Chapter 23
The evening air was crisp, carrying a whisper of unrest through the rebel camp. Inside his tent, Alan was sharpening his dagger, the blade gleaming ominously under the flickering candlelight. He was looking at the dagger without seeing, his mind rather captured by the happenings that had unfolded the evening before.
"I would even live for him…" a simple sentence, spoken from delicious rosy lips was what he heard again and again inside his head. He felt how his forehead wrinkled in confusion – and that not for the first time this day. A confused look settled onto his face that belied his usual mask of boredom. The act of self-sacrifice, the determination to save, against all odds and at all cost… it was puzzling. Serenity – the silver-haired beauty from Capua… the Domina, the Priestess – whatever she was… she surprised him again and again. He needed to realize that she was more than just a pretty face and a body to desire. She was a blend of purity and courage that intrigued, and stirred something unfamiliar within him.
His deep thoughts were suddenly interrupted when the fabric entrance was abruptly swept aside. Anne stormed in, her face taut with anger, eyes flaring with a mix of fury and betrayal. He had wondered when she would break through the guards he had placed in front of his quarters not to be disturbed.
"Alan!" he cried out with anger and betrayal lacing his name. "What game are you playing?!" Her voice was tight and charged with emotion. "First you spare this Roman slut and her traitor friends" she spat like a wild cat. "And then you hide yourself away for the entire day and will not even let me see you!" This last part she spoke with unmistakable hurt in her voice.
Alan set the dagger down with deliberate slowness, taking his time to collect his thoughts. He turned his head to look at his seething sister, his face cold and indifferent in the face of her tantrum.
"Control yourself, sister" he demanded calmly, but with the hint of a warning in both voice and eyes. "I have my reasons for keeping Serenity alive."
"Serenity!" Anne spat, the silver-haired beauty's name dripping like venom from her lips. "Are you so blinded by a pretty face that you forget who the enemy is?!"
The candle light cast shadows that danced across his strong features and sparkled in his deep brown eyes as he focused on his sister intently.
"She is useful." He finally said pointedly.
"Useful?!" Anne's voice rose with a mixture of malice and mockery, earning another flash of warning to appear on Alan's otherwise calm face. The anger on Anne's face suddenly morphed to something different and a haughty sneer appeared on her red lips.
"Or is it rather than you find her too alluring to dispose of, dear brother?" she taunted with a wicked smile, but her eyes shone bright with jealousy. "I see how you look at her, brother" she continued sharply. "I now know why you so desperately wanted to return to this damn place Capua. It was all because of her. You are risking everything for your personal desires!"
Alan's stance was unyielding, his eyes narrowed to dangerous slits.
"It is not about desire." he growled, earning a dismissive snort from Anne.
"It's not, Anne." He insisted strongly.
He turned to the small table nearby and poured himself a goblet of rich red wine. He took a moment to observe the emblem that was stamped in the goblet in his hand. It stemmed from the House of Tadius, Serenity's home that he had brutally attacked with all the might and power of the rebel's force. After some more moments of tensed silence, he elegantly turned back around and raised the goblet as if for a toast, looking his sister straight in the eyes.
"It's about strategy." He continued with a crooked smile on his lips. "Serenity has ties to the Roman elite knowledge we need. Also, you have seen our peoples' reaction yesterday. She has something that can sway many to our cause."
Anne was pacing, her frustration palpable.
"And what of our loyalty? Your people trust you to lead, not fall prey to distraction, especially to this of a Roman cunt!"
"Enough!" Alan's voice snapped like a whip through the thick air, his patience now reaching its straining point.
He stepped closed to Anne, his presence dominating. Anne lifted her chin high in defiance, and he couldn't help but admire her for this. Much stronger men would have already shivered under his intense gaze, his powerful presence reducing them to a pitiful and shivering heap of despair. But not his sister – and the thought filled him with pride. She had endured much worse things under the Roman hand that her brother's wrath.
And yet, she needed to know her place and stop defying his leadership and question his authority whenever her emotions ran wild.
"I lead as I see fit, Anne." He growled darkly, his face only inched away from hers. "Don't question my decisions. If you hadn't been so blinded by your hatred and jeaoulsy for this woman, you would have realized the truth yesterday. Serenity's death would have been a waste – worse even: it could have destroyed everything we have built with nothing but a silvery dagger used at the wrong time. Her life however…" he softened his gaze a little and let his index finger gently trace along Anne's jawline. "Her life can be a powerful tool." He whispered. "She is a symbol, Anne. One that cannot only inspire just our followers, but also plant the seed of dissent among our enemies."
Something changed within Anne's gaze. She grabbed her brother's hand with hers and lifted the other to cradle his cheek.
"But at what cost?" she retorted, her voice barely above a whisper. He could see tears at the corner of her eyes, vulnerability that only he had always been allowed to see.
"You are changing, Alan. This woman…" her eyes and voice filled again with disgust and accusation. "She is weaving a spell over you. She is Roman, perhaps not by blood, but this does not change anything. Have you forgotten what they have done to us?"
Alan's cool demeanor crumbled for a moment when a past long ago emerged back in his memory in the form of cruel pictures. He slightly shook his head, trying to dispel the dreadful scenes that were forming in his mind. His gaze focused back onto his sister, his heart clenching painfully in his chest as he watched her endure similar memories.
He put the goblet aside to take her face into both hands. He leant in closer until their foreheads touched and he closed his eyes.
"I know what I'm doing." He whispered. "I am the same man that led you through fire and blood. Trust me to know an asset from a liability."
They opened their eyes and looked at each other for a long moment.
"I trust you." She finally said, but an ocean of concern filled her gaze. "But we wary. Emotions make us vulnerable."
Alan smiled thinly, a predatory glint in his eyes as he placed a chaste kiss onto her lips.
"Worry not, sister-mine." He said. "I'm always in control."
He stepped away from her, taking the goblet from the table and took a long, deliberate sip. Anne watched him warily through narrowed eyes. Her gaze hardened again, the mask of fierceness and burning hatred replacing the vulnerability that was there only moments ago.
"Just be sure it's you who remains in control, not her. Because if you slip, if you falter… it won't just be you who pays the price."
"Trust me." He repeated with a smirk. "Should she or anybody else pose a real threat, I'll be the first to deal with it. Mercilessly."
Alan held his gaze for a long moment, searching his face for any signs of doubt or pretense, until she nodded stiffly and stepped back.
"And if you ate too bewitched to act, I will." She vowed darkly. "For the cause, Alan. Don't forget that."
With that, she excited as quickly as she had entered, leaving Alan to tis deep thoughts. Left alone, Alan sat back down, picking his dagger back up and ran a tanned finger along the sharp edge thoughtfully. The risk was high, he knew that. But also the stakes.
Serenity was a tool, and he a skilled craftsman. He needed to learn more about her to know how to use her effectively for the cause. He felt there was still much he did not know, still much to be revealed and to be considered. Alan moved his gaze back to where Anne had just left. He watched how the fabric danced with the cool evening breeze, and suddenly he felt a surge of anticipation mixed with dangerous thrill jolt through his body.
A smirk formed on his lips. This game they were playing was deadly, and he was more than ready to win.
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The darkly lit chamber was filled with an oppressive silence, broken only by the faint sound of labored breathing. His eyelids twitched. The air was thick around him, filled with the scent of herbs and damp stone.
"Diamond!" a scream pierced through his foggy mind. "NO!"
A faint whisper of silver and red flashed before his closed eyes. A picture formed and unformed. A haughty laughter rang like a sinister spell through the shadows of his memory.
Steel. Blood. Chaos. Death.
The faint smell of mud and blood suddenly lingered in the air, a memory that threatened to overpower the scents of herbs and stone. A groan pierced the suffocating silence.
Who was that, he wondered.
"Easy" a voice spindled in the distance. "Take your time, boy."
More voices surrounded him, but couldn't understand what they were saying. The overwhelming darkness reached out her cold hand again, threating to pull him back to where he had just emerged. And with darkness, the nauseating scent of burnt flesh, pictures of indigo eyes full of betrayal and desperation, as well as the dreadful sounds of terror came. No – he didn't want to go back there, to this place of horror and guilt.
Something cool suddenly touched his lower lip. It felt foreign against his broken, dry skin. Liquid entered his mouth. He faintly realized that it was hot and burnt its way down his hoarse throat. He felt as if we was drowning – no air, no escape. Out of instinct, he gasped for air, but something caught in his throat. He coughed violently, trying to fill his lungs with much needed air.
He felt how slender but firm hands pushed his body upwards. He sputtered and wheezed, his hurting throat feeling like liquid fire. Someone helped him lie back again while he still panted heavily.
"Resist the darkness for now." The cool voice sounded. "Let my voice guide you to the realm of the living."
There was no gentleness in this strange voice, he faintly realized as he danced on the threshold of consciousness. It was a command that left no room for objection. Blue eyes fluttered open and squeezed shut again against the dim light that filled the room. He realized how strongly the herbs lingered around him, how thick and suffocating the air was. He moved his body slowly, but a stinging pain suddenly surged through his torso, making him groan. It was only then that he realized that it had been his own groan that he had heard earlier.
"Come now." The voice urged, a hint of impatience sharpening the request.
The young man finally willed his eyes to open. Slowly, oh so slowly did his eyes regain clarity. He scanned his surrounding with blurry, tired eyes. He lay on a simple cot, and his body was wrapped in cool bandages that barely concealed the deep wounds on his body. The flickering light from a single oil lamp cast eerie shadows on the stony walls around him. As clarity seeped back into his mind, he noticed a shadowy, cloaked figure seated beside him shrouded in darkness except for the faint glimmer of eyes that seemed to pierce through the gloom.
"You are finally awake." The figure spoke softly, his voice like a serpent's whisper. "Do you remember your name, boy?"
The young man squinted, trying to make out the man's features, but pain and confusion clouded his vision.
"Saphir" he man rasped in a voice that hadn't been in use for quite some time and sounded strange to his own ears.
"Body slave to Dominus Diamond from Capua." He added with a hint of pride in his weak voice.
A dark chuckle was rumbled through the other man.
"Good. Still loyal as I see." The man said.
"Who are you?" Saphir's voice was a hoarse growl. "Why are you hiding your face?!"
"I am a friend." The figure whispered, his voice smooth and eerily calm in the heavy air. "You have suffered greatly, boy. I am here to offer some respire, and perhaps, to help you find clarity in your vengeance. I came as I seek justice, like you do. But first, I need to know what happened in the night of the attack when the life was taken from your Dominus. What transpired? Who is to blame for the horrors you endured?"
Struggling with the pain, Saphir's expression darkened as memories of the fateful night flooded his mind. Memories of Serenity's interactions with Diamond and Endymion seeped into his thoughts, his resentment growing. Yet, he hesitated, wary of revealing too much to a stranger.
The other man senses Saphir's resistance and distrust. Therefore, he continued with a soft voice, almost a whisper, as if he was about to share a well-kept secret that was only for Saphir to hear.
"I am a servant of powerful forces." He revealed darkly from beneath his thick grey cloak. "Forces that desire balance and retribution. You, boy … you hold critical knowledge that could alter the course of fate."
"Nemesis?" Saphir rasped with wide eyes and a sudden eagerness painted his voice. "Has Nemesis sent you?"
The figure let out another dark chuckle and nodded.
"The great Goddess of Revenge is indeed my patron, but not the only Deity that I serve and guide my actions."
Saphir nodded his head slowly in understanding and turned his gaze to look at his bruised hands. His eyes clouded with memories and pain.
"Diamond made Her our patron when his father was murdered." He spoke softly. "To fuel the heart of gladiators and others from the House of Tadius to avenge his father's death."
There was a long beat of silence filling the room. The memories, the pain slowly faded from Saphir's eyes as he turned his head to look back at the strange man next to him.
"And did She come to you, boy?" the other man asked, a hint of mockery tainting his words. "Did She bring you to justice for your deeds?"
Saphir's eyes widened in shock at the words, his dry mouth falling slightly open.
"I … I don't know…" he stuttered helplessly, but was immediately stopped when the cloaked man raised one hand to interrupt him before he could speak further.
"Our time is limited, boy." The man said sharply. "I have no time to listen to denials of truths that have already been revealed. As mentioned, the purpose of my visit is of a different and more important nature. I have no interest to further speak about your dark deeds."
Spahir swallowed hard, his mind clouded with fear and confusion that this man knew about his darkest secret.
"Tell me about the night of the attack." The figure repeated calmly.
Saphir slowly nodded his head in agreement, his forehead wrinkling as he forced his mind to remember.
"We were all on the training grounds when it happened." He started slowly. "The rebel leader suddenly appeared out of nowhere on the balcony." Saphir shook his head, closing his eyes shut as he searched his mind for what had happened next. "It was the Gaul – a man who was supposed to be dead, but who had somehow escaped the executions many moons ago. He jumped over the balcony and laded a few feet away from me. He taunted and laughed at us, and then the doors that led to the cells flung open and more rebels stormed inside the training ground. I … I fought against one of the, trying to protect Diamond from harm. But this rebel was too strong, too furious. I stood no chance."
Saphir stopped and took in a deep breath as he remembered how the rebel punched the hot iron directly into Saphir's body, deep into his torso. Tears prickled in the corners of his eyes as his last memory surfaced.
"It was quick." He continued with a broken, shivering voice. "We had no chance against their wrath. I did not see it, but I heard how … how …"
He let out a shuddering breath. He felt as if someone squeezed his pipe, making it harder and harder for him to breathe.
"The rebel leader killed Diamond." He finally said, his blue eyes an ocean of despair and hurt. He taunted him and made him fight against him even though Diamond had already been heavily injured. The others watched and laughed."
He closed his eyes against the pain and the memory.
"It was quick." He repeated in a whisper.
A long beat of silence stretched out between them.
"Tragic." The figure finally commented coldly, making Saphir look back up, surprised by the tone that was so void of any emotion. "Alas, this is not what I came here to hear about."
Saphir knitted his forehead in confusion.
"I don't know what else…" he began slowly, his eyes narrowed in suspicion.
"Let me explain." The man was quick to interrupt, and Saphir felt as if an amused smile played around the figure's hidden lips.
"For one…" he figure said and raised his hand to count with his fingers.
Saphir couldn't help but shudder at the sight. The man's fingers were long and strangely thin, bending unnaturally like twisted braches of a withered tree. The skin was almost transparent, stretched taut over protruding boney with a network of blue veins visible beneath, pulsing slowly. The nails were long and curved, yellow in color.
"Why was it so easy for the rebels to break into the Ludus?" the man continued, forcing Saphir's attention to focus back on him. "I would assume that Diamond was clever enough to place guards around the Ludus for protection after what had happened during the first rebel attack."
Silence followed which was broken by a load gulp from Saphir. His throat felt strangely dry.
"We were all summoned." He finally replied shortly. "To the training grounds."
"Ah…" the other man drawled slowly. "And why was this, I wonder? Diamond was a clever man. What could have been important enough for him to forget about the rebels and Serenity's protection I wonder?"
Saphir couldn't help the sharp intake of breath at hearing Diamond's sister's name fall from the stranger's lips, neither could he hide the look of burning hatred and disdain that briefly flashed inside his eyes.
"Interesting…" he heard the man mumble, followed by another dark chuckle. "Loyal to the Dominus, but not your Domina?"
"Domina, you say!" Saphir taunted bleakly. "Serenity…" he spat her name in disgust. "She is nohing but a curse that befalls on everybody who is entangled with her."
He looked up to see straight into the dark void where the man's face was hidden.
"She is downfall – she is at the heart of my loss. If not for her, nothing of this would have happened."
He cast his eyes downwards again, looking intently at this hands as he added with a whisper: "If not for her, Diamond would still be alive."
The figure next to him stirred, sitting a little bit more upright. Saphir would sense from the sudden change of posture that he had said something of great interest for the other man that had sparked his interest.
"It is said that they found corpses nailed to crosses lined up in the training ground." The man whispered darkly after a pause. "Five in total. It is said that Diamond was nailed to the cross in front row for everybody to see first the moment they would enter the training ground."
Saphir quickly squeezed his eyes shut from pain, shaking his head violently to dispel the dark ad horrifying images that threatened to emerge.
"Stop" he rasped helplessly, pleading weakly. He didn't want to heart more. The Gods had enough mercy with him that evening that he didn't have to watch how Diamond had died, had only heard it through a fog of dizziness and pain. But this alone had been traumatic enough. He didn't want to hear more about how his beloved Dominus… his friend who was like a brother to him… had died.
"I wonder how the rebels managed to bring the crosses to the villa…" the man continued mercilessly, ignoring Saphir's plea. "… and for what purpose. The seems to be rather…" he whirled his gruesome hand elegantly though the air. "… unusual I would say."
Saphir felt his intent gaze on him, closely observing his every reaction.
"It is also said that they found chains on two poles, as well as a bloodied whip. It was as if someone had been punished that night, they say."
Saphir warily opened his eyes. He eyed the figure cautiously, his mind racing.
"And if I tell you everything, what will I get in return?" he asked slowly. "Can you guarantee that justice will be served?"
The man cocked his hooded head in interest.
"The Gods of Vengeance are ever watchful, and they offer their ear and power to those who are brave enough to reveal the truth."
His voice was soothing yet laced with an underlying menace.
"They want for you to become their tool in this world, Saphir. Will you serve them, boy, and through them let justice rain hotly onto this earth and burn those who have wronged your Dominus?"
The young man contemplated for a moment before he gave a short, determined nod.
"What must I do?" Saphir asked sharply, his blue eyes gleaming with intent.
The figure nodded in satisfaction.
"Tell me what happened that night and see how Nemesis will strike down Her enemies."
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The interior of the tent Serenity had been brought to was dimly lit. She had been brought her two days ago, right after she had almost faced death – either by the hands of the rebels or her own. The furnishment inside were sparse, reminding her of her current status in the camp as a captive, not a guest. She sat on the edge of a hard cot, her small hands tightly clasped together, and her mind was a heavy storm of anxiety and fear. Not for the first time I these two days did Serenity have the feeling that the fabric walls around her seemed to be closing around her with each passing moment. The soft glow of a single lantern cast shadows across the canvas wall and appeared to be the only distraction from her grim and fearful thoughts.
The shadows and … Haruka, she thought with a small smile plying around the curve of her lips despite the dreadful situation she was finding herself in. Serenity's eyes flickered to the opposite side of the tent where Haruka was bent over a make-shift table, looking intently at some piece of parchment in front of her. Her blonde hair fell into her face, covering the upper part of her face. But Serenity knew what was beneath: sparkling green eyes that seemed lost in thought as she contemplated about whatever she was just reading. Serenity cocked her head a little to the side as she watched the blonde rebel with a mix of curiosity and admiration.
Since the evening of the execution – no, even before that when Serenity had lost all hope and her will to live, Haruka had emerged as an unexpected light of kindness in an ocean of despair and threat. Haruka was confident and strong like no other woman Serenity has ever encountered, with strong presence that demanded attention whenever she would enter a room or voice her thoughts. Her tall, athletic body always moved with purpose and grace, ready to srike quickly and deadly when needed. Her green eyes were sparkling and observant, always watchful and with a hint of suspicion, and Serenity had soon realized that there was absolutely nothing that went unnoticed under this intent, probing gaze. Haruka's expression might most of the time be stern and serious, but Serenity had also detected the subtle softness, especially when her guard was down whenever she sought Serenity's company. And she had been with Serenity often during these past two days, barely leaving the silver-haired beauty's side. Haruka had gruffly explained it was because to keep an eye on Serenity and to prevent her from doing something stupid, but Serenity knew deep down in her fluttering heart that Haruka had decided to stay close by not only to keep an eye on her, but first and foremost to keep her safe and well-protected among an ocean of enemies. She trusted Haruka, without even knowing her too well, and she felt save around her. She knew, just knew and believed with every fiber of her being that the blonde would never harm her.
"You are staring again, kitten." Haruka suddenly chided, but did not look up from her intent reading.
Serenity's cheeks turned a rosy color, and she immediately averted her eyes to look back at her hands.
"I'm sorry." she said sheepishly and shrugged her slender shoulders. "It's just…"
"I know" she interrupted her with a heavy, exhausted sigh. She leant back in her chair, bringing her fingers to her face to knead the bridge of her nose gently, eyes closed. "You fear for your beloved Endymion and your friends' well-being." she said tiredly as if she had the same thing hundreds of times over the past days. "And you grow restless because Alan has yet to summon you. Plus…" Haruka made a theatrical, pointed pause there, and finally gazed to where the silver-haired woman was sitting. "My exquisite company bores you by now, and you yearn for a less dry companion to spend your days with."
They had led this conversation now several times over the past days.
"You are making fun of me." Serenity whispered sadly.
Haruka's stern expression softened a little. She let out another heavy sigh.
"I'm not." She finally said with honesty. "I just wished you finally learnt how to be a little bit more patient, kitten."
"More patient…" Serenity scoffed with barely contained frustration in her voice. "It's been two days now, Haruka." Serenity whispered, her voice low and strained. "Two days and not a word from Alan or anyone about Endymion. I don't even know if he is still alive."
Haruka watched her from across the small space, her expression unreadable, yet her eyes betrayed a flicker of sympathy. She leaned against the wooden chair, arms and legs crossed as she thought about her response. She sighed again, faintly realizing that she hadn't sighed that often in her entire life like she had sighed these past two days, before she got up and moved to the small cot where Serenity was sitting. She knelt down beside her and covered her pale hand with hers. The contact made Serenity look up.
"How often do I need to tell you this, kitten?" Haruka chided softly, but there was no malice in her words. "Alan keeps his plans close. But he is a man of his word. If he promised safety for your friends, he'll keep it."
Serenity cocked her head a little to the side, her crystal blue eyes searching Haruka's face for any sign of deceit or doubt.
"And what about me?" she asked hoarsely, tears now glistering in the corners of her eyes. "What will he ask of me in return? I agreed to help him, but I fear of what else this might entail."
A short sting made Haruka's heart throb with guilt. What else, indeed? It was a question she had found herself asking as well several times since the beauty had struck the deal with the rebel leader. It was the reason why Haruka was here, in this tent together with the silver-haired beauty. She had told herself and others that she wanted to make sure that Serenity would not escape, If she was true to herself, however, her reasons were much more noble and at the same time more futile. If Alan really wanted to make Serenity his slave in any disturbing way possible, there would only be little that Haruka could do to prevent this. Serenity's eyes widened slightly as if she had just looked straight into Haruka's mind and heart, seeing pictures there that promised of a fate that was worse than death. She hurriedly closed her eyes shut and turned her head away.
"The price we need to pay for love." Haruka heard her whisper, the voice strangely hollow.
Haruka pressed her lips to a thin line, her mind running as she tried to think of words of reassurance.
"Alan is a man of purpose." She finally said, squeezing Serenity's hand reassuringly. "He is a man driven by emotion and desire, there is no need to deny this. But he has been following just one single goal feverishly ever since I've met him – and this with all his mind and heart. And this is the downfall of our oppressors – of the Roman Empire."
Serenity looked at her warily, not sure how this could save her from the fate that was looking darkly above her.
"He could have killed you with ease the other night, or even easier, could have simply let you kill yourself." She added with a hint of accusation painting her words. "Or could have someone else kill you at any moment ever since. He could have also summoned you right on that fateful night to fulfill his twisted and darkest wishes and desires. The point is: he didn't. Quite surprisingly to be honest – and at the same time it isn't when you know Alan as good as I do know him. The night of the executions changed his view on you, kitten. He realized that you are more than just an object of desire, but that we can leverage you to his advantage. The crowd, the rebels did not only react differently to what he had expected, but their reaction and your unique story has opened a path of potential influence for him that he had not anticipated in his wildest dreams. He is an intelligent man, Serenity. One who lives and dies for the purpose, the one purpose that has brought us to where we stand today. I have no doubt that he has been trying to figure out which next move to take with you. And I'm sure when the time comes and he summons you, your pretty face will not be the main reason for it. Remember: he is a strategist and a man who needs the crowd to be successful. Don't make the mistake to see him just as a wildling driving by desire."
Serenity cocked her head in interest as she looked into the other woman's green eyes that were suddenly shone with an excited gleam.
"You admire him." Serenity finally said matter-of-factly.
A shadow passed over Haruka's face, her usual stoicism flickering. It took a moment before she replied.
"I believe in what he is… what all of us are fighting for, even though I don't agree with every decision Alan is making." She said slowly, determinedly – each word carefully chosen with intent and purpose. "I've seen too much suffering, too much injustice in this world, kitten." She continued softly. "If there is just the slightest chance to change that, I have to take it. Even if the path is fraught with challenges."
"And blood?" Serenity challenged weakly with tears in her eyes.
Haruka smirked at that and nodded.
"Roman blood." She correctly lightly, the cool façade back on her face.
She abruptly stood, waving a hand dismissively at Serenity who had already opened her mouth to argue further.
"Enough now, kitten." She said and shook her head in light warning. "Let's not drown in this tiresome discussion again."
Serenity narrowed her eyes in defiance, not quite ready to give in so easily.
"… when there is much more happier things to turn your attention to."
Serenity's forehead wrinkled in confusion at the other woman's words. Haruka's eyes dance in amusement and she chuckled lightly. She simply nodded her head towards fabric entrance of the tent. Serenity's eyes widened in shocked disbelief as she saw who was standing there. A high-pitched squeal escaped her when she jumped from the cot with a speed of a cat and flung herself into the awaiting arms of Luna, Mina and Lita. Haruka watched with fascination from the other side of the small space how the four women clung to each other, how they laughed and cried as they embraced tightly. How they touched each other as if they wanted to make sure that this was not a dream, and that they were all really together again.
"Serenity…" Kuna, the elder of them sobbed as she pressed the girl against her form, petting her long hair with the gentleness of a mother.
"I don't understand." Serenity half laughed, half sobbed as she looked at her friends.
"You didn't think we would just leave you here, did you?" Mina, the blonde chided playfully with a bell-like laughter.
"It takes more than a flimsy tent to keep us from you." The tall brown-haired Greek, Lita, added with stormy green eyes and a determination on her face that left no doubt who far she would have gone to find her former Domina.
"Your friends were quite… persistent I must say. Annoying even." Haruka sighed and rolled her eyes. All women turned around to face her. She had her arms crossed in front of her chest and leant leisurely against a wooden pole, observing the scene in front of her with mild interest.
Serenity shook her head anew, still clinging to Luna's body like a drowning woman.
"Haruka kindly allowed us to visit you." Luna explained gently, her gaze full of gratitude and unshed tears as her gaze settled onto the blonde in the back.
Haruka shifted uncomfortably under Luna's intense gaze and cleared her thought.
"I had a feeling you slowly grow tired from my company." She said with another dismissive shrug of her shoulders.
Serenity stared at her with warmth and gratitude. "Haruka…" she whispered the other woman's name with tenderness that made a pleasant shiver to run down Haruka's spine. Before Serenity could continue, however, Haruka once again brushed her unspoked words away with a swift motion of her right hand.
"Don't think too much of this gesture." She spoke with a rough edge in her voice and a stern expression on her face. "I, too, have become tired of your constant inquiries. You have 15 minutes."
With that, she strode determinedly towards the tent's entrance, avoiding the silver-haired woman's gaze. She had almost made her way out, when soft and slender fingers suddenly closed around her hand, making her stop in motion. Haruka stared at the two joint hands before she gazed up, green locking with crystal blue.
"Thank you." Serenity whispered with a smile that could have easily illuminated the darkest corner of the Orcus. Haruka stared at her for a moment longer before she left out a soft sigh and squeezed Serenity's hand briefly in acknowledgment.
"Just don't do something stupid, kitten. There is no way to escape this camp alive." She whispered, her green eyes serious. Serenity nodded. Haruka looked back to where Luna was standing.
"15 minutes." And with that, she left the tent.
"I can't believe you are unharmed!" Mina exclaimed and threw her arms around Serenity's neck.
Serenity smiled into the embrace and took a deep breath. Mina's hugs had always had a power of their own. They were filled with warmth and love, making you forget any worry or fear that might cloud the heart,
"We feared the worst after…" Mina paused there a moment, her blue eyes swimming in tears. "… after this dreadful night and the nights that followed."
"We tried to find you when they took us from the villa." Lita growled. She had her back turned to them, her body stiff as she was facing the tent entrance and peered through the small opening outside. Always watchful, always protecting. "But these bastards kept you well-hidden. And we were under close guard as well. This lunatic Anne and her minions never seemed to let us out of sight for too long."
"And yet you are here," Serenity smiled, tears of joy running down her face. "I cannot tell you how worried I was for all of you."
"You? Worried?" Lita let out a surprised, joyless laugh of disbelief. She briefly turned around to stare at her friend. "Here she is: a Roma Domina among rebels, getting herself almost killed more often than I can count in just a few days and she says she is the one who his worried about us."
Serenity couldn't help but laugh at that. It felt so strange. Not too long ago, there hadn't been a single day in which she hadn't smiled or laughed. Now the movement felt so foreign on her lips. But it managed to clear some of the heavy clouds that were shrouding her heart.
"Most of the rebels no longer see you as a Roman Domina." Luna chimed in as she led Serenity to sit with her on the small cot. "Artemis has been talking to some rebels from the North, sharing your story and background in more details. Even though the rebels are all very suspicious of us, they listened and believed his words. They seem to be an influential group among the rebels, and now wherever you go, you can hear whispers about the Priestess of Selene, not the Domina."
Serenity nodded her head in understanding. "I will never forget what Artemis did for me this night." She vowed, clasping Luna's hand more tightly with hers. "What all of you did! Malachite, Nephrite, Zoisite… you all saved my life! Are they all save?"
Mina nodded her head, a shiny smile immediately appearing on her face at the mentioning of the undefeated Celt's name. "Grumpy and gloomy as ever –all of them. Haruka did not allow them to come see you." She explained. "I guess she feared for a stormy rescue mission when the best gladiators Rome has ever seen would be granted to see their imprisoned Domina. But they, too, seek for people from their homelands and speak about us and our story."
Serenity let out a relived breath she didn't know she had been holding, another smile pulling at her lips. Luna watched her intently. The High Priestess cocked her head slightly to the side, a sad smile appearing as she looked at the silver-haired beauty that was like a daughter to her.
"Time is scarce, child." She finally said softly. "Won't you ask the question that is truly pulling at your heart's strings?"
Serenity bit her lip, averting her eyes as she looked at Luna's and her joint hands.
"I'm afraid of what else you might have to share." She admitted, her voice trembling and barely above a whisper.
Luna squeezed her hand tightly. "Fret not, my child." She implored gently. "Endymion is alive and well-cared for. Artemis is the only one allowed to see him. His body and mind are still healing, but I'm sure he will soon be well enough, eager to find and rescue you."
Serenity felt how her heart fluttered excitedly against her chest, the weight of a world of sorrow and fear lifting from it.
"He is alive?" she breathed hoarsely. "Glory to Selene."
"Glory to Selene." Luna repeated with a smile.
A scoff was heard from the tent's entrance, making everybody look at Lita. She proud Greek had her arms crossed in front of her chest, her lips set to a firm line.
"Let's see if she will let him look for Serenity." She huffed.
Serenity shook her head in confusion.
"She?" the silver-haired beauty repeated slowly. "Who is she?"
There was a long beat of silence before Mina answered. Her face was unusual cold, absent of any warmth as a name dropped from her lips with barely hidden disdain.
"Raye."
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Pearls of sweat lingered on his burning forehead as he let himself fall back against the soft pillows of his cot.
"She and that gladiator from Thrace…" he concluded his story, his voice strained from exhaustion. "…they brought this upon us. It's because of them… no … her that Diamond was distracted, that he couldn't see the danger coming. Even though she did not lead the sword that killed him, she is as guilty as those who struck him down that night." Saphir's gaze darkened even further with hatred. "She needs to pay" he vowed darkly. "Serenity has to pay for what she has done to Diamond… to all of us."
The world was starting to blur around him. He closed his eyes against the dizziness. He had shared everything with the cloaked man next to him… from how he had witnessed how Diamond had found himself more and more entangled in his sister's web of deceit and betrayal. How he had relentlessly tried to support his Dominus in his pursuit to gain glory beyond the shadows of his father and the Ludus, but how Diamond's obsession for Serenity and to be close to her had always led him astray. He had told him about the hope that had flown through his system when Preator Seiya had tried to snatch her away, had shared about how Endymion had wormed his way into Diamond's heart, wangling his trust as he pointed out the parallels of his own relationship to his sister. How Diamond had suddenly trusted this good-for-nothing gladiator – even more than he had trusted Saphir – how his sister and this man from Thrace had betrayed Diamond's trust as they had been fucking each other since the very beginning, ultimately breaking his Dominus' heart. Saphir had shared with an evil smile on his lips how he had revealed their deceit, how he had needed to inflect in Diamond's heart so that he would finally see the ugly truth behind pretty masks of lie. Saphir had laughed with pleasure when she told the other man how he had convinced Diamond to punish Serenity by taking everything away from her that she held dear, killing not only her lover but also her friends and everybody who was involved in the deceit. How he had finally regained Diamond's trust in his darkest hour of despair – how Diamond had finally seen that there had always been only one loyal friend by his side. A friend who was not afraid to dirty his hands if needed if it only meant for Diamond to thrive. He had smiled contently as he remembered how he had delivered blow after blow, whipping Endymion until he was unconscious, Saphir enjoying every bit of it. He had enjoyed the look of horror on Serenity's face as she had to watch how her life slowly slipped from her lover's body.
He had shared how Diamond had made him suddenly stop the punishment. How the rebels had attacked. How Alan had used Serenity so that Diamond would fight an unjust fight against the rebel leader that led to his death.
Saphir breathed heavily, his eyes firmly closed. The man next to him has closely listened to every word, every story that Saphir had shared. He had let Saphir speak without questions, without any form of interruption – quietly observing and taking in void of any emotion.
"You have endured much." The man finally spoke in a low and steady tone. "Your knowledge is to prevent further damage."
Saphir's lids where heavy from exhaustion, but he forced himself to focus on the man next to him and the words he said.
"Will you keep your promise?" Saphir asked weakly, but the hatred for those responsible for Diamond's death burnt fiercely in his blue eyes. "Will Nemesis see that justice is done?"
"Oh yes." The man was quick to reassure, followed by a sinister chuckle that vibrated from the depths of his hood. "Justice will be served to those who deserve it."
Saphir couldn't help the cold shudder that went through is body.
"Even more…" he heard the figure continue, almost solemnly. Saphir faintly realized through the corners of his eyes how the man produced something small from the depths of his cloak. "Together, boy, we ensure that Rome remains strong. The Gods thank you for your sacrifice – know that it will not be in vain."
"My… my sacrifice?" Saphir croaked, his voice tense.
Before Saphir could muster any strength to resist, he felt how the man suddenly pressed a vial to his lips with unexpected strength, forcing the liquid down his throat. The taste was bitter, burning like fire as it slid down his throat, searing his insides. He coughed, choking on the poison, his eyes widening in panic as the reality of the situation set in.
"Why?" he breathed in a raspy voice.
The man watched with detached curiosity as Saphir's body convulsed, the poison working its way through his system with brutal efficiency.
"As mentioned…" the man said calmly through Saphir's death struggle. "To ensure Rome remains strong. You see, the knowledge you hold might weaken Seiya… distract him from his duty for the Empire. And we cannot afford such distractions now, can we?"
He leaned back against the chair he was sitting on, watching calmly as he added with a slightly sharper edge: "And for justice… just as you wished."
Saphir felt how a heavy numbness replaced the burning pain, spreading through his limbs. His eyes grew heavy by the moment, and he watched how the figure's form blurred into the darkness. His final thoughts where a swirl of vengeance and sorrow.
The man watched silently as Saphir's breathing evened out.
"For love and glory." He whispered into the quietness of the room that now harbored secrets cloaked by death itself as long as they needed to. "For justice and revenge."
With his task complete, the cloaked figure faded back into the shadows from which he had emerged, leaving behind a quiet finality. Schemed could now continue to be set in motion, and above all, a personal debt had been paid in full, a score settled in the shadows.
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The sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden hue over the bustling streets of Rome where the air was thick with the scent of incense and the sound of jubilant cheers and trumpets. The people lined the cobblestone roads, their faces alight with anticipation, eager to catch a glimpse of their victorious Consul. The golden rays were illuminating the Via Triumphalis, and flags with the Consul's emblem – a flaming sword with a flame-enshrouded blade that symbolized the Consul's military might as well the burning passion the Consul had for her goals – were fluttering in the warm breeze.
As the procession approached, the crowd erupted into a thunderous roar. Galaxia, resplendent in her shining armor, rode at the front, seated regally upon a magnificent white stallion, its mane flowing like silk. Her golden armor gleamed like the sun itself, each piece intricately designed, reflecting her status as warrior of unmatched strength. Her breastplate was emblazoned with ancient symbols, signifying her authority and divine favor. Her long, golden hair was tied up, elegantly enclosed by tiara-like crest. Her gauntlets and boots were similar adorned like the rest, completing the armor that seemed both regal and battle-ready. A smirk played around her ruby lips, and her piercing gaze commanded both respect and admiration as she passed the crowd.
Behind her, a contingent of soldiers marched in perfect formation, their weapons glinting with the promise of strength. The sounds of drum echoed in the background, beating in time with the collective heartbeat of the crowed – a rhythmic celebration of her hard-won victories.
In the grand entrance hall of the Senate that was the glorious finishing point of the triumphal procession, positioned high and might above the streets of Rome, stood Seiya with his brothers among the members of the Senate. Their clapping was polite, their smiles tight, as they watched the celebration with a mix of admiration and reservation. Seiya's jaw was set, a determined glint in his eyes, while Taiki's brow furrowed with apprehension. Yaten, leaning casually against the marble pillars, observed the celebration with what seemed detached interest.
"Look at her." Taiki remarked, watching as Galaxia's presence illuminated the square. "The people adore her. It's as if she's a goddess returned from battle."
Seiya nodded, his focus unwavering. "A goddess, yes, but one whose power comes at a cost."
"Her victories are Rome's strength." Taiki observed quietly, his eyes continuously tracking Galaxia's approach.
"Yet, every triumph she claims seems to distance her further from those she protects." Seiya was quick to argue.
Taiki cocked his head a little, his brows furrowed in deep thought.
"Her victories have fortified our boarders once more." He finally murmured, clapping softly, though his eyes flickered to Seiya with a hint of concern.
Seiya felt how Yaten placed his hand on his right shoulder from behind, squeezing tightly. "Concerned that her rising start might cast a long shadow, especially for those who have had to make … compromises, dear brother?"
Seiya turned around to look at him. Yaten's intent gaze was pointed, a reminder of Seiya's recent preoccupation away from his duties on the eastern borders. With a swift movement, his freed himself from Yaten's touch, his sparkling blue eyes refocusing on the celebration. His jaw tightened as he watched Galaxia dismount with the poise of a seasoned leader. Silver flashed before his mind's eye, making his heart clench painfully in his chest. He knew that his pursuit of Serenity had led him to neglect his military responsibilities, a fact that had surely not gone unnoticed by the Consul.
As Galaxia approached the Senate, her eyes scanned the crowd, recognizing the faces of her supporters and the murmurs of those who whispered behind her back. With a wave of her hand, she signaled to her soldiers, who parted to create a path through the throngs of people. The cheers grew louder, echoing off the ancient stone buildings, reverating through the hearts of the citizens of Rome. Her boots stroke the ground with purpose as she ascended the steps leading to the grand entrance of the Senate hall. Her eyes that reminded of the color of liquid amber gleamed with satisfaction as she felt all eyes of Rome focused on her.
As Galaxia addressed the crowd, her voice resonant and assured, Seiya felt a pang of apprehension.
"People of Rome!" she declared, her tone imbued with the strength of her convictions. "Today, we celebrate our victories! Mars and Jupiter blessed us on the battlefield! Our enemies of the great city have been vanquished, and peace returns to the lands of our southern boarders!"
The crowd erupted into wild applause, their voices calling out her name, merging into a symphony of loyalty and gratitude. Seiya watched intently, nothing the way her words stirred the emotions of the people. He knew about the power and danger words held.
"However…" her voice carrying over the crowd like a clarion call. "…this victory is just a stepping stone towards greater security and prosperity for our Empire. As you protector, I vow to pursue our enemies relentlessly and mercilessly and uphold the might of Rome across all of our territories! Let Sol Invictus guide me through the shadows and Jupiter strengthen my will and sword until this oath is fulfilled!"
The noise from the crowd was deafening, their enthusiasm palpable. Galaxia smiled as she scanned the people of Rome who celebrated her like the victories Goddess that she was. She slightly turned, her smile morphing into a smirk as she observed the Senate's reaction. The applause from all of these old, chubby and overly jovial men was tempered, reflecting a more reserved reaction to her assertive promise.
"Victory is a fleeting moment." Seiya murmured to his brothers. "And in its shadows of power, treachery grows."
Galaxia's golden eyes gleamed with victory as she was adorned with the laurel wreath, and she couldn't help but look back at the rows of Senators with a triumphant smirk on her lips before she once again turned towards the cheering crowd to bask in the adoration of her people. She was aware of the shadows that were gathering at the edges of her triumph. The wheels of fate were turning, and she knew that near and far, enemies to Rome were already plotting their next move. But for now, in this moment of celebration, she was invincible, and Rome belonged to her.
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The Senate hall was a grand spectacle, a place where the fate of Rome was debated and decided. Marble columns rose high, supporting a vaulted ceiling adorned with intricate frescoes depicting the glory of Rome's past victories. The Senators, clad in in their ceremonial togas, filled the curved rows, murmuring amongst themselves as they waited for the Consul's address. The air was thick with anticipation, and the echoes of their voices reverberated off the cold stone walls.
Galaxia stood at the center, a figure of unmatched authority. She still wore her golden armor from the grand celebration a few hours ago, the medal gleaming under the torchlights. Her mere presence commanded the attention of every Senator in the room. Seiya and his brothers stood slightly offside from the Senators, but still deliberately close to where Galaxia was, a sign of their unwavering loyalty to Rome's Consul.
The hush that fell over the assembly was palpable, as if event the walls themselves were leaning in to hear what Galaxia has to say. With a graceful yet powerful stride, the Consul approached the podium. Her sharp eyes that reminded of molten amber swept across the room, taking in the faces of Rome's most powerful men. Her eyes narrowed slightly as she took in their appearance. "Powerful…" she thought to her with disdain. "A group of fearful, well-fed men who hide inside the comfort and security of their villas in Rome. Deliberately blind to what needs to be done to protect and ensure their pleasant lives."
"Senators of Rome!" her voice finally rang out, clear and strong. "We stand at a crossroad in our history. Our victories in the southern provinces have brought of glory, but they have also exposed the weaknesses of our enemies. Now is not the time for complacency. Now is the time to expand our reach, to secure the borders, and to ensure that the power of Rome is felt in every corner of the known world."
A heated murmur rippled through the Senate, but Galaxia continued undeterred.
"We must strengthen our legions, increase our fortifications along the borders, and crush anyone who dares to challenge our supremacy. The provinces in the north have grown bold, and our enemies in the east are whispered to group up to challenge our authority." Her eyes flickered briefly to where Seiya was standing, her gaze a heated glare before she turned back to where the Senators to continue her speech. "We cannot allow this to gain momentum, threatening to spread to other areas of our Empire like a plague. It is our duty to quash resistance now. Therefore, I propose a new campaign – a swift and decisive strike against rebellious provinces in the north, and a reinforcement of troops in the east. Let us remind them and the world that Rome's hand is iron and unyielding."
She paused, letting her words sink in. She realized how the Senators exchanged glances, some nodding in agreement, while others – the majority as it seemed – shifted uncomfortably. Galaxia's ambition as clear: she sought to solidify her power and expand Rome's influence, even if it meant more war.
One Senator, Claudius, an older man with a weathered face, rose to speak.
"Consul Galaxia, while your victories are unparalleled, there are concerns. The people tire of war, and our coffers run thin. Is it wise to embark yet another campaign?"
Galaxia met his gaze with a calm, yet fierce determination.
"So maybe then we should cut down expenses for the exuberant celebrations you and other honored members of this Senate let yourself sponsored by the City of Rome, Senator." she retorted sharply, earning a heated glares from the audience. "Or raise taxes for the noble families from our Roman Empire – wouldn't you be thrilled, Claudius, to help preserve the Empire's glory through such noble deeds?"
She smirked at the Senator before she turned to face the entire group of Senators again.
"It seems the Senators of Rome are blind to what is directly in front of them. Today's celebration has shown the true desires of the people from Rome. They are descendants of Mars himself, eager and fierce to see the glory of Rome spread to corners of this world that are still hidden in shadows."
"The people of Rome deserve to live in peace." Another Senator boldly chimed in, joint by more murmurs of agreement.
Galaxia focused intently on him, her brows raised as she stared calmly at him. A wave of dark satisfaction surged through her body as he saw the man shift uncomfortably under her burning gaze.
"Peace, Senator, is won through strength, not weakness. I agree that the people of Rome deserve to feel secure, t know that the Empire is unassailable. And it is our duty to ensure that security. At any cost."
The Senator hesitated, then nodded reluctantly, knowing there was little room for dissent. As Galaxia concluded her speech, the Senate erupted in applause, though not all were as enthusiastic as they appeared. Seiya and his brothers joint the applause, the young man's wheels turning rapidly as he thought about how Galaxia's plans for Rome could help him with his own goals.
However, one thing had become obvious today: Galaxia had made her point clear. Rome's future was in her hands, and she would shape it as she saw fit.
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Inside the guarded confines within Serenity's tent, the air was thick with the reunion of close friends. No, family, Serenity thought with a sad smile in her face as he listened to Mina who had had quite obviously tried to dispel all dark thoughts about Endymion, Raye and the rebels by gushing enthusiastically about how Malachite had protected her from the rebel attack. They were her only family that was left. She tried to focus on her friends' laughter, but her mind constantly wondered back to Endymion and his sister. She had heard Endymion often talk with admiration about Raye – a fierce woman with raven hair and sparkling indigo eyes, who would protect those she held dear with unwavering determination, but who wore at the same time a kindness in tenderness in her heart that was unrivaled. Endymion had often laughed whole-heartedly whenever we had spoken about Raye, sharing that Serenity's love and stubbornness always reminded him of his sister. His azure eyes would then always cloud with sadness, the man in belief of his sister being dead, killed by the rebels, and he would also close the conversation about his sister with the certainty that Serenity and Raye would have become close if the Gods had only given them the chance to meet in this lifetime. Her frantically beating heart clenched tightly in Serenity's chest. The Gods had finally given them the chance to meet. Twice, that is. And both times, the woman Serenity had encountered had only little to do with the image Endymion had painted in Serenity's head. The woman she had encountered had been without a doubt fierce, determined to protect – but the stories that Serenity had also heard from her close friends confirmed the initial impression from their two encounters that there was no tenderness, no warmth in the other woman left. Serenity would never forget the burning hatred in these fiery eyes when Raye had tried to kill her. Twice.
"Are you, Serenity?" a voice suddenly called her back from her deep thoughts. Serenity quickly shook her head, trying to forget Raye's burning gaze that still weighed down her heart. She looked at Luna, the older woman's gaze expectant and adorned with a gentle smile.
"I said that Haruka had told us that you are being treated well. Are you, child?" she repeated.
Serenity smiled weakly, appreciating their concern.
"Yes, I'm fine. Haruka has been looking out for me, even though she pretends it is to prevent me from escaping." She paused, her gaze drifting away for a moment as she thought about the complexity of Haruka's situation. "She's caught between her duties and her conscience, I believe. But without her, I'd be lost."
Luna nodded her head in understanding. "She seems to be blessed by Juno Herself." she whispered solemnly. "Protecting those who are in need the most."
The friends continued to talk, sharing stories and offering Serenity words of encouragement and love. After a while, and Serenity noticed that it must have been way past the 15 minutes that Haruka had granted them, the tent flap rustled again. The moment Serenity saw Haruka's dark expression, and the fierceness in her sparkling green eyes, did she know that the blonde rebel had not only brought an end to the visit of her friends, but she had come to bring much worse news.
"Your time together needs to end now." Haruka addressed the group, glancing at each woman before her gaze settled on Serenity. "It's time." She said softly. "Alan wants to see you."
Serenity's heart skipped a beat, the little source of life pumping with relentless vigor as she looked back at Haruka. She finally nodded, standing slowly. She looked back at her friends, a small smile on her face. "I thank you all" she whispered, her eyes filling with tears. "From bringing me your love and strength today. And thank you, Haruka." she continued, her voice carrying a depth of gratitude that transcended their current circumstances. "For everything."
Haruka nodded, her features softening for a moment in understanding.
"Say your goodbyes." she said, stepping back to give them a final moment of privacy. "But make it quick."
Serenity embraced each of her friends tightly, whispering words of hope and reassurance.
"We'll be together soon." she promised, and then she turned to follow Haruka out of the tent.
The air outside was cooler, the camp quiet as most of the revels were settling down for the night. They walked in silence, the gravel crunching under their feet as each step took Serenity closer to a fate unknown. As they approached Alan's tent at the heart of the camp that was guarded by two heavily armed rebels, Haruka paused, her hand on Serenity's shoulder to stop her for a moment.
"Be wise with your words." She advised quietly. "Alan is a man driven by many things, but his trust is hard won."
Serenity nodded, taking in a deep breath to steady her nerves. "Thank you, Haruka." She murmured.
Haruka lifted the flap of the tent, gesturing for Serenity to enter.
"He's waiting." She said simply.
Stepping into the tent, Serenity felt a rush of apprehension and resolve. The stakes were high, and her heart arched at the thought of Endymion and her friends. But she knew that she needed to play her part well, for his sake and everyone she held dear. She braced herself, ready to face whatever her deal with Alan might bring.
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Alan sat on a rugged wooden chair, his posture relaxed but his mind intensely focused. A soft rustle at the tent's entrance snapped him out of his thoughts. He looked up to see Serenity pausing at the threshold, her silhouette ethereal against the dim backdrop. He couldn't help the predatory smirk that formed on his lips.
"Enter, Serenity." He called out, his voice smooth and inviting, but laced with a dark allure. "Don't be shy."
As Serenity moved gracefully across the room, the simple white gown that had been given to her whispering against the earthen floor, Alan's gaze followed her every step appreciatively. He held out one hand and motioned for her to sit on the seat across from him. Her posture was poised, her eyes bravely meeting his. He wouldn't have expected less from her. Alan's look lingered a moment longer than necessary, taking in her beauty. He took the goblet that was placed in front of him into his hand, taking a long, deliberate gulp. Alan watched Serenity over the rim of his goblet, closely observing her reaction as she recognized the emblem on the goblet in his hand. Her eyes focused on the emblem a little longer, but there was no sign of horror or any other emotion that he could detect in her eyes. He smirked a little to himself.
"You continue to surprise me, Serenity." Alan then began, breaking the tense silence around them. His voice was low and seductive. "Such willingness to lay down your life – it's both foolish and utterly captivating. Tell me, Domina. Is it fear that you lack or is love really that powerful."
She looked at him with a slightly puzzled look in her eyes – as if she didn't quite understand the question.
"Of course it is love." Serenity finally replied firmly, her voice steady despite the intensity of his gaze. "Love that makes life worth living, and at times, worth sacrificing."
Alan leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees as he observed her closely.
"And yet, here you are. Choosing life at my behest." He murmured, his tone implying a more personal interest. "It intrigues me… what you might be willing to do, driven by such potent love."
Serenity's eyes swiftly glanced too where Alan had placed the goblet. She maintained her composure, though she could feel the weight of his probing gaze that was heavy with an unspoken desire.
"It costs much." She admitted softly. "But it gives hope that something good will emerge from the darkness and suffering at some point."
"Hope!" Alan echoed, his voice a husky whisper. "A beautiful but dangerous thing. Especially coming from someone as enchanting as yourself."
Serenity bit something inside her mouth to not let him see the unpleasant shudder that went through her body at his words.
"It may be dangerous." She finally agreed, meeting his flirtation with calm resolve. "But without it, we have nothing."
A long beat of silence followed her words. She felt her skin hot under his merciless stare – the rebel leader looking at the beauty in front of him through distant, calculating eyes. Serenity cocked her head a little in confusion. She had imagined the encounter in her head over and over again during these past two days, and images – one more dreadful than the other of what he might do to her the moment she would enter his tent – had haunted her mercilessly in the middle of the night. And though the man in front of her was still anxious to keep their encounter portentous, laced with hints of darker desires that he held, it was still very different from what she had expected.
"Why have you brought me here?" she finally found the courage to ask, managing to bring Alan's attention back on her.
Alan's smile was slow, appreciative of her spirit.
"I desire you loyalty, Serenity. Your insight into the Empire could prove invaluable to our cause. Help me, and I assure you, the benefits will be…" he let his hand float gracefully through the air as if he was trying to catch the rights words. "… mutually gratifying." He finished with a smirk.
"And the others?" Serenity's voice held a trace of vulnerability as she pressed for assurance. "Will you keep your word and spare them?"
Alan took his time before he answered.
"I will." he promised, his eyes never leaving hers to convince her of the truth of his words. "As long as you remain true to me, I will honor our agreement. Your friends' and lover's life for your… cooperation."
Serenity inhaled deeply, understanding the full extent of the pact she was making.
"Then I will do what I must." She said, her voice steady.
Alan smiled, his eyes filled with a predatory gleam.
"Excellent!" he exclaimed. He stood and offered her his hand to stand as well.
She reluctantly took it and was pulled to her feat – more gently as she had anticipated. With a determined motion, she was pulled flat against Alan's body, and she felt the hard, toned chest pressed firmly against the softness of her breast. A hand was placed beneath her chin, gently forcing her to look up. Crystal blue locked with deep brown. A victorious smirk appeared on Alan's lips as he held her tight, a promise and invitation for something deeper, something darker.
"Let us begin this partnership then." He whispered hoarsely. "For the future and for the satisfaction of mutual interests."
Serenity's eyes widened as he captured her mouth with his, a low groan escaping him as he traced her lips with his tongue. Serenity closed her eyes shut, accepting her fate as she opened up to him, granting him entrance. His grip around her slender form tightened even further, effectively caging her passive body with his as he explored her mouth. Images of Endymion and her friends appeared before her eyes as she let his hands roam her body hungrily, giving her the strength to not pull back from his merciless touch. She was already prepared for Alan to take his assault to the next step, when she realized with surprise how his movements became slower, less aggressive and almost tender until the stopped completely. He pulled away from her, making Serenity open her eyes again. His brown eyes were filled with dark as he watched her flushed face.
"You taste delicious." He rasped, his voice heavy with desire. "I wanted to taste you at least once."
With that, he took a determined step back, making Serenity sway slightly.
"Go now." he suddenly said and turned away from her to grab the goblet of wine. "I heard your lover Endymion should be awakening soon."
Serenity wouldn't move, not trusting her legs to hold her if she took a single step. Alan turned around to face her again, his expression again cool and collected.
"Something wrong, Serenity?" he asked with the hint of amusement dancing in his eyes.
"I … I don't understand." she said slowly, earning a low chuckle from the man in front of her.
"I desire you." Alan stated matter-of-factly. "And I would gladly fuck you hard here right on this table." Serenity took a sharp intake of breath at the bluntness of his words. "Alas…" he continued with a smirk. "This is not only about me and my desires. This is about my people and giving them the best chances at victory. For that, I need not only your loyalty, but also you trust. And even though a part of me wants nothing more than to make you mine, it could inflict harm in our partnership and among my followers that cannot be easily restored."
Serenity stared at him a moment longer, the meaning of his words slowly thinking in.
"Go no, Serenity, former Domina of the House of Tadius, and accept your place among us." he said. He took a small step closer, winking playfully at her: "Or stay out of your free will and experience a world of pleasure that even the Bringer of Rain would not be able to show you."
Serenity's cheeks flushed. She took in a deep breath before she answered.
"Then I will take my leave." she said curtly, and left the tent without looking back.
Alan remained behind, watching her depart with a look of anticipation on his harsh features. He had realized that Serenity was not only a tool to be used. She was a challenge, a mystery he was intent on unraveling. Her purity, her strength, they called to him, igniting a flame of desire and curiosity that would undoubtedly shape their fates in ways neither of them could yet foresee.
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8 years ago
In the dim, sacred confines of a temple, where the shadows clung to ancient statues and the air was thick with the scent of incense, Tadius stood facing his friend – the High Priest of these sacred grounds. The tension between the two was almost visible, a stark contrast to the serene visages of the Gods that surrounded them.
Tadius, his expression troubled and his voice heavy with disappointment, broke the silence.
"We have stood together through many trials, friend, and I have valued your counsel as one would value the guidance of the Gods themselves. But what I see now… it disturbs me greatly."
The other man, robed in the dark vestments that had slowly replaced his once-pristine priestly attire, turned to face Tadius. His eyes were dark and inscrutable as they met Tadius with an unsettling calm.
"My path has led me to greater truths, Tadius. The Gods we have worshipped have shown me visions that cannot be ignored. The power of Darkness, Death, Despair… these are not to be feared but embraced as the deeper aspect of divine will."
Tadius clenched his fists, his loyalty to all Deities clashing with the path his old friend had chosen.
"You speak of embracing darkness, but what of the light? What of mercy and love? You once were a man of balance, but now …"
He stopped there, looking intently at his old friend. "Now you frighten me." He added lowly, the truth of his words echoing from the high marble pillars around them.
The other man's voice was smooth, almost persuasive, as he stepped closer to the Roman general.
"The balance you cling to is an illusion, Tadius." he said lowly. "True power lies in accepting all aspects of divinity, not just the palpable ones. I see to harness these forces, to understand them. Join me, Tadius, and see yourself the potency of what I have discovered under Nemesis' guidance."
Tadius shook his head determinedly, his decision firm despite the pain it brought him.
"No." he whispered, his eyes filling with regret. Regret for what he was about to lose. "This is where we part ways, old friend. I cannot follow you down this path. Your quest for power has blinded you to the very essence of our faith: protection, guidance, compassion. You forsake these for the darker cravings of the soul."
The other man's expression hardened, the veneer of calm slightly slipping.
"The you are a fool, Tadius. You deny yourself the full spectrum of divine might. Be wary, old friend, that you leniency does not lead you to ruin. You and your son, Diamond, tread a perilous line with your soft hearts."
The mentioning of his son brought a flash of anger to Tadius' eyes, but his voice remained controlled, edged with sorrow.
"I fear for you, old friend. I fear that this darkness will consume you. But it will not consume me or my family. This is goodbye."
Turning his back on the other man, Tadius left the temple, each step echoing hollowly in the sacred space. Behind him, the High Priest watched, his face a mask of cool detachment, but his eyes – dark and troubled – betrayed a flicker of loss.
The rift between them was complete, a friendship sundered by diverging beliefs in how to serve the Gods and their people. Tadius walked back into the light of day, feeling the weight of the encounter heavy on his heart, knowing that the path ahead would be lonelier, perhaps harder, without the counsel of his once-trusted friend.
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His dark, burning eyes were settled onto the roofs of Rome, the bricks turning crimson under the light of the setting sun. He poured himself another glass of rich red wine, the color reminding him of the blood that needed to be shed on the path to glory.
"You should have listened to me, old friend." his serpent-like voice whispered into the cool evening air. "But see how Nemesis has avenged your death today through my hand. Justice has been served, the debt has been paid. Rest now, Tadius, old friend."
With that, he raised the goblet of wine as if in tribute to his former companion.
"Wiseman." A voice suddenly sounded from the entrance of his spacious room. He turned around, noticing with satisfaction how the Roman soldier shifted uncomfortably at the other man's presence.
The soldier stood a little bit taller under Wiseman's burning gaze, his body upright despite the trouble Wiseman could detect in his eyes.
"The Consul needs to speak to you." The soldier said stiffly, before he quickly turned around and left the room.
Wiseman chuckled lowly and placed the goblet with deliberate slowness back into the table.
"So let the games of love and glory continue." he mumbled darkly.
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Hello - I'm back and more determined as ever to finish this story.
I hope there are still some people out there who are interested to see how things continue.
Thank you to everybody who sent me these kind messages over the past years, encouraging me to continue. I will!
Leave your thoughts and commets if you like - or if you prefer, just enjoy the twists and drama I have in store for you :)
xx
J