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.

Chapter 15: visio dei: Vision of a god.

The House of Batiatus was a flutter later that day as Quintus and Lucretia readied themselves for the Coena Libera. The celebration of a gladiator's 'final meal' before battle was scheduled to begin just past meridies or mid-day sun and there was still much to do. Octavia's visit and subsequent explosion had set the house behind schedule. Melita was busy putting intricately carved hair pins into the blonde wig Lucretia was wearing for the day while Batiatus held his arms out for Diona and Naevia to finish dressing him. "Fucking Gannicus!" Batiatus crowed, grinning at his wife. "He shall be the wings on which this House will soar to the Heavens!"

"Octavia was unhappy with him earlier today," Lucretia informed him, turning her head and admiring Melitta's handiwork in the looking glass she held.

He frowned at the news, but then shrugged it off as he said, "Well, she was fucking blissful with him when she left. She offered apologies for some items she broke with promise to replace with either similar items or coin. Jupiter's cock! She even gave consent in allowing Gannicus to keep Diona here as his." He glanced towards the slave girl, who blushed and looked down. Quintus snorted. "The man must have a magical fucking cock! It seems every time he settles himself between spread thighs he leaves with cunt firmly under his spell!"

Lucretia glanced towards Melitta, noticed her flushed face, but made no mention of it. "So, Octavia was well satisfied when she took leave."

"More than," Quintus said, briskly walking across the room to gather the rest of his robes.

Changing the subject, Lucretia noted. "I see your father was awake as I passed his room. Is he feeling well enough to attend the Coena Libera?"

"No," he replied. "Thank the fucking Gods! We shall be free of my father's overbearing presence for the celebration. However," Quintus made a face and rolled his eyes. "He insists he is well enough to have a visitor, although his voice and palate speak differently."

"And who is this visitor?" Lucretia asked.

"Who do you think?" Batiatus replied, frustration evident. "The man is insistent to try and mend fences with fucking Tullius after he learned I refused the man audience during his bed rest. Apparently, he sent a missive to town just an hour ago requesting audience while we are at the Coena Libera."

"Tell me he does not still seek to sell Gannicus to that man?"

Batiatus shrugged impatiently. "With my father—who can fucking say? He will not listen to reason. If he was of right mind, he would be making leave for Sicilia and its more hospitable climate not wasting away here casting disapproving eye to son's disappointment."

"Perhaps another victory tomorrow will see bitter tongue turn to praise."

He scoffed at Lucretia's words. "Like that will ever happen! I delivered the fucking Apollinares, and what did he do? He chastised me for overreaching station and ruined the pride I felt in achievement by insinuating I will lose Gannicus in Rome! You know how this concern assaults brain constantly now that he has placed idea within mind."

Lucretia sighed. "I know. You still have not come up with a plan to ensure such an event does not come to pass?"

"How?" Quintus asked. "I cannot control the Roman crowd. Four gladiators received the rudis last year. Gannicus incites the crowd like no other gladiator I have seen. It is not unreasonable to believe he will have the Roman crowd enthralled as well."

Unwilling to see her husband ruin a night meant for celebration, Lucretia sought to place his focus elsewhere. "There is nothing we can do about Rome presently. We do not know what tomorrow will bring, so let us embrace today and strike all else from concern, until opportunity to rectify situation arises." She took hold of his hand. "We must focus attention on ensuring your father does not sell the man before we even get to Rome."

"Arrgh!" he snarled. "My fucking father. He is constant pain in ass!" He began to pace. "He falls to death's door, and I ensure he receives proper rest as medicus suggested and what does he have to say for my efforts? He loses fucking mind at my refusal to allow Tullius visitation." Quintus shook his head, "I swear to the fucking Gods, will the bitterness of his tongue ever see fit to praise unworthy son?" He kicked aside a stool next to the bed in a fit of temper. "Hopefully his failing health will see him back to Sicilia—the sooner the fucking better, I say."

Lucretia detested seeing him so upset. It was time to do something about Titus. "Melitta," she said, turning to her body slave, "Go to the cellar and fetch an amphora of Falernian wine for the paterfamilias' visitor."

After Melitta had gone, Quintus rounded on Lucretia. "You offer our best wine to that cunt, Tullius?!"

"I offer an olive branch to your father by appearing to accept his need to please Tullius," she told her husband. "Going to battle with him over this will not serve cause. It will only serve to draw harsher lines between father and son. Titus will not make a decision today, so let us be diplomatic in our approach." She gave him a cunning smile. "At least until such time when Gannicus has become such worthy asset, your father would be labeled a fool to sell the man."

"Ha! Fucking brilliant!" Quintus gushed, wrapping his arms around her waist and kissing her soundly. "The Gods truly blessed me the day they led you to me."

Lucretia placed a hand on his cheek lovingly. "It is I who is blessed to have a husband such as you."

Their very real love for each other made them blind to everyone but themselves.

Finally, Quintus pulled away. "Go. See to my father while I check on Gannicus and ensure he is properly attended. Tell Gaia we leave within the hour." He flashed Lucretia the cocky grin she loved. "Fuck Tullius and my father!" he exclaimed. "Let them plot. Tonight, we celebrate being restored to rightful position and one step closer to true glory and Rome!"

Lucretia watched him as he strutted down the hall towards the ludus. His stride was confident. He was as she desired, strong and sure of himself and the pride she felt was evident. It was that desire for him to succeed which was forcing hand now. Lucretia tucked a small vial of opium into her robes and went to Titus' room. Upon entry, she noticed he was asleep in bed. On quiet feet, she went to his bedside and picked up his amphora of honeyed wine. Glancing down at the sleeping man cautiously, Lucretia took the vial out of her robes and poured the entire contents of white powder into Titus' wine. She swirled the jug around several times, ensuring the opium was distributed throughout the wine, before replacing the amphora back to the night stand beside Titus' bed.

Lucretia gazed down at the man who had never approved of her or her marriage to his son. She had been slipping poison into his wine for years, but this was the first time she had ever given the old man opium along with the poison. It might just kill the old fool, but she was beyond caring. He was killing Quintus slowly with his constant disapproval, and that, she simply would not allow. Either way, whether Titus succumbed this night or not, he would not be having a meaningful discussion with Tullius regarding the sale of Quintus' favored champion. Of that, Lucretia was certain.

Schooling her features into a pleasant mask, she sat on the edge of the man's bed and gently shook him awake. "We are leaving to attend the Coena Libera," she told him. Melitta entered the room at that moment with the Falernian wine and Lucretia held her hand out for the jug. "I have brought you wine to offer most esteemed guest. I know Tullius prefers Falernian to mulsum."

Titus sat up, tucking his covers around his waist. He eyed the jug suspiciously for a moment before accepting it. "Gratitude. I'm surprised. My meeting with Tullius does not upset?"

Lucretia shrugged, keeping her true feelings buried deep inside. "It is not my place to offer permission on who you can visit, Titus. Of course, I would hope you will allow Quintus time to prove Gannicus was right choice for Champion. However, my only wish is to see father and son come together absent bitterness, therefore, we will abide your decision in the matter."

Titus looked pleased with her words and after a short discussion regarding the upcoming match tomorrow, and Titus' insistence he would feel well enough to attend, Lucretia bid him a good night and left, with Melitta following behind. No one, not Melitta or Titus, saw the cruel twist of Lucretia's lips as she exited the old man's room.

*8*

The Batiatus party had assembled in the training yard as they prepared for the journey into town.

"Look at the fucking coach Octavia has sent for Gannicus!" Quintus crowed, dragging Lucretia over to the lumbering vehicle and allowing her to peer inside.

It was large and decorated lavishly. There were two padded bench seats at the front of the wagon, and behind that was a table with two more padded bench seats built in to the floor on either side, allowing the occupants to break their fast siting at a table. Quintus pointed to the curtained area behind the table. "Set gaze upon the sleeping area there. It has a feathered mattress and furs," he said, "Fuck the Gods! This is far nicer than mine. My gladiator will be traveling in better accommodations than his master!"

"Place him in the other cart and we shall use this one."

Batiatus shook his head. "No. She sent this for him. I will not offend the woman by displacing him."

Lucretia looked at him as if he had lost mind. "He is beneath you."

"It matters not. It is her coin that purchased the gift and she intended it for his use."

Melitta offered a solution. "Domina, apologies for interrupting, but does it not make sense for the lanista and his party to arrive with his gladiator? Perhaps your party should ride in this wagon with Gannicus, while myself, Oenomaus and the other slaves attending follow in the other cart."

"Ride with a gladiator?" Lucretia said, grimacing.

Batiatus, however, was pleased with that suggestion and overruled Lucretia's reservations.

It was then, that Gannicus exited his cell and Melitta nearly fainted when she laid eyes upon him.

He was dressed in yet more gifts from Octavia. The black barbarian pants he wore were knee length, exposing his muscled calves while hugging his thighs to properly display how strong and shapely they were. A white linen tunic was belted with a golden chain that rode low on his hips and jingled slightly when he walked. The tunic accentuated his trim waist and opened down the front, past his belly, exposing his well-muscled chest and rippling stomach. He had golden arm bands around each bicep and he now sported a thick gold chain around his neck with a large claw dangling from the chain that settled between his pectoral muscles. The front of his hair had been clipped back from his face and braided down the back of his head with white and gold ribbons, leaving the rest to lie at his shoulders in golden waves. His coloring, his jewelry and the golden oil he had been rubbed down with before the event all gave him the appearance of a golden God.

Melitta was speechless as she took in his appearance. However, behind her, Diona and Naevia had plenty to say. She heard them start to whisper about how handsome he was, but when Diona gave a loud dreamy sigh and Naevia giggled in response, Melitta turned and gave them a reproving glance, quieting them down. While she did not approve of their dramatics, she had to agree with their summation, Gannicus was a glorious sight to behold. So beautiful, he literally robbed her of breath.

"Ah, the famed warrior has finally decided to grace us with his presence," Batiatus said with a chuckle.

Gannicus, who had been attempting to fix the jingling belt around his waist, glanced up sharply. "Apologies, Dominus," he said. "I had not realized you waited for me."

"Relax, Gannicus. I speak in jest." He wrapped an arm around the gladiator's shoulders and led him to the wagon. "Feast your eyes on that."

Gannicus looked inside. It was the most luxurious wagon he had ever seen, but he could not fathom why Batiatus was showing it to him. Did he want him to inspect it and approve? Gannicus had no idea. "It is very nice," he finally said. "I am certain you will find it comfortable for the trip to town, Dominus."

Batiatus watched his slave closely as he explained. "This is not my wagon, Gannicus. It is yours."

The slack-jawed look of astonishment on Gannicus' face was so comical, Batiatus burst into laughter.

"You are jesting with me again," Gannicus said after a moment.

"No, he is not," Lucretia said, arching a brow, the look of distaste on her face evident. "It appears Octavia has gifted you with transportation far above your station, while we are expected to ride like commoners."

Fuck the Gods! Gannicus did not at all like the angry glance his Domina was giving him. Why had Octavia done such a thing? "Apologies Domina. I did not ask her for this," he said. "Why do you not ride in this wagon and I will ride in the cart I always take to the arena."

Quintus shot his wife an exasperated look. "Nonsense. Strike worries from mind, Gannicus. We can all ride together in this wagon. It is definitely large enough to take our entire party, eliminating the need for extra wagons."

And, so it was settled. Gannicus traveled to the banquet within the confines of the magnificent coach Octavia had provided along with Batiatus, Lucretia, Gaia and their body slaves. Gannicus was not exactly looking forward to being confined in such a small space with Melitta, but he forced himself to control himself and leave her be.

Melitta also maintained a fair distance between them, keeping her gaze firmly focused on the pleasant scenery outside the window, rather than the virile vision within the wagon.

When they arrived in Capua, a large group of people were already gathered, awaiting Gannicus's arrival. The wagon came to a halt in the middle of the market place. The banquet was being held just down the street, but the thoroughfares were too crowded for the wagon to travel any further and the party would have to walk the short distance to where the coena libera was being held. When Gannicus stepped from the ornately decorated wagon and presented himself, the crowd cheered wildly for him. Excited by the roar of his public, he stopped and accepted the adulation with a boisterous laugh and charming grin.

As the Batiatus party walked towards the area reserved for the banquet, Gannicus paused to talk to the fans that began to follow him. As the crowd grew, there was pushing and shoving as people tried to get close to him, their hands reaching out to either touch him or offer him a token of their affections, such as flowers, scarves and other trinkets. Many of them shouted their support of him and some of the more brazen propositioned him for much more than just a smile. Gannicus took it all in stride, never losing his smile as he stopped several times to accept gifts or just allow them a brief touch of his hand. It was inspiring, and their adoration stirred a long-held desire within him to be loved in such a way.

The coena libera for the Floralia was being held in a large open aired spot within the market. Off to the side of the area there were massive fire pits where several types of seafood were searing on metal grills. Next to the fish were long skewers of pork, chicken and dormice roasting over the open flames, their meat sizzling as they cooked. Long tables had been assembled in rows as seating for the (first come, first serve) public that wanted to share a final meal with their heroes. Several other long tables were off to the side laden down with other food items such as bread, assorted cheeses and a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. One table was set up for wine alone and possessed everything from a humble mulsum to the finest Falernian for a more noble palate. A wooden dais had been erected at the front of the procession where the gladiators', their respective lanistas' and the nobles would eat. The placement of the dais gave the public a viewing of the gladiator they were there to support.

Gannicus was almost to the entrance of the outdoor banquet area when one woman pushed past the guards holding the people at bay and charged towards him at a dead run. "Gannicus, I love you!" she cried and threw herself at him.

He let out a soft "oomph" as he caught her in his arms. She grabbed his face in both hands and kissed him soundly. Gannicus was overwhelmed for a moment, before he broke off the kiss and set her back on her feet, holding her at arm's length.

"Now I may greet the after-life a happy man," he announced loudly, winking at the young woman…who blushed even as the guards dragged her away from him and back behind the lines erected between the gladiators and the public.

Batiatus rolled his eyes and chuckled at his comment, while the spectators watching cheered him on, enchanted by his roguish charm.

Once inside the curtained off area where the banquet was to take place, Gannicus and the party of Batiatus was led to the dais and seated. Each gladiator sat in a prominent position towards the middle of the table, facing the public seating area to give the people a chance to keep eyes on their favored gladiator. Yet there was always chairs between them—as if to separate them and prevent the men from coming to blows before proper contest the next day.

In Gannicus's Coena Libera, there were three chairs between his party and his opponents'. On the far right, closest to his opponent sat Varis, the middle chair was for the host, i.e., Cossutius, and the one closest to Gannicus was taken by Octavia. On Gannicus' left sat Batiatus, Lucretia and then Gaia.

Octavia turned to him as he was seated, a sultry smile on her beautiful face. "You look positively delicious," she whispered softly, one hand finding its way under the table to settle on his thigh. The other hand took hold of the lion claw dangling on his new chain; she gave it a gentle tug. "This looks beautiful on you. Gratitude for wearing it. You are as glorious as Apollo himself."

His eyes widened, not in surprise that she was groping him under the table before he had even had a sip of wine, but at her humble offering of gratitude. He had been ordered to wear the damned thing, but he did not speak such thoughts aloud. She seemed genuinely pleased and he would not want one of her infamous tantrums to erupt in such a public place. "You spoil me, Octavia. What ever will I do when you no longer desire me?" he jested, picking up his glass of Falernian wine and saluting her with it.

"That is never going to happen," she said heatedly, her nails digging into his knee as she spoke. "Never!"

He was mid-sip when she broke those words with such vehemence and nail scratching that it startled him, and Gannicus choked on his wine, nearly spewing the expensive brew across the table as he started to cough. Batiatus came to aid and pounded him on the back, allowing Gannicus to catch his breath.

"Gratitude Dominus," he said sincerely. "That is my reward for gulping wine!"

Everyone laughed, but inside Gannicus' stomach knotted. The woman had sounded determined and positively deranged. He turned to look at her, his brow furrowing as he fretted over what she meant by 'never'. Surely, she did not mean that literally?

*8*

The celebration went on throughout the afternoon and into the evening.

Having been relegated to the early matches in the past due to Batiatus' lack of standing with Tullius, Gannicus had never experienced a Coena Libera before and made the most of it. He had returned to the overly laden food tables numerous times and consumed more than two full plates of the delicious treats set out for him and his opponent. He was working on his third helping of dormice and vegetable pie, when out of his peripheral vision, he caught Octavia watching him eat with open mouthed surprise.

He frowned, his eating utensil frozen mid-air. "What? Do I have something on my face?" he asked, setting the utensil down and grabbing the linen cloth next to his plate. He dipped it into the small bowl of lemon water placed upon the table to wash hands with and wiped his mouth.

She chuckled softly and shook her head. "No. I am merely jealous of man's ability to eat to heart's content, yet never gain a pound. If I dared consume the amount of food you have this night, I would be the size of a cow! Where do you put it?"

He shrugged, set his napkin down and resumed eating. "Truth be told I do not usually eat like this. I have never tasted some of these foods and wanted a bite of everything," he admitted, chewing around another mouthful of the delectable pie.

Her hand slid up his thigh to his groin area and Gannicus jumped when she fondled him brazenly. "Then I shall endeavor to see your palate is always well satisfied from now on."

He gritted his teeth as she stroked his hardening cock. "Octavia…Batiatus feeds us well. I do not need any other special treatment."

"I seek only to make you comfortable and happy. Why do you refuse my offer? I would give you anything if only to see you smile."

Gannicus was honestly beginning to believe she would too. It made him decidedly uncomfortable. Appetite now gone, he pushed his plate away and leaned back in his seat, patting his full belly. "I am satisfied and happy," he assured her, plucking her hand from his lap and holding it captive against his chest. "There is nothing more I need." He kept her wandering hand hostage while he gave her the smile she wanted, if only to get her to drop fucking subject.

To his dismay, she leaned into him and her other hand took up residence on his cock again, rubbing and stroking him through the thick cloth of his breeches. He felt her tug at the laces of his pants and grabbed the offending hand to stop her from tearing his pants open but once again the other took its place and quickly had his pants untied. Recognizing defeat, Gannicus gave up attempting to hold her at bay. She was insistent on mauling him, and it appeared she had more hands than he could keep occupied to complete task. When she pulled his stiffening cock free from his breeches, he was hard-pressed to remain quiet. Did the woman seriously plan to rub him to completion right there in front of all of Capua?! Apparently so, because she began to stroke him, moving her hand slowly up and down his length, thumb swirling around and over the head just the way he liked. He sucked in a sharp breath but somehow managed to keep his expression calm and not give them away, despite the difficulty of keeping his groans of pleasure behind his teeth. He glanced at her out of the corner of his eye and could not believe how poised she was, smiling and chatting with Cossutius as if she did not have her talented fingers wrapped around his cock. When he was teetering on the edge, he closed his eyes, and images of another face, another hand stroking him to climax invaded mind. He opened his eyes and found her standing behind Domina, looking serene and beautiful. He bit back another groan. Melitta. It was her hand he wanted touching him. No, he wanted her mouth, like previously. He closed his eyes again, imagined her mouth on him, sucking him, swallowing him and that was all it took. With a soft grunt, he let go, spilling into Octavia's hand as he quietly reached his peak.

A moment later, Gannicus opened his eyes and glanced around warily, he was surprised and grateful that not a single soul had realized the Champion of Capua had just received an utterly inappropriate hand job under the table from the Noble blonde sitting to his right.

With a decidedly wicked smirk Octavia handed him a fresh napkin to clean up with as she used another to discreetly wipe her hand, removing any evidence regarding the service she had just provided.

"Well, that was exciting, was it not?"

Gannicus wanted to chastise her. Exciting because they had not been caught. However, it was foolish as well. If she had been seen… He chose not to contemplate those concerns. Instead he wagged his brows at her and flirted back. "If only I could sit next to you at all meals," he teased with a wink.

She giggled but was absent comment because her attention was snagged by Cossutius asking her a question. With Octavia sufficiently distracted, Gannicus cleaned himself up and quickly refastened his breeches before refiling his wine cup. He swallowed half the cup before sitting back in his seat and allowing his eyes to drift around the banquet area, still a bit shocked the enormous affair was for his match. He glanced down the long table to where his opponent sat. The man's name was Negrimus. The other gladiator had already been seated when Gannicus had arrived, so he had yet to size the man up. Not that it mattered, he could be another Theocoles and it would not change the fact that the man had to fall by his swords. Just then, his gaze was caught by Batiatus, as the man strutted about the room like a rooster in a hen house, eating up the accolades for his performance in the Vinalia while bragging about how well he would do in tomorrow's contest. Would the man be so quick to pose and posture about his victory if it was he who had to pay the price for those victories? Gannicus sincerely doubted it.

Hours later, the celebration was still in full swing when Gannicus finally found a quiet moment to himself towards the back of the banquet area. He was drinking wine straight from the amphora as he stood in the shadows watching as his opponent took his turn preening and posing for the ever-insatiable Romans, both patrician and plebian.

He was grateful to have some time alone, without having to entertain anyone, to examine the man he would battle tomorrow. He watched his opponent quietly, taking note of the brutal and ugly scars that marred his face and body. The man was older than Gannicus and a few inches taller, nowhere near the size of the giant he fought at the Vinalia though. He was well muscled, and the battle scars the man wore told a tale all their own. He had a brutal looking one that traveled from his right eye down the side of his face and into the thick dark beard and mustache the man sported. With evidence of so many fierce injuries distorting Negrimus's appearance, Gannicus determined he would be a hard man to kill. Any man who could sustain those kinds of wounds in battle would not go down easily. In fact, the man's scars reminded him of Oenomaus's and Gannicus knew what a difficult man he was to kill. Even the Shadow of Death had failed at the task!

It was a daunting thought.

As if his thoughts called the man himself, Oenomaus came to stand by his side. "You wear a frown again, as if you are Atlas, with the weight of the world upon your shoulders."

Gannicus turned, his frown fading into a smile. Their relationship had suffered a terrible blow, but Gannicus was pleased to see him tonight. It had been weeks since they had truly spoken, and he missed the man's friendship. "Oenomaus," he said and clasped his arm in the shake of their brotherhood. "Finally, someone to talk to that does not want something from me! When did you arrive? I did not see you earlier."

"I arrived just after you. In the wagon deemed unworthy of the Champion," he teased with a smirk.

Gannicus rolled his eyes. "It is no laughing matter. Did you bear witness to Domina's ire when she put me in place for receiving such a gift?"

Oenomaus nodded. "I did, but Dominus knows you are far too valuable to mete out punishment for circumstance not of your making."

Gannicus nodded in reply, then changed subject. Discussing Octavia or her fondness for giving him gifts that caused him undue stress was not a topic he wished to continue. "Why are you not at the table with Batiatus' party?" Gannicus asked. "As Doctore, you should be there."

"With the added nobles, there was not room. I am sitting with the other Doctore in the first row." He chuckled at Gannicus' look of surprise. "Perhaps you did not notice because you have been so busy filling your face with food."

Gannicus laughed heartily—he had eaten with gusto this day. "Ah, that explains it. These Roman's do know how to feed a man about to face death."

The older man nodded. "Before I faced Theocoles, they fed me so well, I was sure they were merely fattening me up because they felt I was to meet certain death the next day."

"I do not think I would favor facing The Shadow of Death feeling as I do now." He patted his flat stomach, which felt uncomfortably bloated, even if it did not appear so. "I fear they may have to wheel me into the arena in a cart tomorrow, I am so full."

Oenomaus chuckled while his obsidian eyes took notice of Gannicus's new wardrobe.

Keeping up the charade he had previously presented, Gannicus shrugged indifferently. "What can I say, the woman enjoys dressing me up in finery above my station."

Oenomaus looked doubtful for a moment, but he did not give voice to any lingering suspicions he may have had, and instead turned his attention towards Negrimus. "Your opponent is a seasoned warrior."

Gannicus looked to the man in question as well. "Yes. He bears many scars of battle. That tells me he is either unskilled or—"

"Or a hard man to kill," Oenomaus supplied, repeating Gannicus' own thoughts. "He is called The Un-Killable One."

"Un-killable?" Gannicus snorted. "No one is un-killable. Even Theocoles is not un-killable." He turned to Oenomaus and grinned. "Although it would take two men working as one to kill that giant. It could be done."

Oenomaus nodded. "You and I could take Theocoles," he said with a smirk.

Gannicus chuckled. "Of that I have no doubt."

"Speaking of the Shadow of Death, this man's scars remind me of his. Gruesome and telling a tale of many bloody battles."

"You speak of my very thoughts, brother," Gannicus said. "Except I compared his scars to yours." The gladiator glanced up at his Doctore. "What have you heard of this man I am to face?"

"He is a worthy opponent for you. I have heard tales that he is skilled in several fighting styles, one of which is the Retiarius. The net and trident are not weapons we had at the ludus until Gnaus, so you have not had the daily practice of defending against them."

"I have fought men of the Retiarius style in the past. They are difficult to defeat. That fucking net is constant problem."

"Yes, they are," Oenomaus agreed. "As is Negrimus, judging from his battle scars. However, I do not believe he will bring the net and trident tomorrow. Bearing the two swords as a dimachaeri or my style as provocator would be a better match to you and offer a far more exciting battle for the public."

"I agree," he said with a nod. He noticed Oenomaus was watching Negrimus intently, a frown upon his brow and Gannicus clapped him on the back. "Now who is beset with heavy brow?" he teased. "Come, do not fret so. Surely the man cannot be as hard to defeat as the Mighty Oenomaus? And I have managed to take you apart upon occasion!"

Oenomaus smiled indulgently, yet his face quickly became serious again. "Do not take this man lightly, Gannicus," he said ominously. "Do not jest or pose for your public during contest as you have in the past. Focus mind, and when you have the chance to send him to the after-life—take it. Do not hesitate and do not allow him to rise again if you have him down."

The tone of his brother's words saw smile removed and Gannicus became serious as well. "You believe this man can beat me." It was not voiced as a question.

"You mistake meaning. I know you can best any man if focused, but this man is far more skilled than many of the opponents you have faced in the last year since Batiatus lost Tullius' favor. You must admit that."

Gannicus nodded. "Agreed."

"Any time we step upon the sands, we face death," Oenomaus reminded him, clasping him on the shoulder. "You are no longer fighting in the early contests where you are far superior to the men you face. You are fighting in the Primus. The greatest of all matches." Oenomaus's face took on a dream-like countenance, as if he were remembering another time when he was the one who had the glory. "The opponents you will face are men of great skill." He smiled at Gannicus. "But you are better. I believe you can and will be victorious against this man as long as you concentrate on seeing task done and do not allow attention to wander during contest."

Gannicus nodded, his brows drawn down as Oenomaus's words struck a chord within. "As always, your words of advice are well received, brother. Gratitude."

"None required, I merely seek to ensure my wife does not take me to task for not properly guiding you to victory."

Gannicus's brows shot up. "Melitta asked you to impart words?"

Oenomaus nodded. "She worries for you…you know that."

Oenomaus' words caused his gaze to stray to the dining table where Melitta was standing behind the Domina's chair. To his surprise, he found her eyes upon him and his heart fluttered in his chest at the intensity with which she was studying him. He told himself it was nothing, yet his love-sick heart immediately began to pound as a glimmer of hope was reborn within heart and mind. Their eyes held for several moments before Gannicus glanced away, reminding himself that Melitta had never truly encouraged his feelings; it was time he put foolish musings to rest and let her go as she had asked.

He raised his amphora of wine to Oenomaus. "Then I will fight for her tomorrow, since she was wise enough to have you offer such words of wisdom…" He took several long swallows, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand before flashing his signature cocky grin. "Ease mind, brother, I promise I will not fall and leave you to weep with the rest of the women!"

*8*

At the back of the dais, Melitta watched the two men converse. It warmed heart to see Oenomaus and Gannicus breaking words and laughing together as they used to. Melitta studied them quietly, so different, yet so similar too. Without intent, she found herself comparing the two men who held a place in her heart. Each was incredibly bold and attractive to her in their own way. Also, each had their means of deflection. With Oenomaus, it was brooding silence and deep reflection that distanced himself. With Gannicus, it was boastful jests, drink and his many women that kept others at a distance. Oenomaus possessed a regal handsomeness, a good and generous heart and was the most honorable man she had ever known. She loved and admired him deeply. Gannicus, and her feelings for him, was far more complicated. He was an enigmatic blend of cocky charm and vulnerable insecurity, and quite possibly, the most physically alluring man she had ever laid eyes upon; his smile would cause even the coldest heart to melt. However, he used his many affairs to hide how vulnerable he was when he cared. Melitta was one of the very few who understood that behind the mask of brash womanizer, lay the heart of a man who wanted to love and be loved in return.

Gannicus suddenly glanced her way and she found herself unable to look away. In truth, she had barely managed to keep eyes off him all day. His body seemed to glow golden and everything about him, from his jewelry to his coloring, seemed bright and shiny and breath-taking. He truly did look like the golden Adonis the Romans called him. Abruptly, he returned his attention to Oenomaus, raising his ever-present jug of wine in salute before taking a long drink. He said something to her husband that had them sharing a laugh before they parted ways and Gannicus returned to his seat on the dais, avoiding her gaze now as she had previously avoided his. Ridiculously, she felt the sting of tears at his dismissal, even as she told herself it was for the best. Finally, he was heeding words to let her be, but she was lying to herself and she knew it; Melitta found herself missing his longing looks.

Would she ever be free from the entangled vines of attraction that drew her to him like a moth to flame?

*8*

A short while later, Gannicus was in his seat at the table, working on putting away his second amphora of wine when his mind wandered (as it seemed determined to do) back to Melitta. The effects of the wine he had consumed made it easier to lose focus on the promise made (just an hour previously) to let her go. Why could they not be as friends again? He missed her terribly and he was tired of the tension between them. It had to end and, with the alcohol as impetus, Gannicus got up from the table and made his way across the dais to where Melitta stood behind Lucretia.

Melitta saw him coming. He had a stubborn tilt to his chin and a look of single-minded purpose upon his handsome face as he weaved his way towards her. Melitta's heart began to pound. They had managed to avoid any more discussions of their feelings, yet hers were still struggling to make themselves known and Gannicus appeared as if he were ready to make his public! He was obviously deep in his cups. In such a state, it was impossible to predict what might fall from lips, and Melitta began to panic the closer he got; she could not speak with him in such condition.

"Melitta, I would have words," he whispered, trying to keep voice down so the Domina would not take notice.

Her brow furrowed, and she shook her head, but Gannicus was driven to have their issues resolved and doggedly refused to leave.

"Gannicus, please," Melitta hissed, praying to the Gods he did not create scene. "I am not available to have them presently."

"Then I will break them here."

"Gannicus, you cannot…"

"What I cannot do," he said, interrupting her, and raising his voice, "is remain quiet any longer. I miss you and would see fences mended."

The tone of Gannicus' voice caught Lucretia's ear and she glanced behind her shoulder to see what was causing such a disturbance. What she saw caused her temper and heart rate to rise. Gannicus had Melitta cornered and the intense expression on his face, as well as the heightened color and distress on Melitta's, made obvious the intimate nature of discussion. Lucretia recognized trouble brewing when she saw it and her eyes quickly scanned the banquet area for Octavia, hoping the woman was not observing the interaction between the two slaves. She found her by the wine table in conversation with Varis, Cossutius, the Magistrate, Sextus and a few other nobles. However, the blond Roman's eyes continuously sifted through the crowd, seeking (Lucretia believed) Gannicus and his whereabouts. Lucretia hoped to eliminate situation before she did lay eyes upon them, yet luck was not on her side and, in that moment, Octavia's gaze found him. She paused in conversing, eyes narrowing as she took in the sight before her. Gannicus was not even aware he was being watched as he pushed Melitta towards having words with him. Octavia did not look happy and after the loud and boisterous tantrum her jealousy had caused earlier that day, Lucretia could not allow Gannicus to incite the woman into creating a similar scene at such a public event.

"Gannicus!" Lucretia said, causing both Melitta and Gannicus to jump at the harsh sound of her voice. "Have you lost mind?! Now is not the time," she hissed, purposefully glancing towards where Octavia stood.

Gannicus turned and followed Lucretia's gaze until his eyes met the green orbs of his mistress. He had forgotten about her, but she had obviously not forgotten about him. She looked angry. He muttered a curse under his breath. What was he thinking? He could not allow Octavia to unleash her terrible temper upon Melitta.

"Apologies Domina," he told Lucretia as he pulled himself together. "I merely wanted to thank Melitta for sending Oenomaus to me."

Lucretia nodded, but her expression spoke plainly she did not believe him. "And you have done so. However, a public showing of gratitude is unwise is it not? Considering there is one with gaze constantly upon you," Lucretia said, tilting her head and directing Gannicus surreptitiously towards Octavia again.

He nodded. Lucretia was right. If Octavia had the slightest idea he held Melitta in tender regards…Gannicus did not want to put thoughts upon her reaction. He was sure it would be dire. "I bend to your wisdom," he conceded softly, his eyes going to Melitta again for just a moment and taking in her beauty like a man starved for drink.

"Very good," Lucretia told him, hastening him to leave Melitta alone. "Now go…entertain your fans. After all, they are here for you." Gannicus nodded and turned to leave, but Lucretia called him back. "And Gannicus…" she said, "perhaps you should absent yourself from wine for the rest of the evening. I believe you have had enough."

She was not happy, or perhaps, she simply did not care for him. Gannicus was unsure, but he did know his behavior tonight had not helped cause. "Domina," Gannicus said bowing to her decree, and with one last longing glance towards Melitta, he took his leave.

Octavia was waiting for him as he left the dais. "What was that about?"

"Nothing. She sent her husband, Oenomaus, to speak with me earlier regarding my opponent. His words were greatly appreciated," Gannicus explained, adeptly avoiding her interrogation.

He gave her a grin and turned on the charm, coaxing her into lighter mood before he began mingling with his fans again. He reveled in the manner with which they adored him, and Gannicus returned their favor in kind; conversing with his public for the remainder of the banquet until Batiatus came and told him it was time to leave.