Sex, Blood & Glory Book II: 1,000 Years in 20

By B.E. Lore

Nate joins Titus in the siege of Jerusalem, Jane lays siege to Claudius, and Amanda’s confidence slowly grows wings.

• Language: English
• Publisher: B.E. Lore
• Release date: Mar 3, 2018
• ISBN: 9781370082513

B.E. Lore

I was in high school when The Hobbit gave me my first taste of fantasy novels. Years later, when on business in Sydney, I wandered into a book store and happened across a copy of The Lord of the Rings. The world of hobbits in LOTR rang a familiar bell. I purchased the book and have since read it so many times that the spine is falling apart, but none of the pages are dog eared.Other epic fantasy series to capture my attention have been Dune, The Magician, The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant and the Wheel of Time. I have also enjoyed reading the novels of Jackie Collins; the bitches and bastards, humour and relationships in her books have entertained millions.And so I asked myself - what if I could massage the bitches and bastards and humour into a fantasy storyline? I would read that. The thought gave birth to The Time of Their Lives trilogy. I have enjoyed writing and reading it. The first book is complete, the second almost, and the third has its storyline drafted. I hope you enjoy them too.I live about an hour north of Sydney, Australia. I use B.E. Lore as my pen name.

Book preview

1,000 Years in 20

Book II of the Sex, Blood & Glory trilogy

by B.E. Lore

Published by Time Warden

Copyright 2017 B.E. Lore

Cover art by Jacqueline Law

License Notes – thank you for downloading this eBook. This book remains the property of the author, and may not be redistributed to others for commercial or non-commercial purposes. If you enjoy this book, please encourage your friends to download their own copy from their favourite online retailer. Thank you for your support.

Acknowledgement - I would like to thank Dianne for her support, Jacquie for her artwork, Neil for his funny lines, Liz and Jessica for improving my writing, and Greg for his proof reading although I made a few changes after his efforts so don’t blame him if you find a few typo’s!

Note to you, the reader - because this novel operates in two time lines that are moving at different speeds, you will find beneath the chapter headings the dates for ancient Rome and the future.

Coming soon by B.E. Lore

And Nero Fiddled

Book III of the Sex, Blood & Glory trilogy

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 1 The Nemi Ship

Chapter 2 Meeting the Messiah

Chapter 3 The Fall of Jerusalem

Chapter 4 Birth of a Religion

Chapter 5 A Glorious Return

Chapter 6 A New Familia

Chapter 7 The Circus Maximus

Chapter 8 The Senate

Chapter 9 1,000 Years in 20

Chapter 10 Going Home

Extract from Book III

Front Cover

Hornia - as a courtesan she has many partners, though few for the conversation she craves.

Eutyches -the emperor’s favourite charioteer.

Spine and Back Cover

Nate - drawn to Judea by a sense of fate, he leaves the budding love of a Vestal Virgin behind.

Back Cover

Heels - an important part of the female wardrobe since the height of ancient Egypt.

Glade - men will abandon their friends for love, and Leluuwahn males are no different.

Chapter 1

The Nemi Ship

Ancient Rome -March 21, 41 CE

The Future - June 27, 2078

Life is wasted without a defining purpose. Sitting cross legged, Buzzeere tapped his thumbs on the edge of his Shield, his head bowed to survey Nate’s roof. When he sees the Lord’s plan, will the human accept it? Will it be greater than his abilities? I am an elder with no answers. Buzzeere sighed and lolled his head back to gaze at the stars, his arms outstretched. Guide me, my Lord.

I

How can life be more complicated two thousand years into the past than two thousand years into the future? The threads of my life are a Gordian knot, tangled by a breeze controlled by forces I know little of. It was night, Nate and Scaevola were sharing their bed as always, Nate using the talk to note function on his phone to find his Alexandrian solution.

1. First is Julia. I need to see her before Judea. Have Scaevola take messages to her while I am there. Don’t lose contact."

Nice to be asked.

"End note. Don’t be precious. I was going to ask you. I needed to make the note first. Talk to note."

2. Become monogamous. Resist Pomponia at all costs.

Yeah right. I do not think so.

"End note. Shut up, or I’ll never get this done. Talk to note."

3. Wax. Going well, but suppliers are getting slow, and their prices are going up. See Lucius about new suppliers.

4. Suspect suppliers will release their own wax. Ask Lucius if I can stop this. Does Rome have patent laws?

5. Soap. All good. Selling well. Find new scents—maybe some from Judea.

6. Fanny flavours. None of Francesco’s Flavours are available here. Need to find flavours, or use the soap flavours.

That will not work, Nate. I have heard Paulus and Longinus say that the only people who give oral sex in Rome are prostitutes, and not even Paulus and Longinus will give oral sex to a prostitute.

End note. The kid has a point but, Attitudes can change.

Maybe. What flavours are you using?

If you’re going to listen, then listen. I don’t have flavours yet.

What about fish pickle?

Fish pickle? I doubt any man would want a woman who tasted and smelt like a fish.

Do not get shitty. I was only making a suggestion.

Talk to note.

7. Lingerie. Selling well with new lines coming soon. Amanda working on more designs with Sellia.

That one is a winner. The name I gave you is perfect. Scaevola had researched branding on the net. A brand name needed to be distinctive, suggestive, and memorable, and ‘MMM Factor’ was all three.

End note. Nate smiled. Although he had initially taken the idea for the leather G-strings and nates to Gordianus, he found the old letch would maul Amanda’s breasts and buttocks to the point of bruising her, and his garments were strong enough to repel a sword, not invite a man in. Following advice from Publius and Lucius, Nate sought out Sellia Epyre, the self-appointed maker of the most luxurious clothes in Rome. Sellia was weathered, but knew her trade, and her leather was soft.

Did I tell you what Sellia said of lingerie?

No.

She said lingerie shows what it means to be a woman. It aids in the seduction of men, a tool in the art of being a woman. Both Nate and Scaevola retreated into their thoughts.

Scaevola adjusted himself.

I’d better stop mentioning sex, or he’ll have another wet dream.

Sellia lined the G-strings with red or blue silk, and with Sellia’s name on the label under MMM Factor, prices and profits were high, Amanda taking forty percent of Nate’s share. Customers were courtesans through to elites. Sellia expanded the product line by producing a male he-string, and she enjoyed using Nate as a model.

A he-string needs to produce a package that will fit into the palm of a woman’s hand. Her fiddling with adjustments increased his size, the old girl having soft, skilful hands. A line of shoes, inspired by Amanda’s heels, was coming.

You’re an interrupter, Nate.

I’m a what?

An interrupter. Your products are interrupting and changing the market.

Where did you hear … never mind. The net!

Talk to note.

8. Aelia and the Obelisk. Find out how much the thing is going to cost me.

She got you there.

"End note. It annoys me that she volunteered my money to buy a giant penis extension, and excites me knowing it’ll become a famous landmark in Rome. I want my name chiselled into it. ‘Part Paid for by Nate.’ No, I need to think of something better than that."

Do not forget you need to stop Amanda going to Judea. If not, I will run out of potion to sell. Scaevola rolled over and pfffffrrrrrrtttttttted.

Did you have to do that in my direction?

Well I cannot it direct to myself, and if you would stop talking and go to sleep, you would not have heard it. Owww. Piss off. Scaevola rubbed his back.

"It’s not the sound that bothers me. Talk to note."

9. How do I stop Amanda going to Judea?

Dickhead.

"End note. Well you reminded me of it, and I had to note it down sooner or later, didn’t I? Talk to note."

10. Talk to Publius or Lucius about transferring money to Judea.

How do you do that?

"End note. I don’t know. That’s why I have to talk to them, Einstein." And if I was Einstein I could solve the equation on why I feel a need to travel to Judea.

I

I forbid it, Amanda. You have duties here, the first of which is to bear me a child. Publius was annoyed with her for not falling pregnant, and concerned he may be impotent. Putting a ruler through his annoyance was that, with Amanda, his house was now a home.

I go, Publi. I must. She stamped her foot. Must see Him. He famous in my land. She had not mentioned that Jesus was the Son of her God.

She is beautiful when angry, beautiful when happy, and beautiful at every moment in every place and in every dream I have of her. I will free her, then marry her, once she is pregnant. I cannot live without you, and my business demands my presence. Can you think of a solution, Lucius?

Perhaps if, when Nate arrives, he sends word back to us on whether this man is there. If he is, Amanda could then travel to Judea. Would that be acceptable?

Publi has never denied me anything. I love him but I must see Jesus. I talk to Nate. If Nate is taking his phone with him, he can call Scaevola if he finds Jesus.

Yes. Well done, Lucius. That is the best we can do for the moment. Do you think I should purchase armour from Gordianus to protect Nate in his travels?

A slave with armour? No. It could make him the subject of jealousy.

I

Should I do anything about Aelia and her son with the Lost?

Leave that alone, Nate. Stir that up, and Aelia will lose face. Nothing good will come of it.

You’re probably right, but why did she abandon her child? She loves Aqua.

She had no choice. A noblewoman bearing a child to a slave is not good.

Talk to note, said a plum in the mouth British voice.

11. Do not forget about Jane and Claudius. Yours was a good suggestion.

Nate stared at his phone. A pommy?

The colonial is lost for words? said the pom.

Who in hell are you?

I

But Master, is she truly Agrippina? The rumours say she is an imposter.

If she is an imposter, I do not care, Narcissus. When I am with her I feel potent, strong and at ease with a sense of self-worth that I rarely experience with my familia. And I admire her sense of maternal duty. The time she spends alone with Gaius sooths his demons, and she was a good wife to Germanicus.

Perhaps, but there is something about that dissolute woman that makes me fear she will cuckold you, master. As Narcissus thought he petted Pooch, his little white dog. Time will tell if she possesses the cunning of her mother to only take on passengers while carrying freight. Agrippina’s mother had been a shrewd adulterer, only engaging with lovers when pregnant.

I

Gaius?

Yes.

With Titus…going to…Judea, I was…wondering who…you might appoint…as prefect…in his absence. Licinius was enjoying the male slave bent over in front of him.

Do you have someone in mind, Licinius? Gaius was similarly occupied.

Me. The people … of Rome … deserve to … be served by … someone who … enjoys serving … them.

Well I do not enjoy you serving me, Valentinius thought, his hands gripping the edge of a marble table.

I will make…it profitable…for you…Gaius. Licinius reached around to the slave’s crotch and whispered in his ear. I want you to enjoy me as much as I enjoy you.

He can be ruthless in business, Caesar. I have seen it myself. Eprius was side by side with Valentinius, his position a mirror of the young slaves. He does that for the boy but not me.

Caesar stopped. I can do without your opinion of his worth, Eprius. In fact, I can do without your face, your feet, and your limbs, and to save me the trouble of mentioning the remainder of your body, your only feature I need is your buttocks. LIFT THEM. SMACK. Good. Stop talking, and allow me to concentrate.

Yes, Caesar. He is uhh…so forceful. He fills me with power as Licinius said he would.

Gaius?

WHAT NOW?

Keep talking, Licinius, He pounds me harder.

Licinius paused to speak. Regarding the slave who supplies you with his potion, how do you know he will not poison you?

I have had NO … PISSING … PROBLEMS since using his potion and see … NO … REASON ...WHY he would BE … TRAY … ME. Gaius rammed his point home.

I love giving myself to powerful men. Eprius pushed back.

I am sure you are correct, Gaius. It is only out of concern that I mention it. We know nothing of this Ohstrayla from which he claims to hail, yet he has the look of a Germanic. He could be a spy.

If he is a spy, HE … WILL … BE … KILLED. If not, I may LET … HIM … KILL … YOU for defaming him.

Keep annoying him, Licinius, keep annoying him. Oh no, no, no. He finishes.

If Gaius will not accept that the slave is a potential traitor, I must find another way to discredited him. He knows I am passive. Senators I can do nothing about, but him…

I

Who was that you were talking to, Nate?

Hi, Aqua. It was Scaevola. It was neither a lie, nor the full truth; Scaevola had been speaking.

It did not sound like Scaevola. Can I come to Judea with you?

No. You aren’t old enough.

But I will be brave like I was when those bad men chased us. I promise.

You were brave, Nate placed a hand on his brother’s shoulder, but you are too young to go to war.

You sound like Mamma. I do not want you to go. Can I sleep with you guys tonight?

Sure. Nate gave Aqua a fake punch in the stomach. On two conditions. First, you have to help me with the night pots in the morning.

But I do not like doing that.

OK. Sleep in your own bed.

Alright, I will help.

And second, if you have to fart, fart in his direction. Nate pointed to Scaevola.

I can do that. Aqua jumped up on the bed, stood on one leg and lifted a knee to his chest to liberate a pfrrrrt in Scaevola’s direction.

You little shit. Scaevola pushed the boy over to crash on his back on the bed. Aqua laughed.

Can we visit Glade before you go, visit the Lost? Before you leave? I want to fly again.

I don’t know if there will be time for that, Nate said.

I can take you, Aquilinus. I led the last trip, and that was fun.

No. I already asked Mamma that, and she said no because you are not part of the familia.

Why not? I have been here as long as him. Scaevola pointed to Nate.

Mamma said you are Nate’s transelator.

Translator, Nate corrected. Not transelator.

So? I feel like part of the familia.

It’s not enough. You have to be adopted or enslaved. Even I know that.

Before they went to sleep, while Aqua went to get a bite from the kitchen, Scaevola explained who the voice on the phone had been.

Talk to note.

12. Find a way to get that pommy prick off my phone.

I

Cicero, breathing heavily, had his hands on Sarai’s shoulders. The note he had received from Sarai, delivered by Nate, directed him to a hollow marble column within the palace. Sarai had found it by accident when riding with Caligula. She had noticed a slave disappear, and later returned to discover his secret. During their first two coquetries, they spoke not a word. During their third, with her vaginal tongue down his shaft, encircling his left testicle while licking the right, she asked, Are you helping Nate, yes? Her firm elfin breasts were brushing against his bountiful belly. I must return home.

Cicero would have told her anything to ensure their activities continued, but there was no need to lie. I aid him as best I can, futile though that is. His ambition will be thwarted by his enslavement, just as … Oh, Jupiter, … clear thought is thwarted by your meandering tongue. Slow down a little, dear. Why do women always seek to rush me to climax?

I

Strolling through the forum on his way to Cicero, Nate had Boobia, Jucia and Hornia, dark, yellow and fair skinned courtesans, in tow. I feel like the pied piper of a naked league of nations. Porcia had insisted he take them along; advertising was good for business. While he was accustomed to being in the presence of naked females, he was not comfortable leading them through the streets by their leashes. At least Jucia’s eggplant is staying in. Her exercises must be working. He spotted Julia. What will she make of this?

They stopped, the women talked, whispered, glanced at him, giggled and laughed leaving Nate to twiddle his thumbs. She is more comfortable with their nudity than I am. After more whispering and stares, it was Hornia who spoke.

Julia believes you will make a good senator, Nate.

Really? He stood straighter, looking at Julia in hope. Why is that?

Because you have great oratory skills.

Three racks of naked breasts jiggled with laughter while Julia blushed.

However, she is unsure which soap is best for her skin, Jucia added. She desires your company again tomorrow to further trial your soap. Could you do that for her? Lather her up with your strong hands? Jucia ran a long fingernail down his arm.

I can.

I thought you could. Jucia winked and squeezed his bottom, her almond shaped eyes coy and wicked. Julia’s blush deepened. How are your ears?

She told them everything? Nate left Julia to walk his leashed maidens to Cicero’s villa where they were met, but not welcomed, by Cassia. She led them through a library to a garden where they found Cicero in the company of a male friend, Seneca.

A garden and a library, everything you need, Nate remembered from his time with Tina.

What an intriguing home. Hornia was looking to the library.

Welcome, Nate. My friend Seneca wishes to meet the man from the unknown land. I trust you do not mind.

Not at all. I have heard or read of Seneca. As they discussed Nate’s upcoming journey to Judea, Seneca was generous with his advice.

Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labour does the body. You will face adversity in your travels; it is the test of strong men.

I am sure I will encounter difficulties, and if I am fortunate and attentive, I hope to come through safely and a better man.

Well said, Cicero admired. No false bravado.

If virtue precedes you, your every step will be safe. Seneca ran his fingers through Jucia’s hair as she settled her face into his lap.

Virtue is easier preached than practiced. Nate thanked him with a nod.

I want to listen to this conversation. Smiling, Hornia placed her head in Cicero’s crotch.

Not so fast, my dear. He had remembered her previous impatience. If you can read my library is open to you. Boobia took her place. Hornia made for the books adjacent to the garden.

Now, where were we? Virtue. While it is a desirable trait, men decide far more problems by hate, love, lust, rage, sorrow, joy, hope, fear, illusion or some other inward emotion than by reality, authority, any legal standard, judicial precedent, or statute. You are going to Judea to use force of arms to quell a revolt caused by an emperor who believes he is a god. While all Rome knows he is not, you and others will be fighting to defend his right to believe it. Virtue is not always right.

Might is Right.

Your view, young man? Cicero asked.

No. Ragnar Redbeard, an American.

American? Another unknown land. Seneca scratched Jucia behind her ears.

A patron of Australia, as you would say. America is the Rome of the world in which Australia exists. I hope to have maps produced of both lands by the time I return from Judea. Amanda had agreed to assist.

I see. When you speak of might, remember that most powerful is he who has himself in his own power. Seneca arched his back at Jucia’s activities.

That explains why people in power are often wankers.

That does feel good, my dear. Very good. Where was I? Ah yes. It is a youthful failing to be unable to control one's impulses. While you experience Judea, do not fall prey to foreign women.

It is a great thing to know your vices. Cicero’s fingers were twined through Boobia’s hair. Keep them under control.

I hear you are amassing a small fortune with your businesses. My wife has used some of your products, and I appreciate their effects. A word of caution, though. Wealth is the slave of a wise man. The master of a fool. Which do you think you have been so far?

Is it a wise man who judges his own wisdom? Is that my line or someone else’s? I have read so much philosophy on the net recently.

I told you he was good.

I would answer my question by surmising you have been. Seneca gave Nate a sideways look, intent as he was on supervising Jucia.

With the philosophers engrossed in their foibles, a quote from Abraham Lincoln came to Nate. It has been my experience that folks who have no vices have very few virtues. Abe was a wise man.

An interesting book, Hornia? She looks troubled.

I am not sure. I cannot read, so I am trying to understand what is written by looking at the pictures. Could Cicero teach me to read? I adore listening to him speak.

We could ask, but I don’t think so. The lecherous old bugger wants women for only one thing. Nate looked at her with sympathy for her illiteracy, and admiration for her enthusiasm for self-improvement. He appears to be finished.

Cassia stood alone, tapping her foot in a corner. These whores and their mistress receive the best of him, all because that foreigner has an unreachable goal of becoming a senator.

You will need to pay for her, my friend.

Oh, of course. You did inform me. Seneca searched his tunic to retrieve coin, slipped three into Jucia’s slot, and replaced her implant. A money pouch. Another practical use for a woman.

Coin. One of the few things men are good for, Hornia whispered in Jucia’s ear as the two walked arm in arm through Cicero’s front door.

I

How did the four of you come to meet? Nate asked Julia as he lathered her bald mound with the last of his blueberry soap. Her body is amazing.

We met on the Isle of Capri where Tiberius interned Gaius, Mother and my sisters. Keep talking, Nate. I want to last longer this time.

Were they slaves?

They …

Our background is ours, Nate. We have no desire to become ladies of Rome, a tedious life unsuited to our talents, Jucia explained.

It is not so dull as you say. Julia reached for Jucia’s hand in the hope that squeezing it would keep her orgasm at bay.

Oh Julia. What would you know? Jucia smiled and squeezed back. She was doing her pelvic floor exercises, her leash attached to Nate’s rhythmic wrist. As a Virgin, the life of a lady of Rome would be unknown to you.

Her back arching, her mouth open, Julia could hold back no more.

Well done, Nate. If only it was my turn. Now tidy her up so that we may depart. I need to move with haste to avoid being late for a regular client at the palace. Jucia removed her leash from his wrist and slapped his bottom. I am sure Julia has yet to decide which of your soaps best nourishes her skin. You may collect us tomorrow for another trial. Agreed?

Agreed. I don’t care if closing the shop costs me coin. I’ll take every opportunity to see her.

Nate. Julia poked her head back in the doorway.

Yes?

I have heard you are going to Judea. I will miss you.

His heart skipped a beat. We should go to dinner before I leave. Would you like that?

Yes, I would, but my position amongst the vestals prevents it. A vestal socialising with a man was dangerous for both.

Nate watched her walk out of his day. You have such a fluid sway to your hips, Julia. When will I see you again? Damn. I should have told her I’ll miss her too. Tomorrow night? he shouted after her.

Where?

I don’t know. I hadn’t thought of that. I’ll send a message.

He tidied the shop, daydreaming of Julia when Scaevola bounded in.

What have you been up to?

I met a girl.

What’s her name, and how did you meet? Shit. I sound like his mother.

Her name is Nona, and she is a friend of Pomponia’s. She is plain and chubby, but she has her own villa.

A friend of Pomponia’s? How old is she?

About my age.

Your age? How does she have her own villa?

Her owners were killed in Pompeii. No one has come to claim the villa, and the other slaves have run away. She buys food and clothes in the forum as she always did, signing for them, no questions asked.

Pomponia must have taken pity on the girl and befriended her, more than she did for Marcellina and Marcia. The money will run out one day, and remember the sex talk I gave you. You don’t want to get a girl pregnant.

It is not like that, because she will not allow it. And would it matter? She is just a slave.

Yes, it would matter, you little shit. You can’t get Nona pregnant and leave her to raise a child on her own. You have to enjoy her responsibly. Can he do that in a time with no contraceptives?

It is not like that, and pregnancy is a woman’s problem.

Nate gave Scaevola a sideways look. Talk to note.

13. Talk to Hippocrates about local birth control methods.

14. Search the net for ancient birth control methods.

Hippocrates recommended two plants; rue, a bluey-green herb, and wild carrot, the leaves of which resembled lace. Lucius sourced them.

I

You cannot dine with him. That would be a social engagement. You could both be sentenced to death.

Yes I know, Jucia. But it was the way he asked, not having any thought for where we would dine. He wants to spend time with me.

It was nice, but if you are to see him it needs to be at his shop. Disguise your socialising.

I

Sitting on his brown leather chair in an office lined with bookshelves, Saxby looked back from the neatly trimmed garden outside his window to pen notes on the world of time travelling Nate. A sinuous, dapper little man with thick round spectacles, Saxby disapproved of electronic records; computers could be hacked.

His antique, rotary dial, wooden box telephone rang. Good evening. Saxby here.

We have allowed your contact with Scaevola to continue because it interests us. But why demonstrate to Nate that we can control his phone? You know the protocol. They do not need to know we are listening.

No greeting. Bob, is it? That listening protocol is, as I am sure you are aware, an American constraint, not British.

Why did you demonstrate our access to his cell phone?

Everyone needs to know his or her place in society. Those of lesser abilities need to be educated regarding ours.

We agree. Your access to our satellites will be removed for five weeks.

That is not in accordance with our agreement.

We are demonstrating our superior abilities. Nate is not to be contacted until he arrives in Judea. Bob and his superiors, all good Christians, had plans for the man in the past.

I

Aqua woke first, jumping between his big brothers to wake them. Hey Nate, watch this, he whispered as he rolled on his side to fart in Scaevola’s direction, laughing with a hand over his mouth at his achievement only to be rewarded with a punch in the back. Ohhhh that hurt.

Then do not fart on me.

Can I fart in his direction too? Nate whispered in Aqua’s ear.

Yes. Go on. Do it, Nate, do it. Aqua nodded eagerly, whispering from behind his hand as he rubbed his sore back.

Pfffffffffffffffffrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrtttttttttttttt…pffffrrttttt…pfrt…pfffffrrrrrrrrrtttttt t...t...t.

Ohhhhhhh. You did that on me.

Yeah, and it was also in his direction, and you said that was OK, so…

You tricked me.

Sure did. Nate tickled him. You need to listen to understand what is being said.

Oh Jupiter. And you need to cut down on the fish pickle. Scaevola was holding his nose, and so was Aqua.

I

Talk to note.

15. Organise a day and time with Spartacus to set off for Judea.

I

Caligula stood on his imperial platform, feet apart, arms crossed, his skin pasty from too little sun and his eyes squinting from too much of it. He peered down his nose to caged lions below him on the dusty amphitheatrum floor, and around the arena to his people as they pumped fists to chests to straight-armed salutes, shouting, CAESAR, CAESAR, CAESAR! It was energy-charged, ancient theatre and Nate, not wanting to miss the moment, acted as the old saying said to pump fist to chest to straight-armed salute in unison with the crowd, Spartacus doing likewise beside him. Thousands of legionnaires were marching into the amphitheatrum through the Gates of Life, crashing swords onto shields as they marched in step with their drums.

We go to Judea to kill and be killed. I will be a part of a Roman legion. Nates fists were clenched at his sides.

The clash of swords, pounding of fists, and shouts of CAESAR continued until the last legionnaire marched in. When Caesar held up his sword, the descent into silence was immediate.

Romans know the value of unity. Nate looked around to see all eyes focused on their leader. This is like Hitler and his hordes. Adolf could hold a crowd in silence for half an hour before speaking. How will Caligula justify the need for war against the Jews? While in bed the previous night, Nate researched the events that led to Vespasian and Titus being ordered into Judea. This war would become known as the First Great Jewish Revolt, and it should not be happening now. Nero should be emperor, not Caligula. No matter—I am here, and from Cicero’s briefing the reasons are similar.

Greeks in Jerusalem had sacrificed animals outside a synagogue, provoking a populace already angered by heavy taxation into sacking the city’s treasury. The Romans reacted with the arrests and crucifixions, massacring eight thousand Jews. The Jews erupted into open rebellion, attacking a Roman garrison, and destroying effigies of Jupiter. The Jews may have had solid grounds for complaint, but Caligula was in no mood to listen as a shackled, trembling, half-naked rebel was kicked in the back and forced onto all fours before him.

OUR place in OUR Empire, as guardians of the civilised world, DEMANDS we once more go to war. Caligula brought his sword down on the rebel’s neck with two hands, severing the man’s head and kicking it into the lion’s cage. The cats roared and the horde chanted CAESAR, CAESAR, CAESAR, as swords clashed with shields. The rebels body was hurled into the cage. The power and passion of the army, the people and the feasting cats had Nate’s chest rising and falling, peace comes at a price, as the leader of the horde held up his bloodied sword.

Silence, punctuated by the sound of lions competing for food, flowed from the upraised sword.

It is our duty to show the ignorant and the uneducated, he sliced his sword through the air, that the Roman way is the only true way, that Roman gods are the only true gods. They cannot attack our gods and expect no response. A PRICE MUST BE PAID.

CAESAR, CAESAR, CAESAR.

We control lands from Gaul to Hispania, Numidia to Egypt, from Arabia to Thrace, Macedonia, and Dacia. Caligula’s sword flailed in the direction of each land. Hardship, danger, and pain are the price of glory. We paid that price to gain those lands and shall pay it once more to subdue Judea, casting out those who seek to take it from us. We cannot, and WILL NOT allow revolts to succeed. We MUST ensure that the deeds of our men who spilled their blood for the glory of Rome are immortalised by Rome forever.

CAESAR, CAESAR, CAESAR.

The chanting was doused by a slowly rising hand.

We shall make them feel the pain that Rome can inflict upon its enemies, and we shall enjoy the fear in their eyes when they recognise their fate to be no more than corpses under our sandals.

CAESAR! CAESAR! CAESAR! The clash of metal upon metal rang through the stadium.

We? Spartacus asked. Is he joining us?

I think it is the royal ‘we,’ Nate replied.

Royal ‘we’?

Keep listening. And they did for the next half hour, to the emperor, the lions, and to the men immediately below them commenting on the money the emperor was spending.

He squanders more coin on floating brothels than he invests in Rome.

What I could do with a fraction of his shameless profligacy.

A fortune to the pauper is a pittance to the prince, Nate said, leaning towards Spartacus so those in front could not hear.

What? Spartacus asked. A philosopher now, are you?

I was listening to these men. Whether the philosophy is mine or anothers, I am not sure. I have read so much of late trying to impress Cicero.

Your wealth must be accumulating with your success. Why bother with that worn-out old man?

Wisdom is more valuable than possessions, less valuable than good friends. I want all three, and need the former to properly appreciate the latter.

As Caligula spoke, legionnaires parted, and the amphitheatrum’s central channel descended to fill with water. Barges made passage to the centre of the arena hauled by oiled slaves shouldering thick braided ropes, their freight an assortment of dead and dying Jews, some screaming as nails were hammered through their hands and feet. Nate shivered, took a deep breath, and hid his discomfort from Spartacus.

Crucifixions, get your crucifixions, came the call of a peddler, a slave to the merchant who had imported the trinkets for the occasion.

They are carved in Hispania, Spartacus explained.

Should I go to Judea and face more of this? I must. Something is pulling me. He stared at the peddler, pondering the man’s background. Lucius does business in Hispania. He might own that man. Harmless little Lucius, a man who wouldn’t hurt a fly, selling a symbol of death that will become a symbol of sacrifice and peace. What am I involved in?

The oiled slaves leant back, ploughed their heels into the dirt, and tensioned their ropes against their fellows to hold the barges steady to enable legionnaires to leap aboard and amplify the writhing of the Jews with spears. Caligula ignored the agony of his enemies, finished his speech, turned his back on his troops, and departed.

That will not be well received. It was the man immediately in front of them, and Nate turned to Spartacus for and explanation.

It is customary for the emperor to see the last legionnaire away before departing himself. To leave before then is considered an insult, disrespectful.

What a fool our emperor is.

It is a different view from up here.

Is it? I hope never to see the arena from the floor as you have. When do you plan to leave for Judea?

In a few weeks, enough time to allow the troops to make camp. I do not travel to Judea to callous my hands on camp building. I go to cover myself in the blood of Rome’s enemies, to play a part in a famous victory. Fame allows a man’s name to escape the shackles of life.

I

Talk to note.

16. Aub, Aldegund, and Anzo. How do I take revenge for their murder of Marcellina?

You have to get over that, Nate. It was not your fault. I still dream of her.

"End note. Whether I was responsible or not, I want revenge on those sick bastards. Talk to note."

17. Amanda’s problem in getting pregnant.

Is she pregnant?

"End note. No, and that is the problem. Amanda and Publius want to have children, and Amanda can’t because of her contraceptive implant."

Contra what plant?

Contraceptive implant. With it, a woman can enjoy herself as much as she wants and never fall pregnant. Amanda will need it removed, or it to fail, before she can bear a child.

Talk to note.

18. What to do about Philandros trying to take advantage of Amanda?

I would take advantage of her too. She is more attractive than Nona.

"End note. She’s going to marry Publius, you little shit, and I’m trying to figure out how to get Philandros to keep his hands off her, not let you get your hands on her. Can Nona read? I could have Philandros give her literacy lessons?"

No, she cannot, and she does not need him.

"I see. Better to keep her illiterate than risk her virtue. Talk to note."

19. Amanda and Rabirius producing maps of the world.

The legions already have maps.

"End note. You can’t stop interrupting, can you?"

Scaevola shrugged.

Do they have maps of Asia, North and South America, the Indian Ocean, Pacific Ocean, and Australia? Do they?

Scaevola offered nothing more than another shrug.

No, they don’t, so Amanda and I should be getting paid for all that information.

Can I get a percentage?

Can you draw a map of any of those places?

Another shrug.

"So no, you can’t. Talk to note."

20 Fulvia and Pomponia. What to do with them?

Will you stop your ‘talk to note’ crap? I need sleep.

End note.

What to do about Pomponia. Despite Nate having told her he was in love with another, she still wanted him. Fulvia, the passionate old cook, continued to expose her breasts and crotch-clutch him in the kitchen.

I

It had been a week since Spartacus had set the date for their departure, longer than that since Nate had last been with Pomponia, and there were only three days to go before the start of what Nate intended to be a few celibate months in Judea. He was already finding his self-imposed celibacy a hard road to hoe and hoped the mystery detour promised by Spartacus would divert his mind from bawdy desires.

Scaevola, you won’t forget to visit the Temple of the Vestals to deliver messages I send for Julia, will you?

No.

Have you ever been to Judea?

No.

I didn’t think so, but I was wondering how long it would take to get there from Lake Nemi. Spartacus didn’t tell me how long it will take, and he says he wants to show me something at Lake Nemi first. Do you know what that might be? Nate didn’t want to research it on the net, preferring to be surprised on arrival. I wonder if Julia will be there. Probably no reason she would. We still haven’t been for dinner.

No.

OK. Don’t forget to continue supplying Pomponia with potion in my absence.

No.

And don’t forget to keep supplying the palace like I told you.

No.

Are you listening?

No. I am searching the net for... WHACK. Piss off.

It’s rude not to listen when someone is talking to you.

I

21. Sarai and Glade and Porcia. Will Porcia keep her promise while I’m away?

Why are you bothering with that, Nate? Glade has not a hope in Hades of getting Sarai out of the palace.

"End note. I promised to help if I can, and I intend to keep my promise."

You told me Porcia was not being honest with Glade. Nate hadn’t told Scaevola of Porcia’s threat to Aelia’s reputation. There is no way she is going to help. She has already started breaking her promise to service Cicero by sending him those three courtesans. What were their names…Boobia, Bumia, and…Somethingia?

Boobia, Jucia, and Hornia. And she has not broken her promise; she is adding to it by sending them. Cicero tells me Porcia is still seeing him. Anyway, Porcia likes my potion, and…

She likes money more, I would say.

Maybe, but as I was saying, Porcia likes my potion, and if she doesn’t get it, then over time it could affect her health, and…

There is no way she will help, Nate.

AND…as she gets older she will realise that her health is more important than money. AND, he raised his voice again to cut Scaevola off, then she might help Glade if I withdraw my potion.

AND…as I told you, she will not help. Idiot.

I

He had an utter disregard of expense, caring for nothing so much as to do what men said was impossible. —Suetonius, Life of Caligula

I

It was in the cool of evening when Spartacus and Nate descended from the Temple of Diana, an aging, melancholy, crescent shaped pantheon overlooking the circular, volcanic Lake Nemi six leagues to the south east of Rome. The temple had been in use by three veiled priests in flowing white cloaks performing a ceremony on a bound and naked female.

Why was she sacrificed? For Nate, his hands clenched into fists, the sight of the young woman on an altar freshened memories of Marcellina’s death.

I do not know. As I told you, the wise do not disturb the rituals of priests. Spartacus was focused on the narrow, overgrown path that led to the lake’s shore. Their business is not ours.

Stuff their ceremonies. Unholy sectarian shitheads! Nate’s attempt to halt the ceremony had been thwarted by the strong arms of his companion.

I

Haifa enjoyed life on the emperor’s new ship, her home on Lake Nemi. Another, smaller ship was also on the lake, but she had not lived on board it. Her ship had nice trees with fruit she could pick and eat, and lovely green grass she could lie upon to look at the stars. Some stars looked like the stars in the night sky of her homeland, near the pyramids. They could not be the same stars. This lake was a long way from her pyramids.

Her new home was long, and Haifa often became lost when she first arrived. There was always someone to guide her back to her room though, or a man to take her to another. Spurius, the friendly man who had welcomed her to the ship on her first day had told her, Say yes to everything, and you and I and our guests will be happy. Being a good girl, Haifa did as she was told. She said yes to the lovely clothes, she said yes to the lovely food, and she said yes to every request from every man. She was happy, and so were the men she said yes to.

Some of the other girls were silly to sometimes say no, and Haifa thought those girls were not as happy as she. Spurius helped them though. He was kind. He taught them how to say yes. Haifa already knew how to say yes, and the more she said yes the more men liked her; men liked to know they excited her.

Sometimes men did things that hurt her, but only sometimes, not often. Today there were three men wanting to worship her. They said she was beautiful. She had never thought of herself as beautiful, and still did not, despite them saying so. They said they would worship her on the shore, not on the ship, worship her as a goddess on a pedestal at a temple on the hill overlooking the lake.

No one had worshiped her before, not really. Sometimes Spurius put her on a pedestal at night to dance in beautiful clothes or no clothes, and everyone said how beautiful she was, but that was not worshiping. These men said they would worship her. She said yes to that. Haifa would be a goddess this evening.

I

A slim girl with flawless olive skin lay naked on her back on the altar of Diana, her outstretched arms and legs tied to torch-lit columns of the surrounding colonnade, her face covered by a wolf’s head mask. Goose pimples covered her as she trembled in the cool evening air while a heavyset priest beat a growing rhythm on a bass drum. A second priest, not as tall as the first, began oiling the girl to then strigil her body clean. The third priest held tight to control lines that ran through timber pulleys attached to the cornices of the temple columns to position a life-sized statue of Priapus over the girl. The statues hollow bronze body was ablaze with small fires, the tip of