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 bad words and smut! If that is not your cup of tea, turn back now. Although, if cussing and nude scenes offend, are you sure you're a fan of Spartacus?! ;) Hehehe. Kidding. Anyhow, you've been warned.
Pairings: There are multiple pairings, and Gannicus has more than one partner in this story, however, Gannicus/Melitta is endgame. If reading Gannicus with multiple pairings offends you, again, turn back now.
A/N: This story has been rewritten, so, do not be surprised if much has changed if you have already read this.
Chapter 5: damnatio ad bestias: Condemnation to the Beasts or AKA: Thrown to the Lions.
Capua: Nester's Shop
Titus Batiatus took a seat across the table from Tullius. He was not sure why he had been summoned here today—as far as he knew he and Tullius had already come to terms and no further discourse was required. However, he showed none of his confusion and greeted Tullius warmly, happily accepting the offer of honeyed wine as he took his seat.
"I am glad you decided to meet with me," Tullius said, smiling and pouring both himself and Titus a goblet of wine. "I have sent word to Varis, explaining Gannicus's inability to compete in his Primus."
"Quintus was to do that," Titus said with a frown, even as he offered thanks for the wine.
"Surely you understand my reticence in awaiting him to do the honor."
Titus chuckled and took a sip from his cup. "Sadly, I do," he said with a sigh, "I fear errant son has much to learn about conducting honorable business dealings."
"Speaking of business dealings…I would discuss the matter of Gannicus with you."
"You still seek to purchase the man?"
"I do," Tullius said with a nod.
Titus shook his head in confusion. "My son thinks him a champion to stand above all others." He shook his head. "He is skilled, as is all my stable. However, when I left, Gannicus inspired more laughter than awe. He spent his time tipping drink and rutting between the thighs of the many whores who sought his favor rather than earning respect in the arena…now I return to find he is being hailed 'God of the Arena' and desired by all of Capua!"
Tullius chuckled. "Surprisingly, your son and I are in agreement on the matter of Gannicus's worth. The man is a wonder, Titus, and I would seek to return favor to your house should we come to terms on agreement of sale."
"What is it you offer?"
"A thousand denarii, a return to prime position in future games—including opening games of the new arena, and the allowance of past grievances to be buried between us."
Titus's eyes bulged comically. "A thousand denarii!" he sputtered, hacking furiously as he choked on the wine he had been sipping. He coughed into a rag for several seconds before he managed to calm down enough to speak again. "Tullius, that is more than double the bid you submitted to Quintus." He shook his head. "Why do you offer such a sum for the man?"
Tullius shrugged. "I believe he is worth every denarii. If you agree to terms, all mistakes made in your absence would be rectified and at substantial reward to your ludus."
"It is a more than generous offer…"
"One I would not have you make decision upon today," Tullius said, rising from his seat. "I will seek you out after the games so that you may give me your answer then."
Titus recognized he was being dismissed. He set aside his wine and stood as well. "And I will have it ready."
Tullius offered a smug smile. "I am certain with more reasonable minds in charge, we will come to an arrangement suitable to us both," he said, escorting Titus to the curtained entryway. He parted the curtain for Titus to exit. "Until then," the blonde merchant said before he let the curtain drop, leaving Titus standing outside the establishment, a humble look of gratitude on his weathered face.
*8*
Several minutes into their "performance", Gannicus felt Melitta shudder, her inner walls rippled and pulsed around him and the sudden onslaught of delicious wetness flooding her channel signaled her release. It was heavenly, and he quickly sought his own satisfaction. With determined purpose, he focused on where they were joined and pounded into her, desperate to find that oblivion too.
"Pull out of her."
The command came out of nowhere and for several seconds he did not respond, his body was still acting on primal demands and he continued to thrust into Melitta's wet and welcoming body, eager for his own climactic finish.
"Did you hear me, slave? I said pull out!" Octavia ordered again, louder this time, rudely interrupting his rhythm.
Gannicus shuddered to a stop, chest heaving, his hands still clutching Melitta's hips as he turned to look at the woman. He blinked at her in confusion and she repeated her demand once again. Cruelly insisting he remove himself from Melitta's body—just when he was on the verge of orgasm.
"Batiatus has he gone deaf? Or is your slave's cunt so captivating he simply cannot remove cock from its depths?"
Her words finally took root in his lust fogged mind and he frowned as he realized what she wanted of him. His eyes went around the room and he noticed Batiatus glaring at him; the man's expression promised harsh consequence should he not obey. With a suffering groan of frustration, Gannicus withdrew himself. He sat back on his haunches, his entire body shivering as he clenched his fists, fighting his body's instinct that insisted a return to the sweet bliss of Melitta's gripping heat.
"Move away from her," the blonde bitch snapped.
Gannicus did not understand why the woman was torturing him and, for short time, two separate instincts warred within him: need for gratification vs. need for survival. It was only when Melitta gave a soft whimper of fear that reason returned, and survival won out; he moved away as instructed. Gannicus did not want to be crucified this day—especially in front of Melitta.
Varis chuckled. "Octavia, you have obviously spent too much time with Claudius and his political cronies…" He paused and then added, "it has turned you decidedly evil."
"Oh, she has always been evil, Varis," Cossutius said, "you have just never borne witness to it because you do not spend as much time in the city anymore."
"Do shut up," Octavia said to Cossutius. "You are interrupting the performance." The Roman woman turned back to Gannicus. "Come gladiator. Kneel before us so that we may gaze upon the wonder of you so aroused and ready."
Hatred surged within him, but he choked it down. Gannicus wanted (more than anything) to tell the demanding cunt to go fuck herself but he risked dire consequence should he do something so foolish. He clenched his fists and took several deep, calming breaths before forcing himself to do her bidding.
Octavia made a sound of pleasure as she gazed upon Gannicus's golden body; he was painfully aroused. "Gods, Priapus has truly favored this gladiator," she murmured, licking her lips, eyes devouring his body, particularly his erection.
"Agreed. The man is a beautiful beast with a cock worthy of the Gods. Now, would you care to explain why you have caused coitus interruptus just as climax was upon us?" Varis asked. With his hand still under robes, it was unclear whether he meant Gannicus' climax or his own.
"Indeed," Cossutius joined in, "A question I am asking as well. Is it the gladiator you seek to punish or us?" he asked, teasingly.
"There is no punishment, just a pause to savor sight rarely seen. Have you ever beheld such perfection?" she asked to the room in general.
Varis' gaze was lecherous and hungry as he raked Gannicus with his eyes. "No, I have not. As you said earlier, even Adonis would envy one such as he," the nobleman admitted, licking his lips as his eyes roamed Gannicus' naked, aroused physique.
Gaia took a sip of her drugged wine. "Surely you are not going to leave the poor man in such a state," she glanced to Octavia, feeling a twinge of sympathy for Gannicus. "After all, he finishes quite spectacularly."
Cossutius chuckled evilly. "Of course, she would, as I said, Octavia can be a cruel bitch when she chooses. It is what makes her such an asset to Claudius. Isn't that right, dear?"
Octavia rolled her eyes. "It is also what makes me dangerous when crossed."
Cossutius merely laughed and Octavia wrinkled her nose at him. "Idiot," she muttered, "I'm not leaving him unfulfilled. Where is the fun in that? I merely desired to test his self-control. To see if he could remove cock from cunt and not spill seed," she said her gaze resting on Gannicus. "And he has passed test and earned reward." She snapped her fingers. "Turn gaze towards me, Gannicus," she said softly.
Gannicus had been doing his best to ignore their crude comments but turned his head when commanded to do so. His eyes were deep and dark with lust, frustration and anger.
"Would you like an end to your discomfort?"
He hesitated a moment before he gave a brief nod of his head. Yes, he would like this to end. He would have preferred it to have never fucking happened!
"You have given a magnificent showing and deserve relief. Place her in whichever position you desire and have leave to take your pleasure."
With shaky hands Gannicus helped Melitta to her knees. If the woman was giving him choice in the matter, the position he would prefer was Melitta, on her feet and walking away from this debauchery. He would (most definitely) be punished, but at least Melitta would have a reprieve for the night.
He made move to rise, but Melitta realized his intent and wrapped her arms around his neck, keeping him on the floor kneeling with her. Before he could pull away, she pressed close, her mouth by his ear. "She has offered you a gift. To return it unappreciated will bear unfortunate consequence. It is you they seek to observe, not me. Therefore, it is your completion that must be realized before this does end," she told him softly. She stroked a hand along his jaw. "Please do not sacrifice yourself for my benefit. It is not what I want."
Gannicus brushed the hair back from her face to look into her eyes. "What do you want?"
Melitta swallowed thickly. "I am weak. I want what I cannot have."
Gannicus closed his eyes, pain and pleasure warring within him. "Melitta…"
She gathered together the tattered remains of her dignity. "Now is not the time to speak of these things. They want their performance and your flogging will not change circumstance." Her big, dark eyes filled with tears. "Please…do not give them reason to hurt you."
Gannicus could not stand to see her so. She was right. He knew that, yet he had hoped to spare her any further humiliation. "Forgive me," he whispered as he gently laid her upon her back under him.
Their eyes met and Melitta nodded her understanding as she reached up to take hold of his shoulders, pulling him down to lie atop her. "I do," she murmured quietly in return.
His gaze softened, becoming tender as he settled himself between her thighs. He gripped himself in hand and with a soft groan, buried himself within the delicious heat of her body once again.
He paused, giving himself time to gain control over his libido, which demanded he pound into her as hard and fast as possible to achieve long awaited release, but Gannicus could not. She felt too good to rush. With slow, deliberate thrusts, he moved within her, never taking his eyes from her face.
Melitta's hands went to his sides, her nails scraping his flesh as those incredible sensations he caused within her body began to overwhelm senses again.
Without thought, he leaned down and captured her lips with his own, growling deep in his throat as she returned his kiss with equal abandon, just as she returned his embrace with a likeminded fervor.
The passion between them was erotic and exhilarating, and for the second time that night, they allowed the intensity of that ecstasy free reign, carrying them away, until it took flight and soared them to the heavens, far away from the prying eyes watching them.
*8*
Afterwards, while Melitta and Gannicus were redressing, Octavia approached Batiatus where he stood with Lucretia and Gaia. She surreptitiously pressed a coin purse into his palm. "Gratitude, your hospitality is greatly appreciated, as was your man's performance." She turned her head to observe Gannicus once again. "He is quite the champion."
Varis and Cossutius joined them.
"Indeed, he is. Can you imagine the fee he would commission in Rome?" Varis said to his fellow nobles.
"I once paid fifty denarii to watch Argonaut deflower five virgins, and I must say, he has none of the physical beauty of your man, nor was his performance as inspiring."
Octavia giggled. "Fifty denarii?!" she exclaimed. "Argonaut is a brute with a face to match. I would not spend so much coin to witness such a thing." She turned to Batiatus. "Your man, Gannicus could demand twice that amount in the capital."
The mention of Rome had Quintus' mouthwatering, however, Gannicus had never fought outside Capua. "He is unknown in Rome, despite his skills," he said sadly.
"A situation that would change quickly if he were to be presented, trust words," Varis said. "As it stands, I am pleased to have his services returned to my Primus here in Capua, as well as another marvelous performance from him tonight. Your hospitality has been well received, Batiatus."
The nobles went to take their leave, but before she left, Octavia paused. "I have a proposition for you, Batiatus. I would call on you tomorrow, if that is convenient?"
"Of course. I am at your disposal, as is my man, Gannicus."
A slow smile curled her lips. "You speak upon my very thoughts." She said her goodbyes to both Gaia and Lucretia. "Until tomorrow then." And with that the three nobles departed the villa, leaving Quintus, Lucretia and Gaia to celebrate the return of the Primus, and perhaps even greater favors from Octavia Severus.
He opened the hand containing the purse. He hefted it in his palm, marveling at its weight.
"What is that, Quintus?" Lucretia asked.
Gaia had witnessed Octavia's subtle gesture. She chuckled. "Gannicus' fee I would assume."
Batiatus opened the purse and his eyes widened. "Jupiter's cock! There has to be at least fifty denarii here!"
The three of them quickly began to peruse the contents.
Across the room, Gannicus could not help but overhear their words. The woman had paid for their services as if he and Melitta were whores to be pimped out for her pleasure!
He turned gaze to Melitta and the heightened color on her cheeks said she was feeling as embarrassed as he was. "Melitta," he said quietly. "I have no words that would stand sufficient in expressing how fucking sorry I am."
She shook her head. "The blame lies not with you. It lies with them," she whispered, her eyes going to where the three Romans stood. "But we must never speak of what transpired between us, Gannicus. To do so would bring nothing but heartache to a man we both love."
Gannicus nodded, but before he could reply, Batiatus' exclamation of "sixty fucking denarii!" was heard across the atrium, drawing both Melitta's as well as Gannicus' attention back to the three Romans.
Batiatus went to Gannicus. "You have regained the Primus. Varis was most pleased you were not truly injured."
Gannicus frowned. "I was unaware he believed I was. Is that why I lost position previously?"
Batiatus shrugged, unwilling to discuss the machinations of the affair with his gladiator. "A misunderstanding. Strike it from thought and instead see yourself to glory in the Vinalia. And in the doing, find opportunity presented that could see us beyond the arena here in Capua."
With that he called a guard over to return Gannicus to the ludus. The blonde gladiator allowed himself one last glance at Melitta before being led away, his emotions a roiling mess after this latest encounter between them.
*8*
That night Gannicus was sitting on his cot, his mind still reeling over the events of the day.
Batiatus said he had been given the Primus back, yet the price had been another degrading act for Melitta and himself, the likes of which made him sick and (to his shame) excited simultaneously; it was a most confusing state. He had finished his last jug of wine and was debating getting another to soothe his troubled mind when Oenomaus came to his cell carrying an amphora and two cups in hand.
The big man paused upon entering his cell. "We have not tipped drink in some time. I would share with an old friend," he said holding up the wine. When Gannicus did not respond, Oenomaus sighed and came to sit next to Gannicus on his cot. "I would not see circumstance beyond our control come between us, brother."
Oenomaus poured them each a cup, but Gannicus shook his head, refusing the offering. He could not drink with him right now. His conflicted emotions were too fierce.
"You will not share drink with me?"
Pain was etched across the older man's face and Gannicus turned away, unable to meet his dearest friend's gaze. "I am finished with drink tonight. Now that I know I will be in the games, I must be prepared."
Oenomaus chuckled. "This from the man who once asked me to smuggle a jug into the arena?!"
Gannicus squirmed under his gaze. The guilt was so thick within his chest and throat…he was nearly gagging on it. "Things have changed since that day," he said wearily.
"Is it things that have changed…or us? Do you now resent me my position?"
The realization that Oenomaus was taking their newfound distance upon himself sickened Gannicus. "The fault does not lie with you, brother…it is mine. I am merely tired and turn thoughts to the games."
Oenomaus looked doubtful, but he respected Gannicus's wishes to be left alone. He set the jug on the floor. "If you change mind…" he said rising to his feet, "You know where to find me."
Gannicus watched his brother leave before turning his gaze to the wine left behind. He glared at it a moment before looking away, his chest aching with conflicted desires. He wanted Melitta desperately, but the thought of hurting Oenomaus ripped him up inside. He fell back on his bed, an arm thrown over his eyes as he contemplated the fucking shit storm his life had become. It seemed hopeless and he did not see a way clear of his circumstance without destroying himself and everyone he had ever loved!
*8*
The next morning, Quintus was surprised to have Naevia awaken him from slumber to inform him he had a guest awaiting him in the atrium.
"Go away," he ordered.
Naevia hesitated. "But Dominus…"
Thinking it had to be his father summoning him since he was the only person Quintus knew who conducted business before the morning meal, Batiatus pulled the covers over his head. "Tell my father I will arise shortly. Until then, remove yourself from fucking sight, Naevia!"
"Your father left for Capua earlier this morning, Dominus. It is—"
Batiatus did not allow her to finish. "Aaargh!" he snarled, throwing back the covers when he realized it must be important for Naevia to not remove herself after he gave direct order to do so. "Who the fuck would call upon a person at this hour?" he grumbled but crawled from his bed anyhow.
"It is the woman from yesterday," Naevia said.
That sparked Batiatus' interest immediately. "Why did you not fucking begin with that statement?" he bit out, rushing to get his robes on now that he knew Octavia awaited.
Lucretia opened one eye from their bed. "Quintus, what is it? Why are you from bed?"
He leaned down and placed a kiss upon her lips. "Octavia has decided to pay visit before dew has even formed on grass."
Lucretia started to sit up. "Octavia is here! Do you need my assistance?"
"I wouldn't dream of snatching you from Morpheus' arms at such an hour," he told her with a smile. "Remain in bed. I will see her needs met."
Lucretia nodded happily and fell back to bed while Quintus hurried out to the atrium to greet his esteemed, yet early rising guest.
*8*
Gannicus had barely exited his cell when Oenomaus called him away from the yard.
"You are to be prepared for private viewing within the villa," the Doctore said, his face impassive and giving away nothing of what Gannicus was being summoned for.
Gannicus looked to the guards awaiting him and nodded, resigned to his fate by now. It had only been the day prior that he and Melitta had performed for the Romans, yet apparently, they were back for more. Trepidation filled his breast, but he spoke not a word, he simply followed the guards to the bathing room where two slave girls were waiting to bathe him and rub sweet scented oil into his flesh to make him especially attractive to the Roman eye.
A short while later, Gannicus was led upstairs to the villa, and he could not help but compare this to the last two times he was summoned so. As usual he was made desirable for both sight and touch, yet this time he had been presented with a new subligaria to wrap around his waist and cover his loins. It was a deep indigo blue (an expensive dye) and bordered with threads of gold. The cloth was of a material so fine and silky, it caressed the flesh and Gannicus was surprised at the gift considering Batiatus was not possessed with large amounts of coin. Perhaps it had come as result of fucking earnings from yesterday! After all, the Dominus had been given sixty fucking denarii for his and Melitta's services. It sickened him. What would be asked of him for this luxury? Were he and Melitta to become daily sport for the Romans to watch? At sixty denarii a show, Gannicus had no doubts that could very well become possibility; the thought made his stomach twist with unease.
He was escorted to the triclinium where Dominus awaited him just outside the curtains that gave the area privacy. Batiatus was smiling and that made Gannicus even more nervous.
"You have elevated this house today beyond all measure," he said.
Gannicus paused, a frown marring his brow. What was the man blathering on about? "I have?" he asked, "In what manner?" Gannicus was confused. What act he could have performed so early in his day which had been exceptional enough to elevate the House?
"You have drawn the interest of Octavia Aurelius Severus," Batiatus replied, a smug smirk twisting his lips.
A sickening sense of dread slithered its way within him, making his stomach cramp with tension. "The Roman woman from yesterday?"
Batiatus nodded and Gannicus felt the unpleasant sensation move from his stomach to his limbs. His knees felt weak. Not her! The woman was sadistic! He did not want her attentions focused upon himself, nor Melitta.
Batiatus was raving on, oblivious to the apprehension of his champion. "Octavia is sister to Lucius Angelus Severus—one of the most powerful dictators in the Republic, assigned the position by Sulla himself. Her husband is a fucking Consul, Gannicus. There is no greater position held. Aurelius is rich as Midas and gives free reign for his wife to speak in his stead and spend his coin where she sees fit. The woman has great influence, not only here in Capua, but in Rome as well. She so appreciated the demonstration you gave…she requests to sponsor you."
"Sponsor me?" Gannicus was surprised. "She is to enlist me for her games?" he asked hopefully.
Quintus hedged, and the hope drained from Gannicus's eyes.
Of course, it was more than that.
"She has broached subject of requesting you for future games, yes, but she has other interests as well. Ones that lie towards a more intimate fashion."
"Intimate?" It was as he feared, and he took a deep breath to calm himself. "I am to lie with Melitta again?"
"Not exactly."
Gannicus sighed resignedly. He wanted to throw up. "I am to lie with this woman then." It was a statement said with heavy heart.
"If that is what she requires of you. Do you have a fucking problem with that?" Quintus snapped, his expression and manner clear—Gannicus had no say in this at all.
Gannicus lowered his eyes lest Batiatus see the rebellion there. He was angry. It appeared the House of Batiatus now rented out their Gladiators as whores! Apparently, that was common in Rome, yet Gannicus had never witnessed the like before Varis' visit. However, instead of voicing his displeasure with the events, he kept his head bowed. "No Dominus," he said softly.
The distress was clear in Gannicus's voice and Quintus sought to rouse the man into seeing the opportunity presented. "Gannicus, look at me." The gladiator slowly raised his head and his expression said it all. Batiatus rolled his eyes. "You fucking scowl as if I am asking you to do something unnatural! You spend much of your winnings on wine and cunt anyhow! The woman is a noble, and if you have not noticed, quite enticing to the eyes." He paused and took a breath to calm himself. "Do you recall last night when I told you there was opportunity to go beyond Capua?"
Gannicus gave a brief nod. "I do."
He pointed towards the triclinium. "That woman presents such an opportunity. Satisfy her and it could mean representing this House in the games at the Circus Maximus—in fucking mother Rome herself! Think about that before you set your mind to repudiating arrangement."
Gannicus's eyes widened as only one part of Batiatus's rant caught his attention. "I would fight in Rome?" It was said in a whisper.
"It is a possibility," Batiatus said, grinning now in excitement as Gannicus hopefully saw the prospects allowed. "You favor the fucking sound of that, do you not?"
He did. Gannicus could not deny it. "And lying with this woman will clear path to such event?
Gannicus barely managed not to snort his disbelief. It sounded like a fool's dream. Did Batiatus not recall the Romans were not discussing his skills in the arena yesterday when they mentioned what Batiatus could charge for him in Rome? The man had lost mind, blinded by the woman's coin, he now sought to gain her favor by any means necessary.
"She has connections in the capital that are beyond what we can comprehend," Batiatus was saying, drawing Gannicus' attention back to his words. "She favors you, Gannicus. Securing her patronage could see true glory for both the House of Batiatus and yourself. Think of it, Champion of Capua…and then Rome!"
Batiatus was spouting fantasy as if plied with too much drink. Gannicus could not imagine that woman—who had treated him and Melitta so callously just a day past—granting this house such gifts just to have the pleasure of his cock. It was beyond absurd! More likely, she desired opportunity to present him in Rome as a novelty, a pet gladiator she could then pass around to her friends like a party favor! However, he kept such thoughts to himself, unable to argue the matter. He was a slave, his acquiesce was not needed. Prior experience with Batiatus had proven that, despite his wishes, if the woman decided she wanted to fuck him—it would happen. If he refused, Dominus could, and more than likely would, simply have him stripped naked and delivered to her bed in shackles!
He would salvage what was left of injured pride and simply agree. "I will see it done," he said, giving a quick nod of his head as he mentally prepared himself for whatever the woman would ask of him.
A/N: Click the review button, let me know what you think. :)