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.
*8* Wow I cannot believe how many reviews this has now! Thanks to everyone who has taken that extra moment to let me know what you think. It inspires the writing muse. :)
Chapter 28: ab imo pectore: From the deepest chest.
Gannicus sat forward from his position on his bed to stare at the bones she rolled. His brows shot up to his hairline as he set gaze upon another Venus. "You must be cheating!" he complained, confounded on how she had rolled yet another so quickly. "How can you roll such a thing twice in a row?!" He scowled at her. "I am lucky if I roll a Venus once a game, much less twice in as many rolls!" He grabbed up a couple of the bones and held them up to his eye, examining them as if they were somehow fixed in her favor.
She adjusted the pillow behind her back. "They are your bones, Gannicus. How could I mark them?" she asked, rolling her eyes at his antics.
He shook his head. "I am not sure, but either you are cheating, or Naevia stands correct, and you are luckiest person to ever roll bones." He set the pieces back on the board and picked up his wine. "I wish I could take you to the gambling dens in Neapolis," he said, giving her his 'charm' smile. "We would make a fortune!"
"You offer charming grin to hide refusal to give points," she said, and snatched the scoring tablet from his lap.
"I did no such thing!" he replied, but his cheeky smile said he had done exactly that.
"Your underhanded tricks will not save you! I am close to five hundred points," she bragged as she scratched her hundred points for the Venus in her column. She glanced up at him, her own smile teasing. "A Vulture of mere threes will give me the points needed to win. And then I will beat you…again!"
Gannicus was pleased to see her jesting with him. She teased him much as Melitta used to. He missed her and, while he knew he could not have her as he desired, he wished they could be friends once again.
"Gannicus?" Diona prompted bringing him out of his thoughts. His brooding expression must have given away the direction his mind had drifted because Diona said, "you must strike her from thought, or see scowl etched permanently upon brow."
It was teasingly said, yet there was truth in Diona's words and he followed her advice, banishing thoughts of Melitta to the very far reaches of his mind before they soured mood altogether.
"You will not beat me," Gannicus said as he scooped up the bones and gave her a mock scowl. "That would put you ahead four games to one. A thing I refuse to allow," he said and tossed the pieces upon the board between them. He got a vulture—all sixes. "Aha!" he crowed, his smile wide and boastful. "Add fifty points to my score." He took a sip of wine and winked at her. "I promise I will catch you before this contest ends!"
Diona turned away. Gannicus had not taken her to his bed, but she had feelings for him and wished to be in his arms again. However, after her conversation with Melitta the night of the gladiator feast, she kept her tender emotions hidden. She was afraid if he realized she was developing true stirrings for him, he might stop spending his time with her.
"It is your turn," he said, drawing her out of her musings.
Diona enjoyed his company too much to risk losing it by asking for more. She accepted the 'bones' he handed her and teased, "That is what you said the last time…yet you still ended up giving me a foot massage, with promise made for three more." She gave him a teasing smile. "Are you certain you do not wish to quit before you lose all hope of recovering?"
He chuckled evilly. "Perhaps I only allowed you to win just so I could get my hands upon you!" he said and swallowed the rest of his wine.
She could not help it; his words caused a rush of desire to shoot through her as her mind imagined his hands on her, but not on feet. She sucked in a sharp breath as her entire body flushed hot. A deep, rosy blush splashed across her cheeks and she looked away quickly.
Seeing her reaction, Gannicus realized how thoughtless he was to say such a thing. She desired more from him than he could give, and he should not tease her in such fashion. "Apologies again, Diona. My tongue has a way of making jackass of me when I tip drink."
She shook off her cravings and smiled at him with genuine affection. He did not mean to torture…she knew this. "None required. You seek to protect me—even from my own desires. I am grateful."
"Not just your desires, Diona," he said huskily. The memory of his reaction to her earlier during his bath still fresh in mind. "You know I have strong urges where you are concerned, but I cannot act on them. It could bear unfortunate circumstance if I did."
"Has the Roman woman not left for Rome?"
He nodded. "But the memory of her frightful jealousy has yet to fade."
"I understand sentiment. Naevia told me of that woman's rage towards Melitta before she departed. I would not have her setting gaze upon me in such a way. Domina will protect Melitta. I fear I am without her sympathies."
Gannicus' brows drew down as he recalled Octavia's cruel attack on Melitta. He did not want to think of it or discuss it; situation still enraged. He had yet to break words with Melitta and apologize for his mistress' bad behavior. He turned topic from Melitta and offered Diona his assurances he would spare her as best he could.
"You would have my protection," he told her seriously. "If Octavia ever set wrath upon you, I would take responsibility and receive punishment in your stead."
Diona's heart melted just that much more at his words. "You are a good man, Gannicus, despite your insistence that you are not."
He let out a sigh and poured himself another cup of wine. "I am glad you believe it so, but I fear your view of me is distorted. I am not quite as honorable as you believe," he said, thinking of his desire for a brother's wife or how close he had been several times to simply using Diona herself for his own base needs, despite knowing it would hurt her in the end.
Sensing he was sinking into a funk, she grabbed the bones from him. "You attempt distraction. It will not save you," she told him and rolled the bones.
Gannicus glanced down at the board, saw the Vulture of all fours and groaned. That was the game. He took final sip, set his wine aside and held out his hands. "Give me your foot…" he said with a sigh.
*8*
Gannicus was in good spirits. Octavia was on her way back to Rome. For the first couple days, he had kept watchful eye, as if expecting her to reappear, but it had finally sunk in this morning; she was truly gone, and he was free. For the first time in what seemed an eternity, he felt the noose around his neck from her obsession no longer choking him. He was his old self again as he joked with his brothers' while they trained, his lighthearted smile gracing his face easily. That is unless he looked upon Oenomaus. Only then would feel the guilt of his own actions arise to nag him; which is why he kept gaze off the man as much as possible and simply followed instructions without complaint.
His only other worry was Melitta. He wanted to have words with her and offer apologies for what she had suffered at Octavia's hand, but she was once again avoiding him it seemed, and he feared seeing one another would only add to their heavy burdens. He was desperately trying to hold on to honorable intent, but her memory would not fade; Gannicus knew it never would. She held his heart and he would not be having it back, yet he could not have her as he hungered for, and the thought of living in this ludus while being denied her love… It caused great sadness to well up inside. He was in terrible dilemma, one he still had no clear path to escape despite passage of time.
*8*
Midway through the day, a wagon pulled up to the gates and the men all turned to Gannicus.
Duratius paused in his sparring with Barca to flash Gannicus a grin. "It looks like the King is getting some new jewels for his cell!" he teased in a loud voice. "What do you think it will be this time?"
Barca joined in, always up for teasing Gannicus. "Perhaps a golden crown to set upon his perfect golden head!"
Duratius burst into laughter. "Or mayhap a throne, so he may sit at his table and eat like the noble his woman would have him!"
They were ribbing him, so Gannicus did not truly take it to heart. He rolled his eyes at the two men while a few of the other brothers joined in, laughing at his expense. "Close fucking mouth, all of you, before flies realize how often lips flap lips absent thought and decide to take nest!"
His response was good natured, yet, it did bother him to be receiving more gifts and his stomach tightened as Batiatus came out on the balcony just as slaves and guards entered the yard to inspect and unload the cart.
"Gannicus, I would have words," the man said and one of the guards came to his side to escort him into the villa.
Gannicus sighed and followed the guard off the yard. Just when he was feeling free—the noose was back. Gannicus sorely resented the woman for forcing her will upon him, despite lack of physical presence. However, he maintained a stoic façade, knowing Batiatus would not approve his turning her gifts away.
Once inside, he was led to the balcony where Batiatus waited.
"What did she send me this time?" Gannicus asked wearily. He could not imagine what more she thought he needed. He was living nearly as well as his Dominus as it was!
"Actually, this wagon isn't for you. It is for the men." Gannicus frowned, and Batiatus went on to explain. "Before Octavia departed, you expressed a desire to have their living arrangements improved. Did you not?"
Gannicus nodded. "I did, but I do not truly expect her to support every fucking man in the ludus."
"Well she is. The woman gave me over a thousand denarii to have that wish met. Each of your brothers', as well as Oenomaus, will all receive a pillow, new blankets and linens for their bed, a fur to warm their floor and their bed, a cloak, a set of street clothes, ten candles and two jugs of wine. Although not the Falernian you enjoy," he said with a smirk.
Gannicus mouth opened and closed without saying a word; for once he was stunned speechless.
Batiatus chuckled at seeing his champion stripped of clever tongue. "Break fucking words, Gannicus…what say you now? I know she asks much from you, but you must admit, Octavia is very generous with you as well."
He shook his head, dazed. "I have no words to break," he replied honestly. "It is more than I ever imagined, and yes, very generous."
"She asks not for credit, either. She insists the men believe this all came from you."
"From me?!" he exclaimed. And then, he laughed outright. "And where the fuck would I get the coin needed to pay for such things?!" He shook his head. "It is impossible, and the men will know it for the falsehood it is. You may as well tell them Jupiter himself sent the fucking wagon. They would believe that before they believe I had enough coin for such luxuries."
Batiatus nodded. "True. But the men will believe tale if we say you forfeited your purse from your victories in the Vinalia and Floralia…and I supplied the balance of coin needed."
"Why break from truth at all? I have no care if the men know this came from Octavia."
"Well, she wants them to believe it comes from you. We shall honor fucking wishes."
Gannicus barely resisted rolling his eyes. As if the man would ever spend such coin on his men… However, he was in no position to argue point. "An acceptable idea," he said finally, capitulating to Batiatus' command. "And far more believable than I provided so many gifts with naught but my own winnings. Gratitude, Dominus."
"Not necessary, Gannicus. I hope this balances scale between you and your brethren and alleviates the strain you have felt since Octavia took interest in you."
Gannicus nodded. It was a start. "Is that all?" the gladiator asked, wanting to return to training.
"Remain a moment longer," Batiatus said, "There is one small matter I must discuss." He poured himself a glass of wine, while Gannicus waited for him to come to point. "Octavia has a special event planned for opening ceremonies of the Apolloinares, so, I am going to need you to become passably proficient with a bow."
Gannicus's eyes widened in surprise before irritation cropped up and his brows lowered. "To what purpose? Why would she need me—?"
Quintus cut off his complaints with a wave of his hand. "Before you get yourself worked up, it is already planned. You will do it."
Gannicus sighed. "What has she planned then?"
"A reenactment of Apollo slaying the mighty python who guarded the oracle of Delphi. You are playing Apollo and you will need to shoot the python in the head with an arrow. There is a bow and a set of arrows in that wagon. You can practice after training each day or during, whatever you choose. Just become comfortable enough with the weapon that you won't be the only Apollo in history to not kill the fucking snake!"
Gannicus grumbled about Octavia and her grand ideas but told Batiatus he would indeed start practicing later that same day.
"That is all I ask." Batiatus said. He smiled and presented an arm towards the balcony. "Shall we tell the men of their good fortune, now?"
Gannicus nodded. His happiness at being able to give his brothers some added comforts outweighing his irritation at Octavia for giving him yet another silly task to complete. The fact that she did such a thing and never told him or demanded anything of him in return gave her gesture true meaning.
"Doctore," Batiatus called out from the balcony, Gannicus at his side. "Gather the men."
Oenomaus cracked his whip. "Attend!" he called, signaling for the men to present themselves for their Dominus.
Batiatus waited for them to be lined up before he began "The cart being unloaded today is not for our Champion…or for my house. It is for you." The men showed varying degrees of surprise and Batiatus went on to explain. "Each of you has been given a boon today and you can thank our Champion for your good fortune. Since Gannicus garnered the sponsorship of Octavia Severus, his standard of living has improved, yet the differences between brothers caused him concern. He came to me and offered his winnings in both The Vinalia and The Floralia to provide some additional items for you—his brothers. His generosity inspired me, and I provided additional coin to see his desires met."
The men gaped at Gannicus for a moment, before erupting in cheers and whistles; shouting his name.
Batiatus proceeded to tell them all they would receive as the slaves unloaded the large crates from the wagon. One for each man in the ludus.
"Doctore, give the men their midday repast early. Allow them to eat and go to their cells to examine and put away their new belongings. They can resume training afterwards."
Oenomaus nodded. "Dominus."
"And you too, Oenomaus. One of those crates is for you as well." Batiatus smiled. "A reward well deserved."
Gannicus squirmed a bit when Oenomaus's obsidian eyes met his own with warmth radiating from them. "Gratitude," he said softly, holding Gannicus's gaze for a moment, before turning to the men. "Well, you heard Dominus…take your crate and return to your cells to peruse generous bounty our Champion has provided for us all." He halted the men with one warning. "Heed words, the wine is for after training ends, not presently. Drink it, and see flesh stripped from bone for disobeying direct command."
The men all acquiesced to Oenomaus's instruction before they swarmed upon the crates, all of them eager to see the goods given to them.
Once the spectacle was over, Gannicus turned to Batiatus. "I would like to make statement true and offer my winnings in both contests towards the items the men received today."
"Why? They all believe you already have."
"Yet, I know I did not." Gannicus had enough lies complicating his existence. He detested the untruths that were forced from his lips of late. In this, he did not need another. When Batiatus looked like he might argue further, Gannicus pressed his desire. "I would feel I earned their gratitude in the doing. Please…Dominus, allow me this."
Batiatus shrugged. He had used Octavia's generosity to further secure his men's loyalty this day, having Gannicus return the coin he earned would only add to the coffers of the ludus and make the day a truly profitable one. "If that is your desire. I won't fucking argue point."
"Gratitude," Gannicus said, a smile finally making its way across his face as he watched the men below maneuvering the heavy crates into the ludus.
"It is I who am grateful. I achieve the goodwill of my men without coin being spent."
*8*
Later that evening, Melitta came into her husband's cell and smiled as she watched him marveling at his new comforts. There were candles and clothes sitting on his bed and he was still bent over the crate, going through the bounteous gifts Gannicus had provided for his brothers. Word had spread through the villa and her heart had swelled at the generosity the blonde gladiator had displayed today. It proved what she had always known about Gannicus…that behind the façade of drunken jester beat the heart of a good man.
"Do you feel as pampered as Gannicus now?" she teased from the doorway.
Oenomaus glanced up, a large fur in hand. "It is so much. He did not need to do this. I believe he feels guilty for his good fortune, although the why of it escapes me."
Melitta shook her head at him. "Does it really matter?" she asked, knowing Gannicus did feel guilty for reasons she prayed Oenomaus would never become aware of. "Perhaps his generosity does not stem from guilt at all and he is simply wanting to share good fortune with those dearest to him."
He set his two amphoras of wine on the floor beside his bed, which was laden with all the other items he had unloaded from the crate. "Look at all this. Gannicus's winnings, while substantial, could not purchase such items."
"They did not. Batiatus provided the extra coin from what I understand."
Oenomaus looked doubtful and Melitta sought to ease his mind. "Why are you setting mind to find fault where none lies? Accept generous gift with the spirit offered. Gannicus loves you and would share with you and his brothers. That is a thing to be treasured, not leveled with suspicion."
Oenomaus sighed and then smiled as he set the fur upon his bed. He took her hand and kissed her knuckles. "As always, you offer words of compassionate wisdom." He pulled her down next to him and grinned. "I will see they find way through thick skull," he teased.
She smiled back at him warmly and sat with him to help him sort through all the new things he now possessed. "He was truly generous," she marveled, taking note of the enormous amount of luxuries provided.
Oenomaus poured them each a cup of wine. "He was. I wish he were so generous with his company of late." The big man sighed. "He avoids me as if I have offended, yet I can think of naught I have done to warrant the haunted look he gets when he sets gaze upon me."
Melitta shifted uncomfortably. "He has had much on his mind. Give him time—"
"Time for what, Melitta?" He scowled, staring off into space for a moment. "What has happened to the man that he needs time to speak with old friend?"
Melitta had no words. She could offer no comfort despite knowing cause. Oenomaus turned to her, reaching for her to hold her close, and to her horror, Melitta flinched when he touched her.
Oenomaus pulled back, gazing down at her, a worried frown upon noble brow. "What is wrong?"
Melita swallowed thickly. How could she cringe when he put hands on her? It was beyond her worst nightmares. "I caught sudden chill," she lied, forcing a serene smile to her lips that she in no way felt.
He hesitated, as if he might question her further.
Eager to ward off such an interrogation, Melitta leaned forward and brushed a kiss across his lips. She pressed forward trying to feel the passion she used to feel when in his arms, but the fire between them was not there, and it broke heart that she had lost that connection with him. When he wrapped his arms around her and pulled her with him to the bed, Melitta went willingly, surrendering to his embrace, and as his kisses became more demanding and heated, she returned them in kind, yet it was not Oenomaus she was picturing as her breathing became frantic. It was another man's face that Melitta had in mind as she took her husband into her body; shame gripped her, but it did not stop the visions of his golden body on top of hers, inside her, filling her… it appeared that had become impossible task.
Later as she lay in Oenomaus' arms, Melitta could not escape the guilt that clawed her insides. "I must return to the villa," she told him, unable to continue the façade any longer.
Oenomaus' eyes widened. "But it is our night…"
"Apologies," she said, "it is unavoidable, which is why I came early tonight. Domina has demanded a milk bath tomorrow before her morning meal and I must ensure there is enough on hand. If not, I must send Seraphina to the marketplace first thing to acquire more." It was a weak excuse and Melitta knew it, but she simply had to escape.
He sighed. "Are you certain that is all it is, Melitta?"
"I am," she told him. "Rest mind and enjoy your new furnishings." She gave him a warm kiss and got up from his bed. It was all she could do to keep smile upon face as she redressed.
Oenomaus came to her and took hold of her chin, making her look at him. "You remain as distant as Gannicus of late." Melitta's heart seized with fear at his words. "You have mentioned secrets within the walls of the villa. I can see it troubles you." His stared deeply into her eyes, as if attempting to will the truth from her, and it was all Melitta could do not to break down in tears. "Speak of such things. Bring them from dust and shadow to light and see overburdened mind eased in the doing."
She pulled away from him, breaking eye contact. "You ask me to defy direct command from my Domina," she replied, wishing he would let subject drop. "If Titus asked you to do keep his words in shadow, would you bring it to my ears and share?"
He frowned at that. "I would not," he admitted finally.
"Yet you ask me to betray Lucretia." Melitta took a deep breath. "I would not have us quarrel over this, Oenomaus." She leaned up and gave him another kiss. "Please understand."
He nodded, and she placed a hand on his strong jaw, saddened because her marriage was truly suffering due to her feelings for Gannicus, and there was naught she could do. She simply could not stop her heart from desiring him, it was too late, as sentiment had grown to overwhelming proportion.
"I must truly go," she said softly, and this time, Oenomaus let her.
*8*
Melitta was in the cold cellar under the ludus checking on the milk supply when she heard a sound behind her. She turned and was stunned to see Gannicus standing there. "What are you doing here? How did you get past the guards?"
"I plied them with wine and gifts," he told her, taking a step towards her. "Now that I am champion, I have more freedom within the ludus."
Melitta backed away from him. "What do you want?"
His smile was deliciously wicked. "You know what I desire, Melitta."
She continued her retreat. "You cannot do this."
He backed her against the stone wall of the cellar. "I can, and what's more, you want me to."
She shook her head. "No, Gannicus. This is wrong."
"It is not wrong. You love me. Despite what you feel for Oenomaus, I am the one who holds your heart."
She thought to deny it, but when he leaned forward, Melitta tilted her face, unconsciously seeking him.
He stroked a knuckle down her cheek. "If given choice all those years ago, Melitta, who would you have picked for yourself, Oenomaus or me?"
She trembled as she tried to answer, but no sound came from lips.
He smirked. "I am the one. You know this as do I."
And with those words, his mouth closed over hers and she moaned deeply, shivers racing along nerve endings as his tongue swept into her mouth, conquering her. In mere moments, clothes were dispatched, and they were in each other's arms, skin to skin. Several deep wet kisses later, Gannicus picked her up in his arms and carried her over to a spot with more privacy as Melitta wrapped her arms around his shoulders, and her legs around his trim waist, kissing him wildly as he maneuvered them into an alcove off to the side of the cellar. He sat down on a small cot there, Melitta in his lap.
His fingers slid along her naked back, up and down along her spine. "Ride me," he panted, trailing hot kisses down the side of her neck; he nipped at her flesh, causing her to gasp in pleasure.
Melitta lifted herself up as he guided himself to her entrance, once positioned, she sank down, taking his thick length inside her with a whimpering sigh; the sheer delight of having him within her once again caused head to spin with pleasure. "Gannicus!" she moaned, clutching him to her in desperate grip.
He took hold of her hips and began to guide her movements up and down his impressive shaft. Melitta braced her hands upon his muscular shoulders and helped him along, riding his cock with abandon. Her orgasm hit her fast and hard, and Melitta threw her head back and cried his name as deep shudders of ecstasy wracked her body.
Suddenly the curtain that hid their tryst was ripped aside revealing the twisted, angry face of the Roman woman.
"Octavia!" Gannicus' face showed plainly his shocked surprise and fear at seeing her; he was caught, cock still inside Melitta's body. "I thought you were for Rome?"
It was absurd comment considering her presence before him and the compromising position she found them in, but his words gave proof to mouth working absent thought.
The woman leveled terrifying gaze upon him. "I knew you were still fucking her!" she screeched, her eyes wild and enraged. "You will watch her die for this!"
The guards were called and Melitta was physically ripped from his body. Gannicus was restrained and placed in shackles as the two of them were dragged naked out to the training yard by several guards led by a vengeful Octavia. Oenomaus was there, his dark eyes full of hatred as Melitta was unceremoniously dumped onto the sand of the yard, absent clothes and dignity. Batiatus and Lucretia were upon the balcony looking down at her. They shook their heads at her, disapproving scowls upon their faces. It was obvious there would be no missio given this day. There was a long wooden beam lying next to her and she sobbed in fright and horror as she was lifted, and placed upon the beam, arms outstretched. Gannicus was forced to his knees on the ground before her. His handsome face a mask of raw suffering.
"Melitta," he murmured, tears in his eyes, his sorrow plain. "I am sorry. Forgive me."
The Roman smacked him upside the head in cruel fashion, ending his words. "Hold tongue and watch!" the woman hissed as she took hold of his chin and forced his head towards where Melitta lay. "This is what happens when you share what belongs to me!"
Gannicus began pleading for her life. "Octavia, I will do anything. Please. Take me. Punish me. I am to blame, not her. Please. Do not harm her. Spare her and take me. Octavia, pleeeasse!"
Melitta could hear the anguish in his voice as he threw himself upon the Roman's mercy, imploring the woman to spare her, to no avail. Terror washed over her as she saw the hammer raise and then she felt the first nail as it entered her hand. Her mouth opened to scream, yet no sound came, but the pain… the pain was excruciating, and unlike anything she had ever felt. She began to convulse in agony, and then she was suddenly in his arms, she was covered in blood and Gannicus was gazing down upon her, a tortured look on his face as he called her name again and again, begging her to "breathe" in a voice so distraught it sounded torn from his very soul.
"Melitta, breathe!"
With a bloodcurdling shriek, Melitta bolted upright in bed. She was trembling, drenched in sweat, her body still tingling from the climax she must have had in her sleep before her pleasant dream took a decidedly dark turn. She looked down at her hands and chest, half expecting to see bloody wounds there. Gannicus' voice echoed in brain and Melitta knew the memory of the agonized sound of him crying her name and begging for her life would never fade. It would haunt her throughout this life and into the next, so tormented had he been. It was the worst of her nightmares yet.
Melitta arose from her small cot and poured herself a cup of water. Her teeth chattered and her hand was still shaking as she brought the cup to her lips. This newest dream struck true terror in heart. It had started off so wonderful yet ended in tragedy. Were the Gods trying to warn her? Was her love for Gannicus doomed to end in bitter consequence? She thought of the words her dream Gannicus had asked, regarding her choices if she'd had them to make. What was the meaning of it? It made her ponder what her answer would be. Until recently, if asked, she would have said Oenomaus was choice no matter circumstance of their marriage. Now, she was not so certain, and that tormented mind. She loved her husband, yet she had fallen in love with Gannicus, too. Now, she could not choose. What did that say for her love of Oenomaus?
Melitta set her cup down and returned to her bed. She decided to forego returning to Morpheus' realm, fearing what awaited her there presently. Instead, she dressed for the day, setting mind to purpose towards what she knew she must do if she wanted to avoid having her dreams become reality. Tears sprung to her eyes, but Melitta determinedly wiped them away. She would do what she must because she feared madness was not the worst consequence awaiting her if she did not.
*8*
The next evening, Gannicus was alone in his cell, brooding due to feeling restless and bored with no means to alleviate situation. Several of his brothers had left early that morning with Oenomaus and Batiatus for a trip to Nola to participate in the games at the arena the next day and, despite knowing he could not fight in such a lesser venue when he was scheduled to battle in Rome at the Apolloinares, he still felt left out. He was happy for Barca, Duratius and the others, but he wanted to be there too, if only to cheer his brothers on as they claimed victory for themselves and the House. He sighed and took another sip of his wine. He would summon Diona to share drink with, but due to his present mood, it was probably not a wise decision. Octavia had left several days ago, and he had been absent a woman's touch since. He wanted to fuck, but he had enough complications in his life due to women without adding "fucking Diona" to his woes.
He heard a light tap on his door and glanced up, surprised, happy and wary simultaneously when he spied Melitta standing there. "Apologies for barging in on you," she said softly, "but I would have words if you are agreeable."
"Of course," he said, sitting up straighter on his bed. He grabbed a cup and poured her some wine. "Tip drink with an old friend?" he said, hoping she would accept his offering.
Melitta wandered into his quarters, giving a passing glance to the rich furnishings that had appeared since she was last there. She hesitated for a moment before taking the glass. "Gratitude," she told him and took a sip. Her eyes widened at the delicious flavor. "The woman does give you generous gifts," she said. "This is Falernian, is it not?"
"It is," he agreed. "She has much coin." He waved an arm to encompass his improved surroundings. "And seems to enjoy spending a majority of it on me." He shrugged. "I have tried to make her stop, but she refuses to heed words."
Melitta could see he was embarrassed of his newly acquired finery. "She desires your affections and seeks to purchase them. It is not your burden to bear, Gannicus," she told him gently.
He appreciated her sentiment. "Gratitude," he said, his eyes roaming her face like a man starved for drink and she was cool glass of water. "Melitta—"
"Gannicus—"
They both stopped and stared.
Gannicus chuckled. "You first."
She shook her head, desiring to hear his words before sharing her own.
He nodded and broke the words he had been wanting to have since Octavia's last visit. "Apologies for Octavia's abuse of you. I never wanted her to turn jealousy upon you. I foolishly did something that alerted her to my feelings for you." He took a healthy swallow of wine when Melitta looked away at the mention of his stirrings. He did not let it deter him. He felt remorse and needed to let her know. "I can only say I thought I had appeased her ire and solved problem, but I was wrong. I am sorry you suffered for my failure."
"Gratitude for the apology, Gannicus, but it was not required. I hold you no blame." She took a seat on the edge of the bed, near him, but with enough distance between them where it was not too intimate. "Fault does not lie at your feet for her actions, even if you did call my name in your sleep," she said with a small eye roll as if saying 'what were you thinking?'. To his horror, Gannicus felt his face flush warm. "Despite your slip, the blame for unpleasant circumstance falls to the Roman woman and no other."
He nodded. "I stand relieved." He sighed and ran a hand through his hair. "We have enough burdens between us without adding more shit to the heap." He tried to tease, but it fell short. Smile faded before it took shape.
"Which brings me to my purpose for seeking you out," Melitta said, finishing off her wine. Gannicus poured her another glass as she seemed to gather her thoughts. "What I said to you…relating to what stirs within my heart…"
Gannicus downed his glass of wine as well and poured himself another; if she was about to say something hurtful, he might need the liquid courage to face her words.
Melitta wrung her hands before her, obviously struggling with her words. "I should never have burdened you with my conflicted emotions. It can only add to confusion and hurt feelings."
"Can we not put it behind us?" he asked, the hope he felt plain on his handsome face.
"I cannot see it so, Gannicus," Melitta replied sadly.
Her dream and the reaction she'd had to Oenomaus haunted memory. She did not see another way out except to end all ties with the one who caused her heart to stray.
"What are you saying, Melita?" he asked quietly. He drank half the new glass as well; judging her expression, he would need it.
She set her wine down and took his hand in both of hers. "I would like nothing more than to return to how we were, I too miss the friendship…"
A tear slipped down her cheek, and with a sinking feeling in his stomach, Gannicus knew what her next words would be.
"But we cannot. Not ever, Gannicus."
It was as he feared. "Why?" It was such a simple question, with no simple answer.
Melitta took a deep breath, her dream still so vivid upon brain it caused blood to run cold. "Because I am afraid," she admitted in a quivering, breathy voice unlike any he had ever heard from her. "Afraid if I do not hold you at a distance I will seek your embrace and, in the doing, betray a man who is underserved of such fate and bring us all to ruin." She placed her palm on the side of his face and he could feel her trembling. "Please, my will has become a weak thing where you are concerned." Her thumb stroked along his bottom lip, as if tasting him through touch, before getting to her feet.
"Melitta…" he said, panicked, heart racing as a sharp, piercing pain began to suffuse his chest. "Do not do this."
She shook her head and did the only thing she could think of to save them both. She threw herself upon his mercy. "I cannot do this. That is why I am asking you to be strong and let me go. For both our sakes."
He could not speak the words, he felt as if choking, throat swollen and raw, so he merely nodded his acquiesce.
"Gratitude," she whispered in a quavering voice. She gazed at him longingly for a moment that seemed to last forever before she turned and bolted for his door as if Pluto's minions were upon heels to drag her off to Tartarus to face the furies! The sound of her broken sobs followed her as she escaped his cell.
Gannicus watched her go, heart torn from chest and absenting itself from body along with her presence. Anguish began settling upon him and, in a fit, he threw the wine carafe against the wall with a violent shout of pain, enjoying the sound of it shattering, just like his heart. He flopped back on his bed and curled up in a fetal position, willing the misery that was spreading throughout his body to fucking go away…
*8*
The next morning, Gannicus was suffering from heartache and too much wine as he sparred with Gnaeus in the yard. The Dacian gladiator was improving with his net and trident and Gannicus often worked with him, helping him to further his skill with the weapon.
When Gnaeus finally managed to capture Gannicus within the net, the man howled in victory. "Yes! Fuck you! Gnaeus trap Gannicus!"
Gannicus tossed the cumbersome net off him, rolling his eyes at Gnaeus' enthusiasm. "Finally, you manage to catch more than my swords, brother," he said with a weak grin. He was hung over, heartbroken and out of sorts, not exactly in prime condition, but he let the man have his moment. When they began to spar again, Gannicus put him to ground quickly, and when he stood over the other gladiator, swords to his throat, he smirked. "Fuck you, Gannicus beat Gnaeus!" He said finding a modicum of amusement at Gnaeus' expression.
Removing his swords, Gannicus put a hand out to help Gnaeus to his feet. The shaven headed gladiator scowled at the offered hand for a moment before he laughed and accepted the gesture.
"Cunt!" The Dacian said once he'd regained his position.
"Cocksucker!" Gannicus returned with a grin, and they began to spar again, trading meaningless insults back and forth in jesting manner not meant to truly offend.
None of the men were training hard since Batiatus, Oenomaus and the other gladiators had yet to return from Nola, a thing Gannicus was most appreciative of considering his aching head. He steadfastly avoided glancing to the balcony, knowing if he set gaze on her his torment would begin anew. He would prefer that not happen. She had begged him to leave her be and he would heed her plea. He could not even be angry with her, she was trying to maintain her moral compass. He admired her for that, mayhap even envied her a bit, considering how difficult he found the task.
*8*
By mid-morning meal, Gannicus' head had stopped feeling as if it was going to pound its way off shoulders; unfortunately, his chest still ached, and he began to wonder if heart actually bore physical wound from being shattered. He sat down with the rest of the men to break his fast, but many of his brothers steered clear of him. He was in a mood and they knew it. As he ate, he was approached by the kitchen boy, Kleos.
"Good morning, Champion…uh…Gannicus," the boy said, a bright grin spreading across his face. "Congratulations on your victory over Negrimus. All the house speaks of it." He sighed. "If only I could have seen such a thing with my own eyes."
Pleased to have a distraction, Gannicus chuckled. "Gratitude, Kleos. The fucker was near impossible to kill."
"And yet you did so." The boy's chest swelled. "Someday, I hope to have epic battle such as yours."
"You are Celt, you will be mighty someday, Kleos, and the crowds will cheer your name as you stand upon the sands," Gannicus told the boy with a wink.
"You truly believe it so?" the boy asked, his heart in his brown eyes.
"I do," he said with a firm nod of his head.
Kleos would have said more, but the other kitchen slave called his name signaling for the boy to get back to work. Gannicus sent him on his way, unwilling to be the cause for the child to be punished.
Gannicus watched him skip away with a small smile. The boy had big dreams for one so small. With a sigh, he got up from his seat, threw his dishes in the tub set out for that purpose and went back to training, wondering how the boy would feel about being a gladiator if he knew the piss and shit one had to wade through to be a champion? Would he still desire such a thing? Probably, Gannicus thought. He did.
*8*
So, I wanted to thank people personally and answer some of the comments made.
ladyebug: thank you for your review. It means a lot.
DaniElias and toyshellme: thank you for your reviews. If Octavia is driving you crazy, or you hate her, then she is coming across as I had hoped. :) She is not supposed to be liked, although I am trying to give her layers of depth, and not simply portray her as a one-dimensional villain-type. She is off to Rome presently, yet she will be back when Gannicus arrives in Rome.
Sheshe073: What a compliment, thank you. :)
Ganniluvr: I want to thank you ab imo pectore (from deepest chest aka bottom of my heart!). Your reviews made my day.
MLBmama: Thank you for your kind reviews. I did not care for Diona's fate either, which is why I changed it. :) I am thankful you appreciate it, as well as the relationship between Gannicus and her.
Danielle: Thank you for your review. I will have Gannicus and Melitta together, but I am trying very hard to accurately portray them in character. Melitta tried avoiding Gannicus throughout most of Gods, so I am continuing that in this story. Also, since Crixus will NOT be defeating Gannicus in this story and he will not be sold to Tullius, I do not feel Melitta's hand would be forced so quickly. I promise eventually, there will be interaction between them again, ut I hope you enjoy the journey to that place.
Jen: I am honored you are enjoying this so much. I am a huge fan of your stories, so to have you review mine made my day, month and year! :) Your insights are always welcome. I agree, fans of the show seem to forget or refuse to acknowledge the significance of Melitta not choosing Oenomaus as her husband. In my opinion, it would not have been mentioned in the show if it had no hidden meaning. Although, to be fair, in Vengeance, Gannicus downplayed Melitta's feelings for him, so I can understand people downplaying them as well. Thank you so much for your review. I hope you enjoy the twisting road this story is on, there is still much more to tell. :)
Thank you again to all of you who left a comment and to those who do not review as well. I appreciate every reader.
TJ