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.
A/N: Thank you to all of you who continuously leave me your wonderful comments and reviews (especially those of you who review each and every chapter!), your feedback inspires my muse and allows me to get a feel for how my words are coming across in the story. Gratitude. :) I would very much like to hear comments on this chapter because I struggled mightily with it. In fact, I am still not altogether happy with it, but after several rewrites, I finally had to post it as is and let you readers decide if I have conveyed myself and the character's intent in my words. We shall see. I must admit to being nervous. :l
*8*
Chapter 50: si peccavi negamus fallimur et nulla est in nobis veritas: If we deny having sinned, we are deceived, and there's no truth in us.
Batiatus Ludus:
The villa was eerily quiet. It was still a couple of hours before dawn and Melitta was in her small room. A single candle burned, giving off a dim light that cast shadows upon the walls of her quarters as she knelt beside the bowl of water and bathed his scent from her flesh; a small sob caught in her throat as she did so. The scene was terribly similar to the one four months ago after they had lay together for Varis, except this time, Melitta cried because she did not wish to have his touch removed. She wanted to leave the reminder of their lovemaking upon her body, but she could not. She would be visiting Oenomaus to say goodbye; it would be disastrous to do so carrying the scent of another man.
The idea caused her cheeks to flame. Like Venus, drawn into the passionate embrace of Mars, Melitta had fallen from grace indeed. She should feel remorse for her actions, her reasoning was well aware that loving Gannicus was not morally right, but she could not find it within either her heart nor mind to regret her time within his arms. She was terribly in love with him and her need for him was a physical ache that never went away. It may be a sin, but Melitta no longer denied her feelings for him and she was too tired of fighting them as well. She had been a slave since she was a child and had never questioned her master's will, but she did now. Titus had made decision to give her to Oenomaus. Melitta loved her husband but she was no longer certain she was in love with her husband. He was a good man who did not deserve betrayal; but did she not deserve happiness and joy as well? Did Gannicus not deserve her heart when it belonged to him? For the first time ever, Melitta wanted to give her love to a man of her own choosing. Not because Dominus decided he was worthy of her, but because she did. Gannicus once made mention of the lack of freedom and choice they had as slaves, and that was true, to an extent, however, Melitta was of a mind to have the freedom to love whomever she desired.
She needed to speak with Oenomaus.
He was still asleep when Melitta arrived at his cell. She entered quietly and sat upon the edge of his bed. Her heart ached because she knew what she told him this day would hurt him, but she could no longer deny there was difficulties between them. Her behavior of late was suspicious to say the least; her husband was many things, foolish and blind were not among his traits.
As if he sensed her presence, Oenomaus blinked open his eyes. His entire body tensed, and Melitta cried out when he nearly struck her in the darkened room until he recognized her voice at the last moment.
"Apologies," he said, lowering his hand. "I had expected you earlier, when you did not arrive…" He shrugged. "You surprised sitting here in the dark," he explained, rubbing the back of his neck.
"It is I who should apologize," she told him. "I neglected to visit for proper goodbye."
He sighed. "I know you are struggling Melitta. I wish you would share burden and ease mind."
"I long to, but do not favor the pain found within my thoughts."
"I would suffer whatever necessary if it helped to solve your dilemma. You know this."
Melitta took a deep breath before confessing part of her truth. "I have been unhappy, Oenomaus," she admitted softly.
"Why?" he asked frowning. "What brings such sorrow?"
"A circumstance beyond your control," she replied. "It causes distress."
His brows shot up sharply. "How long have you felt this way?"
She shrugged. "Recent events have found their way into brain. They have taken root and now grow like weed."
"What events have you so troubled?"
"I cannot explain. Domina has forbade it. I have prayed for guidance, but the Gods have not offered solution. I am asking you for time to sort my thoughts and feelings."
Oenomaus turned and took her hand in both of his. "Melitta," he said, rubbing his thumb along the top of her hand, her skin still silky-smooth despite being a slave. "I once asked you if you no longer loved me. Do you recall the conversation?"
"I do," she confirmed, swallowing hard because she knew where this was going.
"Your words then disabused me of such a notion. Have your feelings changed?"
Melitta did not know how to answer. She did still love Oenomaus. The emotions had not simply gone away because of her feelings for Gannicus, moreover, she could not say her feelings might not change again.
"I still love you, Oenomaus," she said finally because it was the truth. "That has not changed." She placed her palm on his cheek. "You are a good man. More than I deserve," she said, biting her lip before forcing herself to go on. "But it would be a lie if I said I am not discontented."
"In what manner, Melitta? Please explain, so that I can help fix whatever troubles you."
"There are some things you cannot fix, Oenomaus."
Her words took him aback. "Do you wish to cast me aside?"
Melitta swallowed thickly. Her heart hammered in her chest as she sought to answer his question. In the end, her courage failed, and she could not speak the words that might offer her freedom. "Please. I have no answers presently," she told him instead, "only more worries. And I know it is unfair to ask it of you, but I beg you to concede to my request. I know the Gods shall answer my prayers. I simply need more time."
He nodded but his expression clearly showed his growing concern. "I would face the Gods themselves if it would remove the pain I see in your eyes. You know this, do you not?"
"I do," she admitted softly, tears welling up in her lustrous eyes.
Her tears broke his heart and he pulled her to him and hugged her. "I will not deny a desire to press you for answers, but I am well aware the truth becomes evasive when hunted." He pulled back and cupped her face in his hands. "When you return from Rome, I will be here. We shall have discussion then. Yes?"
He was giving her time but with an expiry date placed upon his patience. Melitta nodded. She did not fault him. He had a right to put a time limit on how long he would wait for her to sort out her feelings.
"When I return from Rome," she agreed.
He pulled her into his arms and fell backwards onto the bed and Melitta allowed herself to be dragged down with him. His embrace was once her safe haven. She was saddened it no longer stood as such, but she could not deny a certain amount of comfort in the familiar feel of his strong arms wrapped around her, holding her close, so she curled up at his side, laying her head on his chest.
When he began to kiss her, she returned his kisses, not wanting to cause him further pain. And when his eager hands roaming her body hungrily, Melitta did not pull away; he was her husband and she could not deny him his desires. However, when Oenomaus tried to remove her robes, she could not prevent her reaction, and Melitta cringed, withdrawing from him, her expression pained.
He noticed her reaction immediately and his roving hands paused in their pursuit of her flesh. "What is wrong?" Oenomaus asked, concern etched heavily upon his brow. "You say you still love me and yet you cannot abide my touch."
"Apologies," she murmured. "I am unwell. It is my woman's time." The lie fell from her lips before it had truly formed in thought. Guilt soon followed but there was naught she could do. She simply could not lay with her husband after sharing Gannicus' bed. It made her stomach roil with illness.
Disappointment made its way across the proud Doctore's face but his care for her health won out over his own desires and Melitta hated herself more than a bit when he simply pulled her into his arms and held her rather than pushing his will upon her which, as her husband, was his right. A single tear made its way down her cheek as she lay in his arms. The sense of shame she had not felt earlier was suddenly stifling, her mind consumed by it, and in that darkened hour, Melitta began to question her love for Gannicus.
How was it possible to feel so wonderful yet so terrible simultaneously? And was that love?
Later, as they said their goodbyes, and Oenomaus hugged her to him and gave her a passionate kiss goodbye, Melitta did her best to ignore the lack of tingles along her spine. Her blood did not race, and her heart did not pound as if to jump from chest, yet there was a warmth and a level of peace in Oenomaus' familiarity. Melitta embraced that and him before she left his cell to begin her duties in preparation for the trip.
As she made her way to the villa, Melitta's step was hesitant. She was confused again. The self-reproach she felt regarding lying to Oenomaus fed her doubts relating to Gannicus. She was not a dishonorable person and, no matter how she lusted for him, her recent indiscretions with the blonde gladiator were taking a toll on her mentally but she could not deny her longing for him either. Melitta knew she had to come to firm purpose. Perhaps it was time to speak with the Dominus again and accept his offer to have her marriage dissolved. After Rome, she decided. Oenomaus deserved words from her first, and then she could speak with Batiatus if necessary. With a plan in mind, Melitta squared her shoulders and faced her day with new determination.
*8*
As dawn was breaking over the horizon, Gannicus was awakened from slumber by Diona calling his name.
"Leave me be, woman," he groaned, burying his head under his pillow. He did not know when he finally slipped into Morpheus' realm, but it had been late; he and Melitta had spent much of the night engaged in more pleasurable pursuits other than sleeping.
"Apologies, but it is time, Gannicus. Dominus sent me to attend you in preparation for your departure this morn," she told him as she began lighting candles, casting his cell in a soft, easy glow.
Muttering grumpily, Gannicus tossed the pillow aside and slowly sat up, blinking open tired eyes. He yawned loudly as he ran a hand through his bed mussed blonde locks. He had barely taken to his bed and now he was being drug from it. He bit out another curse as he noticed Diona lighting all the candles in the room. "Fuck the Gods! Is it still dark outside? What new torture is this…waking a man before the dawn?"
"Dawn has broken," she chided him lightly, chuckling at the petulance in his tone. "Perhaps I should serve cheese to accompany your whine this morn?"
Gannicus mock scowled at her. "Keep teasing tongue behind teeth, Diona. It is too early in the morn to trade jests with you. My brain…" He yawned again, as if punctuating his point, "has not quite arisen," he finished, stretching his arms over head to ease the stiffness there.
Gannicus felt groggy, yet well satisfied and a slow smile curled his lips as he thought of Melitta. He could still smell her scent on him and surrounding him. He picked up the pillow she'd used and brought it to his face, inhaling deeply. His smile turned to grin as her exotic fragrance flooded his senses, arousing him and bringing his typical morning erection to a near painful level of hardness.
He made a low humming sound of appreciation as he became lost in Melitta's scent.
His provocative sound of approval drew Diona's eyes to him. "Wha—" She floundered, words stuck in throat as she took in his appearance. He was breathtaking. His smile was dreamy as he held his pillow to his nose and her eyes dropped from his face to his bare, sculpted chest, down his lean, hard belly to rest where his covers pooled low around his hips. She couldn't help but notice the way they tented at his crotch; it was glaringly obvious his upper body was not the only thing hard. A heated blush suffused her cheeks at the sight. He had not lay hand upon her since that one drunken night more than a month ago, but she still desired him and found him quite beautiful; she could not seem to tear gaze away.
Gannicus was lost in thought and utterly unaware of Diona's observation until he glanced up and found her staring at his groin, eyes wide and face flushed. He lowered the pillow and placed it on his lap, obstructing her view of his erection.
Diona eyes leapt to his face and she turned an alarming shade of crimson at being caught. "Apologies!" she gasped and immediately spun around, putting her back to him and placing a hand on her chest as if that would still her racing heart. "I did not mean to stare."
Gannicus enjoyed their friendship too much to allow her to become embarrassed and cause an awkwardness between them. "No apologies required. Unfortunately, a man awakens in a state not fitting for innocent eyes," he said, neglecting to mention Melitta as further cause to his state.
"I am no innocent," she reminded with a snort, "but I appreciate sentiment behind words."
Gannicus got up from his bed while she still had her back to him. He was naked and did not desire to have any additional discomfort between them, so he quickly found his subligaria and wrapped it around his slim hips.
"Having a man inside you does not make you jaded," he said, knotting the garment and tucking the ends in at his waist. "You can turn around now. I am decent."
He watched, barely containing his smile as her eyes timidly sought him out. She was far more innocent than she believed. Gannicus had fucked plenty of women who knew men—Diona was not among them.
"But I am no longer virtuous either," she insisted as she began to gather his belongings, tidying up his quarters for him.
"Yet you still blush at the sight of morning erection."
Diona sucked in a sharp breath at his bold words and Gannicus chuckled, her reaction proving his theory. "Diona, you no longer stand a virgin. That is correct. But you are no jaded whore either," he told her amiably. "Your natural curiosity is nothing to be embarrassed nor ashamed of. Strike it from thought and let us not make issue of it."
She paused as meaning became clear. He was offering curiosity as excuse to save her pride as well as her dignity. His care of her feelings warmed heart.
"Gratitude Gannicus," she said softly.
"None required," he said. "I am merely telling my friend she has no cause for concern." His eyes met hers and he smiled. "Because that is what we are, Diona. Friends. I would not have awkwardness between us."
He would also not have her thinking there would ever be more than friendship between them. He hoped his words were gentle reminder that although he may find her extremely desirable, his heart belonged to Melitta; there would be no repeat of his drunken seduction of weeks past.
"Nor would I," she agreed, grateful for the reprieve he offered.
This allowed both Gannicus and Diona to dismiss their earlier uncomfortableness and settle into their normal routine of playful teasing as he gathered his towel and soap and prepared to head for the baths while she set about laying out his clothes and packing any last moment items he might desire for his stay in Rome.
*8*
It was an hour past sunrise, and Titus Batiatus was sitting up in bed, several pillows behind his back as he sipped a cup of honeyed wine, making plans for the time he would spend while errant son and his wife were away from the ludus.
He would see it well spent.
Titus was a man who trusted his instincts. And despite Quintus' assertions to the opposite, the elder Batiatus knew his son was up to no good. Just as he knew his son's wife was a viper in disguise and had known it since the day Quintus brought the woman home. It was not only a matter of Lucretia's lack of breeding that had caused Titus to abhor her, it was the instinctual response he'd had to Lucretia upon their introduction. In an instant Titus had felt a chill from her that still sat with him over a decade later. It was a belief he had never disavowed despite any proof of her devious nature. He planned to take her absence from the villa and use it to his benefit. Perhaps with his son and his wife gone, Titus could have a true answer regarding Lucretia and what kind of woman she was once and for all.
He planned to look into all dealings regarding Gannicus as well while Quintus was away. Titus still had doubts about the Celt. Perhaps not in regard to Gannicus' worth as a champion; he was now of a similar mind as his son as far as that was concerned, yet he could not lose the feeling that the gladiator was not as loyal to the ludus as he appeared. There was something the gladiator was hiding, Titus was certain of it, and until he discovered what it was about Gannicus that caused him concern, he could never truly see the man as his champion. Which was why he planned on having Oenomaus continue his specialized training of Crixus.
He did not, however, intend on having words with his son in relation to his plans, so when Quintus made an appearance before he departed for Rome, Titus had no disparaging remarks and greeted him warmly instead. "Ah, so the hour is upon us," he said, a tired smile making its way upon weathered face.
Batiatus took a seat on the chair next to his father's bed. "It is. I wanted to come and bid you farewell before we departed."
"A gesture most appreciated," he said, studying his son for a moment. "Quintus, I know I do not give praise easily. And it is times like this where an old man's failures seem most obvious. I never sought to hold you back, merely to keep you on proper path and not allow your aspirations for glory taint how you conduct yourself. Your honor is all you truly have, son. I would wish you to remember that and hold it true to heart."
Batiatus frowned at his father's cryptic words. His first thought was 'fuck honor!', but he smiled, placating the old man. "Words of wisdom, father. We shall have much of it after Gannicus wins the primus at the Apolloinares."
"That we will," Titus agreed; he was now as certain as his son that Gannicus would indeed prevail. The Celt had proven himself quite capable in the arena.
Moments ticked by and the lull in conversation lengthened. Father and son never had much in common and very quickly an awkward silence filled the room.
Batiatus placed his hands on his thighs and made to stand. "Well, I must see to Gannicus," he said, itching to leave. "Wish me luck. A victory at the Apolloinares will present us with the primus in both The Romani and the opening games of the new arena!"
"I have no doubt Gannicus will be triumphant."
Surprised at his father's seemingly supportive attitude, Quintus relaxed and even grinned happily. "I am glad to hear it. When I return from Rome I'd like to revisit having the man carved in stone to be placed amongst the Champions this house has already forged."
"A victory in a prestigious contest such as the Apolloinares would certainly earn the man comparable accolades. Let us consider matter revisited presently. If Gannicus wins in Rome, we shall have him cast in stone immediately. If he does not…" Titus shrugged. "It may not present as issue at all, yes?"
"Very well. Your words speak true," Batiatus agreed. He got to his feet. "Well, I should go. We are to leave within the hour. We shall have further discourse upon my return."
Titus nodded. "May the Gods bless you and keep you on your journey, Quintus," he said, maintaining his pleasant facade.
Batiatus returned his father's well wishes in kind and, after a rather awkward hug, Quintus exited his father's room, a newfound bounce to his step. As soon as his son had departed, Titus threw off his furs and removed himself from bed. His life was fading, yet he was still the Dominus of this house, and it was time to see what his son and his deceitful wife had really been up to, besides offering up Gannicus as prize to the highest bidder! Titus had a suspicion the matter with the gladiator was only the beginnings of the impropriety the couple had indulged in. With Quintus and Lucretia off to Rome for at least two weeks, he now had plenty of time to reassert his control over this house and unearth the truth.
*8*
With Diona's help Gannicus was ready for the trip in record time. As he exited his cell with his two large traveling bags filled with clothing, his armor and other accessories he might need, the yard was abuzz with activity. Numerous slaves hurried about loading the last of the nobles' luggage into the wagons; Gannicus paused outside his quarters, taking in the chaos.
The wagons took up the entirety of the training yard, so the gladiators who would normally be starting their daily training at the time were breaking their fast in the eating area or lounging around the water barrel as they waited for the yard to empty. The largest of the wagons, the plaustrum was heavily laden with crates of food, wine, trunks of clothing, items needed to make camp, cooking utensils and other accessories and necessities the nobles had deemed necessary for the four-day trip. Four male slaves were aboard the vehicle, tying a heavy tarp over the items being transported in an effort to keep them from becoming damaged during the trip. Several other slaves were busy loading the raeda, the slave transport wagon, with belongings each slave wanted to bring on the journey to Rome. The luxurious carpentums stood empty as they were being saved for the Roman nobles and the gladiators. The smaller of the two was very similar to the carriage Gannicus had used for his coena libera months earlier and it would carry the gladiators as well as their belongings, while the larger of the two was for Batiatus. The huge carriage was an even grander version of Gannicus' coena libera vehicle with the addition of reclining couches attached to the floor of the coach, for maximum comfort, as well as a spacious sleeping area in the back designed to sleep more than two comfortably. Octavia had them both custom made for the trip and delivered for Batiatus' party to travel in the day prior to their departure.
Slaves bustled all around him carrying last minute items to various wagons. Gannicus held his bags up in an attempt to get the attention of a man who was exiting his cell carrying a crate of wine. "I have two more pieces to be loaded," he said as the man rushed past with the wine. His brow shot up when the man nearly dropped the case. "If that is mine…" He glanced into his cell and noticed that his crated supply of wine was indeed gone. "Best not break it," he muttered, searching for the man in the crowd of slaves gathered around the backs of the wagons.
He heard a crash in the distance and scowled. He dropped his luggage and was about to go hunt that slave down to see if that crash was his wine when Kleos suddenly materialized by his side.
His son took note of the bags Gannicus had set aside. "I can get those for you, tad."
Surprised, Gannicus was momentarily taken aback at the boy's sudden appearance. However, he was quite pleased to see his son and a large grin spread across his face, the wine was quickly forgotten.
"Kleos!" He exclaimed, kneeling down on one knee to properly greet the boy.
He laughed heartily when he was nearly propelled backwards to his rear when the boy suddenly threw his arms around his neck and hugged him. Gannicus' chest tightened, as it did every time Kleos showed his need for affection. He wrapped an arm around the slender back and patted him somewhat awkwardly. He was still trying to find a happy normal in his role as father; it was not natural to him. They had become closer since Gannicus had begun training with Kleos. The gladiator enjoyed their time together and would miss the boy while away.
"What are you doing here so early?"
Kleos leaned back to look into his father's smiling face. "Melitta awoke me so I could bid you farewell on your journey."
If possible, Gannicus' love for her grew even deeper at her thoughtfulness. "Did she? I will have to thank her then."
Kleos gazed up at Gannicus with awe-struck eyes. "You are going to fight in the Apolloinares. One of the most celebrated festivals in the entire Republic."
"I am," Gannicus confirmed. "I shall bring you back a trinket from the event for you to keep."
"You promise?" the boy asked, wide-eyed.
"I promise," Gannicus said.
"Yes!" Kleos did a little leap in the air in his excitement.
Watching his son, Gannicus' heart swelled, chest aching at the flood of emotions he experienced.
"Gratitude tad," the boy said.
"There is none necessary. It is what…fathers should do for their sons." The words sounded awkward falling from lips, but apparently, they were not received as such because Kleos smiled widely.
"In truth, I would not know, I have never had a father until now," Kleos said honestly.
Gannicus chuckled. "In truth, nor would I," he admitted with a rueful grin. "My father was my Chieftain and a warrior. He did not spend much time with me as a lad."
"Then how do you know what fathers do?"
Gannicus shrugged. "I am supposing." He placed a hand on Kleos' shoulder. "We are both unfamiliar with these new roles, Kleos. It is to be expected we would be nervous. Why do we not discover together what is best for us and proceed from there." He stuck his arm out in the salute of brotherhood. "Agreed?"
Kleos' skinny chest puffed up like a rooster. "Agreed," he said and took his father's arm, the pride shining in the little boy's eyes was obvious, even to the briefest of observers.
"I better move this out to the wagons," Kleos said and attempted to take hold of the large bag that contained pieces of Gannicus' armor.
The boy huffed with exertion as he grabbed the bundle with two hands and started to drag it from in front of Gannicus' cell and across the yard to the waiting wagon. He'd barely managed two steps before Gannicus was there. "Give me this," he told his son, removing the heavy baggage from the boy's grasp. "This is larger than you are." He grinned and handed Kleos the other bundle that carried nothing more than clothes and other small items he was taking. "You carry this one." He pointed to the smaller carpentum. "Can you get this to that vehicle?" Kleos nodded. "Good. That is your job."
Kleos gave him a very serious little nod before he began lugging the smaller bag to the back of Gannicus' wagon.
Gannicus watched him for a moment, admiring the boy's tenacity before he picked up the bigger bag and carried it towards the coach he was riding in, chuckling heartily as Kleos, seeing him coming, started to hurry as well, as if they were racing to the cart; the gladiator tamped down his competitive nature and pretended to drop his bag, allowing his son to take the victory.
The boy's happy laughter was well worth the loss.
Duratius and Barca were already at the vehicle, watching as their armor was loaded onto the wooden platform at the back of the smaller carpentum when Gannicus arrived with his last bag. The blonde gladiator looked around for Kleos, finally spotting him moving across the yard towards Batiatus of all people. Gannicus narrowed his eyes, wondering at the man's purpose for seeking further words with the boy.
"Jupiter's cock, Gannicus!" Barca exclaimed drawing Gannicus' attention from Batiatus and Kleos. "Is this fucking jest?"
"Is what a jest?" Gannicus absently replied, handing his bag to the slave that was packing their belongings. He also spied his wine, unbroken, being loaded onto the carpentum and sighed with relief. He would need that, especially when it came time to greet Octavia; he planned on being full of drink when next they met.
Barca waved an arm at the carpentum. "This fucking wagon! Is it truly our means of travel into Rome?" He glanced inside, eyes widening at the decadent opulence inside the fancy coach. "It's fit for fucking nobles!"
Gannicus nodded. Octavia's extravagance no longer made his head spin. "It is," he confirmed. "But I am sleeping alone in the compartment. You and Duratius can have the benches," he added with a grin.
Duratius whistled as he leaned inside, reaching across the space to feel the silky blue fabric covering the over padded benches. "I have no worries regarding sleeping on bench," he said withdrawing from the vehicle. "It is softer than fucking bed in cell!" The Egyptian shook his head in wonder. "You are truly blessed, brother. Your Roman has face and form of fucking Goddess, she lets you plow her noble cunt and she supplies you with riches as well!" He grinned. "Fuck the Gods! How can I find myself a Roman noblewoman?"
Gannicus snorted. He would give Duratius his if he could. "Perhaps, while in Rome, you shall find your own, brother, and she shall take you to her domus as live in lover," the blonde gladiator said with a smirk.
Barca chuckled. "And perhaps I shall awaken tomorrow to find myself King of Carthage." Gannicus arched a brow. "What?" The Beast replied in regard to Gannicus' silent question. "If we are spouting shit from lips I might as well add my own fool's dream to the pot!"
Gannicus burst into laughter and Barca joined him. Duratius was not as amused. He flashed them a crude finger gesture before deciding to ignore his brothers grinning faces as they teased him mercilessly about finding a beautiful Roman to "adopt" him.
"Gannicus, a word," Batiatus called, interrupting the levity and causing the gladiator's attention to be pulled away from the jovial effort of taunting Duratius.
Quintus waved him over to where he stood with Kleos in the eating area, overseeing final preparations. Oenomaus was also by his side, kneeling down to speak with Kleos. Gannicus' smile faded a bit as he felt the sharp pang of guilt at seeing the big Doctore. His night with Melitta had been nothing short of magical, and while he loved Oenomaus, he loved Melitta more; nothing was going to change that. He focused his gaze on Kleos instead and felt smile renew itself.
When Gannicus reached them, Oenomaus rose to his full height and held his arm out and the blonde gladiator took hold. "May the Gods favor you with victory, brother," the Doctore said, a broad smile upon his face.
"Gratitude," Gannicus said. "But I favor focusing heart and mind and creating my own luck. I shall return victorious no matter the Gods." Gannicus gave a firm nod of his head. "You may count on it."
Batiatus rolled his eyes at his gladiator's arrogance. "Who can argue with such strong purpose?" He clapped Gannicus on the shoulder. "Just do not have them piss on you merely to prove point, yes?"
Gannicus chuckled. "The Gods have never favored me, Dominus. If they begin to do so now I shall own fucking Rome before I leave!" He shrugged. "If they do not…I shall merely win contest."
"Yes, well I shall still sacrifice an owl in favor of having the Gods pleased with you rather than wanting to shit on us for your arrogance!" The lanista said, shaking his head at the Celt's lack of fear regarding the Gods' wrath. And while the gladiator might not feel the need to seek the Gods' approval, Quintus did.
A moment later, Batiatus was called away, and Gannicus, happy to leave the discussion of his beliefs, or lack thereof behind, turned conversation to the upcoming games as he and Oenomaus made their way back towards Gannicus' vehicle. When they stopped next to the carpentum, Kleos was staring up at the imposing wagon with awe.
"It is grand," the boy whispered.
"Would you care to see inside?" Gannicus asked.
Kleos nodded enthusiastically, causing Gannicus to chuckle again. He inclined his head towards the entrance. "Go on," Gannicus indulged. "Do not break anything," he added as afterthought.
Kleos explored inside the carpentum while the two men chatted outside.
"Do you know who you face in the Apolloinares?" Oenomaus asked.
"Argonaut and I are to fight six men," Gannicus replied. "Once the sixth man is defeated, we are to face each other."
Surprised, Oenomaus' brow shot up. "You are fighting for championship of Rome…so soon?"
Gannicus shrugged. "I assume it is for championship. If I beat the man, title is mine, is it not?"
"Is the match sine-missione?" The Doctore questioned.
"No," Gannicus said, shaking his head. "It is a non-lethal contest. Why, I am uncertain."
"Because you are Capua's champion and he is Rome's," Oenomaus explained. "If the match is as exciting as I suspect it will be, a non-lethal contest will allow for a rematch at the Romani."
Gannicus snorted. "I have no eye towards the Romani, presently. My gaze is set to the Apolloinares and becoming champion of Rome first."
"As it should be," Oenomaus agreed.
Kleos suddenly stuck his head out of the window interrupting their conversation. "Tad are you truly traveling in this?"
From beneath the window, Gannicus glanced up at his son's exuberant face and grinned. "I am."
"Are you rich then?" the child asked with a smile.
Oenomaus and Gannicus laughed heartily at that. "No," he said to Kleos, "I am not."
"Then how is it you have this carriage?"
Oenomaus lifted a brow and Gannicus paused before giving partial truth. "A friend has allowed me use of hers." Kleos opened his mouth and Gannicus headed him off before he could get started. "Before you set upon me with questions, Kleos. I do not know where she got it, how long she has had it, or why she gifted me with such a thing."
Oenomaus let out a small guffaw. "You have learned your lessons already," he said to Gannicus under his breath.
Gannicus nodded with a smile but did not reply.
"Oh," Kleos said, unaware of the hushed communication regarding his joy of interrogation. "Well, she must surely have caring for you to offer such a fine wagon. Is she a good friend then?"
Oenomaus coughed. "Out of the mouths of babes," he said softly.
Gannicus shot him a quelling glance. "Let us keep him innocent a while longer," he returned just as quietly.
Kleos was awaiting a reply and Gannicus sighed. How did his son always manage to find awkward topic for conversation?
"Yes, she is a..." He paused, nearly choking on the outrageous lie he was about to tell. "Ahem, a good friend," the gladiator finally said, hoping that would be the end of it.
Before the boy could bring about another uncomfortable subject, Gannicus's attention was snagged as Diona approached to say her goodbyes. "A moment," he said to Kleos and Oenomaus, taking note of the tears in the green-eyed slave's eyes. He opened his arms.
Diona hesitated for a small second before she rushed to him, hugging him tight as she buried her face in his chest. "I shall miss you terribly," she whispered.
"Ssshhh," he breathed, kissing the crown of her head. "You will barely notice me absent."
"You know better," she murmured, tightening her arms around his waist.
"Speaking of being missed," Oenomaus said as he spotted Melitta crossing the yard behind a male house slave carrying a large colorful box with a bow wrapped around it.
Gannicus turned and was captured by her appearance too. His heart rate sped up at the sight of her. Guilt reared its ugly head as well and it was only by sheer force of his will he kept his face free of any and all expression.
"I wish you a safe passage, brother," the Doctore said, clapping Gannicus on the shoulder. "I must have words with my wife. With her duties towards the journey, I barely spent an hour in her arms this morn. You can understand why I wish to have another moment before being parted from her."
Gannicus' stomach dropped, and irrational jealousy ripped through him as he dissected the other man's meaning. Questions began to torture his mind. Had Melitta went to Oenomaus after her night with him? Did they—were they intimate? Had she lay in Oenomaus' arms and whispered her love? The thoughts swirling within brain made his stomach cramp sickly. He could not fault Melitta, Oenomaus was her rightful husband, but it hurt, more than Gannicus wanted to examine presently. With Diona in his arms, Gannicus gave Oenomaus a short nod and ignored his upset.
"Gratitude," he said softly, swallowing his guilt, his suspicions and his envy. He could not allow his emotions consume him. The Doctore acknowledged his thanks with a shake of the brotherhood before he departed after Melitta. Gannicus watched the big man approach her, but at the last moment, turned gaze away. He did not want to see their goodbye. It would serve no purpose but to cause further ache to seize heart. Instead, he focused on Diona; his friend was having difficult time saying farewell; this was an issue he could solve presently.
"Do not cry," he told her, using his thumbs to wipe away her tears. "I shall be back before you know it." Gannicus placed a soft kiss upon her brow and offered tender smile. "Keep a watchful eye on Kleos for me? It would soothe worry to know you were watching him."
"Of course," she said softly. "As if he were my own."
Gannicus nodded. "Your words offer me great comfort." He gave her an affectionate squeeze. "Gratitude Diona. I shall miss you. Perhaps not how you constantly beat me in Tali," he teased with a wink. "But your company and friendship will be sorely missed."
Batiatus signaled it was time to go, and Diona, with one last hug to Gannicus, motioned for Kleos to come forward. The boy was standing at the back of the carpentum looking despondent but shuffled over to where Diona stood with his father, even if it was with a slow gait and a pained expression on his face.
Gannicus got down on one knee so he and the boy were of a similar height. "I shall return soon, Kleos, with a victory under my belt."
Kleos once again launched himself at Gannicus and hugged him. "Gratitude for my blankets and pillow and the shoes…" He sniffed, his slim little body shuddering with his ragged breaths. "I forgot to tell you how much I appreciate them."
Gannicus pulled back and wiped away the lone tear on his son's face. "I am glad. Dominus has promised some clothing to be delivered as well. Ask Diona if you need anything, she will help you while I am away."
"I like Diona," Kleos said.
"As do I," Gannicus replied, glancing up at the young woman and smiling. "Would you like her to come and spend time with you while I am gone?"
Kleos nodded, lower lip jutting in a pout similar to his father's when Gannicus was in a mood. The gladiator put his hand on his son's shoulder. "I want you to practice your training each day while I am in Rome, Kleos. Understood?"
"I understand, tad. I will."
"Good. I will ask for a showing of how adept you have become upon my return."
Kleos nodded, still looking at the ground as he occasionally wiped at his cheeks. Gannicus sighed. The boy was weeping quietly. Trying to maintain his dignity. Gannicus could respect that, but he had no idea what to do. He had experienced tearful goodbyes before and, if Kleos was woman, he would have been off already. Gannicus was adept at removing himself from the clinging embrace of the fairer sex, but this was different, he had no experience wriggling out of the small but unbreakable clutches of any child, much less his own.
Gannicus tipped his chin up. "I know we have just found each other and it appears I am leaving, but that is not the case. You are of importance to me, Kleos. I will not be gone longer than necessary."
Gannicus' words soothed the boy because Kleos took a deep breath and raised his chin. "I will miss you," he said.
"And I you," Gannicus admitted. "Now, I must go. Come, give me one final goodbye and wish me good luck."
Kleos hugged him tight. "I do not have to wish you luck because you make your own. You said so. I heard you."
Gannicus laughed. "You are right." He stood and ruffled the boy's hair. The guard at the back of the carpentum looked irritated but Gannicus cared not. He smiled at Diona and Kleos. "I shall return before either of you truly miss me."
Kleos bravely bit back his tears and nodded. "And, I shall be here to congratulate you on your great victory when you return."
In a line, the wagons began leaving the yard. "Time's up, gladiator," the guard said.
Gannicus noticed the huge plaustrum turn to move into the first position. The guard gave him an impatient glance; he had to go now, or he could be punished. He cupped the boy's cheek. "Be good. Practice and listen to Diona," he said and then climbed into the carpentum. "I will see you both soon."
"Say goodbye," the guard said and secured the door behind Gannicus without waiting for further words. He smirked and turned the key of the large padlock that kept the gladiators within the carriage contained. "Your dad says goodbye boy," the man said before taking the reigns to his horse and swinging himself up into the saddle.
Kleos scowled at the man's back as he moved his horse to ride in front of Gannicus' wagon.
One by one each vehicle slowly got in line and soon the caravan left the yard altogether.
Diona and Kleos watched Gannicus' wagon until it left the ludus. When the guards shut the gates behind the vehicles, the child's small body started to tremble.
Diona soothed him by placing her hands on his shoulders and squeezing gently. "I will miss him as well, Kleos."
The boy glanced up and studied her for a moment. "Do you love my father too, Diona?"
Her brow raised. "Too? And who else loves your father?"
"The girls in the kitchens. They always speak of him. Saying how he makes them swoon." Kleos made a face. "They are stupid."
She took his hand in hers and started to lead him off the training yard. The gladiators were in the dining area, but they would be starting their training for the day shortly. "And why are they stupid?" she asked him, smiling down at the young boy who looked so much like his father it made heart ache.
"Because," he said, "they used to tease me until they discovered Gannicus stood my father. Ingrid was especially mean. She used to pinch me and say things about my mother, and now…"
"And now they try and befriend you?" Diona accurately surmised.
They came to the gate between the ludus and the villa. The guard, seeing Diona, opened the gate for them to pass.
He nodded solemnly. "Ingrid brings me treats. Just yesterday she gave me a honey cake, but she asks of my tad when she brings them," Kleos said as they made their way up the stairs, "as if she does not believe me smart enough to know she seeks my friendship as means to get close to him." He scowled. "He has never visited her in the kitchens, but she says they are good friends. That is why she is stupid."
Diona was not pleased to hear the girl was informing Kleos of her relationship with Gannicus. For, in fact, Ingrid did know Gannicus. She was one of the girls who used to service him, but Diona was not about to tell Kleos that and Ingrid should keep her tongue behind teeth as well!
"I will break words with Ingrid," she told the boy with a sigh.
Kleos smiled at Diona and shrugged. "I spoke with her myself."
Diona raised a brow. "And what words did you have with her?"
"I told her you were my father's woman," he replied with a grin that was so reminiscent of Gannicus' charming smile, Diona could not help but return it. "I think that made her angry."
"I can imagine," Diona replied with a giggle. Ingrid had been giving her death glares since Gannicus asked for her. She could imagine the blonde had not appreciated Kleos' words. "Strike Ingrid from thought Kleos. Your father has no care for her, and if she is foolish enough to curry his favor through you, then let her try. At least she will no longer pinch you," she teased.
Kleos pondered her words for a moment before he nodded. "And she will no longer call my mother names either."
"Exactly," Diona said, deciding she would remind Ingrid how upset Gannicus would be if he learned the woman had been making life difficult for his son.
"He has care for you," Kleos said, breaking into Diona's thoughts. He gave her a shy smile. "I saw it in the manner with which he said goodbye to you today."
Diona returned the boy's smile. "As I care for him." They came to the kitchens. "Let us break our fast and then, if you'd like, you can sit with Naevia and I as we gather water from the impluvium."
"I'd like that," he said, taking Diona's hand again as they entered the kitchens.
*8*
And they are off to Rome… I know, finally! ;) All feedback, comments and reviews are greatly appreciated. :)
