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 34: salva veritate: With truth in tact

Diona and Naevia were in the tiny room they shared within the slave quarters. Diona was sharing what had taken place earlier when Melitta had interrupted her visit with Gannicus.

"She was jealous!" Diona said, anger at Melitta evident from the expression on her pretty face. "He loves her, yet she breaks his heart causing him to fall into drink, and then, when he tries to move on, she lures him back." Diona flounced down upon her cot. She placed her pillow (a gift from Gannicus) behind her back. "She does not want him, but she does not want another to have him either!"

Naevia did not see Melitta plotting in such a manner and said so. "Perhaps she is just as confused as he by her feelings, Diona," she said, taking her friend's hand. "She is married. Do you truly believe developing feelings for husband's dearest friend would not be troubling for her?"

"No," Diona sighed. She knew Melitta cared for him. She just hated the effect Melitta had on him at times. "I suppose you have point."

"You love him and wish to see him happy." Naevia bit her lip, debating breaking honest words with Diona, who stood as sister more than friend. "I worry for you," she finally admitted.

"Worry for me? Why?"

"Because I believe he is going to break tender heart and I do not wish to see you go through such pain."

Diona hugged Naevia. "I have had similar thoughts," she confided. "But I would not change course. Gannicus brings me happiness and, in this ludus, that is fleeting thing at best."

Naevia had to admit her words were true, yet she was still troubled. "But he uses you for pleasure only, Diona. I know you find joy in his embrace, but is reward worth the risk?"

Diona chuckled. "He has only taken me to his bed on one occasion since requesting me, Naevia."

Naevia's jaw dropped at that information. Gannicus' reputation with the women of the ludus was infamous. He obviously enjoyed pleasures of the flesh and never denied himself. "You jest," Naevia said, thinking Diona sought to protect the man.

Diona shook her head. "I do not. He worries over hurting my heart, so he does not fuck me. We drink wine and play Tali when I am with him. That is all," the green-eyed slave informed, grinning at her innocent sister slave's look of utter shock.

"Then he must truly care for you," Naevia said in wonder.

"He does," Diona confirmed. "Do not doubt he bears warm regards for me." She waved a hand at her new pillow, the new fur upon her bed as well as the scented oils and soaps she now possessed. "He takes care of me and seeks to see my lot improved. I cannot find fault in such a thing."

"I suppose not," Naevia admitted. Gannicus did give Diona many extra comforts.

Diona gave a sad little smile. "He just does not return sentiment I have for him. My feelings are of a deeper nature. I know this and have accepted it," she told Naevia, chin lifting as if daring Naevia to tell her she was wrong in feeling as she did.

Naevia did not wish to argue Diona's loyalty. Instead she asked, "What of his heart? Is he truly set on Melitta then, despite the troubled circumstance in such a match?"

"He is," Diona replied with a sigh. "I may not have his heart, but what he does offer is companionship, improved living quarters and his protection," she said, extolling the virtues of her relationship with Batiatus' champion. "All of which bring me joy and comfort, as well as a sense of security sadly lacking before Gannicus claimed me as his own."

A small frown marred Naevia's brow as she asked, "Is that enough?"

"It is more than I ever expected," Diona replied, "especially after Domina turned me into fucking whore."

"A thing you no longer stand as."

"Because of Gannicus, Naevia."

A small smiled curled Naevia's lush lips. "Then I will embrace your friendship with the man and greet it with the joy you feel."

"Gratitude," Diona said. "It will be far more pleasant to share secrets with you without you wearing disapproving scowl."

Naevia giggled. "Apologies. I was merely worried for you."

"None required. In this I do but jest," she teased. "I know you were concerned. See mind eased, Naevia. Worry for Gannicus. You may be correct and Melitta may not intentionally wound, yet intentional or not, results are the same; she rips his heart out every time she visits. I expect tomorrow I will once again be faced with a drunken, heartbroken Gannicus intent on destruction of self."

Naevia rolled her eyes. "One that you'll offer shoulder to weep upon, I am sure."

Diona grinned. "I would offer more than shoulder if he would but accept."

Naevia gasped. "Diona!"

"What?" Diona replied, unrepentant. She had no illusions regarding Gannicus' heart, but she would not deny herself the pleasure of his body should he offer. "He makes body sing in ways I cannot even begin to explain to you, Naevia. But, mark words, one day you will meet a man that makes your breath catch and your body feel as if it is on fire. Then you will understand desire to experience such a thing again and again, despite risk involved."

Naevia shook her head. She hoped not, but even as she denied the sentiment a face came to mind. It was the handsome face of Crixus, and she could not help but wonder, what would she risk to discover if he made her body sing as Diona described?

Diona bumped her shoulder with her own. "I see you are already giving it thought. Crixus perhaps?" she asked, giggling.

Naevia's face flamed. "Hold tongue! I never said that."

"You did not have to, you have Crixus face!"

"I have no such face. Stop saying that!"

"Crixus face! Yes. That is what it is." Diona paused, and a wicked expression came upon face. "Have you had a dirty dream about him yet?"

"Diona, you are incorrigible!" Naevia cried, face blazing hot with embarrassment.

"You have!" Diona leaned in. "Tell me yours and I will tell you mine about Gannicus…"

*8*

Gannicus' Quarters:

Sitting at his table, sipping wine with Batiatus, Gannicus listened intently as the man described the enthusiasm of the Roman audience of the Circus Maximus, and how they routinely asked for their favored gladiators to receive their freedom.

"Oenomaus mentioned such a thing to me previously."

Batiatus frowned. "He did?" The lanista was not pleased his Doctore was speaking to his champion about winning freedom from this ludus. "What prompted such conversation?"

"We were discussing his match with Theokoles and he mentioned how the Roman crowd often offered freedom to favored gladiators. He was spared due to their generosity."

Batiatus nodded, relieved Oenomaus was not planting ideas in Gannicus' head. "He was. Had Oenomaus beaten Theokoles, I have no doubt he would have been granted his freedom that day. I am of a like mind regarding you."

"You believe I will be offered my freedom in Rome?"

"I do," Batiatus admitted. "Look at the way you inflame the crowd here in Capua. I have no doubt you will do the same in Rome."

"And yet, the people of Capua have never been so inspired as to offer me my freedom," Gannicus replied with a self-depreciating smirk.

Quintus chuckled. "Perhaps Capua's citizens are more selfish regarding their champions. Rome's are not. They awarded four gladiators their freedom in the last year alone."

That surprised Gannicus and his eyes widened. "Truly?"

Batiatus nodded in answer.

Gannicus took a sip of his wine as he pondered the new information. If what Batiatus was telling him was true, then… "Why do you desire I travel to Rome, if you believe I could be freed?"

"I would not see your path to immortality blocked by possible circumstance, Gannicus. You deserve opportunity, just as this House deserves the accolades your victories have and will continue to bring. The greatest of which are yet to come."

"Then earning the rudis sword is truly a possibility for me?" Gannicus asked quietly, his excitement climbing at the mere thought of receiving the legendary symbol of freedom.

"The infamous Flamma was awarded the rudis on four separate occasions!"

Gannicus' jaw dropped in shock. "Four fucking times!" He exclaimed. "Why did the man not take his freedom and walk away?"

"He is a gladiator. Surely you understand the love for the arena?"

A smile transformed Gannicus' face. The arena was the one place he felt alive and happy; he suddenly found it easy to relate with this Flamma.

"Ah, I see you do understand," Batiatus crowed and Gannicus nodded in the affirmative. "After your storied battle with Negrimus, you are the toast of fucking Capua! It will be tenfold at the Circus Maximus. If the public demands it, the Editor will grant you the rudis and you would be a free man." Gannicus' face must have given away his emotions because Quintus paused, and his smile was a bit brittle as he said, "I can see the thought causes exhilaration."

"Is it wrong to find the idea pleasurable?"

"No. Receiving the rudis is the highest honor a gladiator can achieve. It is a circumstance I must prepare for considering your popularity. Which brings me to topic I wish to broach. What would you do if you are freed?"

"Truly, Dominus, I have never given the idea any thought."

"Then let us give it consideration," Batiatus said, putting another aspect of his plan into play. "If you received your freedom, would you leave this ludus and everyone within its walls behind?"

Gannicus instantly knew Batiatus meant Melitta. His heart seized within his chest at the very idea of never seeing her again. And what of Kleos? He just realized the boy was his. He could not leave him behind. Batiatus was waiting for answer. Gannicus chose his words wisely.

"Freedom is a notion to warm the heart for certain, but the idea of leaving…" The gladiator shook his head, thinking of loved ones left behind. "I cannot say I would favor that either."

"Nor would I," Batiatus admitted. "To lose my champion prematurely before full potential was achieved…" He shrugged. "It is not a thought I relish, I can tell you that."

Gannicus did not know what the man wanted him to say, so he remained silent.

"I understand it is difficult decision, Gannicus, but so was my decision to release Melitta of all culpability. You asked me for a boon and I gave it without thought, but I must exact some price for tonight's debacle. You agree, do you not?"

"Yes, Dominus," Gannicus said. He had expected punishment. He only hoped it would not be something too severe. However, even if it were the lash, he would welcome it if meant Melitta was safe. "And, I am willing to accept whatever you deem adequate sentence for my offenses, but what does that have to do with Rome and the rudis?"

"My proposal is this, in exchange for Melitta receiving naught in the way of punishment, I ask that you remain the Champion for the House of Batiatus, continuing to fight for this house if you receive the rudis and freedom."

Gannicus' stomach twisted, and sickening dread filled him. Was the man truly asking him to make a choice between freedom from the bonds of slavery and Melitta's safety? The cruelty of the offer blindsided Gannicus. Batiatus had acted so humanely in recent months, he had forgotten how selfish the man could be. What fucking choice did he have? Save Melita and lose his chance of freedom or allow the woman he loved to be punished in an unknown manner. The gladiator's handsome face bore the agony of his conflicted feelings.

"You ask me to give up earning my freedom?"

Quintus had considered that possibility but dismissed it believing Gannicus would flat out refuse such request. Judging Gannicus' expression, the gladiator still might refuse. Batiatus sought to soothe his man. "Ah! Do you make me a fucking monster?!" he exclaimed. "Strike such thoughts from mind," Batiatus said. "I do not expect you to remain a slave, Gannicus. I ask you to fight as free man, and during that time, I would seek your help training another, perhaps Crixus, to assume mantle of Champion when you no longer desire to face life and death upon the sands."

Instantly Gannicus felt an intense wave of relief sweep over him. He would not have to sign away any chance of freedom this night! He felt guilty for believing Batiatus would do such a thing to him. "Apologies Dominus," he said.

Quintus waved it off. "None required. An understandable mistake. What I would offer in exchange is the chance to have a life with Melitta after your days of glory have passed."

"In what manner could you give such a thing?"

Batiatus initiated the final part of his plan. "As a free man you would earn one third the purse rather than one fifth. With the added coin, you could save enough to purchase Melitta's papers and buy her freedom." He shrugged. "When you retire, you and she would both be free to leave the ludus and make a life for yourself wherever you choose."

If Gannicus had not been sitting, he would have fallen in shock. "Dominus do not break these words if you are jesting. It would be too fucking cruel."

"I offer no jest, Gannicus."

Gannicus' mind spun. He could purchase her freedom. And, perhaps his son's freedom as well. "I have no words…" And he did not. Never would he have believed it possible.

Batiatus smiled. He had him now. "What say you, brave Gannicus? Is this acceptable offer?"

He did not have to think long or hard about it. Never had he imagined Batiatus would grant him such hope. However, he also had no doubts that if he were to reject Batiatus' offer, Melitta would pay steep price. That was not a thing he would risk. "It is more than acceptable." He paused and then asked, "And this bargain is to be my punishment?"

His punishment appeared more reward, so he had to ask.

"I would not view it as punishment. Consider lack of punishment and hope for brighter future an incentive to accept bargain and allow trespasses to fade from memory."

Gannicus nodded his head. "Then I would gladly accept offer. Gratitude, Dominus," Gannicus said, raising his glass and saluting Batiatus. "To the House of Batiatus and future triumphs!"

"I'll fucking drink to that," Quintus said, and downed his wine.

Gannicus drained his glass too and set his cup aside. "I give my word. I will fight for you, Dominus and see this house to prominence once again."

Batiatus' smile was wide. He had achieved his purpose this night; Gannicus' loyalty. "I can ask for nothing more," he said. A moment later, he rose from the table and yawned, exhausted now that his long-term goals were within grasp. "I would fall to bed. I suggest you do the same, we are to town tomorrow, early."

Gannicus rose too. "I will be ready. Gratitude Dominus," he said. "You give opportunity beyond measure. I will see you are not disappointed in the giving."

"Just fucking win in Rome, Gannicus." Batiatus said with a smile. "You have arisen from the ashes of this great house. Keep ascending the way you have, and we will rise to the Heavens above…to the very halls of Olympus itself!"

Caught up in the rush of possible freedom, a life with Melitta and a chance to remove his son from a life as slave. It excited him beyond measure, and Gannicus' enthusiasm finally reached Batiatus' level as he added, "Where we will kick down the doors, tip drink and fight and fuck like Gods, not men!"

Batiatus laughed at his gladiator's ardency. It was working out just as he had hoped. He laid a hand on Gannicus' shoulder. "Like fucking Titans!" the lanista said with a grin. He patted Gannicus on the back before making his way to the door. "Ah. It is late. I will take my leave." He paused at the door where the guard was waiting. "Oh, and Gannicus?" The blonde gladiator turned, giving Batiatus his attention. "Dress in your finest street clothes tomorrow. Let your public feast their eyes on Gannicus, the gladiator who makes the girls swoon!"

Gannicus flashed his charming grin. "They will moisten at the sight of me."

Batiatus chuckled. "They always do," he said drolly, and exited Gannicus' quarters.

It was only after Batiatus left that the enormity of tonight's events hit the him. Gannicus collapsed into his chair, numb. What a fucking night! Now that he and Melitta had finally given in to the passion between them, would she avoid him as before? 'She should,' he thought, recalling how hot and wild their lust burned earlier. Having succumbed to it, Gannicus was unsure he could stop himself any longer. Fuck! He had wanted her again immediately afterward; it might be best to avoid temptation until he did not have to. And that led him to Batiatus' offer. It burned in brain. Could he truly do such a thing to Oenomaus? Yes. It pained him to admit, but tonight had made one thing clear, he loved Melitta more than he loved the bond of brotherhood he and Oenomaus shared. He had not wanted to love her, had fought it tooth and nail, but the feelings overwhelmed him and now it was beyond his control. If a life with her was at all possible, he wanted to grab it with both hands and run.

*8*

The next day, Gannicus awoke feeling more relaxed than he had in months. He had finally broken and had given in to his love for Melitta. Being with her thrilled him, yet now, he bore a weight of guilt upon shoulders for that interlude as well. He had willingly betrayed Oenomaus. Taking Melitta had not been an act forced upon him this time. No. He had made choice, now he would be forced to live with that decision. Due to his guilt of loving Melitta, he and Oenomaus were no longer as close, yet he still loved and respected the man. How could he face him after actions of last night?

Gannicus had never considered himself a "good" man. His past actions with women had distorted his view of his honor, but he had not believed himself to be a man that would stab a brother in the back and fuck his wife, either! Apparently, he was, and it concerned him that he would do so again if presented with opportunity to have a life with Melitta. He detested the conflict he felt between what his heart wanted and what his brain told him was the honorable thing. They did not coincide, and it was a conundrum he did not see his way clear of unless he could win his freedom. Then, and only then, could he remove himself, and hopefully Melitta too, from the quagmire of deception they had fallen into. Perhaps, once he was away from this place, he would be able to forgive himself for breaking the heart of a man he still loved dearly, just not as dearly as he loved the man's wife.

With a sigh, Gannicus exited his cell to break his fast before he bathed and had himself prepared for his trip into Capua. Less than an hour later, he had returned from the bathing chamber when Diona arrived at his cell to help make him presentable for the trip to town; Batiatus wanted his champion to be pleasing to the eyes of his public. She carried with her a small clay container of oil that had a golden cast to it and a basket full of hair ribbons.

After she had oiled his upper body, giving it a perfect golden sheen, she offered to help him with his hair as well. They sat on his bed, with him sitting on the edge of the bed, his feet on the floor while Diona was sitting cross legged behind him, intertwining the gold ribbons she had in her lap with his hair before braiding them together.

"What did Melitta want last night?" Diona asked, a bit too casually.

He had wondered how long it would take for her to broach subject. He sighed. "She came to hurl accusations," he admitted.

"About what?"

"Using you for my own selfish desires."

Diona frowned. Considering it was Melitta herself who disclosed his tormented past, it seemed cruel for her to make such an accusation. "But you do not do that. Why would she say such a thing?"

Gannicus sighed. "As you well know, Diona, I have not always acted in the most honorable of ways. Melitta knows of my past better than most."

Diona peered around his shoulder to get a look at his face. Did he truly not see what had motivated Melitta's visit? "She was jealous," she told him. "I have told you she returns your feelings in kind. Have I not?"

Gannicus wanted to change subject, but Diona always seemed to know when he was deflecting. "You have," he agreed, but did not elaborate further.

Normally he would offer teasing remarks or jests. That he did not was surprising. "Did you argue or have words that upset her?" she asked, looking for a dark ribbon to tie the end of his braid with.

He shrugged, not at all comfortable with the direction the conversation was taking. "Why?"

"Because she has been in a mood all morning and Naevia said she was crying in her bed earlier."

Gannicus turned away, unable to meet her curious gaze. It pained heart to know Melitta was suffering from decisions made. He also knew she was still worried over him since he had not yet had opportunity to break words and assure her he was fine.

"Gannicus?" she prompted. "Did something happen last night?"

Gannicus had no desire to tell Diona the truth. He had a feeling the girl would not take it well.

His expression, as well as his silence said it all, and Diona gasped as she realized what must have transpired after she left the night previously. "You fucked her!" She shook her head, the ribbon forgotten in her hand. "But you said you could not be with another because of the Roman."

He could see the hurt and confusion on her pretty face. "Diona…"

"Apologies," she mumbled, head down. She practically sprung from the bed. "I must return to the villa," she said, refusing to look at him. "Naevia needs my help with the Dominus before you are to town."

Gannicus could see the tears streaking down her cheeks. "Diona, wait," he called, but she rushed out of his cell as if demons from the underworld were after her.

He put his head in his hands. "Fuck!" He was a prick! His intent had not been to bruise her tender heart, and yet, he had done so effortlessly.

It seemed he was constantly injuring her feelings, and then asking forgiveness afterwards. He sighed, wishing he had time to find her and make things between them right, but he did not. Batiatus would be expecting him to be ready soon. He picked up the ribbons she had abandoned and used one to secure the braid she had completed yet left untied. He dressed quickly in a pair of black barbarian pants, a black and brown tunic that opened down the front and exposed his smooth, hard-muscled chest. He placed the necklace with the lion's claw around his neck, and golden arm bands around each bicep, but left off the leather bracelets; due to him being an ass, he did not have the help needed to tie the damned things. As he stood in front of his mirror, he suddenly recalled his and Melitta's reflections in the glass last night. The image was so vibrant, he could easily picture it, as if it were still present. He felt his cock start to swell and forcibly banished the image from mind. With a muttered curse, he turned away from the mirror and exited his cell.

*8*

Lucretia and Gaia accompanied Batiatus and Gannicus to town as did their body slaves. Barca was also there as a body guard for Quintus. Gannicus would have sufficed, but he was far too valuable to lose in a street fight. There were also two guards with them to keep Gannicus's eager fans at bay while they made their way through the market place.

As the group weaved their way through the dusty, dirty streets of the city towards the armorers, they were starting to gain the notice of the people of Capua. As requested, Gannicus was dressed to attract attention, and his name was heard whispered amongst the crowd. It was not long before someone pointed to him and yelled his name. In moments, they were surrounded. Men, women and children alike swarmed upon them, all eager to catch a glimpse of the Champion of Capua.

As they paused for Gannicus to let his fans close to him, a young citizen, a beautiful girl with flowing dark hair and eyes blue as the sky broke through the guards trying to keep the public back. "Gannicus! I love you!" she cried and leapt at him, trying to kiss him.

Gannicus caught her slender form easily, yet he held her at arms-length. The girl was but a babe. The first question to mind popped from mouth. "What is your age?"

"I have reached my fourteenth year." She raised her chin stubbornly. "Old enough to be your wife," she declared with an overconfidence that bespoke being spoiled at home.

'Not my fucking wife' was his first thought. Romans may marry off their daughters at such a tender age, but Gannicus had no interest in little girls. Yet he did not say that aloud. It would bruise the girl's innocent spirit. He had done enough of that earlier with Diona. Just then, he noticed a hulking brute of a man maneuvering his way through the crowd, glaring right at him and he quickly deduced the beast was the girl's father. Gannicus pitied the man that tried to touch this young thing.

The guards went to take the girl, but Gannicus shook his head at them as he put the girl on her feet and took her chin in hand. "You may be ready to assume mantle of wife, yet you are still a young flower, untouched. Yes?"

Her eyes widened, and she flushed red, but gave a small nod. At the same time, the lumbering giant growled as he moved through the crowd, cutting through the mass of bodies like a knife through water in his haste to get to the center where Gannicus was with his daughter.

"A word of advice, young flower," he told the girl gently, "first, stay away from men of my kind. We will offer sweet words, but nothing more." And then he remembered something he had often heard Melitta say to the girls over the years and tried to recreate it to this child. "And do not rush having your flower plucked so readily. It may be an exciting thing to imagine but hastening the moment will only result in bruising your petals. When your time is right. You will know it."

"But I want my flower plucked by you," she said softly.

A slow grin curled his lips, he could not help it, and Gannicus almost quipped for the girl to come see him in a few years, but with her father standing right there…he thought better of it. Instead he said, "An honor I would cherish, yet am undeserving of. Save such a gift for the man that can give you not only his body, but his heart as well." His eyes shot to Melitta who was staring at him with something very close to wide eyed wonder. He lowered his head and whispered just for the girl alone. "Mine is spoken for, sweet flower."

The young girl nodded in understanding and smiled sweetly. "She is a lucky woman."

He grinned. "Mayhap you could explain that to her because she does not seem to think so."

The girl giggled and the angry father, having finally broken through the thick mass of people paused, his eyes widening in surprise as he realized Gannicus had gently rebuffed his daughter's outrageous offer, moreover, his headstrong daughter accepted rejection without nary a tantrum. A look of gratitude suffused his brutish features before he heaved a sigh and called to his stubborn child. "Helena," he snapped, causing the girl to gasp and turn to face her angry father. "I think you have taken up enough of our Champion's time for the day. Perhaps some of these other good people might wish to break words with the man as well." He glanced to Gannicus again and smiled. "Gratitude Champion. You honor this city as well as my family this day."

Gannicus nodded and leaned down to brush a soft kiss on Helena's cheek. "I cannot accept your gracious offer, but I thank you for making this day one I will not soon forget," he said with a wink.

The girl placed her hand over her cheek and blushed, her eyes lingering on the beautiful blonde gladiator for a moment longer before she turned and made her way back to her irate, yet indulging father. Gannicus watched the man practically tear hair from skull as he chastised the girl, yet he never raised hand to her.

He chuckled as he thought, 'That beautiful minx would lead some fool on a merry chase one day and he was glad it was not to be him!'

Indeed, he was already on a merry chase where a woman was concerned, and his attention landed upon Melitta again. She had avoided his eyes the entire trip to town, yet to his surprise, she did not turn away presently. Instead, she met his gaze evenly, eyes sparkling as she bestowed upon him a wide and incredibly bright smile. Gannicus felt his breath catch and paused for a moment to appreciate her radiant beauty. An answering grin suffused his own face when he realized she was proud of him. His heart lifted and (for the first time in quite some time) Gannicus was proud of himself too.

The crowd clamored forward, cheering Gannicus and his gentle handling of one of their own young doves. What could have turned into an ugly fight with the girl's father had evolved instead into a helpful instruction for her to choose her desires more wisely.

The public was most pleased with their Champion.

As was Batiatus. "That was a shrewd fucking maneuver, if I ever saw one," he told his gladiator, admiration for Gannicus' savvy handling of a potentially volatile situation obvious. "Do not rush having your flower plucked," Batiatus repeated, chuckling. "It was perfect thing to say, and the public loves you all the more for it." He placed his hand on Gannicus' shoulder. "The manner in which you gain the crowd's adoration…" Batiatus shook his head, truly amazed. "I've never seen the like," he said as they began to walk again. "The people love you, Gannicus. I hope you are prepared for true fame and fucking glory, because once the citizens of Rome feast their eyes upon you, the capital is going to spread moistened thighs to welcome you and worship you. Mark words."

Gannicus chuckled. "A prospect I am looking forward to, Dominus." He winked roguishly. "I am especially warmed by vision of moistened thighs parting."

"I can fucking imagine," Quintus said with a roll of his eyes for his champion's cheeky reply.

After the spectacle with the girl—who was probably a celebrity within the city by now—was over and they had left the crowds behind, Lucretia and Gaia decided they would rather spend the rest of their day shopping in the forums that sold some of the more luxurious items such as jewelry, imported fabrics, scented oils and bath salts, rather than tagging along with Batiatus and his walking public attraction.

The two women put their heads together, plotting how to get Quintus to agree. As usual, they ganged up on him in the planning, but it was Lucretia who went to him to ask for the coin necessary.

Batiatus saw her coming and smirked. "How much do you need?" he asked, already knowing where her mind was set.

"A hundred denarii should do," she said with a smile.

Thanks to Octavia, Quintus had that and then some. He gave her two hundred and told her to enjoy herself.

"You bless me," said told him.

"As often as I can," he returned with an answering smile.

After procuring the needed coin from Quintus, Gaia and Lucretia turned and began walking down the crowded street in the other direction, followed by Gaia's slave, Ivana and Melitta.

Batiatus and his party continued down the market's busy thoroughfare towards the armorer's shop.

As they maneuvered their way through the foot traffic, Gannicus stole a quick look over his shoulder for one last glimpse of Melitta and found her watching him as well. Their gazes locked and held. Gannicus felt his heart take flight within his chest as a roaring sound filled his ears. Desire, the likes of which he had only experienced with her, raced through his blood and he swallowed thickly as she continued to glance back at him with answering hunger.

They both tarried, footsteps slowing as they continued to stare at one another. How long they would have stayed like that was unknown as the spell was finally broken when Lucretia called Melitta's name and she was forced to look away to attend her Domina.

He had no chance to mourn the loss, however, because due to his slow pace, people started to recognize him again, and he was quickly surrounded with fans once more. Men patted him on the back or shook his hand, wishing him well in his contest at the Apollinares. At one point, Gannicus' heart ached when two little boys, approximately the same age as Kleos asked to shake his hand after telling him they wanted to be a gladiator just like him. Gannicus got down on one knee and shook both their hands, telling the boys when they were ready to begin training, to come see him. They both nodded excitedly and clamored back to their mother's sides in awe of their hero. The meeting sat with him for some time before he pushed it from thought.

And then of course, there were the girls and women who called his name, showing him their 'wares'. Gannicus ate all of it up with gleeful charm and the public idolized him for it, fulfilling a desire within him. It was a happy time for the champion, despite his internal struggles.

*8*

A/N: Ok, oh wow guys! I am so excited about the response this story is getting. I want to take a moment and respond to everyone who has reviewed, commented or left feedback. Constructive criticism is not frowned upon you guys. I appreciate it because I want to know if I am reaching the audience in the manner that I desire.

Jenna: You're in depth reviews and feedback truly inspire my muse! Through your comments, I have been able to discover if my intentions are reaching the reader as I hoped. Bless you for such articulate and, chapter by chapter critiques. I admire your work so much, so to have you give me a (blow by blow) commentary of my chapter is a real honor. PS: You had me giggling regarding the drunken hookup and ugly backseat sex! ;) ha-ha-ha-ha-ha!

MLBmama1977: You are another who lets me know how my words affect the reader chapter by chapter. Gratitude. Letting me know I inspire your emotions spark my muse. I am thankful you appreciate Diona and Gannicus. I like their relationship as well. He needs a feminine aspect to let him know when he is being over cocky, ;) and since Melitta is dealing with her own troubled emotions regarding him, she cannot do that. Diona has filled that spot for him. I am pleased you understand and admire it. Gratitude.

toyshellme: I'm so happy you appreciate Gannicus and Kleos. I worried people might think it ridiculous that Gannicus would try and have conversations with a child. I think they are adorable, but then again, it is my story. :) Thank you for your support and feedback.

Sheshe073: Mistress of the Manuscript? Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha! I loved that! Bless you. You are far too kind, but I do appreciate your amazing reviews and feedback. I understand it is difficult watching the triangle between Gannicus/Melitta/Oenomaus, however, I hope I am conveying the characters difficulty here. People are flawed and Gannicus is a flawed character. That is one of the reasons I love him so much. Thank you for the honest feedback, I need it to let me know if my words are reaching you guys. :)

Vikinggoddss: Wow! I have not seen you on this site in a long time, my friend. Bless you for taking the time to leave a comment. I truly appreciate it. :)

Ganniluvr: You are such an inspiration to my muse! Your never-ending support of this story helps me to keep my muse motivated and on path. Gratitude.

ainthe: Thank you for the kind feedback. What a compliment. Thank you. And, I do plan on adding Gannicus' backstory. I have done a ton of research regarding Celtic tribes of the Roman era. I imagine Gannicus coming from either Britania (British) or Goidelic (Irish or Scottish). I am leaning towards Britania since Dustin Clare is actually Australian and the country originated (at least as far as British invasion) as a prison colony for England.

sparro: Thank you for your words of inspiration. I appreciate each and every review. It inspires my muse. Gratitude.

Lizzi: Constructive criticism is appreciated as well. Yes, this story is Gannicus/Melitta centric, but I did post warnings saying there were going to be other pairing with our favorite gladiator as well. I hope that has not scared you off, but I do appreciate your honest comments. It lets me know how the reader is responding.

Ok. Thank you again, all of you. If you are in the good old USA… Happy 4th! :)