In Veritas Memento

by tgjluvsbadboys

The story begins after "Missio" but veers into an A/R of GotA afterwards. In my version, Gannicus is not removed from the Vinalia by Titus & he does not lose to Crixus. Instead, Gannicus & Melitta face their feelings for each other as he becomes true champion of Capua & the House of Batiatus. *warnings* Much like the show, there is smut & foul language included in this story.

8. Chapter 8: esse est percipi: To be is to

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 8: esse est percipi: To be is to be perceived.

From his seat in the men's dining area, Gannicus watched young Kleos skip happily away. He used to feel that carefree. No longer. He took another sip of his milk, appreciating having it to wash down his food, but unwilling to read too far into Melitta's reasoning behind the offer. A glass of goat's milk each morning was something she had quietly done for him and Oenomaus (when she could) for many years; she had only stopped sending it after Varis' first visit. Perhaps, she simply wanted life to return to as much normalcy as possible. He could relate to the sentiment.

At the thought of Oenomaus, his gaze sought the man out, standing tall, yet still unsure in his role as Doctore. Oenomaus had wanted to talk the other night and usually they would have sat and drank, laughing and talking until they had gotten whatever needed to be discussed off their chests. But now, Gannicus could not offer needed encouragement and it was eating him up inside. He thought of his meeting with Melitta earlier. He would have betrayed his brother without force or coercion had she not come to her senses and ended their tryst. Guilt welled up, choking him and it made swallowing the last of his meal difficult. Oenomaus was a man he held dear to heart and while he should be supporting him in this adjustment, he could not due to past transgressions.

Not to mention, the ones he still yearned for.

Sick with himself, Gannicus pushed his food aside, unable to finish the last few bites in his present mood. Oenomaus deserved better than a dishonorable man such as himself as brother. He was about to rise, when (as if conjured from his own wicked thoughts) Gannicus glanced up to see the man himself suddenly in front of him, sitting down upon the bench across from where he sat.

"You should not sit with lower men," Gannicus said, hoping to avoid conversation. "You are Doctore now."

"I am worried my elevated position has come between us and I would not have it so," Oenomaus replied, taking a seat at the table despite Gannicus' words of warning.

Gannicus sighed. "Nor would I," he admitted, yet he feared it would be inevitable, but not for the reasons Oenomaus thought.

"I saw you speaking with young Kleos. You have never spoken to the child. It warms heart to see you reaching out to him."

"I do not know the boy, but he wishes to stand as gladiator someday," Gannicus said with a grin. "That is a thing I can understand and relate to."

Oenomaus chuckled. "It should not surprise he wishes to take up arms upon the sands," the Doctore said with a fond smile.

Gannicus shrugged, puzzled at Oenomaus' happiness at him breaking words with the kitchen boy. Perhaps his old friend was pleased because it was an unselfish act, unlike other actions of late, such as trying to fuck the man's wife just an hour previously. That thought caused Gannicus' brows to lower sharply in self-reproach.

Oenomaus immediately took note of Gannicus' sour expression. "You are in the Primus tomorrow. A most honorable position, and yet you bear scowl upon brow as if you had been excluded from the games. What troubles you so?"

Gannicus's eyes darted away from his brother's far too knowing gaze. "There are things given for the wrong reasons, brother," he said softly. "This house weighs heavy upon my heart of late."

"Then break words and see burden lifted," Oenomaus replied, offering his ear and counsel.

If only he could, but for every injury Batiatus had meted out, the sting of his own betrayal cut just as deep. It was too complicated and there were no words he could speak that would not bring equal shame upon himself. "I would not seek to lay my troubles upon you, Oenomaus," he said finally. "You have enough of your own worries without adding my own to your burden."

With a heavy sigh, Gannicus stood, picked up the tray and turned to leave, but Oenomaus was quick to his feet as well. He grabbed Gannicus's arm, halting his exit. "There is no burden when trusted brother needs guidance."

"Brother is a title I fear I no longer deserve. Just as I do not deserve this Primus." He pulled his arm free and started to walk away.

"Gannicus!" the Doctore snapped and the ring of authority in his voice that made Gannicus stop and turn warily. "You speak in riddles. What do you mean brother is a title you no longer deserve? I cannot imagine what circumstance would make you believe such a thing. Break words and explain."

Oenomaus' obsidian eyes caught and held Gannicus' gaze and the blonde gladiator could not look away. But he could not break words either. For several tense moments, Gannicus said nothing and it appeared he would not answer Oenomaus' question.

"Have you lost tongue?"

"No, but I am a man whose honor has been corrupted, Oenomaus."

"You are not a man without honor. Perhaps you lack impulse control, but not honor."

"You do not believe it, because you cannot see the truth of who I am, Oenomaus. What I've done."

"What is it I cannot see? You are the Champion of this House. A feat not accomplished with one demonstration. You have earned the mantle and the reward through your many victories in the arena. You must understand that."

"Perhaps once, but what I understand presently is how these Romans have focused their attentions upon me, and to keep their favor, Batiatus has had me oiled and scented and paraded about for their viewing pleasure. That is the reason I am being rewarded. Not due to my victories in the arena."

Oenomaus' eyes widened at that comment and then he started to chuckle. "You have lost wit if you truly believe you received match in the Primus due to nothing more than your pretty face!"

Gannicus knew he had already said too much so he remained silent, keeping errant tongue behind his teeth lest he spill even darker secrets to his friend.

The Doctore believed he finally had the answer to Gannicus' funk and sought to relieve him of his worry. "Gannicus, heed my words. It is your skill with a sword that has drawn their notice, not your face or form." When Gannicus rolled his eyes at him, the bigger man pressed his argument further. "Let me ask you this… If you had lost demonstration with Crixus, do you believe your pretty face would have taken you to the Primus?"

Gannicus frowned at that, the thought had never occurred to him, but before he answered Oenomaus went on.

"And what of your match against Vettius' man in the marketplace? If Otho had defeated you, would all of Capua still speak of it? No. You would have been labeled a fool who tried to win contest absent sight and your memory would have faded quickly," Oenomaus said confidently. "It was your victory in such a contest and the skills you displayed that have these Romans taking notice, not your passably attractive face."

He said the last with a teasing smile, and for the first time, Gannicus saw a different view on his receiving the Primus in the Vinalia. "Gratitude," he told his old friend. "Although, I still believe it should be you, Oenomaus, who is more deserving of reward than myself."

Oenomaus shook his head. "No. My time has passed, and I have accepted that. It is your time to wear the mantle of Batiatus champion, Gannicus. And you do deserve such prestige. I heard Batiatus mention the Severus woman and her patronage of you. Tullius still seeks to purchase you and Varis made personal request for you to be in his games." The Doctore clapped Gannicus on the shoulder warmly. "All this attention… is it not obvious to you? These Roman's would not haggle over you, Gannicus, if you were not a prize worthy of haggling over."

His brother's words, although meant to offer support, only brought Gannicus right back to the unhappy state he had occupied when the discussion had started. "A prize…" the blonde gladiator snorted. "Yes, one bought and paid for with Severus coin." And to be delivered on tomorrow night—if he survived contest against the beast he was fighting.

Sensing Gannicus' about face in mood yet again, Oenomaus began to probe his brother with questions again. "Gannicus, what causes you such distress? Is there something more to this woman's sponsorship that you are not telling me?"

Wishing he had simply allowed discussion to end, Gannicus shrugged off Oenomaus' questions by deflecting. "It does not matter. Batiatus has accepted offer and I will yield to command absent complaint." His gaze drifted towards the yard and the other gladiators. "I appreciate your words of wisdom, Oenomaus, but I should begin training now. It is not proper for the men to see me shirk training in favor of you and I gossiping together like women."

Realizing Gannicus would speak no more on the subject, Oenomaus simply nodded, his brow creasing with concern for the man he loved like a brother, yet who now seemed as distant as a stranger.

Just then a wagon pulled up to the front gate. Guards and slaves descended upon the yard to check the contents and unload it. The two men went their separate ways, each with a feeling of unresolved conflict still twisting their insides.

*8*

With their arrangement agreed upon, Batiatus escorted Octavia to the vestibulum where Lucretia and Gaia awaited to say their farewells to the blonde Roman. They were still chatting amicably when two guards arrived from the ludus with word that a wagon had arrived.

"A wagon?" Batiatus asked, brows lowered in confusion. "From where?"

"Ah, that should be the items I spoke of earlier," Octavia said. "After I left your ludus yesterday, I took the liberty of having a few accoutrements purchased for Gannicus's comfort." She sighed. "The wagon arrives earlier than expected."

Batiatus's eyes widened. "You purchased gifts for my Champion without an agreement to terms?"

Octavia gave a dainty shrug. "I was determined to have him and would have paid far more than agreed upon price."

Quintus chuckled. "And I would have accepted less," he replied cheekily.

"Well," Gaia cut in, "it appears you have come to a compromise beneficial to you both."

"Yes, I believe we have," Octavia answered with a smirk. "I would see Gannicus has new armor for the Apolloinares. I have a man here in Capua. He designs the armor and then his slave brings his creations to life. Both men are truly gifted. Bring Gannicus to him for proper fitting and the man will create spectacular armor suitable for such a vaunted celebration."

"Do you speak of Appius?" Batiatus asked and Octavia nodded. "I know the man well." Quintus nodded happily. "His slave, Goren, does spectacular work in metal crafting. I shall call upon him and arrange a fitting."

"Very good. He must dazzle as Apollo."

"He will," Batiatus said. "You know, my father has been a patron of his shop many times in years past. In fact, when Oenomaus faced Theocoles, his armor was designed by Appius."

"I remember the match," Octavia said. "Your man showed tremendous courage when facing the Shadow of Death and was grievously wounded for his effort. Did he survive?"

Batiatus nodded. "Oenomaus is now Doctore."

"Ah. A position well suited for such a fierce and talented competitor."

Quintus preened under the praise. "That it is. His skill will make my stable of gladiators greater than ever before."

"Quite true," Octavia agreed. "There is one more thing. When I left here yesterday, I set Appius to task in putting together a parcel of various armor from his collection for Gannicus to choose from. Unfortunately, with the time constraint, it could not be tailored to fit of course, but Appius knows your man and has assured me he will send only the very best pieces he has in stock."

Lucretia and Quintus shared a quick look of stunned excitement.

"You ordered Gannicus an entire wardrobe of new armor?" Lucretia verified.

"Yes," Octavia confirmed. "The wagon from Appius' shop should arrive by nightfall. See to it that he chooses whatever he desires. The rest may be given to your other men if you like. It matters not since the merchandise has been duly purchased."

Thrilled at his good fortune, Batiatus bowed and scraped so low, he was practically kneeling at her feet to show his gratitude. "We are honored by your generosity."

She waved him off with a flick of her wrist. "No gratitude is necessary. It would please me to see him outfitted in armor befitting a Champion." She paused. "I only ask one small thing in return."

Quintus's head bobbed up and down enthusiastically. "Give it name and it shall be yours."

"I would have Gannicus attired in at least one item that bears the golden lion. As you know, he cannot carry my banner in the games tomorrow, Varis would not be pleased, but it would please me greatly to see him enter the arena wearing something that bears the proud beast that represents my House—discreetly of course."

"Of course," Lucretia said, nodding.

Satisfied her demands would be met, Octavia said her goodbyes and was leaving the villa when Titus Batiatus returned from town.

After introductions were made, Octavia smiled at the older man. "Your son is quite the lanista. I look forward to seeing Gannicus in The Apollinares this Quintillis (July)."

Titus's eyes bulged. "The Apollinares?" he wheezed, nearly choking on his surprise.

Octavia gave a regal nod. "Yes. I have acquired your man to represent Apollo in the festivals opening ceremonies and to give showing in the Primus of the final day." She smirked at Batiatus. "You should thank your son, he strikes quite the bargain."

Titus's widened gaze went to his son who puffed up like a peacock at Octavia's praise. But true to form, the elder Batiatus was hesitant to accept such accolades easily. "Gannicus has never fought outside Capua. The citizens of Rome will not have sufficient time to know the man, much less cheer for him." Titus shook his head and Quintus could not believe what he was hearing when his father said, "No. I do not believe Gannicus ready for such a prestigious event as The Ludi Apollinares. Perhaps next year."

To Quintus' silent joy, Octavia was not having it. "Nonsense," she replied disdainfully. "His name is upon every tongue here in Capua. Your Gannicus is the only gladiator in history to win a sine-missione contest while blindfolded and absent sight. Would you deny the people of Rome opportunity to witness such a marvel for themselves?"

"Of course not," the elder Batiatus hastened. "You honor this humble house. However, I fear such a match is above our station. A gladiator from Rome would surely be better suited for such storied contest."

Octavia's brow furrowed in consternation. "Why do you seek to break favorable agreement for your ludus?" she demanded, but before Titus could answer, she went on in a voice that was obviously used to command. "Is it not your purpose to see your gladiators' to glory?" Flustered, Titus bobbed his head. "Then I suggest you let me decide what is above your station as well as which gladiator my family would choose to honor the Gods."

"Apologies," Titus mumbled, wilting under her ire. "I bow to your decision and offer my humble appreciation for your generosity."

"Good," Octavia said briskly, happy to be moving on. "Now, my brother was given the honor of hosting The Romani this year. If Gannicus puts forth a fine showing in The Apollinares, I can assure Lucius will place him in contest during one of the three days dedicated to gladiatorial contests. I cannot guarantee the Primus, of course, but I am certain Gannicus will impress in the Apolloinares, assuring himself favored position."

Quintus's chest swelled. "The Romani," he breathed, his mind already contemplating the esteemed status that would come to his house by having a gladiator representing Batiatus in such an event. The Ludi Romani was the largest of all the munera held in The Republic. The celebration lasted fourteen days and hundreds of thousands attended the event daily. A contest on any day of the Romani was a true honor, but the Primus was the grandest contest a lanista could aspire to and Quintus was positively seething with excitement at the mere possibility of participating.

If Titus had his suspicions on the whys and reasonings behind this turn of good fortune, he was not foolish enough to give them voice in front of the Roman noble. "I have not words to demonstrate the gratitude we feel for such undeserved opportunity."

Octavia studied the old man for a moment, her dislike apparent. "You can desist with humble insistence of unworthiness," she replied harshly. "That, I assure you, will be gratitude enough."

Cowed, Titus lowered his head in deference to her request as well as her superior social rank. "As you wish. Gannicus will be at your service for such distinguished events."

Quintus barely kept the grin off his face to see his father—a man whose constant scowl and criticism made him feel inept—put so neatly in place. It was almost as pleasing to him as the deal he had made with Severus—almost.

"Very good." Octavia said with a regal nod to the Paterfamilias. Her smile was warmer when it landed on Quintus. "I shall see you tomorrow at the games. I await Gannicus's showing. I am certain it shall be splendorous," she said to the younger Batiatus, before taking her leave.

The door had no sooner shut behind their noble guest before Titus turned on his son, his features twisted with fury. "I am gone but a few hours and you again seek to ruin this House with your ambition! I would have fucking words," he snapped and stormed off towards his office leaving Quintus standing there with a sour expression upon his face.

"Ruin this house?!" Quintus exclaimed in shock as he turned to both Lucretia and Gaia, an expression of helpless anger upon his face. "I hand him Rome on a fucking silver platter and he reacts as if I have shit upon the name Batiatus!" he snorted. "Will he never look upon me with anything other than criticism?!"

Gaia rolled her eyes. "The man is a Gorgon with a cock! He sets disparaging scowl upon anything in path and would see it turned to stone!"

Lucretia smirked at Gaia's description of Titus as she went to her husband to offer words of comfort. "Ease mind," she told Quintus, smiling at him tenderly and kissing him on the lips. "What you have done here today is a great accomplishment. If your father does not see it, that is his misfortune. Do not let him poison this for you," she told him with another soft kiss. "You have elevated this House, and I for one, stand proud."

Batiatus immediately relaxed with her words. "If only my father were as kind as loving wife," he said. Then as he thought about Rome, the agreement he had made with Octavia and Gannicus reclaiming his spot in Varis's Primus tomorrow, and his cocky attitude came back in force. "Well, what the fuck can he do now? Varis knows Gannicus is not injured. Not even Tullius can stop him from appearing now." He grinned. "After that…The Apollinares and Rome! Thank the Gods!" he crowed, arms raised. "Finally, Tullius's cock is removed from ass! And I for one, would like to see mine firmly rammed up his for a change!"

Gaia and Lucretia both chuckled.

"Quintus!" Titus called from the other room.

Quintus rolled his eyes, his face puckering with belligerent frustration. "Fuck! Now if only we could get rid of my father…we would truly see this House rise beyond humble fucking station!" he grumbled and stalked off to receive (he was sure) yet another lecture.

*8*

Quintus entered the tablinum where his father was waiting for him, sitting behind his desk. He had no sooner shut the door when Titus let loose his anger.

"Tullius was enraged to hear Varis bore knowledge that Gannicus was uninjured," the old man growled in his gravelly tone. "I have barely healed wound only to return to my home and find you're drawing fresh blood!" Titus abruptly stood and began to pace furiously. "Octavia Severus is not a woman to trifle with, Quintus."

"I'm not trifling, father," Batiatus replied with a curl to his lip. "I'm conducting business. You see…while you were in town, humbly putting your nose up Tullius's ass, I was securing favor with one of the most powerful families in Rome. With Octavia offering us position, we will not need Tullius and his brokerage any longer."

"We have never had interest from one such as her. You have promised this woman something, and I would hear it before this goes any further."

"Why are you worried about promises made to Severus? You should be elated that such valued family sees the worth of our Champion. Gannicus will be fighting in Rome, at the fucking Apolloinares! When has the House of Batiatus ever held such vaunted position?"

"And what has your Champion accomplished to earn such honor?!" Titus asked with a sneer. "A street brawl in the marketplace does not make him a champion worthy of Rome." The elder Batiatus studied his son for a moment and it was all Quintus could do not to squirm under his harsh gaze. "You would mire this house in politics and impropriety to secure prospects above the title of Lanista. Ill-gotten gains are never well received Quintus. When will you ever learn that?"

"There were no ill-gotten gains here father. Octavia has heard talk of Gannicus and she sees in him his true worth. That is why she seeks him out—just as Varis did."

"And yet this newest scheme will bear rotten fruit just as your last one did."

"What do you mean? We still have the Primus."

"At what cost? Tullius will not forget this latest slight. You made a liar of the man when you invited Varis inside to view Gannicus."

Quintus threw his hands up in the air as he paced in front of his father's desk. "It was a fucking lie! Varis appeared upon doorstep to discuss why Gannicus would not be in his Primus. He asked to see him. What was I to do, have our best man injured just to lend truth to fucking statement?"

The absurdity of that notion forced Titus to relent somewhat. "I suppose not," he answered wearily. "However, we will have to find another way to make amends with Tullius. He insists Crixus still face Auctus in the games tomorrow."

Quintus could not believe his father was agreeing to such a demand. "Crixus is yet a recruit. He's not ready to face a gladiator of Auctus' caliber. Father, Tullius seeks to have him killed!"

Titus shrugged halfheartedly in tired acceptance. "It is true, the Gaul will more than likely fall," he said with a sigh, "and that would have satisfied Tullius's anger, but with you securing Severus's patronage…I fear the man will be out for blood."

"Fuck Tullius!" Quintus bit out enraged at the man and, truth be told, his father as well. "Ever since the man witnessed Gannicus best Vettius' fucking man he has wanted to possess him. Jupiter's cock! You cannot be this blind, father. The lunatic had me beaten near death because I refused offer, yet you would have me bend over and grab heel for deeper ramming despite the fact the man nearly killed me!"

"Had you not sought to rise above your station—"

Batiatus interrupted him with a derisive snort. "Rise above my station?!" He gave a short bitter laugh. "Father, I merely told the man I did not wish to sell Gannicus. The prick then had me beaten and pissed on! How in all the Gods is declining offer of sale rising above fucking station?!"

Titus did not answer and Batiatus shook his head. His father would never defend him. He was not going to try anymore. "No matter what you think of me as a son. Have you not wondered why Tullius wants Gannicus so badly? Gannicus is a true Champion—one that inspires the people. Tullius sees that. You wish to discuss sale of the man, yet you do not even acknowledge his worth!"

"Gannicus is not a champion I would promote," Titus replied harshly.

"In that, we are in disagreement, father," Quintus replied.

"As we are in many things. But in this you will see reason. Tullius controls Capua and its games. We must return to his good graces, no matter the cost."

Quintus gritted his teeth. "We have the patronage of Octavia fucking Severus! Who needs Tullius?"

"And what happens when she returns to Rome?" Titus asked. "Tullius will still be here. It is by his design that the new arena is being built. Gannicus will have secured position, yes, but what of our other men? If Tullius excludes them from future munera…where will they have contest? Should this ludus be reduced to providing only one gladiator to fight upon the sands?"

Quintus frowned, and Titus nodded his head, smirking. "Ah, I see amidst all your plotting and scheming you have not given that prospect any thought. Well, let it seize brain now. I would not have this ludus reduced to such position for the sake of one man. Especially one I am not certain is worth all the suffering we are experiencing to keep him."

*8*

The day of the Vinalia dawned with an overcast sky that kept the entire yard in shadows and gloom. It was barely past dawn and Gannicus was in his cell, listening (once again) as Batiatus prattled on and on about how he was "elevating" his own worth and the status of the entire fucking house by accepting the Severus woman's offer. Indeed, Batiatus had been raving for so long, Gannicus had started ignoring the man as he sat upon his bed, perusing all the gifts his benefactor had presented to him via the delivery from yesterday.

He still cringed as he recalled his shock, confusion and then embarrassment when the slaves had begun carting all the items from the wagon into his cell. The sheer enormity of the goods being unloaded had caught the entire yard's attention and all his brothers had turned to him, brows raised in question as crate after crate was deposited within his cell. He had been as confused as they were at first, until it dawned on him who was responsible for his bounty. Auctus had begun to tease him, asking who he had to fuck to receive such gifts. The man was unaware of the intimate act Gannicus had performed that morning, yet his words struck tender nerve just the same; Gannicus had been humiliated. For the rest of the day, he had remained stubbornly silent on the subject despite the questions and teasing from the rest of the men.

Barca and Auctus were the worst of the lot. Despite being favored friends, their teasing had become progressively worse throughout the day, even calling him 'King Gannicus' as they bowed to him and acted the fools. He had ignored them for as long as he could until he'd had enough and told them "to keep nose to their own fucking business or see them removed from face by his swords!". And to further prove point, he proceeded to give them both a beating upon the sands of the training yard that neither would soon forget; they did not call him 'King Gannicus' again.

The ruckus from the wagon had finally died down and Gannicus would have preferred to keep quiet regarding his sudden wealth, except the Dominus had other plans. At the end of the training day, just before the men were given the evening meal, to Gannicus' frustration, out pranced Batiatus to spill his secret and announce situation to the entire ludus, firmly adding the coup de grâce to his shame.

"As you can see, we have a new benefactor to the House of Batiatus," the man had shouted from the balcony. "Octavia Severus has decided to sponsor Our Champion. This is a tremendous accomplishment and only a gladiator with enormous skill and prowess would gain such favor and good fortune."

Gannicus had rolled his eyes as Batiatus bragged about Severus's patronage and the glory it would bring the Batiatus ludus. A few leering comments could be heard from the men, but the beating Auctus and Barca had received earlier was still fresh in mind, so most of the men kept silent, but Gannicus noticed the looks of jealousy sent his way and wished Batiatus had kept fucking mouth closed about the Severus woman and her patronage.

He had not asked for any of this and he did not want it. Yet in this, as with everything of late, he had no choice; it irritated.

*8*

If Gannicus had felt overwhelmed by the woman yesterday, he felt utterly suffocated by her presence today as he glanced around his cell, taking note of all his newly acquired luxuries. The room had been drastically altered from its once threadbare appearance, and now he truly felt like the well-kept whore he had called himself earlier—or the "King" Auctus and Barca had deemed him. His plain cot now had a feathered mattress upon it that was finer than anything he had ever laid upon. The bedding was made of linens so soft, last night he had feared he might slip off the bed entirely and end up on the floor. Silken pillows had been delivered to lay weary head upon and, to keep from catching cold in harsh winter nights, thick fur rugs covered nearly every inch of the stone floors and several more lay upon his bed as well. He had new clothes, fresh candles to light his cell and more wine than was good for a man who believed every day was a time for drink! Batiatus called it Falernian. He had never sampled the wine before but realized immediately the quality far overreached his station in life. It was delicious, and he had finished off half an amphora before he forced himself to put it away and fall to his newly acquired bed.

He resented the bribes offered by the woman who would make him her plaything! And now the woman wanted to dress him up in new armor and parade him about the arena like prized fucking pet! The enormity of the pieces she sent to him overwhelmed as well. The woman had presented him with more battle attire than he could wear in a years' worth of contests! There was so much of it, he had it scattered across his floor and upon his bed as he tried to sort through the wide variety of expensive pieces she had acquired for him. It was insane! He gritted his teeth, jaw set so tight, a muscle ticked there. This newest gift chafed already wounded pride.

To make matters worse, Batiatus had arrived at his cell a short time ago to congratulate him on his new status and had noticed Gannicus's brooding expression. Of course, much to Gannicus' dismay, the man had then insisted on helping him pick out the fucking armor from the enormous bounty strewn across his quarters.

Which was what they were doing presently.

Batiatus was sorting through it, passing anything that looked interesting to Gannicus.

When his Dominus handed him a military style cingulum, Gannicus snorted in derision and tossed it aside. "I will not wear that," he told Batiatus, uncaring if the man decided to have him lashed for insolence. "It's ridiculous and I will not be forced into the arena in…that," he finished, eyeing the garment with extreme distaste.

"It is of high quality. Military grade. The leather straps protect your waist—"

"It is a fucking skirt!"

"It is standard attire for the Republic's Army."

"A good thing I am not in the Army then," Gannicus returned smugly.

"Fine," Quintus sighed, putting the cingulum into the 'reject' pile and allowing Gannicus to have his way on the issue. However, Batiatus was determined Gannicus would wear some of the armor Octavia had graced him with. It was the one of the few things she asked, and he would see it accomplished. "What of the cuirass…?" He held up a metal breastplate that had been stained, varnished and buffed until it shone deep and black. The golden lion insignia in the center stood out brilliantly and would satisfy Octavia's desire to see the lion insignia upon Gannicus's person. "It is a fine piece of armor…"

Gannicus shook his head. "That will restrict me in the arena. It is too cumbersome," he replied, barely glancing at the piece.

Quintus dropped the heavy garment atop the ever-growing pile of armor Gannicus found unsuitable. "Well set fucking mind to finding something out of all this that is acceptable, because you will be sporting new armor from the lot—even if I have to dress you in it myself!" Quintus snapped. "I will not have you offend this woman by refusing her gifts!"

Gannicus sighed in frustration but began to reevaluate some of what he had thrown aside just the same. If he had to wear it, he would at least choose gear that made him feel at ease. He picked up several pairs of fasciae—the padding that protected his legs. "These are of a fine quality," he admitted. "They are thick and durable." He grudgingly put them in his tiny 'keep' pile. He found a set of greaves designed with the Roman symbol for Power upon the metal knee and shin guards. He liked them, he just did not like who they came from, so he had put them aside. "These are nice. The metal is strong and well crafted, the length is right for easy movement." He put them in the pile he was saving before he picked up a thickly padded balteus belt. "I would also keep this." Unlike the cingulum, the balteus had no leather straps hanging from it, causing it to look like a short skirt. The wide black belt laced up the back and was made of durable leather to protect his waist and stomach from a blade. It was something he always wore, yet he accepted it now with as much enthusiasm as if he were facing three days with no nourishment.

"And these were unacceptable before—yet now they are fine?" Batiatus growled, stalking over to Gannicus's reject pile. He crouched down and began to sift through the items himself now that it appeared Gannicus was simply rejecting worthwhile armor because they were gifts from Octavia.

Gannicus ignored him as he picked up a flamboyant piece of golden chain mail. He held the gaudy piece up and snorted, rejecting it for a second time. "I would never wear this. It is too…" He had not the words, he simply knew it was not something he would ever favor. He tossed it into the discard pile. He then threw all the helmets he came across into the pile as well. "Why would she want me to wear a helmet, after all it is my pretty face she desires…is it not?" he muttered broodingly, picking up a shield and throwing it away without really looking at it.

Quintus hissed a soft curse and Gannicus's gaze shot to his Dominus as the man approached his position. "Apologies," he muttered quickly, realizing he was pushing Batiatus unnecessarily.

Quintus squatted in front of where Gannicus sat on the bed, so they were eye to eye. "Gannicus, this woman has sent you a fucking fortune worth of new armor and yet you sit there pouting as if she delivered you a sack of shit and demanded you eat it! What seizes brain that you are of a mind to fuck this up?!"

Gannicus did not answer, but his furrowed brow and crossed arms said it all.

"When I ask you a direct fucking question, I expect fucking answer!"

"And what would you have me say, Dominus. The woman overwhelms me with her attentions."

Batiatus ignored his gladiator's mood. "Do you realize how many of your brothers would kill for armor such as this?"

"Then let them have it. I did not ask her to do this," Gannicus complained. "The woman does not care whether I like or dislike her choices. Her only concern is that I attire myself as she demands and then offer my cock for similar enjoyment later!"

"Then show fucking gratitude she is not having you fight naked so that her favorite part of you may swing free for viewing pleasure!" he said, getting up and resuming his search within Gannicus' discard pile.

Batiatus had his back turned to Gannicus, so the gladiator openly glared at the man for that comment. He wanted to tell Batiatus exactly what he thought of him but to do so would be suicide, so he kept his comments behind teeth.

"Here," Batiatus said, turning and catching Gannicus's sour expression. The lanista leaned forward, pointing a finger at his gladiator. "See scowl removed or I promise you, I will and in a manner, you will find most unpleasant!"

Chastised, Gannicus looked down and away. "Dominus," he murmured.

"And cease playing the fucking martyr, Gannicus," Batiatus muttered. "You are no fucking virgin having your flower plucked. You have shared your bed with near every whore in this ludus!" In a fit of temper, Batiatus kicked several pieces of armor across the room. "What ails fucking mind that you risk flogging to avoid sharing cock with a beautiful woman who presents you with gifts worthy of a Roman fucking noble?!"

Gannicus jaw tightened, his expression mutinous. "A high-priced whore is still a whore," he replied softly.

"And since when do you cast aspersions upon whores?" When Gannicus did not have a ready reply, Batiatus scoffed. "Or is it, you do not favor being the one paid for services rendered?"

Gannicus looked away, refusing to answer and Quintus exhaled several angry breaths in effort to calm ire; he had no wish to punish his most valuable man, but he could not allow Gannicus' insolence to continue either. "Look at me, Gannicus." The lanista waited until he had complied before going on. "Open ears and heed fucking words. Octavia is offering you and this house glory long denied us by self-important men who would keep us to lesser matches and never let us rise again to prominence. I suggest you settle yourself to purpose and see fucking attitude put aside, or my words will not be the only thing lashing your skin!" He paused, his eyes fixed upon Gannicus's face angrily. "Are we of a singular mind on this?"

Gannicus gave a slow nod of acquiesce and after a long, tension filled moment, Quintus allowed the subject to drop. In effort to dispel angry feelings, Batiatus stayed and continued to go through armor. He found a pair of well-crafted black and gold manicae and scrutinized them for their quality. "What do you think of these?" he asked, handing them to Gannicus. "The leather on the wrist guards is thicker and of a higher quality than the ones I provide, I can tell you that. And look at the metal encrusted upon the seams. Much better protection for your forearm than what you are using now."

Gannicus realized Batiatus was offering him a chance to see bitter words mended without punishment; Gannicus swallowed his pride and accepted the olive branch his Dominus was offering. "They are of a fine quality," he agreed, taking them and placing them in his 'keep' pile. "I will wear them today in the games."

While combing through the many items Gannicus had put aside as rejects, Quintus was surprised to see a masterfully crafted black and gold galerus amongst the discard pile. With a frown, he picked the garment up and examined it closer. It had dual sleeves meant to protect a gladiator's shoulders and arms. The thick leather straps that fastened across the chest were buttery soft and of the highest quality. The golden breast plate in the center (meant to add even further protection) had a roaring lion finely etched into the metal with tiny rubies serving as eyes for the beast. Appius had truly outdone himself in the design. The craftmanship was spectacular as well, by far one of the most beautiful works of art in armory that Batiatus had ever seen. From afar, you could not see the lion, but Octavia would most definitely know its presence. In fact, Quintus was certain the galerus was what she had in mind when she requested Gannicus present himself wearing the golden lion.

"This is magnificent," he said, turning towards Gannicus and holding the armor up for inspection. "The metal along the arms is gold plated steel, sturdy, yet gives way for flexibility and the fur inside each sleeve is so fucking soft a babe could lie within and sleep peacefully! Did you bother to take notice the breast plate is gold plated and the lion has fucking rubies for eyes?" Quintus glared at his gladiator, beyond irritated that it had been cast aside into the discard pile. "This is a masterpiece in armory and must have cost a fucking fortune!" Batiatus tossed it to Gannicus in a huff. "I would hear explanation on why you chose to leave it out."

Gannicus caught the dual sleeved galerus and set it beside him on the bed. In truth he had no explanation. It was exquisite, something he would have coveted had it not been bought and paid for by Octavia—his Mistress. She was taking control of him with ruthless determination and in a fit of rebellion he had tossed the armor aside, just as determined to maintain who he was and what he wore.

He did not care to give voice to the true reasoning behind his decision, however, so Gannicus excused his actions with a careless wave of his hand. "Apologies, Dominus, I missed this particular item. It is indeed spectacular, and I will wear it proudly," he lied, holding Batiatus's gaze despite the older man's obvious skepticism.

Batiatus' expression revealed his doubts regarding the excuse, but he let the matter go since Gannicus had agreed to wear the item absent further complaint. In short order the two men went through the rest of the items Octavia had provided and, when finished, Gannicus not only had the high-quality new armor for his debut in the Primus, but he had several pairs of manicae, leg greaves, another balteus belt and a sturdy galerus to bolster the meager collection of armor he owned presently. Although, not flashy enough for a match in a primus, the apparel was more than acceptable to train in and of a higher quality than what Batiatus normally provided.

As for the many fine pieces left in the discard pile, Batiatus decided to take Octavia at her word and distribute it among the other gladiators. The boon would give his men some much needed extra armor while saving his own coffers exponentially. A winning proposition to be sure.

*8*

A/N: Let me know what ya think. :)