Disclaimer: I don't own Fairy Tail and I never will. Ownership goes to Hiro Mashima-san and the Co. Fighting is well imagined in the manga, but when just when you expect things to get good... ''-'' What the actual fuck? You want a satisfying battle, with real blood, death and realistic (with a bit of my own) stuff? You come to me. Seriously. I don't mean to be presumptuous here. My invitation stands, and of course that's why we have FanFiction. Sorry for the blabber, let us begin the next chapter of this thing I dare call a story. Historical references that I use in my story are borrowed and do not necessarily correspond with facts we know today.
Indomitable Heart
Chapter 4: Wits Of Lanista, Avidity Of A Champion
Justus Aburius Antius was impatient and anxious. Why so? The day was beautiful and sunny like any other. He was in his luxurious Villa he inherited from his father, after the man retired from a business of Lanista and moved to Tibrus for promotion to the Senate. For Septimus Aburius Antius has made a good career as a Lanista and with his good connections with other well-known people from the Capital decided to try himself with the last dare of his life – politics.
Justus envied his father. The man was a very skillful orator and had a well ability in managing his work. All the required skill for way of life and a later success in it. So why was it so hard for Justus if his father had been doing so well. He is sure that he is doing the things as his father did. Not to say that his father did not have a helping hand in the leading of the Ludus. He had helped Justus quite a bit when he would stumble. The connections with some of his associates were quite valuable. And yet it still wasn't enough.
But he knew that his father is not pleased with his work. He needed to do something stellar that would set him high in the eyes of others, and especially his father. But what? The upcoming matches in the Arena that would have his and his brother-in-law's fighters face in the Primus was nearing. Justus felt it would make great impact on his father. He was informed of the rumors from the higher-tier circles. It took some delicate and venereal labor, but he didn't mind. It was for his good cause after all.
He has waited for a day and a half already. He decided to go for the baths, biding for his in-law made him tense so he could use it along with his fine maids, he heard approaching footsteps from the entrance leading to atrium. A man appeared, his father's associate and informant that was sent to serve him. 'A very clever and competent man' his father told him in the letter. Why did that look like it was written with jeering undertone behind it? And what was this man's name again? He couldn't quite recall it, Dalus, Delius or something alike. It must be important if he came now.
''Greetings Dominus.'' He gave him salutation, his head bowed. ''I bring rather unfortunate news.'' He spoke with some sadness. ''There was an... accident in regards of your brother-in-law Petronius.'' He spoke with slight hesitation.
''Good Jupiter, what has that fool done now? Did he caught fight while sightseeing? Fell asleep while drunk and ended in another woman's bed? '' He tried guessing with a heavy sarcastic and exasperated voice. When the servant hesitated again, he gave a command. ''Well? Speak, do not stand as if petrified by the eyes of Gorgon.'' That was nicely said, maybe he should write it down for future references.
''I am afraid that the situation is more grim than the aforementioned.'' That did not sound good. Not at all. ''Master Pertonius was found deceased on the plaza.'' He finished.
Did he just hear right? His elder sister's husband was dead? It couldn't be. What was he to do about the Primus, the crowds will be furious. With just a few days before the event, he has no time to employ another one for the match. He fell to his knees while thoughts began to cavort in his head. He shook it as if that would help the current situation. He wasn't concerned for his demise rather than the loss of more coin that he will endure in the aftermath regarding the incident. What else could go wrong?
Dolusius looked at the kneeling man, what a pathetic sight. Patricians such as this one were ludicrous. This man-child is not even worth any pity. Sorting his thoughts for now, he said. ''Dominus, as the only person here of relation to Master Petronius, you need show and collect the body before anyone dares desecrate it further. Also you will be needed to confirm the identity officially.'' He said following the protocol, not that it was necessary to do so immediately, but for the sake of further process the sooner the better.
Finally picking himself up, Justus began rambling to himself. ''Why, for the love of Gods above and below, why must things happen to me?'' He continued with his whining. ''Why couldn't it wait for after the Games?'' He than grabbed his head in frustration.
''Dominus...'' Before forming a proper line, Justus interrupted him.
''Yes, yes, let us be on with it before more goes wrong on this day.'' And then, after a quick, needless preparations they moved to the Conlinia's center, with a few guards and slaves in tow.
The plaza was already filled with people, but many were gathered at the location of the one deceased Clodius Petronius, although the were kept away by a soldiers. The Magistratus of Conlinia was also there. He was a obese, shorter, balding man. He noticed the approach of Justus and his escort. ''Good Justus, my condolences. He was found this morning not long ago.'' He answered without any questions being asked. ''Horrible crime, barbaric I say. Rest assured, that we are doing everything in our power in finding the culprit.'' He added convincingly to the man. ''You came for the body, yes? The guards have almost finished wrapping the poor man.''
Justus only nodded silently, for he was still feeling of the outcome of this tragedy. As his slaves went to pick the body he was approached by Magistratus who asked of him. ''What is to happen to the Games?'' He whispered worriedly, he also planned on making a coin from it and was concerned about the profits of his own.
Another voice decided to brake into a conversation ''Such gruesome act upon the citizen of Bellatoria. How could have this transpire in our own city? Are we not safe to even walk freely any longer? Magistratus?'' Came a voice of Quintus Marcus Marcinius with some accusingly sounding question directed to the Magistratus.
Magistratus by a name of Pontius Aecious turned to him looking quite nervous. There were still people gathered, and has to assure that he has a control of the situation. ''Good Marcinius, as I have said to young Antius here, we are doing everything to prevent such a thing from occurring. We are to double patrols on the night, and will look for any beholders of the crime.'' He then looked at the crowd and began ''You have nothing to fear my fellow citizens, we shall not allow this to fall upon any of you! City of Conlinia will not fall to lawlessness! I hereby swear as your Magistratus!'' He addressed them, but they could not see the sweat on his nape. He, himself was not sure of his words.
''But what is to happen to the games on Sabbath?! What of the Games?!'' Someone shouted from the crowd, and the all began asking the same. Most has already payed for their seats. It is no easy feat to acquire the best ones closer to the sands.
''I-I am sure that we can work it through somehow! Y-you need not worry!'' Pontius shouted but the stutter in his voice was evident, he looked around for Justus, but the man was looking to the ground not knowing what to do either.
Marcinius raised arms and called for attention ''Citizens! People! Have we already forgotten that Conlinia has more than one Ludus?!'' He asked rhetorically, and the crowd calmed. ''Have we forgotten the gladiators my Ludus offers?! Of the mighty Igneous, or the phenomenal Ganicus?!'' He reminded. ''I stand, once again at your disposal!''
''Marcinius speaks truth!'' Shouted a woman. ''He must be allowed to compete!'' Went on another man from the gathered. The clamor was renewed as everyone supported Marcinius' entry.
Pontius tried to oppose some, for he was the one for the upholding the rules. ''I-I am sure you all want to, b-but there are regulations first, the...'' He was ignored as the mass started getting more louder in support of Marcinius. He turned his attention to Justus for help, but found none. There was no easy way of solving through this with the legal procedure.
Marcinius approached them both. ''The people are on my side it seems. Are you to deny them of their well deserved entertainment?'' He asked the now evidently sweating man. ''I already have necessary documents. All I require is yours and young Antius approval on the matter.'' Marcinius said in businesses tone, presenting them the paper of agreement.
Pontius gulped and had no choice to accept, if only to save himself from any more embarrassment. Justus also agreed, reluctantly, but he too had no choice as well. Again Marcinius spoke to the townsfolk ''We have reached agreement! The Arena shall provide your entertainment as per usual!'' They began cheering his name. Marcinius was pleased, very much so. He has gained a major popularity and at the same time he could relish over this 'diplomatic' victory over these insufferable simpletons. He felt pretty proud of himself right now.
''Well, shall we discuss final, minor details of the pact?'' He asked them, putting an emphasis on the word 'minor'. This feeling of superiority is quite enjoyable. ''In quiet of course.''
And so they left to sort the remainders of the accord. People slowly left to their duties for the day, pleased with how things turned for them. The body was taken back to the Justus' residence, and the three man talked things out in relative peace.
XxX
Back in the Marcinius' Ludus all the gladiators and the newly hopeful gladiators were having the usual day of practice. Maybe a surprising sight was that Igneous and Ganicus were not sparring this time. But no one questioned, they had the right to choose, as Ludus' best. Currently Igneous was sparring with Kastos and Ganicus traded blows with their retiarius Aulus.
As Kastos defended himself with shield, Igneous with much practiced speed and agility, made a turn with one foot and got behind Kastos while dealing blow to the man's unguarded backside. ''Death.'' Thought Igneous with a pleased expression following, Kastos was good, he had the raw strength more than a regular man, but Igneous was simply better. He was no mere man, Kastos was unaware of the fact, but it did not matter. The Hellhound had more larger set of skills at disposal, for if things somehow went downhill, people like Kastos would not last for too long. Not at all.
For Kastos it was another strike to his pride. He was brought here as a Champion from another smaller town's Ludus. His expectations were high when he arrived, wanting to justify and show his superiority he was known for in his old place. It didn't even last a year.
''How can that be? That such a man exists?'' At first he payed little attention to Igneous the first time he arrived, only some rumors he heard from others. Nothing too much, but the others did not like talking about the rusty-haired man. Someone said that he hears like no other, sees like no other, and has focus like no other. The man did not enjoy wine like Ganicus, nor a pleasure of women that he was offered as rewards.
For a time Kastos thought that he preferred man than women, but once heard, everyone laughed at him and mostly by Ganicus. He was called 'fool'. Ganicus then suggested that he acquaint himself with Igneous than make a fool of himself again. He tried and failed, Igneous' reclusive nature was to blame. Ganicus said that he is just 'complicated like that'. Whatever that meant.
''Is that your new strategy Kastos? Daydreaming while waiting for my guard to let down? Care to trade tactics with me?'' The man standing across from him said with a smirk on his face, tease obvious in his remark. At the very least, Igneous is whimsical at times. Kastos thought that this man only ever shows true colours in battle. It's proving to be truth.
''Perhaps a change of partners if we a...'' Only his sharp instincts saved Igneous from an slash that Kastos sent his way followed with an attempt to ram Igneous with shield. Igneous grunted as he partially stopped his advances, but he was still pushed several feet back. ''This is new.'' He spoke while maintaining his effort in stopping Kastos from gaining the upper hand in his assault.
''To take down a man of your skill, one must resort to improvisation.'' Kastos ground out as he give a jab with his gladius only for Igneous to parry it, but not without considerable strain. Igneous used the momentum to retreat from Kastos. ''It is still not enough''. The shield bearing man thought bitterly. ''What more must I do for the sake of triumph?'' He will never say it out loud, but he was growing to respect this man. What he did not like was shrewdness him and Ganicus shared when conversating. So far he was only privy to a small amount of information, and he did not like it. As he has said before, his opinion on that matter remains the same.
''Gladiators! Take pause!'' Doctore was heard, and indeed gladiators took their deserved break. Just gladiators, the trainees had to work further until they earn such privilege.
As they headed for the shade Igneous quietly asked ''Have you come to decision?'' They needed Kastos, for he was the third strongest and had a good relation with other gladiators. Not to say Ganicus did not, but because of their mutual camaraderie, the others would tend to trust him less than Kastos.
''It remains unchanged.'' The stocky gladiator said. Igneous sighed internally. Well, not everything can go as planned. That is one of the truths of life.
''I told yo...'' And he was stopped from talking the second time in a manner of minutes as Kastos turned a hard look on him.
''Just as I have told you. If you do not trust me fully, do not bother with asking for my help.'' He replied him and walked away further.
Igneous sighed for real this time. Why wasn't he like Ganicus? Ganicus got along rather well with everybody it seems. Of course, Ganicus had his own reasons to help, but with Kastos he was in the unknown. Paranoia instated of his other training made it so that he couldn't trust just anyone. He decided to leave the matter be for another time. No use wasting a well deserved break.
''Another attempt to socialize fails.'' Came a dramatic remark from Ganicus. ''Maybe we should come forth with the better way.'' He suggested nonchalantly. ''If we were to share the whole point.'' He added.
''You are aware that we could lose, rather than gain more.'' Igneous answered in a more subdued tone.
Ganicus looked at his reflection from the cup's contents. ''What other choice do we have?'' Time is nearing, only a few more days.
Igneous was not sure himself. He closed eyes to think and focus. It also allowed access to his other non-human traits. It was good to have it as a tool, the enhanced senses of a dragon. Beside the flapping wings of some birds, breathing from the others, he heard voices from the Villa. He listened to Marcinius, hearing most of the man's conversation with his wife. And he liked what he heard. There may be a way after all.
''We might be in luck it seems.'' He responded suddenly after opening his eyes. ''I wager that things will come better than anticipated.'' He supplied while grinning slightly, if one could look closely it would witness that the smile was of kind that promised nothing good. His eyes also took on a more menacing, crimson gleam with slitted pupils.
''Is that right? You still haven't told me about that.'' From what Ganicus knew of the rusty-haired man's 'gifts', is that they were mostly accurate when used. He was still curious of its origins.
Igneous blinked, and with the dangerous look in his eyes gone he turned to his comrade. ''Whatever you mean Ganicus? Come, the break is almost over. But tonight, there would be a cause for small frolic.'' He stood and walked to finish sparring with Kastos.
Ganicus simply raised a brow at the leaving man. Well, frolic men's joy. Whatever the occasion, there is bound to be wine. A thought ran through his head suddenly. Could this be from the night before?He will have to wait and see however. ''Sometimes all this enigmatic is nerve-gnawing.'' He thought letting out a frustrated sigh as he moved to finish with exercise. He noticed that Doctore was not there. The man being summoned by Dominus.
XxX
Marcinius was in a good mood. No, he felt exhilarated. The 'agreements' passed with no further objections from Justus or Magistratus. The look on their faces as he left after conclusion was priceless. If only he could employ sculptor to preserve their expressions. Ah well, there are still minor preparation before the event. Letting his gladiators know for one. After a brief spoke with his wife Julia, he called for Doctore, the man coming to him with swift.
''Massinius, dear friend.'' He greeted, and gave a good-natured pat on shoulder followed with a smile. ''Rejoice, for I bring most fortunate news.'' Massinius was relieved some, but still waited for confirmation of the Dominus. ''We are to compete in Primus!'' He exclaimed.
Shock of surprise first and then relieved smile on the Doctore's face. ''Congratulations Dominus. Your wits triumphed over adversaries.'' He praised. ''The men are certain to be eager for the coming days.'' Massinius continued further. ''Am I to announce to them?'' He asked, but knew the answer.
''Yes, do make it so. For we shall have not one, but two representatives to the finals. My best against that child's best.'' He answered, a mocking tone when speaking of his rivaling Lanista. ''Think, a majestic duel that not even the diviners could come up with!'' Marcinius spoke with rapture, before adding. ''This house shall finally reach it's rightful place and show that I am above the lowly such as Justus Aburius! At last, the Gods remove cock from fucking ass!'' He laughed merrily after that.
Massinius was also feeling pleased, finally the house of Marcinius' can truly show it's greatest assets.
After calming down, Marcinius spoke again. ''You know what to do further. Prepare our men. Particularly those two. Our entire future rests in their blades.'' He advised Doctore, just because. They could not let anything interfere, much less the lack of preparedness of his champions.
''Dominus.'' Doctore nodded and left to do as commanded. Marcinius left to spend some more quality time with his wife. Gods know he needed it.
XxX
After a training, the gladiators went to the baths to clean from sweat and grime. They all bathed together, no need for shame. And it saves time. Just then, their supervisor appeared and called for them. They all stood at attention. Dolusius was also there behind him.
''Men.'' He started with normal tone. ''I received the word from Dominus. Our Ludus is to compete at the arena.'' The bathing men all gave out shout of approval. Except Igneous who stood the furthest, he was expecting such development. Ganicus glanced at him and received a knowing look in return.
''The primus is to be a duel, between our two best and those from the rivaling Ludus.'' He paused and looked at the specific two. ''Ganicus! Igneous!'' He called out. ''You are chosen to represent the house of Marcinius. Your task is to make this Ludus proud with victory, with the blood of your enemies soaking the sands of the Arena. If not, then give it tribute by falling honourably in the battle.'' He finished with proud voice. ''Rest for the remainder of the night. Tomorrow your training shall be intensified.'' Massinius finished talk and left, knowing already why Dolusius came for.
''And now for the bettings!'' Dolusius yelled for them and many began conversing to him in hope of gaining more coin. It did not help that they were making tussle on who goes first. ''One at the time! One at the time you cunts! Else no coin for you!'' He tried halting them for an easier way of working. And getting some space to breathe, but the greedy men were hardly listening to him. ''Fucking twits have brains of toads in heat!'' Dolusius thought in desperation.
''Smug bastard, stop wearing that look.'' Said Ganicus who stayed behind with Igneous.
Igneous kept his smirk while turning to Ganicus. ''Why? Am I to be admonished by the likes of you?'' He returned rather presumptuously. Ganicus only rolled eyes.
Igneous took note of Kastos' absence, he was sure the man was there a moment ago. ''Kastos is missing. I think a little shindig is at hand, no?'' He suggested to the long haired man.
Ganicus looked at him and understood the meaning behind. Dolusius was almost finished with collecting bets, he choose to act now. ''Brothers! Since it might as well be one of my last nights among the living. I call for small celebration with wine. My treat, for all!'' He said with vigor and the gathered broke into renewed rapture. Of course he needed the wine first, so he sent for it.
Igneous wrapped his undergarment and left to get wine. Unknown to him, Dolusius' eyes followed him with suspicion. The former gladiator finished with collecting bets and also left. He followed Igneous in secret, while using his 'more than refined' skill in stealth. He followed the man to the storage which also crossed paths with all roads to the Villa. When Dolusius reached it, he could hear faint whispering, although by the sound, it could be an argument of sorts. He reached closer while still hiding against the wall.
''So that is reason behind your reluctance?'' Igneous was heard. The man was standing across from Kastos and a woman that he tried hiding with his body. By the look and smell of it they had an intercourse. ''She is precious to you.'' It was more of a statement than a question. Kastos wouldn't risk it because of a simple whim.
''A man who knows no of love has no place to condemn me.'' Kastos gave an angry response, glaring at Igneous the whole time. ''In spite of everything, you are one of the last I would expect to stalk others.'' He finished taking a step forward while also moving the girl behind him. He is not risking it in spite of Igneous' reputation.
''You mistake me for the likes of Dolusius.'' He said wryly, and felt a strange foreboding when comparing with the man. He sighed, now might be a good time. ''Kastos, I have little time, but I can trust you with greater extent. Do not make me regret this decision.'' Igneous informed the stocky gladiator. He needs to be quick with this or else it might cause a disaster. ''Listen well now.'' He started to explain everything in concise way. His reasons, along with Ganicus' and the whole cause. He kept mind of time, not wishing to get caught or worse.
XxX
Dolusius grinned from his position. This man has guts and balls stronger than steel. He even gained Kastos at his side. He did not need listen any longer. Things were clear and he has gained enough from the situation. It will turn out better than expected. ''Better indeed.'' He thought in satisfaction. He left hiding and headed to the Villa, he had much more chores to do. Important chores. A small paper fell from his robes, but he paid no mind to it.
XxX
After explaining everything in the most 'brief and laconic' way possible Kastos and Igneous headed back for the baths, Igneous holding wine pitches, the man next to him also carrying one. Kastos gave a woman, Kore was her name, a quick parting before following after the man.
''You are mad that it's beyond ludicrous.'' Kastos spoke quietly to the pitch-carrying man to his right.
''As I told you, there are many others. But we need allies. How long do you think before Marcinius or someone notices?'' Igneous turned a crimson look toward Kastos.
Kastos, not knowing why, was hesitant to return eye-contact. The man had a fair point. But he also had no place to speak about the matters of heart. ''If you prove superior and live after the Primus, then I shall follow you.'' His respect for the man's fighting prowess was known, but if he fails then he does not deserve the title of a 'leader' he set himself for.
''Alright, but remember that your discreteness is needful.'' Igneous reminded with some warning undertone.
Kastos only grunted. ''I am well aware. It is you who need believe in others.'' He answered to the Igneous' warning.
The rest of walk was quiet as they re-entered the baths. ''Was about to search myself, but I see all is fine.'' Ganicus noted and quickly took the pitches Igneous and Kastos were carrying. ''Brothers, let us share drink and retreat for tomorrow's day!'' He distributed the pitches among the present ones, who were glad to enjoy the treat.
''You did not take for yourself.'' Igneous noted.
''There is enough for now, and after the Primus all can drink for their heart content.'' Dirty-blond man retorted. He looked at Kastos for a moment. ''Will our comrade support us in our forthcoming trial.'' He added, drawling the last word and received a short nod from each man. ''Gratitude. Now, we sing while tasting the gift of Dionysus!'' He pulled Kastos along among the others and started singing. ''Blood rains down from an angry sky! My cock rages on, my cock rages on...!'' He sang the words and others joined him.
Igneous watched from a distance for a while. ''Ahh, why not.'' He may not like wine, but why not spend some time with others. He had to quell his lust for battle and distract his mind at the moment. For this time, it can't hurt to follow Ganicus' example.
XxX
Shattering of ceramic could be heard from Justus Aburius Antius' personal study. His own well-sculpted portraits breaking against the floor. All that anger and rage directed at one man in particular – Quintus Marcus Marcinius. How dare he? How dare that little, pesky rat do that to him? And that ingrate Pontius could only take on the proposal in order to save his face. Why couldn't his brother-in-law be more vigilant? What was he to do now that he had no choice, but accept terms of Marcinius' proposition.
''Damn fucker! Damn greasy, laggard pig! Damn it all to Hell!'' The documents and papers were next as they flew from his desk, ink spilling on some, but he didn't care for it. He had to vent his rage on anything, and where was that good-for-nothing servant Delius!? He sat against the wall, slightly knocking his head against it a few times. 'Why can't anything be easy for once?' He moaned pitifully in his head.
A man decided to enter after hearing that the rumpus ended. ''Those were fine portraits. Has Dominus cleared head and can think again?'' Was the question asked.
Justus looked up from his position and saw that servant who he couldn't remember name. ''Are you mocking me at this time?! I can order your decapitation, slave!'' He stated, anger returning to him.
To Dolusius, the words were like of a grumpy ten-year old. ''A thousand apologies Dominus, but you need purge your head of unprofitable rage, and turn to matter at hand.'' He spoke calmly. ''Not that it would help. Spoiled brat. You never had to use your brain.'' He gave an afterthought.
Still glaring at the man, the now despondent, young Lanista asked. ''And what, pray tell, would be enough to pull me from this shit?'' He slumped in defeat, sliding further against the wall now. He had good gladiators, yes, but even he knew of the reputation that Marcinius' best two had. The Hellhound in particular.
''Self-centered as usual.'' Dolusius assessed. It was always up to him. He walked further into the room, helping the man stand, even if Justus didn't put much strength into action. He held him, not wishing for him to fall. ''Have you already forgotten, Dominus. The gift, whose purchase we arranged, from Ishgar? It's arrival is in due tomorrow.'' He remainded hoping to spur the Lanista from the current mood.
Justus stood, contemplating for a whole minute until a chuckle escaped his mouth. Another one came after and then he was laughing like a man-possessed. If people were to stumble upon the scene... ''Yes, yes, yes of course!'' He said between laughter. Now feeling reinvigorated, he started walking to the balcony that lead to the view of the training grounds. ''Haha, yes! We shall have a battle of the wicked Ishgar and our noble, courageous Bellatoria!'' Oh, it looked like a dream come truth.
''Then, we need prepare Dominus. The take over is at morning hours, and...'' But the still raptured man simply waved him off like was not a difficult thing at all, if only he knew of the complicated bureaucracy behind.
''No need overthinking it, I shall send my scribes with you and the deal will be done with no problems. Am I wrong?'' He added a question while turning, in hope of looking a bit intimidating. Dolusius just bowed head and promised a veracity in service. ''Good, now off with you.'' He sent him away. The next head of Antius family released a breath of delight, while smiling cruelly. ''Just wait, Marcinius. You and your gladiators will be utmost surprised.'' Not even Gods could brag such craftiness.
XxX
Only one day to the Primus, and Doctore was using it to it's maximum to keep Igneous and Ganicus prepared for combat. The all-knowing sound of whip was heard as Ganicus fell after Igneous ramming into him. ''Ganicus, that was thoughtless! Do not lose focus! Igneous, raw strength guarantees no victory!'' Came the critics from the trainer.
''Gratitude for wise words.'' Was, unknowingly, the dry thought of both fighters. They knew better than to retort while Doctore gives admonitions or else they might never see the day end on their feet. Keeping mouth shut was a smart act for a time.
''You are not to lose focus, not even if Jupiter himself were to rip open the clouds and dangle his cock from the skies!'' He shouted, but finished in normal tone. ''A gladiator's first distraction is his last.''
''The first one is worth noting.'' The two thought in unison again. Wouldn't that be a distracting scene. Depending on a person, that is. And so the training continued until it was finally time for cessation. The duo of comrades were resting now and talking.
''I thought it never ends. Fuck, now I am to be sore through the night. No drink to lessen the pain.'' Complained Ganicus. In truth the training was necessary evil if they will to survive tomorrow. Everything is possible, but he had faith in his skill. Igneous' as well.
A splash was heard, and the water was now cascading down Ganicus' head. ''There, a cooling from Neptune himself to ease the pain.'' Said Igneous bemusedly as he admired his work.
In turn Ganicus looked at him in a deadpan. ''Behold, the adherent of Gods helps this tormenting soul. Whatever would I do without you?'' He said in his own words and then added. ''Perhaps you ought to become philosopher in the future.'' He finished in both joking and mocking fashion.
Igneous was quiet for a while. ''Have you ever given thought of the future?'' He finally asked of his comrade. He didn't have to wait long.
''No. I live in present moment. Whatever happens afterwards comes from my decisions to take such path, whatever it might be. Not the Gods, not the others. That period is close.'' Came an articulate answer to Igneous' inquiry. ''Why such question?''
Another pause before response. ''Sometimes I feel... not belonging here.'' Ganicus opened mouth to ask, but Igneous quickly carried on. ''Not the Ludus or the Arena. What led me to here, as if my actions were not my own, and that my fate was decided by someone else.'' He half-expected some lightsome quip from Ganicus, yet none came. When he looked to his left, he saw Ganicus staring at the sky. A non-recognizable look on his face.
''Where you came from or how, is not what matters.'' Ganicus started. ''The path you walk, people you interact with. You made your choices. Life is filled with crap. And yet, here we are, on the brink of a new age.'' He turned head back to the crimson–eyed gladiator. ''I cannot say what brought you here, be it right or wrong. You are here, and old enough to make your future in the long. Children suffer for their parent's mistakes, but I say the Hell with them. It is their fault in how we turn out to be when left on our own.'' The dimachaerus gladiator completed his opinion. Both their lives had things in common. From what Ganicus knew of Igneous' past anyway.
The all-round chuckled a bit and shook head in disbelief. ''What have I done wrong in having to listen your orations?'' Smirking slightly, he appended. ''You should take path of philosophy. Share your wisdom with the next generation.''
''Possibly, but if it were me, all the the future generation can learn is how to drink under the table. I imagine future mothers would want me crucified for corrupting the young ones.'' Just like Ganicus, being serious and wise and then turn it to the jest.
'' 'Lady Ganicus' would not be pleased.'' Quipped Igneous.
Not offended at all, dual-wielding fighter easily returned. ''You better worry about 'Lady Igneous'. I can't believe you are still pure. Why not get a yourself a nice fuck once? You can worry about love when you find the one. Live while you can, brother.''
''What kind of woman would ever love this. Even if you speak truth, there is no use in trying to find real love. It does not even make you stronger.'' Igneous said and stood, wanting to end it promptly. ''No point in arguing about it. I know what is on your mind.''
Ganicus could only roll eyes in vexation. This man is a real dolt when it comes to these things. ''Then find a woman who likes fighting and has the strength to match yours.'' What more could he say, since that is, mostly, the only aspects Igneous reveres.
The Hellhound gave him incredulous look. ''There is no such woman.'' Why did it felt he has made a grave mistake when saying that? ''Let us end the topic.'' He started walking to the baths and then to rest.
Not wanting to end it so soon, Ganicus accompanied him. ''I have the prime idea! Imagine: tall, eyes and hair of gold, ample bosom with arse like...''
Igneous only quickened his pace not wanting to listen anymore. Sadly, Ganicus had no intention of leaving him for now as he kept listing attributes of a perfect woman for Igneous. It was so absurd. 'Someone end me!' He implored in his head as he walked on. The rusty-haired man even contemplated to punch Ganicus hoping to shut him up, but knew that it would do more harm than good in the long run. Life had a twisted sense of humor.
''If I ever meet such woman, I shall supply Ganicus with endless amounts of wine.'' He vowed, half-listening as Ganicus started describing the nethers of an imaginary woman.
XxX
In another place, far away, a young girl suddenly sneezed causing her to stop in her tracks. ''Phew, am I really coming down with something?'' She asks herself. ''Nope. Someone must be talking about me, hehe.'' She thought merrily and started walking again, the mild breezy gust ruffling the blonde hair in the night.
A bit shorter than the last two, but it's a good prelude to the next chap and start of a long chain of action.
I'm afraid that the 5th chapter will come much later since I got exams this week. If you notice the lack of updating, you know the reason.
What can I say read, review, follow what ever comes to mind.
Any questions you got PM me or ask in a review, for I don't get much of those.