Naevia & Crixus: An Eternity for us
Naevia was brought to the latifundium of Batiatus. This was several miles away from Capua. There she had to fulfil much harder tasks, than she was used to, as Dominas first slave. Naevia was forced to work in the fields, feed the animals, carry water, or whatever else was needed. The days of privilege were over, but rumour spread, that Naevia had once been Crixus' lover, so the women where jealous and made her life bitter. Though being linked to Crixus had also a considerable advantage: men would let Naevia in peace. They feared the hatred and anger of Capuas former champion.
This rough life carried on for weeks, when suddenly the whole atmosphere in the latifundium changed from bustling activity to something quit different. Everyone was whispering and something like hope was in the air. Naevia learned that Spartacus and all the Gladiators – Crixus amongst them – had revolted and slaughtered Batiatus, his wife and all their honourable guests who had the misfortune to happen to be there the very day. With one exception, none could explain: Ilithyia.
There was rumour that Spartacus, Crixus and Onomaus shared more and more former slaves around them, freeing villas and latifundia alike. They were leaving a track of blood and death in the lines of the noble Roman families.
"They get what they deserve!" said an old slave, spitting out disdainfully.
"Hold your tongue" hissed apparently his wife "you will get us all crucified!"
A younger man replied fiercely "Better crucified then leading this life until old and grey. Spartacus marches in our direction! He will free us!"
The older man whispered "You don't know what you're talking about. If Spartacus really comes here, in the best case, half of us will see the day after tomorrow! Not to think, what happens if anything is discovered by the proxy!"
Naevia heard all this with growing fear and also happiness. "Crixus lives! Lives and is free! And comes here! To free me? Or will he die in the attempt? How can Spartacus be so bold? So foolish?"
The days passed. The strange atmosphere remained. One night the chaos broke from the dark heavens. Everyone woke by the noise of combat, which quickly ended. Yells broke through the night "Freedom brothers! Join Spartacus!"
Everyone ran to the court. There were the former Gladiators – drenched in blood – Roman blood. They opened locks, destroyed chains and took the necklaces with Batiatus' name from their brothers and sisters.
Naevia had eyes but for one. She searched the court for Crixus and there he stood: a man, more God than man, but whose heart beat only for her. Their eyes met instantly and Naevia flew into his arms.
It was a moment – it could have been an eternity. Crixus arms were tight and strong around her frail body, nearly crushing it. Holding to her, to proof himself that it was not a dream.