In Veritas Memento
Rating: NC 17
Disclaimer: I own nothing. All aspects of Spartacus: Gods of the Arena franchise 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.
A/N: Hello everyone. I know I have been absent this last week or so, but RL just kind of came along and kicked me in the teeth. I do not know why it surprises me. Life never fails to throw trials my way. I should expect it by now, but this one really hurt guys. :(
Ok. Last I spoke to all of you all, my husband, Shane and I were heading to out of town for the most epic romantic holiday of our lives; eight days and seven nights in glorious Paris…and we did that...kind of. We had five amazing days and nights at the Renaissance Republique'… until we got a call from my mother at three am on the 20th telling us that my Nana (who lives with my mom, just three houses down from us) suffered a major stroke and was in ICU! Needless to say, Shane and I cut our trip short and immediately flew home to be there for my Nana and my mom. Well, sadly, on the 26th my Nana, the amazing Sarah T. passed away due to the complications of her stroke—she was 95 and my super hero! It was a terrible-terrible thing losing her and we just had the funeral yesterday.
Needless to say, it has been extremely difficult time for my family, so please understand why I have not been here. I truly appreciate all the PMs you have all sent me. WOW! In fact, I am quite astounded at the amount of love and concern so many of my friends here have shown me in your messages regarding my well-being. Thank you so very much! :D Kat, Jenna, Taz, Sheba, Sheri, Summer and Vik...all of you have sent me pms and I truly appreciate your thoughts. You gals all made my day when I read your messages. :)
Also, I am not abandoning my story. As you can see I have a new chapter right here. This story is my escape right now, so gratitude to all of you for sharing my sorrow presently. I cannot tell you how much your warm wishes are helping to bring me out of the depression I felt myself sinking into! :) This commitment will help keep me focused, so again…gratitude everyone. I hope you enjoy this latest chapter. :)
Whew! Ok. So, enough from me. Without further ado… the next chapter of IVM.
*8*
Chapter 56: malum quo communius eo peius: The more common an evil, the worse it is
Palatine Hill: Aurelius Domus.
Luckily, Gannicus was blessed with a natural athleticism, so it took him no time at all to become adept at maintaining his balance in a chariot as it careened wildly around Octavia's property. In fact, in less than an hour's practice, he was able to stand upright, keep proper footing and fire an arrow with deadly accuracy at his target with the chariot moving at top speed; a remarkable feat according to his instructor.
Gannicus was pleased, despite the ribbing he'd received from his brother's when he was forced to mount the chariot in his costume, harp and all, he had succeeded in his mission and was certain he could present a replication of Apollo's attack on the python of Delphi without embarrassing either himself or his hosts.
After the lesson, Gannicus had been allowed to resume gladiator training. Batiatus was waiting for him when he returned to the arena dressed in his gladiator gear rather than his costume.
"Gannicus," Quintus said, clapping a hand on his champion's shoulder, "I want you to be prepared for anything thrown at you this match. You will be fighting three men, so I want you to spar with both Duratius and Barca today." The lanista looked serious. "I have already instructed them to try and take you out by any means necessary." He shrugged. "Are you up to the task?"
Gannicus grinned, his blood sizzling at the thought. "I am," he said with a cocky smirk. "But Dominus...are you certain you want to use any means necessary. I would hate to leave you two men short at the games," he added with a wink.
"Any means necessary for them, not you," he clarified.
"Ah, so I am to take it easy on them then?" the blond said with a laugh, watching as his brothers frowned at his comment.
Barca and Duratius both had a few choice words in reply and Gannicus was still chuckling softly as he grabbed his two swords in preparation for training. He was just entering the arena when he noticed a tall blond man and petite blonde woman approaching from Aurelius'' domus. They were dressed as nobles and obviously of the patrician class and Batiatus immediately set out to greet them.
The gladiator watched as his Dominus bent and bowed over their hands, brown-nosing noble arse in the rabid manner that was becoming all-too familiar when Batiatus he was trying to cull favor from a Roman peer. The gladiator heard the name "Severus" mentioned as Batiatus cheerfully led the man towards the arena and surmised the tall Roman engaged in conversation with his Dominus must be Octavia's brother; the one she said did not appreciate her "love" of gladiators. Perfect, the Celt thought wondering if Severus knew of his "relationship" with Octavia. He stepped aside and made for the water barrel, allowing Baca and Duratius to spar in the center of the ring; he decided it might be best to stay out of the Roman's way, lest he draw attention to himself and become a target for the man's ire.
Octavia feared her brother. Gannicus had no desire to discover firsthand why.
*8*
Later that afternoon:
After nearly a full day of shopping at the Trajan Market, the women returned to Octavia's domus in high spirits. All three of the noble ladies had acquired new tunics, stolas and pallas for the festival. Lucretia was exceptionally pleased with the tunics of finely woven silk Octavia had insisted she purchase; the fabric was so soft, it caressed the flesh and made Lucretia feel extremely sensual; she could not wait to show them to Quintus and feel his hands on her while wearing them!
The new stolas were also made of a beautiful fabric. Egyptian linen. The wonderful texture and color thrilled Lucretia; she had bought two: one in a gorgeous shade of rose and another in a deep and flattering shade of jade. Octavia and Gaia had indulged as well, with Octavia choosing a dress of vibrant purple while Gaia's was a brilliant shade of aquamarine.
The entire wardrobe selected was incredible, and Lucretia was excited for Quintus to see her newest acquirements. She barely contained her joy. He always loved to approve of her choices and show that appreciation in many lovely, arousing ways. Perhaps she would ask him to view her purchases now and retire to their room for a bit.
Gaia, watching her friend, giggled. "Do you not look like the cat about to eat the cream? If I did not know it is only your husband's cock that gets you so excited…I might be more excited at the flush upon your face," she said with a wink.
Lucretia rolled her eyes. "It has nothing to do with Quintus," she said, brazenly fibbing. "I am merely excited to try on our wigs," she said.
Gaia nodded in approval. "I have to admit," she said, leaning in to Lucretia. "I am looking forward to seeing you and Octavia in them as well. I am certain you will both be breathtaking."
The wigs were exquisite. Made of real human hair, Lucretia and Octavia had obtained the matching wigs (near jet black in color much like Gaia's natural hair color) from an exclusive forum in Trajan that catered to an very exclusive clientele. They had decided they would wear them together (along with their new stolas) on opening day. Moreover, it was agreed Gaia would wear her hair au 'natural, and the three of them would make quite the grand appearance as a exotic brunette threesome in their bright new robes and matching hairstyles for the first day of ceremonies.
After they arrived at the domus, Octavia ordered some wine and asked for their purchases to be brought to their rooms. As the women were making their way towards the triclinium, talking and giggling while they discussed the excitement of the ceremonies on the morrow, they were stopped when a booming male laugh cut through their chatter.
Octavia froze, her green eyes going wide and then wary as she halted mid-stride. "That cannot be," she said more to herself than to her companions.
Her words may not have been meant for them, but Octavia's companions stopped as well, and Lucretia heard Quintus' answering laughter coming from the triclinium. It was forced and too cheery. She recognized that laugh. It was the one he used when trying to impress and/or gain approval. Obviously, whoever Quintus was with was someone he was desperate to please.
Gaia turned to Octavia, obviously concerned as the blonde paled before their eyes. "'Tavia, what is it?"
Octavia's lip curled as she looked to her friend. "You do not recognize his laugh?" When Gaia only looked more confused, the blonde snorted. "Perhaps you were telling the truth then when you said you did not truly care for him."
Gaia's dark eyes widened. "Lucius?" she whispered, shivers running up her spine. Gaia well remembered her last night with the man—it was not a memory she ever wanted to think of or share ever! She would focus on Octavia's issues with the reprobate rather than her own.
Unbeknownst of her friend's fear, Octavia gave a brief nod; her pallor told the tale of how excited she was to realize her brother was in her domus as well.
Lucretia utterly missed Gaia's look of distaste because she was busy trying to sort out why Octavia seemed so hesitant to see her brother. Sure, the man had a reputation as a ruthless soldier, but why would that make his sister wary? It was a mystery. One Lucretia made a note to ask Gaia about at a later time.
More laughter could be heard coming from the triclinium and Octavia seemed to gather her strength. "Well, let us go and greet my brother, yes? I am certain he has his reasons for arriving at my door rather than his own."
And with those words, she pressed her shoulders back and marched forward, putting on a pleasant, charming smile that, to anyone not paying attention, would have appeared genuine and not the façade it was.
Lucretia gave Gaia a questioning glance to which Gaia simply shook her head and mouthed "later" before they followed after their hostess, a tad wary after seeing Octavia's reaction.
*8*
Inside the triclinium, Batiatus was busy working his audience. He craved the kind of power and respectability that Severus was born into; and as far as Quintus was concerned, Lucius Severus was a man to be emulated and revered. He was an Imperator for the Roman Legions; a dedicated and decorated war hero who had served as Sulla's right hand. He was also a future Senator. His father, Octavius' seat was still vacant. Once Severus decided to leave the Army, his father's seat in the senate would be his; with his military connections and future senatorial position, Lucius Severus wielded a tremendous amount of power.
Quintus coveted what Lucius Severus could offer and fervently sought the man's approval and backing. Having a respected man like Severus in his corner could make or break Batiatus' future aspirations of a political career.
As always, he used his gladiators to make himself more interesting and important than he actually was.
"Once you see my champion Gannicus in the arena," he said, his voice carrying all the confidence he felt in his champion, "you will not want another to represent your family in the Romani."
"So, I keep hearing," Severus said, his attention drifting between the two slaves having intercourse as entertainment on the furs before him and the lanista eager to hawk his gladiators.
Severus clapped his hands to gain the slaves' attention. "You there. Cease fucking!"
The dark-haired man, one of Claudius' strapping young house slaves, paused in his thrusting and turned to the Roman, his face strained from his exertions. "Dominus?"
"Place her on her hands and knees and take her from behind."
Severus waited for the young man to cede to his directive before turning back to Quintus. "I must say, Batiatus, your man Gannicus seems to have captured the Republic's attention. And not just in Rome."
Lucius watched, his eyes drifting back and forth from the muscular slave fucking the petite blonde, to Quintus, who was also watching the two slaves, sitting forward eagerly on the couch, his excitement evident in how he licked his lips as he watched the two.
"Gannicus is a true celebrity," Batiatus said, his eyes focused on where the male slave's cock was moving in and out of the blonde's slave's vagina; it was displayed so perfectly directly in front of him, he found it hard to tear his eyes away
Lucius chuckled softly, sipping his wine as the male slave started hammering into the blonde beneath him, his hips snapping forward into the woman's arse cheeks, the slapping sound of flesh on flesh became quite loud in the triclinium as the couple became more and more carried away.
"Your gladiator was mentioned in Pompeii just last month," Severus said, regaining Batiatus' attention.
"Pompeii you say?"
"Yes, when I stopped in for a few days of rest before I completed my latest campaign. I heard he beat Negrimus in a match that was the longest in Capua's recorded history. Is that true?"
Talk of Gannicus' success easily drew Batiatus' attention completely away from the slaves and their rather excitable fucking. Quintus was an opportunist first and expounding on his champion's success was far more worthwhile venture than watching two slaves have intercourse!
"The rumors are true," Quintus confirmed with a nod. "Gannicus battled Negrimus just four minutes shy of the full hora (hour). It is the longest match in Capua's recorded history!" he added with a smirk.
Severus leaned forward and plucked a few grapes from the tray in front of him. "That is right fucking impressive, Batiatus," he said. "Are all your gladiators so talented?"
"I have two of my best men along with Gannicus here in Rome," Quintus informed the other man. "Barca, the Beast of Carthage is a hoplomachus, unparalleled with a spear. And Duratius, the Egyptian Executioner is lethal with his axe. Both men are beasts in the arena, but they each fall to Gannicus." Batiatus leaned forward, placing his hands on his knees. "My champion is a fucking true God among men in the arena," he said quietly, but with passion. "And you can mark my words now…his name will be whispered far and wide across the entirety of the Republic after the Apolloinares…" He sat back and his face split into a cheeky grin. "I can tell you this in the utmost confidence, Gannicus will be the next champion of Rome. The only matter at hand today is do you want to purchase his services for the Romani at the price I am offering presently or after he beats Argonaut?"
Lucius paused, his handsome face tightening at being pressed in such a manner and Batiatus gulped, silently hoping he hadn't pressed too far, but then the blond Roman began to chuckle before he threw his head back and let out a booming laugh.
Severus appreciated Batiatus' fervor and confidence.
"I see the rumors regarding your cheek were not exaggerated," Lucius said, still chuckling softly. "Very well, Batiatus," the blonde Roman said. "I will take a closer look at your gladiator and let you know before the primus whether I will be requesting Gannicus for the Romani." He winked. "Will that still get me the discount price of today's offering?"
"It would," Quintus said, sipping at his wine, his face flushed with pleasure from the manner in which his inducement of acquiring another Severus patronage had taken. "In fact—"
Quintus' reply was cut short when the curtain suddenly parted and Octavia strode through the golden drapes, her body slave Anya trailed after her followed by Gaia and Lucretia as well as Melitta and Gaia's body slave, Ivanka.
Melitta, seeing the couple on the floor having rather rough and wild sex, turned away from the sight, a dark flush staining her cheeks as she was forcefully reminded of her own experience with Gannicus. Her on her hands and knees with Gannicus behind her taking her just as roughly. It was both an arousing and shameful memory…
*8*
The gladiator's quarters:
After barely two hours' worth of training, Gannicus returned to his quarters with Barca and Duratius.
The blond gladiator immediately began to untie his manicae complaining of his exhaustion and the trying day he'd had.
Barca and Duratius exchanged looks and rolled their eyes at their brother.
"You fucking jest, right?" the Beast snorted, clapping a hand on Duratius' shoulder as they shared in the laughter. "You spent most of your day in Rome and when you returned, you rode around in a chariot for a hora before you even picked up sword and began to train!"
"And let's not forget," Duratius added, "you rode into town being carried in a litter with your Roman Goddess at hand to ride or suck your cock along the way…" He winked at Barca. "Juno's cunt, Gannicus! If that's your idea of exhaustive work, let me put my name to the task and relieve you of your burden, brother."
Gannicus ignored his brothers' teasing and sent the two of them a rather colorful two fingered salute that let them know what he thought of their ribbing. They had no idea how mentally tiring it was to cater to the Romans. Perhaps posing for a damned stone portrait was not as physically taxing as training with a sword, but his muscles ached from having to hold utterly still for hours in uncomfortable and disconcerting positions. Not to mention the ordeal of having the little sculptor peer at his naked body in an up-close manner that was more than a tad unnerving. He had never in his life, even when he was sold at auction, had a man stare at his cock with such unflinching attention!
Yes. His day had brought about an entirely new and different kind of exertion, perhaps not the physical activity he was used to, but Gannicus was tired just the same.
He wanted nothing more than to bathe, retreat to his room and fall to his bed.
But a quick trip to his bed was not meant to be.
Gannicus was on his way to the bathing chamber when one of the Roman soldiers Batiatus had hired as guards came into the gladiators' villa. He called the three gladiators forth. "Get bathed and prepared for private viewing. You have all been summoned."
Behind him were three slave girls. "They're here to oil and scent you. Make it quick, your Dominus is waiting."
And with that, the man turned abruptly on his heel and left.
Duratius looked towards the three pretty slave girls and a huge grin broke out of his face. "Finally, the Gods fucking bless me," he said, stepping forward. He took the hand of a beautiful blonde slave. "Come love. You have no idea how much help I need oiling my parts…" As he led the slave girl towards the bath chamber, Duratius grinned at his brothers' over his shoulder, wagging his brows lewdly.
Gannicus rolled his eyes so hard at Duratius' words and actions, it was a miracle they were not permanently facing backwards!
Barca chuckled huskily. "Do not look so offended brother. I have heard similar words fall from your own lips when seeking opportunity to lie between a comely women's thighs."
Realizing Barca spoke true. Gannicus grinned. "Perhaps," he admitted with a shrug. "But please fucking tell me I did not look so indecently smug."
"You? Smug? Never," Barca deadpanned, then burst into a fit of laughter and Gannicus' scowl. "Please brother. Cease words before Jupiter smites you for your hypocrisy, mistakenly ending me as well for being in the near proximity!"
Gannicus flipped him a rude finger gesture to which Barca returned with a two fingered response of his own.
Just then grunts and groans and the wet slapping sounds of skin hitting skin could be heard from the bathing chamber inside the villa. Gannicus and Barca shared a resigned but knowing glance. Duratius was obviously fucking the blonde slave—and quite loudly too.
"Now all I can imagine is oiled body parts slapping together," Barca said with a frown.
Gannicus grimaced at that imagery. "And on that fucking note, let us agree to never speak of a brothers' oiled parts again. Yes?"
Barca chuckled. "Agreed," he said.
The men headed towards their rooms to get their belongings in preparation for their bath, the two slave girls trailing after them; both gladiators moved a tad slower than usual, giving Duratius some privacy before joining him in the bathing chamber.
*8*
Inside the villa:
Octavia's face was a careful mask of noble pleasantry as she faced her brother. "Are we interrupting the entertainment?" she asked, her gaze going to the two slaves panting and fucking on the furs of her triclinium; she scowled when she recognized Claudius' some time lover Hector as the man fucking the woman. She would not have allowed him to be chosen had she been present, but there was nothing she could do about it now. The deed was done. She could only hope he was finished before her husband arrived home.
"Ahh, my dearest sister." Lucius said, flashing a blinding smile at Octavia. "Finally, you arrive." His eyes took note of Gaia and Lucretia, lingering appreciatively on both women. "And you come bearing such beauteous gifts."
"Lucius," Octavia replied, a warm smile forced upon lips wanting to scowl. "You arrive earlier than expected."
"You know me, dear sister, I rarely do what is expected of me." His smile did not quite reach his eyes. "Thank the Gods for Batiatus here," he said, nodding his head towards Batiatus, "he has endeavored to see me entertained in your absence."
Batiatus grinned, near to blushing so pleased was he with Severus' compliment. "Ah, your words honor me and are far too kind. I am just a simple lanista."
While Quintus' words were humble, his chest puffed up like a rooster and it was obvious Batiatus was quite proud of himself in the moment; Lucretia took note of the man her husband was obviously trying to impress. Severus was extremely handsome. Tall and blond with a strong, square Roman jaw and a full sensuous mouth; however, there was a coldness in his dark green eyes that chilled her to the bone.
Lucretia rarely felt nervous around men, she found them so easy to manipulate to ever be truly intimidated, but Lucius Severus made her uneasy and judging both Gaia's and Octavia's reactions (both women had paled considerably upon seeing him), she had good cause to be wary of the man.
Octavia offered Batiatus a smile. "Gratitude Quintus for seeing to my brother in my absence. It is most appreciated."
Quintus flushed further at his hostess' praise. "Happy to oblige. Think nothing of it."
Octavia's gaze went to the two nude slaves engaged in coitus. "How long have they been at this?" she asked, nervous about having Hector involved in such activities. She could not have Claudius walk in on his slaves being treated in such a manner. Octavia was quite certain Claudius would lose fucking mind to see his slaves being debased in any fashion.
Severus snapped his fingers at the slaves still fucking in the middle of the room. "You may cease and desist," he told the slaves. "But remain hard. We may yet require your services." He chuckled wickedly. "Let us see how long he can maintain his erection," he said to Batiatus, a cruel smirk upon his lips.
Octavia ignored her brother's remarks. She simply wanted the young brunette slave gone before her husband came home. Instead she focused on her brother's early arrival. "Is there a reason you arrive before you stated in your earlier communications?" she asked, maintaining her composure. "I was led to believe you would be attending the gladiatorial games only, so I did not foresee you making an appearance until later this week. Apologies, but was I wrong in assuming such a thing?"
"Not entirely." Lucius shrugged as he rose from his reclining position upon one of the couches. "I like to keep you on your toes, dearest." He took Octavia's hand and placed a lingering kiss there. "Surely, you should know that by now."
Octavia inclined her head, acknowledging his words and Luscious soon turned his attention to Gaia and Lucretia. "Gaia! It has been too long since I have set gaze upon your beauty." He took Gaia's hand and kissed it in much the same manner as he had Octavia's. "And who is this lovely flower?"
Octavia discreetly wiped her hand on her robes once her brother's gaze was set elsewhere.
"Lucius, still as charming as ever," Gaia said, giggling. To anyone who knew her, it was apparent her laughter was a bit forced. Tugging her hand free as soon as it was polite to do so, the brunette introduced him to Lucretia. "This is my dearest friend from Capua. Lucretia, wife of Batiatus."
Severus took Lucretia's hand and bowed over it. "Ah Lucretia…such a rare beauty you are." The Roman glanced towards Batiatus. "You failed to mention how exquisite your wife is, Batiatus."
Quintus preened and winked at his wife. "A most negligent transgression to be sure. One I would rectify presently and be so bold as to suggest Venus herself would weep in envy at the loveliness of all the women in this room. I feel blessed by the fucking Gods that I'm allowed to even witness such perfection!"
Batiatus' outrageous boast had the desired affect and had the other Romans chucking in response, this eased some of the tension in the room.
Severus released Lucretia's hand and retook his position while Octavia quickly claimed the remaining empty couch and tugged Gaia down with her before ordering more wine and food to be brought forth.
"Speaking of beauty," Lucius said as he picked up his wine glass, "Batiatus has summoned his gladiators." His gaze went to Octavia and settled his unwavering gaze upon her. "I understand they are most…" his smile was twisted and cold, "impressive."
Lucretia sat next to her husband, but her eyes were on Octavia and her curiosity grew as she took note of the women's reactions to her brother. At Severus' words, their hostess bit her lip and went even paler. Lucretia could not help but wonder why Octavia seemed to abhor her own brother? Knowledge was power, and Lucretia was determined to unravel the mystery, especially if such information could help Quintus improve his position amongst them.
When Octavia remained silent for too long, Gaia chimed in, rescuing her. "Oh, they are most impressive, especially Gannicus." She deliberately fanned herself. "The man is a sexy beast."
As Gaia hoped, Lucius turned his icy gaze from his sister to her. "Have you fucked him then?" It was asked so casually, one might think Severus did not find it uncommon, but the tightening of his jaw spoke volumes regarding his distaste. His frosty jade gaze stayed on Gaia, waiting for her answer.
Gaia burst into giggles. "Why Lucius! What a dirty mind you have. Why ever would you think such a thing?"
Lucius shrugged, but did not look away. "That is not an answer," he pointed out.
"Then let me make it clear," Gaia replied, shaking her head in answer. "No. I'm not the one who has fucked that handsome gladiator." Octavia stiffened next to her but Gaia took her hand in hers, settling her friend before she could react badly. The brunette Roman flashed a sultry smile at Severus. "The one who has had that beautiful animal between her thighs is her…" She pointed to Melitta.
There were several reactions to Gaia's words.
Lucretia's eyes widened, and she shot her friend a shocked and somewhat angry glance at putting her body slave in the middle of whatever was going on between Octavia and her brother.
Octavia's jealousy nearly overrode her good sense for a moment as she sucked in a sharp breath and turned on Gaia, as if to argue that fact; however, Gaia pinched the blonde on her upper arm before she could hurl any angry words and make a scene, giving herself away. The brunette then produced a small vial from a pocket within her robes and sprinkled some opium into Octavia's wine. "Drink this and ease mood, Octavia!" she hissed in the other woman's ear. "Best he sets malevolent gaze on her rather than you."
Octavia accepted both the reminder as well as the opium with a grateful nod. "Apologies," she whispered.
"None required. Now behave." Gaia gave Octavia a penetrating glance. "Especially when he gets here," she added sternly.
While both Octavia and Gaia were relieved, Melitta had an altogether different reaction. She felt no gratitude to Gaia at all and her face blazed with color as the Roman man leveled his sinister green eyes on her curiously, licking his full lips as he roamed her figure with his snake-like gaze.
"Interesting," Severus said, taking inventory of her face and form. "So, she is his lover then?"
"Melitta has been paired with Gannicus in the past, yes," Batiatus admitted, ignoring Lucretia's elbow to his side. He pushed it away. "He has had other partners too. The man fucks like he fights—vigorously," Batiatus said with a chuckle.
And if the situation was not full of enough drama…to further complicate an already complicated situation, at that moment, Gannicus, Duratius and Barca were escorted into the triclinium, they were oiled and scented and wearing nothing but their white subligarias.
*8*
Lucius Severus had not become Cornelius Sulla's right hand by being unobservant. He was a man who looked for the subtleties in people's reactions in order to gauge what a person tried to hide rather than what they wanted revealed.
He had noted his sister's indrawn breath when Gaia mentioned Gannicus. He also noted the lusty darkening of Octavia's eyes as she set her gaze upon the blond gladiator's muscular physique. In addition, the handsome gladiator seemed torn between focusing his attention on Octavia and the beautiful brunette slave Gaia said was his lover. Never a fool, Lucius' personal knowledge relating to his sister's preferences, convinced him that Octavia had (against his wishes) fucked Batiatus' champion. However, the gladiator's response was intriguing. The heat in his eyes when he looked to the dark-haired body slave was palpable and, if Lucius was reading his sister correctly—and he was certain he was—he was sure Octavia was well aware of the deep desire her lover had for this Melitta and did not care for it.
Lucius nearly clapped his hands in glee. This interesting development added an entirely new layer to his entertainment… The only question in mind was how he would use the information through the present situation against Octavia. He wanted to break her down and force her back in line and he had no qualms about using her gladiator lover in whatever manner he deemed fit to achieve his goals. However, he had better do so quickly before fucking Claudius arrived and spoiled any fun he might have at his sister's expense!
He pointed to Melitta. "Since you've already had the champion's cock, perhaps you'd prefer another…" His gaze perused the other two gladiators with the blond champion and settled on Duratius. "How about this one? He appears a strapping lad. Let her fuck this one," he said, turning to Batiatus.
And with those words, Gannicus' entire world spun wildly, twisting into something disturbing and grotesque at the imagery of Duratius fucking Melitta!
*8*
End notes:
Lucius is a terrible person, I know. Not sure who is worse, Lucius or Tullius…guess we will just have to wait and see who the bigger villain is, yeah? :) Again, thank you to everyone who sent me messages asking about my health and well-being. Your concern wared my heart. :) Especially during such a terrible ordeal. It was your caring that brought me back here so quickly. Gratitude. I will be sending out response pms tomorrow as I edit the next chapter. :)
Alright, so click that button ya'll and leave me some love now yeah? Reviews are delicious cookies to my muse. :)
