The Last Day

By Christine Michaels

"Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindred's of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen" (Revelation 1:7, KJV).

Too many people speculate and wonder about the end. but nobody seems to care or worry about how it will begin.

With the chaos and acts of violen

• Language: English
• Publisher: Trilogy Christian Publishing
• Release date: Jan 18, 2022
• ISBN: 9781637698396

Christine Michaels

The author served in the armed forces for over thirty years. During his travels, he has seen conflict, assault on U.S. consulate, other acts of terror and vengeance by people who seemed to have lost hope. In searching for God, he has seen many cultures of the world, leading him to the Word, telling him to learn, pray and watch (Mark 13:33). This is the inspiration behind this book, The Last Day.

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The Last Day

by

Christine Michaels

Trilogy Christian Publishers

TUSTIN, CA

The Last Day

Trilogy Christian Publishers A Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Trinity Broadcasting Network

2442 Michelle Drive Tustin, CA 92780

Copyright © 2021 by Christine Michaels

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the King James Version (KJV). Public domain.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without written permission from the author. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

Rights Department, 2442 Michelle Drive, Tustin, CA 92780.

Trilogy Christian Publishing/TBN and colophon are trademarks of Trinity Broadcasting Network.

For information about special discounts for bulk purchases, please contact Trilogy Christian Publishing.

Trilogy Disclaimer: The views and content expressed in this book are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views and doctrine of Trilogy Christian Publishing or the Trinity Broadcasting Network.

Manufactured in the United States of America

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data is available.

ISBN: 978-1-63769-838-9

E-ISBN: 978-1-63769-839-6

Contents

Introduction v

Chapter 1. Ancient Rome: The Centurion 1

Chapter 2. Present Day: The Man and the Prelude 25

Chapter 3. Ancient Rome: The Pax 52

Chapter 4. Present Day: The Decision 64

Chapter 5. Ancient Rome: Iudea 84

Chapter 6. Present Day: The Pre-emptive Strike 92

Chapter 7. Ancient Rome: To Jerusalem 101

Chapter 8. Present Day: The Response 120

Chapter 9. Ancient Rome: The Hebrews 135

Chapter 10. Present Day: The Next Step 147

Chapter 11. Ancient Rome: My Discovery 163

Chapter 12. Present Day: Adaniel Elijah Qum 177

Chapter 13. Ancient Rome: Forest of Tears 195

Chapter 14. Present Day: The Final Solution 209

Chapter 15. Ancient Rome: Passover 227

Chapter 16. Present Day: The Plan 242

Chapter 17. Ancient Rome: The Journey 262

Chapter 18. Present Day: Out of Chaos 274

Chapter 19. Ancient Rome: Finding Jesus 288

Chapter 20. Present Day: The Proposal 304

Chapter 21. Ancient Rome: The Rich Man 317

Chapter 22. Present Day: The European Union 328

Chapter 23. Ancient Rome: The Anticipation 339

Chapter 24. Present Day: The Meeting in Jordan 349

Chapter 25. Ancient Rome: Those Pharisees 360

Chapter 26. Present Day: Implementation 373

Chapter 27. Ancient Rome: The Plot 393

Chapter 28. Present Day: The Miracle 402

Chapter 29. Ancient Rome: The Argument 413

Chapter 30. Present Day: Best Laid Plans 425

Chapter 31. Ancient Rome: The Questioning 441

Chapter 32. Present Day: The Assassination 455

Chapter 33. Ancient Rome: For Thirty Pieces of Silver 467

Chapter 34. Present Day: The Abomination of Desolation 481

Chapter 35. Ancient Rome: The Skull 501

Chapter 36. Present Day: The Deception 529

Chapter 37. Ancient Rome: He's Risen 544

Chapter 38. Present Day: Re-education 556

Chapter 39. Ancient Rome: The Last Day 571

Chapter 40. Present Day: The Last Day 577

Endnotes 590

Introduction

In the beginning, God created the heavens and this world, giving dominion to the man, Adam, the caretaker of His creation. God placed a piece of heavenly paradise on earth called Eden. There was only one command that the man had to abide by to remain in it.¹ His failure to do so, listening to someone other than God, resulted in his expulsion. And enmity² between good and evil for man’s heart began. However, God promised that He would provide a means for redemption, a way back to paradise.

The first promised redemption occurred during the time of ancient Rome, while the second is yet to come.

This is that story: in ancient Rome through the eyes of a centurion and his journey. And the second through the eyes of a man present day. The centurion, like most soldiers, goes where they are ordered. His journey will take him to the Middle East, where he will encounter a religious world that desires a savior, a messiah, a king that will free them of the tyranny and the yoke placed under them.

The man and his family living present day are experiencing the conditions that society has migrated to over the eons. From the paradise in Eden through today, the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.³ The man will live through the culmination of this evil, while mankind wishes for paradise on earth.

In ancient Rome, the last day is when all realize that the hope they have wished for has vanished, and in the present day, the appearance on that last day in which hope returns for an instant. God’s words in the Gospels and John’s Revelation from Jesus Christ tell us of things to come and to watch and choose hope. For the centurion, the opportunity occurred two millennia ago. And for the man and others, the opportunity is now, before hope is to come. What will they choose?

• Chapter 1 •

Ancient Rome:

The Centurion

Ancient Rome, a city of about a million people⁴ that rules a quarter of the known world. It is the most powerful and influential Empire on the earth. Rome’s military dominates the entire known western world with a force of more than 300,000 strong.⁵ It was the standard by which other fighting forces are judged.

The city offered its people luxuries not always available in other parts of the empire. With the standards of that day, the disparity between wealthy and poor is well defined. For the select elites that could afford it, extravagance was ubiquitous. In it lives a Centurion, Longinus,⁶ his wife Cassia, his two children, and slaves. He is enjoying the reprieve of war being in Rome for several months after years of fighting for the empire. The Centurion is enjoying the time with family, his horses, and dog. Life is good!

In their personal life, the Roman soldier differed greatly, mirroring those of its citizens. The rich lived in their costly dwellings, a life in luxury and busy idleness. The wealth they garnered by inheritance or by extortion. The poorer citizen’s content with an attic-sized room in some tenement, and their daily allowance of grain, and free admission to the games and the baths. Buildings throughout the city are magnificent.⁷ Streets, though narrow on many occasions, are full of people going about the chores of daily life in such a great ancient city—foods so varied for shoppers, slaves for sale, clothing for purchase, and so much more.

Tiberius Caesar, the ruler of Rome, is in his palace overlooking the city that rules the known world. Lucius Aelius Sejanus,⁸ a close advisor, came to Tiberius with a request. He received a message from Tiberius’ close friend in Judea, Pontius Pilate, asking for additional soldiers. He informed Caesar that the request came from the Imperial Legate of Legio X Fretensis, Publius Lucius Aelius Lamia.⁹ He sent his request through Pilate for submission to the Senate and Tiberius. Tiberius relegating most of the political activities to the senate directed Sejanus to inform the senate of the request, and he would approve whatever they decided.

#

And for me, Centurion Longinus, life was good. What a beautiful spring day. The aroma in the air smells of the business of things blooming. Outside of the upper window, you can hear the clamor of activity in the street. The sun is rising in its full glory, wrapping its warmth around the morning. The markets are open, and one can hear the clanking of shoes on the cobblestone streets as people peruse their day’s events in the shops. Citizens of Rome are going about their business gathering the goods for the next few days before the activity is repeated all over again. The smell of fresh-baked bread permeates the air competing with all the other scents teasing one’s senses.

You want to savor the moment. Sargento, he barks at whatever flies by the window and at the ruckus in the nearby marketplace. I give him a little swat on the butt, and the stern look quiets him down. A faithful servant and friend, a Molossian hound, one could not ask for a better protector or more faithful companion.

The two of us sense that there will be an interruption with our tranquility sometime during the day. But until then…

Sargento, are you ready for today? Let’s take our daily walk, why don’t we.

He just turns his head with excitement, anticipation, and an understanding too that the quiet will soon be transformed. Yes, a gorgeous day it will be, and Sargento’s enthusiasm will not abate for now. I must prepare to dress for the occasion.

Marcus, please get my uniform so that I and Sargento may take a morning stroll!

Marcus is a faithful servant, as is his younger brother Ananias. They were both captured during the Third Campaign in Germania at the battle of the Idistaviso.¹⁰ The two were servants to Arminius,¹¹ one of their leaders, thought to be killed during this battle. Later we heard that Arminius was only wounded. Not participating in the fight against the legionnaires, unarmed and not part of the Germania rebellion but slaves, I decided I would take them as servants for my household.

The Third Campaign in Germania was revenge for the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest,¹² where three Roman Legions were ambushed and massacred. Many within the legion were killed, maimed, and never the same. But all were brave, never flinching at what they were to do, and did it with one thing in mind, for Rome. The Third Campaign in Germania was our time to seek revenge. I myself was injured, in the arm; my sight not as good as it once was but still good enough to fight and distinguish Roman Soldiers from our foe.

During the battle of Idistaviso, the slaughter continued from early morning to the fifth hour. For miles the ground littered with corpses. Germanicus, the adopted son of Tiberius, was the commander of the Roman forces during this battle. Germanicus orders were, Take no prisoners!¹³ After our victory, the legionnaires raised a mound with the inscription: The army of Tiberius Caesar, after thoroughly conquering the tribes between the Rhine and the Elbe, has dedicated this monument to Mars, Jupiter, and Augustus.¹⁴ I found two young children in the tent of Arminius, Marcus, and Ananias. They were twelve and ten at the time. Dirty, shivering, and huddled together, I could not end their lives. So I brought them back to Rome after the campaign.

They were under my care, becoming servants, and over the years have become part of the household. Marcus and his brother have been good confidants and great additions to the family for the past ten years. I have asked Marcus to prepare my uniform for the walk with Sargento.

A red double-pleated kilt like undergarment, Loricae Squamatae,¹⁵ coated in silver color, my sword passed down from my father and his father, greaves for protecting legs from the knee down to the foot and my helmet with a transverse made of dark black horsehair; that I will not wear today. Marcus prepared and helped to dress me for the occasion. A stroll did not require me to wear everything but just enough that the citizens knew I was a Centurion in the Roman Legion and would therefore make appropriate way. I did not see the need to wear greaves but did carry my father’s sword.

Marcus tightens the straps for the Loricae Squamatae, making sure that it will not loosen during my stroll. Don’t need the red cloak but will take my vitis¹⁶ to keep disruptors in line. Marcus does a once-over to make sure I am presentable. He and Ananias were well instructed on how to dress a Centurion in their battle garb upon my return home from the Germania Campaign. Both are now very happy to be here. Marcus is just about finished, a minor adjustment here and there.

Marcus, my friend, thank you! And while I’m gone on my walk, please keep an eye out on the household until my return. Where is Ananias? I would like for him to join me.

Marcus goes on the search for his brother, and both return after a short moment.

Master Longinus, I have informed my brother that he will be joining you and Sargento on your walk. And do not fret but enjoy your stroll with Sargento; I will, as always, take care of the house while you are gone.

Leaving the upper chambers and departing for the morning, I say a temporary farewell to my Cassia, my wife¹⁷ of many years. She is fairer than I can say. Her hair is long flowing, fair in color and texture, a figure that would make even the goddess Venus¹⁸ envious. Her blue eyes captivate one’s attention. And when Cassia walks, she does so with such affection that I melt in her arms upon her embrace. But that will have to wait. It is time for our morning walk, Sargento, Ananias, and I.

Ah, what a breath of fresh air. I have to restrain Sargento as his excitement continues to rise. After a few stadia,¹⁹ we come to what beckons the senses. The people are filling the cobblestone street looking and admiring at the wears of the marketplace; fresh fruits and vegetables, some of which were shipped in from the east. Meats of different types, fresh rabbits, some already skinned and hanging for view and selection, the butchers swatting away the pesky flies, chickens, and other fowls and eggs, if that suits one’s palate. Sargento is barking at the animals in the market.

There are fresh olives, pomegranates, nuts, and so much more for the choosing. Wheat for baking, potatoes, and rice abound as well. A man and his mule are pulling carts of fresh cabbage, lettuce, and other green vegetables competing with local merchants. Like little children full with excitement, Ananias and Sargento are taking it all in.

The forum²⁰ is the center of activity in the city. Shoppers and merchants alike came to buy and sell. However, buyers are at their own risk from ruthless merchants. Unless they verify their purchase at a table that confirms weights and measures, one could be taken; otherwise, the people risk being cheated, a prevalent act of many merchants. On occasions one could hear the local politicians give speeches, few shoppers cared unless it had an impact on them. On our stroll, we can hear the chanting of prayer in the temples of the gods. Passing the bathhouses we see the steam rise, giving a sense of soothing even to the passersby.

Further on our walk to another section of the city, we see indentured servants and slaves being auctioned to the highest bidder. I can see Ananias’s face—an umbrage expression of what could have been. Brothels, women of the night, even this early, entice the men with their virtues now a distraction for Ananias. Children are at play oblivious of their surroundings, in a world of their own making. Taking a different direction, one can go and see the poorer part of Rome, something I have no desire to see or share with Ananias.

As we continue, in the distance we can see the view of the Circus Maximus.²¹ The word is spreading around of the events for tomorrow. Gladiator fights and chariots and archers with pagans for target. Animals from all over the empire are on display. A ludi²² was declared for a few days, a holiday proclaimed by Caesar. There is much that has been approved by Tiberius Caesar²³ and the senate to keep the people entertained and happy.

Games, a distraction from the harshness of everyday life that the senate created, seem to be a daily occurrence. Taxes by Caesar for campaigns; farmers and merchants are paying with a portion of their merchandise. This is passed on to the shoppers, and over time, it is more and more. The appetite from the emperor for expanding the empire never seems enough, and the grumbling by the people simmers each season.

However, what can one say about Rome? It is the wonder of the world. The city that grew into an empire is carrying stability, learning, culture to an otherwise pagan world. Rome is bringing civility to people one way or the other. A growl heard.

Sargento, what is it?

Ananias recognizes the voice, already looking through the crowd to see Marcus making his way towards us. I look around and see nothing out of the ordinary; people chatter, children play, marketers selling their wears, but a vague and familiar voice pierces through the noise. As it gets closer, it becomes recognizable.

Master, Master Longinus!

It is Marcus running, making his way through the crowd, not exhausted but still feeling the effects of his search for me. He hugs Ananias and then turns his attention back to me.

What is it, Marcus, that brings you here? Is the family okay? Cassia, Junia, and Lucius?

Master, no, no, nothing like that! A soldier came to the villa with a message from the senate and signed by Tiberius Caesar. Hurry!

So this is the anticipated interruption. A Letter from the senate signed by Caesar means only one thing a new assignment to another garrison or orders to go on another campaign, expanding the reach of the empire and the rule of Caesar.

Marcus, go tell Cassia I’ll be home shortly and take Ananias with you. I will finish my walk with Sargento and then return.

Yes, Master Longinus.

Marcus takes a recuperative breath, and then he and Ananias are on their way back to the villa. My anticipation is calmed by the return of the bustle of the marketplace and the people busy about their ways, the commotion with Marcus but a tiny ripple to all around. After a few more moments, I give a slight tug on Sargento, and we turn back towards home; Marcus and Ananias, even now, are out of sight. We take our time knowing that the news will take us away from Rome, family, and friends.

My return to the villa was slow and deliberate as I did not want to read the news I already suspected. It is another departure from family. My thoughts oblivious to the surroundings, the hustles and bustle of what I had previously encountered; Merchants, shops, and people. My only thoughts now are of Cassia, family, and the villa that I will probably have to leave.

As Sargento and I approached the villa, we see Cassia at the door in anticipation of my arrival. Sargento breaks away; dragging his lead behind, seeing Cassia there was no stopping him. He is running with the expectation of a greeting only given by love. That is Cassia! Sargento slides as he tries to stop and stumbles but regains his composure and sits in front of Cassia, panting for the greeting.

Not to disappoint, Cassia slowly kneels down, the joy and love in her eyes for Sargento, her hands caressing his head, and nose to nose, I can hear her adulation for him, Marcus and Ananias behind in the doorway. Sargento’s acknowledgment is a continuous snuggle and licking of Cassia’s face and a tail-wagging ever faster, indicating his pleasure and thankfulness. As I get closer, both finish their admiration of the other, and now all focus their attention on me. I give Cassia a warm embrace knowing this would have to last for a long time. She too understood the meaning and returned the same ending with a kiss.

Longinus, my darling, a soldier brought a message from the Senate. I don’t know what it is.

That is not true; she knew after so many previous scenes like this. I did appreciate the innocence she pretended to display. A scroll with the seal of Tiberius Caesar—it must be important. Breaking the seal and opening the scroll quietly reading it to myself. It dictates that I go to the garrison in Caesarea,²⁴ on the Mediterranean coast. I looked up at Cassia; without her reading it, she already acknowledges what she suspected was in the parchment. As a wife of a Centurion, she understands what it means to receive orders from the senate and Caesar. We have been through these moments before. After many campaigns on behalf of the empire, one would think there would be less and less need for such expeditions.

After the moment of silence has passed, we once more embrace one another, knowing it will have to last for a long time. The last time it was over two years before my return home. This time we do not know, but it will be at least that long if not longer. Worst of all, it says immediately; no time for real goodbyes.

Marcus and Ananias are already getting things together for the journey to Ostia,²⁵ a rich, bustling maritime city. We must leave the pleasantries and comforts of Rome and travel to Ostia just a short half day’s travel about 160 stadia²⁶ outside of Rome. I will take Ananias with me, and Marcus will join us to Ostia until we board the ship, the Pax that will take us to the garrison in Caesarea. We will have to stay overnight in Ostia, and then Ananias and I will board the warship for passage. Once we get to Ostia, Marcus, Ananias, and I may take to the baths of Neptune.²⁷ We will spend the night with a friend, Cornelius Gaius Magnus, and make a stop at the Insula of the Thermopolium,²⁸ a place I visited before, serving fine wine and other lavish brews hot and cold.

Back to packing and getting ready to leave, I want to ensure that I have my uniform, rations, and plenty of Denarius²⁹ for buying supplies. Ananias will prepare Hector, my horse, for travel. Hector is a fabulous beast. He is about fifteen hands, muscular, light brown, with a mane that made him look regal. He has seen much in his lifetime and has a few battle scars. But now he will carry me to Ostia and then return home. He is no young stallion, and I hope he will still be here upon my return years from now. I know that Marcus will take good care of him as he is my favorite of the steeds I own and Lucius will exercise him.

The evening with Cassia will be special. As in the past, we say our farewells in a most romantic venture, knowing it will be a long while before we can enjoy each other again. Cassia has the servants prepare dinner, and the evening weather is accommodating us as well. Clear skies, stars flickering, and a mild breeze are setting the mood. Both of us have conversations about life but mostly silence with stares of affection. Once we have finished our meal, we ready ourselves for the night. A bath together that leads us to the rest of the evening.

#

It is morning and time to make our way. Saying farewell to Cassia is never easy. Our daughter, Junia, a fair girl of thirteen years, is in the image of her mother, and Lucius, her brother of sixteen years, is a handsome, rugged-looking man. His face strong squared, with muscular tone; he works the fields, also training and learning the skills of swordsmanship. I have not seen many better than Lucius with a sword or a bow and arrow. He has mastered them both. I know that with Lucius and Marcus, I have no fear that Cassia, Junia, the house, animals, and land will be well cared for.

Mounting Hector and Marcus nearby mounting Adonis and Ananias mounting Ajax, I begin my journey. I ride away and, with one last turn of my head, look at Cassia and all that I will be leaving. My heart saddens. Having done this many times, it is still none the easier, not knowing when I will return or if I will. Our glance, eyes meeting for a final moment of adulation for each other, I can see the tears swell up in Cassia. Slowly turning my head down and back to the way ahead, I too hold back the flood. Marcus, understanding what he has seen before, too rides nearby, with ever so slight of a gesture, acknowledgment of the moment, and a reassurance that all will be well, Ananias not far behind.

We make our way out of Rome, leaving behind the pleasantries of the night before. The stables behind us now in the distance, we continue on our way to Ostia. Before us, the path guarded by Roman pines on either side, standing tall as if to salute in recognition of things yet to come. The roads mostly clear with peasants traveling to and from Ostia. Wagons filled with merchandise, food, and other possessions cherished by would-be travelers. Green grass as far as the eye can see, small hills dotting either side of the road and our way. As we leave the main city, the outskirts of Rome, in the distance, one can hear moaning, sounds of sadness. As we approach a hill with Rome behind us, the moaning increasing. In cresting the hill and in the distance, we can see the cause—lines of crucified men:³⁰ slaves, vial criminals, murderers, and deserters who failed Rome and in whom it has seen fit to punish in this way.

Each man’s punishment would have been dependent on the crime³¹ as prescribed by Roman law. They would be stripped of their pride, hands tied over their heads to a post. The scourging³² would expose flesh peeling back skin on the back, buttocks and legs, depending on where the soldier’s lashes met the criminal. They would scream in such agony that, if they have not fainted after the ninth or tenth flogging, soldiers would have to cover their ears due to the death-piercing sound. Once the scourging is completed, the victim would be taken to the site for crucifixion,³³ carrying the crossbeam himself and outstretched arms tied to it. At the appointed site, he would be thrown to the ground on his back with his forearm tied to the crossbar and his wrists then nailed to it, after which point he would be lifted onto the planted post. The feet fixed to the cross with nails or rope or both. The entire time the victim would resist, cursing and spewing profanities at the soldiers. The final humiliation would be a sign draped on top of the post stating his name and crime. Then, if that was not enough, the taunting might begin if it had not already by the spectators. Needless to say, this was not the desired way for a family to see a loved one die.

As we continued over the hill, getting closer, Marcus and Ananias, and I could see about forty such crosses alternating on either side of the road. There is a small group executing a sentence, a centurion in charge, and twelve soldiers finishing their work, looking up at the man with disdain. There is an old man standing there watching, ordinary-looking with a long white beard down to his belly. He seemed to cherish the activity of the Roman soldiers. Above the cross are two crows chattering away, just waiting for what we don’t want to imagine.

We passed others hanging there with family and friends looking on. And others on the cross who have been there for days, death having left them and maggots and foul alike finishing the job, taking morsels off the feast before them. Birds are flying to and from the bodies on display. All are chattering with each other, crackling loudly for all to hear. The soldiers, in turn, look up at the scene; some laugh, others smile with satisfaction, few shooing away the intruders.

Passing the site before us, we can hear the man speaking to the crows on the cross. He called them by name—Raum and Milpas.³⁴ What he mumbled to them we could not make out. The white-bearded man turns his head towards us and watches us as we go by. His eyes seem to stare straight into one’s soul as if wanting to snatch it away from you. Even our steeds act jittery as we pass. A smile as he looked at us, the man bows and says, Furcas³⁵ at your service, my lords, and returns to the view before him, the smile never fading from his face.

Contrary to Furcas, the faces of family and friends filled with tears and horror at the site they have to witness. Unfortunately, only after asking permission,³⁶ paying a fee, and being granted by the magistrate may the family or friends remove the victim from the cross for a proper burial. This is a scene that we would rather not remember as being the last memory departing Rome. A mild kick to Hecker and Adonis with Ajax following, no coaxing required. We quickly pass the stench and morbid sight railing on both sides of our path.

Trying to push out of our minds the memory, we look ahead at the road before us once again, green grasses, flowers blooming with the buzz of bees and birds feeding. The sounds of hummingbirds are flying by and peasants here and there on their way to Rome or Ostia. The sun is at a mid-day high, warming all within its reach. Marcus, Ananias, and I are talking about what he will do while I’m gone and what I can expect at the garrison in Caesarea. The garrison currently houses over three thousand Roman soldiers, with a contingent in Jerusalem³⁷ that is over five hundred stadia from the garrison.

After eighty stadia, we stopped and rested our horses as well as ourselves. Nearby shaded trees cover us and our steeds. Hector, Adonis, and Ajax eating the grass still riddled with dew, even with the height of the midday sun, apparently not burning through the covering of the trees we rest under.

As we lay under the tree, oblivious to the world, my mind wondering what will greet me in Caesarea. I have heard that nothing good has come from the province of Iudaea.³⁸ Word has been coming to Rome of continued rebellion by an unknown group of zealots. Reports from the province indicated that the garrison had to put down a revolt when the Imperial Eagle, a symbol of Rome, was erected by order of the Prefect and was desecrated.³⁹ Many of the zealots were either killed or jailed, waiting for their execution or crucifixion. This is something that we cannot allow; protests against Rome will never be tolerated.

The Legio X Fretensis ⁴⁰(the Tenth Legion of the Strait) is a well-trained, well-organized unit with a great history. It fought under Octavian against Sextus Pompey in the Battle of Naulochus, where it earned its cognomen Fretensis⁴¹ and fought against Mark Anthony.⁴² It is a decorated legion that I will be happy to be part of and where I will command the Fifth Centuriae of the Fourth Cohort.⁴³ My experience is needed since the centurion, as I understand it, now assigned is ailing.

Marcus, you know that this will be a great opportunity to be part of the Tenth Legion. And Cassia knows it as well.

Yes, Master Longinus, she has indicated as much. She and the children will miss you, and I will miss Ananias. You only have been back for about a year and a half, and off you are again.

I know Marcus, and I am grateful that you and Lucius will be there to help them. If it wasn’t for that, I would regret leaving, but now I know everything will be alright. I will look after your brother and make sure he returns home to Rome; I give you my word!

Marcus and I continue our talk while Ananias is asleep, dreaming of unknown pleasantries. In the distance is a commotion—a woman with two children approaching, crying. Marcus gets up and looks in their direction. I too, stand looking, Marcus nudging Ananias from his sleep. We prepare our horses to continue on our way to Ostia. As they get closer, she approaches, and Marcus asks what is making her cry?

My husband is dead, and I have no means to bury him, she tells him.

She described to us what had happened to her family and her husband.

Urban, my husband, was out buying bread and other foods for the family, as she continues to describe the events leading to his death;

In the process, he dropped several coins with the face of Augustus and stepped on a few of them, trying to find and then pick them up. He was approached by a man who said he desecrated the image of Augustus and should ask for forgiveness to him since he is a divine God and Emperor.

When Emperor Augustus died many years ago, the senate, with the backing of Tiberius Caesar, accorded Emperor Augustus divine status, declaring him a god.⁴⁴ Tiberius Caesar introduced the treason law, which was a "crime of majestas" or treason. Anything could be construed as an act of treachery; even defacing a coin with the portrait of the Emperor was considered an act of disloyalty.⁴⁵

She continued, He argued with the man telling him it was an accident; that he didn’t mean to do so. This back and forth continued, and another man showed up, and the two blamed my husband for failure to give divine honors.

Her face was indescribably distraught. She was holding her children close, hugging them as if she would lose them too.

She went on, "We later found out that they were delatores.⁴⁶ He was taken, flogged, and then crucified. We do not have the money to ask permission to take him down and bury him. The magistrate must be paid, and we don’t have enough to do so. I fear that unless we can find help, the birds will have their way with him."

Marcus asked her how much was the charge, and she said a denarius. He gave me a compassionate look, and I knew what he was asking me for. I pulled out my purse and gave Marcus four denarius to give to her. This would help her to bury her husband, Urban, and feed her children for a while as well. She was very grateful, and it was shown by her tears fading and her face now smiling in gratitude. She turned around, never giving us her name, turning to go back to where she had left him.

Marcus and I just looked at each other while Ananias finally awoke, and we got on our mounts and started once more on our journey to Ostia. The images of the crucifixions returned. The bodies of men hanging, some gasping for a last breath, others not recognizable, birds and insects are altering their appearance in a grotesque way. I gave Hector a little kick to the sides to get him to speed us away from that image; Adonis and Ajax followed without any prodding from Marcus or Ananias.

We were about halfway to Ostia. The weather remains the same, spring sun upon us, our mounts enjoying the time away from the stables. Marcus, too, was happy to leave and see something other than Rome while Ananias wondering, not knowing what the journey will bring him. Both never really get to go far on their own.

As slaves, both are tempered by the past from perusing to distant from the villa. There have been many occurrences that Marcus and Ananias have seen at the market; slaves were treated harshly. Some whipped in public, others brutally mutilated for the proprietor’s entertainment in front of spectators. And still, others killed for reasons not explainable by the owner. It was not the norm for a slave to be treated as part of the family. Marcus and Ananias are that to Cassia and me—a family member. Their service and loyalty to us reflect that as well.

After a few hours, in the distance, we now can see Ostia, a port city, the doorway to Rome, and the city that feeds it. Ostia will be the last thing I will see of anything that will remind me of home. The road to Ostia is laden with green grasses, both sides of the road, distracting Hector, Adonis and Ajax. All are hungry, as are we too. That will be one of the first things to do, feed our hunger, going to my friend Cornelius who will take care of our needs. He will provide stables for our mounts and a place to rest for the three of us.

As we approach Ostia, the vitality of the city can be heard. Trees now guide us on the main road leading to the main gate of the city. It is the hub for commerce to Rome. Ships filled with grain, wine, olive oil, gold, and silver from Alexandria, southern Italy, Cyprus, and parts of Africa. Everything that shippers bring is checked, inventoried, cataloged, and stored until needed in Rome. When wanted, small ships pulled by slaves and, in some cases, oxen, come to Ostia down the Tiber River⁴⁷ and fill up with grains, oils, and whatever is requisitioned by Rome.

The Piccolo Mercato,⁴⁸ a huge granary, is where most of the grain that is shipped is stored. The Decumanus Maximus,⁴⁹ the main roadway, divides the city in half, with buildings, temples, homes, stores, and many other amenities on either side. As we approach, dismount, and pass through the main gate, we can smell fresh-baked bread from Caseggiato dei Molini.⁵⁰ The smell fills the air as the ovens smoke billowing from their chimneys, cooking loaves of bread, enough for two thousand people every day. It is a port city with much to see and enjoy. That is Ostia!

I am looking forward to seeing my friend Cornelius and share a drink. Marcus and Ananias will be well cared for by the family and given some parcels for Marcus’s return trip to Rome, the villa, and Cassia. Usually, we shop for things that we cannot immediately get in Rome. We make our way down the Decumanus Maximus and mid-way turn right down another street and in the distance, the villa, and with a knock on the door, Cornelius would be behind it waiting for us. His villa is near the center of town off the Decumanus Maximus. With other wealthy citizens, he is located in an area that is well cared for and far enough away from the hustle and bustle, but close enough one can walk a half hour and be back in the center of Ostia.

I get down off of Hector and approach the villa. The door already opened I can see Cornelius approaching. Marcus and Ananias remain with the horses until I tell them to approach.

Longinus, my friend, how are you? What brings you to Ostia? As we extend our right hand, the greeting of friendship;

Cornelius, my friend, I am doing well. A decree from the senate, signed by Tiberius, brings me here. It looks like I will be part of the Legio X Fretensis garrisoned in Caesarea. Cassia and I have said our farewells, and now that I am here, my friend, I’ll do the same with you.

Come in, Longinus, and ask your servants to do the same. They can stable your horse and theirs behind the villa in the stables with mine.

Turning around I say to Marcus, take Hector and Ananias and the mounts to the stables and stable them for the night. Once done, you and Ananias return and join us.

Yes, Master Longinus!

Cornelius guides me into his home, leading the way. Passing the atrium, a barking greets us. Cornelius’ greyhound is slowly approaching, head slightly down in obedience. A fine figure, deep brown in color, and Cornelius with an outstretched hand beckons him more quickly.

Aello, my boy, greet my friend Longinus. And with that, Aello extends his paw, imitating Cornelius’s greeting but to me this time.

Hey boy, how are you doing? And with the engagement completed a snap of Cornelius’s fingers and Aello flips around and trots off and disappears.

Entering the home of Cornelius, the atrium is adorned with marvelous murals. Some show the campaigns in which Cornelius has fought, and others depicting goddesses. In the center, the impluvium⁵¹ full of water from previous rainfalls from the open roof, allowing light to brighten the place, and today, there is sunshine doing exactly that. A statue of Cornelius in uniform is adorned with his campaign banners. Plants of various types complete the decorum. There are three rooms on both the left and right sides of the atrium. We continued on our way to the peristylum,⁵² an open garden with trees, shrubs, plants, and other flowering growth. Cornelius has already set up a feast for us. A few moments later and Marcus and Ananias join us.

We spent several hours talking about family, what we have been doing since the last time we met, only months ago. The feast that was laid out was amazing—fresh rabbit and hens, rice, nuts of varying kinds, wine of the finest yield, and salads, olives, and other vegetables of choice. Cornelius has not spared anything to treat us with such a banquet.

We also discussed several decrees passed by the senate. One especially that involved a census, the taxing of the people,⁵³ throughout the empire to ensure that appropriate taxation could be implemented. Many people will be against this evasive measure in order to fill the treasury. Yes, things of politics, in public we would have to be careful as we do not know who can be trusted and who might report us that we are speaking against some practices of Rome. In the privacy of his home, our worries abate. Delatores are everywhere. Even Roman citizens are not guaranteed from reprisals if reported. It did not matter if the charges were false. It was the word of the delatores that mattered. Evening is approaching, and I wanted to go to the Insula of the Thermopolium and asked Cornelius if he wanted to join.

We both changed into more casual wear. As the sun went down, the warmth remained in spite of the darkness taking over. The bustling of the evenning can be heard. Marcus and Ananias remained behind and prepared themselves for the night. As we made it closer to the Thermopolium, the nightlife of the city became more evident. The streets of the city filled with life, shoppers, granaries, and women of the night dressed for celebration of any and all occasions. Further along on the Decumanus Maximus, we pass the amphitheater, the roaring of the crowd as the festivities can both be seen and heard. And then we finally reach our destination, the Insula of the Thermopolium.

Inside the great hall stood many partaking of the beverages being offered. Rowdiness has taken over the crowd, and as the evening went on, the louder it became. Cornelius and I spent the evening reminiscing about our time together during the Germania Campaign.⁵⁴ I was with the Sixth Centuriae at the time, and Cornelius was with the Fourth Centuriae. We both lost many good soldiers, but the outcome was never in question. With the Legio X Fretensis and the V Macedonia,⁵⁵ we presented ourselves well. However, we knew there would be more to be done another day.

We finished the night with one final toast and left Thermopolium. The bath of Neptune would have to wait for another time as the morning would come sooner than I would desire. Once back at the villa entering the atrium, Cornelius escorted me to my room, and Marcus and Ananias were already asleep in the servant’s quarters. One final handshake between warriors and the evening was complete.

#

The next morning, Marcus and Ananias were already up getting our mounts ready for the short trip to the harbor. Once we get there, Marcus will return with Hector and Ajax back to Rome. But now, I ready myself for the journey ahead. A final farewell is given to Cornelius. He was ready as well, his steed set to accompanying me one last time and a friendship that knows no bounds.

Cornelius came along, as soldiers do for one another, understanding that the distance to be traveled, though great, would be shared in memory of past ventures. As we trot down the Decumanus Maximus on our steeds, we approach the harbor, and the ships moored. A pentagon-shaped port, buildings at each of the four pares to house supplies and waiting passengers. Ships are seen waiting to be moored others departing. We were looking for the Pax, a military transport ship heading to Caesarea.

• Chapter 2 •

Present Day:

The Man and the Prelude

Three-quarters of a century and what I see happening, the rise of evil every day that I see on the news, I remember when it wasn’t anything like this. People in neighborhoods felt safe and secure, keeping open doors and windows to bring the outside in. Policemen walked the neighborhoods were respected, greeting one another, unlike today. Men, women, and children didn’t have to worry or carry big sticks or other objects for protection. Never did we worry about uninvited or illegal guests⁵⁶ intruding into our everyday lives. Unlike these times, homes didn’t resemble prisons with bars on windows and doors. I have watched over the decades and am convinced that the signs one can read in the Gospels and Revelation if one is watching.⁵⁷ We are in the prelude of what is described in these books.

As evil continues its rise, everyday violence has numbed many to the indecent, barbaric, and immoral acts that are perpetrated daily and seen on the nightly news. Under the guise of socialism, governments have made equal outcomes the new normal—politicians who espouse to be Christian but fail to realize that killing the unborn goes against God.⁵⁸ The disparity between classes, the rich and poor growing, while the middle-class shrinks. For years governments made agreements with despots at the expense of western society.

And then came the unexpected and horrific war. Americans seem to feel it the most, uncharacteristically having stayed neutral for as long as it could with no appetite to get involved in the conflict "over there." Many did not want to fight a third war in support of the fallacies of Europe and the Middle East, especially one that started with a nuclear exchange. But with many countries taking sides and anarchy on the march throughout the world, remaining on the sidelines became intolerable.

As a result, the people were clamoring for hope and change. Barraged for years with negative and false news, subconsciously the Mandela Effect⁵⁹ influencing the people, the constant manipulation of the truth in ways that would make a pretzel seem like a straight line. The people swayed, many with emotional reactions voting socialism as the way to go and thinking. The response by the youthful who were indoctrinated by Marxist curriculums in schools was a predictable outcome. Lessons not learned from past decades; instead, the countries sins must be eradicated by removing our history. This was the socialist’s way of thinking and, in their view, the only way to reconciliation forgiveness for the country.

Peaceful protests against the war transformed to anarchy; justification for looting, arson, and other unlawful acts against any citizen was justified by western socialist governments. The decade-long march by politicians to defund police gave way to the demands from protestors. We were told these are legitimate and peaceful actions, reminiscent of early twenty-first century facades.

The war was the impetuous, a guise, for professed Marxists, who people thought were eccentric; penetrating organizations, unions, hiding antiracists funded by secret foundations, their intent to delegitimizing capitalism. The war did not stop past animosities. The death of one minority by authorities in a metropolis was the justification of mass destruction within cities across the country. Reminiscent of the past, lies were perpetrated by the press and believed, which were fanned by the wild accusations by the media.

Hollywood was no help either. Many actors made speeches and commercials espousing gun control and other such legislation. Others promised to leave the country if people didn’t vote the right way. Did they ever follow through with such threats? No, none of them ever kept their word!⁶⁰ Leading protests, supporting measures on limiting access to individual second amendment rights was their mantra. At the same time, their messages in the products they produced contradict such hope. More violence and moral depravity were increasing in the movies shown in theaters around the world.

The desired outcome by many was more governmental control over our lives in exchange for comfort and safety, and insulation from the effects of the war, none of which truly matured. The war made it obvious to those willing to recognize it that evil was being nurtured as people everywhere were blaming and abandoning God. I could see it happening over the many years, a gradual deterioration of moral standards, redefining right, making it a personal interpretation of what each individual defined it as.

I have wondered how, as a Christian, I can fight what I see happening. The war has accelerated prospects of asserting one’s faith as being decadent. One could feel it every day, the onslaught of evil that continues to motivate more and more people. Intolerance is now the only means for change; unwittingly, the country thought they wanted. When one speaks the truth or uses biblical words, we are mocked, called the foulest of names, and for believers, this darkness is felt mentally and at many times physically. The wickedness of man is great on this earth. Every imagination of the thoughts of his heart is only evil continually. I felt it one day myself that shook me to the core.

It was the day before the family celebrated Thanksgiving. I spent it working on the