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.
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.
Chapter 52: pacta sunt servanda: Agreements must be kept.
Luckily, for Batiatus and his party, the rest of the trip to Rome was uneventful, and tor the last night of the journey, they stayed in a mansiones, unwilling to sleep in the carriages again after their horrifying ordeal with the highway men. In the pub next door to their lodgings, Quintus even managed to hire three soldiers who were returning to Rome for their next campaign to act as escort for them.
After nearly losing her to murderous thieves, Gannicus found it frustrating that he had no opportunity to have intimate words with Melitta. He spoke with her briefly during times when their party would stop for meals, but with Duratius and Barca constantly in attendance, he could not speak openly. Eventually he had given up trying to have time alone with her, realizing it would not be possible with so many prying eyes and ears surrounding them. He resigned himself to public discussions and simply watching her from afar; at least he still had that luxury.
On the fourth day, when they were an hours ride from the city, Batiatus sent one of the soldiers ahead to inform Octavia of their impending arrival that evening. Prior to their departure, Octavia sent a missive to the ludus reminding Batiatus that wagons of any sort were illegal to drive in the capital during the day. Therefore, she advised him to plan on arriving at dusk, as they would not be allowed past the wall surrounding Rome if they arrived before nightfall. She would have their party met at the outskirts of the city, near the Appian gate entrance and escorted into the fortified city where they would enter her domus on Palatine Hill using a private road with wagon access just off the Via Appia.
"Let us hope she has an escort waiting for us," Quintus said as he watched the dust fade from his man's horse.
Gaia snickered. "You have Gannicus," she said. "She will bring escort. I suspect not even Jupiter himself could stop the woman."
*8*
Rome:
Octavia rose from the bath, her nude body glistening as she paused upon the steps leading from the sunken marble pool filled with fresh goat's milk. Two slave girls standing on either side of her poured carafes of fresh tepid water over her body to wash away the remnants of milk before the blonde Roman stepped from the pool and onto the soft cloths placed next to her bath. She held both arms out as Anya, her new body slave, immediately began drying her with a soft linen cloth, while another slave girl rubbed sensual oils into her skin. A third slave began brushing out her long blonde hair and a fourth held up a looking glass for Octavia to view herself as her grooming took place.
"Hurry," she said to none of them in particular. "It has been months. I can practically feel his hands upon me." After Anya was finished drying her, the middle-aged body slave helped Octavia into her purple robe made of Chinese silk before leaving the room for a moment to gather her cosmetics; Anya was an accomplished cosmetae.
"Will you be desiring a complete cultus, Domina?"
"Yes. I want face, hair and skin to be as if I were hosting dinner for a noble," she replied. "Gannicus is important to me and I must be perfection when I greet him."
Anya smiled at her young Domina. "Then you must have patience. Perfection takes time, even when working with a naturally beautiful canvas such as yourself."
"You flatter," Octavia said as she took a seat on a padded jade colored stool chair. Anya began laying out brushes and golden containers of cosmetics. "It is appreciated. Although I will forego shadow or kohl upon my eyes today," she decided. "Just some light powder, color for my cheeks and a touch of henna for my lips."
Anya nodded. "I have burnt some cork for your lashes as well."
Octavia took a deep breath to still her racing heart. "Excellent. Gratitude, Anya." She smiled at the woman who, the Roman was certain, had been a great beauty in her day, but whose beauty had faded through time and years of slavery. "I have long awaited this reunion. I desire his pulse to quicken at the sight of me."
"It will, Domina," Anya assured, lightly dusting Octavia's face with white facial powder made of chalk and white lead. "Pale and perfectly unblemished," The woman said, admiring Octavia's skin. "Venus herself would envy your pale radiance. When I am finished, there will not be a man alive who could resist you. Especially not your hot-blooded gladiator."
Octavia giggled. "You are a treasure, Anya."
Anya picked up a small brush and began stroking it along Octavia's curved lips. "It is you and your husband who are the treasures, Domina. I will be forever grateful for his interference. He saved my life."
Octavia sighed. Anya was another of Claudius' pet projects. He had purchased her last month during a foray onto Aventine Hill after he spotted the woman's Domina beating Anya severely and publicly for nothing more serious than dropping a bag of apples. He had offered Anya's Domina an exorbitant sum for Anya and saved the woman. While she admired her husband's loving nature, Octavia had been furious with Claudius for being in the Aventine again. She had warned him to stay away from the plebian community that was nothing more than a den for brigands and social unrest. The men responsible for the latest commotion regarding reforming the laws of land ownership lived on Aventine Hill. If Claudius were to be seen there by a member of the patrician class, or worse, viewed making such a public display of rescuing a slave… Octavia could not finish the thought. At best, discovery would be political suicide. At worst, it could literally mean his life since even the plebs believed in slavery and would not support Claudius in his quest to see slavery abolished.
Octavia considered it a blessing for one and all that he had not been spotted; moreover, Anya's purchase had definitely worked in Octavia's favor. She had been in need of a new body slave after selling Yadira and Anya was already well trained. In addition, it turned out Anya was a master at applying cosmetics, much to Octavia's pleasure. It would have been a most happy occasion, except for Claudius' increasing forays into places and communities he did not belong; her husband was becoming bolder with each of his slave rescues and it worried Octavia to no end.
She took old of the woman's hand, squeezing it firmly in her fright. "You must not continue to speak of it, Anya," she warned. "Other nobles would not be so understanding, and it could endanger my husband. We accept your thanks but will hear no more on it. Is that understood?"
Anya bowed her head. "Yes, Domina."
"Good," Octavia said, her smile returning. "Now make me luscious. I expect more than just his pulse to rise upon seeing me."
*8*
The sun was just making its descent when the wagons crested the hill that led to Rome and the city came into view below. Batiatus was surprised when he heard his driver call for their vehicles to stop. He glanced out his window to see why and realized there was a sleek wooden carruca blocking the road. A carruca was a small carriage built for quicker travel than a carpentum. It was just as opulent as the larger wagon and had the same type of suspension but sat no more than four passengers at the most. Batiatus was not at all surprised when Octavia herself alighted from the vehicle. Quintus supposed now, was as good a time as any to get out and stretch the legs since he had a feeling he was going to be moving two of his gladiators in a moment to accommodate Octavia joining Gannicus in his wagon.
"Why are we stopped, Quintus?" Lucretia asked from her position upon one of the couches within the wagon.
"Octavia is here to greet us," he replied.
"She is?" Lucretia appeared surprised.
"Of course, she is," Gaia chuckled, a wicked grin curving her ruby lips as she sat forward and looked out the window. She had decided to not wear her wigs during the trip and patted her naturally dark hair to ensure it was still in place. "It has been months since she's had your man's cock," she said, relaxing after she'd assured she was still presentable. "I am certain she is eager to reacquaint herself with his bountiful charms."
Lucretia made a face at her friend's crude words but did not comment as she followed Batiatus from the vehicle with Gaia right behind her.
Melitta dutifully trailed after her Domina. Her stomach was in knots as she realized Gannicus was going to be fulfilling bargain with the woman much sooner than anticipated. He had worried over this meeting, now it was upon them and it made her ill to think that soon he would be within that woman's embrace. She could only hope they would not be forced to listen as he fucked the woman, as Melitta knew after the incident in the triclinium, the Roman was noisy in her pleasure. The prospect of having to sit idly by while her lover satisfied another was enough to drive Melitta a little mad!
In the other carpentum, Gannicus too had wondered why they had quit moving. When he looked out the window and saw Octavia, his stomach dropped. He had been preparing himself for what was to come, but he had believed he had hours yet before he would be forced to submit to Octavia once again. Apparently, he did not. After making love to Melitta before this trip, he had no desire to fuck another. Especially a woman who could not even allow him a moment to settle in and unpack belongings before accosting him and demanding his cock. He had expected her to be waiting to whisk him off to her bed as soon as she could, but it had not occurred to him she would actually travel to meet their party before they reached her domus. Knowing Octavia's obsession with him, he supposed it really should have.
Duratius shook his head as he watched the woman greet Batiatus. "The Gods again favor you," he said glancing towards Gannicus. "It appears you are about to have a visit from your fucking goddess while Barca and I are shuffled off to fuck knows where!"
Gannicus managed to force a smile. "Favor me…" He sighed. Perhaps Duratius saw it as such. Gannicus did not.
"Fuck the Gods, Duratius," Gannicus told his brother mysteriously. "They do not choose my fate. Experience teaches each man that he is the artisan of his own future. If I cannot find a way to have my will be done, I will make one."
Barca chuckled, elbowing Duratius teasingly. "If I did not know better I would think he was waxing philosophical, but we both know the only truth Mad Gannicus believes in is 'I drink, therefore I am'!"
The three gladiators shared a laugh over Barca's statement, even Gannicus would have to agree the man had a point.
Outside the coaches, Octavia inclined her head to Quintus. "Welcome Batiatus," she said, her face alive with a wild excitement that Batiatus was positive had naught to do with his arrival and more to do with his champion's.
"Octavia, we were not expecting you to greet us personally, but we are honored beyond belief."
Octavia hugged Gaia and Lucretia, brushing kisses upon each of their cheeks before she replied to Quintus. "Of course, I would greet dear friends personally," she said with a smile. "When I got your message regarding your difficulties on your journey…" She shuddered delicately. "Thank the Gods you had your gladiators. It sickens me to see how unsafe our roads are becoming," she said.
Batiatus nodded in agreement. "Filthy thieves. They learned hard lesson though. Not a one survived."
"Should have crucified the lot," Octavia bit out.
"That would have taken far too much energy," Gaia replied with a sigh. "They did not receive proper burial and will wander for eternity without ever reaching the shores of the after-life."
"A fitting end then," Octavia said. After a moment the blonde Roman's eyes were drawn towards the smaller carpentum where Gannicus was. She worried her bottom lip, a look of longing washing over her face for a moment before she turned back to her fellow nobles. "Gaia, do you recall where the posticum entrance to my city domus can be reached?"
"Do you not have to travel by private road off Via Appia?" the brunette replied.
Octavia nodded. "It is difficult to find if you are unfamiliar with Palatine Hill." She smiled at Gaia. "I had hoped you would remember, but you mainly visited using main entryway through the vestibulum. I would ride with Gannicus to my domus, but I will have my driver take the reins of his carpentum and you shall follow me. We will halt at the Appian gate entrance to the city. Yes?"
Gaia noticed Octavia wringing her hands and tapping her foot as she spoke and was surprised at Octavia's obvious nervous impatience. The woman was usually cool as rain water, yet she was positively babbling and twitching like a common pleb. It was very much unlike the cunning blonde who was always poised, no matter the situation. However, when Octavia made mention of Gannicus, her mood made sense. The woman must truly be in love with the gladiator, because only tender emotions produced such anxious excitement it caused a person to lose all control of their demeanor in such a fashion.
Gaia looped her arm though Octavia's as Batiatus went to Gannicus' coach. The blonde was positively shaking. "You tremble," Gaia noted.
Octavia shrugged it off. "It has been a moment since I have laid gaze upon him."
"It has," Gaia agreed. "But you must remember, Octavia, he is yet a slave. Do not become overly attached," she cautioned, her worry over the other woman evident.
Octavia did not appreciate the sentiment. "I am aware of his station, Gaia. Kindly keep nose to your own business and out of mine."
Gaia sighed. "Apologies. I am merely concerned for dear friend."
Octavia let out a sigh and shook off her ire. "It is I who offer apologies. You speak of caution as friend and I hiss at you like a viper. Forgive me my temper?"
"Of course," Gaia replied and wisely let the matter go.
While the two women waited for Batiatus to remove Duratius and Barca from the gladiator's wagon. Gaia, Lucretia and Octavia discussed plans for the first day in Rome.
"I have an appointment in the city on the morrow, so I would suggest a trip to the Trajan Market while we are there," Octavia said.
Gaia practically squealed with glee. "I cannot wait. Capua's idea of a market is tents set up along the alley ways. There are very few vendors who actually invest in a decent storefront."
Octavia made a face. "I am aware. I could not wait to visit Trajan when I returned." She glanced to Lucretia. "No offense intended but your dusty little city simply does not offer a similar experience."
Lucretia shrugged. "None taken. I have heard of Trajan Market from Gaia and am most eager to make my acquaintance with the marvel."
The other gladiators were being placed in another carriage and suddenly Octavia couldn't wait a moment longer. "Apologies. I am eager to discuss a shopping adventure, but it will have to wait for a later date." She gave Lucretia and Gaia a brief hug. "For now, I must see Gannicus," she said and hurried over to the carpentum that contained Batiatus' champion.
She paused and called her driver over. "Other than being overtaken by brigands, which had best not happen again! I am not to be disturbed until we reach the city," she told the man. "Understood?"
"Yes Domina," the man said, bobbing his head obediently.
"Good. Alert me when we arrive at the Appian gate," she said before entering the carpentum.
*8*
Gannicus was sitting upon one of the padded seats trying desperately to banish Melitta from brain when Octavia entered the coach and shut the wooden door behind her. The wall sconces within the carpentum lit the interior quite nicely, giving the cabin a warm golden glow. Gannicus could clearly see the hunger in her gaze as it traveled over him. He took a settling breath and forced a smile in return.
"I have missed you," she breathed, her eyes drinking in the sight of him like a woman starved and parched of thirst. His hair was unclipped, and in a wonderful disarray around his handsome face. He wore nothing more than a pair of black barbarian pants and his chest, calves and feet were bare. Octavia licked her lips, admiring his golden physique. "Gods! You look good enough to eat and I find myself ravenous."
Gannicus took in her flowing purple robes that dipped low in front to give a tantalizing view of her bosom. Her upswept blonde hair was held in place by jeweled clips and pins and her cheeks and lips were lightly blushed with color. It was apparent she had taken time on her appearance, and he could admit she looked beautiful. He thought to tell her so, however, he had barely opened mouth to offer greeting when she practically flew across the carriage to throw herself at him. His hands automatically went to her hips as she landed in his lap, locked her arms around his neck and fused her lips to his. Her tongue thrust into his mouth over and again, like conquering army as she writhed upon him, kissing him continuously, barely giving him a moment to come up for air. It was overwhelming. She pulled at the front of his breeches, eager to see him in all his naked glory once again. In her haste, she scratched his belly and tore his pants. It became too much for the gladiator and her overbearing manner caused what little desire Gannicus had mustered to wither.
"Octavia!" he gasped, pulling away to take a much-needed breath while he grabbed hold of her busy hands as well. "Manhandling me does not inspire passions to soar."
She reared back, face flushed and breathing hard. "You desire me no longer?"
"I did not say that," Gannicus sighed.
Her hand went between them to his groin. "Your cock speaks for you!" Her eyes flared. Octavia had spent much time on her appearance. She looked spectacular, so it could not be her comeliness that left him cold. There had to be another cause. "So, Evia was not the only whore you have fucked since we last saw each other."
She went to remove herself from his lap, but he wrapped an arm around her waist keeping her there. Having her leave in a fit of temper would not bode well for him. "Octavia, hold," he said, trying to wrestle her back into position as she struggled to escape his grasp.
She slapped him across the face—hard. "Who satisfied cock to such degree that it now lays limp, absent purpose despite having a beautiful woman in lap?" she snarled.
Her rage spurred something in him. Something dark; and his desire to debase this creature who demanded so much from him rose sharply. He slid a hand up her leg, stopping just before he reached the apex between her thighs. His thumb stroked the soft inner flesh between legs, distracting her and redirecting her emotions.
"My cock has not been in another since the slave girl you sent to spy on me," he lied without batting an eye. He gripped her by her hair, yanking her head back. She could have him flogged or worse for daring to treat her as such, but she would not. He could see the lust in her eyes. "You do indeed look beautiful, but I do not care to be attacked like prey by a rabid she-wolf!"
Outrage swept across her features. "You fucking dare—"
"I fucking dare," he told her, burying his hand further into her upswept hair and sending several of her decorative hairpins flying. "I have eagerly desired this reunion with the enticing lover who left Capua over two months ago. When she arrives so shall the strength return to my cock!"
"I could have you crucified for manhandling me in such a manner," she reminded him. But her voice was breathless. Her body trembling.
"You could," he agreed, "but you will not." His confidant fingers settled upon hot flesh between her legs, stroking the swollen lips of her sex. "Because you love it when I…manhandle you," he told her, slipping two long, graceful fingers into her wet depths and curling them, petting that spot within her that made her scream. "Tell me I am wrong?" he asked, his brow cocked, his fingers moving in and out of her lazilly. She remained silent, the only sound that escaped her lips was a small whimper. It was a satisfying sound and Gannicus gave a soft growl of victory before he captured her mouth with his, kissing her deeply and attacking her in similar manner as she had ravaged him just moments earlier, difference being, while Gannicus detested the power she had over him—Octavia thrived on him taking charge.
She surrendered to his lead without challenge, allowing thighs to part and lips to soften. "Please…"
He allowed himself a moment to savor her submission before he pulled back to look into her passion-filled gaze. "Please…what?" He prompted, holding his breath as he waited to see if she would resume previous position and play the game with him.
She frowned for a moment and then her eyes widened as she realized what he wanted from her; a slow smile spread across her face. "Please…Dominus," she whispered.
Gannicus gave a soft growl. He wanted to crow his triumph much as he did when he was victorious upon the sands. Instead, he took her hand and placed it upon his now rigid erection. "Does that feel absent purpose to you?" he purred before he pushed her from his lap and onto the floor of the carpentum and got to his feet. He walked over to the curtain separating the main portion of the carriage from the sleeping compartment.
For a brief second, her eyes flashed with fury for being unceremoniously dumped from lap, but he did not apologize. Boundaries were being reformed and Gannicus needed to have the same balance in the scales of power as he'd enjoyed before she returned to Rome. He could not abide having a return of the Roman bitch!
He yanked the golden curtain aside and turned back to her, a seductive tilt to his lips. She looked up at him from her position at his feet. She was shaking with excitement, her green eyes heavy with longing.
Gannicus knew he had her. "Drop fucking robes, Octavia," he demanded huskily. "I have been absent your cunt for over two months. I would see drought ended and cock satisfied between your moist thighs."
She did not immediately comply, and he grinned. "Would you like me to come and get you?" He knew she liked to be chased…and caught.
She climbed to her feet on wobbly legs but quickly managed to do as he ordered. She removed her clothing, dropping her expensive robes to the floor and stood before him in nothing more than the tiny triangle of cloth that covered her woman's mound. Her hands went to the ties at her hips, but he stopped her.
"Leave that," he instructed. "You know I have a fondness for tearing it off you."
"Yes Dominus," she said and Gannicus's cock jumped. He could not deny he enjoyed hearing her call him that.
He inclined his head towards the sleeping quarters. "Get in," he said, his voice rough with rising lust. "And place yourself on hands and fucking knees. My cock has found purpose and I will see it through presently."
She immediately did as he commanded. He gave her a hand getting into the raised compartment and watched as she took position on all fours, waiting for him.
Gannicus took a deep breath, mentally preparing himself. He intentionally placed her in such a position where he would not have to look at her face, believing it would make task easier to perform. "Forgive me," he whispered very quietly under his breath, and then he followed Octavia into the sleeping compartment, his body now prepared to carry out his duty and fuck her to required satisfaction.
*8*
When they reached the Appian gate, Octavia's driver informed her, so she could make her presence known to the sentries on duty. In order for their party to be allowed clearance into the city they had to state their purpose and where they would be staying. The guards quickly recognized who she was and did not question the group further; within moments they were entering Rome for the first time. Gannicus wanted to look out the window and look upon the city he had heard so many tales of, but he could not. Octavia was not through with him, so while the rest of the party was marveling at the sights within the capital, Gannicus was between Octavia's thighs, making the woman scream.
An hour later, the caravan made the turn onto the paved but private road that led to Claudius and Octavia's city estate on Palatine Hill, the most wealthy and influential property amongst the seven hills of Rome.
The Aurelius domus was a magnificent sprawling estate. It took up the entirety of a full city block and was more a palace than simple domus. Because they were arriving after dusk and at the rear entrance, the true grandeur of the two-story dwelling could not be seen; however, the ten massive columns securing one side of the upper level were imposing indeed, perhaps even more so at night.
Exiting their carpentum, Batiatus and Lucretia marveled at the sheer size of Octavia's home.
Gaia nudged Lucretia. "Did I not say she had plenty of room to accommodate?"
Lucretia nodded, a bit in awe. "I knew her husband was wealthy, but this…"
"Will provide us the invitation we need to obtain true glory," Batiatus chimed in, smiling broadly as he got his first glimpse of how rich Octavia truly was. It was beyond even his wildest imaginings; Batiatus as well pleased.
He had the hired soldiers unload Barca and Duratius. Since the men had helped save his life and the lives of Lucretia and Gaia, Batiatus felt no need to have either gladiator shackled; if they had wanted to escape, when they had been attacked on the trip would have been perfect time.
"I am uncertain where you will be housed," Batiatus said, rubbing the back of his neck as he set gaze to Gannicus' carriage. "As we are still awaiting our hostess to finish with Gannicus..." He shrugged. "Jupiter's cock! We could be standing around for fucking hours yet!"
Duratius and Barca shared a grin over that.
It took several minutes for Octavia to finally join them, but when she did, she was all smiles as she climbed down from the carpentum she had shared with Gannicus into town. She noticed Barca and Duratius standing beside the other wagon waiting to be shown to their quarters.
"Batiatus, it is good thing you brought additional gladiators," the blonde Roman said, inclining her head to the men in question.
"Oh, and why is that?" the lanista asked.
"Because attendance for the Apolloinares is going to be a record high this year…perhaps as large a crowd as two hundred thousand people," she told Quintus before turning back to look for Gannicus.
A subdued Gannicus exited the carriage at a slower pace. He was dressed in a white tunic and tan barbarian pants. His hair had been pulled back from his face and he was wearing the arm bands and lion's claw necklace Octavia had gifted him. His eyes immediately searched for and found Melitta. Their gazes held for a moment until he looked away, but seconds later his attention again returned to her, full of longing. She offered him tender smile and his expression lightened, obviously relieved she was not upset with him. There was no doubts as to what had taken place during the ride into the city, and it was just as plain Gannicus needed Melitta's forgiveness. She inclined her head surreptitiously letting him know without words she placed no blame with him. The champion made his way over to where his brothers were standing, taking their teasing in stride when they commented on how long it took for him and Octavia to join the others.
Gaia commented on the crowds in relation to the political strife that had held Rome prisoner for the last few years. "With Sulla retiring to the country and finally surrendering control of Rome back to the people, many are in a mood to celebrate, I am certain."
"Yes," Octavia agreed, her eyes watching Gannicus for a moment before returning to the other nobles. "Which is why Claudius is planning three separate gladiatorial contests within the circus simultaneously. He desires every guest in attendance to experience true contest within easy viewing. It is vital he retain the consul's position; therefore, this festival must be legendary. As such, he is in need of two fine gladiators to head the other primus'." Her gaze turned to Quintus. "Would this be of interest to you?"
Enthused at the prospect, Batiatus grinned. "Are you fucking jesting?" he teased. "Of course, I'm interested. And luckily, I have two of my best men accompanying us. Duratius," he said waving an arm at the big Egyptian, "can wield both sword and axe with great skill." Batiatus pointed to Barca. "And the Beast of Carthage fights as hoplomachus. You will not find a gladiator more accomplished with a spear."
"Wonderful," Octavia said. "Then it is settled. Each of your gladiators will have a spot in the three primus', with Gannicus heading the primus for the Nobles viewing pleasure." She clapped her hands excitedly. "Claudius will be most pleased."
Batiatus would have all three of his men in the primus of three separate matches. It was unheard of and he shared an excited look with Lucretia.
"Gratitude, Octavia. You honor us," Lucretia said to her hostess.
"Nonsense. You honor my family. Now come," she said, "allow me to give you a tour and show you to your rooms." She signaled for some of her slaves to start unloading her guests belongings and called a tall Nubian slave over to attend. "Nerolis, show the guards to the outer domus where the gladiators are being housed and see that they are settled with food, wine and their belongings secured."
"Yes Domina," the man said, bowing his head.
"Batiatus," she called. "Have your men, with the exception of Gannicus, follow Nerolis. He will show them to their quarters and see them well attended."
Batiatus ordered his guards to go with the gladiators until he summoned them back to his side.
"Gannicus, come," Octavia called out, gaining his attention from his brothers. The Roman recalled his fascination with the tapestries and mosaic scenes created within her Capua villa and wanted to show him the treasures contained within her Roman domus. She waved for him to hurry up and Gannicus reluctantly obeyed, telling Barca and Duratius he would see them later. When he came to stand by Octavia's side, she looped her arm through his. "I am eager for you to see the mosaics of the atrium floor. The most glorious battles ever placed in tile." She chuckled as she turned gaze to Batiatus. "You will especially appreciate the artwork that depicts your Doctore's battle with the Shadow of Death."
"Ah," Batiatus said, "a storied battle. One worthy of being recreated." He watched as Barca, Duratius and his guards followed the big Nubian slave past Octavia's grand domus and further onto the property. "Where do they go? Have you cells back there?"
Octavia shook her head. "There is a small villa on the property that has several cubiculums within. I had it converted into a secured domus that can house your gladiators."
Gannicus was surprised. "We are to stay in a villa and not cells?"
"Is that safe?" Lucretia asked.
"The building is secure. Trust words." She glanced to Gannicus. "Are you planning to rebel while you are here?"
Gannicus chuckled. "Hardly."
"You see? We are in no danger," Octavia said, grinning at the thought. "You may inspect the villa if you wish, Batiatus, but I assure you I have taken precautions."
He shook his head. His gladiators were not a threat. "I am certain you have. Strike it from worry. Let us see your domus. I am eager to see these tiles you speak of."
She returned her focus to Gannicus. "Your legendary battle with Negrimus has also been lain and depicted."
"You have created my contest with Negrimus in tiles upon your floor?" The gladiator asked, surprised and pleased at this.
"So soon?" Batiatus added.
"I have," Octavia said answering both men's questions.
"This I've got to fucking see," Batiatus said.
"As do I," Gannicus agreed.
"Then let us proceed," the blonde Roman said.
Realizing Gannicus was coming into the villa with them, Lucretia paused, but Gaia took hold of Lucretia's arm, pulling her along. The brunette shook her head at her friend. "Speak it and see husband angry and hostess enraged," Gaia warned. "He is her lover. Accept it with grace, Lucretia, and turn thoughts to a matter you can fix. Such as your father in law."
Lucretia wisely heeded advice and did not make a scene.
They entered the domus through the exedra and traveled through the columned passage of the peristylium which surrounded a large, beautifully tended open aired in-door garden. Within the garden was a seating area located under the shade of the peristylium. In the center of the garden was a marble three-tiered fountain and bird bath with a stone bench set before it to enjoy the peaceful tranquility of the fountain. Surrounding the garden were several statues of Gods, with the focal point being the beautiful Apollo wearing nothing but a wrap around his hips, holding his shield with the lion's head upon it in one hand and his bow in the other. The other was of Mercury, God of commerce and financial gain. He had one hand raised to the heavens as if poised to take flight by way of his winged hat and sandals. In the other hand he carried his herald's staff with two intertwined snakes around it. As they moved along the peristylium, Octavia pointed out some of the other interesting art work located within the garden; specifically mentioning how the statues were all created by one of Rome's premier sculptors.
Gaia nodded in appreciation. "Ettinius' talent in marble knows no bounds. The man is truly gifted."
"Truly," Octavia agreed. "He is Rome's most sought-after sculptor presently, but I have managed to commission him to carve a stone portrait of Gannicus," she informed the group, a pleased smile upon her face.
Taken aback by the information, Gannicus frowned when Octavia made mention of it. "What do you mean?" he asked, disconcerted with this development.
"Ettinius will create a replica of you in marble." She gave him a giddy smile. "It will be glorious."
"What manner of portrait?" Batiatus asked, his interest sparked. "I have desired to have a bust made of him for my hall of champions."
"I can arrange Ettinius to create a bust as well, Batiatus, if it would please."
"It would indeed," the lanista said.
Gannicus noticed she had not answered Batiatus' question. "If not a bust, then what manner of portrait of me have you commissioned?"
"Why, a nude of course," Octavia replied.
Gannicus' eyes widened, and his brows shot up to his hairline, but before he could speak, Batiatus chimed in. "Magnificent. When is the appointment?"
"The first sitting is scheduled for two days hence. I would like to have some initial sketches done before the Apolloinares begin. Several more sittings would have to follow of course. If that is acceptable to you, Quintus?"
Batiatus appreciated her offer and enthusiastically agreed Gannicus would be made available for any appointments she scheduled for him, as long as he got his bust out of the bargain struck.
"Agreed," Octavia said readily.
Gannicus remained silent throughout the exchange. It was unsettling how they spoke of him as if he were not standing beside them. He did not want Octavia to have a nude sculpture of him, but it appeared he had no choice in the matter. It took all his will to keep his dismayed frown from his face as the party continued through the massive domus.
*8*
A/N: Thank you to all of you who take that extra moment to read and then review. A lot of time and work goes into this story; reading the comments make my day and inspire my muse. Gratitude. :)
