In Veritas Memento
Rating: NC 17
Disclaimer: I own nothing. All aspects of Spartacus: Gods of the Arena are owned by Steven De Knight and Starz. This is for pure entertainment value alone.
This story takes place after the episode Missio, yet it veers completely into an A/U after the events of that episode. I am a huge fan of the series Spartacus; however, my favorite character is Gannicus. This is his story…
Warnings: M for a reason. This story is much like the show. It contains foul language and smut! If that is not your cup of tea, turn back now.
Pairings: There is multiple pairing in this story. Gannicus has more than one partner in this story. However, Gannicus/Melitta is my end game. If you are offended by multiple pairings of the characters, then this story is NOT for you.
If you are like me and just want Gannicus naked as often as possible, then read on. LOL
A/N: Thank you so much for the reviews, words of encouragement and well wishes. It means so much to me. It inspires me as well. I have struggled to pick up the writing hat again, but once I posted, I was so excited to see a few people who have been with this story from way back! Amazing! For any and all new readers, or readers I have not thanked, I do so now. You have helped me recover from what has easily been the worst years of my life. Thank you for your support and encouragement to keep on living and finish this! This story kept me going because I would say to myself, I can't just curl up and die, I've got to finish G 's love story. LOL Anyhow, thanks again to all of you who took the time to let me know people are still reading this. I've got 8 more chapters done. I will be posting regularly.
Have a great day!
TJ
Chapter 58: alea iacta est: The die is cast
Batiatus Ludus: Naevia and Diona's small room
Kleos and Diona were sitting on her small bed on the floor of the cubiculum she shared with Naevia. Thanks to Gannicus, her once simple pallet on the floor now boasted soft pillows and luxurious furs to make bed and sleeping more comfortable. The brunette slave was reclining on a pillow, a flat wooden board lay on the bed between them for rolling of the knuckle bones; Diona was enjoying herself immensely as she taught Gannicus' son how to play Tali.
While Kleos picked up the bones to roll, Diona poured herself a cup of wine and handed the boy some water.
"Gratitude," he said, taking a sip before setting it aside. "What is score?" he asked.
Diona picked up her ledger to see. "You are behind by forty points," she told him. "You need a vulture of all sixes to go ahead of me, but all fours will result in tie."
He grinned. "I would like a Venus please," he whispered to the bones and rolled them onto the wooden board.
He looked down to see what he had rolled and frowned when he saw all ones, he frowned. "What is the score for Canis?"
"Eight points," Diona replied, barely hiding her grin when Kleos' lower lip began to make appearance.
He handed Diona the knuckle bones with a sigh. "I am beginning not to care for this game."
"You cannot give up, Kleos," she told him. "See sour words sweetened. Remember, fortune favors the bold."
And with that she tossed the bones.
Kleos turned gaze to her throw. "One, three, four and six," he said, eyes widening as he realized she had done it again. "Diona, you cheat!" the boy exclaimed, his lower lip now jutting out in an exaggerated pout that Diona found adorably reminiscent of Gannicus. "How can you roll yet another Venus? It is impossible!"
Diona ruffled his shaggy blonde hair. "You sound like your father," she told him with a grin. "He too finds it difficult to beat me at Tali."
"But that is the third Venus you have rolled. I have yet to roll one." He pushed the bones away and crossed his arms over his little chest. "Fortune may favor the bold, but the Gods do not favor me in Tali."
Deciding it was time to put the game away, Diona gathered up the tray and the bones before placing them beside her bed. "If you clear scowl, I shall give you the treat I have just for you," she told the boy.
His face immediately brightened; scowl vanishing as quick as it appeared. "Treat?" he asked, licking his lips in eager delight. "What treat?"
Diona chuckled at his reaction as she opened the small box next to her pallet where she stored small trinkets and treasures she had in life. She pulled out a small piece of fabric and unwrapped it. Inside was a honey cake. The new kitchen slave made them and Diona was aware Kleos had a love for the delicious treats, much as his father had a love for wine.
"Here," she said and held it out to him. "See frown removed."
Her offering had the desired results and immediately scowl turned to grin, which was an exact replica of his father's, and Diona had no doubts the boy would be just as popular with women as his father was.
"Gratitude Diona," he said, taking the offering from her as if it was cherished thing.
She nearly said "it was just a honey cake" but then Diona thought of Seraphina and how she had treated young Kleos harshly, talking badly to him and disparaging his father. Perhaps, to Kleos, small acts of kindness were a rare thing.
"You're welcome, Kleos. I will try and get you one to have with your vesperna each night."
Kleos set the cake aside and suddenly wrapped his skinny arms around Diona's neck and hugged her tightly. "I am glad you are my tad's woman, Diona," he whispered.
Diona felt tears well up in her green eyes at the sweetness of his gesture and she did not correct him on his assumption that she shared her bed with his father. Gannicus had spread the rumor himself and warned her not to alter story for her own protection. Now the lie was tied to Kleos; Diona would not see the boy disappointed. In the week since Gannicus left, Diona had taken Kleos under wing and he to her.
"As am I," Kleos she said, hugging the boy back. "As am I."
Just then Naevia poked her head in the doorway to their tiny room, and Diona frowned at her lifelong friend for interrupting her time with Kleos. "Naevia. Not now."
"Apologies, Diona," Naevia replied. "I would not interrupt, but Dominus has summoned you."
This caused Diona's frown of annoyance to turn to one of confusion. "For what purpose?"
Naevia shook her head. "I am uncertain, but it is not just you who is summoned," she said, her eyes going to the boy. "I was told to retrieve you as well as Kleos and have you both brought to his tablinum."
Kleos looked worried and he began to gnaw his bottom lip. "Diona," are we in trouble?"
She shook her head and ruffled the boy's hair. "No Kleos," she told him. "I do not believe it so." And Diona was relatively certain of it. The elder Dominus was a gruff man, but a fair one, who had no mind to the disgraceful dealings the younger Dominus had embroiled the house in.
"We shall be fine," she reassured yet again as they followed Naevia.
Diona smiled gently when Kleos slipped his small hand within hers.
Aurelius' City Domus:
Late afternoon Vesperna was ordinarily a light meal that consisted of porridge, fruits, nuts and a variety of cheeses and breads to tide one over until the evening cena, but for this occasion, in honor of the Ludi Apollinares, the vesperna and cena were to be as one. Octavia had the slaves set up an extra-long table in the triclinium to accommodate the added guests and the abundance of food she had arranged for the evening.
Tonight was important to Claudius. It needed to be one of perfection. Octavia was determined to see it so.
Octavia's body slave, Anya oversaw the other slaves as they prepared the triclinium for the nights' feast. Two tables were set to accommodate the many dishes planned to ensure every Noble palate would be satisfied. Octavia had instructed the kitchen slaves to prepare a grand meal that included platters of delicate oysters, a variety of fish, both saltwater and fresh. Trays of garum spiced chicken, minced pork, stuffed dormice, as well as flatbreads topped with sausage, olives and cheeses were available to satisfy all tastes. In addition, there was a large assortment of fresh fruits, such as grapes, figs, plums, Syrian pears, and apples. And of course, no proper Roman meal would be complete without wine. House Aurelius provided a wide assortment of wines ranging from the exquisite whites such as Falernum and Falernian, from the slopes of Mt. Falernus, to the deep red of Caesar's preferred brew of Mamertino di Milazzo from Messana Sicilia (1).
With opening ceremonies of the eight-day festival set to begin on the morrow, the patrician Carule Aediles (men responsible for public games and festivals) were invited to discuss various last minute aspects of the event, such as the procession through the city; the Aediles felt Gannicus should not make the procession because he was not to be shackled, Claudius had no choice but to agree, or risk showing his personal beliefs regarding slavery. The Aediles also delivered a complete schedule for the entertainment, getting Aurelius' approval for any scheduling changes, and what, if anything, would be further required from House Aurelius to ensure the important festival proceeded smoothly.
With the election for Consul just a few months away, The Ludi Appoloinares was perfect opportunity to garner support for Claudius' political platform. Octavia planned to ensure her husband's proposal for the return of the Plebian Tribune pass when next brought to the Senate floor by inviting three of the Senators who had been absent at previous vote. Not only did she want to win them over to her husband's way on the matter, but she also wanted to ensure the Apollinare festival helped pave the way for Claudius' future reelection.
As the evening progressed, Octavia reclined in her chair, a contented smile gracing her lips as she took note of each guest, judging their moods by the abundance of laughter throughout. The evening was a success. Octavia admired how easily her husband charmed their guests. He smiled, laughed at all the right times, and generally made each guest feel utterly special. It was a gift, one she possessed in kind. His skill at drawing people to him in such a manner is what also made him such a good politician.
She was excited for the upcoming festival. Tomorrow was the first day of the Apolloinares and it was going to be a magnificent showing. Aediles Belicius and Verenius had given Claudius a schedule of each event to take place over the eight days of the festivities, beginning with the Pompa Circensis, (2) which consisted of a large parade of military soldiers on foot and horseback, satirical artists, theatrical performers, gladiators and other Apolloinare performers as they followed a route that started at Capitoline Hill, went throughout the city of Rome and ended at the Circus Maximus. The procession was to be followed by the ritual sacrifice of oxen to the Gods, and the host of theatrical performances planned; Gannicus' portrayal of Apollo defeating Python at Delphi would be the first of these events. The chariot races followed the arts and theatrical events, and on the last two days of the festival, the gladiatorial events would take precedence, with Batiatus' gladiators appearing in three separate primuses' happening within the Circus on the final day, simultaneously.
What a glorious sight it was sure to be! Octavia was most satisfied the two men had a firm hand on the festival and was assured the ceremonies and competitions would be carried out with bountiful flair as well as efficiency.
With mind eased regarding the Ludi Apollinares, Octavia and Claudius turned sight to satisfying the needs of their political guests. Senators Publius Lepidius, Attius Flavius and Magnus Vettia had gorged themselves on the abundant display of exotic foods and wine and, of course, were now firmly on board for Claudius' proposal to bring back the plebian tribune. Batiatus' gladiators on display certainly helped make the evening a memorable one as well. The nobles in attendance were beyond excited to be so close to Gannicus, the God of the Arena, who had so gloriously defeated the "Un-killable" Negrimus.
Octavia's gaze was drawn to him. He excited her too, robbing breath, and making head spin. She forced herself to turn away from his sensual physique. It was difficult task. Nearly nude, his hard muscled body was painted a glistening golden hue in honor of Apollo. He truly looked like the God Batiatus called him and was captivating sight indeed, she ached for him and desperately wished she could take him upstairs to her cubiculum, strip him of his subligaria and have him take her with the firmness of hand that only Gannicus offered her. She might have found a way to achieve goal somehow if oppressive presence of her brother had not been in attendance.
Her eyes searched for and found said oppressive presence. Surprisingly, he was not watching her, instead he was speaking to Senator Flavius regarding Quintus Sertorius' campaign in Hispania and the man's successful use of unconventional warfare to defeat Metellus Pius. (3)
Yes, despite Lucius being in attendance, and her inability to have Gannicus to herself, the night was going splendidly.
Gaia was proving herself to be an asset. She flirted and charmed her audience effortlessly, and within short time, she had Senator Vettia eating from palm of hand. "You lie to suit your own purpose," she told the man, her laughter infectious. "I never promised such a thing."
Magnus Vettia was a tall, dark, and handsome man. Moreover, he was unmarried and very wealthy. Unlike her first husband Gaius Decimus, Gaia could find love with Vettia for more than just his purse...if she played hand well.
"You did," Vettia insisted, his blue eyes sparkling at the beautiful brunette. "You made promise for you and Decimus to visit my country villa, and then you left without word."
"Decimus..." Gaia bowed her head for a moment at the mention of her deceased husband. "He is with me no more," she said, gazing up at Vettia under lashes
Vettia's deep blue eyes widened. "Apologies." He took her hand in his and squeezed it gently before placing a kiss there. "I had not heard. Condolences on your loss."
Unwilling to get mired down with depressing words, Gaia was adept at turning discussion. "Gratitude," she told him, giving him soft smile in return, "but it was some time ago. He would want me to cherish memory, but not linger on his passing." And with that, she quickly moved hers and Vettia's conversation on from dead husband to House Aurelius' festivities. "Let us turn thoughts from sorrowful topic to one more pleasing."
The beautiful brunette took a sip of her wine, her gaze wandering the room for a moment before returning to Vettia. "Have you ever had such a vesperna?" Gaia plucked a ripe olive off his plate and popped it into her mouth. "The most delectable delicacies cause palate to melt with pleasure." She gave a small shiver. "And gladiators. Gods of the arena. Makes heart race," she said, saluting her Hostess with her raised cup. "Octavia, it is a most magnificent feast for all the senses. If the Gods are even half as pleased as I am, your blessings will be vast!"
Having heard her friend's boast, Octavia responded. "Gaia, you flatter," the blonde said. "It is nothing really. A simple meal to honor friends."
Vettia chuckled at Gais audacity to take food directly from his tray, as well as Octavia's show of modesty. "It is far from nothing, you, as always, have outdone yourself," he told Octavia and followed Gaia's suit by toasting Octavia with his cup of wine, "You are a true asset to your husband's cause and Tertulla will be green with envy on the morrow when word is spread of this glorious night, filled with gladiators and..." His gaze rested on Gaia for just a moment longer than was socially acceptable. "Most exquisite of company," he added, his interest in the brunette obvious.
Octavia's grin was wicked at the mention of Tertulla. As the wife of Marcus Crassus, the richest man in Rome, one would think her parties would outshine Octavia's, but they never did and Tertulla hated it. "If she but asked how I achieved such things, secrets would escape lips willingly."
Gaia gave a small snort of disbelief. "I think not. There can only be one mistress of ceremonies in Rome, love," she said to her blonde friend, "and it stands as you."
Octavia giggled at that. "You honor me." Her gaze went between Gaia and Vettia, seeing the obvious interest. She was pleased at the possibility of helping to find Gaia a match.
"Vettia," Octavia said, "perhaps you would care to join us tomorrow in the Pulvinus?" Her cat like green eyes sparkled. "I am certain Gaia would find the idea pleasing, yes?"
"Oh, you simply must!" Gaia gushed.
Vettia readily agreed, his attention on Gaia. "I would be both honored and pleased."
When Gaia and Vettia began to speak in whisper, Octavia's attention was, once again, drawn across the room... she licked her lips at his beauty. Arousal, sharp and fierce raced along nerve endings, causing heart to pound and ache to pulse between legs. He caused her to feel things she never imagined possible, and she clenched thighs together under her robes to ease the rhythmic throb that hungered for his touch.
Gannicus.
Gods, she wanted him in a manner that was bordering on desperate!
By sheer force of will, Octavia turned from desirable lover, only to find overbearing brother watching her yet again. She quickly looked away, angered. His acute gaze had been focused on her throughout much of the meal and his keen interest in her affairs certainly helped to settle any thoughts on a rendezvous with her gladiator lover. It was far too dangerous.
She had not missed the not so veiled threat earlier in the day. It was not Cecilia he was speaking of regarding gladiators. It was her. Octavia knew if she singled Gannicus out and showed her desire for him, in front of Lucius' very eyes, it would be the end of not only her, but Gannicus as well. She had no wish to place him in that kind of peril.
When talk turned to ex-dictator Sulla's retirement to the country as private citizen, discussions became quite lively as opinions on the man varied widely. Octavia decided it was a perfect time to see the gladiators back to their lodging. She looked down the table to Batiatus, who seemed quite eager to state his own beliefs regarding Lucius Sulla and the policies and politics of Rome. The lanista was having an animated discussion with an old friend of her father, Senator Magnus Lepidius regarding Cornelius Cinna's bid to take Rome years back and whether that spurred Lucius Sulla to seize control and assign himself the role of dictator (4).
"Had Cinna not made attempt, do you truly believe Sulla would have taken the city without due cause?" Batiatus asked, warming to debate.
Senator Lepidius waved argument off. "Batiatus, you do not understand weight of the matter. You see after defeating Marius in Praeneste, Sulla was already marching towards Rome when Cinna made attempt." He paused to take a bite of the stuffed dormice on his tray. "Therefore, Cinna's bold choice was made in retaliation of Sulla, not vice versa."
It was then Lucretia noticed Octavia trying to get Quintus' attention. "Apologies," she said, smiling, "I hesitate to interrupt such stimulating conversation, but Quintus, I do believe Octavia is trying to gain notice."
Quintus quickly looked to where his host was sitting, and indeed, she was signaling to him. "Apologies Senator..." he began, but Lepidus waved him off.
"None required," the older man said. "When Octavia summons, men make haste," he said with a chuckle.
Claudius came upon them just at that moment. "Or lose head if they ignore," he quipped, causing everyone to laugh.
Quintus was still chuckling at Aurelius' joke when he sat down next to Octavia. "Apologies," he said. "I did not see you. What—" He did not have a chance to ask what she required before she told him she needed him to "remove Gannicus from sight". Quintus' eyes about popped from head. "Remove Gannicus!" he said a little louder than intended and she ssshhed him. "But why?" he questioned roughly; disappointment obvious. "Has he offended somehow?"
"No," she told the lanista, shaking her head. "Not at all. It is opposite, Batiatus. He is perilous distraction to me presently and I cannot allow onerous brother to observe the way he compels gaze to stray to him so often," she admitted softly. "I have great fear of what could happen should such a thing come to light."
Quintus too had heard the threat earlier. "Your brother does not take to your caring for a gladiator," he said. "He makes threats."
She nodded but was unwilling to say more. "I see we are of a similar mind. I would not have him suffer for it," she told Batiatus.
"Nor would I," he readily agreed. "I will see to it immediately."
Octavia halted him before he got up. "Wait an hour, then make excuse that Gannicus is to be in opening ceremony tomorrow as Apollo. That should stave off the arousing of suspicions."
Quintus agreed and then got to his feet to mingle again. After all, it was not every day that he got to rub elbows with the Roman elite. He would see opportunity bear fruit.
Octavia stole one last look at her magnificent lover in his golden glory before she set mind to purpose and began mingling with her guests again. Claudius' election would soon be upon them, and she wanted to ensure she had done her all to see him maintain his consulship.
Batiatus Ludus: The Tablinum
Diona and Kleos entered Titus' study. The boy, who had never actually been inside the villa past the kitchen and the slave quarters, was gripping Diona's hand tightly and nearly glued to her leg as his big brown eyes took in the new surroundings. When he noticed Oenomaus, he relaxed visibly and moved off Diona's leg some.
"Dominus," Diona said, bowing her head.
When Kleos remained silent, she gave his hand a squeeze. "Oh! Dominus," the youngster parroted, flushing red at having to be reminded.
Instead of being angry Titus chuckled. He turned to look up at Oenomaus, who came to stand beside him. "That reminded me of someone... I wonder who it could be?"
Oenomaus rolled eyes. He knew Titus referred to himself when he was but a wild thing, more animal than man, and in need of forceful prompt for even the simplest of command. However, before he could give voice to thought, Kleos chimed in.
"I have heard it said I am the image of my tad," the boy said, puffing out his skinny little chest. "Is that who I remind you of?"
Oenomaus grinned while Titus laughed aloud. "You do so now," the old Dominus said, shaking his head and chuckling at the boy's brashness. Titus turned his gaze to Diona. "You are Gannicus' woman, are you not?"
Her eyes widened and she hedged, unsure how to answer since she really was not Gannicus' woman, but the younger Batiatus had given her to Gannicus after disturbing events within the villa, so in that manner, she was. In truth, it was complcated. She did not wish to lie to the elder Dominus, but she did not wish to get Gannicus in trouble with the younger Batiatus either.
She need not have worried because before she could decide one way or the other, Kleos answered for her. "She is. My tad told me to heed Diona and protect her because she was his," the boy supplied. "And I am," he added proudly, little chest puffed all the way out now.
Diona blushed ten shades of red. She was quite certain Gannicus had not intended to have the elder Dominus insert nose into his affairs, but it was too late now.
This time it was Oenomaus who threw his head back and laughed at the boy's words.
Kleos scowled at him. "It is no jest Oenomaus," he said, his lower lip jutting at being laughed at. "I stand capable of protecting Diona."
"You mistake intent, Kleos." The big man said, holding up hands in a form of missio. "I do not laugh at you. I laugh because your words, spoken with firm purpose remind me of both myself and your father." Oenomaus reached out and ruffled the boy's hair. "You have a fire within your breast, as do all gladiators."
The pride in the boy's face was evident for all to see. "Gratitude Doctore," Kleos said as if he too were ready to take to the sands.
"Oenomaus," Titus said, his gruff voice softened by a smile. "Perhaps you would show young Kleos the glorious past of this house. Let him see the gladiators who have come before."
Realizing his Dominus wanted Kleos absent from room, Oenomaus held out his hand to the boy. "Come, allow me to show you some of the past champions of the House of Batiatus."
Kleos grinned. "I would like that, although, none could be greater than my tad," he said, his innate cockiness and hero worship for his father evident in his voice. "He beat Negrimus, the Un-killable in storied battle. Longest match ever recorded in Capua's history," the boy bragged, his words bigger than his size. "Can any of the past champions make such a boast?"
Titus snorted at the boy's arrogance, but Oenomaus merely chuckled as they left Titus' tablinum. "No, they cannot," he admitted with a grin.
Titus watched them go with a twinkle in his eye, before he turned back to Diona, a more stoic expression on face. He eyed her for several moments before he asked, "Is there a chance you are with child?"
She blushed to the roots of her hair. "I... uh..." She started to deny it, before she realized she could not. Gannicus had taken her just last month when he was drunk and hurting over Melitta. Finally, she sighed and gave a short nod. "There is, but I have not seen any signs as of yet."
"So, you are sharing his bed, then?" Titus asked.
Diona was unsure where this questioning was headed, but it was making her more and more uncomfortable. "Dominus..."
"Answer me, girl!" he snapped.
Diona jumped when he raised voice. "Yes," she admitted quickly. "I have shared his bed."
"Are you aware of his leaning for another?"
Diona gasped, stunned that the elder Dominus knew.
"Ah," he said, "I see you are." He studied her for so long, Diona began to shuffle from one foot to the other nervously. "Do you know what his infatuation could do to my ludus?"
"Dominus, Gannicus would rather see tongue severed than hurt the ones he loves."
His hand slamming down on his desk caused her to hold tongue. "He would have naught to say in the matter if it became known he lost heart to a Roman noble!" Titus growled. "Has it escaped mind how dangerous his affection for the woman is?"
Stunned, Diona dropped her head and allowed her hair to curtain face lest the Dominus see her shock. He thought Gannicus devoted to the Roman woman! His love for Melitta was still in dust and shadows. She would not see to its enlightenment.
"If word escaped that he was fucking her, I would have Lucius fucking Severus upon my steps demanding his head on a pike!" the old man bit out.
"Apologies Dominus," Diona murmured, "but he did not ask to lose heart. Gannicus has tried to resist her call. I have seen efforts made with my own eyes." Diona was quite proud of herself. She had spoken truth, while keeping actual truth in darkness where such a thing belonged.
Titus sighed. Since his victories in the Vinalia and the Floralia, Gannicus had become a celebrity. The public adored him and requests for the man's talents in the arena had been pouring in from Pompei, Campagna, Rome, even as far away as Hispania and the Emerita Augusta theatre! (5) The man was a true marvel, and Titus was finally ready to accept the blonde gladiator as the champion of the House Batiatus. In fact, just before the merchant left for Rome, Titus had officially refused Tullius' offer to purchase Gannicus. Now that Titus recognized Gannicus' capabilities, he would see his champion removed from temptation's path and settled. It would allow the man to focus his attentions on performance in the arena, not performance upon the sheets.
"Let me ask you this, Diona..." Titus caught and held Diona's gaze. "Does your heart stir for the man?"
Diona's heart began to pound, and her face must have answered for her because Titus simply nodded. "Very well." He signaled for Oenomaus to come back in. "When Gannicus returns from Rome, I will arrange a handfasting ceremony for the two of you, much as I did for Melitta and Oenomaus."
Diona's eyes widened considerably, and she gasped. "Dominus, I —"
He did not let her finish. "Speak nothing of it. It is obvious, even to these tired eyes, that you have great affection for the man, as well as his son."
"But he has not expressed love for me, Dominus," she said quietly.
"He feels something for you, or the man would not have requested you as his."
"Yes, but..." She tried to find a way out of this situation, but Titus Batiatus was not having it.
"Enough!" he demanded. "You do not stand as whore to service the gladiators, Diona. The man has taken your maidenhead. I will see a proper ceremony between you. It is best for everyone involved."
The elder Dominus placed blame on Gannicus, yet he had not plucked her flower. The pig Rhaskos had done that, at the behest of that awful Roman, but Diona could not correct the elder Dominus. She was terrified of what the younger Batiatus would do to her if she brought to light the act pressed upon the slaves of this house in Titus' absence. Realizing further silence or protest would only cause suspicions to rise, Diona acquiesced.
"Gratitude Dominus," she said, wringing her hands nervously as Oenomaus entered the room with Kleos.
"Oh, and see Kleos' things moved to your room," Titus added.
This was all moving so fast, Diona felt her head spinning. "But Naevia..."
"Has been given new quarters next to you," Titus informed her. "She is well settled."
Kleos took her hand in his and tugged it. Diona looked down on him and smiled brightly. "Did you hear that? You are to move into my room with me."
"But why?" Kleos asked, his big brown eyes, so like his father's staring trustingly into Diona's green eyed gaze.
"Because Diona will become your mother when your father marries her," Titus said, smiling fondly at the young boy.
Kleos gasped. "Truly?"
Diona swallowed nervously. How had things gotten to this? Thoughts of what Gannicus would say flooded brain, seizing it. Diona was utterly silent as if struck moot.
"Yes truly," Titus supplied, when Diona said nothing.
Kleos let out a little whoop and threw his arms around Diona's waist and clung tightly. "The Gods have answered my prayers," he said so softly, the adults barely heard him, but they did, and each one reacted to his words.
Diona's eyes watered and she could not help but hug the boy back and smile. "Mine too, Kleos," she admitted, fearful, yet shivering with something akin to joy as well.
As for Titus and Oenomaus they shared a look that said they were both pleased at this outcome.
After Diona and Kleos left to gather the boy's things and move them to Diona's room, Titus signaled for Oenomaus to sit with him. The elder Batiatus poured them each a glass of wine before he retook his seat behind his desk.
"Your words broke true," he said to his doctore. "He is sharing his bed with Diona as well."
Afraid Titus was about to speak poorly of his brother, Oenomaus hastened to respond. "But I believe he does so—"
Titus waved a hand, interrupting his Oenomaus' defense of the blonde gladiator. "Yes, yes, I believe you are right, old friend," Titus admitted. "He does so to strike love for Octavia from mind," The elder Batiatus sighed "Diona appeared ready to flee when I told her he would marry her in handfast ceremony. She worries over his reaction."
The doctore let out a sigh. "He will most likely chafe at the demand, Dominus," Oenomaus predicted, "but it matters not. His love is doomed. I would not see him fall to such fate."
"In that we agree. It is a dangerous thing loving a woman not your own, it is doomed to fail! I am placing future of this House on Gannicus. He must be set to proper path. I would see problem solved with ceremony between he and Diona."
Oenomaus leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms across his powerful chest. "In truth, I had hoped to find another way, Dominus. I feel as if I betrayed trust in some manner, but he told me he could not absent her from mind, and I could see my brother suffering under his burden, and he obviously desires Diona..."
The old man interrupted the Doctore's talk of remorse. "Strike guilt from mind, Oenomaus. You chose only path in coming to me with this dilemma. Gannicus has proven to be a champion the people love and admire. We must do what we can to see he stays that way." He turned to Oenomaus; his brow raised in concern. "Imagine for a moment, the shit storm that would follow revelation of Gannicus enamored with a Roman noble?!" He ran a hand down weary face. "Jupiter's cock! Or worse, imagine her fucking brother's reaction to such news!" Titus shuddered in thought of it. "He would be here at the very doors of my ludus to burn it fucking down Oenomaus! I cannot have it. Quintus has overstepped this time, and I must bring this ludus back to proper path."
"I would see it so as well," Oenomaus agreed. He did not know what, but ever since Varis had visited and Ulpius had attacked him, something felt off about the ludus and all within. It was there, a sinister whisper, just out of sight; Oenomaus would not have it so. "Let us return to proper path, Dominus."
"And we shall," the old man said with a smile. "Once Gannicus accepts ill-fated love lost, he can focus mind on new wife and victories in the arena for the House of Batiatus."
"A thing most worthy of his attentions," Oenomaus agreed, even as he inwardly worried over Gannicus' reaction to being ordered to take a wife. He feared his friend would balk...
"Now..." Titus said, interrupting the Doctore's inner musings. The elder Batiatus poured them some more wine. "What of Crixus. You have done well with the Gaul. How goes his training?"
Palatine Hill: Aurelius City Domus.
Gannicus was restless. He could find no comfort in Morpheus' arms after the day he had, it was no surprise he left bed to seek means to distract mind. Secrets once in dust and shadows had been brought to light; it worried him to no end. Aurelius' trust of his salves had extended to Batiatus' gladiators and Gannicus had been pleasantly surprised to find the gladiators' lodging absent guards. He left the small domus and made his way to the amphitheater. As he approached the circular structure, he was surprised to see a lone figure standing just outside the short wall that separated one side of the arena from the seating area. Even from some distance, she was easily recognizable. He would know her form anywhere.
Melitta.
He paused, eyes searching the darkened grounds quickly to determine if they were indeed alone outside before he continued towards her.
As if sensing his presence, she turned. Her soft smile balm to troubled heart and mind.
His pace sped up and within moments he had her in his arms. "Melitta," he whispered, burying his face in her dark locks for a moment, inhaling her scent. "It is as if the Gods have delivered you to me in time of need," he said, sliding a hand into her hair at the nape of her neck and taking her lips in a heated kiss.
His name was a breathless cry as she tunneled slender fingers into his shaggy hair and returned his ardor in kind. Desires held in check exploded and for several long moments, they gave into the intense passion between them, togues mating wildly as they allowed themselves to enjoy shared touch.
Finally, she sighed into his mouth and reluctantly pulled away. "We must heed caution," she whispered, breath ragged as she tried to regain sense.
Gannicus rested his forehead against hers, his heart pounded as he sucked in deep breaths to still raging lust. "I would, yet the pressing desire to taste your lips causes thoughts of caution to flee mind," he teased, brushing one more kiss upon her lush mouth.
She moaned, but when he would have deepened kiss again, Melitta tore herself from his grasp. "Let it seize brain now before we are discovered!"
He did not push her further. Instead, he gently took her chin in hand and tilted her head back so he could meet her beautiful dark eyes. "I nearly lost mind today when that pig suggested Duratius take you."
"I noticed," she replied, a small frown marring her smooth brow. "I believe your Roman mistress took note of aggrieved expression as well." She stroked her thumb along his beard roughened cheek. "You must be more careful, Gannicus. If she were to ever suspect..." She could not go on; the thought too frightening.
Her dream of months past still haunted. It caused suffocating fear to grip her within its deadly claws when she turned thought to it. The expression on the woman's face when (in dream) they were discovered making love was a thing she would not soon (if ever) forget. Her palms would ache as if nails driven into hands were real, not faded visuals of a dream and Gannicus' screams, begging her to "breathe" as she was crucified brought her to tears every single time she allowed mind to visit memory. It was most horrible nightmare; she had no desire to make it reality."
"Do not take me to task, Melitta," he said. "I did not attack the man, which is what I wanted. Trust words. My reaction could be worse."
"And, if she asks what distressed you so? What will you say then?"
Gannicus had already put mind to just this question, so he had answer at ready. "I place guilt upon her shoulders by reminding her that you had been treated harshly by her hand in days past, unfairly so, and I stand troubled to see it happening yet again."
Her eyes widened. "You have given this thought."
He nodded, cupping her cheek within his hand. "I have," he told her. "Does not hurt cause that I speak truth either."
She rubbed her cheek against his calloused hand for a moment before she removed his hand and pressed a soft kiss to his palm. "You are to open the festival tomorrow," she stated, a gentle smile curling her lips.
He snorted, rolling his eyes. "Carrying harp and riding in fucking chariot!"
"It is an honor to represent Apollo, Gannicus. One you should not scoff at."
He gave her a crooked grin. "Again, you take me to task like errant youth." He sighed, raking a hand through his hair. "Apologies. You are right. It is an honor, but I would prefer to be in the arena, upon the sand. You know this."
She did indeed. "Which you will do at week's end in the Primus," she reminded him with a smile. "Or have you forgotten under the strain of carrying your harp?"
He chuckled huskily. "Ah. Your tongue grows sharp." He wagged heavy brows at her. "Perhaps I shall find something more pleasurable for it to do than scold me."
She laughed. "How can that be when I find scolding you to be quite pleasurable?"
His answering laughter was a bit louder than she thought wise, so she clapped her hand over his mouth. "You are determined to have us discovered" she hissed, but her dark eyes sparkled, and she was smiling.
They both knew they should be returning to their beds; before they truly were discovered.
"I must go," she said, her reticence at leaving him obvious.
"I wish I could lift you in my arms..."
She placed a finger over his lips, halting his too tempting words. "Do not speak of it presently. It will simply hurt heart to hear it."
She stood on tip toe and brushed a kiss across his lips. "Good luck tomorrow."
It took every bit of his will to let her go, but he did. "Gratitude but save wishes of good fortune for when I will need it upon the sands, not riding in chariot like a child," he said it with a grin, daring her to chastise him yet again.
She rolled her eyes at him. "And with that I will say good night," she told him turning to leave.
Gannicus watched her go, a lusty smile curved his lips as his eyes were drawn to her naked back and the enticing curve of her rounded ass.
Melitta could feel his gaze. "Oh, and Gannicus..." she added over her shoulder, "keep eyes in skull tomorrow. I would hate to see you tumble from chariot... like a child,"
He chuckled softly, thoroughly enjoying their banter. She never failed to ensure his hubris did not become too overbearing.
"Good night," he whispered softly, his eyes following her form until she disappeared, swallowed up by the night.
Gannicus turned to headed for his quarters, wishing for the day when he would no longer have to see her from his embrace. He recalled Batiatus' words of past regarding purchasing Melitta's papers. A small smile appeared on his handsome face as he entered his room within the small domus.
"One day," he said to himself as he stripped off his subligaria and fell to his bed. He had a big day tomorrow, and Gannicus would see his meeting the Roman public in best of forms. Gaining their adoration was first step to freedom for himself and those he loved.
Later that night:
Aurelius Domus: Octavia's apartment:
Claudius sat at the foot of Octavia's massive bed, watching his wife as her body slave helped Octavia remove her outer robes. "He asked for Lucretia's slave to fuck one of the gladiators?!"
Octavia nodded. She had not wanted to have this conversation, but her husband was many things, absent minded was not among them. As soon as valued guests departed, he had demanded explanation for earlier.
"And Hector and Illiana... what did he ask of them?" he demanded to know, brow raised, blue eyes sharp as he met her green-eyed gaze.
And here it was, the question she had been dreading. Claudius had care for Hector. "Claudius, you must understand..."
It must have been there in her eyes because he exploded, leaping from her bed with a curse. "Jupiter's fucking cock!" he snarled, livid. He began pacing Octavia's apartment like a caged lion. "In my own fucking house! He would take my trust and return it soiled beyond repair!"
Octavia wrung her hands, not at all interested in seeing her brother and her husband finally settle who would best who. "Claudius, lower voice. He is still present."
He rounded on her, his blue eyes dark and stormy. He was angrier than Octavia had seen him in many years. "Think you, I give one fuck, Tavia?!" He slammed his hand on the table in her lounge area by her balcony where he was currently pacing. "I am fucking Consul. I will suggest we need him in Hispania to help with Sertorius. I shall have him reporting to fucking Pompey (6) for the next year if he thinks he can enter my domus and unseat me as master."
Octavia went to him quickly, utterly terrified at the rage he was showing. "My love, what seizes brain to cause you to lose vaunted self-control?" she asked, leading him to the end of her bed. She sat and pulled him down to sit next to her. Lovingly, she ran her thumb along his jaw, soothing the beast that was raging in Claudius presently. "I have never seen you so, and Lucius has given cause in past. Come break words and see sour mood sweetened by care from loving wife."
Claudius shook his head, explaining about Tullius and now Lucius. "I am going to have to kill one, if not both of them, Tavia and I do not favor it. Unlike them, I am not a monster, but I will become one to protect those near and dear to me."
Normally, Octavia might suggest something raunchy to change mood, but she could see he needed more from her this night. "Come, see yourself to bed," she said, Calling Anya forth to help him remove his robes.
"Do you not plan to have Gannicus tonight?" he asked, assuring her he would understand.
"Nonsense," she said, instructing Anya to "remove robes, even if he says no," she teased.
The expression on his face spoke volumes. He wanted to be with her this night and Octavia needed him to know how important he was to her.
When his outer clothing was also removed, Octavia and Claudius got into bed together, his head rested upon her breast, and she simply held him, stroking his face and placing loving kisses to his brow as she reaffirmed to him, she would always be by his side.
Okay, so here are some of the things in this story that are true historical events that took place in the time period, and others, I have simply taken creative license:
(1) From everything I have read during my research of this story,Mamertino di Milazzo was, in fact Julius Ceasar's favored wine. There are both white and red versions of this wine. I decided to go with red.
(2) According to Dionysius of Halicarnassus, Greek Historian 1st century BC, the Pompa Circensis was the procession and parade that proceeded the ceremonies of the Ludi Appolinares, as well as other Ludi festivals of meaning that were held in Rome at the Circus Maximus.
(3) The Sertorian War was a civil war fought in the Roman Republic in 80 BC to 72 BC.
(4) Lucius Cornelius Cinna did indeed try and seize control of Rome before Sulla's successful bid to take control of the city in 80 BC
(5) The Emerita Augusta was built in a Roman colony founded by Emperor Augusta. The amphitheater in Merida Spain, was built in 16-15 BC and the ruins are still there for people to see.
The amphitheater was built long after Gannicus and Spartacus' time, so I took creative license to include it in this fic, hope you guys don't mind, but I do enjoy including actual events and/or places in the story... so sue me! LOL You can't coz I make no money off this. ha-ha-ha
(6) Gnaeus Pompeius Magnus or Pompey the Great as he was known, was in Hispania during the Sertorian War from 79BC until the Spartacus revolt in 73BC.
Thank you again everyone. If you would, click that review button and leave me a word regarding thoughts of this story. :)