Chapter 1 Night Raid

Legio I Roma

Legio II Enedwaith

Legio III Augusta

Legio IV Abila

Legio V Angren

Legio VI Neopolis

Legio VII Octavia

Legio VIII Gwathlo

Legio IX Eriador

Neo Roma, Grain Stores…

"This is boring," said Marcus standing around. All that he could see were piles and piles of grain carefully stored in baskets.

"Marcus," said the Centurion coming up to him. Marcus stood at attention.

"Sir," said Marcus.

"I bring word from your father, the orcs have been routed and he will be home soon to get a hero's welcome," said Centurion Valis. "How is your wound?" he asked.

"It heals well, though I wished I did not get injured in that skirmish," said Marcus.

"You'll get your chance in time," said Valis. "For now, I am going to let you go early to see your father," he said. "Your dismissed."

"Thank you, sir," said Marcus as he walked away.

Streets of Neo Roma…

The main streets of Neo Roma were buzzing with a huge crowd on either side. Great cheers filled the air. Petals of flowers were raining down the streets. Soldiers and militia forming along the street with the crowd behind them. A man on a chariot was riding through the street with a contingent of cavalry and few soldiers as they paraded the streets.

"HURRAH FOR GENERAL FELIX!"

"ROMA'S GREAT HERO!"

"WELCOME HOME!"

The crowd of people celebrating his triumph. Felix with his trusted friend Cassius and driver going down the street preparing to stop at the Senate Forum. "I'll tell you Cassius. I am no much for parades," admitted Felix.

"Then why do them?" asked Cassius.

"Make's the people happy and it'd be rude to turn it down," said Felix making his friend chuckle. The chariot continued to roll down the streets the crowd still wildly cheering and applauding. Then they finally arrived at a magnificent building of stone, marble, gold, and silver filled with gardens and fountains. At the steps stood several men in white with different color sashes of purple, green, red, and blue. (The sashes represent different political parties.) Also, on the steps were several heavily armed guards in dark legionary armor with red crests on their helmet. Their shield was of black and gold and lasts their purple cowls. The Praetorian guard was present along with the Emperor who was white haired and was old wearing his golden Laurel Wreaths.

The chariot soon stopped as the two men stepped down from the chariot and began climbing the steps with pedals still falling like rain. When they reached the top, they bowed their heads in respect for their Emperor and Senate. "Welcome home General," said Emperor Thrax.

"Your grace," said Felix.

"Indeed general, we shall celebrate your victory tonight," said Senator Gracus.

"No need, just a simple cup of wine will do," said Felix.

"They'll celebrate your victory anyways General," said Aries.

"Anyways, I'd like to present my report to the Senate," said Felix.

"Of course," said Thrax as all the men began to go into the Senate building.

"Good day," said a voice as the men turned around to see a graybeard man with a pointy hat and staff.

"Gandalf," said Felix happy to see the wizard.

"General Felix, congratulation on your latest victory. Hail Emperor Thrax, lord and Emperor of Roma," said Gandalf bowing his head in respect.

"What brings you to Neo Roma?" asked Thrax.

"If I may I wish to speak to you and your Senate," requested Gandalf.

"Of course, my friend," said Thrax as all the men went into the Senate building.

Senate Building, Chamber…

In a chamber of marble with seats of stone with soft cushions surrounding in a circular theater. The Emperor also had a big seat though mostly he was proceeding over the proceedings. In the center was a marble circle floor where General Felix faced the whole Senate to give his report. "Members of the senate I am happy to report that the invasion has been repelled," began Felix as he got some applause, then continued. "However, I am concerned that the orcs have become more bolder and have not launched an invasion of this scale for many years. Not only that raids have become more frequent from both the wild men and orcs. My own son has become a soldier himself and not long of five months of fighting on the border he was wounded. I General Felix besiege the Senate to reactivate the VII and IV out of the reserves and raise a X legion."

The senators were looking at one another mumbling to themselves. Then a senator from the left side began to walk to the floor. "The floor recognizes Senator Quintus," said Emperor Thrax.

"General while we all are applauding your victory," Quintus began. "These are times of peace, in fact we will be moving soon to putting the V legion in reserve as well."

"Senator, we need more men to defend our borders," said Felix.

"I agree with General Felix," said Senator Gracus standing up from his seat.

"If I may speak," said Gandalf standing up from a guest seat as he walked onto the marble floor.

"The floor recognizes Gandalf the Grey," said Thrax.

"The Shadow is coming, evil is stirring in Mordor. Roma must rally it's forces to prepare for war," said Gandalf warningly urging the Senate.

"Yes, but, isn't Mordor not on the other side of Middle-Earth," said Senator Falco.

"Do not underestimate the reach of Mordor Senator," said Gandalf.

"Yes," said Falco. "We the Senate do not recognize a clear and present danger to Roma and for now we shall enjoy peace," said Falco. Gandalf was not pleased with this decision.

"I urge the Senate to reconsider," said Felix. "We currently stand with only six active legions, two which you put in reserve and now another in reserve. Then we still do not know of the fate of Legio VIII. Their standard has yet to be recovered since that disastrous expedition."

"According to our investigation, the Legatus of Legio VIII Gwathlo left his post and went to find treasure in Moria." Said Senator Falco.

Felix was not satisfied with that investigation, "I still find it strange, I knew the Legatus of that Legion, he would not act without orders," said Felix.

"I'm afraid that is what our investigation has found General Felix, now that will be all for the day," said Senator Quintus.

"We are adjourned," said Thrax dismissing the Senate.

(Outside the Chamber)

Gandalf went out the double doors from the chamber with Felix right behind him and then walking next to him. "These darn Senators would rather think about pleasure and money," fumed Gandalf. "Can't your Emperor do anything?"

"Afraid not, the Emperor control the military is true. However, he has more power during wartime," explained Felix. "I do have friends in the senate they are all not fat pigs."

"If I may ask, what kind of defenses does Roma have?" asked Gandalf.

"I'll tell you somethings. Come join me for lunch, my Villa is just outside of Neo Roma to the North," invited Felix.

"Just tea thank you," said Gandalf.

Felix's Villa, Later…

Gandalf was sitting at a table by a warm fire as Felix came back and poured some tea in a cup. "So, Gandalf, where are you headed to next?" asked Felix.

"To my old friend Bilbo birthday in The Shire," said Gandalf.

"Home of the Hobbits, interesting people," said Felix. "Now as for your question from earlier one of our main defenses is along our border we share along with Gondor in the White Mountain."

"The Mithril mine," said Gandalf.

"Yes, a Citadel we call the Iron Citadel, originally built to deter Gondor, it guards the entrance to the mine but also can with stand a siege for almost a year or more. The Citadel itself is built into the mountain by us and the dwarves that mine the mountain."

"How impenetrable?" asked Gandalf.

"The first gate itself is strong, the second one even stronger. There is a balcony above the gates that lead inside. The problem for the attacker is that you can only put at most four ladders. You can practically defend the Citadel with only 1,000 soldiers."

Gandalf was listening with interest, "Good, but I'm assuming there is more to this countries defense then that Citadel. The enemy just may well avoid it."

"We have many forts within our country, and Neo Roma itself has a huge wall surrounding her as well as two inner walls. Outside of it is a moat," said Felix. "However, all this is meaningless without the manpower, the Senate continues to ignore the military."

"How many troops could Roma field?" asked Gandalf.

"Counting my last estimation of our population I would say about twenty legions, plus the 40,000 auxiliary troops. That would be being the total to about 200,000," said Felix. "the big problem are these bleeding Senators." Then both men heard the door open and a young man come in.

"Father," said Marcus walking in.

"Marcus," said Felix getting up. "How are you my boy," moving to hug him.

"Gandalf?" said Marcus surprised to see him.

"And how have you been young lad," said Gandalf laughing. "You've gotten taller…And become a Legionnaire."

"Come join us son," said Felix returning to the table. "How was your day?"

"Kind of boring, guarding grain stores is a duty for the militia," said Marcus. "I also heard that they will be putting the V legion in reserve. I'll be stuck guarding grain."

"Well son, I do have a task for you in mind," said Felix pulling out an envelope. "I need you to travel to Neopolis and deliver this letter to the Governor Titus. Unless you prefer to guard grain stores."

"Actually, I'll do that for you father," said Marcus. "I'll shall leave after some food, it's about a day and half ride."

(Outside Villa)

Gandalf got onto his cart full of fireworks preparing to leave. Marcus as well mounted a horse with two Roman Gladius on his left and right side. "Farewell, Gandalf, father," said Marcus taking off.

"So long lad," said Gandalf waving. "Well Felix, it's best I get going. My friend I hope your efforts don't go in vain." Then he commanded the horse to get going to head for the Shire.

"Have fun at your party Gandalf," said Felix. "Time to tend to the bees."

Roma Countryside…

Marcus was galloping through the green countryside. Occasionally he would pass by a villa or farm of wheat, apples, or vineyards upon the stone roads. He kept going, he has never been to Neopolis before. Soon night came filed with stars. Eventually he came upon a small town with an Inn, stopping for the night to rest. Going into the Inn and renting a room he went into the Dinning hall where many folks of sorts were in eating and drinking. Taking a seat, he could here all kinds of chatter filling the evening air. Looking around he saw Romans, local townspeople, merchants, even a few dwarves.

After ordering some chicken and wine he turned in for the night.

(Next Day)

Marcus got up early and went upon his horse to make the rest of his journey. After riding all morning, he finally came upon the walls of the port city of Neopolis by the river Gwathlo that opened to the ocean. Upon a hill he could see the many ships sailing in and out of the harbor that astonished him. A few ships going up and down the river to deliver their goods. "Finally, here," said Marcus then galloping his horse towards the city.

Port City of Neopolis…

The gates were wide opened, traders from all over were leaving and entering the city with carts full of goods. Continuing to walk through the city upon his horse he went to search for the Governor's residence. The most eye opening were the many canals through the city. Small boats would ferry people in good. (Think of Venice)

He found a stone building with an iron gate and two guards. Dismounting from his horse in front of the gate. "I have a letter for the Governor," said Marcus.

The two guards nodded and opened the gates for him allowing Marcus to walk in. The residence was nice with a fountain in the middle of the courtyard as he walked towards the steps. He went to the doors and more guards opened the doors. Going down the hall he saw a man sitting at a desk with piles of scrolls on it. He was looking down on his desk signing and looking through papers. Marcus walked up the man and pulled out the envelop. "I bring a letter from General Felix," said Marcus.

The Governor finally looked up and took the envelop, "Thank you," said the Governor Titus then looking back down to the paper work. Marcus turned around to leave, deciding he had time. He began to walk around the streets of Neopolis after turning in his horse. He then went down some steps into the canal and asked a man to ferry him around. The material of the city ranged from stone and marble, with some wood. The city of beautiful. Then the ferryman came to a stop at our destination I stepped out of the boat and he held out his hand. I immediately reached for my purse and placed a silver coin in his hand.

He then continued to walk to see the main docks. The ocean was beautiful as he felt the sea breeze. He could see the ships coming in and out of the port, it was large, maybe hundreds of ships were docked. He also saw a tower and walls around the port and a big bell. He then noticed a customs officers going up to some elves and talking with them. He signaled two militiamen to go aboard their vessel. After a few minutes the two militiamen came off the ship giving a nod. With that the customs officers shook the elves hand and left them be as the elves as well as some local docks workers began to unload the ship full of wine, vegetables, and even some weapons. These goods as well as some other were going directly into the market. Marcus looked around and surprisingly saw a few dwarves bring in what looked like fresh jewels from the earth itself.

Unlike the Legionaries, the Roman Militia were only part time soldiers. There job mostly is to enforce the law and keep order. Armed with only simple hard leather armor, oval shaped red shield with green laurel symbol painted upon it. Their weapons ranged from bows, spears, and a Gladius. Legionaries were present in major cities making a local garrison, but usually were about fifty to hundred men. The majority still being the militia.

After watching some more of the daily operations, he decided to look around the city more. He went to the forum, marketplace, and then made a stop at the public bath. After the bath he went to the local Inn. This Inn was much better than the one in town, and much larger in size. He could see a variety of people, Elves, Dwarves, and even some men from Gondor. After checking in he then took a seat for some food. Looking around the room he then noticed a hooded figure seated by the fireplace smoking a pipe armed with a sword and bow. "Hmm," he thought. Then he noticed the man's head raise up as if looking at him. Marcus then turned around taking a sip of water. "Must be one of those Dunedain Rangers."

The hooded man looked at this Roman carefully, noticing not only his weapons but on his arm was the mark of the legion. A tattooed Eagle and under the eagle SPQR.

The Inn was full of chatting and drinking and it went into the night. It was late night and Marcus went to his room to turn in. Looking out he could see a canal and the streets. Strangely the moon was covered making it extra dark. Thinking nothing of it he turned in for the night.

(Walls by the Harbor)

Two militiamen were patrolling the walls heading towards the bell tower, torches out. The night was very dark, even a bit eerie. One of the militiamen stopped and so did his friend as he looked out in the harbor and noticed what looked like a ship moving into the harbor and a few others. "Do we have any late-night shipments?" he asked.

"No…" ZWIPPP! "AH!" he screamed falling off the wall to his death being struck by an arrow. His friend was horrified as he looked down and saw many torches light up revealing several black ships and saw what looked to be men aboard. Regaining his composure, he began to run to the bell. Then he when he was getting close, ZWIPP! "UGH!" then falling to the ground realizing he's been shot in the leg. He then began to crawl and reached for the rope and began to pull as many times as possible.

The sound of the bell began to ring through the town as militia and guard in the other bell towers began to ring theirs as well.

(Governor's Residence)

Titus was sleeping in his bed when he woke to the bells. Then hearing a frantic knock on his door. "Come in!" he ordered revealing to be a Legionnaire.

"Sir we are being attacked, the port is being overwhelmed?" reported the soldier.

"By who, orcs?" asked Titus.

"They appear to be pirates sir," said the soldier.

"Corsairs of Umbar," thought Titus. "They've nevered raided us before, why now, no time." Titus then began to walk to his closet opening it revealing his armor. "Tell the garrison and militia to make a defensive perimeter all the way to the marketplace, save as many as they can. Also get a messenger to get a message to Legio VI Neopolis," ordered Titus.

"Yes sir," said the soldier leaving.

(The Inn)

Marcus jolted awake hearing the bell. He jumped out of bed looking out his window and saw people running and screaming. He then looked to his right towards the port and saw building on fire. Then he saw a bunch of militiamen running by going towards the port. This was an attack, whoever they were, they would pay. Marcus then opened the chest in his room and pulled out his two swords. He quickly put on some clothing strapping the two swords to his sides and ran outside.

(Streets of Neopolis)

People were running and screaming in a panic as the wicked Corsairs began to ransack, set buildings on fire, and slaughtering. Armed with Cutlasses, Axes, Hooks, and Bows. The Roman Militia came out trying to do whatever they could to holdback against these pirates. These corsairs were vile and cruel in their attack walking through the militia. The streets were being painted with Roman blood.

Marcus then came upon a bridge over a canal getting some people to safety. "Get going," he said to a woman and children. Then he felt something behind him as he dodged and saw an axe imbedded on in the stone. Spinning around and drawing his Gladius. The Corsair drew his Cutlass. Then came at him with a right slash, Marcus jumped backwards as he began a series of slashes. Marcus parried or dodged them, then the pirate came downward. Marcus blocked the blade. Then drew his second and thrusted it into his chest, his blood all over the ground.

Then he heard a battle cry as a second corsair came at him, dodging his strike and then kicking over the stone railing into the canal. SPLASH! Four more Corsairs came at him, dodging a strike he thrusted his blade in his heart and then pulled it out to block another incoming blade. Then slighting his throat. Then a corsair with a two-handed axe came down, using both swords to block the axe. With him occupied the other corsair with a spear came at him from behind, thing appeared to be over. Then…ZWIPP! The Corsair behind him was shot by an arrow. Marcus then kicked the axe man in the balls then stabbed him with both blades.

He then looked for the source of the shot and their he saw the Dunadain Rangers with his bow out as he shot another arrow killing another Corsair. ZWIIP! Another pirate was coming behind the Dunadain.

"Watch out!" cried Marcus. The Ranger of the North drew his sword cutting the pirates arm off then sticking his belly. At the same time his hood came down revealing a short cut bearded man that was middle aged, with black hair. After engaging another Corsair and killing him he ran to meetup with Marcus on the bridge over the canal. Seven more Corsairs surround both men as they stood back to back. "My name is Vibius Marcus, what is your name stranger?" asked Marcus.

"You can call me Strider," said Strider.

The Corsairs charged both men wanting blood. With ease both men killed all seven enemies in a matter of second. Marcus panting a little, "Strider the Militia won't hold, we need to rally them," said Marcus.

"Indeed, I'll help," said Strider. "We need to gather the men we can and make a stand."

"Agreed, knowing the Governor, he's probably sent word to the Legion, we just have to hold out until they arrive," said Marcus. Both men ran in separate direction to other streets. The Militia barley holding and beginning to lose heart. Marcus ran up and stabbed a pirate in the back. "COME ON, WE ARE ROMAN, DO WE FEAR PIRATES, MILITIA TO ME! Ordered Marcus. The Militia obeyed and began to gather around Marcus. Marcus sheathed one of his swords and picked up an oval shield.

Strider nearby was also inspiring and gathering men to him. "ROMANS TO ME, TO ME!" yelled Strider as they flocked to him and beginning to gain their courage back. Eventually strider and Marcus gather the scatter Militia and together blocked off an entire street. At this moment Legionnaires from the garrison began to join the fray. A huge party of Corsairs were charging towards them. Strider with his bow out was standing with some archers behind the mixed Legionary and Militia line.

"Duck!" ordered Marcus as the men kneeled.

"FIRE!" ZWIIP! yelled Strider as he and the archers fired a volley.

The Corsairs crashed into the line, but despite their ferocity, the line held. The Corsairs would retreat and then charge again at the line, but like a stone wall and the charge crashing into them like a wave, they stood firm. Strider continued to fire arrows along with the archers. After what seemed like an eternity.

TAAARRRRRANNN!

The Corsairs froze in their place knowing what that sound was. "RETREAT WE GOT THE BOOTY WE WANTED!" said a pirate as the Corsairs began to run for their ships all over Neopolis.

For Marcus and Strider, they knew what that sound was and were relieved, the Legion has arrived. The sun started to rise as well. "TAKE THEM DOWN!" yelled Strider.

"FORWARD!" yelled Marcus. All the men then charged with a vengeful battle cry ready to spill enemy blood. Nearby Titus and his garrison began to counter attack as well. The reinforce Legion was making a bee line of the port with all forces in hot pursuit of the pirates. The pirates frantically began to board their ships trying get out of the harbor. Five black ships were in the Harbor docked close together with the Romans pursuing them. Many Corsairs got aboard and were about to set sail, but then they were in such a hurry that three of the ship crashed together and got stuck. Two ship were fortunate to getaway and out of the harbor. The three ships that were left were boarded by the Romans, for they showed no mercy to these Corsairs. Marcus and Strider boarded one of the ships cutting down any pirate that opposed them. The captain went to engage them, but Strider cut off his arm and Marcus stabbed him in the belly finishing him. "ROMA INVICTA!" cheered Marcus as the cheers echoed in the harbor.

Then Marcus on the docks saw a group of horses, one rider holding an Eagle Standard of Legio VI Neopolis. He disembarked and immediately walked towards the Legatus of the Legion who was also standing with the Governor. While the two talked they both noticed the young man approach them. The Legatus then noticed his mark, "You their soldier, report," ordered the Legatus as he dismounted his horse.

"Sir, the Corsairs of Umbar raided this town, I came out of the Inn and with the help of this man," said Marcus as Strider came up next to him. "We rallied the scattered militia and garrision against them."

"Hmm, impressive, well done soldier, what is your name?" asked the Legatus.

"Vibius Marcus sir," said Marcus.

"Marcus, Felix's son, well your becoming quite the soldier, will you be heading back to Roma soon?" asked Legatus. "By the ways I am Legatus Brutus." Then he turned his attention to Strider.

"On behalf of my men and this city I thank you for your help," said Brutus.

"Thank you," said Strider.

"You are always welcomed here," said Titus.

"I shall make a report for you to take back to the Senate, in the meantime it's time to cleanup," said Brutus. "Oh, and Strider, you should go to the Senate as well." Brutus then mounted his horse to help the city recover.

Neo Roma, Senate building Later…

"On behalf of all Roma and the Senate, we thank you Vibius Marcus and your strider of the Dunadain for repelling the Corsairs at Neopolis," said Senator Gracus. The whole senate began to roar in applause.

"I must say young man, you are becoming quite the soldier like your father," said Falco.

"Enough of the praise for now," said Gracus. "Umbar has attacked us and this must not go unpunished. I propose we approve the construction of a navy, all in favor?"

"AYE!" For once it was a unanimous decision.

"You two are dismissed," said Senator Falco. Both men left the room.

"My son," said Felix walking up and giving him a hug. "I am proud of you." He then turned his attention to Strider. "I am Vibius Felix," he said offering his hand.

"Strider," he said shaking his hand.

"Your welcomed to come to my Villa," said Felix.

"I must return to the North," said Strider.

"I see, duty calls," said Felix.

"Guess this is farewell for now," said Marcus.

"Maybe our paths will cross again Marcus," said Strider as he put his hood over and began to walk.

"There is something about that man," thought Felix. "For now, orc invasion, increased raids, and now Corsairs who never attacked us, if Gandalf says shadow is coming. Then this is only the beginning," thought Felix thinking fearfully about what's to come.

Alright guys I hope you enjoyed the first chapter. Look forward to any reviews and PMs. If there anything you think should be added, please let me know.