The next morning both were very busy but Darius did have a rather bizarre conversation with her. He was turning around the  corner trying to find her when he saw her scraping some plants off the shaded wall in the inner courtyard. "Tais, what are you  doing?" She looked at him. "This stuff makes good tea, and it’s very good for your heart. There are others but I think I will need  this the most for the voyage ahead."

        His eyebrows almost met his hair, "Those disgusting things that grow on decaying ruins and houses you actually make tea from  it?"

        "Yes, they take affect immediately. My heart will start to race as soon as it’s in my blood."

        "How do they taste?" He asked in curiosity.

        "About the same as they look." She made a quick face then finished putting the moss into her satchel. Darius realized she must  have at least ten hanging from her shoulders. One was particularly large and had dark red leaves falling out from the opening.

        "And is this good for your heart too?"

        "No, it’s bitter and has a very bad, almost burning taste to it. But it keeps one awake and we use it often enough when we sail.  Do you want a few?"

        "No, I’ll just have Antonius slap me awake. Somehow I think I will prefer that. Tais, won’t all this…poison you?" He inquired  helplessly poking at the bags.

        "No, but it will give me a bad stomach ache. Which means I won’t want to eat much and probably won’t be hungry at all." He  stared at her astonished at her simple but horrific explanation of what she was about to do herself. She saw his face and quickly  added, "But I will to make sure I have my strength. We’ve been trained." She seemed to be oblivious to her shocking practices  and humored Darius’ consternation. Then the woman left the Roman legatus muttering about all the other things that she had to  do. Darius could not help but worry about what was in the other bags. He half expected something to crawl out of one before  she disappeared from his sight.

        Antonius saw Tais talking to herself walking swiftly to her room. Not wanting to be enlightened about her worries he quickly  turned the opposite direction to seek out his leader. "Legatus, the ships are approaching." Darius took his men and led them to  the port where an awesome view was coming into place. Into the medium-sized port the huge Quinqueremes pondered inwards.  The smaller ships raced to get out of the way or be rammed into splinters by the Roman navy.

        "Well that is definitely a sight to behold. Makes one fear doesn’t it?" Whispered a soldier in awe. Darius was not as taken, "Yes  like Hannibal’s elephants but they did him no good in Zama soldier." Silently Darius was beginning to see with Tais’ eyes.  Ungainly, huge, hard to control, yes she had her worries and they were more than justified. If he never met her, this sight would  have lifted his heart. But hearing her warnings and her harsh comments regarding the ships he saw what she feared they lacked.  The one that had the most colorful and gaudy paint came to dock. Darius stood silently and with his usual cold glare as the  commander of the fleet came to shore. The man was old, and weak. Darius gauged him to be at least fifty, and he was unsure.  Obviously he had heard of Darius’ reputation which was notorious among the military. Darius proved to him that his reputation  was well deserved and by the end of the day the Immortal knew he controlled the fleet.

        Tais confined herself in her room that night once again sending prayers to the gods of the waves and the creatures living below.  To not only protect her ship but those she will guide towards Rome. It was strange that she was praying for Romans but she  could not hold any grudges no matter how justified. If she prayed with a tainted heart it would bring down great tragedies on all  the voyagers. And she would be spared to regret her false prayers. There was a timid knock on her door and she answered  cautiously. It was Andronicus. "Darius wanted to tell you that the commander will be no problem. And that he prefers your  company infinitely to the sailors that he is entertaining now." The young man blushed a little so she gave a thank you for his  message and let the boy flee.

        The problems began for her immediately next morning. The ships were slowly taking in the soldiers throughout the night. So  when she awoke they were almost done loading them. Darius saw her come out of her quarters, and felt glad to see her. Her  belongings were sent by a servant ahead of her so all she had was her sword and a curiously shaped box in her hand. It was  small and she handled it with extreme care.

        Tyronius who was warned of the current relationship between the legatus and the woman saw her and felt distaste. She  resembled those annoying pirates with her dark hair and eyes. And of all things a woman should never carry she had a sword!  His second-in-command snickered out loud for he had less common sense than his leader. Suddenly a pair of cold gray eyes  landed on his face and the man tightened himself.

        She saw the strangers and knew that the hidden hostilities will probably bloom into something worse. But she didn’t slow hers  steps and she approached the group without hesitation. "This is Tais and she is our guide of sorts. She and her people have  traveled these waters all their lives and are very familiar with the problems the sea can throw in our path." Darius voice was  curiously formal and polite but his body language was everything but respectful. Tais stared at each man in his eyes measuring  them in moments. Only few were worthy of any respect and a look of disappointment crossed her dark face.

        "Where is she from Darius?" A voice asked from the back.

        Darius smiled, "Well that is a good question. If the rumors are correct she’s from Neptune’s cave itself. And one day she might  prove so. Until then she is determined to keep it a secret. We are ready to depart, are you ready?" She nodded and passed the  box into Darius’ grasp. He opened it and found a very curious object. Others peaked over his shoulder.

        The box was made of wood only and in the middle was a small block of redwood carved intricately. From its center standing  upright was a thin pin made of the same redwood. Sitting on this delicate pin of wood was a black sliver of metal. It was also  very fragile and trembled on its resting-place. "This is an instrument we use. No matter where you point the box this end here  will face north. Try it." Darius did, he turned left and the needle slowly moved to another position, pointing to the same place it  did before. He moved all over the corridor, standing in different directions but the simple metal would not be deceived. And  without fail it faced north.

        "This is remarkable. How is this possible?" Darius asked.

        "We don’t know but that metal if mined properly can be made to do this. So no matter what happens if the skies cannot tell you  where you are this will at least give you a way to keep your course. Take care of it, the box is fragile. And leave it in an isolated  place, far away from other materials. Sometimes it can become confused." Darius closed the box but before he could say  anything she was gone. The feared Roman legatus felt real gratitude for the gift. It was a remarkable piece of instrument and a  great testimony to the ingenuity of her people. It was a true shame that they were dead for they could have brought Rome such  fame and knowledge!

        She was free to wander but she wasted no time and prepared her tiny craft. One of the sailors was watching the sight as she put  up her sails. When the wind took it the fabric uncurled and the sailor gasped. Portius who was standing next to the old marine  was curious about the reaction. "What is wrong?"

        "That, that sail, is that the girl we’ve been hearing about?"

        "Yes, it is. She is called Tais and will accompany us to Rome. Why do you recognize something?"

        "Yes I certainly do. That sail I’ve seen in my life once before and it was a truly fearful sight. It was when I was a young man still  and filled with desires to see all of Rome’s territories. There were three biremes that day and we were out, way out of the  known waters. We were tracking you see for we heard that there were a large gathering of warships sighted off an island near  Alexandria and we thought it might be Egyptian warships being secretly called together. It was nothing of the sort. I still cannot  explain how it could have been but a fog rolled out from nowhere. And behind that wall of fog were warships. Many, many  warships all shaped alike. Long, narrow and fast, incredibly fast. That sail is what they had, or most of them. And they came at  us with such speed we didn’t even have a chance to run. But they didn’t attack us. They just passed by us, ripping through the  waves ignoring us as if we didn’t even exist or pose a threat for them. And the honest truth is that we couldn’t have done a thing  even if we tried. They disappeared into the fog, hiding in it, following it. I never knew where they went to and there was no such  news after that but let me tell you it was the most terrifying thing I’ve ever witnessed. The sailors that manned those ships were  small and dark like her, most of them anyway I can’t be sure. But I don’t remember seeing a fair head of hair anywhere."

        Portius quickly found Darius and repeated what he heard. Darius thanked his man and wondered once again from where she  came from. Somehow that abandoned knowledge must be put to use again! It was too valuable to just die or be forgotten in  time. His ship was the last to leave and take to sea. The sails of the Quinqueremes were fluttering and making great noise.  However the oar-men were not put into full use yet so Darius was spared of that torturous sound from below. The fleet was  formed into its official pattern with Darius’ Quinquereme in the front. It was past mid-day and he still could not see her bright  sail. "I don’t know why you trusted a woman to set sail by herself legatus. Do you really think she can outdo us?" Tyronius  asked with some malice for he disliked this man intensely. Darius didn’t even bother to give an answer and kept his view out into  the horizon.

        The sun was almost setting when Antonius cried out. "Look!!" He pointed to Darius’ right but Darius was not able to see  whatever Antonius spotted. Suddenly through a large swell her tiny craft broke through. Darius had to prevent himself from  laughing in triumph. Her ship was small, so small that it looked like the next swell would take her and toss her aside. But the ship  rode the waves like a master and its speed matched Darius’ boat as it paralleled itself to escort him. There was a red fabric  fluttering in the line and Darius knew that she went ahead and scouted for him. It was little wonder that he didn’t see her for the  day. And how beautiful the craft was, low, thin and sleek it fitted the sea as if it was born from her. Darius stared as long as he  could struggling with his vision as the sun disappeared from the world. Then something else took his breath away. Her sail was  glowing in the dark, like the stars! Its decorative pattern was clear against the night-sea. This sight drew many shocking breaths  as the Romans wondered how this could be. And the whole evening many eyes kept watch of that beacon of company. Never  once did it lag behind or swerve away but stayed faithfully by Darius’ side. The commander of the fleet remained silent after  that. He was proven a fool once and he didn’t want it to happen again.

        Tais set the sails tightly and rubbed the oil thoroughly on her limbs and especially her hands. They will be worked hard and she  didn’t want the skin to split and bleed, not that they would stay damaged for long. And she ate her dried bread chewing quickly.  Her gaze flew from her sails to the large shadows to her left. Her sandals were tossed aside, when the deck was wet those  became more of a bother than they were worth. The wind was sharp, biting but free from moisture and it was constant. She was  glad that it was such otherwise she would have to change her sails and that didn’t appeal to her right now, especially in the  dark.

        Darius finished his repast above deck with Antonius by his side.

        "That is such strange sight. I’ve known living things to brighten the night-sky but never have I seen that. It’s eerie how the  pattern glows in the night. Where did her people learn all this magic? Were they really born from the sea legatus? Do you think  Neptune gave his children land to work and live on? Because I am out of explanations otherwise." Antonius asked, awed and  puzzled.

        "I do not know Antonius. She hasn’t confided that much in me yet. But I must admit I enjoyed seeing Tyronius proven  otherwise. I teased her about her small craft but I think I will keep my peace after today. And when we do reach Rome remind  me to buy her a gift for teaching our naval leader a lesson or two." Antonius grinned at that mischievous statement.

        "Something tells me our sea-witch hasn’t finished with her tricks yet sir." Darius laughed at that comment and nodded in  agreement. And the two men watched the ships until fatigue settled on Darius. Antonius let his legatus sleep first. The man  deserved to have some rest, especially since the woman was on a different ship. He wondered if Darius felt the deprivation and  decided he probably did. The quartermaster once again stared at the unusual sight and felt a sense of comfort. It was strange, if  not wrong that he should trust that witch to lead them. Perhaps she’s marking some evil night monster to come and swallow the  fleet whole? He did not know but was glad that the legatus was bringing her to Rome. There it will be safer for Darius. It is  Darius’ home even though many of his enemies are also living within its walls and she will be that much more dependent on him.  Smiling a little thinking about her reaction to that great city Antonius was determined to be her side when they enter the gates of  Rome. Let her see what power really is!

        The days came and passed as the boats hugged the coast of Africa never losing the sight of land totally. Tais didn’t have such  fears the sea was familiar enough, besides it was the Roman navy that she was worried about. And her worries were justified.  The ships found shelter in Sabrata, a small port city in order to buy more supplies. Here Tyronius tried to carry out orders given  to him by others, powerful men who didn’t want Darius in Rome.

        "Legatus, we have heard news of very bad weather up ahead so I am planning to change course and leave the coast. We will  navigate between Sicily and Africa but I want some of the ships to stay behind in case the travel is too hazardous. I do not want  to lose any ships but I can no longer guarantee the safety for any of us. If you wish to wait out the colder seasons here I am sure  we can arrange everything to your comfort."

        If he wanted Darius to worry all he did was confirm the man’s suspicions. "I speak for my men and we will all go together. I will  not stay here because of some clouds ahead. Octavian is expecting me and I will not disappoint the Imperator. Prepare the  boats and we will leave tomorrow. None of my soldiers are afraid of these waters." His voice was cold and harsh.

        "Then let’s send rest of the ships ahead and wait until we get some word that they have reached…" "I do not know why you keep insisting in separating my men. Do you not understand what will happen? Whoever bribed you to  delay me will be dead if I don’t arrive in time and when I do arrive he will be dead anyway. Do you really think Octavian trusts  the Senate? After all that has passed with Caesar? His great-nephew has no desire to be martyred and toasted as once-great  ruler. Octavian will stay in power and control Rome for years. And his Legions will guarantee this, I will even if it means slitting  your throat and taking control of the fleet. And I will have no qualms doing so. Somehow I don’t think the generous bribe you  received went to your underlings. They will not be so willing to risk their necks not to mention their families’ welfare for you.  How much of a fight do you think they’ll put up for you? Or are they intelligent enough to recognize a dead man when they see  one? The choice is yours Tyronius. Help me get to Rome and your life will be spared when Octavian orders his sweep. Go  against me and you will be dead, and your family sold to slavery."

        The man wilted under the brutal calculation for Darius was speaking the truth. He had no idea that he was carting back to Rome  half a Legion, half of Darius’ Legion specifically and when he found this out it frightened him. Soon after receiving his assignment  very wealthy and powerful men from the Senate approached him and played on his fears. Added was the generous gift and  Tyronius was swayed to delay Darius’ arrival in Rome. But it wasn’t worth his life and he has two fine sons. The risk was too  great. Darius saw the thoughts fly across the man’s pale face. Mortals are so easy to read after a while.

         "We will set sail tomorrow and cut across the sea. Good night legatus." Darius stared after the man then placed a spy to make  sure Tyronius doesn’t change his mind. After that transaction he sent for Tais who was sleeping in her ship. It wasn’t long before  Darius heard her soft steps. Feeling himself uncurl from the tension he was glad she came. He didn’t know if during the journey  her mind wondered back to her previous life and decided that it was the better choice. Somehow he didn’t think he had enough  strength left tonight to argue otherwise.

        She came through the door breezing by his guards oblivious to their knowing stares.

        "What has happened? Why did we not leave today?" Darius smiled. Good, she was paying attention and with a sharp eye on  detail.

        "Tyronius had an idea, or the idea was given to him by some to delay me here as long as possible."

        "Why? Whatever happens you will reach Rome." She asked puzzled sitting on the floor.

        "I’m afraid the Imperator is rather upset with me because I’ve delayed my trip to Rome once too many times. So my enemies  were hoping with another delay that I would fall out of favor with Octavian. And make my life that much more difficult. But have  no fear we will set sail tomorrow morning. But something tells me Tyronius’ fears about the waters during this time are not  unjustified."

        She nodded with a somber look in her eyes. "No his fears are based on truths. We are leaving the coasts in order to make the  shortest trip possible but the clouds above these waters are very unpredictable. We might set sail and reach Rome under  beautiful skies. Or it can rain and storm all the way. Blue sky one moment then nothing but rolling clouds ripping with thunder, it  is a guessing game from here onwards." He sat next to her and gently looked at her hands.

        Remarkably they seemed to be undamaged by the trip though there was a pleasant scent of balm-oil on them indicating heavy  usage. And they were slightly discolored and swollen. She yanked them and placed them underneath her legs. "Seafarer’s hands  Darius. That is all, after I’m on land they will return to their original color…hopefully." Her voice was teasing for he looked  preoccupied with many ugly things. Then his eyes locked gaze with hers, their colors refusing to settle as one thought raced after  another in Darius’ head. She gently embraced him and let him rest his head on her shoulder. "Do not worry Roman you will see  your beloved city yet. And I will survive this voyage. Whatever comes afterwards we will deal with it then." She felt his  shoulders let go of the worries and the two sat there for a long time locked in the embrace.

        The seas looked friendly when the fleet set sail for the channel. It was a short trip to the passing between Carthage and Sicily  but they will be in open waters then. As if the gods were to test Darius’ will by the next day the sky was ominously dark.  Tyronius didn’t worry though, clouds such as these rarely drop rain or throw down violent storms. The next day it was clear and  everyone noted her small craft as it kept vigil by the flagship’s side. By this time the talk of her seamanship was the major topic  of every ship in the fleet. Tyronius even ordered one of his marines to take note of every movement she made and the cause of  her actions. The following morn brought a sight that froze even the hardiest of sailors. Off to the horizon there were clouds  traveling at a terrific speed. There were flashes of lightening in the clouds themselves though none broke through to the sea. And  it was spread far as the eye could see.

        "Change to the right! We must skirt this beast! Quickly and signal the others!" Tyronius yelled as the clouds rushed towards  them. Darius sought out her vessel and noted that her marker was still red. She did not change it and would not steer right as the  flagship was doing. Suddenly Darius realized she was not changing course because it was not prudent to do so.

        "Tyronius stop! Keep our original course!" Everyone who heard Darius’ comment thought him mad for it was plain even to the  youngest marine that there was going to be a hideous storm ahead. For once Tyronius wasn’t going to be pushed down. "This is  my ship! And I am the sailor here! We will change course and to the right so we can get around this monster!"

        "You fool! You can’t get around this storm! It’s coming at us in every direction! Look at the horizon, do you see any break?!  Hold our course!" All the eyes scanned the view ahead of them, Darius was right. "We are not fast enough to change directions  to get us out of this situation. And if we make any quick moves the ships behind us will be scattered trying to follow us! Keep  ahead!" Once again the legatus overwhelmed the commander and the ships set sail straight into what looked like one of the  worst storms the Meditteraneum has ever witnessed.

        Tais frantically looked to the fleet to see if they were indeed veering to the right. For a moment she feared they were then  suddenly the lead-ship straightened itself. Sighing in relief she pulled down her tall sail. Darius saw it suddenly collapse and he  wondered if there was an accident on her boat. Then another rose and it was totally different in shape and color. This one was  bright red with some markings on it and its size was smaller. She fell behind because of this but it wasn’t long before she  returned to him. Within moments the whole fleet soon found darkness. They looked overhead to see lightening burrow in the  clouds, monstrous ones that were terrifying even if they didn’t land on the sea. Tais saw them too but studiously ignored the  display. She was keeping her eye on the fleet making sure one didn’t break away in panic. Storms like this could rattle the  sturdiest of souls but one must keep her ship in the center. For it was the outer edges of these monsters that presented the real  danger.

        The winds picked the sails quickly enough and Tais soon held the ropes with both her hands anchoring the end on deck. Luckily  the winds were with them enough so that the ships could stay in position and not be scattered. It seemed like hours when  suddenly the whole fleet broke through the clouds. From the look of the sun it was almost dusk when they passed the dangerous  weather. Darius sighed in relief as he saw the clear horizon that was something he would rather not repeat anytime in the near  future. Her tiny craft was still stubbornly leading as it had done for a while now. Somehow Darius suspected she liked her new  position and won’t relinquish it until the end of the voyage. "That is some ship she has there." Remarked Tyronius. The legatus  realized that was as close to a compliment he was going to get so he returned a small smile in acknowledgement.
 

Chapter 2 - Panoreum

        Days passed and to Darius’ great relief Italia came into view. But he ordered none of the ships to approach the ports and made  headway straight to Rome. If his plans were in order his men should greet him in the port of Panoreum and not Neapolis as he  was told to. By now Tais knew that she had to follow and once again dropped besides him. The small port was ablaze with  torches when the flagship reached its harbor. The number of soldiers that were waiting for him was reassuring even to the  paranoid men of Darius’ Legion.

        Cornelius waited anxiously for he knew there was treachery regarding Tyronius and the Senate. He owed his life to Darius for  the man literally yanked him away from a certain death by a well-trained Egyptian soldier few years’ back. And one act of  kindness followed another, all which helped Cornelius to his current status as second-in-command to another legatus. It was  over two months ago that he received Darius’ private message about his planned arrival and the soldier has been ready for it  since then. There was a reason for all this caution, more than once did someone try to kill Darius. But the man had the luck of  Mercury and escaped death each time. Sometimes Cornelius really did believe Darius was a son of a god for no one should  have that much good fortune on his side.

        He saw the familiar figure, head taller then the rest and thin to worry the man strode easily to greet his friend. The two grinned at  each other. They were going to march into Rome tomorrow with yet another contingent from the North and they will be a show  of force! The marines and their ships quickly regurgitated the soldiers onto land, relieved to be done with their duties. Tyronius  knew he would have to pay a price and was determined to wait it out at sea. Better to return after everything has settled down  then stay close and be sucked into the storm.

        The men took their baths grateful to get rid of the grime and the sea-salt pasted to their skin. Outside the soldiers made the port  of Panoreum a lively place at least for tonight. And Darius had no plans to interfere. Better to let them shake their desires loose  here then drag them to Rome and have everything come to pass there.

        "So Darius what will Octavian say when he sees you?" Teased the younger man.

        "Anything from well it’s about time to get out. I haven’t seen him yet so I do not know." Was the breezy reply, "But I think the  Imperator will be glad to see me. He will in all likelihood chastise me for be amiss with my duties in Rome but when he sees the  fine soldiers who will once again remind the people of Rome how they got their glory and who controls it now – I think he will  not hold grudge for long."

        "Besides Darius has a foolproof excuse that not even Octavian could disapprove of. Our Darius here has found a woman  Cornelius. A remarkable creature you have to see her." Portius said after drinking too much wine. Tais was still a delicate  subject and Darius did not like her to be discussed in the public.

        "So the rumor is true? That you found some half-sea creature and managed to hold onto her? The story just reached us but it is  the most well talked gossip in the city. I personally thought it was a piece of nonsense! Where is she?" Darius frowned a little.  He hadn’t heard from her since they’ve reached port and that was hours ago.

        "Did you really pull her out of the sea Darius? And does she have fins and gills like a fish?" The question stunned the legatus as  he stared at the other man in some horror. "No she is human! Who has been talking about her in such manner? I cannot believe  you even paid attention to such foolishness. And I didn’t pull her out of the ocean with a net or with my bare hands. She came  to Nerum on her own ship. She’s a traveling merchant of sorts."

        "If she’s a traveling merchant I am a Carthaginian. He sent us to find her and when we finally do we get into a horrific fight  where everyone ends up wounded like dogs. Then Darius, who ordered us to fetch her in the first place, nearly kills her in  combat. She manages to ruin a banquet by being quiet – something you rarely get to see – that is a woman being quiet. While  she schemes running away by convincing a raving lunatic to help her. But no she doesn’t have fins or gills." Quipped the  quartermaster and the laughter around the table was real and long.

        "So Rome will be greeting more than you tomorrow?" Andronicus asked for he worried about Tais. His conversations with her  were still fresh in his mind.

        "I don’t know what will happen to her tomorrow. I have a mind to send her ahead with some escorts and see her safe in my  house. But then a part of me says that is the least safe place in Rome tomorrow. I am thinking about letting her accompany me  but something tells me she will balk and make my life miserable if I try to do so. It’s best if I talk to her before I make a  decision. Tomorrow has to be perfect and I cannot risk anything ruining it." With that thought Darius sent a soldier to look for  her. It was a while before the soldier returned and the man didn’t look happy.

        "Did you find her?" Darius asked but already knew the answer.

        "She’s gone legatus, we have swept the whole port but she’s nowhere in the city. With your permission we would like to  expand our search further from the town."

        Darius’ face tightened betraying his anger and worry. "Do so and spare no men. I want her found before sunrise, do you  understand?" The soldier gave a salute and beat a hasty retreat.

        "She must be near Darius," soothed Andronicus, "She couldn’t have went far and it doesn’t make sense that she brought us here  in order to abandon us."

        The rest of the meal was spent in a more somber mood. But before the soldiers scattered to sleep a small boy disturbed their  private function.

        "I have a message for a Roman named Darius." The legatus signaled that it was he.

        "Tais says that she is fine. She has just finished bringing her ship to rest and that she will find you before she retires. Good night."  With speed born of fear the child ran off quickly before Darius could ask where she was staying.

        "She’s here now so let’s call off the search." Antonius advised in his gentlest tone, and his legatus agreed. The men saw their  leader retire to his rooms staggering a little from the wine. When he was outside of hearing range Cornelius noted, "This woman  does have a hold on him doesn’t she? It can’t be a good thing for him, especially now. If he wants to solidify his position and  become a governor he has to marry. And it can’t be to a poor merchant from nowhere."

        "I almost pity her you know," Remarked Lucius against his prejudice, "Rome will eat her alive. They’re probably plotting her  destruction even now. She’s in for a different type of a storm and I don’t think she knows what to do." Andronicus had a  different opinion and which surprised all his listeners for he was the kindest of all of them. "I don’t pity either of them. I feel sorry  for that future wife, she will be the one left out of his bedroom and his life. And both won’t care for they are too wrapped in  each other to worry about an unwanted third party."

        Darius was drunk but he had enough common sense to realize it. It was rather pleasant state to be in but he kept forgetting  things and that was rather annoying. Every few moments he would stop, and listen for her steps. He missed her, her body and  her voice. It was almost shameful for him to admit to such weaknesses but he couldn’t help it. And she was still not here! Where  did that woman go? How long does it take to ‘rest’ a boat? She should be ‘resting’ him instead of that piece of wood.  Tomorrow will be a glorious day and he wanted her to witness it. In fact he was going to demand she ride with him though he  wasn’t sure if the chariot could fit two people. Doesn’t matter she’s so small it won’t make much difference. Where is the  woman? The silence outside was bothersome, more than the whipping sails and the loud and obnoxious oars-men who by the  way can’t sing squat. Antonius was becoming unbearable, acting like his father, not that Darius would know what a father is  supposed to act like. His brief encounters with the man who sired him left a distinctly bad taste in his mouth. But Antonius  looking worried every single time Tais came near him grated on Darius’ nerves too though Darius knew that it was unfair to  blame his quartermaster for caring about his welfare.

        His incoherent thoughts tired the already-exhausted mind and the noble head dropped to the table. It was in this position that  Tais found him. She was able to smell the wine from across the room and wrinkled her nose in distaste. Mercifully the man had  passed out already and she won’t have the pleasure of dealing with a drunk Immortal armed to the hilt. With strength that  always surprised men she picked him up and placed him in his bed. She undressed him, took off his sandals and covered him  with sheets to protect him from the cold night air. Then she placed a bench next to the door and seated herself comfortably  extinguishing the lamps save one. She closed her eyes and finally let herself sleep the sleep of a guardian.

        She heard him stir throughout the night but did not approach him. He was groping at the empty space next to him where she  should be. A small smile touched her face, he drank himself to sleeping alone for the night. She disliked the scent of wine and  what it brings out in men. So she will stay in her bench and ignore Darius who sank back into the bacchanal oblivion. A hold that  broke immediately as the sun touched his face. He blinked furiously for wine has very little control on Immortals and he felt  nothing from the night’s carousal. He saw her sitting on the bench staring back at him with an amused look. Darius realized that  she was there the whole night and left him alone! Then feeling his nakedness he knew he passed out and she put him to sleep.

        "Good morning Legatus, did a little celebrating last night?" She asked not bothering to mask her smile at his cost.

        "I would have liked to do so with you but you were off taking care of your ship. Where is it anyway? And why didn’t you join  me in bed afterwards?" He asked short-tempered.

        "My ship is safe, safe from pirates, from curious merchants and you especially. And it didn’t matter where I slept last night you  wouldn’t have noticed if a crocodile crawled in there with you to take my place." Her amusement shone brighter and darkened  him further.

        "I sent a search party for you. No one knew where you were."

        "That was the idea behind my disappearance Roman. Now get dressed before Antonius comes in and realizes that I didn’t sleep  with you. Think what stories that will cause." She remarked still taking her fun from his back. Antonius did come but he was  tactfully late by which time Tais was gone again from Darius’ presence.

        The two men went through an old and much-loved ritual of preparing Darius for his triumphant entrance. Darius began to dress  carefully. First the tunic made of the whitest wool and bordered with deep blue dye that is very rare to find. Then his main armor  went over his chest, segmented the whole thing was made of pure gold. The leather straps that held the breastplate together  were soft and supple designed not to chafe his skin. Every piece of armor he had was made of this precious metal. It was  magnificently burnished and shone to blind men. His helmet was also made from gold, even the cheekpanels were made of the  same stuff. Then the belt came on; heavy and jeweled it was as fanciful as the breastplate itself. The sandals were made of gold  and leather woven together with the etching of wings on the side designating speed. Something Darius was famed for. His formal  shield made of leather and wood was already mounted on his chariot. Then he held his Legion’s standard. It was the marker of  his men and never did it touch earth. A symbol of pride and power Darius’ standard was known to all in Rome and further.  Both it and the shield sported the drawing of a diving hawk. Darius created this after the battle of Zama with Scipio. It did not  belong to his father but earned through his own blood and pain shed during many battles in foreign lands. And against all odds  did this hawk remain in the air for almost two hundred years. Something that the ruling body indulged in letting him use when he  first requested it. A move they would regret as Darius kept returning throughout the years with glory upon glory. Now this  symbol’s power was second only to the Wolf that raised Romulus and Remus.

        "Aren’t you pretty? Too bad gold can’t take much battering. Otherwise we’d send you out first and blind the enemies."  Antonius noted with some sarcasm. Darius smiled at the rueful observation and took another look at the standard to make sure  it was spotless. Tais entered then stood still looking at him. "So that’s where Egypt’s gold went to. I heard the marching will  take half of today. Won’t you be dusty after a while? Not to mention uncomfortable? And you do realize gold is not the  preferred metal for protection in a field of battle?" Antonius hid his grin but he had no need to. Darius was in a fine mood now  and her usual bantering mixed with sharp observation did amuse him.

        "I will be on my chariot. And before we enter the gates of Rome I will be dusted down." Somehow the image of a legionary  dusting him with wet cloth brought on a giggling fit from Tais. Then she realized what he just said. "We?" Antonius finished his  duties right there and left the two to fight this one out. He hoped Darius didn’t bleed into the white tunic too badly.

        The two faced each other. "I am not entering the Via Sacra as your booty legatus." Her voice was cold and hard, "And neither  am I your prisoner no matter how hard you try to deceive yourself. When I want to leave your side I will leave."

        "I didn’t ask you to enter the city as either." He coolly replied.

        "Then in what capacity am I entering your precious Rome? The position of a woman when she enters with the Roman legion are  few and all unpleasant." He flinched, she did know much of their history, probably too much for him to resort to trickery.

        "What do you suggest then?" He offered because she must have spent some time thinking about this very problem.

        "That I enter silently and alone. And I will wait for you in your home. That sounds like the…"

        "Most ill-judged idea I’ve heard in a while. My place will be crawling with spies not to mention some unhappy surprises  courtesy of my ‘friends’." He retorted back.

        "And what are they going to do? Kill me?" She asked with as much sarcasm as she could verbalize. "Probably. And when you  come back to life afterwards with a dagger stuck in your back how are you going to explain away that piece of mystery?"

        She had to pause and give that some consideration. The two were unwilling to step back in this issue. He wanted her to be there  with him and she wasn’t willing to be some symbol of Rome’s power. He knew that she had pride, not the destructive kind but  still it was pride and it was rooted deep into her person. She was a powerful priestess and leader of her people. Someone like  that can hardly be humble as a beggar in all things.

        "What if I followed you in the crowd?" She offered finally. It was rebuked with a snicker.

        "That is impossible. The crowds are already forming and you won’t be able to move through the spectators."

        "Why must I be present in this ceremony Darius? I am not interested in these triumphant marches you Romans adore. I will enter  the city and meet with you when you’ve secured your home." Her voice was filled with confusion for she did not know that this  was one of the things that Darius took true pleasure in.

        "Because you’ve shown your glory when we were at sea. There was never a moment when my soldiers or myself ever doubted  your mastery over those waves. It is only just that you see the same for me. You see me as a warmonger but you’ve never seen  the reasons why I’ve done what I’ve done. And sacrificed so much. Come to Rome and see it with me. See my reasons why I  am who I am. I did not return to Rome after the war with Egypt and disappointed many in doing so. They are waiting now for  me to reap the glory and my soldiers deserve this. Even more than I do I believe." He saw her sway a little because he was  speaking the truth. So he pushed onwards, "No one shall dare say anything against you or lower you name. I will not allow it,  and they know better then to cross me."

        "But Darius, this is after all a tribute to war. And I cannot condone that." She answered.

        "It is a tribute to me. Can you deny me that?" She knew she could do no such thing. She had the right to believe what she  wished; practice her beliefs within the borders of concern and general care of others. And she must give him the same respect.  Tais knew this ceremony was considered one of the greatest honor to bestow upon the Roman army and heard the men talk  about it all this morning with great fervor.

        "Once again I find myself offering you a bargain. I will mount another chariot for you without my shield or my standard upon its  body. Take it and do what you wish with it. Stay by my side until we reach the temple. Then Andronicus can take you aside and  keep you safe until I reach my home. Do this and I will not ask for your company in any of the public appearances I must  make." This time it was Tais who knew she won.

        "Yes, but I need to have a horse in order to reach my ship. I have to get something from it. And can you find me a clean green  pallium without any design to wear?" He was only too glad to help her. Within the same hour she departed somewhere and he  had his men prepare the second chariot. There were many whispers and conversations regarding this latest development but  most still had the fresh memory of her ship plowing through the waves. And the story that she was the reason why they managed  to survive the huge storm without sinking reached many ears. They were not going to insult the daughter of Neptune. Too many  of them knew they would return to the sea soon enough.

        It was full morning before she returned. In front of the chariot she hung a black banner bearing a symbol of the dolphin drawn in  white. And behind the dolphin was the another drawing in red, one Darius recognized as the carving in her cabin. The banner  was beautiful, it shimmered and reflected the light – the fabric had to be silk Darius thought. Was that the standard of her family  he wondered or was it her country’s symbol? Where on that ship could she have hidden it? Because he didn’t discover it when  he went through the small boat in his previous search. He did not ask because she might become anxious and withdraw her  offer.

        She changed her robe, and donned her priestess’ color of pale blue - the color of the sky and the sea. She wore the green  mantle over the dress and covered her head and most of her body with it. If she was to go into the den then she would enter its  gates not as a merchant but as she was once trained to be. At the least it will confuse the onlookers and prevent them from  assuming that she was a slave. If anyone saw her now slave would be the last word used to describe her. The power was there  matched with her assurance and pride she almost equaled the legatus in bearing. The sound of the drums began and the whole  mass moved towards Rome who waited with unmasked anticipation.
 

Chapter 3- A Hero’s Welcome

        Their approach was noted by the city and the gates were thrown open to mind-numbing noise of cheering and ecstatic human  masses. Before they entered the city Tais uncovered her head. She will show no respect of such nature here. By this time it was  just past mid-day so the sun glinted off the Darius’ armor even more fiercely as if to make him shine like he was its son. And just  behind him, to his right was the woman people heard of but suspected to be a false rumor. Her head was uncovered which was  surprising and she had no gold on her. But it was her person that was magnetic; dark and silent she was in blue that matched the  sky so perfectly one wondered where the robe was made. And she held her chariot alone. No Roman insignia touched her, not  even Darius’ hawk. The only banner that was shown was hers. It was shocking, it was unspeakable and it was mysterious. Her  face was sharp and regal. Physically she was small in stature but she had no problems handling the two stallions pulling her  chariot. Priestess, whispered many. Concubine, whispered some other and even more said wife. But it was plain, she did exist  and she was in Rome.

        Tais was stunned, it was as if all of Rome suddenly went drunk on some powerful wine. They were screaming and cheering and  throwing things onto the road. Flowers mostly, perfumed oil and water, bits of leaves and crowns made of certain plants were  tossed from all sides. She could barely see ahead of her horses for all the flying debris whirling around her. But her face never  reflected her thoughts as she set her face in stone. Years of training has taught her such, for a priestess must never show her  emotions to the masses. And throughout she heard Darius name being yelled to the sky. "Darius Tullius Catus Philippi!" At once  she realized why Octavian loved him so for Darius must taken his side when the Imperator returned to claim his throne after  Caesar’s death. And then helped the youthful ruler seek justice for Caesar’s murder. Power, loyalty and revenge, three very  heady perfumes permeated the lives of these men. And for the first time Tais was unsure why she was here. Then remembering  what she saw in her room in Nerum she was determined to prevent it from coming to pass.

        Darius glanced back and saw the proud visage stare straight ahead oblivious of the noise and the crowd. She was not enjoying  the spectacle and he felt great disappointment. She saw him staring at her and her eyes crinkled enough to let him realize she will  survive this in spite of all the obstacles that threatened to upset her chariot. A small, amused smile followed the eye contact and  it pleased Darius making him forget what he felt a moment before. The procession ended in front of the temple and standing on  the steps in front of the entranceway was Octavian.

        So he has finally come home the Imperator thought. And what fine entrance that was! The man even managed to fool the  more devious players of Rome and take everyone by surprise with his speed and cunning. That was Darius though, plain and  true. How is it that the man never seemed to age? He still looked as magnificent and thin as he did the first time Octavian visited  him in the cover of night so many years ago. The sharp face, the powerful nose and chin with that cruel lip he personified the  Roman army. But now with him was a woman…Darius has changed though it was subtle. And he will change more or less as he  desired. Octavian knew better than to think that he could influence this force to his will. Better not think of such things, Darius  will sniff them out and be suspicious of his reasons for thinking such sad thoughts.

        But it was only Darius who reached the top steps, the female escort quietly and with great tact disappeared into the crowd.  Octavian didn’t know whether he should be insulted or grateful for the departure. Suddenly Darius’ figure towered over him. Let  the ceremonies begin thought the Imperator, and let there be rejoicing!

        Andronicus was able to take her out of the crowd after much yelling and pushing. By the time they broke out no one really knew  who she was.

        "I never want to do that again. Never." Whispered Tais with some conviction.

        "It was magnificent!" Andronicus yelled to the sky, "It was everything I wished for!"

        Tais stared at the young man and not wanting to dampen his exuberance she kept her peace. The two wove their way into the  famous markets, going from stall to stall making new and old discoveries. It was a long time before both made their way to  Darius’ home.

        The place was even more tightly protected than his palace in Nerum and the only gate had his personal soldiers on duty. They  were allowed entry only after the guards gave the necessary signals. Andronicus led her quickly through the luscious gardens  and the open courtyard. And as they approached the inner sanctum they were greeted with great noise indicating a lively  banquet. Tais stopped the young man, "Tell Darius I am here but I am retiring for the evening. He said I didn’t have to attend  these if I don’t wish it. And I have no desire after today’s revelry to sit in another one. Just find out where my room is."  Andronicus frowned she would be staying with Darius, what other rooms would she need? But he went to the lit hall where he  knew the party was taking place.

        As soon as he entered he was greeted loudly. There were tables scattered everywhere and enough people to make this a truly  great gathering. Making this even more auspicious was the Imperator himself sitting by Darius on the highest table. Darius saw  him and for a moment he scanned to see if she was nearby. When he didn’t see the blue robe he knew that she would not come.  A spasm of disappointment went through Darius’ usually composed face and Octavian became more intrigued with this woman.  Andronicus whispered his message to Darius and Darius told him what she wanted to know. The young soldier left the banquet  quickly. He wanted to see her settled then return and fully participate in the fun.

        Octavian leaned over, "I gather she will not be coming Darius. Can you not sweet-talk her into showing her face? I must say I  am like the rest of Rome regarding this Tais of yours. Some say she has fins you know but from what I’ve seen she looked  human enough to me." "I’m afraid I’ve emptied out of my power of persuasion. She was overwhelmed with the procession today and thinks the  banquet will do her even more harm. She grew up in a quiet world Imperator and sees all this as something of a burden to bear  on my behalf. Most of the time she prefers a view of the sea with the sound of the waves and the night-sky above her."

        Octavian felt some pity for the man; it’s always hard to share control with someone. "From that I must protest on her behalf.  There is no prettier view then the night-sky littered with stars. And the sound of the sea is infinitely soothing, even for me. She  has excellent taste." Darius was surprised to hear such romantic words come from Octavian but felt grateful for it.

        "But Darius it’s only fair to you that she show herself tonight of all nights. In front of all your men and your guests she refuses to  come? It seems a capricious act of cruelty to let you sit there alone without her." Gaius teased with some barb.

        "I can hardly demand that Gaius. After all she’s not my slave nor my wife nor my concubine. The tie that binds her to me is  much of hers as mine." The legatus thoughtfully replied.

        "Then who is this mystery woman Darius?" Needled Olivia who rather liked the sardonic leader and was crushed when she saw  Tais in the procession.

        "She is my equal." The succinct reply silenced his table. Even Octavian stopped his eating. Eight pairs of eyes stared at the host  and the man returned each gaze. " Because I know how impossible it is to make me do something I do not wish to I can hardly  ask her to do something that she doesn’t want to. Let her rest and get some sleep. She has sailed alone in her ship for the whole  voyage and is tired. I was grateful that she had enough strength for today." With this the subject of his new lover became closed  topic for the evening. Most of the revelers stayed the night and slept in the great hall. After seeing to their comforts Darius found  a private room to discuss state matters with Octavian before he returned to his palace.

        "So what are we to do with Marius and Gaius? They cannot remain as they are. The civil unrest and rumors they stir among the  populace takes me almost the whole day to settle." Asked Octavian though he already knew in his heart what Darius planned to  do with the youthful traitors.

        "Marius will pay dearly for trying to stop me from entering Rome. I am planning to make sure he will not survive the next ten  days. His life will be cut short from an accident involving his horse. The fool was never a good rider to begin with and he will  pay the ultimate price for that folly. Let Gaius live as a broken man, a monument to warn all that dare to try their cowardly  tactics again. Do not worry Imperator they will be removed." The ruler stared at the legatus and wondered out loud, "Were you  always this brutal Darius? Did your father teach you this? I know your family has a history of such behavior but I have to  wonder. Maybe it's my romantic thinking because I don’t remember you being this ruthless."

        "I was always like this Octavian. That is why you are the Imperator now." The ruler of the Roman Empire felt the certainty of  those words. He left the villa knowing he will get little sleep that night. Darius saw the torches fade away as Octavian returned to  his home with his personal bodyguards. He was glad that everyone was gone or asleep. Quietly not wanting to disturb Tais he  entered the room. She was awake standing on the balcony admiring the view of the city below. "I think I prefer this view of your  beautiful city Darius. Lighted, quiet and in a distance." He stood behind her and embraced her tightly. Here was a creature not  born of greed or lust for power. Here was a woman who had nothing else to give but herself yet he wanted her more than any  other in the whole Roman Empire. She leaned back to him. He knew she didn’t enjoy what she saw today and wondered what  she thought of it. Then as if she read his mind she answered.

        "That was an impressive and frightening sight I witnessed today at the Via Sacra. They love you, worship you, fear you, and  desire you…so many emotions, such great turmoil. What do they real feel about you or do they even know?" The voice was  filled with wonder and curiosity. She spoke the truth and Darius knew he had to answer her with equal honesty. "They don’t  know. That is why it’s so heady for them. So easy to get carried away in all that tide of emotion. They want to say they are the  greatest rulers of the land and I gave them the excuse to say it. What they see and want to see limits their sense of history. But  their tributes are always magnificent. Did you not think so?"

        "Mmm, yes it was magnificent. I think they threw away jars and jars of perfumed oil for you and your soldiers. Not to mention  stripping every flowering tree from here to Alexandria so your feet would never touch the streets. Petals and leaves with  garlands aplenty. It felt…almost like a ritual from my country. A very old and wild celebration we have. Or that we priests allow  others to have. It’s fun though I must admit and the scents of the flowers used for the ceremonies perfumed the Houses for days  on end. And from what I’ve been hearing the tributes are still continuing. How many of your guests are sleeping out in the hall?"

        "It doesn’t matter. They’re sleeping out there and we are in here. They are probably dreaming about a certain dark and  mysterious woman who bewitched Roman’s harshest legatus and delayed him from coming back to Rome even with a personal  summons from Octavian himself." He felt her stiffen a little, "And all their dreams will end with me standing in front of them  saying ‘Think of something else for she is not yours to dream about.’" He felt her laugh against him. "I believe you’re right  Darius, I believe you’re absolutely right." He raised her chin until he was able to kiss her. That first kiss soon turned deeper and  all his exhaustion fell away. No she wasn’t theirs to dream about.
 

Chapter 4 – The Delights of the Forum

        The morning arrived and both so long trained for it woke to begin the day though there was nothing to be done. So she began  by asking questions, one after another until Darius’ head spun from all her curiosities. "Darius before in Nerum you said your  enemies wanted you in Rome so your popularity with your men won’t be so strong. But at the same time they wanted to delay  your arrival? I don’t understand how could they expect to achieve anything by doing both?"

        "Because there are two distinct factions within that particular camp. Which makes them weak and vulnerable. One is worried  about my control over the army. The other is worried about my ability to whisper into the Imperator’s ear. And they detest each  other as much as they hate me. Makes for interesting social gatherings but you are excused from attending these functions.  Somehow I think if I brought you along it will end with you slamming a few of the empty-heads against the wall out of sheer  frustration. I know I feel that temptation still even after all these years." She was laughing, so hard that she could not drink the  cold water brought to them somewhere along the night. It was clear and sweet and rang out to the others that the day would  begin rather nicely for all.

        He stared at her enjoying her amusement then she finally came to a stop. "Does all this intrigue ever bore you so much that you  just stand in front of the Curia Julia and list all the conspiracies and the conspirators just to see what happens? To see the  reactions of all these men who have too much time in their hands and too little trust in themselves?"

        "No, this underlying current of power and betrayal is part of Rome’s charm." He saw the doubtful look on her face and  continued, "It makes the city lively and since I can only do so much here it is an interesting way to study human behavior and  motivation. Every life I lived here I’ve never been bored with all the intrigues going on. And there is such a place though it will  not be to your liking. It’s the Rostra. When the conspiracies become uncovered the guilty ones end up there or at least their  heads. And we Romans do not discriminate either. One of the last ones was Cicero. The poor fool threw in his lot with the  losing side. I miss hearing him though. He had a fine speaking voice and he was able to use words like no other."

        She stared at him aghast, "You executed Cicero? The orator? His fame was so wide and spoken well of. I thought he was  untouchable." Darius shook his head sadly, Mark Anthony caused more trouble than his worth. "No he was very touchable in  the end. I tried to prevent it but the fool spoke too hastily and made too many enemies. However I think history will remember  him above most of us and Cicero will always have the fame he so craved." She nodded as he drifted off to his personal reveries.  "Do you have such a place in your island?" He finally asked.

        "Yes and no. In a large cove facing west where our enemies used to come from we have a wrecking place. It’s filled with  broken ships of all the previous fools who tried to conquer us. We make sure their standards still flutter in the wind warning all  what nations, what worlds and what conquerors tried and failed so miserably." Darius knew that she was avoiding the real  question. "And the soldiers, the marines who came with those ships?"

        "We keep a few because they demonstrate their desires to stay and be part of our world. The rest we kill. We do not keep  prisoners nor do we have slaves. We must never depend on such work source. Our skills improve because we need to have  them improve." It was Darius’ turn to be horrified. "Kill? All of them? Why not ransom or sell them to slavery? Surely you  cannot have killed all." Her eyes met his and for a moment Darius didn’t want to know the truth. But she wasn’t going to  comply, Darius asked so he will get an answer.

        "We have killed all of them. None may return to their homeland after coming onto our shores. How did you think we were able  to rule for so long in peace? If no one knows we exist then they do not bother us." Her voice was harsh and to him unnatural.

        "How many have your country killed to protect?"

        "Legions and Legions Darius. We do not keep count of the fools. It was the practiced way since forever." Darius tried to  imagine how such peaceful people could do such a thing.

        "But after a while you…" he protested in a fading voice.

        "We drown them. We put them in cages and row out to the sea and throw the cages over. The sea takes what she needs and  the rest is left as a warning to others. Their bodies are carried to all parts of the world I’m sure."

        "That is a grizzly tribute to Neptune and a horrific way to die for those soldiers."

        She stared at him her eyes hard and mocking. "I think it’s no worse then being beheaded and having your corpse displayed in a  public arena for everyone to mock at. As for numbers somehow Rome can hardly scold us for being overeager."

        The two stared at each other. Darius finally confessed, "I just imagined your people to be much gentler and kinder than we are.  You seemed to be excused from so many follies I’ve seen."

        "We are and we have achieved this by keeping outsiders from our world. That rule is something we’ve always obeyed and  followed. No one has ever broken it ever. The result of disobeying it is the destruction of our kind. And I don’t mean our cities  and villages. The story goes that if this code of silence is not strictly followed one day there will be enemy warships filled with  killers whose only desire is to see us destroyed. Who will not only bring and end to our teachings and way of life but who will  hunt us down one by one and kill us until there are none left on the face of this earth. They would do this because they were  born as our enemies. Our First Houses fled from them in the beginning out of fear and loathing and took with them the best of  everything. The ones that were left behind learned to hate the First Houses for this betrayal and swore vengeance for eternity.  The First Houses finally found safety in our island with its people and began a great reign. And from them al the Houses were  born." Darius was breathless from listening, it sounded so familiar yet so foreign. Something in the back of head kept scratching  at the barrier of forgetfulness trying to break into his waking mind but it was too weak to achieve this.

        "And the Houses ruled. Our powers were of course the gifts the First Houses had stolen from the others. With these gifts and  the knowledge they possessed they were able to build our island. There were only three Houses, two male and one female  dynasties. After a while the blood and the powers were diluted and the three became thirteen Houses. The thirteen stood  absolute until the plague." Darius held her hands. She was beginning to trust him enough to tell him many things and he was  grateful. They’ll have all the time in the world for her to confess more truths to him. He wasn’t in a hurry as he knew he had the  luxury of time unlike the mortals. She seemed to be physically exhausted from telling him all this as she curled up to him.

        "Do you believe this to be true Tais? And not some stories made to justify the Houses’ own existence?" He asked more out of  curiosity than malice.

        "Yes I believe it to be true. My memories, those that stretch through time echo with things that were told in the stories. I believe  that somewhere out there is a great threat not only to myself but to any survivors of the plague." Darius himself remained  unconvinced but it was obvious she believed it. It was after all a powerful story made to isolate a nation of people and it did  succeed in doing exactly that. Taking advantage of the relaxed atmosphere and her trusting nature Darius began to probe her  family life.

        "You said you had brothers? Were they all like you, trained for priesthood though you said they were for warfare?" She smiled  a little imagining all of them one after another. "There are different levels of priesthood, the highest are the Houses one of which  my mother was the leader. She was born to the position because of the bloodline and her mother out of three daughters chose  her. She was very powerful and wise, some say she was the greatest in her House. She married by arrangement and by consent  to a son of another House. Though he himself wasn’t designated heir he did have great talent. And the marriage was a happy  one from what I heard. But he only gave her sons. Three to be exact and the Houses were starting to worry. They needed a  daughter to carry on the tradition and my mother should have had one by the third child." "How are you supposed to control that? Or even know if you’re to have a daughter or a son?" Darius interrupted a little  amazed. She gave an indulgent smile; it was very puzzling if one didn’t know the history of the Houses.

        "Because every female priestess always had a daughter and every male priest had a son. There was only one that did not have a  son for his heir, and even that line didn’t die out completely because the nephew took the position in order to continue in some  way. But as long as children were born there was someone to inherit and rule. Yet my mother was without a daughter and the  people were getting nervous. Her House was one of healing and death; both were very necessary in the welfare of the land. So  she was left with no choice, she divorced her first husband."

        Darius stared now totally stunned. "A woman divorced her husband because he couldn’t give her a daughter?"

        "Yes, you Romans have divorce laws and practice it well enough. My mother did the same and married another well-gifted  non-heir to a House. And he gave her two more sons. By this time as you can imagine everything was in an uproar. Her first  husband was madly in love with her and thought the divorce was unfair since she didn’t want to leave him either. The second  husband was also happy with the marriage and didn’t understand all the prejudices that worked against them. Even though  divorce is common among the general public, the Houses rarely practice it because it always brings great amount of trouble and  unrest from the people. So many treated the second marriage as something of an aberration and they called the first husband her  true companion. Then she became pregnant again and this time her life was threatened by it. The Houses became anxious when  they heard of the dangers against her health but she was determined to give birth and she did. The sixth child was myself and my  father named me Luck Child. After my birth no one dared to speak against the second marriage; even the first husband stayed  silent."

        Darius managed to grin, ‘Ever the peacemaker, even as an infant. It must not have been easy growing up amongst so many  different factions." She gave a big nod in agreement.

        "Yes, especially when my first three brothers came for their visits. They blamed me for their mother marrying another man and  managed to take it out on my hide every chance they could. Then when I was five the first husband died in an accident and the  three came to live with us. Things changed very quickly then." Darius barked out his laughter, he could only imagine!

        She gave a wolf’s smile and settled more comfortably in the pillows.

        "Oh yes, things changed very quickly. My two blood-brothers though younger were bigger because of our father and they made  sure I was protected and should a bruise fall upon my head because of the other three well my mother would be told and she  had even less patience then my brothers. Anyway they saw what my life was and soon ended their teasing. It was a very hard  life and a very good one, so many rules to obey and learn. I cannot walk on these streets but on these streets I was free to  roam. I cannot drink this nor eat this but these dishes I can have. I can learn to sing these songs but these other ones? Never. I  had to learn three different ways of speaking so I could address people of different social standings correctly. I could wear only  these colors and not those on certain days. I could NEVER speak to a boy unless my mother approved of the friendship. I  could NEVER speak to a girl unless my mother approved of it. And I wasn’t allowed to study with others. That was the hardest  part to take Darius and one that I made sure my mother felt my displeasure." Her face was softly regretful and sad as she  remembered.

        "All the other Houses had daughters and sons so the chosen heir got to study with her sisters or his brothers. But I was the only  girl and that meant I studied alone, for hours. While my brothers all stayed together and learned things which I was not allowed  to even read. I would hear them from the other room and there I was; the chosen and I was the banished one. My father saw it  I think and that is why he dragged me into sword-fights and weapon training. There I got bruised and battered along with  everyone else. It terrified the Houses of course, since I was the sole heir swinging swords and dodging blows seemed a great  way of dying prematurely and ending the lineage. But my mother stood firm and let me run around and get hit and cut and come  back to her side with more wounds than healthy flesh."

        "And that is why you came so near to taking my head. While managing to keep your own even without a mentor. Your father  belonged to the priesthood of…wars? How did it work?"

        "There is no single house that fights and leads us during a war. That would make it too easy for us to become involved in a  conflict. There were five," Darius looked surprised, five out of thirteen? She smiled a little, "Yes five Houses that are involved  actively in warfare and state of defense. My father’s house who was led by his oldest brother was part of the defensive council.  My father was one of its most gifted leaders. He was the second chosen in that House next to his brother. And he did have  great talent for it; almost as good as his brother’s for it was by choice of their father that one was chosen to lead while the other  followed. So my brothers were destined to participate in that council or others of their choosing while I didn’t have a choice at  all."

        Darius reached out to stroke her chin and she accepted the touch with lovely look on her face. "Destiny has a way of playing  havoc with lives Tais and yours wasn’t with being a priestess in your House. Tell me if you had no choice in your future then did  you have any in your marriage?" She hesitated to speak of it somehow she didn’t think Darius really wanted to know the  answer. But realizing it was a subject that was bound to appear again and again, she did go on.

        "My husband was a good friend of my oldest brother. He used to come around my house all the time and generally raised havoc  while he was within the walls. Once he tried to hide the ceremonial oil that was very necessary for my marking – a somber  celebration of my birth and managed to set the kitchen on fire. We lost one whole wall because of his prank and his father had  to pay for the wall and the oil. A very expensive joke from which he paid with his hide and I with tears because the ceremony  was never carried out. He came to visit with sweets for me for a long time after that because he knew I was very angry with  him. And having the future heir of a House upset with you wasn’t a good thing." Darius laughed, to be afraid of a little girl  sounded so silly but he knew she wasn’t talking all nonsense to him.

        "And he grew up with us, always by our side and practicing with us since our father adopted him in a manner of sorts. One day I  turned to look at the vexing boy and found a thoughtful man. He said that I was all prickly and haughty even after I reached my  womanhood and that I studied too many prayers and had too much power for someone my age to be any fun or attractive. But  when Qhirin came around courting me he was the one that became all prickly and haughty. He made everyone’s lives miserable,  especially mine until he took Qhirin’s place. From there things happened very quickly. The truth was that he was always the one  I compared other men to and everyone was found lacking. I never admitted that to him, his pride would have been insufferable if  he ever found out." It was sweet enough of a story but Darius didn’t like it. It rang too close to his dealings with Annia. While his  relationship there ended in misery hers was a happy affair. And though he didn’t want to know why it was very obvious to him.

        "How miserable did he make your life? And did I do a better job of it?" He teased making himself forget about Annia. Such an  unhappy ghost should not be welcomed into this sweet conversation. She laughed out loud at his question. Then looking pensive  for a moment she answered. "No, he had longer time to turn my life into chaos. And though you have a more direct fashion he  had the…cunning and he had my brother’s help. Which made it much easier for him to play the trickster with the whole  situation. Poor Qhirin, the man never stood a chance against those combined forces and poor me because I didn’t either." The  two heads bent towards each other as other topics were discussed and dismissed. She learnt much about his past and found  great sadness though she never voiced it. Even when he had two living parents Darius was obviously an abandoned son. Born  only to please his father then dismissed when he developed a will of his own Darius was alone from the moment he knew his  own name. No one to guide him or shape him he took to Scipio’s personality like a starving man would do to food.

        It was a quiet morning for the servants, slaves and soldiers that ran Darius’ home. They served the usual breakfast fare of fruit,  bread and honeyed wine. But when they brought it into his inner chamber the man was busy talking to his foreign lover and  ignored the meal altogether. The two were lying on their stomachs facing each other hidden under the cushions and pillows. It  was a very odd sight for the witnesses to see their master in a vulnerable and rested state. But they gave a little thank-you to the  gods for he could be merciless in his bad mood. If that witch could keep him happy better will they be.

        Darius finally convinced her to take a walk with him to the Forum. It was rare for a woman to accompany a man in public,  especially one that she was not married to. Rarer still is the fact the man be Darius. But both had a mischievous need to  overthrow few of the local prejudices and Darius did admire Hortensia for her glorious tongue-lashing on Octavian! He was  hoping Tais would do the same to some of the pompous asses that were guaranteed to be present in the Forum. Tais had no  such desire and would have preferred the silent beauty of his home but her curiosity did get the better of her. She dressed simply  using the green mantle to hide much of her as possible but Darius was at her side with his legionaries. She might as well have  walked with a trumpeter marching right in front announcing her presence for everyone noticed and whispers followed her  everywhere.

        After the third stall she was determined to return to Darius’ home but he wanted to continue. First he wanted to dispel the  stories circulating about her. However she was wrapped head to toe so if anything the rumors were being confirmed. He even  tried to coax her into trying on a pair of earrings. She told him she was not allowed to wear such trinkets and insulted the  merchant along the process for the poor workmanship. She passed by another then stopped and turned towards the small  display. Darius saw what caught her attention. The stall had a lovely collection of lunulas, moon-shaped pendants worn by  women and girls as a charm.

        "So even you Romans recognize the power of the moon?" She asked the merchant.

        The man was present the day before at the triumphant march and could not answer for he was utterly speechless. She pointed  to the one pendant representing the full moon and whispered to Darius, "That is the most powerful one." Then left without  purchasing anything. Darius buried his amusement behind his usual stony face and followed her.

        "Darius I wish to return to your home. I cannot see what…"

        "Darius! How are you this fine morning?!" A booming voice greeted the conversing figures. Both turned to see a huge man  lumbering towards them. People got out of his path in order to be not stepped on as the giant hurtled towards them.

        "That is Marius. And he is no friend of mine in spite of his behavior. Be careful." She gave a slight nod as the russet giant stood  in front of them.

        "Again I give my apologies for not being able to attend your feast last night. And from what I’ve heard it seems that I missed a  great deal of gaiety. How are you from your trip? I am surprised that you’re up and walking after such a long journey and a  great day like yesterday. But after all you’re Darius and your iron constitution is famed as your will." He seemed genuine in all  things but Tais knew that there was underlying current of tension between the two men.

        "I think my exhaustion will catch up with me later but for now I am happy to have returned to Rome. So Marius you have  purchased yet another stallion and the talk is that it is the best horseflesh seen on the market. Is it true?" The man nodded, "Oh  yes, beautiful black beast with a temper that could scare Consus. But I am determined to ride him and soon for the Races are  coming. Will you be attending Darius and will your mysterious companion be gracing us with her presence?" With that the man  turned his eyes on her. And she felt the threat behind his open invitation. The hostility was not towards Darius but to herself! She  was confused by this and made a point to herself to ask Darius what this was all about in the safety of his home. She had no  choice now so she pulled back the cloth and stared at Marius with her dark eyes. Somehow and without Darius’ knowledge she  became lovely. It was remarkable for Darius saw her through his own eyes and her physical beauty never caught his full  attention until now where he was able to witness other men’s attraction towards the dark woman.

        She is lovely thought Marius, so different from Annia. Is this the type of woman that can attract and hold Darius? If that is the  truth then his sister never had a chance from the beginning. And Darius just toyed and used her until she could no longer live with  herself. The dark eyes that looked back at him seemed to pull all the light and reveal nothing. They belonged to some ageless  creature he mused. Maybe the rumor that she is a witch was true. In any case Darius was the monster here, not this fragile  creature with innocence that still shone from her face. How long will this one live? She could not know what Darius does to his  women. And Marius had to warn her some way, he was obligated to for he did not do the same thing for his sister and she paid  the ultimate price for his reticence.

        "Well Darius I see that she is indeed lovely. And observant for in her silence she is able to hear my foolishness and make good  judgment on my character while she remains a mystery to me. See? She cannot hide her smile for her eyes betray her  amusement. And at my expense no less but if I can make such a pretty face smile then I know Venus will like me better for it.  There, a show of white teeth, hah! My greatest duty for the day is now finished. Tell me do you ride?"

        "Badly I’m afraid. The horses we had were brutes and took great pleasure in throwing me off in front of my parents." Marius  sincerely appreciated the honesty and began to realize what kind of woman she really was. "Modesty, that signals a truth greater  than the sum of the speaker’s words. I think I can assume that you kept riding no matter how battered and bruised you were."  Another flash of smile and Marius felt better. "And kept doing so until you were a fine horsewoman! Darius, I see you did  manage to pull a treasure off the seas. I would keep a sharp eye and make sure she doesn’t float away with the tide. And my  dear lady I give the same warning to you. Darius here is known to make women weep for he is a cruel master and scorns their  love as often as he wins battles. Just ask around and you will see, so many sad verses written about him, it makes one wonder  about the state of his heart. We actually thought it dead until we heard about you. Well I must be off to the baths now and  discuss less pleasant topics so farewell." The giant gave a large bow and walked away.

        Darius was in a rage, how dare he! What right did that fool have to fill her ears with such treacherous talk! But escorting that  rage was fear that she will indeed hear stories of his behavior, especially with Marius’ sister Annia. That was a mistake, a costly  one that he knew he would have to pay some day. "Let’s return home. You’re right, my public appearance is still too fresh in  their minds and we will get little peace. Give it a few days and then we may walk the streets without being hassled by fools and  traitors." He held her hand and walked with speed. But if he wanted to prevent Tais’ curiosity from blooming he was too late.  She knew there was a warning in Marius’ words – what did happen?

        She did not ask for his body language prevented any furtherance of the conversation with Marius. And he was in a strange  temper for rest of the day. Often she would find him staring at her looking almost forlorn in a way. Darius fought with himself,  she would forgive him would she not for his past dalliances with other women? She wasn’t the type to demand that he be pure  and clean like some virgin. She knew where she belonged didn’t she? But Annia, that was something she might not understand  and he knew she would never forgive. Better that she never hears of the tragedy and suspect it as a rumor started by his  enemies to denounce his character!
 

Chapter 5 – Now Forever Joined…

        The next day came with a summons from the Imperator. Darius was gone before mid-day and she knew it would be almost  night before he would return. Deciding to take advantage of the privacy Tais told a servant she would like to take a bath and  one was prepared for her quickly. Tais stepped into the luxurious pool of hot water and sank below the stillness. A female  servant peered behind the curtains to see if she would rise as a fish or a sea-nymph. Neither, the woman stayed a woman but it  was as if the water turned her into something more graceful and unearthly. Most say she wasn’t lovely to look at but Caecilia  thought her beautiful with her exotic and dusky features. And such dark night-winged hair, while so many Roman ladies colored  theirs this creature kept it natural. With those thoughts the female servant left her peeking post. She would do more to dispel the  gossip than the previous day’s visit to the Forum.

        Tais was just getting comfortable when she felt Recognition. She frowned for Darius could not have returned so quickly. Then a  man appeared from the left corridor holding a broad and ugly sword. He looked astonished to see her in the pool. His face was  paler than Darius’ and it was complimented by dark hair. His eyes had all different colors as if they could not make up their  mind which shade they wanted to be. The intruder wore clothes of the noble class and had a lovely ring to match. It was the ring  that told her he wasn’t Roman. The design was old, made from a country now gone forever. No modern Roman could have  come to possession of such a jewel.

        "You’re not him." The man uttered surprised to see a woman sitting there. When he felt the Recognition he obviously expected  the Roman legatus. Tais just stared at him. Her sword was hidden underneath her robe and that was only one step away from  where she was.

        "Sorry to disappoint you but Darius is not here. The Imperator called for him this morning."

        "I think the disappointment belongs to Darius." The man complimented with an impish smile. "He cannot possibly prefer  Octavian’s company to yours. You are the one they claim to have charmed the untouchable legatus. I am surprised to see that  you are one of us. I imagined Darius to be a cautious man and having another Immortal as a companion does present its own set  of difficulties." He sat on the bench as if he was conversing with an old friend and not a naked stranger whose home he violated.  She was beautiful, her muscles rippled in her arms betraying its strength as she tensed and he knew that despite her leanness she  could physically meet him in combat. What was even more intriguing was that she was not bothered a bit about the state of her  nudity. It was as if she was able to ignore that disadvantage altogether and focus all her attention to him. Flattering and very  unnerving thought the trespasser.

        "I cannot imagine why you’re making yourself comfortable. I am one of you as you so brilliantly noticed and that means we have  our own to fight for. Now if you give me a moment I will be more than happy to fulfill your need for the Challenge." She turned  around to take purchase of her sword. At that moment the stranger saw the marking on her back. His face fell open and  reflected horror, fascination, shock and happiness. But when she faced him with her sword his countenance was once again a  reflection of amusement.

        "Shall we for in the end…" Tais never got to finish the sentence. "I came for Darius and not a lovely woman who needs better attention than I can give. My battle is not with you dear lady and I  could never stain the earth with your blood. The gods will never forgive me for it. So I will depart immediately, but before I go  may I ask where he found you? Was it in Egypt as the people whisper?" He asked brightly and harmlessly almost like a child so  she answered. "Yes we met or shall I say he found me in Nerum. I was sailing and doing trade when I came across his path."  She was puzzled for the look in the man’s eyes has changed. It looked like he was in entranced with her or in…some religious  ecstasy.

        "I shall bother you no longer. If you wish to tell Darius that I am on his tail please do so. If not then perhaps we could meet  under better circumstances. Good bye." With a pretentious bow the youth disappeared like a cat into the corridor leaving Tais  confused and worried. Something just happened and she wasn’t quick enough to see it. And she knew that she would face that  stranger again somewhere.

        The failed assassin ran through the streets his heart beating so furiously it was painful. But he didn’t care, he found one. After all  this time, all his travels he met Her in Rome. He should have known, didn’t the Romans say that sooner or later everyone comes  to Rome? And she is Immortal, still young but he saw her eyes and the age that was transparent underneath. She was Old and  Young, a breathless mixture of the past and the future. And she was here! The stories were true then and it wasn’t too late.

        Methos reached his private residence and called for wine. He wanted to celebrate his discovery then decide on how to  approach her again. But Darius presented a big challenge. The Roman Immortal was not that old but he was a soldier and had a  soldier’s training. The man would be a ruthless opponent and extremely good with his sword. However Methos believed that he  would have little difficulty in challenging the dangerous figure. The problem, the new, lovely, and huge problem was this Tais. He  knew he would get absolutely no cooperation from her if he harmed Darius. He heard the way she said the Roman’s name and  the emotion was painfully naked behind it. Her tie to that man was strong, too strong for Methos to interfere directly. But he had  other plans for Gaius was bitterly complaining at the baths this morning about Darius’ new and improved status in the city.  Methos knew that Gaius would do just about anything to see Darius dead. Perhaps he could help that come to pass. After all  two of the Ancients were already in the city waiting for his orders. Methos thought he could do the job alone but now he had to  step aside and let someone else do the duty of killing Darius. And for him to make into reality a long awaited dream of the Old  Ones. The Ones that were abandoned by her kind so long ago…

        He dispatched his message telling the two that they must do the job. They would obey without hesitation for he was their Roman  leader and contact. After that deadly order he gave his spy in Darius’ household a huge incentive to tell him when Darius would  be vulnerable. Preferably walking at night or in an isolated place and then inform him as quickly as possible. He would also write  immediately and offer a ‘gift’ to Gaius for his pains. Then let the fool take the blame for the murder. Methos always hid in the  shadows, and he would succeed in this like any other venture. For the bet on this was the biggest he ever placed in his three  thousand years of existence.

        The Roman legatus entered into his home and immediately sought out Tais’ company. He found her sitting by herself in the inner  courtyard in a very contemplative manner.

        "Tais, what has happened?" She paused for a moment debating whether to tell him but decided that he needed to know  especially since the man came looking for Darius.

        "I had a visitor today. One of us but he was looking for you. I challenged him but he refused very politely and left. It was almost  as if he didn’t want to fight at all." Darius stood still.

        "Someone came into my house and tried to kill you?"

        "No, he didn’t that is what is worrying me. I was in the bath so it wasn’t as if it was on a fair ground but he didn’t take the  Challenge. He refused, totally and then just walked away."

        "He caught you in the bath? Where were my guards? My servants? How could this happen?!" Tais stared at him as he worked  himself into a good snit. Fearing for the lives of everyone underneath his roof she approached him blocking his path to the open  doorway.

        "The intruder was no ordinary man Darius. He was one of us and that means he could do things no ordinary killer can. Do not  blame your people for being mortal and thinking mortal ways. Darius look at me, I am still here and unharmed. And the fool was  looking for you, I just surprised him." He stared at her as she prevented him from venting his anger on his soldiers. She was right  of course. This was not the first time an Immortal gained access to his home. But they never left this place alive until now. She  also asked a good question, why was she spared? That presented even more questions and Darius was quite tired of questions  actually. He had too many today from too many fools so he didn’t have the stomach to handle more. And she looked too  inviting with her damp hair and perfumed skin. The power of persuasion from those two elements convinced him to follow her  lead and the soldiers were spared of his wrath. Octavian was right in his thoughts, Darius had changed, subtle changes but they  were there.

        Methos waited alone in his inner chamber for the Two Ancients. The two men came silently, with stealth that would not even  arouse guard dogs because they were trained to walk in shadows for hundreds of years. They were Ancients whose one goal  was preventing The Gathering from happening. This order consisted of Immortals who were obsessed about their heritage and  who tracked down any stories involving their kind, especially The Gathering. It began with the children of the Abandoned Ones,  the oldest of the Immortals and though the apocalyptic end was not yet upon them they were sure it would come to pass.

        "How did your meeting with Gaius go?" Methos asked offering food and wine.

        "It went well. The fool remembered you and received your message regarding your ‘offering’. We never mentioned your name  of course but that we were ‘presents’ from a sympathetic acquaintance. He understood it all well enough and told us that he will  find out when Darius will be vulnerable enough to strike. So between you and him we should be able to kill Darius." Stated  Mark between drinking and eating. Dayash, the more thoughtful one handed their host his original message to the conspirator.  "Gaius left it in plain sight and I thought you might like it back." Methos smiled and took the thin scroll. Without hesitation he  burnt the only evidence that could link Gaius to him.

        "May I ask why you can’t do this? After all the others have voted you to finish this dangerous threat. And you seem to be more  than capable of doing so." Dayash was curious, for Methos always had plans within plans. And Dayash wanted to know if he  was going to live through all this treachery.

        "I tried this afternoon but was seen. The legatus was taken away at the last moment by the Imperator himself. His personal  guards must have a good description of me by now and I must disappear unless I wish to have my head removed by execution  and displayed. That is one of the ways the Romans kill their prisoners and it would be a terrible waste of my Quickening." The  explanation was buried in half-truths but it was good enough for his two compatriots.

        More than two days passed before they received news that a perfect situation has arisen. Gaius was having a feast and invited  the legatus. It will be held late and the arrogant guest will come with his usual number of soldiers. Gaius had bought enough men  to take care of the soldiers but the two were given the prize of taking Darius down. It would be swift, bloody and total. Methos  confirmed the message and the two Ancients hid in the night shadows waiting for Darius.

        What neither knew nor Gaius suspected was that Darius cautiously placed men at a designated spot to meet him when he was  returning from the feast. And Tais knowing of this plan waited silently for his return not at his home but in the streets of Rome.  She slipped by Antonius and his guards through Darius’ secret way blending into the darkness. The moon was full tonight and  around her was the blood-ring. This meant there was great mischief ahead and she knew enough to never question the warning.

        The legatus and his men were not too far from his villa when he felt Recognition. Was Tais nearby? Suddenly the street  swarmed with armed men. His nine guards fought but they were slain including his second-in-command, Portius. Then just as  quickly Gaius’ men faded into the night for they have done what they were paid to do. The mortals left the two huge assassins  who looked more than capable of murdering the sole survivor. They also didn’t want to be around just in case help arrived in  the form of legatus’ own men.

        Darius knew there were Immortals hiding somewhere very close then as if to confirm his unspoken suspicions two stepped out  of the shadows from a nearby doorway. Darius realized they were Ancients sent to kill him. "Darius of Rome. You have  become drunk in your own pride and greed. You have interfered with the workings of man and placed us in jeopardy. For this  crime we sentence you to death." Darius only laughed bitterly and Challenged Mark first. Hopefully before he faced the second  his guards will have arrived. "You Ancients are the one drunk on hubris and foolishness. What right do you have to tell me what  to do? And how to behave in the affairs of man? Come, let’s get this over with. Perhaps after I take both your heads the Order  will leave me in peace." Mark moved quickly and with great speed in spite of his size. The Immortal learned to fight in the North  and then learned how to fight Romans when they came destroying everything in their paths, making slaves of his people. His  hatred of them burned and fueled his sword-arm.

        Then there was Another and it was Tais. She ran into one of Gaius’ killers and managed to knock the information from the poor  fool. He was currently trussed up with her belt unconscious of his fate. Dayash saw her and his eyes narrowed. She had no  choice and neither did he. Darius threw a glance and felt panic rise in his throat. She could not possibly face an Ancient and live!  "Spare her for your fight is with me!" He offered to the other but the man did not listen as he approached her.

        "So you are the cowards sent to kill Darius. Two against one? Where is the honor in that I wonder?" She asked as the man  circled her.

        "We kill each other young one for that is what we must do. And there is no honor in murder. But we must do it for Darius has  overstepped the boundaries far too many times. If you wish to live, run and run far." The man offered to the woman but she  steadfastly refused. Then the two began their own fight in earnest. Darius heard the clashing of her sword against the other  assassin but he had to concentrate on his opponent if he had any chance of rescuing her. The fair brute was enraged and that  meant an opportunity for Darius. This battle was personal for him, and Darius was intelligent enough to guess why.

        "Tell me did you fight this hard when we came to your village?" He taunted and was blessed with a roar from the blond giant.  "Or did you abandon your women and children to fight for their own? Not that you could have children but I must think that you  had a woman on the side…" The fool made his first mistake and lunged too far. Darius nimbly stepped aside and gashed the  man’s side open. It was a crippling wound and Darius knew who the winner would be. But the giant stood up ignoring the pain  and swung his sword with great speed barely missing Darius’ head. The Roman jumped out his opponent’s reach and prepared  for the next encounter.

        Tais was actually giving Dayash huge problems with her fighting skills. She was combining all she had learned before and what  Andronicus had shown her that afternoon in Nerum. And with her ambidextrous talent Dayash could not guess which hand  would deliver the attacking blow. Dayash also made the same mistake every man had made before; he miscalculated her  strength. He thought because she was a woman and was so small she would rely on her speed and agility. But she didn’t and  managed to hold her ground. This lesson was paid with Dayash’s blood as she left dangerous wounds on his legs and arms. Tais  knew that behind his feet, right above the ankles were tendons that once cut would incapacitate a body. She wasn’t aiming to  kill him outright because she could not so she planned to cut him down in parts. It was a brutal way to die but she was taught  well by her father who was in many ways a brutal man.

        With two engagements she found herself facing his back and before he could whirl around she cut the tendons. He placed his  sword high, thinking that she was going for the back of his neck so it blocked nothing. Suddenly Dayash felt his legs give way  and crashed to the ground on his knees. He was shocked as his legs would not obey nor give orders to his feet. She came  around to his front and easily knocked his sword from his grasp. "We are numerous and we will not stop. Even now there is  another." The man taunted but she didn’t respond. A look of pity flashed in her eyes and following with same swiftness her  sword came across. The body fell, truly lifeless now and his Quickening was freed from its shell. The others stared at the scene  in shock but it was Darius who recovered first. Mark wasn’t able to block the well-placed blow and his side was once again  deeply cut. This time the giant tree gave into the pain and Darius made a quick work of it. If what he learned was correct, time  was of the essence. For a connection could be made when two Immortals shared their Quickenings and he knew that would  bind her closer to him still. He saw her close her eyes as the Ancient’s power seeped into her pores and mind. The same was  happening to him and the sensation crept into his blood violating his senses.

        She felt the earth move underneath her feet and her sword was blown clear from her grasp. Her hair felt like it was being  whipped off her scalp as Dayash’s Quickening sank into its new owner. Her blood began to boil inside her veins and her mind  saw everything Dayash had seen and participated in. And she understood what she’s seeing. The Quickening was combining  with her ancient knowledge and she was learning, absorbing and in a way becoming Dayash. She was able to control its  power and direct it to a corner in her vast mind. She was able to keep it alive, like all the memories of the priestesses before  her. She didn’t digest it and make it a blind power source like the Others but a compass in her life. Then suddenly she felt  Darius as Mark’s Quickening rested in the Roman victor. Her emotions for him at this moment were more powerful than ever  before. Every part of her body and mind was aware of him as if he was the center of the storm called her life. In her mind he  found a home and she tasted his glory as he could taste hers. She finally opened her eyes and saw him staring at her with his  right hand outstretched to her almost touching her own extended arms. The two had shared in their growth and triumph  invariably binding them to each other like the moon to earth. Even Romulus and Remus could not have been this close and  Darius succeeded in what he wished. They have twinned mind and body.

        Tais collapsed to her knees exhausted by all that happened and he was barely able to walk to her in order to hold her. With the  last bit of strength he had Darius began shouting for help and soon frightened citizens who heard the ruckus and felt some of the  Quickening finally braved beyond their closed doors. They were shocked by the carnage of a scene. Darius’ men hearing the  disturbance frantically ran to their leader’s side. They saw the two decapitated bodies of the assassins but didn’t shrink away in  disgust like the citizens. It was just another foiled attempt at their beloved leader’s life, one that will need much bloodshed to  placate them. The Imperator was notified that night of what had passed and he wondered who was involved with this piece of  stupidity, was it Gaius or Marius? Or do they have a new enemy in the city?

        A trusted servant was nursing Tais for she didn’t escape from the conflict without wounds. Darius was swiftly recovering and  ordered his men to find the tied bundle that she left behind. Then he returned to her side and found her in his room pacing back  and forth anxiously.

        "The assassin said there was another. Darius they are serious about seeing you dead. We must find this third and then…" He  gave a soft kiss on her forehead. "And you must rest. I cannot believe that you challenged an Ancient on my behalf but I am  grateful for it."

        "Darius, what happened out there? What have we done?" She whispered fearfully.

        "We have done nothing wrong Tais. We shared in our Quickening, an occurrence that rarely happens since Immortals usually  trust no one. And now you’re in me as much as I am in you. It will be fine and after we find out who is behind all this, we will be  safe. Go to sleep Tais. I will join you soon, I promise." She obeyed more out of exhaustion than his coaxing. He saw her safely  to bed and placed enough guards around the inner chamber to make it impossible for anyone to threaten her again.

        He returned to the lit courtyard where the prisoner waited with broken ribs. His soldiers got to him and had some time alone  with the killer. His quartermaster Antonius stood there with a snarl on his face, he wanted to continue the beatings but Darius  gave specific orders that the man be kept alive. If it wasn’t for that witch Darius could be dead! And Antonius couldn’t forgive  himself for this oversight. He will find the murderers behind this attack and make sure they never see another day again. His eyes  burned with that thought and Darius was glad, he wanted his men angry and blood-driven. They will spread fear on his behalf  and he wouldn’t have to do a thing.

        "Well, this is not the turn of events you’ve been hoping for am I correct?" Darius inquired cheerfully. "But then how could you  expect this to succeed? Even as we speak the Imperator is demanding that you be handed over to his personal guards. And  what will they do to you I wonder? And what will I do to you? Both questions are very painful to think about aren’t they? But I  offer you a choice. This bottle here," With a graceful emphasis he placed a beautiful little jar on the table, no bigger than his  thumb. "Contains poison. It has no taste and you will feel no pain. Your place among the living is gone you must realize this. So  listen carefully, you can have this if you just respond to a question. You don't even have to speak, just nod to signal a yes.  Because I am almost quite sure who is behind this mess. You won’t even have to tell me your name so you can continue to  protect any you care for in your silent death. Does this seem fair or as fair as can be?" The dying man looked up, tears coming  down his bloodied face in rivers. He nodded.

        "I am glad then. It was Gaius?" The man nodded just once. Darius sighed out loud, "Get a messenger out to the Imperator and  tell him the name. Arrange a meeting with him for tomorrow morning. We have lot to discuss and much to carry out." He handed  the bottle to the man who managed to pull the wooden top from the jar with the few teeth he had left. Slowly and with shaking  hands he drank the dark liquid. He closed his eyes waiting for the poison to work, nothing happened. With dawning horror he  realized that it wasn’t poison and he stared at his tormentor’s face.

        "Animals like you do not deserve mercy. You murdered my second-in-command. Did you think I would spare you after that?  Take him outside my gates and finish him. Make sure everyone who is within hearing distance hears him scream." Darius  stormed out of the room.

        The Senate was still a threat, Octavian should have destroyed this last symbol of the Old Republic but he was determined to  carry on some tradition. And though the Senate was packed with the Imperator’s men there were some from the old times and  they hated Octavian as much as they detested Caesar. Only if Octavian was able to pluck these weeds! The legatus was now  determined to do this on his Imperator’s behalf even if the man wouldn’t do it on his own. Darius returned to his room and  found Tais in deep sleep. She protected me…stepped between an Ancient and myself, for honor and love, certainly love?  Such bravery and loyalty, she is capable of it, and more. Now it’s my turn to repay in kind and make sure no harm befalls  on her. I don’t think I could survive if anything happened to her because I was neglectful. I must make sure… Suddenly a  keen wail pierced the dark sky and followed by another and yet another. But Tais slept through this and Darius stayed awake  until silence fell over his home again. Then he crawled besides her finally letting go of the terrible day. His last thought was that  she was now forever joined with him.

        Octavian did not sleep. They tried to kill Darius! And if it weren’t for that woman he would be dead! His faithful  sword-arm, his killing hawk, how dare they do this! His anger broiled into black rage. Did the Roman army not sacrifice  itself to bring Rome all her riches and gold? Did it not build those roads that showed the world what Rome truly was? An  empire built and forged on blood of men like Darius! And