Chapter Three: Give Us a Chance

DISCLAIMER: I don't own Spartacus, any season, or Harry Potter. I only own my story and any character I might decide to add. I also own Gannicus' background story in this chapter.

AUTHOR'S NOTE: PLEASE READ: SURPRISE! Miss me? Thought I'd died? Well I'll be honest with everyone. My life has been one big roller coaster that seemed to never slow down. I think it's starting to finally calm down but it's been one crazy ride for me and my family. I also loss some motivation to write because of it. But I'm back now and I'm hoping I can stay that way especially with school basically over for the semester. My Harry/Spartacus sequel is also updated now for those who follow that story. I'll try my hardest to keep up with all my stories and get them all finished or basically finished before school starts back up. For those who read my Naruto story I'll get that updated as soon as I can. I will also be doing a remake of one of my stories. Not telling which one but if someone can guess which story is going to be remade I'll not only update the next chapter to this story by the following day the correct answer is given, but I'll also update my other stories and post the first three chapters of the remade story! I'm working on and off on all of them so hopefully I can get it up when it's guessed. ALSO I know a lot of my chapters have typos in them and once I have them all my stories finished I do plan on going back and editing them all pretty much at once but for the next few things I write it'll probably be a little worse as I have a very injured finger so it's a little harder to type right now. Sorry again ahead of time. Now, about this chapter, I couldn't find anything on Gannicus for his background but I'm okay with that because I kinda made my own background for him. One I think matches him perfectly. I hope you all agree and I hope you all enjoy! Thank you all so much for your patience and for waiting so long for these updates. I hope I don't have to make so long again for updates!

"Talk"

'Thoughts'

Chapter Three: Give Us a Chance

Harius' POV:

"Tell me anything you wish to share." I told him shocking myself at how much excitement filled me for simply hearing the man speak of himself.

Gannicus nodded and remained quiet for moment before looking to me once more.

"I grew up in a small village near the sea. We were fishing people." I could not stop the chuckle that escaped.

"Fishing? You?" Gannicus laughed then.

"It is not that far off! My father was the best fisherman to ever walk! He could catch the mightiest of beasts that could feed the whole village for months! He was a man unlike any before him! Always the protector that man was!" I laughed at his boasting before simply smiling.

"What of your mother? What kind of woman was she?" Gannicus' smile softened then.

"She was the fairest in the land with a heart to match. Her touch was taken from me when I was but six years of age."

"Apologies." He shook his head.

"None required. It was a long time ago." He said looking to me.

I blushed and looked away only to tense when I felt him take hold of my hand.

He did not move nor spoke while I grew accustomed to the touch.

It wasn't just the touch I needed to grow accustomed to. The feelings that came with this man's touch scared me more than anything I ever felt before.

Finally I managed to relax and looked to him slightly to let him.

"What happened?" he looked confused.

"Your meaning?"

I hesitated before speaking. "What happened the day you became a slave?" Gannicus tensed then and squeezed my hand tightly causing me to wince.

"That morn my father took me took me out for a fishing trip. We were to catch enough fish to last the winter for the whole village. We were only out for but a few hours when screams were heard from shore. We looked to see Romans attacking. Killing men, raping women, taking children from their mothers. The sight was gruesome." Gannicus said though it appeared he was lost in his memories as his grip continued to tighten.

Though I found I no longer cared.

"Father told me to turn the boat around as he pulled the net back up. The moment we got to shore father rushed the nearest soldier about to rape a young woman and smashed a rock over and over upon his head. Another soldier had snuck up behind him yet before I was able to call out a warming a soldier grabbed me and forced me to stand in line with the others to be turned into a slave." Gannicus finally looked to me then. "I was forced to watch as they beheaded my father."

Without really knowing what I was doing I moved closer to the man and very slowly placed a hand upon his shoulder. Gannicus looked to it in shock before looking to me.

I just stared at him for a moment before I felt him lean into my touch and continued.

"I fought the men that took us. Ended up with more bruises and cuts in that boat ride than any other moment in my life. I refused to be a slave. Refused to kneel before those men who had taken all from me."

"What happened when you landed on Roman soil?" I asked and Gannicus moved his free hand to cover mine that remained on his shoulder.

"I was put on auction like the others. I watched as men and women I had known all my life be sold off to who knew what fate. Some of the men turned into gladiators. I have watched many fall upon its sands." He said and looked to the door. "The day we landed on Roman soil was the day Batiatus bought me. That was about eight years ago (remember none of this I have proven to be true. I made the whole story up. I don't know how old he was when he became a slave nor for how long by the time Gods of the Arena starts. I'm just guessing it'd have to be a good while if he had the whole crowd's favor and so many men fighting to have him under their house)."

"Apologies. I did not mean to bring up such horried memories." I told him when I saw the pain in his eyes.

Gannicus shook his head before looking to me once more. "That is a tale I have never mentioned to another. Not even to Oenomaus." I sat shock then.

"Why mention it to me?" I smirked.

"You asked." I glared then and moved from the man.

"I wished to have a serious talk yet you still try to act childish?" Gannicus laughed then.

"I believe all serious matters should have some fun mixed in. Otherwise all would die young."

"Your attitude will one day get you killed. Not all appreciate a childish man." I warned him yet I smiled at him.

Something about that childish behavior drew me to him.

Gannicus shrugged. "I was blessed enough to have met you. I can die happy no matter the age." I blushed then before standing up and folding in on myself keeping my back to the man.

Suddenly arms were around my waist causing me to tense.

"I seem to recall one's hand upon shoulder but moments ago. Why sudden tension?" he whispered in my ear causing me to shudder. I turned slightly to look at him.

"Hand upon shoulder was for comfort. I caused painful memories to resurface with my question and I felt it was only right to offer comfort however I could."

Gannicus was quiet for a moment. "I can think of other means of comfort that could be offered." I glared then before jabbing him with my elbow to make him release me and moved from his reach before turning my glare to him.

"You are insufferable!" he laughed before raising his hands in surrender.

"Apologies. Do not take my words to heart. I but wished to break the tension." I glared at the man before sighing.

"I am still unfamiliar with touch. In but one day I went from no memory of another's touch to two men touching me. It is going to take a lot of time to get used to." Gannicus stared at me before walking up and placing one hand on shoulder and the other upon face. I tensed but forced myself to relax.

"If I had it my way my touch would be the only one upon you. I can only be satisfied I was the first to offer gentle touch to recent memory." He said and I could only stare at the man.

"You are one strange man." I told him causing him to laugh.

"A strange you cannot turn from." He said and I smiled.

Gannicus smiled to before frowning causing me to stare in confusion. Suddenly he started to lean in closer and understanding came to me when his lips were but inches from mine.

Quickly I pushed from him and stared at the shocked man wide eyed.

"A-apologies Harius I do not know what came over me." I just shook my head and turned to the door.

"Wait!" he cried out causing me to pause just before the door was opened. "Please, come back tomorrow night! I will not act as I just did I swear to you! I do not know what came over me!" I hesitated for a moment before turning to look at him.

"I cannot promise I will be here." Before he could say anything I threw the door open and rushed out and did not slow until I was once more laying in my bed.

Once I was settled I reached a shaky hand to my lips and took in a shuddered breath.

'Just what is this feeling? Why can I not calm my heart? It feels as if it will burst through my chest! I must avoid this man. Whatever is going on with me only started upon our meeting. I must avoid him to see if it goes away.' With that thought I rolled over to get some rest.

While trying to ignore the part of me begging to go back to the man causing the weird feelings.

NEXT MORNING

Gannicus' POV:

I stood on the balcony with Dominus and Oenomaus as Dominus spoke to the men below us.

"We have won many victories in the arena. Sent many an unworthy opponent to the afterlife. Yet self-important men hold us to lesser matches of the morning. Absent both eyes and prominence. Such time has found its end!" Dominus said looking at all the men below us nodding.

"Two days hence, our champion will take to the sands to face another of Vettius' shit-eating dogs! Not in the streets but in the fucking primus!" once those words were spoken the men cheered and I took the chance to look over to Harius who was forced to stand in Varus' hold.

He looked beautiful. His hair was loosely being held up in a gold ribbon with pieces falling in front of his face. His robes, still too form fitting for a male, were sleeveless revealing his shoulders and silver in coloring with light grey designs running along the bottom of them.

Harius looked to me and I begged with my eyes to meet later to speak of what happened yet Harius simply looked from me and refused to return gaze.

I sighed quietly before looking back to Dominus as he continued. "Behold the champion whose recent performance inspired good Varus to return the House of Batiatus to proper position! Behold, Gannicus!" the men cheered as I stepped forward and raised my hand yet felt no pride like I would before Harius.

I could only think of ways to win back his trust.

"What inspired performace? He simply stood there for Varus to look upon. There was no performance!" I heard the bitch known as Gaia say.

"My intended wished to see a match against Gannicus and Oenomaus one that would have taken place had the previous Doctore not lost mind." Varus had said and I growled low so only I could hear upon hearing him call Harius intended.

"A true god of the arena!" Dominus said gaining attention once more. "A man to be admired and emulated! This is but glorious beginning! Soon you will litter the sands with the blood and bone of all who present challenge! Instructed in the ways of death and glory by a former champion! One of our very own! I give you Oenomaus!" Oenomaus stepped forward as the men cheered.

"No longer to hold that name! No longer a gladiator! Now and forever, to be revered as your Doctore!" the men cheered louder as Dominus turned to hand Oenomaus the whip.

"This has been wielded with pride by each before you, since the time of my grandfather. Bestowed only on the most loyal and honorable of men." He said so only those on the balcony could hear.

I shared a look with my brother before trying to catch Harius' eye once more only to find him refusing to look at me still.

"Your will, my hands." Oenomaus said and Dominus nodded.

Not too long after that did Dominus dismiss us and we were lead back to where the slaves were to stay.

"The primus." Oenomaus said bringing me from my thoughts. "To gain such position, Varus must truly have been impressed with your prowess. As am I." I tensed then and turned to look at the man.

"Oenomaus-." Said man held a hand up to stop me from continuing.

"Melitta has already spoken of what almost transpired." I looked to her in shock yet she simply smiled. "I hold no anger towards none but Varus for putting you all in such a position. I also owe Harius for saving a brother and wife." I smiled at the mention of Harius and nodded to Oenomaus.

"Brings joy to heart to know I have no lost a brother or sister." I told them yet I could not find will to celebrate as I only thought of one being. "You would have given me an honorable match had it been allowed to begin." I told him truthfully.

"It is a great honor to be in the primus. For yourself and this ludus." I just thought of Harius and felt I was not of great honor as Oenomaus spoke of.

"Both of you bring honor to this ludus, each in his own way." Melitta spoke.

I smiled at her before turning to leave.

Feeling the need to be alone at the moment.

Oenomaus' POV:

I watched my brother leave before sighing. "Did you note how he could scarce meet my eye? He must now heed my commands, and does not embrace it." I turned to look at my wife. "Will the other men share sentiment toward my 'honored' position?"

"It is his position that stirs troubled thoughts." She said as she walked to stand at my side. "He sets mind to the primus. As you must to training the men." I sighed then and looked from her.

"I know this is not what you wished for."

"And yet here I stand." I looked to her. "Elevated."

"As you deserve." She told me.

"For taking a life? For betraying hand that forged the man before you?"

"There was no betrayal in what you did." She reassured me. "Some acts cannot be avoided when stripped of choice." I thought on her words. "Now, turn thoughts from unfortunate past. We must look towards days to come, and embrace them." I smiled at her before leaning down to kiss her lips.

LATER THAT DAY

Titus' POV:

Upon returning to my villar from a long trip I happened upon Varus holding onto someone.

Upon getting closer I recognized the boy.

"I have said it many times I will not join you in your chambers!" Harius growled trying to get out of the man's grasp.

"Come my pet we are to be married soon. Practice makes perfect does it not?" the man laughed.

"I have also mentioned I would not have you!" Harius growled and that was when I decided I had seen and heard enough.

"Good Varus," I said making both look to me, "I believe the boy has said his peace on the matters at hand." Varus huffed his amusement before loosening his hold so Harius could slip from grasp and moved to stand behind me.

"Apologize good Titus, I merely wished to savor what is soon to be mine."

"What meaning do your words hold?"

"My dear family has promised me to this man." Harius said and I paled at the thought before speaking quickly.

"I shall have words with his family. There has obviously been a mistake." Varus looked confused before anger set in and he stormed off.

I sighed and turned to Harius to see he was trying to fold in on himself.

"Are you alright dear boy?" I asked.

The boy just looked to me and slowly shook his head making me sigh.

Yes I knew of the boy. Most are not aware that I was a friend of his father. I do not believe even my son knows of my relation to the boy. Yet I am unable to help like I wish as I am not his guardian.

Even if I fought to be so. Blood is thicker than water in the eyes of the Senate. There was no hope in Harius going anywhere but his horrid relatives.

When the boy was old enough to understand I told him everything and now I am one of the few he is able to open up to. We somehow manage to continue sending secret letters to one another to make sure we are caught up in each other's lives as much as we are able. As long as I am around I will protect this boy.

"I am sorry I cannot stop their actions Harius." I told the boy.

"It is not your fault Titus, the fault lies with the men who killed my parents." I nodded at his words before smiling at him.

"I will discuss the marriage with your relatives. To be married off to such a horrid man is not who you should be with. If they are not to agree then I will pay them to allow me to pick your spouse."

Harius looked to me shocked. I simply smiled. "I cannot stop their actions fully my boy, I am not your guardian after all, yet I have money to help influence them. They demand you married and I cannot stop that, but perhaps I can help find someone who will treat you right." The boy blinked before smiling brightly.

"It is a true blessing to have you back Titus!" I smiled at the boy and nodded. "How fairs your health?" he asked as we began to walk back to the main part of the ludus.

"Better in recent days. My trip to Sicilia was most helpful in its speedy recovery."

"It lifts heart to see you in such good health." I smiled at the boy only to notice he seemed to have thoughts elsewhere.

"Have I become so dull I am unworthy of your attention?" I joked. Harius blinked before blushing.

"Apologize, my thoughts have been elsewhere as of late."

"Speak mind then, perhaps I can help put them at ease." Harius hesitated and I began to worry about what was bothering the boy.

Harius thought for a long while before he shook his head.

"I cannot good Titus." He said. I went to speak but he stopped me. "I cannot put them into proper words. Once I am able I shall seek your advice out." He said and I smiled at the boy and offered a nod.

"Then I shall wait for the day you seek my aid. Never forget I am always here for you." The boy offered a smile and bow before he rushed off to his room.

I watched the boy go with my own thoughts on what could be causing sure troubled thoughts for the boy. I had a few thoughts on the matter.

And I prayed I was wrong.

Harius' POV:

Having Titus return truly lifted my spirts. Especially with the thought of not having to be married to a man like Varus.

Yet visions of what almost transpired last night still took hold of thoughts.

I sighed and tried to fight the blush that wished to appear upon face.

'I cannot let a mere slave such control over my thoughts!' I thought yet felt vile enter back of throat for thinking such thoughts.

Sighing once more I continued towards my chambers while fighting the urge to return to Gannicus once more.

When I entered my chambers I removed the ribbon to allow my hair to flow freely once more and looked to the door only to feel confusion enter me when the slave girl named Neavia entered bowing as she did so.

"And just what calls you to my chambers instead of my normal body slave?" I questioned and she bowed lower.

"Apologizes young lord, good Varus claimed to not hold trust to your former body slave to your uncle and my Domina offered my aid in his stead. Good Varus claimed no one should be able to gaze upon your form yet the thought of another man angered him more than that of a woman. Apologizes if I am unworthy in your eyes. I may aid this night then speak to my Domina of your displeasure if you so wish it." I looked to the young girl before sighing.

"It appears another choice has been taken from me." Neavia looked up to me then and I moved to my chest. "My night clothing is within. I do hope you are able to change a person without touching. I would hate for you to lose those pretty hands of yours."

"You are most kind for your concern young lord. I promise to be careful when aiding in preparing you for rest." I continued to look at the girl and once more wondering just what it was about these slaves within this villar. Gannicus and his ability to make me feel in ways I do not understand and this young girl in her ability to hide her fear when in my presents. Most do not like the idea of serving me for it is a risk of losing body parts or even their lives.

Coming out of thoughts I spoke once more. "Good. See to it you use those skills."

"Yes young lord." With that she moved to prepare me for rest.

When I was in my night gown we moved to the bed where Neavia unfolded the blanket only to cover me once I was settled upon it.

"That is all for the eve. Do make sure you are on time for waking me in the morn so that I may bathe and re apply my mark in a decent time."

"Yes young lord." She said with one last bow then she exited the chambers blowing the candles out as she went.

I sighed once more when I was alone and laid back in the bed to stare up at the decorated ceiling.

I laid there lost in thoughts for a long while before sleep finally took over.

And dreams of soft brown eyes and warms arms filled my dreams.

MEANWHILE

Quintus' POV: (When his dad is in the scenes I'll use their first names to keep the confusion down)

I walked quickly towards father trying to hide my embarrassment as I made myself properly dressed once more.

I made it to stand in front of father's desk as the man remained silent for a few moments as he read the parchments before him.

"I leave this house in your care, and this is what greets me upon return?" he finally spoke.

"I was not expecting your arrival." I admitted. My words caused the man to look up to me.

"Am I to announce myself to the walls that I own?"

"Of course not. Yet had I known of your return from Sicilia-."

"The knowledge would have produced what result?" father asked stopping me from finishing my words. "Huh?" he asked once more. "Flowers and scented oils laid to meet me, masking sight of my son gone to shit?"

"I but celebrate." I exclaimed barely hiding my annoyance.

"Upon what cause?" father asked. "Angering Tullius with refusal of reasonable offer? Your exclusion from the games? Allowing men such as that shit eating Varinius and his retched family remain within these walls?"

I looked to the man in shock. "How do you come by that?"

Father stood then. "I am old, Quintus, not dead." I looked down then. "There are still those in Capua that hold my name in regard, and would see me well informed. Good Solonius counted among them."

"Solonius?"

"He sent word of his concerns regarding your dealings with Tullius."

"The man is seized by unnecessary worry." I tried to reason with father.

"Your face suggests otherwise." I looked from the man then.

"A minor disagreement."

"Nothing with a man such as Tullius is ever minor." Father growled gaining attention as he rounded the desk. "A fact obvious to the simplest of minds."

"Then it is a blessing a greater one than mine has arrived." I told him barely holding in the growl that wished to be freed.

Father sighed. "My frustration is more with myself." I watched the man as he walked to the balcony. "You never wished for this. The ludus, gladiators, the blood, the sand. Your eyes were always towards the horizon. To glories and triumphs forever out of reach of a common lanista."

"And yet here I stand. A lanista. Like my father." I said looking to the man.

"Not like him at all." I looked from him once more to hide my anger and pain. "You have never been able to look into the eyes of a man and gauge his true heart." I glared at the man then.

"Only days past, I looked into the eyes of Quintilius Varus. And "gauged" way to secure the primus in his games." Father looked to me shocked and seemed to be thinking of something as well.

"Varus has never employed a lanista not blessed by Tullius. Why now break tradition? Would it have to do with Harius being married off to him?" once more I looked to the man in shock. "I do know of the boy Quintus. As I have said I am old not dead. I happen to have been good friends with his father before he and his wife left for the afterlife. A thing you were unaware of."

"How is it I never knew of this?!" I asked still shocked.

"Because I never had the man over to this villar. In fact, it was on the road to meet me here for dinner that they met their end. I fought to take the boy in as my own yet blood always runs thicker than water in the eyes of the Senate. Because we do not share blood I was unable to save the boy from those horrid people. And yet here I find my son working with that fat shit and allowing a poor boy to be married off to Varus?!"

"It's my aiding that will get me within the Senate itself!" I growled at the man.

"So it is about power then? Have you learned nothing in my teachings?" he asked and I looked from the man.

"I plan to speak with the boy's relatives and paying his family to break the bond tying Harius to that man and picking his spouse myself." I looked to the man and fought to hide my growing anger.

"What would cause you to act so noble?"

"Unlike my son I care for others and their happiness." I glared once more at the man yet remained silent. "Why else would Varus break tradition?" he asked.

"I possess what Tullius does not. Gannicus."

Father laughed then. "Gannicus? That man is a jest, inciting more laughter than awe. And now I find him desired by half of Rome? And I also return to hear that poor Harius is to be married off to the man?"

"Much has changed in your absence." I told him.

"And much has remained the same." I looked from the man once more then looked to him as he continued. "I would review my men, and see how they have fared, denied proper guidance." Father left and I glared at his back as I moved to follow the insufferable man.

WITH THE GLADIATORS

Gannicus' POV:

I sat eating with the others listening to Barca and Auctus fooling the Syrians into thinking they were worthy of respect only for them to realize the men had pissed in their food once more.

"We bear the fucking mark!" Asher yelled.

"Yet did not past test! A goat could bare mark yet it does not make him a brother!" Auctus yelled.

Asher translated for his brother who tried to charge Auctus yet I stood and stopped him from going anywhere.

Asher rushed over and pulled his brother from me and spoke in their home tongue before dragging him off.

I turned and threw bread at Auctus from making a scene then sat back down to eat.

Only to look up once more when Oenomaus sat in front of me.

"You should not eat with lower men, you are Doctore now." I reminded him.

"A title I did not seek. I would not have events absent my control come between us. I did not let it when it nearly happened to you and Melitta." He pointed out and I nodded my agreement.

"Ah, grettings." A voice said making us look to see Dominus' father, Titus, had returned.

"Auctus!" he said and greeted the man patting his shoulder.

"Nurto." He said next as Oenomaus stood and walked to the man.

"Oenomaus!" the man said fondly as the two embraced.

"You assume mantle of Doctore?" he asked as they parted.

"After unfortunate death of his predecessor. I chose Oenomaus as replacement knowing that he-." Dominus started yet his father spoke over him.

"Gather food and let us retire to your cell. I would exchange stories of the passing years, old friend."

Oenomaus smiled brightly and quickly gathered his things then followed the old man to his cell.

I sighed and went back to my food only as thoughts once more went towards emerald colored eyes.

LATER THAT NIGHT

Varinius' POV:

"What draws your father's presence to Capua?" I asked Quintus as I watched the man pace.

"I do not know dear friend. Let us hope he departs quickly. Has the man spoken to you of his intent yet?" Quintus asked.

"He has after leaving that slave's chambers. I must admit the amount he offers makes it worth listening to the man. Yet I do not trust him. I shall think on it and make decision quickly. It appears he has already run into Varus and spoke of his intent as well." Quintus sighed.

"Apologizes my good friend."

I shook head. "None required. The world does not run on predictability after all." Quintus smiled at me before pacing once more.

"Let us pray father's health becomes an issue once more so that he quickly returns to Sicilia. In the meantime inform Varus and my father of your desires and I shall aid regardless of decision. After all you aided in gaining Varus' favor of Gannicus which sealed my place in the Primus."

"Gratitude good Quintus. Your father's return shall not cease our rise to power." I told him and the man smirked.

"No it shall not." With that he left the room to return to his wife's arms as I returned to mine for the eve.

MORNING

Titus' POV:

I watched my gladiators prepare to train when a voice spoke from behind.

"Your return lifts the heart, Dominus." I turned and offered kind smile to Melitta.

"Only for those who yet possess one." I told her taking a piece of the food she offered. "Gratitude." She bowed with a smile and moved to leave after place the plate down and I returned to watching my men.

Oenomaus walked onto the sands and tried to get the men training by assigning Barca to train and new recruit.

When Barca raised complaints on the matter I spoke up for my old friend. "Barca," all men looked to me, "do as your doctore commands."

"Yes Dominus." He said then began his training with the new recruit.

I watched the man until I felt a presence beside me and felt annoyance enter me upon seeing Gannicus finally make appearance when I felt a presence behind me.

"Apologize. You rise earlier than expected." My son said.

"I rise at proper hour. An attribute neither you nor your man Gannicus seem to share." I said looking to the Quintus.

"Harsh words will find the man's ear." He said walking to my side.

"Uh, it could be shouted yet ignored." I said watching as Gannicus took a seat with drink in hand.

"Gannicus is no champion. I would promote Auctus or half a dozen men in his place."

"A matter we disagree on." Quintus said after taking drink of water.

"One of many." I told him before looking to the new recruit once more. "What man spars with Barca?"

"Crixus, a fierce Gaul or worthy stock." I nodded at his words.

"I recall name from ledger. A sapling of exceeding cost." I said looking to my son.

"The will earn the mark, and see investment well returned." He vowed.

We looked back to the men then. "Doctore," my son suddenly yelled, "Bring Crixus up! My father would have closer inspection-."

"No, continue training." I told the man and looked to my son. "We are to town for necessary business."

"I will have Barca prepared as an escort." I glared at his words.

"Barca is a gladiator. Trained to wield weapon in the arena. Not be yours in the street. Now come. Your late rise already threatens the appointed hour." I commanded as I moved to leave my house for town.

Quintus' POV:

As we walked in town towards the butchery I saw the shit that humiliated me sitting within and stopped father from going further. "You would have me sit with this fucking shit?" I quietly growled at the man.

"I would have you silent. While I attempt repair of damaged relation." Father said as he walked closer to the shit.

"Titus," the shit spoke as he stood to greet father, "good to lay eyes, old friend." The shit hugged father as he turned gaze to me as I glared at the man before he pulled from father to have proper conversation. "Your experience in delicate matters of business has been sorely missed."

"To be rectified presently." Father told the shit.

"Come, sit." Tullius spoke as they moved to sit. "You recall my associate, Vettius?"

"Vettius? Oh, you were but a child last I knew. How the years flee from us." Father said. "How fares your father?"

"Dead." The smaller shit spoke as he kept gaze upon me to which I returned with a glare.

"Oh, apologies. How terrible." Father spoke softly.

"The boy is ill-starred acquaintance with such misfortunes. Why only days past he was set upon in our own streets, on way to appointment with Quintilius Varus." Tullius spoke.

"Varus?" Father questioned.

"The same man who, absent Vettius' presence, managed to find way to your ludus-."

"Where this fucking cock eater stole the primus from me!" Vettus growled towards me.

"Vettius! Hold your tongue." Tullius exclaimed calming the shit down.

Father turned to me. "How do you answer this?"

I laughed. "He accuses absent cause. My wife and her friend Gaia came upon good Varus in town, baking under noon-day sun."

"Gaia?" Tullius questioned.

"She knew Varus from her days in Rome, offered respite in my villa while he waited for the absent boy to come to purpose. A fortuant coincidence for all involved." Said smirking at the shit.

"And was it this same fortune that saw me set upon by your fucking men?" Vettius growled while Tullius tempted to calm.

"Did you see faces?" I asked the boy. "Did they bear my mark, you wet cunt-."

"Enough!" father growled and I turned gaze to him. "Remove yourself to the street." I stared at father. "Go! And leave reasonable men to discourse." I huffed at father before storming onto the streets.

Gannicus' POV:

"Are we to follow Barca's orders now?" I asked my brother as we watched the Gaul make way to wooden stump to train.

"He shares my thoughts. The Gaul falters against spear. Perhaps advice from a champion would aid in his cause." Oenomaus spoke looking to me with a smirk as he walked off.

I sighed before making way to the man. "Days past you fought me with something approaching skill. Yet opposite Barca, you act as his lover. Face down with cheeks spread."

"The spear is unknown to me." The man said yet refused to turn gaze as he went to training once more.

I stopped him mid swing confused. "You are Gaul. Did you never face the Arverni?"

"My years before capture never held the privilege." He admitted.

"They wield spear with deadly purpose." I said looking the man over. "As does Barca, from the judging."

"He but instructs. Each blow a lesson never to be repeated." He said.

I laughed. "You should be quite the scholar. By the time he has beaten you to death." I went to leave then yet caught a quick glimpse of black and emerald upon the balcony causing me to sigh.

"Crixus," I called turning to the man once more and knocked wood from grasp, "you fought well against my two swords. Rid a Hoplomachus (literally what the subs said. Idk if it's right though) of his spear, and he is left with only one weapon." I advised before turning from the man.

With a quick glance to the balcony once more I called out to Barca. When I gained the man's attention I smirked. "If you're done with your man's cock, I would have proper contest." Both men laughed.

"The gods bless Barca with another tiny man to fuck." Atucus called as the others laughed and Barca moved to prepare to spare with me.

All the while I fought to catch quick glimpses to the balcony.

Harius' POV:

"Your Gannicus appears in fine form." Gaia spoke and I found myself fighting to respond as if she spoke to me.

"As he will in the primus," Lucretia said and I turned from my position at the railing to look to her, "elevating the house with glorious performance." She finished and I turned gaze back to the man as he spared and let a small smile appear upon lips when I kept seeing his gaze quickly meet mine before letting it drop.

"My heart yet races at the thought of his near last." I tightened my fists upon hearing the bitch speak of the man in such a way before forcing myself to calming and remind myself he means nothing to me.

Or should not mean nothing at least.

"We'll place such memories behind us." Lucretia warned the bitch.

Gaia sighed and moved to sit by Lucretia. "A difficult feat, when nearly enjoyed by all."

"Except those involved in the act." I spoke without being able to cease the words.

"Your meaning?" Gaia asked and I turned to her.

"They clearly did not wish to perform such an act. And I do not see the grace you do when a gladiator fucks." I told her while fighting images of a certain gladiator that wished to cloud thoughts.

"Well then, it appears some more than others enjoy the thought of what nearly happened." Gaia said with a giggle as the two women flirted with one another.

"Apologies Domina, guests have arrived." Neavia spoke.

"Guests?" Lucretia questioned looking to Gaia as she moved to stand.

I looked to Gannicus once more before following after the two women.

Only to pause upon seeing who it was.

"Varus! We were not expecting!" Lucretia said happily as I glared at the man.

I found joy like no other when he spoke of needing to leave as his presents was needed elsewhere. It had been so long I had prayed he would stay gone. Were I so lucky. (So completely forgot this man doesn't stay in the villar that he left and came back. So to make this scene make since let's just all agree that Harry and Varus spoke behind the scenes and Harry just never felt the need to mention the man again.)

Varus smiled and moved to come to my side. "Oh, the fault is mine, for failing to announce." Varus went to touch me and I moved from his reach only for him to step closer and pull me tightly to him.

I fought for a moment before admitted defeat and remained still.

Varus seemed pleased as he began to speak once more. "Good Cossutius," he spoke mentioning the hideous looking man with him, "is on stay from Rome to celebrate the Vinalia. After I extolled the virtues of the house of Batiatus-."

"I demanded introduction immediately." The man finished for Varus.

"You honor us," Lucretia spoke, "but my husband tends to final preparations for tomorrow's games in town."

"Oh, how disappointing." The man said looking to Varus.

"Yet we could remove ourselves to the balcony for proper viewing of his gladiators until his return." Gaia spoke causing all but myself and the slaves to laugh.

"I fear you mistake intent." Varus spoke causing all to look to him. "I was not regaling Cossutius with tales of your men. But of your house's more….intimate delights." Varus said looking to Melitta.

"And I believe nothing of the sort transpired. Why mention such a thing to your friend?" I asked making Varus look to me.

"True, my pet, nothing transpired. Yet I was able to see and touch just enough to know I spoke nothing but truths to good Cossutius.

"I fear that would have been a special consideration." Lucretia tried looking between Melitta and myself.

Varus looked to her. "Was it?" it asked before sharing a gaze with his friend. "Perhaps Vettius will be more accommodating then. Concerning this and my primus. I shall return my pet."

"I would prefer you remain absent sight." I told him. Varus glared before sighing and moving towards his friend.

"It would be unfortunate to have come so far, and find hands empty. Would it not?" Gaia questioned looking to Lucretia who seemed to think on her words.

"Varus came unannounced. Would it not be his fault should he leave with empty hands?" I questioned and both women glared at me.

I glared right back.

"While my intended needs to watch that mouth of his, his words do hold truth to them. Perhaps my words were a bit harsh. Apologies, perhaps another time when there is not as much excitement within the walls good Cossutius?" Varus looked to his friend who seemed angry yet nodded his agreement.

"Well then I shall see him off and return shortly my pet." Varus said to me and I glared at me.

"Do take as much time as needed." Varus glared once more at me and made to leave.

"Wait!" Lucretia suddenly called making all look to her. "You do not have to announce your arrival within this villar good Varus. Especially since we house you intended safely within them. Therefore, anyone who is a friend of yours is more than welcome within these walls as well. I would not have good Cossutius leave with empty hands." Varus and his friend smiled while Gaia vocalized her happiness on the matter.

I merely looked to the slaves, especially Melitta, in worry.

"Let us prepare Gannicus and-." Gaia went to point to Melitta yet Lucretia stopped her before I was able.

"No. What joy is there in exploring ground already discovered?" Cossutius smiled at her.

"None at all." He spoke as they all laughed.

"What do you offer?" Varus questioned.

"A gladiator of your choosing, paired with a slave as yet untouched." I looked to Neavia and her friend and felt dread for one of their fates.

I managed to cease Melitta and Gannicus from being forced. I do not believe I will be able to a second time. Especially in this situation.

"Untouched?" Cossutius asked in surprise. "A delicacy no longer present at the moment in my house." I glared at the man.

"Then it is fortunate you find yourself in ours." Lucretia spoke as the vile man eyed the poor women about to go through hell.

'Slave or not no one deserves to be forcibly plucked.' I thought sadly as Varus forced me to leave the room with him and the others so his friend my pick his victim.

Quintus' POV:

As I waited for father to emerge I turned and saw a familiar figure walking the streets. "Solonius! A word." Said man started to me as I moved to meet him.

"I would share its equal." He said pushing a merchant woman from his path. "I came to you as trusted friend, carrying news of Tullius' renewed offer towards Gannicus-."

"You carried but shit, spewed from an errant hole." I said interrupting him.

"And what of other knowledge I lightened upon treacherous ears?" he questioned. "That of Varus' arrival, to be met by Vettius?"

"Vettius is a fool."

"Under the employ of Tullius!" Solonius exclaimed. "He will think I had hand in the boy's assault-."

"He suspects nothing! Is thoughts have turned towards my father inside." Solonius looked to where father was. "What ceases fucking mind, dispatching message to him?!"

"Your father is in Capua?"

"He sits with Tullius as you bleat, strocking fucking cock."

"Why do you reamin in the streets?" he questioned making me point to my face.

"Oh, why do you think?!"

Solonius sighed. "I did not mean for his return. I sought only advice, towards worry from a man I hold as brother." He said and made to hold the back of my neck. I pushed his hand from me as I spoke.

"Intentions well-received. Let us place transgressions aside," I paused upon seeing Tullius and father exit, "in favor of more pressing concern." We moved closer to the men then.

"Your patience and reason recalls joyous times, when business was conducted by those who shared respect for it." Tullius said with hand upon father's shoulder.

"I fear we are a dying breed." Father joked.

"I'm sure you'll out live us all." Solonius said causing all to look to him.

"Solonius. I hardly placed you. The years weigh heavy on a man, do they not?" father asked making Solonius look saddened some.

"Your presence is fortuitous, striking need to seek you out." Tullius said and I looked to Solonius confused. "Share walk, and let us review recent events."

Solonius looked to me and father before following Tullius.

When the men were gone father turned to me.

"Am I allowed voice now?" I asked him.

"Could the gods halt the sound?" he asked before walking off.

"Whatever Tullius and the boy may think I gained the primus on merit of Gannicus' prowess." I told father as we stopped to let a slaver pass.

"Even if true, it is or no matter now. Gannicus will not appear in the games." I looked to father shocked as we continued to walk.

"But Varus has made personal request!"

"A necessary sacrifice, towards leveling unequal ground. You will make apology to Varus, relaying Gannicus found injury in training. And that Vettius is amply capable of seeing the primus attended."

"You give away the primus, and now ask that I tongue the fucking boy's ass?" I growled to father.

"I ask nothing." Father growled back. "This is how it will be. In return a few of our men will be paired against each other after mid-day sun."

"Our men fight themselves?" I asked.

"The only plank salvaged from such wreckage."

"Then we must choose the men with care." I said.

"They have been chosen for us." I growled at his words.

"Tullius now selects my fucking men as well?"

"An unavoidable concession. Barca and Gnaeus, Auctus and to face the Gaul, Crixus."

"Crixus? Is but a recruit, not yet a fucking gladiator!" I exclaimed.

"Who you failed to mention was purchased from Tullius."

"To gain-." I paused and growled once more. "To gain his favor."

"And what fruits did your scheme bear? Huh? Oh, this is price due for attempting to maneuver men above your station. Be thankful it was not more costly." Father said as he walked off.

BACK WITH HARIUS (For obvious reasons I skipped the whole 'entertainment' bit including conversations during it. So this will start shortly after they leave)

Harius' POV:

Just when joy filled me upon seeing both horrid men leaving the villar screaming was heard causing Lucretia, Gaia, my aunt- who decided to grace the villar with her presents finally, and myself to rush to the balcony to see the gladiators fighting or attempting to cease the fighting.

I noticed it was the two recruits who suddenly gained the mark and one called to Crixus who remained still. Gannicus was beside the man and turned to speak with him and whatever was spoken left Gannicus impressed based upon his look.

Gannicus looked up to the balcony and seemed to notice my return as he offered a small smile. I gazed around me to see if anyone noticed before returning the smile and feeling joy enter me upon seeing his being light up.

"Have you lost fucking mind?!" a voice could be heard over the battle cries. "Stand down!" I looked to where it was coming from to see Oenomaus entering the fight now to aid in ceasing it.

Oenomaus was punched in the face which seemed to piss Gannicus off enough to finally enter the fight as well.

Upon him entering I found myself gripping the railing tightly and silently praying he did not get badly injured.

The gates opened and Titus walked back into his villar only to pause in shock.

"Calm yourselves!" he said for the men to hear who immediately ended the fighting. "Is this what my house has fallen to? Brother setting upon brother, so far removed from the honor of the arena, where such contest holds meaning?" the gladiators all looked down in shame upon hearing his words. "This points to reason the gods have turned from us, stripping the primus from our hands." His words confused and worried me as I gazed back to Gannicus to gauge his reaction.

"I do not fight in the games?" he asked Titus.

"You do not." Titus growled and Gannicus was not able to cease himself from looking up to the balcony. Looking up to me.

My breath ceased and I looked to see if it was noticed yet it appeared Lucretia was offering Gannicus a smile. Meaning it appeared Gannicus was looking for comfort from his Domina.

I used the opportunity to offer my own comforting smile appear on face.

Yet our gazes did not go unnoticed as both Batiatus men looked between us. The older appeared shocked and the other angered. Fear entered me and I instantly looked from Gannicus praying Titus would not allow anything to happen to the man simply for accepting my smile.

"Yet our sacrifices do not stand unrewarded." Quintus spoke up. "A few of you will take to the sands after mid-day sun."

"And I expect those chosen to bring more honor to the House of Batiatus than you now bring yourselves." Titus finished as he stormed from the area.

Gannicus looked to me once more and I just offered a sad smile as I followed the others back into the villar.

Worry still filling my being.

LATER

Gannicus' POV:

I sat within the bathing chambers lost in my thoughts not caring what the men said and did around me.

That is, until the Gaul spoke.

"Am I to fight?" he asked gaining my attention.

"You are to die. At the end of my spear." Auctus growled at him as I was both he and Barca push the Gaul.

"So you are to fight in the arena, I do not. The gods truly punish me." I said thinking of Harius as well.

"I long to be of the brotherhood. To become a gladiator. But to be awarded position it is an honor I have not earned."

"There are many things given to us in this life, for the wrong reasons. What we do with such blessings that is the true test of a man." I told the Gaul.

With a sigh I stood and left the bathing chamber wishing to be alone.

As I was approaching my chambers I found Oenomaus near the edge of the cliff swinging his whip lost in thought.

The man looked to want to be alone as I so I let the man be and turned for my chambers once more.

Only to stand shocked upon seeing Harius there.

Harius quickly stood from my bed as I made sure Oenomaus had not seen him before shutting the door and turning to him.

"Apologies for entering without permission." He said and I shook head.

"If it is you then no permission is needed." I told him as he nodded.

We stood silent for a moment before Harius sighed and rushed me only to wrap his arms around my waist.

Shocked I looked down at him before slowly wrapping my arms around him as well suddenly feeling calmer than I was a moment ago.

That feeling caused me to tighten my hold upon him.

We stayed like that for a few moments before Harius pulled from me.

"I cannot being to understand how you are feeling, and it is because of that I know my apology will not aid in taking your pain away." I smiled at him before reaching a hand up to hold his face.

Happy he did not flinch from me.

"You being here takes any sorrow I felt from me. I truly believed I ran you off the other night. I was growing worried." I admitted.

"Apologizes for that as well. I was shocked and scared. The feelings the simple act that was not even completed drew from me scared me more than anything." I looked into his eyes before speaking.

"What feelings?" I asked.

"Like my heart would beat from chest. Like I could not breathe suddenly. I have never felt such things before." My own heart rose in joy and any thoughts on the primus suddenly vanished as I held the creature within my arms.

"May we try once more? No surprises this time?" Harius smiled before paling and backing from me.

"I should not have come. You are in danger." His words confused me.

"How so?"

"Titus and Quintus saw our exchange earlier. I believe they were the only ones but they still saw. If it gets back to my uncle then your life-."

"Shh." I whispered calmly pulling him back to me once more. "This is the first I have heard anything of the matter. Because of this I do not believe your uncle is aware just yet. Yet I recall it would risk your life as well should we be caught. Why only worry for my life?" I questioned.

Harius looked up to me. "I do not hold a proper answer. I barely know you, yet I feel like my heart will cease if anything happens to you." upon hearing his words I could not fight anymore and rushed forward to capture his lips with mine.

Harius tensed and I began to believe I screwed up badly until he slowly started to relax and even return the kiss.

When I felt him return it I moved to hold his face with both hands and deepened the kiss.

The kiss felt like nothing I had ever experienced before. It was like all my troubles suddenly vanished and the only two people on this earth were Harius and I. I was instantly hooked on the feel and taste of his soft lips. Like peppermint leaves had been lightly brushed against them.

The kiss continued until we both needed air and I placed my forehead upon his.

When he was able Harius spoke. "You are a fool." I smirked.

"So I have been told. Yet this time I find it is worth anything that is about to happen. I don't really understand it myself. All I know is I cannot let you go now. You are becoming my everything. Why not give us a chance?"

Harius looked to me shocked before tears entered his eyes and he leaned in for another kiss.

I was fully aware this is all we could do, and normally I was be pissed with that knowledge. Yet with Harius I found I did not care. Just being able to hold him was more than enough for now. Even if it was all I could do and my life will now end I would die content.

Harius pulled from me with a sigh. "I cannot stay. I must return quickly and make sure no one has told uncle yet." I nodded before stealing one last kiss and moved to the door. After I opened it I made sure my brother was gone before motioning for Harius to go on.

He paused to steal one more kiss and offered a smile before darting off for the building.

I watched until he was out of view before shutting the door and leaning on it as I felt my lips.

Suddenly feeling lighter than feathers.

With a smile I moved to my bed and fell asleep dreaming of soft lips and emeralds.

NEXT MORNING

Harius' POV:

My heart was still pounding in chest from what happened the previous night.

I fought off the smile that wished to take its place as I watched Gannicus wish his brothers luck.

"After all we've done. The sacrifices made. Only to have the primus torn from grasp." Lucretia said.

"Dear friend it will be alright my husband shall still aid in your man's rise to power within the Senate." My aunt said and lightly rolled my eyes so no one would see.

"Torn would imply resistance." Quintus said as if aunt never spoke. "My father offers none."

"Could you not move him from this decision?" Lucretia asked.

"Hercules would fail in the labor." Quintus spoke softly.

I slightly turned gaze to the man and he noticed my gaze only to return it with a glare.

I looked from the man back to Gannicus and fear entered me once more.

"Are we set to leave?" all turned to Titus as he entered the balcony. "I would not arrive late."

"Doctore gathers the men." Quintus said.

"Perhaps some mulsum while you wait, father." Lucretia offered. "To celebrate your return to the games."

"You seek to play me with honeyed-wine?" Titus asked the bitch.

I turned to see Lucretia lost for words until Titus smiled. "You found my weakness." He told her. "And I would have it exploited." He laughed.

"I shall join you." Quintus said.

"It disquiets your stomach too much." Lucretia said to her husband. "Especially in hot weather such as this."

"It never did agree with you." Titus told him. "A trait gained from your mother."

"A presence sorely missed." Quintus said.

"Every day." Titus said and moved to stand at my side. "Your Gaul appears ragged." He spoke as he kept his gaze on Crixus.

I felt something touching my hand and when I looked to see a folded parchment I looked to Titus who refused to meet gaze.

Quickly making sure no one noticed I took the paper and hid in within my belt of my robes.

"The result of extensive training. In preparation for the test he has yet to take." Quintus said moving by his father.

"You set this in motion Quintus. By purchasing the man to gain favor." Titus told his son.

"Only after I looked into his eyes, and saw a spark. As you always spoke of." Quintus exclaimed.

"Then today presents rare opportunity. Auctus, a man forged beneath my rule, to face Crixus, forged beneath yours." He turned fully to his son then. "The outcome to prove if son has learned anything of worth from father."

"Then let us see it done." Quintus said as they left to get their men ready. I turned to Gannicus once more and returned a small smile to match his own before getting out of the heat that already made the day horrid feeling.

Upon entering I went to my chambers and made sure the door was shut before reading the paper given moments earlier.

'Meet in my studies upon our return. There appears to be some secrets that need to be brought to light.'

And just like that the fear returned full force.

PLEASE READ: What did you think? I'll be honest it's 5:30 in the morning and I'm very tired so I'm keeping this short. I hope you all liked this chapter and its length and I'll see you in the next one! Also please check out the Harry/Spartacus sequel update too!