebrow.

“What was that for?” Flavius asked, more rhetorically than anything.

“For being yourself.” Iovinianus retorted in good humor.

Maxentius simply smiled and shook his head. While he did not approve when his friend drank on campaign, it did tend to bring out his younger self who was more about wit and comedy and horsing around; and it was good to see that part of him still existed even if it only came out with the help of Bacchus. Until the last year or so together, he had not been with his old teenage friend for years having gone East with Emperor Helvius Tiberius Vitellius instead; sadly, he felt like he knew Raeus better than he did his best friend before they joined up.

“Do you mind if I speak with you?” Maxentius asked of his old friend.

Iovinianus looked at bit surprised that he had to ask such a thing, so taking a goblet filled with beer away from Flavius as he was about to drink from it himself and bringing it to his own lips he replied, “Of course brother. You don’t need to ask me such things. Just speak.”

As Iovinianus put his arm over the shoulder of his friend and walked away Flavius just stood in with arms wide open toward his commander as to why he was the one to be picked on suddenly. He kept this pose until Kaeso came over and placed another goblet of drink into his chest making Flavius happy.

“What’s on your mind brother?” Iovinianus asked Maxentius, the two now off to the side away from the others.

“Well I just wanted to check up on you that’s all. You’ve been worrying me of late.” Maxentius told him with concern.

Iovinianus shifted in his stance and looked perplexed, “What ever are you talking about?”

Maxentius ran a hand over his mouth and looked over and could see Kaeso and Flavius taking their leave; servants now tending to the things that needed cleaning and Kelda in the corner humming to herself as she fixed something in her hair. Looking back at his friend, he answered.

“What’s been eating at you? Come now you know what I mean. We’ve never been ones to hold things from each other. What is it that’s made you so heartless on this campaign, so…” he paused “…bloodthirsty?”

Iovinianus turned his head away and simply looked off to the side at nothing in particular. It was apparent he did not want to have the conversation. Maxentius was not sure if this was because he really did not want to talk about it or if their time apart had been so much and Iovinianus had changed so much in those years that he had to slowly remember who his trusted friends were. In either case, it saddened Maxentius things had come to this; he wondered if there was anyone he confided in these days.

“You know, Mariniara was crying to me the day before we left. Right after that tenuous meeting with Raeus and the new legates, she came to me in tears because you wouldn’t tell her what was wrong.” he just stood before his friend looking him squarely in the eyes.

Iovinianus now leaned against a wooden support of his large tent taking a very heavy gulp of beer from his goblet, killing its content before tossing it to a servant walking by and giving a slight indication with his head he wanted more. Looking up meet his friends’ eyes he blinked once and finally answered. “I’m not ready to speak of that right now.”

Maxentius visibly looked disappointed but chose not to press the matter. “Fine, if you’d rather have it fester than by all means.”

“I would actually.” Iovinianus said taking a new goblet of beer from a servant and walking toward his desk, “It helps me stay warm at night.” Taking a seat behind it he looked toward Maxentius and changed the subject. “So how’s Aenoria?”

Maxentius sighed that Iovinianus changed the topic but was not in the mood for a fight so he did not protest. “She’s well, visiting some family in Gaul but otherwise well.” he answered, speaking of his wife.

“And the children?” Iovinianus asked taking a gulp of beer.

“Loud, obnoxious and troublesome.” Maxentius smiled, thinking of his four boys and small young girl. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.” He came over and sat down in the extra chair in front of the desk and began to speak of his children.

Off to the side, Kelda eavesdropped on the conversation as best she could. Knowing only a few broken words it was hard; but she was bored as she combed her hair and knew words like ‘son’, ‘daughter’, ‘have’, ‘want’, etc. All basic words and so the topic interested her if only because she could make most of it out.

“Lucius is growing up to be a fine son, real strong and stubborn like his old man.” Maxentius said with an approving smile, “I think he wants to follow in my footsteps though part of me wants to steer him and the other boys away from such a career.” his words carried much emotion as he suddenly and perhaps unconsciously rubbed his thigh where he had received a terrible wound near Palmyra. It hurt from time to time, as did his head from his injuries. The occasional splitting headache was a constant reminder why he should steer his sons away from serving in the legions.

Iovinianus just leaned back and listened. “That’s understandable.”

“Yes well I don’t know how much I’ll be able to stop him with his nature but until he comes of age I’ll enjoy every moment I have with him and the others.” Maxentius declared.

Iovinianus gave a half smile; thoughts of what it would be like to play and raise his own son if he had one running through his head. He sighed.

Maxentius ceased his comments and waited for Iovinianus to make eye contact before apologizing, “Sorry. I didn’t mean to…”

“No, no.” Iovinianus said raising his hand. “It’s fine. I’m used to it.” he concluded before adding. “Especially since my brother in Syria has three boys of his own.”

“You still want one don’t you?” Maxentius asked.

“As much as I tell myself I’m happy now, I know deep down I’m not completely.” he paused to take a drink, “For as long as I can remember I’ve wanted a son to carry on my name.” he paused and then quickly added, “Don’t get me wrong. I cherish my daughters so much and I wouldn’t trade them in for anything I…” he trailed off a bit, “…I love them dearly but it isn’t the same as having a son.”

Things were silent for a few minutes as each Roman looked at various objects in the tent. A servant walked to and fro off to the side, doing small tasks and the like and still Kelda listened. Her back was turned to them and she acted as though she could not understand or did not care, but she used all of her concentration to pick out words she knew so she could decipher what the discussion was about.

“Have you told Mariniara that?” Maxentius asked in a quiet tone.

“Never.” came the rapid response. “You have any idea what telling her that would do to her? She’d be devastated. Come on Maxentius. You know as well as I do how she was raised.” he paused before continuing, “Gothic and Germanic culture are similar in this aspect, it is the wife’s duty to provide her husband with a son. Should she fail in this then the husband is to find someone who can father him one whether this means taking a new wife or simply a concubine and as Gothic royalty this was drilled into her to no end.” he finished, stating what did not need to be said but speaking it anyway out of frustration.

Iovinianus looked at nothing in particular in front of him and added, “She’s asked me many times and I’ve always told her it doesn’t matter. While that is partially true I knew I could never tell her the truth. She acts like it doesn’t matter to her anymore but I can see it in her eyes when she’s with Aenoria and your boys or some nephews from the Tullians.” he now looked down and exhaled a deep breath. “I could never do that to her. Not now. Especially not now,” he said with raised eyebrows, his gaze still at the ground, “at her age it’s dangerous to have children and I’d rather have no children than to fathom losing her.”

Silence permeated in the tent now as the two Romans simply sat and mused. The silence was finally broken after several minutes by Iovinianus who stood up and looked toward his friend. “It’s getting late. I think I should turn in.”

Maxentius stood and clasped his friend’s hand. He could tell in the tone of his voice, that his friend did not have the intention of sleeping. He feared the topics he brought up would make him drink even more before finally resting; then again maybe he was just worrying too much. He nodded his hand and shook his arm as he held Iovinianus’ tightly. “I’ll see you in the morning.”

“In the morrow my friend.” that having been said, he turned and left his commander to his own thoughts which were now swimming with things he cared not to dwell on.

Sitting back down and running a hand over his face he looked to the one servant who was still working in his tent and called to him. “Marcus, bring me some more would you.”

The slave came over and took the goblet and bowed slightly, “Yes dominus.” before turning to retrieve more drink.

Exhaling a deep breath and wishing to sidetrack the thoughts in his head he looked about his command tent and saw Kelda still awake and still fixing her hair, or so it appeared.

“What are you still doing up?” he asked her in her Eastern Germanic tongue.

Stopping suddenly as she was caught off guard, she turned around and looked at him; shyly responding, “I’m not sure where I am to sleep my lord. I have been given no quarters.”

Iovinianus closed his eyes momentarily in sudden realization she was right. “Forgive me Kelda. You have your own bed in one of the small adjacent tents outside. You have your own guard as well.” he informed her.

“Thank you my lord, being alone can sometimes scare me.” she replied.

He gave a little smile. “Don’t flatter yourself. He’s mainly there to make sure you don’t get any ideas and try and run off. No one would dare touch you.”

She lowered her head a little as he missed her point. She was not going to run away. What was the point? Where could she go and who would take care of her? She was genuinely pleased to not have to worry about her own security for a change.

“Do you wish to retire for the night?” he asked her.

“Not really my lord. I’m not tired, but if you wish me to leave your presence I will not linger.” she said humbly.

“No it’s fine.” he answered, taking the goblet of beer his servant had just brought him; thanking him before looking back at Kelda. “If it isn’t too much, I’d like it if you sang another poem.”

She bit her lower lip ever so slightly and nodded her head a little, “If it pleases my lord I shall.”

The night then continued on into very early morning as Kelda sang her poem. Iovinianus had moved closer to her so she did not have to sing as loud and so he could better see her expressions and body motions as she told her tale since her physical movements were integral to her tellings. He drank the whole time, becoming quite inebriated but still very coherent and interested in the poem. Towards the end of the poem he began to gently touch her cheek and play with her hair; his eyes clearly showing he was infatuated with her, chiefly due to her singing. These actions at first made her feel uncomfortable but she did not protest and soon it did not bother her. He was in no way groping her, just an occasional gentle caress here or there; it actually made her smile to herself that she pleased her master so, which made her feel more secure about her well-being and future. Once she had finished she just smiled at Iovinianus who nodded his approval and thanks. He stood up and stumbled a bit toward a small table, placing down his now empty goblet and removing a belt which held a dagger attached to it. Kelda knowing he was going to go to bed stood and gathered what few things she had procured while in his company and was walking out to leave when suddenly his hand grabbed her arm and held her in place.

“Where are you going?” he asked in pure wonderment, his voice very slurred and manner betraying how much of a hold Bacchus had on him.

“To…to my tent my lord.” she quietly stammered, her back to him.

“Oh yes… yes… that’s right.” Iovinianus said in a drunken realization. He then came to stand behind her and placed his hands on her shoulders and placed his face gently to the back of her head, smelling the sweet scent of her dark-red hair. She just stood there, frozen. She felt him move her hair from her shoulder and neck and she inhaled deeply as she felt him give a very gentle kiss on her neck. Then another a little higher, and another until he came to her ear; she closed her eyes and took in the sensation, tilting her head to side to allow him an easier angle. Suddenly she sharply inhaled, her head snapped straight and her eyes shot open as she felt the piercing bite on her earlobe shot through her nerves. Feeling his breath against her ear she listened as he whispered softly to her in Latin.

She closed her eyes once more, exhaling her breath loudly and again bit her lower lip as his words registered in her mind.


:::::: A Few Days Later ::::::


Iovinianus sat, waiting for all of his lieutenants to assemble before beginning the meeting. Things were going much smoother than he even had anticipated. However, the need to hunt down and exterminate the pockets of Irminones in their small hillforts delayed the army from moving south faster. Many were now worried about what was happening with the southern forces which were supposed to meet the larger enemy threat. No word had yet reached them that was of any use, all communications coming from Belgica and from there through Gaul and then from the Upper Danube where news would be had to the operations of the emperor and his captains. To ease concerns, Iovinianus called a war council to discuss the next course of action, but also to help them unwind as he had planned that the war council end on a happy and relaxing note.

Seeing the last of the invited the proconsular legate stood up and began, “Gentlemen. I'm glad you were all able to make it so promptly. We have much to discuss especially since the Irminones have taken to the hills in droves.”

He smiled warmly to them adding, “Your thoughts?” before he sat back down in his chair and propped his feet; a cup of beer in his hand as he drank.

The room was oddly quite, as each lieutenant seemed to eye each other from around the room silently asking who should speak first. Iovinianus took another drink from his goblet, gazing around the room.

The first to break the silence was Flavius. Stepping forward and looking to the others and not his commander he spoke, “Well sir, honestly, I don't like the fact that these Germans have all fled. They may be planning to hit our rear once we turn south denying us resupply and route home.” he now turned to Iovinianus adding, “I think we should root them out before meeting Verus and make damn sure they don’t try anything stupid.”

Legate Sarus Damasus spoke next, “I'm inclined to agree. We should watch our supply lines,” he paused, “but we must be wary of the Amali. Their absence worries me.”

Sarus of anyone in the room knew well the Amali threat, himself being one as well.

Raeus shifting in his stance spoke slowly now, “I also don't like the idea of leaving a hostile force potentially behind us.” Raeus gazed in Iovinianus’ direction who simply returned his stare with slightly raised eyebrows. Raeus wondered what he was thinking but he assumed he expected his new second to argue for marching quickly south. He was not going to give him the benefit of fighting a battle he knew he could not win at this moment. With each passing day, Raeus felt like Iovinianus was testing and toying with him; and he hated it.

“Then let us weed this people out and remove them as a variable threat.” Flavius said with vim, gazing around the room at all the legates then back toward his captain.

Iovinianus remained silent and simply looked now to the others for impute.

“We are in quite the predicament...” Maxentius began, slowly pacing to and fro in the large tent. “I agree with your concerns of course,” he directed toward Flavius, “but who knows what happens in the south as we lose more and more time to link up.”

Legate Lepidus Tetricus Vitellius now added his own thoughts, “You make it sound so dreadful Maxentius. Surely you don’t think that eleven legions and assorted cohortes cannot handle the Balthi host?”

“I was not implying anything of the sort, merely commenting that we have a mission to see through and that entails us to move south and link up with the vanguard of the southern force.” Maxentius stated; his comments and tone evidence of his days as a proconsular legate under the late Emperor Vitellius in the East.

“I agree we should deal with these Germans.” Sarus interjected. “But again I stress, the Amali. I fear if we concentrate too much on the Irminones the Amali will strike us.”

As some of the legates argued and debated Antonius who had been quiet up until this point asked aloud, “Have we any news from the southern forces? Dispatches, sightings, locations, anything?”

Iovinianus gave a frown and then took a swig of his drink before replying, “Only old dispatches from the emperor which are pointless and trivial in the scheme of the campaign at this point.”

Iovinianus held up a couple of the letters to make his point, they were dated almost at the time when they crossed the Rhine which was now going on two weeks, whose information was now useless of course.

“Sarus brings up a fair concern.” Maxentius pointed out. “Still, what do we know of Irminone numbers?”

Iovinianus glanced to the side in the direction of Kelda, who was very clearly out of earshot and occupying herself with something with other servants, before turning back to his generals. “That they are at least a decent size. From those we have captured we estimate numbers no more than twelve thousand.”

Flavius interjected on his commander’s behalf, adding, “We've killed a few thousand already. Scattered yes, but altogether we believe they account that number.”

Raeus crossed his arms and leaned back against a wooden support for the large tent, his gaze on Iovinianus as he spoke. “We could deploy a screening force.” he paused “Enough to hold the Irminones at bay, allowing us to maintain a larger field army to press on with.”

Iovinianus cracked his neck and kept the prefect’s stare. “We could... but…” his comments trailed off for a moment as his eyes wandered the area, “…if we press on leaving these Germans behind, a force that big would shatter our supply lines.” he looked back at the prefect and suddenly stood up. “And I want our full force when we are welcomed by the Amali into these lovely lands.”

“What do you suggest then?” asked Raeus.

“Do both of course.” Iovinianus said in a slightly arrogant tone.

“How do you propose we do that sir?” asked Tetricus.

“Before we turn south, we split into two large formations and move against these two targets here.” he stated, now pointing to his map. “As you can see they are the largest concentration of Irminones we have found are very close to each other. Neither formation will be more than an hour away from the other.”

“And this includes the Amali how?” Antonius asked.

Iovinianus turned on his heels and smiled to the legate, the alcohol clearly starting its affect on him.

“Antonius, you strike me as a man who needs to go on a trip.” he paused with a half smile, “Do you not agree?”

Antonius looked confused as did several others.

“I want you to lead a reconnaissance in force south, following the main highway as best you can. The moment you run into anything at all, whether it be the Amali, a large force of Irminones, the vanguard of the southern force or a threatening looking squirrel…” he added with a wry grin, “…you are to turn around immediately and report here. Whatever the threat, we shall know about it and be able to turn round, link up and engage it.”

Antonius simply nodded, “By your command sir.” He smiled to himself, glad he was going to be the spear point south and at the head of many horse.

Maxentius huffed a little bit, amused but pleased, “An excellent notion. We have yet to hear what progress the army to the south has made. At this point, I would not be surprised if we had ample time to destroy the Irminones before pressing forth and dealing with the Amali.”
Iovinianus strode over to his chair and plopped down. Gazing at all around him he took a drink of beer.

“...I want you to return immediately.” he said directing it to Antonius. “You have a recon in force to ensure you aren’t held up with small ambuscades. Don’t be a hero Antonius. I need you alive.” Iovinianus said with a smile.

“Of course sir.” Antonius replied.

“Raeus you seem rather quiet.” Iovinianus stated. “Is that an indication you agree with this?”

Raeus cleared his throat and gave a very simple answer. “Agreed.”

Iovinianus smiled brightly, goblet in hand, “Well then it's settled. Antonius will leave in the morning to head south. In the meantime, Sejanus,” he said looking to the quiet legate. “…you and Tetricus will move to a location on the map and deal with these barbarians.” The proconsular legate now stood and proclaimed, “I will take the rest of the army along with Raeus and deal with another area said to be the most heavily populated of the Irminones.”

He threw his arms out, spilling a couple drops of his drink as he held it asking, “Any questions?”

Raeus, disgusted with Iovinianus’ behavior answered in a low voice, “I believe that's clear enough, commander.”

Iovinianus grinned. “Then gentlemen, let us relax for rest of the evening. Hmm?” having said that he motioned to servants who brought in drinks and food.

Flavius and Sarus both looked pleased, as did Tetricus who cracked a grin. Maxentius frowned slightly but assented to enjoy himself just a little. 'Raeus said little, but kept himself slightly apart from the rest of the revelry. When Iovinianus' eyes fell upon him, he would hold his gaze for a moment, before looking away.

Seeing this expression, Iovinianus got up and walked over to him, speaking quietly with a smile, “What's wrong Raeus? You look concerned.”

Raeus did not respond, he simply gave a wave of his hand for Iovinianus to continue with his little ‘party’. He knew well he was not going to stay long. He could tell Maxentius was not going to either. It was not that Raeus did not like to enjoy himself; he was simply not a fan at watching a man, especially his commander and the leader of the campaign, not have the control to monitor his habits. More and more Iovinianus was seen honoring Bacchus more than most men should while on campaign. It had yet to affect his command or his leadership from what Raeus could tell; and that’s what worried him most, the yet part.


:::::: Late the Next Morning ::::::


Raeus pushed open the entrance to Iovinianus' command tent, casting a fierce glance at the servant who tried to stop him, silencing the man instantly. “Iovinianus?” he called as he advanced into the tent alone.

Iovinianus somewhat stirred from the sound of his name, but did little to actually move or get up from bed. He was still firmly asleep.

Catching the motion out of the corner of his eye, Raeus turned towards the bed but kept a respectable difference back. He coughed once, but when that didn't rouse him, he spoke up. “Proconsular Legate Vallentinus.” he paused, placing his hands behind his back, “Wake up.”

Iovinianus suddenly shot up from the bed, his eyes looking quite groggy. “Raeus?” he asked still somewhat not fully awake. He rubbed his eyes and asked “By the gods why are you up so damned early?” then he stopped and looked up with squinting eyes from the light, “And why are you in my tent?” he asked in an utterly confused voice.

Raeus looked sternly down at his commander. “It is late-morning, proconsular legate, Apollo has nearly come to ride over us. A runner from Legate Terpus has just returned, we have a sighting on a large Amali force.”

Now more or less awake turned and sat up in the bed, his feet touching the ground. “Late-morning?” he asked in general, looking around and realizing it true through squinting eyes from the light. “Why was I not awoken?” he shook his head and dispelled that as frivolous at the moment. “Alright, how... how far off are they?”

It was apparent the proconsular legate had a bit too much to drink the night before, which explained his current state.

Raeus shifted his weight from one foot to the other and folded his arms in front of him. “A little over an hours march away. The army is assembling now.”

Iovinianus looked visibly shocked the Amali were so close and the previous patrols had not seen them. He stood now from the bed, holding and then wrapping a sheet around his lower body. “Have you already recalled Tetricus and Sejanus from their previous task?”

Raeus was about to answer when he held his tongue. As his commander walked over to him, the sheet being pulled from the bed, it was suddenly clear Iovinianus had not been alone and the naked back of the Irminonian girl was visible for all to see, herself just waking up; and now slowly covering up.

Raeus glanced at the girl for a moment before returning his gaze to Iovinianus; his eyes loaded with scorn and the vaguest hint of a sneer on his lips. “I have sent a brief dispatch ordering their recall.” Looking at the proconsular legate he stated, “Get dressed.” in a tone that was half ordering.

“Alright good.” he said, calling for his servants who began to give him clothes. He scolded a few of them for not waking him once it was obvious he had not awoken on his own. He then turned to Raeus, missing the glance and insinuation toward the girl, and stated, “We have the entire army. We must meet them on the field and engage them. I want a crushing victory.” he paused, putting on a tunic, “Once we have firmly placed them under our boots we can link up with the emperor's army to the south.”

He walked over with a smile and placed a hand on Raeus’ shoulder; a broad grin forming on his face.

“Today is the day Raeus.” he paused. “Today is the day we have been hoping for.”

Kelda in the background now sat up and held a sheet to her chest, slowly dressing herself away from the general commotion of the servants and the two Roman commanders, though she kept her head half turned to them, trying as she usually did, to eavesdrop; more for the simple curiosity, partly for vital information. At least, vital if she could understand it.

Raeus’ scornful expression had not left his face and he nodded once to answer the comments directed toward him. “Indeed, proconsular legate.”

Having some clothes on, Iovinianus finally noticed the look on the prefect's face. “Raeus, if you agree with me then why the dreadful look?”

Raeus looked hard at him and responded in a measured voice. “Your behavior is unbefitting of a commander in the field, Iovinianus.”

He nodded understanding his point, “I apologize. I admit I had a bit too much to drink last night, but it’s not the end of the world Raeus.”

Raeus looked away and said nothing.

Iovinianus, a bit upset he had a headache, was not in the mood for a fight. In a somewhat angry tone he asked, “Speak your mind. What is it?”

Raeus took his commanders’ eye answering calmly, “There is nothing else, sir. We have an army awaiting your leadership.”

Iovinianus eyed him for a moment, holding out his arms so his servants could strap on his armor. “Very well.” he paused and took a deep breath. “Take your place then amongst the army Raeus. Today, we shall be owed a great debt by Rome.”

Raeus nodded and saluted, “Aye sir.” He then turned and left the tent.




Written by: Neos Dionysos, Calidus Raeus Vitellius and Daratius Antonius Terpus