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 10: sic infit sub rosa: So, it begins under the rose.

After the games, Tullius approached Titus where he stood with Quintus accepting approval and well wishes from the magistrate and various other nobles who had witnessed Gannicus's brilliant display in the arena.

"Titus," he said, rudely ignoring Quintus altogether, "A most amazing performance from Gannicus. He decimated an opponent who was hailed as unbeatable." His genial demeanor belied the anger bubbling just under the surface. "As I have said, the man is truly a wonder."

Titus nodded. "Something I am beginning to believe myself," he said, a weary smile upon his weathered lips.

"I would have words…if you are still so inclined."

Quintus scowled as Titus became the humbled fool in front of Tullius and gushed, "You honor me."

Tullius inclined his head. "You honor yourself with your cautious wisdom. Join me at Nester's shop after the festivities and we shall see troubled past laid to rest and set sights to new beginnings."

Titus nodded and agreed. At the elder Batiatus' acquiesce, Tullius gave Quintus a small smirk before he left the pulvinus.

Titus went to leave as well, but Quintus quickly followed, halting his father's exit by grabbing his arm. "He seeks to make another offer for Gannicus?" Titus neither confirmed nor denied and Quintus expelled a harsh breath in disbelief. "Surely after his performance today you are not still of a mind to sell the man!"

Titus briskly shrugged off his son's hand. "I agreed to meet with Tullius after the games, nothing more. And while Gannicus gave a fine showing today, let us not forget he was not supposed to be here. We have to find common ground with Tullius and if he is willing to allow your past transgressions to be put behind us, then I am of a mind to discuss possible terms." With those parting words the elder Batiatus walked away, leaving his furious son behind.

Quintus stared daggers at his father's back for a moment, before he cleared expression and joined his wife at the other end of the pulvinus where she was talking with Octavia and Gaia. One positive thing to arise from Tullius calling his father to heel was not having to make explanation as to Gannicus's whereabouts tonight. Octavia wanted him delivered to her villa per their agreement and Quintus had not come up with reasonable excuse that would keep his father in the dark regarding Gannicus' absence, Octavia, nor his arrangement with her.

Now, he would not have to. He quickly ordered his body slave to head down to the carcere and speak with Oenomaus. "Inform the Doctore that Gannicus will not be traveling back to the ludus with the rest of the men. But I would have him see Barca, Crixus and Gnaeus returned to the ludus immediately and rewarded for their efforts."

"Yes Dominus," the beefy Nubian slave said, and hastened to carry out his master's demand.

Gaia turned to Batiatus when he rejoined their group. "A marvelous display! Surely Gannicus will be upon every tongue in Capua by nights end!"

Octavia chuckled and glanced to Quintus. "I know he will certainly be upon mine."

Varis and Cossutius joined their party, offering Quintus their gratitude. The Vinalia games had been a resounding success.

"The contest was magnificent. I have no doubt the Gods were more than pleased this day. My vineyard, as well as all of the Republic, shall bear the fruit of their pleasure come next season," Varis said with a smile.

"Yes, Varis speaks true," Cossutius agreed, turning to Quintus, his approval obvious. "Your man…I have never seen the like. He appeals to the mass audience, with men and women alike worshipping him. I am most eager to procure his services for the Floralia."

With his wounded pride soothed by their accolades, Quintus's mood brightened, and he basked under their praise of the man he had chosen as Champion.

The nobles were scheduled to attend a banquet that evening to conclude the festivities of The Vinalia. Varis looked to Gaia. "You will be attending?"

She shrugged and said carefully, "Unfortunately with the passing of my husband, invitations to such events have dwindled."

Varis shook his head. "Nonsense. Octavia begged leave already, without your presence who will provide interesting companionship?"

"And, I fear Tullius has lost desire for celebrating in the wake of such a defeat," Cossutius added with a smirk.

"Indeed," Varis agreed, before turning back to Gaia, "You cannot leave us with the man-child, Vettius to carry clever conversation. No. Gaia, you must attend. I fear without your charms to keep us entertained, good Cossutius and I would be carried away to the after-life by sheer boredom in a matter of minutes."

Gaia dipped her head in acceptance of his invitation, her girlish giggle bursting forth charmingly. "I would not see you to such a fate. Of course, I will attend."

Pleased, Varis glanced to Octavia. "You stay in Capua for Cossutius's games. Do you not?"

She nodded. "I have found my Apollo, but yes…I have sent word to Rome that I will be longer than originally planned."

Varis kissed her on both cheeks. "Then we will have discourse soon."

Cossutius smirked. "Should I even ask why you stay?"

Octavia raised a brow, a sly smile curling her lips. Cossutius "Only if you wish to see foot firmly up ass."

"Not presently. Perhaps another time," the smarmy Roman quipped.

Octavia gave a careless shrug. "Then I fear you will have to make do without explanation."

Varis and Cossutius both laughed softly but made no mention of her affairs further. Octavia's desires were known among the patrician class but never spoken aloud publicly for fear of acquiring either her husband or brother as a political enemy. If she maintained discretion, her dalliances would remain hidden.

"Are you sure you will not attend tonight?" Varis queried.

Octavia shook her head. "I will not, but…" She glanced to Gaia, "I am quite sure Gaia will more than make up for my lack of presence."

Gaia's laughter once again rang out. "Hardly. I am not the Severus!" She clasped Octavia's hands and teased, "Lend me your gown and I shall wear my wig…perhaps I could pull it off."

The nobles all chuckled at her jesting while Quintus and Lucretia stood off to the side. It was painfully apparent that despite possessing what the Roman elite desired, they were still not among them.

Gaia noticed Lucretia's expression and her smile faded. She would not see dearest friend excluded. "Quintilius," she said to Varis, garnering his attention once again. "I have just had the most marvelous idea." Varis, Cossutius and the rest of the group paused and turned their attention to Gaia. Warming to her idea, Gaia proceeded with enthusiasm. "Seeing as we were all impressed with Gannicus' prowess, who better to entertain your guests than his lanista?" The nobles began to nod their heads and Gaia went on, determined to have her friends accepted among the Roman echelon. "If Lucretia and Batiatus were in attendance tonight—think of the tales they could tell about the 'God of the Arena'. It would be a most welcome addition to your event. Do you not agree?"

Immediately entranced with the idea, Varis smiled broadly. "Absolutely." He turned to Batiatus. "You simply must attend? It would be our honor in gratitude for your man's performance today as well as the hospitality your house has given us."

Quintus shot Gaia a surprised glance before he beamed at Varis, accepting invitation. "How can I refuse such gracious request?"

"Then it is settled," Varis said, "we will see you tonight at my villa just outside the city limits."

Quintus nodded, and after saying their farewells, Cossutius and Varis took their leave.

Octavia chuckled softly after they had left. She glanced to Gaia, amused at how easily the brunette had turned the situation to her favor. "You…" she said, shaking her head, "are nearly as impressive manipulating your audience off the sands as Gannicus was today upon them," she teased.

Gaia gave the woman a clever wink. "Never ask a man for anything. You simply lead him to proper answer."

Quintus threw his hands up as if in surrender. "Which is why I find myself outmaneuvered in my own fucking house!" he teased, smiling broadly, pleased at tonight's turn of events.

"Such is a man's lot when faced with clever woman's wit," Octavia returned. She glanced towards her litter waiting for her at the arena's entrance. "I will take my leave," she began, but before she left, she wanted matters settled between Batiatus first. "I have my carriage arriving to meet me at the edge of the city limits. I would have Gannicus delivered to my villa post haste."

"I will see him to the Ludus and properly attended to before—"

"No," Octavia interrupted. "Have him delivered now. As he is."

Lucretia made a face, her disgust making an appearance on her features. "Are you certain you would not have him bathed—at least have blood from contest washed away before he is set upon doorstep?"

Gaia touched her arm, halting any further words Lucretia would offer. "I am sure Octavia knows her own mind in this…" she told her friend with a warning glance. "After all, what joy is there in taming a beast if he bears no fangs and is not yet wild when handling him."

Lucretia, realizing she might have offended, schooled her features to wipe away the feelings of revulsion she felt at Octavia's leanings. "Apologies. I only meant—"

Octavia shook her head. "None required. My tastes are my own, yet I would have my wishes stand. He is a gladiator and I would have him delivered as such." She nodded to Quintus. "See it done?"

"If that is what you desire. I will have him transported directly from the arena."

Octavia moistened her lips. "And he is aware of his purpose?" she asked, remembering Gannicus's reticence.

Quintus nodded. "He will do as commanded."

"Splendid!" She grasped Quintus's hand in both of hers. "Please me in this, Batiatus, and I shall see you given great favor in Rome…The Circus Maximus shall be a new venue for the House of Batiatus." But as quickly as she smiled, her eyes hardened, and she pulled Batiatus closer to say quietly, "However, if Gannicus refuses to perform, the Pits of Neapolis will be your new arena—make sure he is made aware."

And with that threat hanging in the air, she exited the Arena, her slaves trailing after her as she made her way to the litter that would carry her from the city proper.

Gaia watched the woman leave, and despite Octavia's foreboding words, she was thrilled. "The woman's favor is yours, Quintus!" she exclaimed, hugging Lucretia and placing a soft kiss upon her friend's shoulder. "Present Gannicus in proper mood and all of Rome will be at your feet!"

Quintus grabbed Lucretia and spun her about. "The Gods are finally blessing us!" He gave her a loving kiss before letting her go. "I must see Gannicus properly informed of his duties."

Quintus noticed Melitta then and knew she'd heard Octavia' warning. "You understand I would prefer Oenomaus not hear of tonight's discussion. To do so would only hurt the man. Surely, you do not wish that."

Lucretia glanced at Melitta, her voice firm. "To let loose errant tongue would force other secrets presently concealed to unfold as well." She paused, a brow raised. "Am I understood?"

Melitta understood the threat implied. If she repeated what she had heard this day, Oenomaus would learn of her and Gannicus. It was enough to have her sufficiently cowed. "Yes Domina," she replied meekly.

Lucretia smiled. "Good. Now let us strike it from mind. Some things are best left in shadows." She turned to Quintus. "Go see to Gannicus and we will await you here."

Batiatus' laughter was exuberant as he threw his arms wide and hugged his wife. "The House of Batiatus is back! Gannicus is the wings in which this House shall rise like the Phoenix from the ashes and ascend to the heavens" He spun Lucretia in a circle before setting her back on her feet. "I shall return shortly." He gave his wife a quick kiss. "Arrange transportation to the gala, will you?"

Lucretia nodded, her sparkling eyes showing her happiness for her husband as she watched him take his leave, strutting towards the barracks where the gladiators were kept, head high and shoulders back. He appeared conquering hero and she was overjoyed to see him thusly.

*8*

Batiatus found Gannicus sitting alone in his cage. He had a towel in hand wiping the blood from his face and hands. He patted his chest as well, trying to remove the blood from his body.

Gannicus spotted the lanista and frowned. He had been here long after Oenomaus had left with the rest of his brothers. He assumed the woman, Octavia would be visiting him tonight at the ludus, surely Batiatus would want him prepared before she arrived.

"Finally. I was brought here after contest instead of leaving with the other men." He stood and tossed the towel aside. "Why?"

Disliking the tone of his slave, Batiatus scowled. "Because I fucking asked for you to be brought here." He signaled for Gannicus' cell to be opened.

Realizing his error, Gannicus bowed his head as he exited the cage. "Apologies, Dominus. I was curious is all. I meant not to offend."

Quintus' temper faded as fast as it had arisen. "Fuck apologies, Gannicus," he said, clapping his hand upon his gladiator's shoulder. "You annihilated Tullius' man! Ah! Did you see his face?" Gannicus shook his head, and Batiatus laughed gleefully. "It was a glorious sight indeed to watch the man reap bitter harvest as you defeated his man without receiving a fucking injury in the doing!"

Gannicus grinned. "He was not the Titan the man claimed, that is for certain."

"Ha! I'll say!" Batiatus, said, his hand on Gannicus' shoulder, guiding him as they walked the corridors of the carcere, towards the lower level exit of the arena. "You have brought greatness back to this house. I would see you well rewarded for your triumph, but first, Octavia expects you this night." He paused, his gaze meeting Gannicus', with steely determination. "You are clear to purpose?"

He gave a nod of his head. There was no fighting it, and bemoaning his fate would not change it, it would only see him punished. And in the end, he would still find himself in the woman's bed, only he would be in chains. Gannicus had no desire to suffer the added humiliation of such a thing. He would embrace his fate, it was the only way to survive it.

"I will see the woman is attended to, Dominus."

"Good. Please this woman, Gannicus, and fucking Rome will open her arms and thighs to you as well! You have to favor the fucking sound of that!" Gannicus nodded but did not quite show the enthusiasm Batiatus was looking for, so the man gave added incentive. "To fail at task would have unfortunate consequence. I would hate to see recent events, best left to shadow, become known in a fit of temper."

Gannicus did not need that remark clarified. Meaning was clear—if he failed to make the Roman woman happy, Oenomaus would hear about Melitta and him. "I would not see such a thing come to pass."

"Nor would I," he said. "But this woman's favor is crucial to securing introduction to Rome and its echelon." Quintus grasped Gannicus' face between his hands. "See it done and see yourself to glories never imagined!"

Giving Batiatus the enthusiasm he was obviously seeking, Gannicus flashed his cocky grin at the man. "Ease worry over the matter, Dominus. You know I favor rewarding adventure between sheets to quench thirst after grueling trial upon the sands. When I am through with her, Octavia will so well-satisfied, she will weep with the pleasure I give her."

Batiatus burst into elated laughter. "Now, there's my fucking gladiator!" he crowed.

They arrived at the cart that would take him from the arena. The guards placed shackles on Gannicus' wrists and Batiatus patted Gannicus on the back once more before the blonde gladiator maneuvered himself into the wagon.

*8*

As Melitta stood in the background awaiting the litter that would pick up the nobles, she was forced to listen as Lucretia and Gaia went on and on about that woman, Octavia. Melitta did her best to ignore the comments made about Gannicus pleasing the woman, but she could not wipe image from mind, and the sounds she had heard from the triclinium the day prior haunted her. She detested the idea of him servicing that creature but knew it would happen again tonight whether she wanted it to or not. She was keeping an eye on the side gate of the arena when she spotted Gannicus being led out. He was still in full battle armor with traces of blood still visible upon his chest and legs. The woman had wanted him as is and that was exactly how he was leaving. Melitta watched as Batiatus handed him over to the guards to place him in chains before Gannicus swung himself into the cart, the instrument that would take him to that woman. Her stomach roiled at what would happen between them and Melitta wished she had smiled at him earlier when he had winked…

As if her musings called to him, Gannicus looked up at her through the barred window of the wagon, and their eyes met and held. This time, Melita allowed expression to soften, she even smiled at him, but Gannicus did not return it in kind. Instead, he moved away from the window altogether and did not look out at her again. Melitta was surprised and (to her dismay) a bit hurt at his reaction, but she was aware it was what she had requested of him. She cared for him, far more than expected, but she belonged to another, and Gannicus was now entangled as well. Telling him how deeply she truly felt would only bring about further pain and that was something Melitta wished to avoid…at all costs.

*8*

As the wagon bounced along the road, Gannicus sat in the back of the cart that was also a cell. His mind replayed his contest in the arena. It had been a thrilling victory! His opponent had finally offered some (much missed) competition. 'But not too much!' he thought with a grin. It had been an exciting bout, and he had thoroughly enjoyed the adulation he had received after match was over. The jubilation he felt being on the sands was dimmed slightly by his actions afterwards. He had winked at Melitta. He called himself fool for doing so after he had sworn to follow proper path, and yet he still found himself seeking out her gaze. His feelings for her were a wound that festered, and in his foolishness, he could not stop coming back to the source of his pain and picking at those emotions like a scab barely healed.

It frustrated him.

He had to stay focused and leave her be, or he feared his infatuation for her would lead them all to ruin.

Since he was in an enclosed space with only one window with bars upon it to see through, Gannicus did not realize they were heading in the opposite direction of the ludus until they passed a villa he knew was not in route to the mountain incline he had travelled so often.

He leaned towards the small opening that allowed him to speak to the driver. "You are taking the wrong road," he called out to the man.

The driver turned and Gannicus was surprised to see it was not Batiatus' man at the helm. The man driving him was a stranger to him, someone he had never laid eyes upon. Gannicus was about to get aggressive with the man when the driver explained their destination was not the Batiatus ludus, it was his Domina's villa just north of Capua. Realization dawned, and Gannicus leaned back against the wood of the wagon with a sigh. So, he was being delivered to Octavia, rather than her coming to the ludus; and without benefit of even proper bath to wash away the gore from battle.

During their discussion earlier, Batiatus had neglected to inform him that he would not be returning to the ludus. Although, if he was honest, it made no difference where he went, whether it was her villa or the ludus, he had been ordered to service this woman in whatever ways she desired, and he would see task completed, as demanded.

In fact, making a stop by the ludus would only put off the inevitable, or make it harder, if he had to see Melitta again. He forced her from thought. Her image upon brain would make embracing his fate near impossible and Gannicus had to accept what was being demanded of him or go mad. If he did not make this woman cum with pleasure tonight, Oenomaus would hear about Melitta and him. That would cause such devastation, Gannicus could not have it, not for himself, but especially, not for Melitta. He would fall upon sword before he allowed such trauma to befall her. Which is why he would make this woman howl and scream tonight... no matter the personal cost.

When the wagon slowed, Gannicus glanced through the bars of the cart as it was ushered through a pair of massive wooden gates. The road they were on led into a beautiful meadow that gradually inclined into rolling hills where a sprawling villa was situated between. The wagon bounced along the dirt road, the team of horses at its helm keeping it at a brisk pace as it drew Gannicus closer to the woman who was now tied to his fate. As he looked out the small window into the heart of the valley where the villa was located, Gannicus barely noticed how beautiful the property was. He saw a large stream that ran along the valley making the grass surrounding the structure lush and green, but he cared not. The only thought he had in mind was what form of debauchery would his new mistress demand of him; and considering his past experiences with her, it could take any form.

As they pulled into the courtyard, Gannicus stared up at the massive villa with wide eyes. It stood at least four stories high, with twelve towering columns lining the front of the structure. Its immense stature reminded him of a castle he had seen once when he was yet a boy still in his homeland. It was massive and majestic, and he was a bit in awe of such obvious wealth.

"The woman must be made of coin to possess such a home," he muttered to himself as the wagon came to a stop.

The guards escorted him out of the cart and Gannicus was presented with the obvious truth in his own statement. Octavia's family was rich indeed to own a villa so grand. The columns were two stories tall and made of stone so fine, they appeared soft to the touch. There was a balcony on the third level that ran nearly half the length of the villa and overlooked the courtyard where he stood. A large, circular mosaic and stone fountain was on display in the center of the courtyard and drew attention to the statues of nude cherubs frolicking about one on top of another. The wine jugs they held in their chubby fists served as the fountain with water flowing from each tipped end of their pitchers and cascading down onto the other cherubs and into the circular pool below. Gannicus glanced down, intrigued at the multicolored fish he saw swimming around inside. There were dozens of them swishing through the crystal-clear water. He had never seen fish like these and for a moment he was tempted to reach down and see if he could grab one of the slippery devils.

In that moment, Octavia made her presence known.

"Bring him inside," she demanded, and his gaze shot upwards to the balcony to find her standing there, leaning over the edge; her eyes firmly upon him.

She was dressed in ethereal blue robes that flowed long and fluent. The wind caught hold of them, causing the fabric to take flight, twisting and turning behind her. Her blonde hair shimmered in the moonlight and Gannicus again took note of how attractive she was. Yes, she was vicious and cruel, however, if he were going to be sold into this manner of servitude, he had to admit, it could be worse. He could have a master far less pleasing to the eye…like Varis. That caused his stomach to heave, and he was decidedly grateful it was the Severus woman summoning him this night, not the lustful nobleman.

The thought once again allowed him to leave off self-pity and set mind to task. Gannicus flashed the guards a cocky grin. "You heard the woman...lead me inside."

*8*

Gannicus was led through the vestibulum and into the grand atrium. He glanced back over his shoulder as the guards ushered him along, gaping at the huge phallic like symbol hung above the woman's front door. Oenomaus had told him once that such a token was supposed to bring good luck, wealth and fertility to a household but Gannicus had laughed at his brother thinking he was jesting. "Who would put a cock on display over their entryway?" he had chortled. Now, seeing it first-hand, he still thought it ridiculous, even if it brought good fortune. It was still a cock on display! He managed not to laugh, but just barely.

The atrium had columns that were as impressive as the ones in front of the villa, with certain vantage points standing as high as three stories. The open aired area was extensive and obviously used to entertain many guests. In the center was a large rectangular impluvium, filled to overflowing from the recent rains in Capua. Surrounding the impluvium were beautifully carved statues of the Goddess Venus, the God Apollo, Diana, the Huntress and Cupid with his bow and arrow aimed and ready, and standing proud in the center of the impluvium, surrounded by the other Gods, was Jupiter. The God of Gods was displayed much larger than the others, standing a good ten feet tall and he had a thunderbolt clutched in each mighty fist. A terrace off to the right of the atrium served as an open aired garden and intoxicating scents of night blooming jasmine filled the air around them. As he walked past the bushes abundant with the white flowers, he paused and picked one, holding it to his nose. The scent was arousing and Gannicus found it most pleasing. He kept the flower as he continued following behind the guard.

The guard's footsteps echoed along the stone walkway as they moved beyond the garden and deeper into the villa. Gannicus noticed the floor was made up of intricately designed mosaic tiles portraying gladiators engaged in combat upon the sands. He hesitated walking on such stone and could not imagine how costly such a thing would be, especially given the size of the room, but he imagined it was plenty. As they continued their journey through the villa, they took many turns, walked up three flights of stairs and through a half-dozen wide, spacious walkways where statues of golden lions with jeweled eyes adorned each doorway. Gannicus could not help but think even if he wanted to escape he doubted he could remember the route taken and retrace steps. After a time, he forgot trying to recall how many turns he'd taken and became immersed in the artwork found within the villa. Along one wall were colorful tapestries displaying gladiators in all forms of combat—there was even a woman gladiator depicted in one; that peaked his interest as he had heard of women taking to the sands, but never seen it with his own eyes. Along another wall were portraits of Gods and men in various scenes of war, battle or fucking. He purposefully slowed his steps, so he could study each piece as he was led past them. Gannicus had never seen anything like some of the artwork, and he chuckled out loud when he got to a painting depicting a grand orgy, men and women everywhere, naked and unabashed in various poses and positions; it appeared a good time for all was being had!

The next corridor was decorated with bronze and stone statues of the Gods, Gannicus noted some of the smaller busts were encrusted with jewels for eyes or to enhance the robes of the deity they depicted. Again, he was thunderstruck at the wealth this woman had to have…even the gold candlesticks placed along each table or attached to the walls were elaborately carved and adorned with jewels or a lion figurehead. Obviously, Octavia had more than enough denarii to purchase him and anything she desired from him several times over.

It was a troubling realization, especially when he remembered her words informing him her desire for him would be "long-term". He was still unsure what amount of time that entailed.

After walking up yet another flight of stairs and traveling through another spacious, richly decorated hall, they finally arrived at a set of huge floor-to-ceiling white doors. The guards stopped and knocked, after a moment, Gannicus heard her call out for them to enter. Upon entry, his eyes widened as he took in what must be her bedroom yet appeared larger than the entire training yard at Batiatus'! The high ceilings, sparkling white walls and black, gold and white marbled flooring gave the room a dramatic contrast, yet the huge potted palms and ferns placed around the room lent it a beautiful splash of color. The balcony he had first spotted her on was off to the right and across from it were several large open windows so the breeze that wafted through the room was most pleasant in the heat. Gannicus noticed the sparkling crystal blue waters of an outdoor natiato upon the balcony and marveled at such a thing being found upon a balcony—in the air and not within ground. The pool looked exotic and most enticing in his present condition.

Octavia was standing next to a colossal four poster bed carved entirely of gleaming black marble, richly flecked with striking gold veins throughout. It was a monumental work of art that could easily sleep four, perhaps even five grown men comfortably. Gannicus gaped at the imposing sight. The Roman beds he had noticed within Batiatus' villa were smaller, not much bigger than the couches they continuously reclined upon; sleeping two people, three at the most. Not this behemoth. He noted the mattress was thick and plush, nearly two feet high, and each solid square column like post was at last seven feet tall and intricately carved and topped with a majestic lion's head. The massive headboard was made of the same stunning black marble, but in the center was a rich vein of pure gold, it was in the honey colored center that a snarling lion was sculpted, as if was roaring to life within the golden veins, ready to leap from the stone and pounce; the saying 'audere est facere' (to dare is to do) was chiseled above the beast's mighty mane, adding to the grand effect. The bed was draped in white, blue and gold sheer curtains with silky looking white linens adorning its mattress. It was a lavish piece of furniture, bigger and grander than anything Gannicus had ever laid gaze or head upon, and he wondered if she would truly allow him, a slave, into that beautiful bed of hers.

"Remove his chains," she ordered. In one hand she held a glass of wine, the other hand was wrapped around one of the thick bed posts as her gaze lingered upon his face and then traveled slowly down his body. "And then leave us."

Her voice was already breathless.

The guards nodded and removed Gannicus's shackles before exiting the room to assume their post outside the white doors; ready to lend their sword should their Mistress call for them.

The sound of the doors shutting behind the guards rang in Gannicus's ears. He could see Yadira standing off to the side, next to the bed, and wondered if she would play a part in tonight's events. She was a pretty thing and had played a role previously. He well remembered it was her mouth on his cock that had him hard enough to fuck Octavia. He supposed he would see if his "new life" included threesomes. The prospect made his cock stir. Octavia had not moved, so he stood, shoulders back, staring at a spot above her head as he awaited her command. The blood upon his chest and arms from his contest was dried and crusted and beginning to itch. He was dirty and smelled of sweat and death and he could not imagine why she had summoned him from the arena in this state, rather than allowing him to return to the ludus to make himself presentable.

Finally, she crossed the room to stand before him and placed a palm on his shoulder. "You are a magnificent creature. A golden Adonis of the arena," she purred, her voice husky with desire. "Your flesh is so firm. Like the marble my bed is carved of." She slid her hand along his shoulder, noticing his eyes returning to the bed again and again. "Does my bed please you? I designed it myself."

He nodded. "It is a work of art, unlike anything I have seen," he told her truthfully.

Her green eyes were dark with lust. "I have thought of nothing but you in it since I left the ludus yesterday," she admitted huskily.

Gannicus noticed her eyes had that glassy-eyed, dazed look from the day prior, and suspected she was, once again, under the influence of opium. He sincerely hoped she did not intend to drug him again.

When her gaze dropped to the dried blood on him, Gannicus cleared his throat and explained. "Apologies for my appearance," he said gruffly. "Your man took me directly from the games. I had not the chance to wash away the blood and sand from my match."

"None required. He but did as I commanded. You were spectacular in the Primus. The way you destroyed your opponent…" She took a sip of her wine and a slow smile curled her lips as one hand went behind his neck and brought his head down. "I simply could not wait to have you in my presence," she said and kissed him.

Gannicus returned it in kind, until she pulled back. He licked his lips, tasting the wine she had sipped. "Gratitude," he said softly. "For the praise as well as the many gifts you delivered for my cell and my new armor." He managed to crack a small smile even as she ran her palm along his naked chest. "I fear you are going to spoil me."

She walked around him, her fingers trailing along his skin, marveling at how beautiful he was. When she was standing before him again, she placed her hand upon his breast and kept it there.

Gannicus noted she did not seem to mind the blood.

"You deserve it and more. Your prowess in the arena today was truly a sight to see. The crowd…how they adore you. You seduce them effortlessly." She tilted her head and gazed up at him, batting her lashes as if they were lovers rather than what they were, Mistress and slave. Gannicus lowered his gaze to meet her eyes and she smiled at him. "Tell me Gannicus…are you as skilled at seduction outside the arena as you are within its walls?"

She seemed to genuinely want his answer, so he told her the truth. "I am."

"And if I were to ask for demonstration? Could you…seduce me…without command?" She said it teasingly, not as demand, but she caught breath and held it. His answer held weight and it showed.

This line of questioning had Gannicus puzzled. What was her meaning? She did not need seduction. He was here at her command and would do anything she wanted.

"What say you, brave Gannicus, are you up to the challenge? Think you could seduce a proper Roman woman to your bed without being ordered to do so?"

It dawned on him with surprise that the woman wished their interlude to be a seduction, rather than her demanding he fuck her as she had previously. That intrigued him, as did her words saying she had thought of nothing but him since she had forced him into servitude to her. Was the woman developing affections for him? It seemed extremely soon for her to have stirrings of that nature, however, the fact that she did not simply command him to perform meant she wanted him to like her, to desire her of his own free will. A slow smile curled Gannicus' lips. He knew women. He also knew how they became when they desired more from him than he could give. He had developed an instinct for spotting a developing crush after one misadventure with a girl at the ludus had ended horribly wrong; since then, he always cut ties with a woman long before she fell in love with him. Octavia was exhibiting the signs that she wanted more from him, that despite all her power, she wanted to be his lover, not his "Mistress". In that instant he made an instinctual decision to treat her as such.

He would embrace his fate, as he had intentionally planned, however, he would not only survive it, he would thrive, by making the mistress his to command.

He flashed her a seductive grin and took a step closer to her, perilously close to invading her space. "I could. And I would offer such glorious demonstration of my skill it would ruin you for all men who would follow me."

Her eyes widened at his brazen reply. For a moment Gannicus wondered if he had over stepped his boundaries, but then she laughed, and he knew he had not. "You would dare make such a boast!"

He nodded towards the headboard. "To dare is to do, yes?" He gave her a wicked grin. "I would dare much if you would prefer a man so bold of purpose."

She picked up her wine and took a sip. "Tell me gladiator, how many women have you lured to your bed with honeyed words dripping from silver tongue?"

He was positive now. The woman was bantering with him. She wanted more from him than his obedience; he decided to play this game with her and see where it would take him.

"I told you once, my tongue has many talents…" His voice as husky, sensual in its promise, and he watched in satisfaction as her breathing sped up as her excitement increased. "Unfortunately for my purse, being made of silver is not among them. However, if you allow my tongue but a moment between your thighs, I can assure you, my words will not be the only thing dripping honey."

"Such hubris..." she said, taking a sip of her wine, but her hand trembled, another sign of her desire.

Gannicus chuckled huskily and winked at her. "It is not hubris when true."

His words caused her arousal to spike. "Yadira," she called out, her eyes never leaving Gannicus', "leave us. I would be alone with Gannicus."

His brow raised as the pretty red-head exited the room. "You ask her to leave?" He managed to keep his disappointment from his voice.

"She will not be joining us tonight," she told him. "I have no desire to share you."

She was jealous of her own body slave as well! That was telling. Gannicus let his eyes drift down her body and then back up to her face, noticing the dilated eyes and flushed cheeks. She was aroused and high. This time she was at the disadvantage and Gannicus was going to use it against her.

"Is it truly because you do not wish to share or is it because you know I am about to fuck you so incredibly, you will forget I am merely a slave?"

His words caused her face to flush even more and she leaned forward to take hold of the galerus straps across his chest. "I cannot bear the thought of another touching you," she said and pulled him to her, pressing her body to his despite the gory evidence of his battle still upon his flesh. "Gods! You are magnificent! I would have your cock in me now to lend truth to your words!" she said, her voice a low whine of lust.

Gannicus narrowed his eyes and once again reacted upon instinct. Her words were a demand, but her tone and her expression stated otherwise. Her demeanor recalled past lovers who had very much enjoyed being submissive in bed. A slow grin curled one side of his mouth upwards as he wondered if that was true purpose for sending her slave away. Could it be Octavia Severus, (noble Roman bitch) did not want to be obeyed or in command, or simply use his body for her pleasure? Perhaps what she truly yearned for was to receive orders rather than give them; to be dominated by a lover who would take control and fuck her properly. Gannicus could play that role. It would certainly be another means of coming to balance with her. Deciding to test his theory, he grabbed her by the hips and abruptly spun her about so that her back was to him. Taking hold of her hair, he buried his hand in the thick mass, sending pins flying to land about the room in a tinkling cadence. She gasped, eyes widening, but when he roughly pulled her head back, she gave a throaty moan rather than demand he halt his attentions. In that instant, Gannicus was certain he had been correct in his assumption; he also knew he had the woman right where he wanted her.

He lowered his head, his lips beside her ear. "Grab the bed post and hold tight," he ordered, no longer the slave in this scenario. His hands slid upwards to cup her breasts and he nipped at the shell of her ear, causing her to shiver and moan yet again, "I am going to give you the proper fucking you obviously need and when I am done with you, you will crave my cock above all others."

Never had a man, much less a slave talked to her in such a fashion. Her knees quivered with lust. "You are bold, gladiator," she said, yet immediately did as he commanded, wrapping both hands around the solid marble of the bed post, allowing Gannicus to become the director of their interlude.

He reveled in his control over her. In this, he was her master. Quickly, he tore away the expensive robes that separated her class from his, exposing her body and leaving her naked and trembling before him. Now the scales were balanced. In a swift move, he had his subligaria off and dropped to the floor. "Keep hold of the post. Do not let it go," he instructed as he placed one hand on her shoulder and bent her over just enough so that she was in a submissive position and easily accessible. When she was where he wanted, he took cock in hand and guided it to her noble cunt—eager to make the Mistress his whore.

Gannicus growled low in his throat, satisfaction filling him as he found her dripping wet, her juices coating the head of his cock and his hand. "See how fucking wet you are for me," he murmured, rubbing a slick finger along her lips. She moaned and tried to turn her head away, but he forced her to stay still. "Your cunt weeps for my cock. Taste its tears," he said and slid the digit into her mouth as he used his other hand to line himself up to her opening.

Desperate now, she pushed backwards trying to force him inside, but Gannicus refused entry until she gave in. "Please!" she whimpered, opening her lips and allowing him to slide his finger in and out of her mouth, crudely mimicking the actions she was craving from other parts of his body.

When she began to suck his finger in earnest, Gannicus let out a full-throated laugh, more than pleased at how their positions had reversed for the moment. In fact, there were no demands from her mouth presently, only begging and sucking. He relished having some power back in his own hands. After allowing himself a moment to enjoy her ministrations, Gannicus removed his finger from her lips.

"I need you…" she whined, nearly insensate with her yearning to have him inside her.

His grin was wicked as he slid only the tip inside. "Patience. I am coming," he told her, giving her shapely noble ass a quick slap with the palm of his hand. She gasped at that and Gannicus was unsure if it was from shock that he dared such a thing or from pleasure.

'Probably a bit of both,' he thought with a smirk as he grabbed hold of her hips in both hands and thrust forward, hard, completely impaling her on his impressive cock with one forceful stroke.

Her ecstatic scream of pleasure was heard four stories below to the courtyard in front of the villa.