Post by Romae Fabulus on Jun 27, 2006 16:25:11 GMT -5
The huge villa of the Preator, Publius Maximus, stood before Gaius Scipio’s eyes. He had been there before a couple of times, with his father. His father Cornelius Scipio had been good friends with Publius Maximus. They had served together in the war against Carthage, in which they won every battle and defeated every army that marched against them.
“Gaius Scipio. Long time no see”
Publius came out of his villa, after he had spotted Gaius on his way through one of the windows.
“Publius, I have missed you”
A broad smile came across Gaius’ face when he saw the old man coming out of the grand entrance to his villa. He hadn’t changed a bit. Still the steady eyes and long black hair, although the hair was getting a bit gray.
Publius led Gaius into one of the living rooms where one of his servants brought wine and some appetizers.
“So Gaius, what have you been up to lately?”
“Only the normal stuff, you know, join the legions, thinking about this revolution that’s been going on.
“Ah, yes, the Revolution. So, what are you doing in the legions?”
“I’m a Decurion”
“A cavalry commander?”
Gaius nodded.
“Pff, cavalry. Your father and I didn’t need any cavalry when fighting the Carthaginians. These only real roman army is the Legion. The heart of Rome, Our beloved foot soldiers.”
“You know, Publius, the times have changed. Not only are cavalry essential in our strategizing, but they are also faster than foot soldiers and can be used to carry out tasks that the infantry cannot.”
“Well, I still like the foot soldiers better. I was one of them, you know. Ahh… those were great times.”
“Yes, I sure do believe that. But I’m not here to discuss the past, I’m here about the future.”
“You want to ask me about the rebellion?” Publius’ tone become more serious.
“Yes, I do,” Gaius responded without hesitation.
“Leave us,” Publius said to the servants in the room. “Now, what did you want to ask me?”
“Well, mostly, how you stand in all this.”
A short pause
“Well, Gaius, as you probably know, your father had great expectations for the Republic of Rome. He wanted justice in the lands of Rome and thought that the senate would be the best way to uphold it.” Publius paused and took a sip of the wine before he continued. “Me and him didn’t share many political opinions, but this was one of the few, that the Republic was how Rome should be. That is why, I, deep under do support this rebellion, at least in theory. But be advised, should I be asked in public by the King or his representatives I will not admit it. And don’t think that I am betraying your cause…Yes, your cause, I know you would be a part of an uprising like this one, you wouldn’t let an opportunity like this slip out of your hands, now would you?”
“Well, no” Gaius said, surprised by how much Publius knew about him and his personality.
“Now, where was I. Ah, yes. Don’t think I would be betraying the cause, it’s only that a Praetor that the King likes is has more effect in a Rebellion than a Praetor with no head” Publius said and smiled. “But now, let us discuss something more enjoyable. I will make sure that this evening will be as pleasurable for both of us as possible. Servants…”