Chapter 9: Deceptio

Agron stood at side of Spartacus and Crixus as the men looked across field of Roman tents now filled with the dead. Mission of assault upon portion of Roman army had seen success with but minimal injury to rebels – of which Nasir had already given treatment – and now task lay before them as to how to succeed against remaining enemy which yet numbered over a thousand men. Sun was soon to rise and all would be exposed once camp was not guarded by darkness.

Nasir had seen completion of his own task of laying eyes upon remainder of enemy's camp and had given report to Spartacus that guard was much more secure about remaining Romans. The Syrian had offered reasoning to possibly stand that those they had already laid waste to had been those to bear lesser skill and rank and Spartacus had voiced agreement that they may have been auxiliary conscripts as the Thracian had once been. Regardless of reason for difference of camp organization and defenses, they would not succeed in attack by same strategy they had used this night.

Strategy had worked this night for many reasons besides lack of proper defenses of their enemy. Length of time spent idle battle had allowed Roman soldiers to grow complacent and any who had made discovery of attack had been too delayed in raising alarm or launching counter before being struck down. Further benefit was known when it was discovered that portion of tents close to hill leading to other half of encamped army had been those for slaves and so it had been common sight for those not clad in Roman garb to move about tents. Many had been struck down for believing rebel was willing hole to fuck.

There now stood nearly two hundred newly freed slaves who had greeted presence of Spartacus with baffled joy for they had held no expectation to see rebel leader take action which would see them from shackle. They were deep within Lucania and Spartacus had not travelled so far from Capua since fall of Batiatus' ludus.

Agron had not held expectation for those who had been so far removed from cities had even heard of rebellion. When he had voiced thought to Nasir, the Syrian had lifted his shoulders briefly in denial of understanding yet broke words that many Romans did not make habit of holding tongue for presence of slave. Subject upon tongue of all Rome was rebel uprising and it would not be difficult matter to hear whispers of man who led such force.

Presence of slaves within camp, however, did not alter risk of discovery they were to soon face.

Many who had taken part in assault were now making attempt to delay discovery by moving all bodies within concealment of tents and all rebels and newly freedmen had donned garb of Roman soldiers. Those who were dark of skin were in full Roman armor and took place of guards or dressed as slaves, removing all armor and weapons. Most remained near hill leading to other camp and numbers thinned as distance increased from line of vision. With near four hundred partaking in deception perhaps it would not be noticed if gazed upon from distance alone. Concern was in that Roman soldiers passed between both portions of camp often and for none to make appearance upon hill may be noticed by late morning, midday meal at latest.

For Nasir's ability, he was to remain nearest to enemy camp and had departed for position after making report to Spartacus and Agron was anxious to be at his side as he should have been during attack through night.

Spartacus had almost given instruction for Agron to remain near the Thracian for sake of leading but had ceased before breaking words when the German had cast gaze of fury toward his brother. Spartacus did not fear Agron, knowing he stood as one of few – two – men of whom the German would heed to restrain himself, yet he also recognized there were commands which should not be given. After many days of distance between Agron and Nasir having followed weeks of separation the two should be allowed to share company. Should discovery be made and battle ensue, there stood none more capable of providing protection over inexperience of the Syrian which would be allowed by the wild man.

So with better plan yet to be discovered, rebels put forth illusion of standing as Romans they had struck down and Agron sought out his heart. It took some measure of time to find where the smaller man had gone as he had not broken words over where he would stand guard. The German found him at last, kneeling near bank of river with bucket set before him for use of cleansing blood and dirt from skin. Task was nearly finished, his hair smoothed against head and dripping water down bare chest and already rid of all grime as arms and hands were rubbed with length of cloth. Agron had already removed signs of battle as he had changed into stolen clothing and light armor of Roman soldier relaxing within safety of camp but he knew Nasir would have taken responsibility of seeing others to task in aid of deception and was likely to only now have gained leisure of time to be cleaned.

Agron could not deny pleasure of watching his heart in task, his eyes unable to turn from attractive sight of darkened skin – wounds yet healing barely noticed for the German's rise of emotion – and tightly formed muscles of narrow back and shoulders shifting with motion of hands. It was moments such as this where he was allowed opportunity to simply take in sight of his heart where Agron failed to understand how he held such ease in calming aggressive nature enough to never press Nasir beyond what was desired. How did he not fuck him as he had fucked others through his life: as pursuit of satisfaction and release where pleasure of partner was secondary to his own. While he was a man who held deep care for those close to him, he was a warrior above all else and it was through blade and shield that he expressed care for another with ease.

This was not so with Nasir, had never been his way with Nasir. It had been easy task for tenderness to be shown the Syrian from the moment dark eyes had turned to Agron and name had been spoken, made only easier with each passing day and breaking of words which gave revelation of the manner of man Nasir was. And Nasir had appeared to understand Agron as few others had. He had seemed to understand the German's need to touch him, had accepted that Agron was a tactile man who communicated through touch both aggressive and kind. Before heart had been shared, his hands had reached out for need to feel life within younger man he held desire to not see fall as he had seen and felt Duro fall. Once feelings had deepened and been realized for the love it was, to lay hands upon the Syrian's skin became privilege Agron refused to squander. His hands were welcome upon Nasir's body and he used caress to admit the Syrian's hold over him as his words never could.

Nasir replied same message though in different manner Agron was yet learning to understand as the past few days had given proof of.

"I am fortunate to hold no need of seduction for skill in such act appears lost to me," Nasir's amused voice called over to Agron and the German held need to shake heavy thoughts from mind to focus upon his heart.

When Agron at last was capable of putting meaning to words broken he smiled widely and closed remaining distance between them. Taking knee at Nasir's back, he folded his body over the smaller one, his clothed chest pressing firmly against the Syrian though his motions were slow and controlled so as to not push into the younger man enough to truly aggravate wounds. He reached out and took cloth from Nasir's hands and assumed task of wiping last stains of blood – Nasir's jest given meaning by how little yet remained and it was known that the Syrian had delayed for sake of green eyes upon him – from skin softer than Agron's. Nasir had told of how the man who had owned him had held preference of those he fucked to have skin unblemished and cared for – such standing as reason Nasir had not been branded – and so the Syrian had been made to endure oils spread over him, the fragrances often strong enough to cause him headache he was more prone to experiencing for his talent. While time as rebel had hardened the Syrian with haste, treatments while in years of growth would not fade with ease and skin yet held softness akin to when he had first been freed.

Agron held no preference for it was Nasir who held his heart and not the body of the younger man he cared for, though he did know appreciation for skin hardened through training and battle made his heart feel more like living man instead of treasured object.

"You hold no need for seduction for I am never absent desire for you to be within my arms," Agron's words were roughened for his lust, tone Nasir was familiar with. The Syrian turned within embracing arms enough to press chaste kiss to corner of Agron's mouth, likely to have missed from their position. "How long were you aware of my gaze upon you?"

"Approach was not concealed, nor was fire within eyes upon me of ease to dismiss." There were times in which Agron did forget how acute Nasir's awareness was of his surrounds especially in knowing when attention was upon him. Such had already proven to be of benefit to the man as growing warrior. "Has plan been made?"

Agron released breath of frustration. "Plan has not altered since you parted company. We make attempt to maintain ruse of standing as Romans and slaves. If any venture into camp in suspicion, we are to kill them."

"And I am to stand as first warning if it is discovered we stand enemy upon threshold," Nasir gave clarification of his purpose and Agron nodded as he dropped cloth to ground and took Nasir's hand in his own. "If we are discovered, I will bear witness to intent of harm upon us." The Syrian's tone had taken on some measure of conviction common to hear from him when he was making declaration of task he would know success in regardless of difficulty.

"I will remain with you. I will no longer accept being from your side in battle when there stands no fucking reason to be parted."

Nasir released soft sound of amusement as he leaned his head to rest upon Agron's shoulder. "You are rebel leader and I hold responsibility to many within our numbers. We have never been parted absent reason, even more so when in battle."

"There is no other I would rather have at my side than you. I would see you remain safe from harm and have your eyes upon my back to ensure it is never struck. It is when we are parted that harm comes to us and I would never again see you near death." Regardless of them having never truly stood at one another's side in battle, Agron held belief that it was how they should forever be. Through attack of night, the German had been distracted by thoughts of the Syrian's safety and concern that those who had accompanied his heart in task would not bear skill enough to guard against Nasir's weaknesses. How could Agron not think so when Nasir was besting gladiators in combat as few not from the ludus could? Only Agron could protect Nasir as the younger man required and, as the two stood as equal, protection would be returned.

"Then we will forever be found at one another's side when claiming Roman lives, just as we stand together in all else." Amusement had yet to pass from Nasir's voice, yet words broken were genuine and Agron's arms wrapped tightly about the smaller man's body in firm embrace.

After many moments of remaining in such position absent words between them, Agron relaxed grasp and moved to stand with Nasir following motion with smooth grace. It was only when the Syrian was standing that Agron took notice of clothing covering his heart. It was similar to what he had worn on the night they had first met, his chest left bare and secured about his hips by thick cord of leather was a lightly colored loincloth which fell down loosely to just below his knees. He reached around to gather layer of cloth secured above leather cord and pulled it over his left shoulder so as to allow it to fall down his chest and then tucked excess to be held in place by leather cord, purpose of position to conceal warrior's brand. To have considered such reminded Agron of Nasir's keen mind, for regardless of Agron's awareness of the brand upon his own arm and how it would forever expose him as rebel once owned by Batiatus it did not occur to the German that Nasir's scar would bring revelation with similar ease. Slaves did not bear brands shaped as blade of gladius around stab wound obviously caused by sword, especially absent other similar markings over body.

Nasir turned gaze over shoulder and smiled as Agron's eyes remained upon his form. "Eyes yet linger, Agron," he broke words with growing humor.

Agron's eyes did not rise at once, taken with motion of loincloth and how it seemed to conceal details of Nasir's ass while drawing attention upon it. How was he to remove fucking gaze when all thoughts seemed to be taken with once again sharing intimacy with the one he held to heart? There was once more peace between them and yet their position within short distance from enemy meant they could not satisfy growing lust between them.

Though, as was the norm, Agron appeared alone in his frustration as Nasir was not one to make display of his desires especially if it concerned ones of carnal nature.

He had denied fucking desire long enough, Agron decided as he again stepped toward Nasir and pressed his body against the Syrian's back. At once he leaned down and took skin of right side of Nasir's neck between teeth and lips and satisfied desire to at least taste his heart in some measure. Knowing how sensitive the younger man's neck was to intimate touch, Agron expected the pleased gasp as Nasir's right hand lifted to run through Agron's hair, holding him in place. Agron's left hand pressed beneath the cloth Nasir had only just settled into place and caressed over raised skin of scar as his right hand covered the Syrian's firm stomach and pressed the smaller body tight against his own. Nasir hissed in pleasure as Agron made assault upon many sensitive parts of him at once and his left hand moved to grasp at Agron's hand, possibly as warning to not press much further considering where they stood so exposed.

Releasing skin from between teeth, though running his tongue and lips over moistened and reddening skin many more times, Agron pulled his face away enough to look upon mark he had brought forth upon the Syrian's dark skin. Nasir's hand slipped from his head and ran over skin as he released heavy sigh. "I do not hold favor for such marks upon me." Agron knew this of Nasir and it was certainly rare for him to feel such desire to inflict mark as he just had. He would not make apology though – and Nasir did not seek one – and only pressed kiss to Nasir's fingers before again moving away. Nasir made hasty adjustment to clothing dislodged by Agron's touch as the German took many steps away to further ensure he would not act at once to undo all effort Nasir was putting forth in disguise. "Once we are not upon shores of enemy we will see frustrations satisfied. Until then, please make effort to contain self in manner that does not bring gaze from others upon parts of body I would have them ignore." His meaning was as much for neck and long absent collar as for concealed scar.

"Fucking Syrian should consider frustration before dressing in manner which draws forth lust from any who lay fucking eyes upon you," Agron replied, his voice as though a growl and Nasir's dark eyes turned to him bearing irritation. "Do not cast such fucking look. I have not lain with you in many weeks and while it is not your body I hold to heart, it is a thing of which I hold great fucking desire for."

Nasir turned from him then and moved away, walking in direction of tents which had been raised for slaves of Roman camp and Agron followed after brief hesitation, only doing so as he realized the Syrian moved so in attempt to conceal embarrassment at such admission. It was always matter of pride when Agron could cause darkened skin to flush as it was such honest reaction and it made display of gentle nature of the Syrian.

The two men moved through edge of camp, stopping often to relay message in hushed tones to others moving about in same manner, for many hours. Nasir would call attention to eyes of other camp being cast upon them yet there appeared to be no indication of discovery being made. Agron and Nasir took advantage of opportunity presented to share company as they had not been able since days prior to Glaber's assault upon temple. The two were able to walk together, making brief contact with one another as desired and converse about days past absent urgency of needing to return to other obligation. Words broken were restrained some though as there were things each man would not speak of: Agron had yet to find strength to speak Duro's name aloud even if he was speaking of a tale of shared experience with his brother and Nasir would not break words of his time as slave which would bring forth Agron's anger or memories he held not the strength to quell now. Regardless of limitations, they held opportunity of learning more of how the one they held to heart came to be who they were upon that day.

They had been silent for a few moments when Nasir's eyes turned toward hill separating rebels from Roman army and expression of concentration came upon his features. As his jaw and shoulders tightened in manner Agron recognized as enduring pain accompanied expression, the German remained silent so as to not distract his heart from unspoken words he was sure to be bearing witness to now. Silence endured for many moments and discomfort reflected upon Nasir's face increased as thoughts witnessed increased – Agron had broken words with Nasir often upon subject of his ability and had learned how to watch Nasir's body to give indication to what he experienced. Agron reached out to lay gentle touch on Nasir's cheek in attempt to offer the ailed man some measure of comfort as he struggled to make sense of words within mind not his own. Many moments passed before dark eyes opened and turned to greet Agron's gaze. Nasir's expression gave revelation to naught he had learned and the German prepared to question his heart when Nasir removed necessity and broke words.

"Opportunity presents beyond expectation. We must find Spartacus at once," the Syrian gave explanation as he took hold of Agron's hand and gripped it tightly before turning and walking further within tents of camp. Agron held desire to know what his heart had gained knowledge of, yet restrained curiosity for sake of haste. He moved ahead of the smaller man and led them through narrow paths toward center of encampment where Spartacus had remained to ensure all was organized before moving toward side of camp bearing greatest risk of threat.

The two men laid gaze upon the Thracian with ease regardless of disguise of Roman armor donned, the man moving about camp giving instruction with aid of Gannicus and Lugo. Crixus was certain to be elsewhere in camp guiding others toward purpose. Agron knew he would have been given similar task had he not taken place at Nasir's side as had been done. He would not make claim of his choice being one bearing reflection of position within rebellion, yet it was not one he would alter if opportunity were to be presented. All moments spent at side of his heart would be spent absent regret.

"Spartacus," Agron called to his brother and the rebel leader turned to him and his gaze grew concerned as his eyes fell upon Nasir following upon the German's heels. They closed remaining distance between them and stepped close enough for others moving about them to not bear witness to words broken.

"You have news, Nasir?" the Thracian questioned. As he had set Nasir to task of giving warning if discovery was made, there appeared no other cause for the Syrian to seek him out.

"Scrofa makes approach," the Syrian broke words of revelation to which both rebel leaders were struck mute for a short while. "Roman camp echoes with unrestrained thoughts of making preparation to march against rebel army."

"Why have they not made approach to this camp to deliver orders to take similar action?" Spartacus questioned, concern for his warriors not passing with ease.

"I hold naught the answer. Perhaps there is greater concern for camp bearing those of position within army to make preparations before those separated and near slaver camp to be readied later in day. Scrofa is yet great distance removed from here, expected to arrive near fall of night. He travels with but guards from his villa and will not hold advantage until within numbers of army."

Spartacus nodded acceptance of information revealed and Agron recognized expression of the Thracian to be one of deepest concentration in which plans of greatest care and foolishness were given life. It was such expression which preceded revelation of climbing down from peak of Vesuvius on ropes of plaited vines. Agron could not deny thought of how he had witnessed expression mere hours passed before assault was made upon Roman camp. What grand feats would he prove them capable of now?

"Would it not be accepted gesture for men to be sent from camp to meet with any making approach, especially if man to be greeted was to stand as one given command?" Spartacus' words were distant as though he was only allowing thoughts to be given voice all could hear. Agron turned toward Nasir though dark eyes did not return gaze, remaining fixed upon the Thracian.

Agron felt as though the fool for holding thought that Nasir would not hold keenest interest in decision made in regards to Scrofa: while the German yet burned with fury at what the Quaestor had done to his heart, Nasir was sure to hold great desire for vengeance as one to have survived being treated so. The Syrian was not usually one prone to such emotions, yet his attempt to send Qilin to the afterlife gave proof never before witnessed that he could desire blood just as any of the sands for wrongs committed against him. Gaze returned to Spartacus as rebel leader appeared to reach decision, turning to Lugo to give instruction.

"Lugo, deliver news to Crixus we move against Scrofa at once and he is to don full Roman armor. I would have the same of Gannicus and Agron to stand at our side." Lugo nodded understanding and parted company to do as commanded. Gannicus remained as it was apparent plan was not finished. "We will not risk Scrofa making retreat to regain footing against us. We will place those most skilled among remaining numbers in position to give aid once attack is begun. Gannicus, I would have you gather no more than a dozen to prepare for battle. We do not know exact numbers we are to face and I would have us hold advantage absent standing too great to reveal assault." The Thracian returned gaze to Nasir and stepped closer to the smaller man to grasp his shoulder. "Gratitude Nasir, you stand beyond measure of value."

Nasir appeared to glean meaning of Spartacus' words Agron did not for the young man at once appeared angry. "You will not command me to remain here while you seek out Scrofa."

Agron looked between the two men and reached out for Nasir's arm to offer balm to fury as Nasir had done for him in times past. "Spartacus would not ask you to remain from such fight," he broke words to further aid in calming the Syrian. The German knew of the fire Nasir held within as it was such which first gained Agron's attention upon the former body slave, yet he was unaccustomed to quelling it with such frequency. First it was against Qilin, then it had come out against Agron himself, and now it rose again in face of Spartacus.

"Words break within mind he made attempt to conceal until he could break words with me absent others present," Nasir gave explanation, which Agron held confusion for. Nasir did stand among those most skilled so why would Spartacus intend to have him absent from coming fight? Agron turned toward Spartacus as his brother sighed heavily at Nasir's revelation.

"It was not decision yet made, which stands as reason for my attempt to restrain thought from your ever keen ears. It was but consideration toward strength not yet fully regained and standing against soldiers well trained in protecting their Quaestor."

"Enemy before us stands as one responsible for fucking weakness. Such will fade when I face him once more, not in chains as he would have me but with blade in hand as I was meant for as warrior of Spartacus' rebellion." Agron's hand fell from contact with his heart though his eyes did not waver from sight of fire within dark eyes. Never before had Nasir stood so certain in his words of position within rebellion and Spartacus was sure to realize such with ease as Agron had, for Nasir and Spartacus were similar in that they did not break words absent care and thought. Neither man broke words of boast absent honesty nor did they cower behind humility, instead offering words of truth and honor when necessary for point to be made. At most times this would allow the two men to speak upon equal footing, yet that was not the manner now for Nasir held advantage over Spartacus of knowing words unspoken which had obviously – and not absent understanding from Agron – taken offense toward and he would not allow such to stand uncontested.

"I will not stand in opposition of your desire, Nasir. I have not in the time we have known one another and I will not do so now. Thought came forth merely in concern of your safety and was dismissed with ease of knowing of the man you stand. However, as you are too dark of skin to bear disguise of Roman you will remain with those to attack once trap is set."

Nasir's expression conveyed frustration at Spartacus making such point and words next broken gave explanation for such reaction. "It was reason I was to take on disguise of slave within camp. I held no expectation for intent behind disguise to alter my skin to stand as Roman." Spartacus gave response of an amused smile before his hand fell from Nasir's shoulder and he stepped away to move to purpose of preparing self for assault to be made. Agron would have need to do the same for he did not bear full Roman armor as would be needed for deception.

"I do encourage you to find clothing more suited to fighting. While I bear no doubt you stand capable of fighting dressed so, I would prefer you to find some armor." Words were amused and Agron knew the Thracian only broke them so as to deter some of Nasir's anger by giving him task to focus upon. Nasir crossed his arms over his compact chest and Agron knew the motion to be one of restraint from the Syrian, a physical demeanor which allowed him to separate emotions from all around him so as to regain control he held value in.

Making decision to aid Nasir in task, Agron used grip yet upon arm to guide Nasir toward clutch of tents supplies had been gathered within so the two men could prepare for coming fight. It would not be grand battle as it had been against Glaber, yet it was likely to be difficult in that guards would have been selected for skill standing great enough to offer protection to the Quaestor. Scrofa was no fool and he would not travel with weak guard.

When the two men made approach to clutch of tents bearing supplies and stepped within to seek out garb appropriate for disguise of Agron and suited for Nasir's size in which to fight, Nasir broke words with the German he had not held expectation of hearing. "Guards remaining near Scrofa will bear skill with weapon, but they will not stand as great threat against those trained of the sands. Lugo, Saxa, and I were only taken for my distraction and had it been fight as this will be we would not have been captured. Proof of such stands in that I killed one while yet chained to wall and pressed to floor and two others with but stolen weapons. They hold no expectation of being set upon here and will fall with ease." Agron was more accustomed to hearing such observation from Spartacus or Crixus and not the one he held to heart. While Nasir held talent enough to make such evaluation of skill he did not make habit of doing so as he claimed to not hold enough experience in determining worth as warrior. That he spoke with such certainty only served as reminder that his mind was not as it normally was with opportunity presented to claim vengeance for pain inflicted upon him.

"Then we shall claim victory over Scrofa and those who made attempt to wrest you from my arms."

Nasir was positioned within sight of where Spartacus, Crixus, Gannicus, and Agron awaited approach of Scrofa. They had travelled for but a few hours to path where the Quaestor was certain to pass to make approach to Roman encampment for mountains stood near one another to create much narrower path than in any other place. Distance between was yet wide enough for battalion to traverse, yet ground was uneven and offered rebels cover aplenty so retreat could be prevented once trap was sprung. At his side was Lugo for the German had refused to take shelter anywhere but at the smaller man's side until fight began and Nasir would take place beside Agron.

They had been waiting for countless moments and even the four standing within sight of any approaching were showing to be less rigid in posture, though this was not indicative of readiness for they would stand ready for battle absent pause. Nasir had leaned back against nearby rock and had closed his eyes, allowing his mind opportunity to wander absent focus in manner he knew would allow unspoken words to pierce mind with ease. He would not sacrifice awareness in his relaxation and his many shifts taking guard over those he held care for now served to his benefit. When position had first been taken, Lugo had broken words with him in language of Germania but even the burly man had grown quiet soon as though having need to prepare for coming fight against ones who had caused him harm as well.

Nasir had not held expectation to be given opportunity to face Scrofa on field of battle. His belief had been that once he regained freedom, the next time rebels faced the Quaestor would be upon grand battle as it had been with Glaber with hundreds of allies and foes between them which would prevent him from seeing the man fall to the afterlife. Yet here they stood, only a dozen rebels to stand against similar number of Roman guards. There even stood great chance that those he would face would be faces he knew from his days being held and pressed for information against Spartacus as he had only killed three in escape from villa and had seen no less than twenty guards over his days chained. While one most deserving of his wrath for undesired hands placed upon him was already gone from this world, others had taken role in his torture and he would see them gone for treating him as less than free man, as less than even slave.

The Syrian took in deep breath in attempt to soothe rising fury. He was unaccustomed to his temper rising with such meager provocation as possibility of claiming balance for wrongs committed against him and those he held care for. Neither Saxa nor Lugo appeared to suffer such emotion for their shared experience so why did he seem incapable of bearing harm inflicted upon him. Harm hadn't even been so great when held in comparison to what he had endured over lifetime of slavery and surviving stab and burn in flight from mines. He could not remember holding rage in any moment against Roman who had nearly taken his life in running gladius through his body, yet when thought came forth of Scrofa questioning him of where Spartacus made camp and then giving command to bring lash against back once more for the Syrian's silence brought forth fire within Nasir that he could not contain. That his men answered command and then continued to land punch upon the Syrian when Scrofa grew tired of questioning absent progress caused fire to burn even greater.

Nasir had held belief that emotions had been caused by Qilin and the man's family standing as cause for Nasir to be taken from home and family and thrust into hands of Rome, however as the slaver still drew breath that could not hold truth.

Nasir did not hesitate in striking down those of whom he held belief deserved death, as proven by his attempt to kill Spartacus upon first night of freedom, then of striking down Seppius' man the following night when he saw rebel cause to be just path. Nasir may not have been raised to think and act as warrior, yet he had adapted to life with ease as though blade gripped in hand had always been his way.

Qilin's path had been one of shackle just as Nasir's had been, yet while the Syrian's had been bonds of metal and Dominus, Qilin's had been of blood and one could not choose their lineage. Qilin fought for freedom as much as all rebels did and it was only now removed from the man's side and in face of Roman might once more that Nasir stood capable of knowing such with certainty. His heart had understood Qilin's pain while his mind could not know anything beyond truth of what had been done to him and at last his keen mind perceived what his heart knew.

Agron broke words often on how Nasir was one who felt emotion with greater depth than the German and while there may be some truth in that – as Agron had grown in manner which lauded strength – the Syrian could not see such as beneficial as he held not the experience in understanding all that he felt. He had maintained distance between his thoughts and emotions for much of his life as it allowed him to serve Roman master as needed and now that he stood absent such barrier and even sought to experience all he had been denied he found that he held need of learning what it meant to make choice based upon the heart.

He yet questioned if it was wise to follow such fickle thing as his heart was revealed to be when his mind had proven worthy to be relied upon.

Dark eyes opened at such thought and turned to where Agron stood beside Spartacus, the two conversing in familiar camaraderie.

It was his heart which had chosen to stand at Agron's side when the German had first pressed lips upon him. It had been his heart which guided him in every word broken, every touch granted, every touch sought, and it was his heart which beat with what he knew to be love for Agron regardless of never having experienced such before. By his own words Agron held his heart just as he held Agron's and while the German may not know it to be so, his heart was strong and beat with as deep of emotions as Nasir's did. It was witnessed within every touch and gaze set upon the Syrian.

Could Nasir truly make claim to ignorance of his own heart when Agron guided it with such strong hand?

"Lugo stand with Spartacus. Send Agron to Little Man," Lugo broke words suddenly, gruff tone causing Nasir to startle as he had not held expectation for the German to notice his attention focus upon Agron.

Taking in a deep calming breath, Nasir turned to Lugo with expression of irritation obvious upon face. "Do not call me that," he gave simple command. Lugo remained among very few who would not heed warning of Nasir when told not to refer to him as such though the Syrian held suspicion he would never be rid of such endearment while Lugo stood near. Lugo gave response of wide grin as was normal between them before turning toward Agron once more.

"Lugo send Agron," the man instead repeated.

Familiar with the German's tenacity, Nasir sighed once more and turned full attention to Lugo. "Why send Agron to me? He is of greatest benefit with Spartacus." Argument of such fact would never be given by Nasir for Agron stood as one of those bearing greatest skill within rebel numbers.

"Not where Little Man wants him."

"It matters not where I desire him to stand. He will go where he will be of benefit to rebel cause."

Lugo gave a heavy sigh which sounded as though beastly growl, bringing forth small smile from Nasir. "Not where Agron wants."

Nasir could neither ignore nor dismiss such statement from one who spent much time in Agron's company as well as Nasir's – beyond rebel leaders only Donar shared company with Agron with greater regularity than this man. "Agron has never broken words against position at Spartacus' side in battle."

"Before Lucania Agron ask Lugo protect you." This was not unexpected of his heart to have done for he had not been pleased with Nasir to make for the mines absent his company. Nasir held expectation for same request to have been voiced to Saxa as well. However, that Agron broke words of concern did not mean he did not wish to be from position held. Lugo must have realized Nasir thought so for he continued. "Say he ignore Spartacus if you hurt." The man's eyes moved down to where branded skin lay concealed beneath layers of clothing and armor the Syrian had found which fit his compact form well enough to engage in combat. "If Little Man again hurt, he all that matter. Little man well, he all that matter. Little man leave, Agron follow."

That Lugo had not broken words in language of his land which both held understanding of, instead struggling to convey message in his yet limited ability to speak common tongue so told Nasir of how deeply the man believed his words to hold truth. Message given though was not one Nasir held expectation of hearing. He knew how deeply Agron cared for him, how he often chose path in answer to deep bond held between them, yet Nasir could not lay claim to thoughts of life once rebellion had reached its end. For rebellion only held two paths: victory over Rome or defeat beneath Rome's might. If they stood victorious, Nasir would know a life as he could not behold being one absent threat of Roman law weighing upon him. If defeat was found, Nasir would fall to the afterlife along with all those he held care for. Neither path allowed him thought of life with Agron unlike what he had known until now.

Yet Lugo broke words of conviction that Agron would abandon life of blood and vengeance if Nasir made choice which brought him from rebellion path.

Could Nasir ask such a thing of the one he held to heart when all that he knew of Agron was with blade raised against Roman enemy? Could Agron hold joy in life absent opportunity to spill blood in memory of Duro?

Nasir knew answer to such question before either was fully formed within mind. He could not ask Agron to turn from life he found happiness within. If Nasir was presented choice to part from rebellion and he set to such path, he would not have Agron with him as the man would lose much of who he was and Nasir would not commit such atrocity.

"Agron chose his place in this world countless moons past when Spartacus first voiced whisper of liberation. It was decided long before he knew I even drew breath. I yet struggle to discover mine," Nasir spoke in quiet voice, his mind greatly distracted by subject. He would usually not reveal such thoughts to any but Agron and this was subject he would never break words with his heart upon. However, Lugo had offered him truth he had not known and so deserved deep truth in return. "I would see him in his place regardless of where mine stands."

The burly German chuckled quietly and Nasir's eyes narrowed toward the man in suspicion of response given. "Nasir alone in not knowing place. Lugo see place when first meet."

Nasir recalled the moments of their first meeting and turned away in attempt to conceal modest reaction to Lugo's words, for first action taken when they had met had been Agron kissing him absent hesitation and standing at his side for all to know who he held to heart.

Was it truly so simple to know one's place in the world?

Enemy approaches, Nasir. Give warning if deception is discovered before they stand near enough for us to strike down.

Nasir's body tensed in surprise at Spartacus' voice calling through his mind. Message was faint for distance needed to travel yet was heard with clarity and Nasir responded at once by drawing his weapon from his side. Lugo followed motion and Nasir knew that others concealed so would be doing so as well as they all remained within sight of at least one other in curved line surrounding those standing disguised as enemy. If any saw Roman guards move to retreat or attack, they would begin assault yet Nasir stood alone in ability to know at once if threat was presented prior to Spartacus moving against Scrofa.

Approach of Scrofa and his guards was slow, near ten men mounted upon horse while as few as twenty more moved in formation before and behind those upon horse, bringing forth anxiety within Nasir. Numbers were greater than what had been expected, though they did not stand great enough for concern of failure to rise. The nearer Romans came and more features became clear to Nasir's gaze, the greater the fire within him grew and he knew he would not leave this place absent staining his blade with Roman blood. Victory would not be had if he could not strike one of these men from life. They moved toward Spartacus, certain that ally stood before them, ceasing progress only as they stood near enough for proper introduction to be given. The Syrian paid no mind for words broken as they would only serve as distraction from attention upon safety of his heart and brothers. His gaze remained fixed upon the Quaestor and his mind remained open to all unspoken words passing through minds of Roman guards.

After but few moments of shared words between Spartacus and Scrofa, the Roman urged his mount forward and they moved past disguised gladiators, move which rebels had been awaiting for lowering of guard it would present. Nasir was moving from concealment even as Spartacus drew his own blade and struck down guard nearest him with Gannicus, Agron, and Crixus following motion. Nasir and all concealed rebels charged forward into small clutch of enemies and made attempt to kill all before weapons could be drawn in defense. Nasir entered fight with strong swing of his gladius to knock away opponent's arm which had lifted in defense before thrusting forward to stab through exposed face, taking care to control his weight so weapon could be pulled free with ease and not be forced from his hand. He had moved on to next opponent before body of one already struck down fell fully to ground.

Such was progress of battle: Nasir cutting through one opponent after another, lending aid to allies where able and knowing that Lugo remained near so as to ensure he was not struck down from weakness of guard he yet trained to remove. He had not gained opportunity to find where Agron fought, separated from one another as they were by those upon horse, yet numbers of enemies fell quickly and soon all Romans present would fall to rebel blade.

It was following such thought that Nasir was suddenly knocked to ground by strike upon his back, though angle of strike told him that it was one yet upon horse who had delivered attack upon him. He could not roll with fall as he had been trained for angle of his body and instead focused upon falling so he did not land on his own blade. He twisted his body so his right shoulder struck the ground to take brunt of impact. Such force weakened grip upon gladius and it fell from his grip to slide upon ground to lay many paces away from him. He pushed himself over so that he did not remain vulnerable to attack and looked up to face he knew to stand as cause of rising blaze within him: the Quaestor Cnaeus Tremellius Scrofa. The man yet sat upon horse, his eyes looking down upon Nasir with disdain evident.

Nasir prepared to stand from position upon ground when movement from just beyond gaze gained the Syrian's focus. He turned to his side just as Roman guard came near enough to raise spear so as to run the unarmed Syrian through with sharpened tip. Nasir gave brief enough pause in movement for spear to be making approach toward him before rolling toward attacker, hearing spear strike ground behind him just before he knocked the guard from balance and the man fell over Nasir. The Syrian did not cease rolling motion though until he was cleared of weight upon him, then he turned and struck with fist against the Roman's face. Taking advantage of the man's distraction brought by pain, Nasir pulled spear from the man's grip and impaled the guard's chest in single thrust. Adjusting grip upon long wooden shaft to mirror manner in which Pollux and Lydon handled such weapon – he had sparred with both often enough to recognize technique of their favored weapon – he pulled the spear free and extended it before him as his attention was returned to Scrofa.

"Words broken by Qilin of your value appear to have been underestimated; mistake I will not repeat," the Roman Quaestor spoke loud enough to be heard over sound of battle surrounding them and Nasir wondered how they had been afforded such opportunity to even break words so in midst of death. His attention remained parted between focus upon Scrofa and ensuring none caught him unaware.

While captured by and in presence of this man, Nasir had not broken words once, had allowed no information to be pulled from him whether in common tongue or one not known to the Roman. There no longer stood reason for such restraint, "Opportunity for mistake will not present again for you will fall here. You will know defeat just as Glaber and Varinius did when they opposed us."

"Those men were fools."

Nasir stepped closer to the horse, preparing himself for strike which would bring opponent from elevated position. "You stand no better."

Altering grip once more on the spear, he slid his hands down near blunt end and swung the tip at legs of the horse, causing the animal to startle and buck to avoid being struck. Sudden motion was not expected by Scrofa and the man was thrown to ground as the horse moved away with haste. Nasir recovered balance in his stance and swung the spear once more in downward arc to strike the Questor. The Roman recovered sense absent hesitation and drew his gladius from sheath and used it to parry swing. Unaccustomed to weight and length of spear as he had never before wielded one, Nasir was forced to follow motion or have footing lost once more. He stepped forward to counter momentum and made attempt to alter grip to position he could control with greater ease as Scrofa stood and launched assault in single motion. He swung blade toward Nasir's head and the Syrian lifted long shaft to block attack, though Scrofa did not pause in pulling back blade for another swing and Nasir was forced to remain defensive in his motion. If he held gladius, he would not know such difficulty, yet this was weapon unfamiliar to him to bear and he was at disadvantage. He was certain that he would have already been cut down if not for his speed and observation of those who wielded spear with deadly precision.

Observation alone however would not be sufficient for him to know victory over Scrofa now for the Roman held comparable skill with gladius.

Just as Nasir truly held fear he would not hold strength enough to endure many more strikes against him absent laying assault of his own, unspoken words pierced his mind and he knew he no longer remained from focus of other Romans. Another guard was coming upon his back and he reacted upon instinct, dropping to knee just as another blade swung over his head, causing Scrofa to retreat enough so as to not be struck. Nasir held spear to the side and rolled away from the two as they turned toward him once more in readiness of attacking him once more. He gathered his weight upon his legs folded beneath him and prepared to charge when familiar voice called out to him just as Spartacus stepped past him to hold position between the two Romans and the Syrian. Nasir stood and once more held spear before him at the Thracian's side.

I will fight Scrofa. Nasir held desire to voice objection to Spartacus' unspoken command, yet restrained words as he knew it to be correct path. His arms burned with strain of fight and use of spear and he knew absent weapon he was truly familiar with he would not hold victory over Scrofa. Spartacus must be the one to face the man and strike him down.

The pair of Romans charged toward them, the guard moving forward first in attempt to strike at Spartacus. The Thracian parried swing with one of his own weapons, directing the man toward Nasir and the Syrian followed lead and flipped spear around to strike blunt end of shaft against the man's back to knock him to ground as Spartacus moved to attack Scrofa. His hands moved with haste to turn spear around, flipping it around his hand so tip pointed toward guard – attempt of greater ease as he was swiftly adapting to balance of long weapon – before he thrust it forward and pierced his opponent through the back, sending him to the afterlife.

Now that immediate threat had passed and holding trust that Spartacus would not falter in fight with Scrofa so as to leave Nasir exposed, he looked about them to take in details of battle being fought. Most Romans had been struck down with only sparse few remaining but engaged against rebels and would soon fall. Those not crossing blades with enemy were moving toward position of Spartacus and Nasir, Agron among them. Once gaze fell upon his heart, Nasir examined the German with care to determine if any injuries had been gained in fight. He released breath of relief when confirmed that no blood upon Agron appeared to be his own.

Green eyes settled upon Nasir and once he made notice that Nasir's attention was upon him, Agron grinned widely though his eyes gave revelation of how he was yet enflamed by battle fought and blood spilled. Pace hastened and the Syrian was soon held against the large man's chest, grip tighter than would normally be used for simple embrace, however Nasir could not find cause to voice request of the German to relax grasp. He instead dropped spear from grasp and encircled his arms about Agron's waist to return affection with similar vigor. After feeling lips press against temple, Agron pulled away and touched their foreheads together in familiar position of comfort. Such contact and continued proximity allowed Nasir opportunity to feel Agron taking in deep breaths which resulted in his body relaxing somewhat and the Syrian locked his gaze with green eyes to see calm return once more to his heart.

Such position also brought forth memory of night of Glaber's fall once the two were reunited after threat had passed and contact felt as though the German's celebration of standing together once more.

Pulling away from embrace and touch, the Syrian returned attention to where Spartacus stood over Scrofa, the man's throat deeply slit and blood flowing forth from wound as final breaths were drawn in. Spartacus turned away from the man and looked about in similar manner to what Nasir had done moments past. Crixus and Gannicus approached the Thracian and Agron pressed hand against Nasir's lower back to urge the Syrian to move forward as well. He complied and moved to stand before Scrofa, looking down to the Roman who he had come to hold as responsible for pain so recently inflicted upon him.

Spartacus reached out and placed hand upon Nasir's shoulder to gain his attention. Dark eyes settled upon Spartacus and the man looked down to him with fond expression common to be shown the Syrian. "Apologies for denying you satisfaction of claiming Scrofa's life," Spartacus spoke in hushed tone, allowing moment of privacy between the two men.

"Such words are not needed. Your reasons for choice are understood and agreed upon. I would have fallen had I continued to engage Scrofa. All that matters is that he is defeated and will not move against rebellion."

Hand upon shoulder gripped tighter before pulling away and Spartacus turned to relay instructions to other rebels to gather weapons and armor from enemy bodies and others were told to gather any horses remaining to be brought with them. Gannicus was also given instruction to return to where remaining rebel forces had been told to travel toward after gathering all supplies from Roman camp they could carry before leaving so as to avoid discovery by enemy so near when those most skilled were removed. They would have taken path in which they had made original approach from before turning north to join those led by Donar with destination of new land for rebel camp. Rejoining of forces would be delayed for path they would be forced to take around mountains, but they should remain safe until they once again stood at full numbers against any assault.

As others set to purpose, Nasir once more turned to look upon still body of Scrofa, intent on ensuring there were no movements so as to indicate life. Even as none could be seen, the Syrian could not remove gaze from the man who had become focus of much of Nasir's thoughts since he had been delivered to the Quaestor's hands. This was the man who had brought him to state so far beyond what was normal for him and now he lay before Nasir with throat slit and blood covering body.

Nasir remained silent and still as he looked upon the Quaestor, his mind seemingly unable to find balance. He heard approach of another and turned enough to see Agron step forward to stand at his side though the German remained silent as well and Nasir could not say with certainty if Agron's state was for patience toward Nasir or lack of knowledge of what words to break.

After many more moments of silence, Agron at last broke words, "Tell me of your thoughts, Nasir," he made request, giving revelation to cause standing as uncertainty.

Nasir did not give response for many more moments, his mind considering words with care so as to break words of honesty. Agron only held desire to support him as he required and he would allow the man satisfaction, regardless of his uncertainty in what it was which was needed. "There stood need to strike Scrofa from this world. He presented threat to rebellion and we could not allow him to gain bearings against us." Agron gave no answer, instead reaching out for Nasir and resting his hand upon back of Nasir's neck. Fingers ran through strands of hair which had been fixed in position against skin by sweat and blood though such contact allowed Nasir to know greater relaxation and he breathed heavy sigh as tension left his body with haste in knowing one he held to heart stood at his side. Agron had found calm so soon after spilling blood through Nasir's presence and Nasir would have the same. Thoughts turned toward brief exchange of words held between he and Scrofa and he put words to question he had never before asked, "Did Batiatus know fault in what he had done before he fell to the afterlife?"

Agron released short breath of derision as though very thought was foolish, "The mad fuck stood alone surrounded by gladiators and he spoke as though he yet held command over us. Belief was never held of his actions standing as cause to Spartacus' choice to rise against him. He knew such pride in all he had accomplished I hold doubt he could have ever known wrong in actions."

"Scrofa was quite dissimilar to Batiatus. He voiced recognition of fault in treatment of rebel prisoner who had been revealed to be of great benefit to his cause of advance within Rome." Agron's grip tightened somewhat upon his neck and the Syrian at last turned gaze to meet green eyes. "Qilin told him to focus efforts of gaining information upon me alone. He ignored suggestion and for many days only sought to use me to make sense of language not known to him. When I did not perform as expected, he allowed guards to make attempt to break my silence." This was more than Nasir had previously given revelation to concerning his days being pressed for information and Agron's gaze grew fierce once more. "I was as Tiberius, remaining silent and absent from all that was done to me so as to keep from betrayal. Tiberius stands as reason Scrofa did not learn of what I know of rebellion."

Agron despised Tiberius – of this Nasir was certain – for it was that part of the Syrian which remained parted from his heart. It was Tiberius who had made attempt upon Spartacus, who had scorned memory of beloved brother so recently lost, who had made attempt to smother fire of Nasir for sake of survival. Flame which stood as core of who Nasir was as man and it was such fire which had gained Agron's attention and affection so Tiberius was one who made attempt to rob Agron of his heart afore knowing it beat within the Syrian slave.

However, this stood as lesson Scrofa taught the Syrian: Tiberius would forever be within Nasir, awaiting opportunity to reclaim mind and survive as he had been given name to do. While friends such as Spartacus, Naevia, Lugo, Donar, Crixus, and Gannicus gave the Syrian aid in feeling need to lay trust in bonds of brotherhood and friendship, they would not be enough. Agron alone allowed Nasir to believe Tiberius was not necessary and it was only when removed from his company that the Syrian truly knew struggle in keeping Tiberius from emerging.

Such thought was one which brought fear to rise within Nasir, for his identity lay within presence of another. He did not desire to stand as Tiberius once more yet was uncertain that he could deny instinct bearing such strength as survival.

Agron took Nasir's cheeks in both hands and urged dark eyes to focus upon him once more as he had become distant from his thoughts. Agron's expression was filled with naught but deep affection – though there was some concern as well – and Nasir's heart beat with same emotion. "Nasir, I can find no fault in use of Tiberius as it allowed you return to my arms. Shield of Roman name is weapon for you to use, just as you use gladius."

Agron leaned forward and once more pressed his lips to Nasir's, deepening it at once to take in taste of his heart through exploration with tongue. The Syrian's hands came up and took hold of Roman armor Agron had donned for sake of deception and held the taller man as near him as he was able without breaking contact of their kiss. After many moments of passion, Agron moved away – pulling Nasir's lip between his teeth as he parted – yet remained near enough that Agron's breaths were exhaled upon the Syrian's skin. Hands upon Nasir's cheeks were firm though touch communicated to the Syrian of how Agron was making attempt to deny passion for sake of situation and tasks in need of completion.

Nasir allowed amusement to rise at thought of how Agron would soon reach limitation on restraining passion for Nasir as he had been forced to for so many days now. He had already failed in maintaining control when faced with attraction to Nasir earlier that day. Nasir discovered realization of desire for opportunity for them to be released from obligations long enough to know satisfaction.