Disclaimer: It goes without saying that I don't own Fairy Tail and that I'm only borrowing the characters for my non-profitable story. Yes, I use them and gain not a single dollar, euro, pound sterling, pesos or any other currency under my name. Right, let's start wasting time that we all got in this world! Historical references that I use in my story are borrowed and do not necessarily correspond with facts we know today.
Indomitable Heart
Chapter 7: What We Do For Others
''...Jupiter's cock.'' The newly arrived Igneous cursed, while storing away his blade in a small flash of light. ''Have you no sense of self-preservation?'' He berated the other man, who was nothing but amused at the near-death experience. Must've come with age.
Leonidas simply shrugged it off. ''I trust your discernment my friend.'' The line only got him a glare in return. ''That was a great contest to leave such marks on you.'' The senior pointed out the still visible scars on former gladiator's face, thus changing the subject of his own health.
Igneous' glare lessened. ''More likely it shouldn't have happened. It is embarrassing thinking about it.'' The murmillo looked at the ground, his mind going back to the fight earlier afternoon. To think that he was almost killed off by some mindless animal, brought from some other land. And just for the sheer amusement of others. The event will remain engraved in his memory.
Leonidas saw it all in the young fighters troubled expression. There was more than he was telling, yet it can wait for now. They had a very important task ahead of them. ''I would like to hear about this fight after we are done here.'' But first things first. ''Now, I have few inquiries for our guest.'' He inclined his head at the man still hanging on Igneous' shoulder. ''Come over.'' He turned and started leaving the place.
The fire-wielding man followed after, now looking and realizing that they were underground when Leonidas and him started climbing the stairs. At the end of the steps was a double door that was opened and led to another room. The shelves, with scrolls and paper a clear sign this was someones office or a workroom. Who even builds a secret passage in their own house? Probably the ones that have something to hide or someone...
''Hoh! A new face!'' The silence was broken by a woman's voice. Both men turned to the source of the noise. Leaning against the desk was a woman with a brown hair held in a high ponytail and hazel eyes that Igneous swore were full of mischief. Was that good or bad, he couldn't tell.
She quickly pushed herself off the work-desk and walked towards them, sidestepping Leonidas and almost getting into Igneous' face as she looked up at him. She was maybe Iona's height, if a bit shorter. ''What is your secret? Prune, fractious or quiet and charismatic?'' She leaned back and clasped her hands behind. ''You don't seem like that loafer. How abo...''
Leonidas reminded them he was still here. ''Circe. There are, quite possibly, many ways of greeting.'' She turned to him, her smile not relenting one bit. ''You can acquaint with Igneous later. Right now, we have work to do.'' He spoke with authority.
Circe's eyes widened at the name of the man in front of her. ''Igneous?'' She gave him another quick survey, gaze resting on his left shoulder the longest. And the ginger-haired man couldn't but be ware that the captive was not what she was interested in. ''You are one then, hmm...'' She trailed off slightly, her smile now more controlled and lids half covering her eyes.
Before the man in question could say anything, Circe turned and pointed at the spot next to the window. ''Put him here, if you would.''
Igneous glanced at Leonidas and did as said after receiving a nod from the elder warrior. He lowered the man on a designated spot and was intrigued that he had not awoken after all the talking. He was alive clearly, but either heavily knocked out by brute force, drugged or perhaps...
''Ξύπνα.'' ...bewitched. With a hand gesture from Circe, a bluish mist seemed to vapour off the foreign ambassador's head. The man groaned as much as he could with a gagged mouth.
Andres opened his bleary eyes from what felt like a sleep on a very, very uncomfortable bed... Wait, he didn't fall asleep. Backtracking for a while, he remembered watching a gladiator fight at the Marcinius' Villa, but not how he came to be like this. There was a man, with a sickly green eyes and scarring on his face and before that running from rebelled slaves... Rebelled slaves? Blood?
''Not bad, that was a potent one.'' And who in the Spriggan's name was talking? ''Even so, only weak-minded like him could fall so easily to that.'' The ambassador tried to rub the sleep from his eyes to see better. Key word 'tried'. His arms wouldn't budge. There was an irritating sensation on his wrist when he tried to apply more force. He tried legs next, but they too were as responsive as his arms. He was tied! And obviously held captive!
''Greetings, envoy of Alvarez.'' The greeted man lifted his head to meet with a trio in some room. ''My apologies for inconveniences, but this was the only way to ensure you listen.'' The man who was speaking to him was now standing the closest while kneeling on one leg.
His sight finally clearing, Andres looked at the man he never saw before, to his best remembrance at least. On the man's right was a younger woman in a grab not standard for Bellatorian female populous. On his left though... ''Mphg!'' It was him! The one who started all, the face with crimson eyes and hair like colour of fire! That killing dog of Marcinius!
''Heeh, he knows of you Igneous.'' The hazel-eyed sorceress said with a carefree tone. ''Quite notorious, are you?'' She added teasingly to the rebelled gladiator.
At their prisoner's reaction, Igneous only raised one bemused eyebrow. Then decided to answer the newly acquainted ally. ''Not in the slightest.'' He wasn't that famous, rather he has sure left big impression if the bound man acted like that upon seeing him up-close.
Ignoring the talk behind him, Leonidas continued with his own. ''You need understand the position you face here ambassador.'' He raised his hand toward Andres' face making him flinch from the approaching limb. ''I will enable you to talk, for we shall deal with this as reasonable people.'' The gag was removed from the man's face.
Andres gasped the air, his mouth were dry. So he licked his lips to at least get some moisture on a crusting skin. ''W-What is this madness?'' He asked them crossly.
The kneeling one took a few seconds to think his words before answering. ''There is no madness here. Only people concerned for the safety of their own people.'' He looked directly in the eyes of the man against the wall. ''Tell me, good ambassador, are our doubts justifiable?'' The question was asked with such self-confidence as if the envoy knew exactly what he meant.
The smallest of twitches on his face that Andres bravely attempted to cover with his practiced skills in policy. ''No. I can't fathom what you are sayi...'' *CRACK* Luckily it wasn't anyone's skull, for it would have plastered the wall a bloody red.
''My political astuteness, arguably, is not best.'' Leonidas pulled the arm out of the cracked mortar a few inches of Andres' head. ''But I would be ashamed not to see when a person is being deceitful. In such proximity no less.'' He sighed regrettably. ''I had hoped this would can be avoided.'' He stood and turned to the other occupants of the room, who barely batted an eye at his display. ''Circe, do you mind bringing food? I, myself, grow hungry.''
Seeing that they had no choice, she complied. ''It would be for the best, yes.'' Leonidas turned again and grabbed the envoy's robes, dragging him at the opening on the floor like he weighted nothing. ''Do be mindful of yourself. I am unsure how much it could hold.'' Circe warned the descending man and a wriggling ambassador.
''Where are you headed to?'' The sorceress asked the approaching Igneous. She walked to the opening and closed the shutter while shaking her head in exasperation. Not giving him time to say anything again she muttered an incantation at the lid. ''Διπλό στρώμα: Σφραγίδα.'' It should hold up. Maybe. If Leonidas listened to her.
''I have no aversion for torturing. Down there, I could prove useful in extracting information.'' He tried to argue with the woman, but Circe held strong. This is something he hasn't seen often with other women. For all he knew, it could be Crypteia thing. Growing in a different way than other females in Bellatoria.
Circe clicked her tongue at him. ''Obviously.'' Her tone was sarcastic. ''If we wanted him dead and this mansion to fall over.'' She crossed her arms, but used her right one to shook an index finger his way. ''Our commander will be quite enough for one little worm of a man.'' And then she put on that same smile when he first arrived. ''Come now, you must be famished from your endeavour. It will be over upon our return.'' Thinking the matter is settled she headed for the exit of the office, as if knowing he would follow. No one payed any attention that the crack Leonidas made was no longer there.
And after one more look at the secret passage, Igneous made for the exit himself. To be honest, he was feeling the need for some food. The whole uprising and the Primus at Conlinia, he barely had a decent lunch. Might as well see if there is some other variety of nourishment than the standard gladiator's meal. Not that those were bad, it had everything to make a strong fighter with a proper training.
Circe, however, was malcontent with the silence. This one was proving to be vexing with all that taciturnity of his. She practically lived for conversation! And there was an unbeknown warrior of Crypteia right there! Circe hates the unknowns with all her being. She, being a natural conversationalist, pesters people for facts and infos. The answers only made her more talk-friendly.
''I misprise silences wholeheartedly. They are gloom, boring, dull, annoying and quite unimaginative.'' She opened her mouth again. ''Do you not have anything to tell or speak about. Be imaginative, even a little. I understand you do not know me well, but if we are to be allies and work together, conversing on a level would be much valued.'' Igneous turned his head to answer her babblement, but the words just kept coming. ''Make words come out on your own accord, I cannot always initiate so you ca-mapuqka...'' She stopped moving and blinked. A calloused appendage, bigger than her own was clamped over her mouth.
For his part, Igneous wondered how she's got such big lungs on such a small form. He was certain that even he can't blabber like that with the minimum intake of oxygen. This girl was unlike of Iona. Even if their meeting was brief, he got the feeling that the other sorceress was focused, no-nonsense and strict on a side. This one on the other hand... ''We can talk, but for the deities above and below, at the reasonable pace.'' He removed his hand from her mouth. ''Do we agree?'' He had to ask.
Circe was only mildly shocked and surprised. No one dared to do that to someone like her. Ever. This one's bold. Oh, this just might turn to be good. Seeing that he still awaits her reply, she gathered wits and nodded. ''Long as there is no grave silence, that is acceptable.'' She stuck her hand for a shake. ''Circe Aeaea.''
He shook hands with her, noticing a tattoo on the back of her wrist. ''Igneous.'' And so she took the lead, with the red-eyed man trailing slightly behind her. Most likely to the kitchen area or storage.
He has no last name. Circe is not stupid. Only slaves, usually foreign ones are without it. He does not look like a typical Bellatorian man either. But she decided not to pry on that subject. If he doesn't want to reveal it, that's fine. In her mind, they started splendidly well. Talks do wonders.
''Should we be seen in this place? Who is the Dom-... the owner of this household?'' Damn, a slip of tongue. He's still with the whole gladiator/slave routine in his head. Hopefully, it would pass.
''Friend's, good men, allies in high places.'' She smirked at him. He gave her a wry look after doing a quick brain jumble. Commander's words sure run deep into the head.
''Very amusing.'' He drawled out, yet she only shrugged shoulders and gave a knowing look in return. At last, the reached the doors to a room that will provide dinner. ''There are no servants.'' Igneous stated, then turned to his enhanced senses to have a check. ''Barely anyone is present now. Only two that are asleep.''
The pony-tailed mage opened the door before turning to look at him in slight amazement. ''That... is true.'' Wow, he can do that in a manner of moments, no visible spells or anything. ''How can you tell?''
''Particular set of skills.'' His face darkened at the mention. 'Don't ask' it said. Will she pick it up or be inquisitive? With how much she can talk, you never know.
She might have, actually, misconceived the point of his expression. ''Chase away the awful thoughts on fate of the owners.'' She waved her hand to show a relaxed posture. ''Servants do not live here and most family is away at their Villa on far west. Salt water for better lungs, or so they say.'' She went through the cabinets in the room looking for food and drink.
Igneous was relieved, but refused to show it. Good, the less past-digging the better. Not to let her do all the work, he began searching himself and found bread, fresh one at that. Some vegetables, but no meat. Well, this was kitchen and not the storage. He bit onto the dough, it was pretty good. Something was showed at his face as he turned, yellowish and smelled kind of like... sour milk. So that's cheese, fortune smiles upon them. ''Gratitude.'' He took it from her hand and bit a substantial chunk.
''Now, the owner, is a person of great importance for us.'' Circe started explaining aster settling against the cabinet and drinking water. ''I know not the details, but he stand as one of the, shall we say, more sensible of Bellatorians. The name still slips from grasp. Uhh Tolius, Tullius?'' She shook her head to get back on track. Names of those whom she barely swapped few words don't remain long in her head. ''Anyhow, our astounding plan is found on burying the scorn toward magecraft in the eyes of public. Then after, maybe even slavery shall be struck down.'' She let out a quiet snort when she finished. That was the very basic explanation.
There was a long silence and it felt weird to the fire user. ''Do you believe that?'' Igneous asked after she took the longest pause until now.
Circe closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She exhaled and looked across to the man. ''What is there left to do?'' She asked rhetorically. ''Certain ones among our ranks once prompted we go to war with the Republic. A retribution to all they have done to us.'' Her stare lowered to the floor. ''You were not there. We almost fell apart, our whole community. Then Leonidas made them ashamed of themselves. 'We need to be better than them, think better than them. Mindless slaughter will bring us nothing but more sorrow, we need to be smarter. To survive.' ''
All humor was lost from her face and her voice as she finished quoting. ''Adaptation was needed, traditional warfare was no longer an option.'' She raised her head and said. ''We took this path and there is no going back now.'' The smile started to return on her face slowly. ''In addition, we do work with interesting folk, yes?''
After pondering all she said Igneous retorted. ''You are right. We are set on this path and can only walk to the goal.'' The side of his lip quirked a little, unnoticeable for the most. ''Interesting folk? You should meet gladiators.''
Does he think she can't handle some meat-headed brutes? There might be some worth noting, but unlikely. ''Maybe I shall.'' She shrugged, the action flapping her cloak. She growled at the cloth and removed it with a flash.
Huh, is that what all sorceresses wear? It looks like an altered grab of a soldier. Tunic, leather armor and grieves, sandals and shin guards. Or it can just be Circe's preference. She had a pouch strapped to her right side. Ah whatever, it's not like clothes make a person. Suddenly, a tremor went through the wall Igneous was standing against. ''You felt that?''
Circe glanced his way and then at the door of the kitchen. That went faster than she originally estimated. ''Let us hope only we felt that.'' Along with half of Tibrus. She hooped off the cabinet. ''Back to work then.'' She went out, carrying a terracotta jug with her. Igneous hot on her heels, as he finished his grub. It was nice, the whole talk and food. Maybe he would do it again if there were a chance.
One short walk and they were back at the office to Leonidas. The man was there, glaring down at the wide-eyed and trembling emissary on the floor. ''He brought out what we need?'' Igneous asked first.
Leonidas turned from the shivering mess of a man to one of his strongest. ''Yes, but the answer brings more trepidation than relief. It is as we feared.'' He eyed Andres again. ''As for you, consider a blessing that you are still worth more alive than dead.'' No retort. He grabbed the smaller man's scruff and held him up. He was no longer bound, but by the look of it he was scared to even stand.
One could smell fear from him. And Igneous was unfortunate to be a wee bit more on the strong side of it. ''Eugh!'' He made a disgusted noise and asked for water. Like that would help by a large margin. Circe gave him none the less, with a questioning face. ''Fetid cunt.'' He mumbled after getting a big gulp from the pitch.
The murmillo's reaction was not nicely received from the opposite sex. ''What?'' Circe asked calmly coupled with a blank face. Who the fuck spews such offense post pleasant talk some moments ago? To a woman no less. Looks like time with the gladiators really does bad for one's manners.
Leonidas also wanted to know what went wrong, but then the thought hit him on why Igneous reacted like so. Unbelievable, and this one calls himself a man. Being afraid is one thing, to actually stoop on that level...
''What?'' Igneous parroted back, not getting the meaning of the proverbial ire directed at him. He was still getting rid of the smell from his brain. By the time he was over, the whole jug was nearly empty. Maybe that was it. ''Apologies, the stench of piss is unbearable.'' He nudged his head at the foreigner and took one more sip. It had to be done.
Now the only female mage was confused. What piss? She looked back at the man held like a puppet and saw small drips near his feet. Leonidas had a strange expression between embarrassment and disappointment. Oh...Oh! 'Fetid cunt and stench of piss!' To think that... ''Bwuahaahahaha!'' Incident avoided completely.
For Igneous, it might have been funny if he wasn't so grossed out. For Leonidas, it was a shameful to even consider oneself a grown-up with this incidence. For Circe, it was something she only thought that little urchins would do. And to witness an adult do it, absolutely priceless.
''...ohh, Hecate...my insides.'' She grabbed onto Igneous' shoulder to stabilize. Laughing your guts out is dangerous for health, apparently. ''We will get along splendidly.'' Yup, life felt so good with these small things on every once in a while. And with the guys like this one. Who knows?
Their senior comrade could only go through his hair in displeasure. ''If we are past this mockery.'' He cutted Circe's divertissement short. ''It would be a good moment to relay message onto others now.'' Like that, the good atmosphere was knocked down several pegs.
The woman sighed in resignation, time for some serious magecraft usage. ''Troublesome.'' She cracked her knuckles outward and went for descending the steps, but not before giving Leonidas a rather sour look. ''You held back exceptionally, commander.''
The green-eyed commander responded evenly. ''I think as well. The room should be left mostly intact.'' He added reassuringly. ''It is perfectly safe, I say.''
He is either messing with her or they have a very different views on 'safe' after what she thinks probably occurred down there. ''That is useful to know.'' She commented dryly, not holding back any derision. ''May Gods have mercy on my soul. Alala.'' And with the last, crooked smile she took a careful steps down the opening. 'Oh, Hades' balls.' Intact he says, perfectly safe he said! Damn the powers to hell!
Meanwhile, Leonidas, with much grace deposited the dangling whoreson at the only chair behind the desk. Andres was unmoving and pale as a rabbit before death. ''You understand the magnitude of our situation my friend. The autumn ahead of us is to be spend in rigorous preparations.'' Leonidas crossed his arms as he looked at the recovered Igneous.
Well fuck, maybe it's fate or some other crap, but the fighting just won't stop. ''An open war with enemy mostly unknown.'' The gladiator agent put the jug on the table and leaned on the wood a bit. His face scrunched in concentration of what comes next. Consolidate the ranks, prepare the army, logistics, his own preparation, the gladiators... And what of the rest of Republic? How to gain their attention and turn them toward the cause? 'Ugh, shit.' This is really not his forte. He's better of being at front lines than doing strategic planning and all the above.
''One step at the time Igneous.'' The commander chastised the still growing young man. ''We all had struggle to reach that point of mind. You will learn eventually.'' He tried installing some confidence in protege. Igneous did splendidly so far, not to say such thing out and let it get over his head.
Igneous nodded, turning his head to glance at the sitting prisoner. ''What of him?'' They're not just gonna leave him here. There has to be more than that.
Leonidas made a sound at the back of his throat. ''He is yet to serve his purpose. You will see my friend, it might prove most interesting.'' He smirked slightly. The talk would go on had Igneous not turned to the door sharply. Someone was coming, but he could already guess who so there is no need to panic. ''At ease.'' Better be safe than sorry.
The door unclosed and in came an elderly man. He was balding, with gray curls on the sides and wearing a nice looking toga with a rich purple strip. He gazed at the jumpy young man and then Leonidas with his eyes finally landing on the man sitting on his chair. ''Need I even ask?'' The voice hardly held any surprise whatsoever.
''Greetings, good Cicero.'' The red-caped man now stood next to Igneous. ''I am afraid that worst has come to pass. Or, politically correct, it will.'' He informed the gray-headed man.
''So it would seem.'' The old Cicero went to check on the second familiar face. ''Is he for this world still?'' He asked after doing a quick inspection a few feet away, because to him this conscious lump may as well be half way for the afterlife. Leonidas confirmed there's life in him.
The conscious lump was very much alive, but his current state was not showing it. He could still form proper thoughts at least. And they were racing as a horse on a hippodrome. How did Bellatoria come to house such powerful individuals after learning the way mages are treated here? If this Leonidas is that powerful, then what does Hellhound Igneous hides beneath that frightening, red-hued gaze? He spilled the beans down there, but who wouldn't after witnessing what he did?
Despite the Spriggan elite guard rumored strength, with men like this in Bellatorian service the plans for his beloved Empire's expansion would've hit a major roadblock here. He plans to be of use to his homeland, but for now it's better to lay low like this and get his body to function properly. His limbs are still numb.
Unknown to the track of thoughts of the foreigner, the other three carried on with discussions. Some remain hardheaded. ''You may lower guard, young man.'' Cicero now spoke to Igneous directly, the said young man refusing to relent. ''I am Consul of Republic, Marcus Tullius Cicero. And I am an ally to your faction.'' The aged man spoke with a clear, controlled voice as he would when doing orations in the past at the city's Forum.
For Igneous, grown in an environment where he learned that strength, sturdiness and versatility are one of the most significant things needed for living, this meant almost nothing. Yet, he won't make himself look like barbarian, so he showed a modicum of courtesy. ''Igneous, good Consul.'' He inclined his head, not in obsequiousness as with Marcinius, but passable for a free man in his book.
Cicero returned the gesture which seems to prompt a strange look from the former gladiator. Not really surprising, Cicero reasoned. ''Hellhound Igneous of Conlinia. I heard of you.'' He stated. ''This mean the plannings went as well as they should.'' The old Consul analyzed. He made a small walk around the room, mostly to keep himself from standing. ''Then we must make haste. I will have my personal messengers invite others to Assembly. This is a national level threat.'' He then pointed at the Alvarezian envoy. ''We will need him as well, in order to confirm involvements.''
Politicians can be of great use in organizing. When motivated, that is. ''We are ready at the very moment. Let us do so.'' Leonidas took what's left of the water from the jug. He'll have to wait for the food unfortunately. That Circe, probably bothered Igneous with talk and forgot that even the commander has a stomach that requires food.
The Consul beckoned for Leonidas that swiftly followed him, but not before giving Igneous the orders to stay put and keep watch on the prisoner. And so, the young warrior was left alone for the time being. Circe doing who-knows-what in conveying with other men and women connected with their goals, and the other two having some last-minute adjustments.
He walked to the window, occasionally keeping an eye on Andres. Nothing from the man so far, some minor twitching. Hence he saw no big reason not to down with his senses. The turd would hardly catch him off-guard even like this. Igneous sighed, turning eyes to the night sky. Stars are pretty tonight. They stand there, just glowing without any care. And they will likely do so after his time passes. Hm, what would they look from a close perspective? And how many are doing the same thing he is?
Finally getting one hand to work, Andres slowly looked at the his stargazing century. Counting his luck, he dipped his hand into his pocket not wishing to make any noise with his movement. Carefully, his hand grasped a small spherical object in it, but he dared not do anything for now. With his current state, he couldn't hope to do it right now, so he took steady breaths and bided his time.
XxX
''Ahh, the stars are lovely tonight.'' Said the brown-haired man in the night. '' I envy them. Up there, with no care for our mundane lives. They just keep gleaming on... and on...'' He stopped the sentence and made a thoughtful face. ''I would not mind being one, perhaps a cloud. Flowing at the winds.'' Yeah, that would be ideal. Just floating at the top, and doing nothing but watch and bathe in sun and moon. It would be a dream come true for Hector.
And what are two gladiator that lead him to the Marcinius' Villa suppose to say to that ranting. Sevius thought that this man could sleep through the siege or even Primus with that attitude. And this is Igneous' senior of some sort.
Kastos thinks that Igneous knows some really strange folk. The young woman with behaviour he never saw before far as females are concerned, and this one who Igneous appears to respect. Is it possible that there are others more powerful than their best gladiator? Adding the use of fire magecraft and who can stand against such force? This man has so far shown nothing to prove the point.
''Why do you wish to see the Villa?'' The younger Sevius dared ask of Hector. One moment they were sitting in a quiet, making some small talk here and there, when that woman, Iona was it, suddenly bolted back to a second room with Hector following soon after. Not without the grumble about 'annoying timing', 'they work like in anthill' shit or something.
Hector, for his part, did an amazing job at answering properly. ''Condition assessment.'' Then he made another brief look at the infinite darkness above.
The retiarii gladiator was not overly pleased with the answer. They were to take orders from this guy in Igneous' stead while he was assigned some other task. To say that Hector and Igneous have a different outlook is like saying Ganicus would have problem choosing between wine and woman. Solution, both of course. ''For what good is that?'' He pressed the strange man for more.
Getting no real comeback at first, Kastos felt like making the younger gladiator to stop pestering. He was curious as well, but Sevius' should learn how to withhold his tongue more. Just because they were no longer bound to Dominus, or no more had to fight in the sands doesn't mean they should take the newfound freedom lightly.
However, it was unnecessary from the stocky man's side as Hector replied either way. ''That remains to be seen.'' He managed more than three words now. He did want to gauge the gladiators that will be fighting on their side in a new, joint effort in preserving Bellatoria. ''Pft, life must be one big act.'' Certain bodies are turning in their graves right now. And if there is some deity or whatever watching the play, they are either laughing their asses off or just lying with their legs in the air and hands propped supporting the heads.
Kastos now tried his approach. How much will it work, depends on Hector's current mood. Based on how he gave his answers so far, the freed murmillo needs to choose his phrases prudently. ''If I may query, Hector?'' He started warily, but the new face simply gave a casual sign with his head and a thin smile. Good, current mood is blithe at best. ''What is our future goal Igneous mentioned?'' He went with a blunt one.
The gray-caped man hummed a few seconds. ''Do you know the reason for magecraft is outlawed?'' Question answered with another question.
Kastos tried indulging the answer with the best of his knowledge. ''For meddling with forces beyond that of human's reach?'' He managed to put it into words he considered not too offending to Hector.
If he was insulted, Hector showed it with the strangest of ways. ''Mh, that is for public knowledge, yes.'' He turned his head to look at the passing houses, which were getting fewer as they neared the Villa. ''You hail from Gallian people?'' Kastos nodded yes, not seeing why that is important. ''I am Illion, hailing from the lands of Hellenia now under Bellatorian reign.'' He let out a weak chuckle. ''I do not see why there were much divided tribes then. We all spoke the same tongue, worshiped the same Gods. At most. It all seems trivial now when I turn mind to past.''
''That was not the question asked.'' Grumbled Sevius from the other side. What the hell does their origin have to do with anything?! He himself is out of these lands. This man is really getting dreary with all his back and forth way.
Hector only turned him one lazy eye. ''You are little slow with reason Thracian.'' Sevius' eye twitched at the jab. ''Would you rather we all slaughter and drown in blood for vultures to reap the prize.'' Another twitch. Perfect, more hot-blooded men. Like there are not enough of them.
Fortunately for all present, Kastos was more quick on discerning the mood. So he had to play the peacemaker again. This is so not his best day. ''Still your cock, fool. Have you learned nothing after the Villa earlier? Did you failed to make heed of Igneous' words?'' He growled to the Thracian, taking his shoulder in a strong grip.
Sevius relented, knowing when he's bested. ''He is not Igneous. Neither is he a gladiator.'' He showed the arm off his shoulder and rolled it to get the blood flowing properly.
''You hold respect for him now?'' Kastos snorted at him. How things change for only one night.
Sevius rolled eyes. ''He showed fucking balls with the rebellion. When I see more that warrants respect, I will give mine damn one.'' Not like murmillo had any room to talk.
Leastwise, Hector supposed, that will have to do. The fighters are willing to act on command, but the discipline is another ordeal. If the situation is too volatile, then it requires intervention. ''Oh, we arrived.'' He noted. His two companions had a surprised faces. Time sure flies when one is immersed.
Kastos had the similar line of thoughts. They neared the front gates that held two guards. Guards in disguise. Guards in disguise that were eating apples. Eating apples and cleaning dirt from nails with knife. The Ludus' third strongest withheld a weary sigh. That's not professional behaviour. What if someone else decided to pop their head and find out what transpired here?
''Halt! State your names and intentions!'' The left one barked. It was Argos most likely, if Kastos remembered who they appointed as watch the last time. Hard to tell in that grab. But then again, his clothes did the trick in the city. Not a soul that walked the night had the balls to stand on their path.
The former murmillo removed his helmet, if only for appearance sake. ''It is us Argos. Open the gates.'' Poor Kastos did not know how bored their best hoplomacus was.
Argos didn't budge and took another bite of the fresh fruit. '' 'Us' is a vague term.'' He said after swallowing his last bite. He walked closer to them, hand on his sheated gladius. Just because his main weapon is unavailable doesn't mean blade is unfamiliar form of combat for him. ''Show papers or I will escort you off.''
''Do you even know to use that word?'' Kastos sneered tauntingly to the slightly taller man. ''You make room or I will.'' He really had no time for this crap of role-playing. Besides, there's a person dearly missed waiting him.
Argos didn't look much perturbed at the potential threat. He flicked the finished apple's core to his left, which ended clanking off Linus' headgear. ''Throw yourself to the crows, Kastos.'' He said not acknowledging the glare the second guard send his way. ''And by Gods, learn some jest.'' They took each other forearm for gladiatorial shake.
''For pure amusement of others, I swear...'' Kastos muttered under his breath. When he tried to enter, he found Argos' arm draped over his shoulders preventing further walk.
''Brother, you appear to have three heads missing, returning with one and a half unacquainted.'' He looked the murmillo in the eyes. ''Explain the peculiar number.'' Now he was subjected to the said 'half' affronted dirty look, coupled by swears of decapitation or neck-wringing if his hearing caught it right. ''Whoever said it referred to you Sevius.'' Argos threw him a fake smile.
''What you see is next step of common design. The rest had their duties given.'' He pointed at the man Argos was not familiar with. ''And Hector is to delegate our new orders.'' He removed the hoplomacus' arm and entered the Villa, his two companions trailing behind.
Argos gave each one a passing look receiving an amicable wave from Hector and a narrowed eyes from Sevius as the doors closed. ''What in the heavens is to happen next?'' He asked more to himself than his present company. This whole thing reeks uncommon sense. Instead of running out of the habitat far from the Republic, they remained standing. Along with the whole patricians turned captives now without using them as leverage. Or are they? Very, very odd way of doing things. But in all likelihood, the decision was not on him. So with nothing else to do he returned to his post.
XxX
Counting all who were not, technically free yet, the Villa as whole had around forty people or less. All former gladiators with Doctore, those still in training without the mark of a gladiator and house slaves along with one Medicus. Needless to say, the hierarchy was long since established. Igneous did left the most trusted in charge, but Ganicus even with Doctore's help can't reign over everyone.
As long as they don't start slitting throats and gouging eyes it was fine. They can eat and drink their share. They can fuck if they want to. The only specific rule was that the owners and their guests be kept alive and out of harms way. Freedom is still very new notion to these men and women. It was used to it's potential.
''Ah, the glories of free will.'' Ganicus thought as he strolled through the halls of the place with a cup of wine. He left Doctore outside to take care of the Dominus and his visitors. He passed the main sleeping room of the housing. Some gladiators were making a good use of it. He would be tempted to use Igneous', now available chambers, for his own pleasure but alas he had a duty to uphold. He'll make an exception to his friend this time. He owns Igneous that much from all previous favours of drink and cunt. ''Much gratitude, Brother.'' He cheered mentally from reminiscing.
From the atrium, the all-knowing song rang out. ''...I torch you down, I give no shit! I piss on your grave for the sport of it! When I die I expect no less! Mind is gone! My cock rages on!'' He raised cup at Morios, who appears to be having a great time. Wine and sex are not scarce, so no use in punishing anyone.
''More wine, Brother!'' Morios supplied the dimachaerus from the pitch he was carrying. ''To freedom!'' The clang their drinks. Morios really looked more inebriated than ever. The dimachaerus gladiator would've joined had he not had a task of a glorified supervisor. ''Come, join us Ganicus! Free cunt all you want!'' He slurred to the dirty-blond and waved in a general direction of where he was headed.
The prospect is tempting, but he will have to disappoint. ''Gratitude, any other time I would. Yet I must hold my obligation.'' He patted the other man good-naturedly. ''Go, now. Enjoy while you can. I am unsure how much time the future will give us.'' With that, he sent Morios off. The man making way for another female houseslave. Most of them were women anyway. One or two were male.
The inside of the Villa is, in Ganicus esteemed opinion the safest place for now. What vexes his mind is the outside. That new batch arriving few weeks ago. Not being proper gladiators made them somewhat ostracized from the larger part. From the total ten which came at first, now only seven were left. And considering that they are composed of those slaves brought from mostly barbaric regions of the Republic... Now there's a recipe for possible disaster if Ganicus could think of one. 'Best make sure.' If the rich were his least favourite charges, this comes close second.
As if he had the strong power of foreknowledge, Ganicus walked into a rising storm, metaphorically speaking thank Gods. Or not. ''Fuck.'' He discarded the cup and grabbed a hold of his two looted blades. Iovis was the one trying to beat two of the newbies and Livius traded blows with another. ''Where in fuck has he found gladius?!'' Far as he knew, all weapons from the dead guards were accounted for and given to the best gladiators.
With a great experience for a man of twenty-three summers, Ganicus leapt in between Livius and his adversary. The short-haired Thracian didn't relent and tried to move past Ganicus, but dimachaerus caught his blade with his crossing two ones, intending to shove him off. Once he managed to push Livius away, the dirty-blond gladiator sidestepped the swing from the unnamed gladiator wannabe. Rookie's mistake keeps piling, and Ganicus capitalized on it by kicking with his right leg and throwing him even more off the balance. Risk paid off.
Another one came to Iovis' aid. Doctore, returning from a check up from the Medicus, used his whip to snare the leg of one attacker and bring him to the ground. Iovis, finally given a breather, forced himself down, grabbed the legs of the one enemy remaining opponent forced him to the ground. Now him out of air, Iovis climbed to his chest and started delivering punches to his face.
When it seemed that the four other rookies were sprinting to enter a fray, a sudden gust of strong wind came by. It forced almost all of the combatants to the dirt they were standing on and rising considerable amount of dust that caused them all to lose focus and cease fighting. Fine powder from the ground used to incapacitate the senses of sight, getting into the mouths, noses, ears. It kept on swirling in the reminds of a dome for a long half minute and then began quelling.
When the dust settled, Ganicus was first to recover. He was kneeling, one sword used for support and with the other forearm shielding his eyes. There at the gates stood an unfamiliar face with Kastos and Sevius behind. The newcomer lowered his arm behind his cloak and shook his head. ''Seems we came at good time.'' His tone sounded bored, yet Ganicus was aware that this man is dangerous after putting two and two together. ''I am curious, what was the occasion that demanded blood?'' He looked at the kneeling double-sword wielder as he approached.
The dimachaerus stood with a small grunt, shaking grime from hair. ''My intervention was late to know the reason.'' He turned around to see Doctore and Iovis getting up, and Livius along with the new batch spitting dirt and rubbing eyes to rid the irritation. ''But I presume a mere verbal spat to be the like cause.'' He loudly directed it at the others standing and half-standing. The culprits are sure to reveal themselves if he was accurate at his assumption.
Like fish to a hook. ''This scum!'' The one whose duel with Livius was interrupted spat at the same man. ''He insults my clan! When mine is always superior to his!'' Quite the mouth, this one is a clear foreigner. ''Stupid, weak Maedi. Kainoi always better than you dogs!'' He spat again and the other four backed him up.
''You have no women of your own and have to steal ours. Your whole clan is but a laugh, waste of Thracian flesh!'' And so the two of opposing outlandish tribes tried burning a hole through each other.
He was about to lose life for a rivalry clan's squabble and whatnot. ''Fuck the Gods and damn you Igneous.'' And now it's up to him to diffuse the whole thing. Better that than explain the lack of men at his watch. ''You.'' He gained attention of the unknown Thracian. ''Your name.''
It took him a moment to give that. Like it might kill him. ''Olorus.'' Finally identified himself.
''What reason did you stay for? You heard what Igneous said, if your goals oppose ours then leave before your life is wasted here.'' He indicated to Doctore and Iovis. ''They are no Thracians, yet they helped a brother. We all share a bond beyond that of a clan and blood feuds.'' He took two steps forward, making them shrink back from his serious stare and posture. ''If you cannot look past your own arrogance for clan dispute,'' Ganicus paused and turned one blade to Olorus and his band ''I will cut you all down myself.''
And there Hector felt something off with this one. He gave a nice warning speech, but they say the unnaturally strong or gifted have a certain aura about them. Hector wasn't quite sure, he is no expert. Yet he felt an unusual raise of hair on the back of his neck. 'Is this person the one Igneous trusts the most?' Guess he will find out one way or another. Seeing that there is nothing more to be said, the Thracian group scuttled to their own corner. Most likely to clean and get water.
Fortunately, this whole mess was isolated, not drawing attention. The rest of gladiators too engaged with another matters. And prior to wishing to say his thanks, Livius was now forced to listen to the second strongest. ''Do not take me for a fool, Livius. You gave him that gladius, wishing to prove superior in useless contest.'' Not wanting any excuses, Livius was denied word. ''Do not fucking speak. You stupidity could have costed us brothers.'' He sheated his swords and kicked back the third one to Iovis. ''Next time, you will find yourself absent help.'' He hissed out.
Massinius was quite impressed with how Ganicus dealt with this. Upon wishing to give small praise to his wits, Doctore noticed the blood trailing down the long-haired man's leg. ''With all the rumpus, you tear your stitches Ganicus.'' Ganicus lowered his gaze to the wound he gained in Primus and groaned. Just great. Doctore beckoned Livius to return to his job and Iovis to bring Medicus.
Ganicus trudged over to the benches of the dining area where in the back, the captives were being given some food. ''Am I to assume that whatever Igneous had planned involves you?'' He directed his inquiry to Hector after sitting his ass on the wooden bench. Massinius stood at his right and Kastos was near Hector's left. Sevius excused himself and waded out to the inside.
''I must compliment you. Such verbal resourcefulness is rarely seen.'' It strangely reminded him of a certain someone he knows a long time.
The gladiator of two swords scoffed and let the praising slide. ''I wish not to die from someone's pettiness. When we part ways, they can fuck each other ass for all I care.'' He made it sound cruel, but it was a cruel truth. ''But as we are here and now, we work no different than close group of slightly insane individuals.'' He finished it with his signature grin. So long as they are joined, he won't allow unnecessary killing. Even if that group consisted mostly of men trained in the arts of killing more so than an average Bellatorian soldier.
What an interesting way of thinking. Now Hector knows the familiar feeling that was going through his head. They are not much dissimilar than Crypteia. Various lives, backgrounds, origins, and ideas in one place. When it comes to fighting, they will defend themselves and solve problems like family that's been together their whole life.
''From the mouth of Ganicus, the greatest hedonist of Ludus.'' Kastos deep voice cut in. The notorious free-liver as Ganicus, acting all responsible, preaching reason and justice. It was highly amusing to the stocky gladiator.
His grin lessening, the dirty-blond man shrugged. Why would he deny it. ''True.'' He gazed at the back, seeing an all too cheery visage of their Medicus. And along came Kore bringing the tools and supplies for the old healer. ''And now prove to us that even you succumb to the pleasures of life, Kastos.'' Ganicus said knowingly, making the murmillo gain a healthy colour to his cheeks. Not that it was noticeable to the most.
Kore swatted Ganicus on the arm lightly. ''What were Gods thinking when giving you such mouth?'' She chided the sitting man with a small scowl while putting down the tools for the healer to work. She found that, after a short talk, she could get along with the dimachaerus. If it wasn't about fighting, Ganicus can lift the mood with his own way of words. He just had that something that makes people loosen guard around him. Lighthearted wasn't the word, but it's out there.
Ganicus, true to her believes, didn't disappoint. ''Impudence, hitting a crippled man bleeding!'' He said in a faux-shocked way. ''Brother, do not let this deed unpunished!'' He raised his finger to the chambers of their best fighter. ''You will find Igneous' quarters to your desires!''
Five or so seconds. That's how much Kastos counted would take to strangle the cheeky gladiator's neck and silence him for eternity. In any other setting maybe. He saw that Ganicus' exclamation put the right ideas in his lover's head as well. If judging the way she smiled and turned her eyes away.
''Must I give you impulse?'' There he is again. ''Kore, he has clearly forsaken you. I am willing to...'' He didn't finish since Kastos, no longer wishing to stain ears with crap, took the girl's arm and lead her to more private place. He is not sure if Ganicus was serious about doing what he intended to say, but he doesn't want to find out. And the girl, with a giggle and a wave kept the pace without hinder.
Massinius let out a weary sigh through his mouth. ''Your way of caring for comrades is commendable.'' What else would a good friend been willing to do for his close ones? This new side he keeps seeing to his former trainees is simply astonishing. So this is what happens when no longer in servitude to Dominus.
''Caring, Doctore?'' Ganicus made a weird face. There must have been some confusion on the side. ''I would have done as promised had he not grew balls.'' He whispered the next words. ''It would be a waste.''
The dark-skinned trainer closed his eyes with another soft puff of air. Everyone's unique, yes. If Ganicus wanted them to believe otherwise, then so be it. He opened them to the new face who kept his tongue during the exchange of words. ''With Kastos' departing, we best start with introducing.'' His voice prompted Hector to look at the tall, Nubian trainer. ''I am Massinius. And you have my gratitude for preventing an imminent bloodshed.''
Hector rubbed his neck with a sheepish smile. ''I couldn't allow Igneous' dear comrades be killed, could I?'' He lowered his arm back. ''It would reflect poorly on me.'' That and he needs them to be uncrippled and ready for next. He reckons more than one angry mouth would be trying to tear his throat out. He gulped. Not the best mental image.
''You are like Igneous, no?'' At Hector's puzzled face, Ganicus clarified. ''You wield magecraft as well.'' To be able to bend winds under his command, this seemingly slothful and slow-poking man could be even more dangerous than Igneous on some weird scale of magus ranking.
The look of realization crossed Hector's front. ''Ah. No, neither Igneous or I are proper mages.'' He informed them with a lazy smirk. They sure as hell wouldn't know what to think from that, so he decided to shed some light on their minds. ''More precisely there is a difference between what Bellatorians consider 'magus' and a 'true mage'.'' This might take a while, so he leaned against one supporting pillar and crossed his arms.
''Magus is, in simple term, a member of a priestly caste and the one who is attributed as having connection to the Gods. An oracle.'' This was always the easiest part. ''When Bellatorians conquered Hellenia and reached the ways to Nubia, the word 'magus' was adopted and connected with the ones who could control aspects and made unnatural happen.'' There is so much more to that, but even Hector, for all the smarts out there knew no one could come to an agreement about how magecraft and magic works, so he stuck to the common believe.
''Magecraft has many uses; from mundane such as control over elements with nothing but words to enchanting, combat... With its use, one can make the impossible possible.'' He noticed that they were listening very intently on this part. ''Bewitching and spellcasting are one way. Some name it channeling nowadays. Make no mistake, learning the art such as this, may take whole life. Mages who are dedicated spend all the time in perfecting their craft and skills, hence why certain choose recluse or solitary lives.'' He took a deep breath before moving on. ''Such choice proved fatal. They were rejected by society, hunted and killed, for people feared their nature and intent.''
Ganicus was quickly connecting some dots, yet some didn't add up. ''You speak as if there was no oppression of mages in the past?'' How did it all start? The Bellatorian killing spree of those people.
Hector half-shrugged. ''I cannot say for certain.'' His eyes then took a more darker shade if possible. ''Rumors say that Bellatorians were targeting Hellenian territories for specific reason. They sought to make use of magecraft for war purposes.'' There was a brief but grave silence, the torches outside still providing light.
This is all so messed up, is what ran through the head of the youngest seated man. ''Your words are still unclear. Why kill mages if they are to be used for battle?''
The wind user shifted to get more comfortable. ''Most magecraft can be taught to others by mages. But, to a mage their art is precious almost as life itself. Thus they are reluctant to disclose their secrets to those outside of families. And Bellatoria wanted quantity not quality.'' It should be self-explanatory why the tortures and murders were committed.
''Yet Igneous was kept alive.'' Massinius gave his own piece of the mind. Now he was the center of attention. ''In old stories, it is believed that a child of mage's with a latent magical potential, if groomed and trained properly can become exceptional fighter. Their powers are repressed, but the expectancy of great results remain.'' He found it hard to believe four years ago when they brought the young boy with magical origins. ''I believed them myths until that day.''
''There is verity in those stories.'' Hector confirmed Massinius' claims. And as usual, he diverted from the subject to some extent. Now to answer the original question. ''Nevertheless, Igneous and myself are not considered 'proper mages' for we have not learned our craft the same as the rest of sorcerers. Therefore, we are not regarded as true wielders of spells.'' He told them without worry. ''Now,'' he straightened his back and clapped hands for the reason only he is aware, ''let us plan future.''
Ganicus made a brief swap of looks with Doctore and stood up as well. The Medicus having finished with his wound and left at some point in their conversation. Some nagging voice in the back of his head was telling him that there was more to it than what Hector has divulged right now. How irksome. Chances are that Igneous is having more interesting stuff to deal with than he is. He's totally having a better time.
XxX
Igneous was not having a good time. Not one bit. After Circe finished her job of messaging to their faction and other allies involved, then Leonidas brought him up-to speed on what's to come. Somewhere between the lines included being present at the Senate assembly, with politicians. Rich politicians that prattle. And he is to be there with ambassador.
To make sure he does thing properly, the female sorceress was all to happy to remind him of the exact ordeal. Gods bless Circe for even at this hour she's glad to help his ignorant mind doesn't screw-up the over-perfected publicity stunt. How many mind had to brainstorm to come up with all this? ''For the last time, I remember what to do.'' Gods, this was like fifth time.
''There is no harm in rehearsing, Igneous.'' Even if her intentions were all good, for the fire user it came off like a hit to his intelligence. Far from it that Igneous is stupid. His performance and wits, however, are more suited for another kind of battlefield. One with sharp edges and a lot of burning blazes.
The ginger warrior snorted indignantly. ''You speak as if we are to preform for the audience.'' He had his fair share of that, but in this case it should be absent of stab wounds, cuts and spilled guts.
''Mmhhm, and you would know that the best.'' She cheerfully attached to his last statement. Now that he mentioned that, it really gave the impression of being some drama play. She double-checked the new bindings on Andres. He showed to be surprisingly compliant. A-okay.
They left Consul Cicero's place, sticking to the more dark streets of the Republic's capital city. Circe reapplied her cloak, and the ambassador was also given one for appearance sake. Igneous was still in guard's armor, with one gladius on his left hip. When they were nearing Curia, the Senate's meeting place, Circe tightened her cloak around her and pulled the cowl up.
As Igneous turned his head to her, he had to do a double take. The space where Circe stood simmered slightly, but for normal eyes it wouldn't make any difference. The cloak that grants invisibility to it's wearer. So that's to be her role. ''Is that made recently?'' He asked the empty air.
Empty to the naked eye to be precise. Soft laughing was heard ahead, or so Igneous presumed. ''It could be.'' Circe's voice sounded a little distorted like this. A hum in the wind.
Now he just hat to wait his cue and the show can start. If the Primus today would make history. This one might as well become chronicled in future scriptures. That is, if someone ever tried approaching the subject in public. 'The things we do...'
Uhh, how do you do good folks! Yea, I'm sure you don't want any excuses, so I won't even try with it. Truth is, I was lazy. Plain and simple. Life goes on and on. Who ever said that writing and inspiration comes easy, hah my sweet ass!
Anyhow, you can expect the eight one whenever, honestly.
Feedback is always appreciated. Many of you are confused and are putting heavy thinky-faces on what to make of this story. Weeeeellll, I'll indulge you some with spoilers, maybe not those you think. Let's rant for a bit.
What makes FT fics popular? Mostly pairings, lemons, lots of kissing, smut, more smut... huh that's a trend of sorts. Well, whatever, I made it abundantly clear when posting this- Life is not fairytail Hiro made it out to be. Sure he went on and made this semi-sappy, and semi-ideal world with... mammary glands. Okay, the guy had a vision, I respect that. And so do I, this is the proof of that. Not to say that there are no good points in FT universe, because there are. Else I wouldn't have any bedrock for the story and a theory to support my claims in the future chaps.
Woah... Out of words here, we're good for now. Welp, see ya next time good people, any questions or thoughts, you know how to gain my attention. Excelsior!
Before I forget, I owe you a translation for the spells. It's a simple Greek mind you.
-Ξύπνα, read as Xýpna, (Waken)
-Διπλό στρώμα: Σφραγίδα, read as Dipló stróma: Sfragída (Double layer: Seal)
The word Aeaea is read as Eëa.