The Eagle Falls

[Lady_Mornington]

Flavia Procopia Aurelia

Flavia merely nodded as Marcus had her swear secrecy with regards to their liason. It was not that she intended this to come even to this, but sensing the way her father held her as well as the reaction that it provoked in her made her all the more ready to continue. Gently disentangling herself from his embrace and pulling the pins from the shoulders of her dress before sliding it down her slender body.

She could feel Marcus's eyes trailing over her naked frame, causing her to blush, as he gently caressed her arm and pulled her into an embrace and another kiss. Flavia responded in kind, running her hands down his back as he rolled her over on her back. His arousal fuelling her own and she could feel herself getting ever more moist as his weight pressed her down on the soft sleeping couch.

Once more she felt the blush colouring her cheeks and she bit her lower lip as her eyes sought his. For all her airs of sophistication Flavia was still relatively inexperienced in matters sexual. There had of course been the marital obligations to her late husband, but apart from that there had been none. She could sense his wordless question as he lay still, gently stroking her cheeks with his thumbs, seemingly ready to stop his ministrations at any moment. It was so very different from Flavius. Whereas her husband had aspired to become a military hero, Tata was one. Where Flavius had thought that brute force had to be empolyed in every aspect of life, Tata seemingly shied away from it. There was also the difference in appearence, Flavius had been soft, having lived a pampered life in Rome, whereas Tata had served so many years in military camps and on campaign. The way he was now touching her belied his fierce appeearence, and for the first time Flavia felt truely precious.

She lay back, spreading her legs somewhat more to allow him to enter her. Her emerald eyes partly obscured by her heavy, dark lashes. She tensed up as she felt his hardness against her tender folds, and then the slight push that took him inside her. A small gasp escaped her as she felt herself stretch around him.

Flavia kept looking into his eyes as they found the rhythm, each thrust of his hips met by one of hers, sending ripples of pleasures through her body. She pulled his face closer to her own, her lips parted as she kissed him again. She could sense that he was holding back, as if her pleasure was more important than that of his, Flavia was not used to such care being lavished on her. Her late husband had seen to his own needs, in his career as well as within the confines of the bedroom. Meeting his gaze again, asking silently for confirmation and receiving it with the merest nod and yet another kiss as he pushed deeper inside of her.

Running her fingers through his shortly cropped hair as she responded to his kiss, clenching herself around him as she felt the first tingles of a climax running through her. Her father's ministrations became more intense and with a final thrust he brought her over the edge, causing a soft cry to escape her as she felt every muscle in her body tense up and then how the tension broke in what felt like pure bliss. Marcus' climax followed suit, deposing his offerings inside her and with a muffled grunt collapsing ontop of her.

They lay in silence, the creaking of the sleeping couch being the only sound as he withdrew and pulled her into aonther embrace. Their breating slowly subsiding from the laboured state of their coupling as the chill of the room slowly became apparent and making Flavia shiver.

She could sense yet another question, one that Tata seemed loath to ask but which was still looming, and she guessed what it would be. Kissing him again before speaking softly.

"You needn't worry Tata, I'm barren.."

She left the sentence unfinished, the pain of her inability to bear children still an open wound. She guessed that Flavius would probably have divorced her had he not died on campaign. He had at least two bastards, and even though Flavia didn't harbour them any ills, the notion that they existed irked her. If nothing else it underlined her own incapabilities and it pained her , that even if she never could have professed to love her husband, that she had not been able to give him an heir.

Wiping the tears away from her eyes and moved closer to him as he pulled the covers up. "Why does my brother hate me so much Tata?" She wasn't sure why she'd asked but in that moment she once again felt like she had done when she had grown up under the constant barrage of Marcus Secundus' accusations and slights. She knew that her father had more pressing matters to attend to, and that she oughtn't linger too long lest someone got curious. Kissing him again as she got up and draped the dress around her again.

"Will I see you tomorrow...?"

Flavia bit her lip again as she looked for confirmtion and receiving it with a nod and a smile. She leaned down to kiss him, demurely at first but not before long finding herself sharing a most passionate one, before she quietly left him. Walking through the main room to her own quarters. Undressing before gently sliding down next to the sleeping shape of Fredegund. The Germanii princess seemed to be fast asleep but stirred as Flavia lay down next to her. Acting more on instinct than premediated, she slid her arm around the girl's waist and gently stroked her golden curls with her other.

"Go back to sleep sister."

 

[magbeam]

Marcus Procopius Elafius Aquila

Marcus held his breath as Flavia nodded once. A part of him had hoped that she would find herself unable to agree to his terms, or that the demand would awaken her to what she would be agreeing to do. Yet a larger part had feared her response to his question for the same reasons, and it was that part of Marcus' inner thoughts that won. Far from pulling away in sudden shock or disgust, his daughter merely undid the pins holding her inner tunica, sliding the thin shift down over her body. It was as demure as an act of the type ever could be, for his daughter was certainly no tramp; but Marcus was as transfixed as if she had been a well-trained hetaira of the type that Secundus no doubt consorted with whenever he had a spare solidus or ten.

Marcus felt as if her were a virgin again, in the nighttime fields behind the family villa outside of Isca with the slavegirl, Elen. The girl had actually been older than he, and had a reputation for promiscuity among the males of both the family and staff, and was of course extremely beautiful and willing - which, to a boy just discovering his ascension to manhood, and the difficult urgings it produced, created a combination hard to resist. Of course, Flavia was as different from the long-dead Elen as could be; she was much younger, her beauty different (if no less), and certainly more chaste. No, what made him think to that much-happier time, when his father and brothers were still alive and with him and when a fire lit to warm a pair of young lovers would not betray their position to marauders from beyond Ocean, was the sense of...revitalization he experienced, of exploring someone new and frail and all the more precious for it. Of loving the one thing in his world that was still pure.

Flavia was so soft and innocent and beautiful under the flicking light of the lamp, his fingers tracing over her skin, their mouths meeting for passionate kisses as he positioned himself, her willingly spreading beneath him, as if responding to urges he could not have vocalized, even now. Marcus had wondered for a second if she might be a virgin herself; however, his cursory explorations disproved that. Marcus should have known better; a man such as his former son-in-law would not have let his marriage remain unconsummated.

Flavius hailed from a rich and important family, patricians dating back from when the word had actually meant something. The marriage had been useful politically and financially, and became even moreso when he accepted Flavius onto his staff, thus providing his family even more incentive to support their son. The boy had not been a horrible officer; his biggest setback had been his impulsiveness, his desire to make himself on the battle. He had been blinded by ambition, and it had come to no surprise to Marcus that he had died, like so many other men both deserving and not, in that final battle at Arelate against the usurper Constantinus.

But no matter. Marcus had thought little of the death then, and thought less of it now. It had freed his Flavia to return to him, given him this bittersweet opportunity. And the presence of a maidenhead meant nothing to him. Flavia would always be the innocent for him. He would never let anything change that, never treat her like it was not true. Even as he slowly kissed and stroked her, his member thrusting within her gently but with increasing need, the sweat dripping from his chest onto her own impossibly smooth, girlish one, he never thought of her as anything less than the innocent love that he would die to prevent coming to harm. She rippled and clamped hard around him, the sweet music of her climax in his ears, and Marcus soon joined her, never having felt closer to her, or to any woman.

As they lay on the couch afterwards, Marcus leisurely stroking the cooling daughter he held his arms, she voiced the answer to his unspoken question, her despair obvious. She sniffled, tears glistening in the soft light, and he pulled her closer, his heart breaking for her.

"Oh, my Flavia. My poor girl." He stroked her hair gently, letting her rest her head on his chest. The hurt coming from her was palpable. What was selfish relief that he need not worry about quickening her when it was laid against her knowledge that she would forever be denied the joys of children? And though, even as close as they had just been and continued to be he could not say it, he knew that he would have treasured Flavia's offspring above any of his other grandchildren. Even if familiar duty did not prevent him, Marcus thought that that might only cause her more grief.

Yet more grief seemed to be on her mind, even as Flavia dried her tears. Marcus considered her question. Once more, familiar loyalty would prevent him from speaking. Yet she was clearly in grief, and had not Marcus just vowed to himself he would gladly die than see her hurt?

"Your brother is an ambitious men, and like all ambitious men, hate what they cannot have." He smiled, cupping her chin. "Which, in this case, is the love I have for you, my dear Flavia." He brought her forward for another kiss, this one as tender as any kiss could be. His tone turned regretful. "As much as I would like to spend the night with you, it would be unwise. Perhaps...someday. But not now."

He sadly watched her dress, wishing he could prolong the moment forever, that no matter how many liaisons they had in the future, no other one would be their first. Marcus happily promised that they would see each other the next day, wishing her a fair night. He was silent as he watched her leave, only then allowing himself a sigh of happiness. His gaze turned to the scrolls he had put down when she had entered. It was later than ever, yet that had to get done. Picking them up, reluctantly, he nevertheless finished through his work more pleased than an old doomed man had any right to be.

The next morning, he woke earlier than ever. It was a conundrum, how that seemed to happen: the less sleep he had, the earlier his body wanted to awaken. A soldier's instincts, of course. Mago was already up, sharing watered wine with Amfitre, by the time Marcus left his room, clothed for the day. He spoke to Amfitre.

"Tell Flavia I'm sorry that I wasn't able to stay for breakfast. It will be a busy enough day, even with this head start. Tell her to look after our guest - and not to mind her bodyguards - and that I will see her this evening. Hopefully for dinner."

His first stop was the command tent, to drop off the scrolls he had finished reading, get the information from the night watch - little except a delayed courier and a century of recruits that marched the wrong direction for twenty miles - and to make sure the officers would be there for morning briefing. Then, the bathhouse, to get a proper cleaning and wakeup, as well as the exercise he had been missing the past few days. Even his lovemaking with Flavia had left him more winded than he could properly assign to his excitement. Following his bath and exercise, the quartermaster's, for a proper soldier's breakfast of sausage, beans, and posca.

The officers' briefing went as dully as the morning watch report had. Nerva reported that the subsidies had started to arrive and were being stockpiled at the dock under heavy guard to prevent poaching, in preparation for being shipped to the Franks later that week. After the meeting broke up, Scudilio caught up with him.

"Forgive me, General, but might I..." the man's voice trailed off as he looked int he opposite direction, disgust on his face. Marcus knew who it was even before he turned.

"Ah, Secundus, my boy," he said, his son approaching with his usual retinue, the whore and holyman and other Court officials. "Scudilio, please excuse us for a moment. Perhaps you could dismiss your friends as well, my son? Excellent, excellent." Marcus waited until he was strolling as alone with his son as he could be before talking, his voice still even and low.

"I was hoping to discuss this with you over dinner last night, son, but you left so quickly. How are things with you? I hear you are already ingratiating yourself with the local citizenry, a fine thing for any Imperial official to do. However, my legates tell me that your goodwill actions seems rather like raising a private army. A dangerous course for any ranking member of the Imperial service, especially after the troubles among the ambitious officers we've had the past few years. Surely even you in Ravenna have heard of the occasional usurper? Although I'm sure you are up to nothing of the sort, my boy, I will be glad to hear you reassure me that you are not raising a private army."

 

[FazilKotuk]

Marcus Secundus

What did he expect me to do, sit in an empty command tent with no troops and a meaningless rank? He wouldn't give me troops, so I recruited my own, as any man with brains and initiative would do. If he doesn't like it, well, he can take it up with the Emperor who commissioned me, Secundus thought.

"Father, I was commissioned to assume overall command of cavalry in this diocese. To command troops, one must actually have some. Since you thwarted me from having any of the troops in your army, contrary to the Emperor's express orders, I might add, I took the alternative route to finding manpower and avoiding mere figurehead status. I will not be a paper officer, Father. You might not have any respect or faith in my ability, but not everyone shares your contempt and hatred for me. Including the Emperor, the prefect of Italy, the Grand Chamberlain, Master of Offices, Count of the Sacred Largesse, commander of the household troops, the bishop of Rome, and at least half of the Sacred Consistory.

"I might not be an experienced and brilliant tactician like you, but I have my own skills to bring to this war. I need troops to fight the barbarians who invade our Empire. This is not a private army, but it is an elite cavalry force loyal to me and to the Empire. My commission was strictly for cavalry, and I have deliberately kept my numbers small, both to save expenses and to avoid weakening your own army. A consideration for family and the public good that you haven't shown me, I might add.

"Don't think of this as a drain on your resources. Think of this as getting some troublesome brethren of mine out of your hair and put to useful work for a change. They have resented their exclusion from the legions since the imperial purges of non-Christian officers. It's time to bring my brethren and me into the army. Quite a few of my officers are old enough to be your father, so I doubt that you'd have recruited them, given their age and religious persuasion. But they have experience and share a certain understanding of the Cosmos that your officers do not share.

"Before you ask, yes, the entire Court knows my religion and they choose to wink at it, because I am useful to them. As I continue to be by raising a special force to deal with the barbarians and undo the present reverses that have occurred here. Reverses that have displeased the Emperor to no small extent, so much that the eunuch Somnus was sent partly to root out barbarian spies and other real traitors, instead of imagined ones who happen to be loyal friends of the Divine Augustus.

"I know that you resent me for existing, for some reason that escapes me, and show favor to Flavia alone. That doesn't mean that I am worthless to everyone, Father. Just because I am of a different religion and hold less puritanical views on sexual matters, including the keeping of a concubine, who is not a whore, but a loyal companion of mine who knows her place in the social order, doesn't make me less a member of this family, your attempts to disown and disgrace me notwithstanding. And, just so you know, I would marry this woman if she were of my station, so as I said, she's not a whore and I resent the implication that she is one.

"I don't know why Flavia hates me, but I have a message for her as well. Just because she is a frigid prig, doesn't mean that everyone is. Not everyone who refuses to wed is a boy-lover or immature for it. To quote her, my marital status is 'no concern' of hers. I wish that neither of you despised me, but I suppose that it's too late to expect proper, filial love from any of my family. Now, if you'll excuse me, you sabotaged me by ordering me on a subsidies oversight assignment, so I now have to accompany your lackey Scudillo on said journey," Secundus saluted and spoke with an icy glare directed at the father whom he believed hated him.

 

[magbeam]

Marcus Procopius Elafius Aquila

Marcus kept himself impassive throughout Secundus' long-winded tirade, until the end when it descended into a bout of self-pity. Marcus was of the opinion that a man should take responsibility for his actions and never take the opportunity to blame others for his misfortunes, or even to show such levels of pity, yet there was something about his son's words that stirred something other than annoyance within him. It was clear the boy felt himself neglected by the rest of his family, something Marcus felt he might have contributed somewhat to, even if he disagreed wholeheartedly with the boy's opinions. A touch of sympathy and sadness fell onto his features as he looked into his son's angry face, his hand coming to rest on the boy's shoulders.

"Secundus, how can you say such things? You are the oldest child of my first wife and my only son. Of course I love you. And how can you say I show no favor to you? I have gone so far out of my way for you. I always knew the life of a soldier was not yours - I do not mean to thrust the knife in deeper here, only to explain. You were always such a bright young lad, so inquisitive and devoted. You had ambition and talent even then. You deserved better. I arranged you to be sent to Rome to enter into the service of the State, a move that cost me considerably in terms of both money and clout. It is because I loved you and wanted a good life for you, Secundus, that you are now in this fine position of wealth and influence."

Marcus looked around, making sure no one else was near. Scudilio was still hovering respectfully just out of hearing range, and the others were no closer. Good. It would have been bad enough for them to hear what he just said, and he certainly wanted no one else to hear what he had to say next. Marcus stepped closer to his son and continued talking.

"Now, about your sister. You may have different mothers but you are both siblings, and I am sure she loves you. I might remind you that it was in response to the position your appointment at Rome put me that I was forced to marry her off to Flavius. You are correct, your relations are no concern of hers, and I will inform her so. But by the same token, hers are no matter of yours, son, and you will treat your sister with the respect that she deserves if for no other reason you both are of me. You will also cease your inflammatory remarks regarding her. This bickering of yours will end now. For the sake of God, man, you say you are a great man of the Empire? Act like it!"

Marcus had grown slightly red in the face, but forced himself to calm down. He didn't want to make things worse after trying to heal the rift. Still, the boy's self pity was grating, especially when it was combined with petty sniping at his sister for imaginary offenses.

"Now," he continued more calmly. "Perhaps I was mistaken about your companion. I will attempt to be more civil to her in the future, but I expect the same from you in return. As for your subsidies assignment...Scudilio, come over here." Once the legate arrived, standing stiffly while looking at Secundus, Marcus continued.

"Scudilio, inform Nerva that while he will be in charge of delivering the subsidies and of the men and ships that will transport them, Count Secundus will have full diplomatic authority over the expedition. That is all."

Once Scudilio had left, Marcus turned his attention back to Secundus. "You want to help the Empire? This is your chance. Not all acts of service to the State are glamorous actions, not all victories are on the battlefield. Take it from one who knows. You helping to wean the Franks off our bribes without losing their loyalties will be as big a victory for as burning Dispargum and killing everyone in it would be. You are not a soldier, Secundus, but you can still serve Rome in her hour of need."

He laid his hand back on his son's shoulder. "Now. While you are gone, I will look over your forces. Perhaps something can be made of them after all. Maybe we can substitute some of my cavalry for yours." If for no other reason that it would help to have men loyal to him there, and some of the disloyal units where they were surrounded and under watch.

Marcus nodded towards the docks. "I believe your ship awaits you, Secundus. Good luck, my boy. We will talk some more when you return. It will be good."

 

[FazilKotuk]

Marcus Secundus

Despite the aggravating and patronizing tone of his father's words, not to mention his failure to accept responsibility for defying an imperial mandate by withholding troops, and even his blatant denial of Flavia's clear disrespect to Secundus by implying an effeminate nature, the Count maintained some of his cool...but he had to reply to the bit about the soldiers.

He was commissioned to command troops, which meant that he must have troops to command. Whatever his father thought of his military skills (or lack thereof, to listen to Procopius), he was officially a Count in the service of the Roman Empire. And he had his duty, just as clearly as did his father. Only his duty came directly from the mouth of the Divine Augustus. The impression of mistrust toward Secundus and his men was also irritating indeed.

Perhaps a small gesture might throw his father off a bit, without any real danger to himself. Somnus would presumably be looking for traitors, and would never know the difference because, whatever his faults, Procopius was no traitor. If he redirected the eunuch's attention and also warned his father, it might serve a variety of ends. Of course, he wouldn't tell his father the identity of some of the eunuch's targets, in case his father's misguided loyalty and belief in their innocence sabotaged everything.

Even so, he had to make a clear statement or two that indicated that he wasn't the compliant or submissive son anymore. He wasn't a boy or a youth. He was a grown man, and so would maintain his dignity, especially as a Count these days. He was officially a clarissimus in his own right now. He would also have to emphasize that his men were loyal because he directed them to be. He was in full command of his cavalry already, especially with officers from before the days of Constantius. He had his own soldiers, officers, and loyal adherents.

"Father, my men will not turn against you, if that's what you fear. There's no need for transfers of any sort. I have already instructed them to obey the Emperor's officers, since while I pay their wages, they are officially sworn to serve the Empire. Besides, they are my brethren of the sacred mysterious rites. You might not understand my religion, Father, but it has certain ethics of its own. One of which is not to fail at one's duty, whatever that duty might happen to be. A breach of one's sworn word is not done lightly. It is viewed as a serious matter by all true members of our brotherhood. That is one of the reasons why we have been a great source for soldiers for most of Rome's history.

"Also viewed as a matter of great import is duty to protect one's family. If I have failed in this matter, I deeply regret it, as I indeed regret all failures by all parties. I wish that our family bond was closer, but it would seem that between my perhaps hastily spoken reservations about Aelia and Flavia, as well as certain comments regularly made about my masculinity, there has been plenty of harm and guilt to go around. It is for that reason, as well as my public duty as a soldier of Rome, that I made certain of the loyalty of my officers and men. I do not wish to further divide and poison this family.

"To that end, let me encourage you to speak to Lucius and Gnaeus Vaenius, twin brothers and deputy commanders of my cavalry. They are 58 years old and experienced from many wars in the service of Rome. There is also Aulus Martinus Rufus, the most senior of my tribunes and squadron commanders. He is 39 and also a hardened veteran. There are many others. They will reassure you of their loyalty and that of the other officers and men. There is even a Vandal chieftain named Mercurio, whom I might add is quite trustworthy and is the only Christian in the command staff. Even if he is an Arian.

"Oh, and before I leave, I must warn you of the paranoia of Somnus. He means well, and always catches the traitors, but he sometimes accuses a few innocent men by mistake. He tends to see treason in any number of acts. Even the most indirect or innocuos criticism of an imperial command could be construed as sedition and treason by that eunuch. Since his chief assignment is to catch the enemies of the Divine Augustus, he will be quite ruthless in pursuing anyone perceived to be such. The Emperor is very trusting of his officers, but the Grand Chamberlain and the Master of Offices are both very paranoid, and each have their agents. Not all of them are as high in profile as Somnus.

"The deacon is relatively harmless by comparison. Don't get caught sacrificing to a pagan deity in public, and you're relatively safe. He is only here to catch a few idiots who are brazen enough to still pray to Jove or Cybele or Isis in broad daylight, so he can report back to the bishop that he has found some pagans whose arrest and execution can impress the Emperor and serve as an example to the rest of the people.

"If you have an image of a household god or an amulet, however, I'd hide it around the man. He won't snoop, but he will be observant enough to catch something flaunted in front of him. He knows about me, but I am protected by powerful friends at court and by the bishop himself. Jews are also relatively safe, since they are too few in number to be a threat.

"Rome has changed, Father. The fanaticism of the bishops has mellowed, especially with the knowledge that the church has converted enough barbarians to be safe no matter who wins in the end. The Emperor, however, is desperate to hold onto the remaining provinces, whatever it takes. He is listening to a lot of advice.

"The greatest menace is the barbarians, and we all know it. One way or the other, we will have to resolve the issue of the migrations, or we're finished. Even the Emperor knows it. He is trying to hold things together and placate every faction in order to avoid another revolt or uprising that might bring another civil war. He fears what such rebellions will do, even if quashed. Hence concessions to the bishops and others to prominent members of other religious sects. He wants to avert outright bloodshed. Be careful, Father. There are a lot of eunuchs who blame the generals, and I speak from what my own ears have heard," the Count saluted, hoping that his warning would demonstrate just how much things had changed and how much his standing had improved in Ravenna. Not to mention that he could be trusted, whatever rift existed between them.

His plans wouldn't prosper with a suspicious Procopius watching him and his men closely.

 

[magbeam]

Marcus Procopius Elafius Aquila

Marcus listened as Secundus tried to explain his position, tried to retort to his father. He kept quiet throughout all of it, a stern if neutral position on his face - his usual diplomatic, public persona. However, each word that Secundus spoke was as if it were an additional mark next to the boy's name in his mental list. There could be only two explanations that Marcus could think of to rationalize this discourse. If the man really believed all this, he was incredibly naive, to the point that it would seem incredulous that he functioned at all amidst the politics and intrigue of the Imperial court. And if that were not the case, then it meant that Secundus was lying through his teeth, and doing so in a way that assumed that his father was an idiot who had seen nothing of the world - which would be almost as naive, true, but more in line with the way the self-important men at the Capitol thought. Marcus did not hold it against Secundus that he was trying to protect his position; he held it against him that he did so in a way that could threaten the Empire and in a way that assumed his father was dull. The lack of respect in both instances was shocking.

But still appearances were appearances, family was family, and duty was duty. Marcus had no intention of turning his son away. What he had said earlier to Flavia was true, but he also, as head of the family, could not let this discord maintain itself. If he could salvage the relationship, at least somewhat, that would make him die a bit happier. And if, at the same time, he could use it to uncover what he was increasingly convinced was the thing Secundus was hiding...

"Secundus, my boy, you need not worry yourself so. I assure you, my intelligencers are well aware of who you have been recruiting, and I am sure that they were every bit as loyal to the Empire as you are." The former was a slight embellishment of the actual situation; the latter was, at least, truthful enough in Marcus' eyes. "I will speak with the officers you mentioned, and I am sure it will be as you say. I still believe, however, it would be a god idea to mix units. It will create a better esprit de corps, and, if you forgive me for saying so, my dear boy, I believe your men can use the training mine can provide."

A half-truth. A esprit de corps was what Marcus had in mind; for if they felt as one unit, loyal to the army's supreme commander, their singular loyalty to Secundus might falter. And, dire as it might be, Marcus' army was small enough that he couldn't overlook the fact that he might need Secundus' men, and need them trained and no longer amateurs. It was a walk upon a knife's edge: they needed to be trained enough to be effective in supplementing the frontier army, yet not skilled enough to overwhelm it should that day ever arise.

"I can tend to myself, son, never worry; I only fear for you, which I believe is a father's prerogative with his heir."

Some more flattery and a reminder of Secundus' unique status, even if Marcus' meager possessions likely meant less than nothing to the boy now.

"I care little for a man's religion, only his loyalty and effectiveness. If you say our masters in Ravenna look beyond such things in your case, and will overlook your raising your private army, then I will take your word for it. You are, after all, much more knowledgeable about those in power at the capitol than I am."

Another half-truth, mixed with appropriate flattery; it was true that Secundus knew more of the actual people in power at the moment, yet Marcus had been dealing with those same type of people all his life.

"As for religion and eunuchs...All I can say is that I have dealt with such things since before you were born, son. Give your pater at least some credit for having survived this long," he said with a smile. "I've beaten these barbarians before, and God willing will continue to do so. Now, I believe my First Spear wishes to speak to me. May the peace of God go with you," Marcus offered, starting towards the waiting Cornelius, before pausing and turning back for a second.

"It's good you wish to salvage our familiar ties. I do as well. To that end, I would like it if you would join your sister, our guest, and I for dinner tonight. I believe you know our residence and the usual time. Although, if there are more pressing matters for you to attend to, Count, I will understand, as both a father and a general."

With that Marcus turned back towards Cornelius.

 

[FazilKotuk]

Marcus Secundus

It was as Secundus had feared. His father hadn't taken the bait about the eunuchs and the deacon, and hadn't been convinced of the lack of peril from what was indeed a private army in effect, albeit not in name. Well, it was always a long shot, but it was the only one that he had possessed at that moment, one of misdirection that would make a theatrical magician proud. So, with no time to warn his officers without being obvious and delaying the inevitable voyage, Secundus had but to trust in the loyalty of his Mithraic brethren.

The only officer among them who might betray him was Mercurio, and he would have to make sure when he returned that he got the officers to reveal everything that the Vandal auxiliary had done and said. It was sad that he couldn't completely trust all of his officers, but many Vandals, while fine soldiers in wartime, were also increasingly Christians. The only hope that he had was that Mercurio's Arian form of Christian belief would keep him from backing the Athanasians who predominated in his father's stafff. Arians had been as persecuted under Gratian and Theodosius as pagans and Mithraists, if not more.

Speaking of religion, part of Secundus was bothered by his treason and deceit against his father, as it was usually condemned by the ethics of the brotherhood. However, with a Gallic Empire the only possibly hope for Mithraists to freely practice their beliefs and rites, and with the Empire crumbling of its own weaknesses and corruption, this was the only part to salvage civilization.

The Western Roman Empire was overextended- spread too thin. A Gallic Caesar who maintained a nominal adherence to Ravenna and the Divine Augustus would presumably be less offensive to the Emperor. Gaul was half-lost, anyway. Britain was already on its own, but could be recovered by a Caesar from Gaul who had British blood coursing throug his veins.

Spain and Africa would presumably join Italy and Illyricum in a kind of rump Roman state that could survive with a Gallic buffer protecting it. Reunion would probably occur once Gaul had bought Rome time to strengthen itself, and the Eastern Empire could guard its eastern flank, so the loss would only be temporary and necessary. In a century or two, the Western Empire would be a cohesive entity once more. If he had to defy his Emperor in order to save the Empire from its own devices, then so be it.

There was another thing. Gaul could be a haven for Mithraists, Jews, Pagans, and Arian Christians, anyone and everyone oppressed by the imperial state church. Even Druidism could flourish- minus the human sacrifices, of course. If any end justified despicable means, this would be it. So, if Secundus had to turn usurper and rebel to buy time for the West, he would do it. It had been his plan, indeed. It was too bad that such plans would never be seen by his father as anything short of complete treason and betrayal.

He had painted a bit of a rosy painting about Ravenna, to be candid. He knew it and he now guessed that his father already knew it. It was true that the Emperor listened to a lot of bad advice, but he did so because it appealed to him. It was still the Emperor's own fault, and Honorius was especially keen on his sycophants. Which was, why, repulsive as the idea was, Secundus had turned sycophant himself. With a purpose in mind, for certain, but he was still disgusted with himself with resorting to it. He just had to remind himself of why he did it.

As for religion, the truth was that the bishop liked to convince his fellow bishops of his zeal by harassing enemies of the church. He had indeed sent Laurentius with a quota. The deceit had to do with Somnus and the imperial secret service. There was a much wider net than what Secundus had admitted, and part of him hoped that some of his father's close cronies would be among the victims. That way, Procopius would be weakened at the ideal moment.

He just didn't want his father himself harmed, hence the move in that direction of a warning. Just because Honorius was indeed more paranoid than Secundus had told his father regarding traitors didn't mean that Procopius had to be among the accused. It would be convenient for him, but it would be too much a breach of filial loyalty to be acceptable.

Meanwhile, Secundus would perform his mission, perhaps alleviate his father's doubts, and hope that while his men were being trained by his officers and those of his father, that the Mithraic bond would prevent any defections. Or, in Mercurio's case, a long Arian memory of Athanasian cruelty. Perhaps, just, possibly the Franks might make great secret allies for Secundus, in fact. It was worth an effort.

As for supper, well, he'd eat with his father and sister, but he'd also take Philippa with him. If they were going to be prudes, then they should have to confront their own priggishness. It would also be a good retaliation for his father still taking Flavia's side and believing her an innocent victim in all of this. He noted that the comments about Flavia's remarks against him were completely ignored.

That in itself was telling. Procopius might be sophisticated enough to see how corrupt Ravenna was, but he was completely naive about the machinations of the fair sex. Even the sweeter ones, like Philippa, were capable of manipulation at times.

Speaking of women, what could and should be done about that Frankish princess? Well, perhaps her father could give him ideas. Surely, a new Roman who treated him with respect and shared his misgivings about Procopius would make a more amenable husband for the girl. Perhaps even a secret marriage, an alliance between the Franks and the new Gallic Empire?

Philippa would understand, as long as she wasn't dismissed from his bed completely. And it would remove any temptation to couple with youths. He wouldn't have time for them between two women. Marriage to a Frankish princess these days was quite acceptable from the viewpoint of preserving the social order. It would be a political marriage and would match a woman of similar standing to a man like Count Secundus.

It wouldn't hurt to be very friendly and considerate to Fregedund, in case Flavia might try to turn her against him. He would need her complicity in this, too, if it was to be secret until the right moment.

Such were the Count's thoughts as he sailed out with the boat to the Frankish side of the Rhine. It was for the best that his father had the last word...this time. It might soothe his fears and reassure him. Secundus knew that money and religious piety would hold his light, mounted army together.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Flavia Procopia Aurelia

For the first time since her arrival in this Godless country, Flavia awoke without shivering from the cold. Turning to her side and watching the sleeping Fredegund stir as she withdrew from the closeness they had shared. She decided to let the Germanii princess sleep for a while longer, and quietly slipped out of the room.

Amifitre was to be found in the kitchens, were she kept a stern eye on the preparation of her mistress' breakfast. Although being young the girl still had managed to emulate all the haughtiness of her predecessor Lydia, and it was clear that she would not allow any sloppiness on the part of the servants ranking lower than she did. She turned and offered the merest bow to Flavia and told her that Dux Marcus sent his compliments and regrets that he had to depart before they had time to breakfast.

It was to be expected and Flavia knew better than to show her disappointment, but there was still a twinge of sorrow that her father had been forced to leave so early. The memories of their coupling were still vivid in her mind, and she could not help but smile at the recollection. Perhaps this was the way that it ought to feel when one was in love, and more to the point, was loved and treasured.

Having Amiftre attend her as she went through her morning routine, and then returning to her bedchamber where Fredegund was still fast asleep. Sitting down on the side of the sleeping couch and gently rousing the Germanii woman from her sleep, offering her a smile as she opened her eyes.

"Goodmorning Sister. Breakfast will be ready shortly and Amifitre will be assisting you to get dressed and ready. I was thinking that we'd do a social call today, as well as get you a new wardrobe. I'm sure that Cornelia will be able to assist us. Now up you get."

Flavia caressed her forehead before standing up and leaving Amiftre to get Fredegund ready for the day. She recalled Marcus' words about making the Germanii princess feel at home. It may be that the girl, for all intentents and purposes, was a hostage but it didn't mean she'd be treated like one. Truth to be told, Flavia enjoyed her company, and in many aspects she had begun to regard her as a younger sister. Elafia and Flavia had never had much in common. Her older sister had a kind disposition, but she was dull and there had never been much conversation between them. Well with the exception of Flavia's pranks that was. Still Elafia had never been one to hold a grudge and on the whole their relation had been amiable. Fredegund in comparison had a sharper mind, of that Flavia was certain, and she thought she could detect a warped sense of humour that resembled that of her own.

Even though Flavia knew what striking appearence Fredegund made, she was still impressed by the image that she presented as she walked into the villa's main room. The dress, although a size or so too small, conveyed her ample figure and having her hair arranged in Roman fashion rather than the barbaric style which she had worn when first they met only served to underline the grace and beauty of the girl. Flavia couldn't help but smile and stand up to take Fredegund's hands as she approached the table.

"By Juno you truely are a beauty. I'm sure that both the Divine Mother herself and Venus are green with envy when looking at you."

Holding the Germanii princess' hands and leaning forward to kiss her cheeks. "Now enjoy your breakfast and then we'll going to see Cornelia and furnish you with some dresses my dear sister. You're after all a member of the Dux Marcus' houshold and we can't have you dressed like a peasant."

They finished their breakfast rather quickly and was on their way through town to meet with Cornelia. In addition to Amfitre, who walked next to the sedan chair, Flavia and Fredegund was escorted by the ten man strong bodyguard commanded by a decurion. Tata surely took Fredegund's security seriously, and hopefully the young Germanii would appreciate the efforts made.

Arriving at Cornelia and Livius Nerva's house some minutes later and being greeted by the head of the household slaves, taking them to the main room where Cornelia was waiting, attended by her oldest daughter. Being a few years older than Flavia, Cornelia had a litter of children running about the room. Cornelia showed her usual friendly self and greeted both Flavia and Fredegund with the utmost courtesy. They had some wine and spoke about this and that, mostly regarding the latest fashion and how hard it was to obtain such garments in this part of the world.

"My dear Cornelia, we ought not complain overly much" Flavia begun as she had a sip of the wine "after all this is Ultima Thule, the end of the world, but even here one finds people who shares the refinement of Rome."

Flavia nodded to Fredegund who seemed to have taken the comments about the nature of the province, and trying to bolster her confidence she patted her hand.

"Surely the Germanii have different customs and I'm sure that even we Romans can benefit from learning a thing or two from our Germanii cousins."

Cornelia nodded her apologies to Fredegund, and the conversation continued as amiably as it had begun. After another cup of wine before Cornelia announced that they ought to be on their way to procure the dresses for Fredegund. Amfitre and Cornelia's bodyslave had already assembled their retinue and in a few minutes they were on their way. There was one tradesman in the settlement who provided if not the latest, then at least an acceptable selection of dresses and jewelry, and the two Roman women found themselves embroiled in a rather lenghty discussion regarding what fashion would fit the Germanii princess.

Flavia used the purse she had received from Marcus and they said their goodbyes to Cornelia, promising to see her soon. Getting back in the sedan chair and once more relishing the relative privacy that it provided.

"Perhaps we could go to the thermea tomorrow. I'll kill for a hot bath" Flavia smiled as she patted Fredegund's hand. "I don't understand how you manage here, I always feel slightly dirty not being able to wash myself properly every day. No don't take it as a blatant criticism of your country dearest sister. Take it more as a statement of the frailty of the Romans."

She smiled mischeviously as the sedan chair was gently placed on the ground and the two of them being escorted inside. Telling Amfitre to start preparations for supper as she and Fredegund was being served honeywater. Not knowing whether Marcus Secundus would show up again, she still ordered the slaves to make sure that at least five people would be served. It wouldn't surprise her if her brother brought his whore with him. It was not that Flavia disliked the girl Philippa, but she budged at the way her brother flaunted her.

No matter what Marcus Secundus said or thought, there had been a genuine bond between Marcus and Aelia. Her mother may not have had the heritage of Serena but she was still noble. Besides, Flavia knew that they had been happy, and even though her brother would never admit it, her mother had never for a second viewed him as anything less than her own.

Telling Amfitre to help Fredegund to get dressed as she oversaw the last preparations. Tata ought to be home by now if nothing else had occured and she wanted everything to be perfect for him. Smiling as she thought of Marcus and, perhaps a bit shamefully, sensing the tingle between her legs at the recollections of his touch. It may be an affront to the Christ, but seeing as Flavia viewed herself as being more pagan than Christian she knew the precedents. Didn't Jupiter himself engage in congress with his daughter Venus? The old order was not averse to such liasons, at least not if they were conducted discreetly.

Being interrupted in her reveries by the announcement that Marcus was back and quickly getting to her feet to greet him. Standing tiptoe to kiss him, and perhaps lingering a second longer than she would have before letting go.

"Good evening Tata. I hope your day has been good. Supper's just about ready. Would you care for a cup of wine while you wait?"

She took a step back and smiled, unable to hide the blush that coloured her cheeks.

 

[FazilKotuk]

Marcus Secundus

If the Count had any misgivings about breaking with his own previous plan to be sober for the rest of the market interval (or week, as it was increasingly called in its seven-day form, thanks to the Christians)....he had left those behind soon after being offered mead by the Frankish king.

There was something about honey-flavored beer that had a sweetness not matched in wine. Not wishing to be less of a diplomat, Secundus had done his best to be the virile and masculine of men. Hunting in the forests, participating in drinking bouts, and generally talking the same language as Clodio and the other thanes would improve his chances of success.

Take that, Flavia. I'm as manly as any of the men that you know, and nothing about my pale skin will change that fact.

Brushing back his jet-black hair a bit, he met privately for the first time with Clodio, and this time got to business.

"My king, I want you to know that I have an especially good relationship to the Emperor himself. Unlike my father, the Dux, I am in good stead at court. I can help you in many ways, not the least being your standing compared to your fellow tribesmen. As far as I am concerned, your current location on this side of the Rhine is perfectly acceptable to Rome as a permanent frontier.

"Now, I knw that you're dealing with a cash shortage. Perhaps you'd like a private donation from my own purse, instead of from the Empire? I would expect you to stay on this side of the frontier, but I would also encourage the Augustus to think highly of you. Not to mention that I would consider some kind of marital tie to you. I understand that polygamy is common among many tribes. Perhaps I could find a woman that you would like to wed and vice versa? An intermarriage between us would improve our relations, wouldn't you say?

"I can also promise that if you should happen to aid my forces in future battles, there would be plenty of loot to share with you. I can also buy some extra grain for your people. How does this sound to you, my friend?" the Count offered a hefty bribe, one actually worth the investment if he could achieve peace for Gaul on one border and gain an ally for himself. Success would be complete for him on this first assignment.

Additional Frankish warriors in his army when called upon would strengthen his hand later, if he needed them....

Several parts of the pact that they reached were kept secret, of course, but enough was on record to make it clear that the subsidies had been dropped for now.

By the time that he had returned to the town and met with his officers to survey any damage done by his father, he was pleased with his progress. Luckily, his officers were loyal and reported everything that happened, including that Mercurio hadn't done anything odd yet. So far, so good.

He was able to take Philippa with him to Procopius's house with a relatively good mood, given the news.

 

[magbeam]

Clodio

Clodio scowled as the Romani entourage entered the gates of Dispargum from the makeshift boat landing along the Rhenus. The fact that there were less soldiers this time and the telltale wagons hauling the Romani shame-tribute did not do anything to brighten his mood, as they might have in the past. In the past, Clodio had enjoyed the sight of the arrogant Romani bringing him tribute, helping feed the tribe that fought alongside them against their enemies. Even after the defeat of a few years back had proven the Romani no longer invulnerable, he had still been relatively content to maintain pretenses. Gold and grain were gold and grain no matter where they came from, and even better when they didn't need to work for it. The Roman armies still were available to fight enemies, enemies that were now far fewer now that they had largely crossed the Rhenus, leaving much of their farmland and treasure behind for the Franks to scoop up with ease. Indeed, for a few years, it had seemed that not crossing the river had been the best decision any king had ever made.

Now, though...now, even the Franks were learning that they could not avoid the world that was changing around them. The migration of half a decade ago had released pressure on this side of the bank, but far to the East, the Huns were continuing their march across the continent, and every day more and more refugee tribes were pressing against the eastern border of the Franks. The other tribes had so willingly abandoned their farmlands because they produced so little yield after so much over harvesting, and the winter worsened each year, and with it, so increased the number of those who died from starvation. And as each day passed, the Franks looked to the west with envy at their brother-Germans who had crossed into the land of the Romani, the fabled country where the sun always shone, where water did not freeze at night, where every man owned twenty slaves and a dozen wives, where gold could be plucked from trees and wheat grew without tending.

They looked with envy at their brethren, before looking with resentment at their king who had deemed that they remain in Germania.

It now seemed inevitable that there would be a battle soon. The new Roman warlord of the western bank, Elafius Aquila - Elafius the Eagle in the Romani tongue, no doubt for his similarity to the noble bird of prey - was adamant in his duty to protect the frontier, just as his predecessor had been. And just like his predecessor, he had been given far too few warriors for the task, and would be crushed beneath another wave of Germanic settlers seeking only to live like men. And this time, Clodio would not hold back. To do so would not only threaten the Frank nation with extinction, but him with death as well.

But until then, there was nothing Clodio could do, even had the Eagle not stolen his Fredegund from him. No, it would be best to keep taking the Roman food and gold until the last minute, do nothing to stir the suspicions that the Eagle obviously already had. Clodio had ordered a banquet for the visiting Romans, and while most of their warriors refrained, a few of the Roman thegns partook.

One of them, the senior thegn, sought a private audience with Clodio, which he gave happily enough. There was no harm in being polite to those that he had, after all, made a shield-pact with, and he might learn something of value - which he did. The young thegn introduced himself as the son of the Eagle, and after a glance, Clodio could see a resemblance, even if this young one was clearly not the warrior his father was. Yet he claimed to advise the Roman king himself, and Clodio knew that the Romani were secure and wealthy enough that even their highest advisors could be fat and happy and never have to prove themselves in combat as he had many times in his youth.

So. The thegn, named Second-Marcus as far as Clodio could translate the name mentally, was obviously an ambitious man, and sought to undermine his father's pact and warriors, clearly enough. So he was neither as honorable nor as warlike as his father. And by his words, he knew not the Germanic sense of honor, either. Offering him paltry grain in return for fighting for him? Offering his hand in marriage in return for forcing the tribe to stay on the eastern bank? The man was a fool as well! But even fools had uses, and Clodio eagerly agreed to the man.

"Second-Marcus, you speak the sense of a wise man," Clodio said, happily sharing his mead with him. "Continue these Romani subsidies from your father, yet offer us your own as well, and I pledge myself to you a shield-brother in battle once you call on us. A marriage is fine. A man like you who is at the side of the Roman king would make a fine addition in the family. Your king would do worse than to have his greatest ally joined with one of his thegns as well."

Clodio continued to celebrate and flatter the Eagle's son until he and his entourage finally left Dispargum, back towards the rickety fleet that would take them back to the Romani camp upriver. The head of the Roman warrior detachment viewed Second-Marcus with suspicion as he saw the thegn leave the hut of King Clodio. Clodio waited until the Romani ships were long gone, before allowing himself to smile.

He certainly had every intention of aiding Second-Marcus. Any help to him would hinder his main enemy, the Eagle. It was dishonorable to be sure, but there were few options left to him. And he did have every intention of aiding Second-Marcus in battle. He had heard tales from slaves taken from Gaul about the early days of Rome, when they attacked instead of defended, grew instead of shrank. Roman armies would always help allied nations that required aid. And once the war was over, the Roman armies remained, the allies joining the conquered. It would be most amusing to use the Romans' own lessons against them. The marriage was not such a bad idea, either. Once inside the rich Roman territory, Clodio would have no problem continuing to serve the Roman king - and once encamped within the Empire, the Roman king would not be able to refuse the aid.

But first things first. Clodio summoned his thegns and shield-brothers, as well as a number of messengers. "Send word to the kings of the Quadi, Thuringii, Ostrogoths, and Charudes, giving them safe passage to Dispargum. Tell them that Clodio has much to discuss with them." Then, once the messengers were away, Clodio began to tell his plan to the curious thegns.

* * * * * * *​

Marcus Procopius Elafius Aquila

Marcus wearily made his way through the day, his inspection of Secundus' troops leaving him even more drained than ever. He had interviewed all the men that Secundus had mentioned - Rufus, Mercurio, the Vaenii - with Cornelius, Scudilio, and Tribonius Valerius, the commander of his own cavalry corps. They all had been as Secundus said, quite loyal to the Empire and properly appreciative to Secundus for giving him this opportunity to serve. It was not enough to deflect Marcus' suspicions. His son's forces were not quite a mess as he had feared, which again, was perhaps not as refreshing as it might be given that he still didn't know what they were being used for. Some of them were near-ancient veterans of the Army, skilled but quite old. Others were auxilia or those who had been disbarred from service do to religion, eager to serve but having little training and no combat experience. Then, there were the Germani, some who had quite clearly seen combat but on the wrong side of the field from the legions, and those soldiers who had been evicted from service for whatever reason, and were both properly resentful at the Imperial service that had cast them from their duty and proud at the Imperial Count who had offered them the chance to see blood once more. All in all, it was a mix of possibly loyal but untested with tested but disloyal. Reluctantly, Marcus ordered Valerius' men to begin training those of Secundus' force that were the least trained, those also being the ones who had the best chance of remaining loyal to the Imperial army that Marcus represented. The fact that he was offering to train only their least-effective soldiers gave him the leverage he needed to push over Secundus' reluctant officers, and more than once he had to remind them that he was the dutifully-appointed supreme commander of all Roman soldiers along the frontier.

After the harrowing struggle was finished, it was now time to see to the training of his own army, riding out to one of the outlying forts to oversee maneuvers of one of the cohorts. By the time he returned to the camp after several hours of castigating soldier and officer alike, the night was falling, and Marcus was feeling more tired than he had any right to. Perhaps last night had left him more drained than he thought. A small smile crossed his lips, one that in the nighttime dusk, alone on his horse save for the few officers and Mago behind him, he did not feel the need to stamp out. He might have been drained, in more ways than one, but how it had been worth every second.

When they arrived back at camp, the officers he was with headed off to their local mess, Mago following him back to his home. He slowed outside, wondering what he would find inside. Would Flavia he gone, too ashamed to face him? Would Secundus be ready and waiting, ruddy-faced, to confront him over his entirely legitimate observation of the private army? But the tribune who had met him on the way back hadn't indicated that Secundus had returned yet. That dismal duty he could, at least for the moment, ignore.

No sooner had he entered than a smiling Flavia greeted him, rising up to grant him a kiss that stayed just a second too long on his lips, before blushing, bashfully looking up at him. Marcus allowed another smile - mirabilis! - before letting it fall as Mago entered, moving to deposit the general's effects in his room as usual. Then he was gone and they were relatively alone, and Marcus let himself smile again. Thank God that Flavia was not ashamed or hurt, but rather looking to all the world like a girl staring at her favored gladiator. Perhaps that would be a problem. But then again, didn't all girls have a soft spot for their fathers?

"My day was...tiring, Flavia. I suppose I was too preoccupied with duties to rest properly, yet at least I was...quite happy to get my work done." He slid an arm paternally around her shoulders, guiding her into the room, hinting no more about how he had enjoyed their night together, even what he had said seeming too much. Yet he was bursting to be alone with her, to find some way to speak what he felt he needed to say. It was as if he would die of thirst if he couldn't kiss those red lips again, and soon. But instead, he reclined with her upon the dining couch.

"Some wine would be welcome, yes. Thank you, Amfitre. I had to ride out to one of the encampments to oversee their training and deployment. Never a pleasant task, but I dare say that they're coming along." Whether better than the barbarians, he didn't say.

"Of course, that was after I had another talk with your brother, who will be joining us for dinner tonight, and then observed the forces he has been building up. However, the real marker of how good the day has been will come when I hear Secundus' report tonight." Marcus took a sip of the wine, saying no more about the order of battle, but instead continuing on a related tangent.

"I have spoken to your brother, Flavia, about the bad blood between you. He has promised to improve things, but Flavia..." Marcus looked uneasy, his true feelings conflicting with his role as paterfamilias, and as usual, duty winning out. "My dear, I would ask you to please not give him any opportunity to once more decry my supposed lack of love towards him and favoritism near you. It's clear that he is quite sensitive on the issue and I spent a considerable amount of time soothing his feelings over it this morning."

Then, louder, as Fredegund walked in, all family and official talk over before their foreign guest, Marcus exclaimed, "Fredegund! I barely noticed you, you look so Roman. Truly, our culture takes to you as well as I hope you will take to it." The princess looked stunning beyond belief, and if Flavia had not...well, even a man such as Marcus could feel stirrings over such a specimen as she. But that was a moot point. Flavia was here, and he had made an honorable pact with Clodio, and that was that.

Once more, they had to start eating having waited overly long, but seemingly as soon as they had begun their meal, Secundus and Philippa entered. As the woman took her seat next to Fredegund and Flavia, Marcus rose to clasp his son warmly.

"Ah, welcome back, Secundus. I trust you've already made a formal report, so I will not bother to inquire if you have. Now, tell me...how did it go with Clodio?" He kept half an eye on Fredegund, to see what her reaction would be to knowing that her captor had sent his son to moot with her own father.

 

[FazilKotuk]

Marcus Secundus

"Oh, I think that it is safe to say that I made a private donation to the good of the Empire. I had to replace the subsidies with my own money, and then some in addition, but it at least will cost the Empire nothing. You could say that I put my money to good use. Sadly, there was no other way to avoid the subsidies, as you indicated. The Franks are quite insistent about being paid, and I would much rather it not cost the taxpayers, but rather someone like myself who could better afford it. Don't worry, Father. I am rich enough to afford it, and in fact have more income to replace everything that I have lost, and if need be, pay as much next year.

"I don't know that I can do that for every tribe, but the Franks are powerful enough to make it a worthwhile investment. Besides that, I had no duties beyond drinking, feasting, and hunting with them. There will be no invasion this year. Unless they break their word, that is. The treaty is confirmed. So, at least where the most numerous and warlike Germanic tribe is concerned, we are safer now.

"So, my dear princess, what do you think of your surroundings so far? I apologize if I have been aloof, but I have had work to do for the defense of Gaul. Having met your father, however, I can see where your nobility originates. Tell me, do you hunt like your father? Incidentally, I'm very impressed with your native beverages, particularly mead. Has a nice, sweet taste to it.

"Now, sister, I do hope that we can put our mutual animosity behind us, as well as any disapproval of each other's choices as to mates and such. You are a Roman noblewoman, and that at least should bind us together as family and fellow Romans of the same station. Besides, I believe that we are both fairly skeptical of the state religion in some respects, so perhaps we think of what we have in common.

"Speaking of which, have you heard from Elafia? I haven't, but then she has been busy, as have all of us. War in Father's case, marriage and a journey in yours, marriage and motherhood in hers, and business and politics in mine. You really ought to invest your dowry, sister, though. It will be twice as large and will be good security that way, whatever you choose to do. Vineyards are an excellent choice, since people drink even more in hard times than in good ones.

"Well, that is that. I must be going home soon. I do, however, hope to see you again, Princess, and you, sister," Secundus declared.

"Father, I take it that you found the cavalry force to be ready and loyal. You haven't shown any discomfort, so I assume that you have met my officers. They are good men, as you can see. From Mercurio and his Vandals to the Vaenii to Rufus. All quite willing and eager to serve the Empire again. And definitely too few to be anything but an asset to the defense of the frontier. Certainly no nuisance, especially when I can be certain that they are paid on schedule and never harassed for what they believe or do in their spare time."

He wondered if he had been squeezed a bit more for being generous or physically not as large....even though he had proven that he could drink and hunt like any Frank. Hard to say. The main thing was that he had won a pact out of this. Let the Franks think what they wished of him. Maybe flattering, maybe not so flattering. Compensating the State for the subsidies out of his own purse was unusual, but it would be a gesture that gained his friends in Ravenna at least, if not elsewhere. The main issue, however, was a private alliance with the Franks. Even if they betrayed him, he had plans for that contingency. Father was right. He was more a diplomat than a soldier, but a diplomat with troops and allies could prove quite powerful, given a chance.

And that the Frankish king agreed to a marriage was an even better sign. He didn't know what would happen to the grain that he had bought for the Franks, but it was likely to have been sold to more desperate tribes for yet more cash. All the more reason for the Franks to back him, at least for now. Time would tell what else he had purchased. As long as he acquired Gaul and Britain, and possibly a Frankish queen, he would be fine.

In the meantime, both Scudillo and Somnus had copies of the "official" pact and of the financial contributions that Secundus had made to the public welfare.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Flavia Procopia Aurelia

Flavia walked silently as her father recounted the events of the day. His posture did not for a moment betray any of the events that had taken place between them the previous night, although Flavia thought she could sense that there was a subtle change as to how he held her now. Added to this was of course the way that he smiled, she thought that she could see her own emotions mirrored in it and it served to chase away what little doubts she had felt.

He lay down on his couch and she took a seat next to him as Amfitre served him a cup of wine, drinking deeply from it although not emptying it as he told her about the official duties that he had been carrying out as well as mentioning that her brother would be having supper with them. Flavia had to bite her tongue not to retort in anger as he next spoke. So Secundus was complaining, what had he ever to complain about? The man had risen higher and faster than anyone of his ancestors, and still he was not satisfied. it pained her to be chastised, but as oppose to her brother, Flavia would never do anything to defy Marcus' wishes.

"I promise to be on my best behaviour Tata, even if it means having to humiliate myself."

She gave him a long stare as she stood up to greet Fredegund. It was clear that her transformation did please Marcus, and for a second she could almost feel a stab of jealousy as to the way her was looking at her. Then again, the Germanii princess did make a striking appearence and it wasn't strange that most men, had they been given the choice would have preferred her over Flavia. Given what had passed between them as well as what he had told her, it still made her feel uneasy.

They sat down to eat, seeing as Secundus and that woman still hadn't turned up. No doubt her brother wanted to make a spectacular entry, and it wouldn't surprise her if he had been changing his attire at least twice. He always wanted to make an impression. Staring at the opposite wall as she steeled herself for their visit. She must act with dignity and not allow herself to take his baits. Bite back the sharp remarks and behave with utmost grace and dignity. Still it didn't matter, Flavia knew that Secundus would always despise her as well as her mother, and while she could live with the man hating her, the way he described Aelia was a hurt that would not heal easily. She couldn't understand the reasons though, other than jealousy. Elafia had never raised such issues regarding their father's second marriage, and as far as Flavia knew, her sister had gotten along quite well with her step mother.

Flavia didn't have time to brood though, since one of the slaves announced that Count Marcus Secundus and his consort had arrived. Steeling herself as she stood up and greeted her brother and the woman, kissing her cheeks and offering a chirpy welcome, before turning to her brother and offering him a welcome as well.

Sitting down again she listened with only half an ear as Secundus spoke about the military situation, and then tried to flatter Fredegund. Surely her brother had other intentions than mere pleasantries in mind, but it was not for her to say. As he addressed her she had to fight the impulse to snap back at him, his words clearly a lie to appease Tata, but even though she was fuming beneath her composed mask she bit her tongue and replied in a civilised tone.

"Why of course Brother and surely there are nothing about your choices that would merit my disapproval. I'm sure you know your own mind best and that you in time will lend even more honour to our name and family. Although I do not quite understand as to what you are referring to, we're all good Christians now aren't we? I cannot claim to be informed as to the workings of the Christ in detail but I do know the solace that He provides and I think we are all thankful for the wisdom that He lets us partake in."

Flavia smiled self-depreciatory as she took another sip of wine. "Our sister is doing well all things considered. I belive she is expecting yet another child, at least she was when last I heard from her. As for investing my dowry, I do think that it's for Tata to decide how best to manage it wouldn't you agree Brother? It would seem strange indeed if I would take liberties would it not?"

She sat back again, trying hard to retain her composure. Thankfully she didn't have to keep up the appearences for long as Secundus and Philippa soon said their farewells and left.

Flavia was fuming, but she kept her anger in check as she oversaw the clearing of the tables and sending Amifitre to assist Fredegund. She guessed that Tata would be annoyed but so be it. She'd done whatever he'd asked for and kept her peace while her pompous arse of a brother kept insulting her, although in more subtle terms than was his habit. Damn his pride and more to it, damn her own pride. She sometimes wished that she had been able to be content with the world as her sister was, but the prospects of settling down with an equally dull husband and raising a score of probably just as dull children held little appeal to her. Knowing she would have to confront Tata, but dreading it. She guessed that he would be angry with her, if someone could see through her pretences then it was him, and even though no one could point to her being explicitly rude, he would know her sentiments.

Walking to his room and knocking on the door, much like she had done the previous night. She could hear him stir before allowing her to enter. He was perched by his desk, reading through one of the scrolls that was his habit.

"I hope I didn't cause you affront Tata, Gods know that I did try my best not to stir conflict with my brother."

She tentatively moved closer as he stood up and almost before she knew it she found herself in his embrace, his lips on hers and her hands running down her back.

 

[FazilKotuk]

Marcus Secundus

Retiring to his own villa with Philippa, Secundus washed his hands of his sister. He had tried to make overtures of peace, as Father had asked. If she chose to persist in pettiness and insults, be that on her own religiously confused head. He didn't buy her claim to be purely and completely Christian, either. He had grown up in the same household. He had seen Father, Mother, Aelia, Elafia, and Flavia all pray to Lares and Penates, to ancestors, and household gods, even to the Gods of the old Pantheon.

He didn't know how Fredegund had reacted to his flirting, but he hoped that he had opened the door to her accepting a marriage arranged by her father. If it was ever implemented, of course. It didn't matter too much, but would be a bonus.

He was half-tempted to report Flavia to Laurentius, but that would be hypocrisy from a Mithraist and a betrayal of blood.

She is lucky that I am no true Christian, either.

Certainly, however, he could give some tips to Somnus regarding principal members of the frontier bureaucracy. Civil servants, not officers, but it would send a message. If he had to turn informer, so be it. Hopefully, one or two would prove to be friends of Flavia's. She'd deserve that heartache, after rebuffing his olive branch.

Meanwhile, he met with his officers and made sure that any damage done by his father to his authority was undone. Procopius wouldn't get another chance anytime soon, if he had anything to say about it. The message was presented in his villa, in private, but it was unmistakable. Yes, his father was the supreme commander of the regular army. This, however, was an elite force separate from the normal command structure.

More to the point, Procopius was of the state religion (at least officially) and no one present was. Even Mercurio was outside the imperial religious establishment, because he was an Arian Christian, rather than an Athanasian. Another point in his favor, he thought, in dealings with the barbarians. They all shared a dislike of the imperial, catholic church. Many Germani were Arian Christians, who hated the state church even more than Pagans did, and with even more justification for that hatred.

Perhaps the Visigoths would be interested in an alliance, too. He would send messages to Alaric and others in the Gothic leadership, thus widening his options. As long as they were used against the enemies of the Empire, he had no trouble with that idea. If and when the Franks turned on him, or the Goths did, they could be turned against each other and he could play the mediator, thus gathering more power at their expense. And there were also Vandals, for that matter. The weakened tribes would then have to submit to permanent imperial rule- that of Caesar Secundus. No one would dismiss him then, would they?

Such were his thoughts as he met briefly with Somnus and Laurentius, and then headed off to Philippa's bed for a night of fierce coupling. The African woman was one that he could never part with.....she knew how to satisfy him and was desperate to do so. She knew where her bread was buttered, after all. Not that she was a whore. The power and wealth that first drew her were now mixed with some degree of infatuation. And there had always been lust on both ends. If she uttered a lot of curses in her Punic language at times, so be it. It would be practice for Fredegund, if nothing else.

The odd thing was that Philippa was herself a Christian (as were almost all Africans these days), but she never held his own faith against him. For all he knew, she was praying for his soul, but he would not hold that against her. Women were barred from the Mithraeum, anyway, so she had to be of a different sect than him.

As his concubine moaned and he spilled his essence inside her, thus ending their sexual congress that night, Secundus smiled at the idea of his growing power and influence with the townsfolk and barbarians. He even had plans to expand the Mithraeum and add a new bath. He would possibly build a circus, too, if they were grateful enough. And he would be remiss, despite his true religion, if he didn't donate to the local monastery and church for purposes of charity. All to enhance his own public persona. He had enough wealth by now that he would die rich, even if Father cut him off.

Just as well that he had such a potent weapon as immense wealth. Until his army and alliances could grow enough, it would be his principal leverage, coupled with his influence in Ravenna.

 

[magbeam]

Marcus Procopius Elafius Aquila

Marcus quirked his eyebrows at Secundus' reply. A 'private donation' in subsidies to an entire tribe, and a rather large one at that? Marcus made a mental note to check the records with Nerva, Scudilio, and Rufus later, to see if it was indeed as he had said.

"That is quite a hefty investment on your part, my boy. For it not to bankrupt you, you must be even more rich than I imagined, and I am proud at you having climbed that high. Still, to bankroll the Imperial funding of our dear federate Franks...That is charitable no matter what. You are truly a patriot, my boy, and I knew I could count on you to accomplish your duties for the Empire above and beyond what was expected of you."

Of course, Marcus' kind words belied what he was really thinking, an opinion that was rather markedly reversed from his spoken sentiments. Secundus funding an entire tribe of possibly tens of thousands of warriors and attendants in grain and gold...it was nearly absurd to contemplate. There was something going on here, Marcus thought, something that tied into Secundus and his private army. Certainly it couldn't be the obvious, horrible thought - treason of that level would be beyond even one so ambitious as Secundus, certainly beyond his capability to manipulate, and one such as he should be smart enough to know that he wouldn't be able to control the deluge should it start.

He watched Secundus chatting up and flirting with Fredegund, wondering if that could be part of his plan. Marcus decided to have Fredegund write to her father or those close to him for an inquiry, then changed his mind instantly. No way to know if it would get through un-intercepted, if the reply would be genuine, or even if Fredegnd would be willing to accommodate him. She was still his hostage, of course, and she would know the answer might determine if he made war on her people or not.

Nevertheless, this had gone too far. Subsidies were handled by the central government and the Franci were not a random aggregate of border ruffians but a tribe officially recognized as a federate and as a Friend and Ally of the Roman People. For a private citizen, no matter how highly-placed, took it upon himself to intervene, it became a matter for the government. Marcus resolved to write to Constantius immediately. Secundus might be close to the Emperor and the Imperial staff might be glad to not have to spend tax money on barbarian bribes, but Marcus could count on the Master of Soldiers to take notice of a nobleman raising a private army possibly aligned with the border federates. Even if Secundus was innocent, Marcus decided, he could not risk it any more, especially when it was made increasingly clear his son would not speak the truth.

By the time he had decided the course of action and returned to the present, Secundus and Flavia were in the middle of a discussion. He didn't know whether to call it icy or a heat kept simmering. Likely the latter, he settled on. Both of his children seemed angered, yet their words and tone, at least for the most part, remained civil, with nothing directly out of the polite. They were both trying to follow his request. Good, he sighed, drinking another mouthful of the watered-down wine. He would not need to mediate this time. After all that happened within the past day, and just now, Marcus was for once not sure he could maintain his neutrality. All that had just happened... He sighed again, studying Flavia out of the side of his eye. He hoped that she would not be angry with him for this later. Then, he chided himself for thinking of petty, fleshly things like that. There might not even be a next time for...that.

Secundus and Philippa, still as silent as ever, soon left, and the meal ended shortly afterwards. Before Flavia could corner him, Marcus made an apology and left for the command tent. A conference with the legates, Cornelius, and a number of his ranking tribunes soon followed, as Marcus quietly explained his views to his most trusted officers, those he knew would not speak and whose loyalty was to their commander. The news was not taken well, but with little surprise. Already their general's son had gotten a bad impression from among the frontier garrison's soldiers. They looked over the records of the transaction between the Franci, and after interrogating Nerva and several of the other soldiers who had witnessed it, Marcus returned to his home and room, starting to compose the letter to be sent to the Master of Soldiers.

No sooner had he gotten through the introductory salutation than the same knock on his door that he knew so well came, suddenly flooding his memories with the previous night and his lower extremities with heat. Keeping his voice steady, he put down the stylus, announcing, "Enter."

Sure enough, it was his daughter, entering almost shyly, apologizing for her behavior - as if she ever needed to, although the proprietary gesture was appreciated. Before he could stop himself, Marcus had risen, taking her in his arms, a soft kiss on her lips lingering far longer than her slightly-improper affection earlier had. It was several full seconds before he finally pulled away, finding it hard to remain with a stoic composure.

"I'm sorry, my dove, I...Well, that was foolish and improper of me," he said, not even thinking of the fact he had kissed his daughter, but rather that he had done so without first ensuring the door was closed and without any words before hand.

"Now, Flavia..." he moved closer, taking her in his arms again, holding her against his chest. "You don't need to apologize. You were doing the best you could given your brother's own words, and I appreciate it. I am proud that you handled yourself so well. I know it wasn't easy for you, but know I had to ask it of you."

His eyes drifted sadly to the start of the letter to Constantius. "Your brother seems to have failed in more areas than etiquette. I...well, never mind." Marcus straightened then, not ready to tell his daughter his thoughts. The staff and the commander-in-chief were one thing, but if he turned out to be wrong, there was no sense telling such slander of half-formed theories to those of his own house.

"Flavia, I have to ask," he began, growing a slight bit uncomfortable. "About last night. It...it was wonderful for me. But did you...That is, will you..." Marcus wanted to ask her if there would ever be a repeat, but he could not bring himself to say it. Not to his own daughter, not even after all they had been through and how much he wanted her again.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Flavia Procopia Aurelia

Flavia closed her eyes as she once more felt Marcus' arms around her and relished the pleaure that his kiss brought her. Not able to help but moan disappointedly as he withdrew for a moment and all but pulling him to her as he embraced her once more.

She listend as he spoke about her brother and his antics. Flavia understood that there were serious allegations, and only a few moments earlier she would have gloated in it. Now however, Secundus didn't matter to her, the only person in her personal universe was the man currently embracing her.

When Marcus next spoke it brought a soft smile to her lips, Flavia was not used to being asked whether she took pleasure from carnal congress. Never had her husband asked if she enjoyed it or even if she wanted it. It was his desires and wants that counted, and on more than one occasion she had found herself crying after they had been catered to.

She didn't reply in words, but instead turned her head to allow him to kiss her again as she ran her hands down his back. "I want to be with you again Tata, so very much that it almost hurts." She kissed him again and gently disentangled herself from his embrace and with a shy smile opened her dress for him. Hearing him gasp and watching as he slowly, tentatively almost, cupped her breasts and bestowed yet another kiss on her full lips.

His calloused hands were surprisingly gentle as he caressed her, and then gently steered her to the sleeping couch, where he laid her down and continued to kiss her lips as he struggled to get out of the confines of his clothes. She could sense his eagerness, matching that of her own and as she moved to enter her she had to bite her lip not to cry out loud.

Looking deeply into his eyes and once again seeing just the shadow of her own reflexion in the emerald orbs as he pushed inside her, stretching her around him and causing her to moan. Her hands went to the back of his neck, caressing him as he picked up the pace. Flavia's hips mirroring the movement of his as she met his every thrust, causing her insides to tingle and her mind to go blank with the exception of the pleasure that he was giving her.

Her breathing was getting more laboured and it didn't take long until she could feel the same overwhelming sensations as the climax broke and for a second there was nothing but blissful darkness. She sensed him tensing up before deposing his emissions inside her with a barely audible grunt.

They lay in silence for a few moments until she gently pushed him aside and standing up to retrieve her dress.

"We mustn't linger too long Tata."

Smiling as he kissed him again "I need to see what Fredegund is up to and you ought to get some sleep. You need to rest at times as well."
Giving him a final smile as she slipped out the door and walking to her own chambers.

 

[FazilKotuk]

Marcus Secundus

The one thing that really disturbed Secundus about his father and his relationship with Flavia wasn't just the partiality, but the rather intense and strange bond between them. They acted....almost like lovers. Which would good for an idea to get back at both of them for their clear unfairness toward him.

How dare they judge him for his choice of lovers, when Flavia's husband was a lackluster soldier at best and certainly no better than Secundus himself....and Procopius had poor taste in wives. Couldn't he see that first Aelia and then Flavia manipulated him readily? Typical man these days.....under the foot of a fortune-hunting wife and her priggish daughter.

No, it was time to let a word or two slip to Laurentius. Hypocrite that he was, given his boy-loving ways, he would still find the notion of incest horrible.....especially in a noble general. And it would at least reduce any impact of a warning of any sort that the apparently suspicious Procopius gave to his superior. Not even Constantius could help the Eagle's reputation if rumors persisted about unnatural congress with his daughter.

Yes, Father needed a good comeuppance, and so did his sister. And to let them know that they weren't the arbiters of sexual mores. If there was anything that Secundus hated about the church, it was that it so blatantly made rules that weren't natural, and then went out of its way to violate them. Well, it was time to use that sanctimonious mindset against it....

If Father was going to side with Flavia the way that one would with a lover or wife who had him in thrall, then perhaps he deserved the slur. And none of it needed to point directly back at Secundus. Yet they would know that it originated from him.

And, meanwhile, he'd get out of his father's hair, and build up a reputation. He'd take his army on an expedition to get it blooded....probably along the eastern bank of the Rhine for a few months. When he returned, his enemies, including his father, might well be turned against each other. With powerful allies like the Franks and Goths, he'd ride out and take the field against several Germanic tribes that had not yet made peace with his father or him.

A good military reputation from a scorched-earth policy would help him advance his cause.

He quickly sent for the deacon and whispered his concerns....casually and flippantly, over a cup of wine and a game of cottabus. With any luck, it would get back to the bishop of Rome, and he'd raise Hell with the Augustus over it. Incest would be a scandal and put both Procopius and Constantius on the defensive. Yes, that would do..., he thought, as he greeted the deacon with an innocent face.

 

[magbeam]

Marcus Procopius Elafius Aquila

Marcus breathed in sharply when he heard her words. 'So much it almost hurts.' How could she have known that that was what he felt when he had thought of her? That even though they had known themselves in the full meaning of the word for such a short amount of time, that he had to almost-physically suppress the thought of her when they were apart lest he be consumed with joint desire and sadness at being apart? That to have to act in what now was an unnaturally distant way when with her in company tore at him? Marcus had always loved Flavia, just as he had always loved Elafia and even Secundus. If pressed, he would have admitted that he loved Flavia perhaps the most of his children. Yet now, he loved her not only in that way, as a parent loved a child, but in the way a man loved a woman - and yet, when he wished to loudly proclaim his love and passionately embrace her, he could only merely smile and give her a light kiss on the cheek.

Yes, he could only do those things in public, but thankfully, he could forget that now, if just for a few hurried minutes, already knowing the act would become all the more loving for its compression.

He did gasp this time when Flavia withdrew from him, opening her stola to reveal the body that was all the more lovely for its moderation and the modesty she affected it. It had taken his breath away with its beauty the night before; he knew it would always do so to him in the future, no matter how many times he had seen it prior. His hands moved over skin so soft it almost made him ashamed of his own ruggedness, as if it would be a crime to handle such exquisite softness with anything other than the pampered hand of a spoiled aristocrat. Truly, anyone blessed to experience Flavia must count himself as spoiled beyond anything he deserved! Yet her soft moans and cooings of pleasure assured Marcus that he was not hurting her. Strange, he thought. All have I been through, so many times I have cheated death or sent men to their own, and yet before women - before my Flavia - I am as unsure of a myself as a youth clumsily pawing at his mother's slave. Although, again Flavia's reactions belied his modesty, to Marcus, it still rang true.

His hands finished stroking those wonderful breasts that would never know a mother's milk, and Marcus finished laying her down on the sleeping couch. He was suddenly, shockingly aware of his own state of dress, and hurried to remedy it, as if his life depended upon it. Naked, he was soon on top of her, eyes and mouths locking increasingly frenetically, as he pushed his way into her, her back arching as her moans matched his own lower-pitched grunts. Her hands caressed his neck, her mouth kissing his, hips grinding up against his own causing the hard tips of her breasts to push into his stomach.

It was soon that she climaxed, breath short and moan high, and Marcus soon joined her, his own quieter but no less intense (or so he imagined), stars swarming before his eyes and feeling dizzy for a few seconds, before lowering himself to the side of her. His breath slowing, he drew her to him again in a lazy embrace, his other hand gently stroking her breasts for a few enticingly fresh moments. Finally, she rose to reclaim her clothing.

"No, we can't linger long, can we?" he asked, his smile a sad reflection of her own. Marcus tried to pretend to himself that it wouldn't always be this way, that somehow they would be alone, completely alone, or perhaps be among those who could be trusted not to care, or who genuinely didn't...but they were the foolish dreams of an old man who was too world weary to believe in them.

"Flavia," he said, reaching out for her just before she left. "You make me feel young again. Thank you." She smiled and sweetly said how it was nice of him to say that, and wishing him some rest for the night. Marcus laid down again as she left. It was nice of him to say that, but it was true, and he wondered if she knew how much even that simple feeling meant to someone like him: a man who had watched as the world around him, physically and culturally, had inexorably crumbled; who had seen almost all of the people he cared for, and even know, die; who had buried two wives, been exiled from his homeland forever, and banished to the far end of the world; who had stopped believing even in hope. For a man such as he to feel young again was more than a miracle.

Marcus continued to lie there naked for a few more minutes, before rising to get dressed again. It would not do for someone to walk in and see him naked after having seen Flavia leave. That done, he gave the manuscript another glance. It could wait until tomorrow...but tomorrow was already so full. Reluctantly, he sat down to finish the letter, before sending Mago off to deliver it to the command staff, who would furnish it on a messenger first thing in the morning to be sent to Constantius' army. Unless he had moved from his headquarters at Mediolanum, the Master of Soldiers could have the notice within the week.

If he had moved, especially away towards the East...Well, that was in God's hands now, and Marcus felt that he was now prepared to take Flavia's advice, and get whatever sleep he could.

 

[FazilKotuk]

Marcus Secundus

For the second night consecutively, a restless Count Secundus rode out to his camp in secret after finishing with his diversions. Sleep had eluded him of late, perhaps because of his plans...but he was yet to feel the full effects of his deprivation.

Meeting with his officers, particularly the Vaenii, he assured them once again that he was very much in command of his own force. He also urged them to let him know if and when his father "inspected" them. After his own inspection and reviews to make sure that nothing was amiss, he led the Mithraists among them to the local Mithraeum in the proper rites there in the camp. He couldn't afford to leave the army officerless for even a moment.

That done, he decided that it was time for the first test of his force in action. He ordered a night attack on a small, but aggressive tribe of Germani far enough away not to threaten the Franks and Quadi, but close enough not to be away past dawn. It was a raid on their livestock, as well as a nearby village. It didn't take long to kill all defenders who were caught by surprise and burn the village, as well as seize the cattle. This was the beginning of his campaign of war by attrition and fire, but it was a promising start, and several of his men saw their first action.

With the first loot of his career (including slaves, since they couldn't allow witnesses to reach their brethren and they could use the money for the soldiers), Marcus Secundus, Count and commander of his own privately funded cavalry, returned well before sunrise. That was the advantage of cavalry- speed and distance. His men took their rest (minus sentries, who could catch up later) behind the fortifications of their camp.

He slipped back into bed with Philippa before she even knew that he had left. She could find out later. For now, he'd rest. He had earned it, hadn't he?

 

[Britwitch]

Fredegund, daughter of Clodio

The day had passed pleasantly enough, Fredegund had to admit. The clothes Flavia had selected for her were among the most beautiful things she had ever seen and it was somewhat pleasant to have someone to hand to help with her hair and dresses. Apart from ensuring that the unfamiliar garments would simply fall off of her at the slightest movement, it was almost calming.

Fredegund had been a little surprised to awake to Flavia sat beside her that morning, a half remembered vision and sensation of her body lying close to her own during the night had flitted back to her as the roman woman's hand had stroked her face but she had dismissed it as another example of Flavia's desire to make her feel as comfortable as a prisoner could be made to be. And it was working.

With all the attention lavished upon her, Fredegund was at times finding it hard to remember that she was there against her will and not simply visiting a cherished friend, which is how Flavia was certainly making her feel.

The evening meal had been interesting to say the least. Marcus' son had apparently decided to show some kind of interest in her. Fredegund's natural reaction had been to politely answer his questions about hunting and accept his compliments on her country's cuisine but her mind was searching his words for their true purpose. There was something almost covetous in his eyes, in his voice. She didn't trust him and why should she? He was the son of her father's enemy and that made him her enemy, regardless of how pleasant Marcus and Flavia were being towards her.

Fredegund ate her fill, shivering slightly as the roman garment provided little protection from the chilly night air. Such dresses might look more pleasing than the robes she had worn back at her home, but they did nothing to keep the wearer warm. Perhaps she could suggest to Flavia that they consider introducing furs to the roman wardrobe. Given her comments on the weather Fredegund felt sure she might just agree with her.

Once dinner was over, Fredegund found herself alone. Marcus' son and his companion leaving shortly after eating and Flavia had gone to visit with her father. Fredegund frown slightly, refusing to give into the desire to cry that welled up inside her. She missed her own father, her mother...her home...

Fredegund rubbed almost angrily at her eyes, determined that no one would see her displaying such weakness. She was, after all, a princess. And as such, her emotions were a private affair, something to be concealed from those around her. Especially those who were her captors. Her eyes were still sparkling and bright with tears as she heard footsteps approaching the bedchamber, swiftly followed by Flavia whose expression became almost immediately concerned as soon as she laid eyes upon her.

"I...I was just...just thinking..." Fredegund began, her tone almost desperate, suddenly worried that she might offend the woman who, until then, had been nothing but kind to her. A wave of inexplicable guilt rising up inside her that Flavia might think her distress might have somehow stemmed from her treatment of her. "When you went to talk with your father...I...I found myself thinking of my own family and my thoughts overwhelmed me for a moment...I am quite well, I assure you..." She finished with a slight smile, raising her chin slightly as she did so.

"Your father is well I take it? I do not pretend to understand all that you discuss but I can tell when a man is tired with much on his mind...my father often looks the same way..." Fredegund admitted, wanting to change the subject. "I wonder how he might look at me now though...dressed like this, like a fine roman lady...I doubt that he would even recognise me..." Fredegund's light tone swiftly changed as her voice began to tremble and the tears returned to her eyes.

She had barely recognised herself when she had glanced upon her reflection in the house's ornamental pools. She should not have consented to such things, she felt as if she were somehow betraying her family and her people by being so easily swayed by fine fabrics and food.
"Forgive me...please believe I don't wish to offend...perhaps I am tired..." Fredegund moved to sit upon the edge of the bed, turning her face away to attempt to hide it and the obvious emotion upon it. Everything Fredegund had experienced since leaving her home suddenly came rushing upon her.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Flavia Procopia Aurelia

After closing the door to Tata's study, she quickly made her way to what would have to pass for the bath of the house. Shivering as she poured cold water into the bowl and began to wash herself. Why would anyone want to live in a country like this? It was cold, horribly cold, there was no culture to speak of and as for it's inhabitants. By Gods, with the exception of Fredegund, they were all barbarians, crude and unrefined. Was it really worth the effort trying to bring some measure of civilization to this place. By the look of it, the Germanii or Franks or whatever they called themselves seemed none to pleased with it

Oh well, it wasn't really for her to voice an opinion anyway, men didn't take kindly to women with ideas other than for the management of the household. Well Tata at least listened to her but then again he was very different from most other men that Flavia had known. Her husband had generally thought her questions tedious and outright stupid, sentiments that her brother seemed to share. She would need to speak to him again, not because she wanted to but to humour Tata. She knew that he wanted desperately to instill some kind of normality on the Aquinas family. She'd just have to swallow her pride and accept her brother's tedious sermons and ill-concealed scorn of her.

She wondered briefly just how angry Secundus would be had he known what had transpired between her and Tata? He'd be angry of course, perhaps not so much because the purely physical acts, but rather because Tata had made her something of his confidant. That would irk him. Giggling to herself as she pictured him, Secundus would be right livid.

Making her way to her own room and opening the door, thinking she'd find Fredegund in bed, but instead seeing her sitting on the bed, clearly in a right state. Flavia moved a step closer, concern radiating from her as she asked the silent question as to what had befallen the Germanii woman. It was not merely courtesy that had prompted Flavia's behaviour, she had taken a genuine liking to Fredegund. She sat down beside her, placing her arm round her shoulders as the younger woman tried to reassure Flavia without any apparent success. For most of her adult life Flavia had been unhappy, and it took no special skills to see what a right state the Germanii girl was in.

"Dux Marcus is well and he will be pleased that you think of him. Though it would sadden him to see your sorrow my dear sister. I know that he's the architect behind all this and I don't intend to defend him, other than this. Had you not come to stay with us I would never have known you and Juno knows that my life had been more empty for it." Giving Fredegund a shy smile as she continued. "When I was parted from my father I thought of him, much like you do of yours, and I'm sure that he worries about you as well, and I'm certain that he would not want you to show your enemies" Flavia smiled mischeviously "just how affected you are." Meeting Fredegund's questioning look with a nod and another smile "I think that the best way for you to cope with it is to think that you are saving your people from unnecessary bloodshed. That is a great deed, my dear sister, and as soon as Dux Marcus has cleared away the threats you will be allowed to go home."

Flavia nodded although a shade sadly "I will miss you though. Very much." She pulled her into a closer embrace and kissed her forehead once. "It's freezing and I guess that we both could do with some rest. I shall help you get prepared. After all you are a proper Princess so I see no harm for me to act your chambermaid" She smiled again as she stood up to assist the Germanii woman with her garments, before undressing herself.

"Juno's eyes, this country is cursed cold." It was almost that Flavia's teeth clattered as she got down beneath the covers and moved close to Fredegund. Wrapping her arm around her waist and pulling her closer to her. She could sense that the worst crisis had passed, although it would take time for Fredegund to get used to the situation. Flavia didn't blame her for being miserable, what would she had done had the situation been the reverse? She shruddred, picturing herself trapped in some longhouse or whatever the Franks called their residences. Having to dress in furs and Gods know. Then again, she had practically been a hostage herself. Her marriage with Flavius had been arranged to further the career of her father and brother. That was the nature of the whole system. Women being used as little more than trading-goods.

Reaching over as she heard Fredegund quietly sob, thus pulling her closer without saying anything, trying to comfort her as best as she could. It was a strange situation, Flavia had never really been the one who had offered any solaces to anyone, perhaps because she had never really been needed before. The fact that Fredegund clung to her felt strangely good and as the sobs finally subsided she found herself unable not to smile, although she did not know what to say.

Looking into Fredegunds eyes, and leaned closer. Not quite knowing why she did so but sensing that what the girl needed was even more intimacy. Tentatively pressing her lips to her forehead and then her lips. There was a flickering of hesitation but only for a second before Fredegund parted hers to allow Flavia to kiss her.

Pulling her closer into her embrace, she gently explored Fredegund's tongue, marvelling at the sensation that she was experiencing. Not only the subtle pleasure of the flesh but also the result that the act yielded. Fredegund's misery subsiding rapidly, replaced instead by something akin to ...want.

Running her hands down her back as she continued to kiss her, careful not to be ovely eager, and finding that her actions were being mirrored. A content moan escaping her as she felt Fredegund's hands on her thigh.

Breaking the kiss and looking at the princess again. asking without words for her consent to continue and receiving it with the merest of nods.

 

[Britwitch]

Fredegund, daughter of Clodio

"I think that the best way for you to cope with it is to think that you are saving your people from unnecessary bloodshed. That is a great deed, my dear sister, and as soon as Dux Marcus has cleared away the threats you will be allowed to go home...I will miss you though. Very much."
Fredegund felt an unfamiliar warmth rushing to her cheeks at Flavia's earnestly spoken words. It was true she had begun to feel a kind of closeness to her given the time they had spent together since her arrival but she had never expected to hear Flavia voice such things.
"Thank you...for all you have done for me..." Fredegund smiled as Flavia withdrew her lips from her forehead. "I hope that once all of this if over we can remain friends..." It was an honest wish although one Fredegund wasn't sure she would see come to light. When, and if, she was returned to her people, the Dux Marcus may well take his family and return to a warmer, less harsh place away from the frontier.

Fredegund gratefully accepted Flavia's help in removing the roman garment that still baffled her in it's construction. So many folds and layers, Fredegund was certain she could well strangle herself should she try to remove one herself. Averting her eyes shyly as Flavia then tended to her own garments, Fredegund slipped beneath the sheets. Sighing as the cool, smooth fabric kissed her skin.

"Juno's eyes, this country is cursed cold."
"I suppose it would be a little cruel of me to say that one becomes used to it..." Fredegund whispered, feeling her breath catch in her throat slightly as Flavia moved close, her arm looping almost comfortably around her waist and using it to bring their bodies closer still. "I...I doubt I would ever grow used to the sun and humidity of the Southern territories..." She finished, almost meekly. There was a comfort to having a warm, soft body beside her. Something intimate and kind in the half-embrace the two women were sharing.

Fredegund had prepared herself for abuse, verbal, mental...even physical...whilst staying as a guest of the romans. Her brothers had told her horror stories of the things they had witness roman soldiers doing to Frankish women following their victories. Their purpose had been to ensure she stayed close to the house and to her family and out of danger and their stories had worked. With all their stories revolving in her head all the way to Dux Marcus' house, the last thing she had expected to experience was kindness and compassion the like of which she was now being shown by Flavia.

Fredegund tried to stifle the sob that rose in her chest but she failed. Cursing herself for seeming no doubt pathetic to Flavia, she felt herself being drawn closer still into the embrace and to her surprise, she found herself turning into it. Almost burying her head against Flavia's shoulder as she fought to regain control of her emotions, her arm moving instinctively to rest upon her hip. Soon enough the desire to weep had passed and Fredegund felt a new emotion stab at her stomach, something she could only liken to nervousness only...this was a new nervousness that she had never felt before.

As Flavia looked into her eyes and leant closer, the tingling and throbbing in her stomach only increased as Flavia's lips moved down from her forehead to her mouth. Fredegund tensed momentarily, no one beside her father and mother had ever kissed her so intimately and to be kissed by one who was a woman was as strange as it was exciting. Fredegund gasped quietly as her lips parted and Flavia's kiss deepened.

Her lips were soft and warm and her actions tender. Fredegund attempted to mimick them, not sure what was motivating such desires but following them nonetheless. She felt clumsy and awkward in comparison as Flavia's hand stroked down her back, moving their bodies always closer. Fredegund felt herself trembling as her own hand moved, gliding over the curve of Flavia's hip to rest upon her thigh, the skin beneath her palm feeling almost too hot in spite of her protestations about the climate.

As their kiss broke and Flavia's eyes sought hers, Fredegund could only nod, her teeth catching upon her lower lip as another wave of warmth flooded her cheeks, brightening her eyes in the process.

There were new and strange feelings erupting across the young princess' body, aches and pulses that delighted as well as unerved her and while she knew, somewhere deep inside, that what they were doing was somehow wrong...she could not bare the thought of it ending. Not yet...

Fredegund, hoping that her nerves and uncertainty did not show too plainly upon her face, leant forwards and tentatively kissed Flavia's lips again, closing her eyes and sighing as she kissed her again, and again.

Her actions, while still innocent compared to the lover's kisses she had witnessed between soldiers and their wives before battle, were growing slowly but steadily in confidence and comfort. Fredegund's hand remained on Flavia's thigh, her thumb almost absent mindedly stroking the smooth skin in small circles.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Flavia Procopia Aurelia

Returning the kiss as Flavia let her hands wander further down Fredegund's back to gently cup her bottom. Receiving a muffled moan as she gently rolled her over on her back. Continuing to lavish the princess with kisses and caress, marvelling how Fredegund responded to the simple touches.

Looking deeply into her eyes as she moved to kneel over her, kissing her lips and moaning as Fredegund retuned the kiss with equal passion as Flavia had shown her. Tracing her tongue along the princess' perfect jawline to tickle her soft neck before slowly closing her lips round her nipples.

It was not that Flavia had experienced a want for Sapphic practices before, not did she wholly perceive the act she was currently performing as being first and foremost sexual. In her mind she was conforting her sister, rather than pleasuring another woman. Perhaps she was tainted by her own experiences, that she had only been able to feel loved when giving herself to a man. Flavius had demanded that she fulfill her marital obligations before he would ever show her any kindness. Besides, sexual acts were between men and women, or like her brother prefered, between the active man and the effeminate other man.

Gently sucking at her nipple as she caressed Fredegund's sides with light fingers. Tracing the curve of the Germanii woman's breasts and then moving down, tasting the soft skin of her stomach until she reached the mound.

Looking up at Fredegund, biting her lip, more in anticipation than anything else before she gently parted her legs and breathed on the exposed prize. Flavia leaned closer, inhaling the scent before kissing the folds. Being rewarded with a moan from the Germanii princess which encouraged Flavia to continue. Tracing the ridges until she found the petal, pressing her tongue against it and gently caressing it as she placed her hands on Fredegund's thighs.

She could feel herself growing moist at the sounds that Fredegund uttered, the laboured breathing, and the way that their fingers intertwined as Flavia continued to kiss and trace her tongue over the sensitive petal. She was able to taste her essence and the sensation caused her to utter a muffled moan into the softness.

Not able to resist the urges, Flavia gently disentangled herself and moving up to kiss Fredegund again. Seeking her eyes and seeing the need in them that mirrored that of her own. Smiling as she bit her lip again, and gently lowering herself over the younger woman's face. Having to clamp her hand across her mouth not to scream out as she felt the hot breath on her most intimate parts. Leaning down to resume her ministrations as she felt the first tentative touch.

 

[Britwitch]

Fredegund, daughter of Clodio

Fredegund's eyes fluttered between being all but closed and being wide open, her breathing shallow and cheeks flushed. Never had she imagined being touched in such a gentle, loving way upon such an intimate place...and certainly never by another woman. She found herself time and again catching her teeth upon her lip to prevent her whimpers and moans from becoming too pronounced and possibly alerting others within the house of their activities.

Her sex was alive with sensations, rippling and pulsing through the delicate folds as Flavia's mouth fondled and stroked the innocent flesh. Fredegund's hips were obeying commands that her mind never gave, rolling gently against the soft probing of Flavia's tongue. Her nipples were still erect and the moistness left by Flavia's mouth was causing them to cool and tingle deliciously.

The princess' hands held onto those of the roman woman between her thighs, one occassionally lifting to stroke tentatively through the curls upon her head, their silkiness like the finest of fabrics as it glided between her fingertips.

Then a different whimper, one almost of disappointment as Flavia moved up and away, breaking the magical connection between them. Their kiss was as loving as the previous had been although now Fredegund could taste the essence of her own sex upon the lips pressing against her own. It was musky and sweet all at the same time and it sent a shiver dancing down her spine, as well as igniting a desire to taste more. So much more.

As Flavia rearranged herself above her head it was obvious to Fredegund that she wished to recieve the same attentions she had administered. Obediently and with needs and desires of her own fuelling her efforts, Fredegund's tongue snaked between her lips and grazed the puffy folds now poised above her. Again and again she stroked, back and forth, now and again probing a little deeper, kissing and drawing Flavia's nether lips between her own ever so slightly.

Flavia's appreciative sounds only served to encourage Fredegund to continue, her own moans of pleasure as Flavia's mouth returned to her own sex were muffled by the flesh before them but could not have gone unheard.

After a few moments of gentle probing, Fredegund's tongue discovered something that felt almost out of place among the velvety soft flesh. Something almost hard and swollen. She licked at it inquisitively and then again, noting the slight jerk of Flavia's hips and, taking it as a good sign rather than the opposite, she began to lap at it again and again, circling the small bud over and over again.

 

[FazilKotuk]

Marcus Secundus

Waking the next day, the Count briefly coupled with his African lover, and then kissed her before meeting with the deacon, who would really shock his sister, he thought with amusement. To think that she thought him a boy-lover...perhaps that was the true root of her fascination with Philippa and her resentment of him....maybe she just thought that the concubine was a guise for a tendency toward homosexuality. Well, the deacon Laurentius was a true sodomite, and he hid behind celibacy, not concubinage.

In fact, he found Somnus with the deacon, in the act of getting buggered by him. Apparently, the eunuch wasn't averse to being penetrated in a good cause, or was that a bad one? After all, one didn't need testicles to assume the woman's role in the act....just an orifice. For his part, on those rare occasions when he indulged a fondness for a young man, the Count preferred to be the dominant partner, and took pride in that fact. Far from him to lie back and let anyone take him. The passive role would be humiliating for a nobleman.

Not that Somnus seemed to care, so they all went to the villa's baths and discussed their plans in private. He wanted to be sure that they were him, though he didn't mention the treasonous side of things.

That done, he sent a spy with their approval, one from the entourage of the eunuch. That spy would find out anything that they needed to know. And they all agreed that rumors of incest would help, especially as Secundus had convinced them that his father and sister were guilty.

He secretly doubted that they were, but it was better to divert the attentions of the imperial secret service into things that would benefit him. There was enough smoke to create the appearance of fire, though he personally suspected that they were just prudes. Whichever was the case, incest and celibacy were both every bit as unnatural as the deacon's sexual inclinations, if not more.

Finished with this work, he inspected his troops and prepared them for their second expedition, which would happen when they thought them ready for it. More German tribes, of course, though not the Franks. Fear instilled in the non-allied Germani would bring them to the table and make them realize that Secundus was not one to defy. Only then could he use them to his purposes.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Flavia Procopia Aurelia

Flavia had never thought it possible to experience such pleasure as she was currently feeling. The way that Fredegund touched her made her head swim, and she could no longer stifle the gasps that escaped her lips.

She ran her hands down along the soft undersides of Fredegund's legs, cupping the globes of her bottom as she doubled her efforts to bring her closer to release. The scent and taste of her essence casued Flavia to gasp again, the feeling was completely overwhelming.

Leaning down closer as she focused her attention to the soft ridges before centering in on the petal. Gently caressing the Germanii princess' most intimate parts with the tip of her tongue until she could feel her tensing up beneath her.

Flavia smiled as she withdrew for a second, her warm breath teasing Fredegund and causing her to give a disgruntled moan as the ministrations were denied her. Cotinuing to tease her further until the younger woman clamped her thighs around her head and more or less forced her head back in position.

Obliging the less than subtle demand and continuing to caress her sex until she felt the Germanii princess tensing up, almost smothering her between her muscular thighs as the climax ran through her body, her muffled cries ringing in Flavia's ears.

Finally releasing her grip and allowing Flavia to move to lay next to her again. A blush colouring her cheeks, although it was more due to the exertion rather than shame. After all she had comforted her sister and she saw no harm in that. Pulling Fredegund close and kissing her, tasting their combined essence as she parted her lips for her.

Their kiss lasted longer than the first had done, less hastened by lust but still as intimate as the first one had been. Flavia broke away first and gently cupped Fredegund's face in her hands, much like Marcus had done with her earlier.

"I hope that you feel somewhat better now my dear sister." Kissing the tip of her nose as she laid back, yawning. Still basking in the warm afterglow of the lovemaking, well it wasn't strictly speaking that, Flavia had to conceed. Nonetheless it felt wonderful and she hoped that it would not be the last time.