Maximus' Story
Chapter 31 - Hercules Two
Olivia walked at a leisurely pace down the lane that led to the rear of the house. On the way she commented about the running of the farm. "We keep the stallions over there and the mares over here. Some of the stallions we have to separate from the others and they are in pens behind the stable. Mares with foals are in the stable as are the mares in early pregnancy. Do you want to see them?"
At Maximus' nod Olivia pulled open the heavy door and picked up the lantern that was just inside. Carefully, she lit three other lanterns and placed them on stone slabs far away from the straw. "Fire is our greatest enemy," she commented. The interior was still quite dark but Maximus' eyes rapidly adjusted and he followed the snorts and soft whinnies to the stalls that contained beautiful mares with sleepy foals. Maximus gently scratched behind the ears of one animal while he admired her young foal who was standing next to her on wobbly legs.
"He's only a few days old. His father is Argento so he'll be a beauty." The soft lamplight illuminated Maximus' face as he admired the horses and Olivia was moved by the softness in his eyes and the gentleness of his touch. They continued down the stable until they reached the last stall. "Do you like dogs?" Olivia asked.
"I love dogs. I had one at camp for years. He actually belonged to the general but he was really mine."
"What happened to him?"
Maximus hesitated. "He died."
"I'm sorry," she said, then her face split into a broad grin. "I like dogs too. Look in here." She pulled open the stall door and a drowsing puppy tumbled out onto the stone floor with a surprised yelp. That was enough to wake his siblings and soon the stall was alive with squirming gray and black puppies.
Maximus laughed and bent to pick up the first dog. "May I?" he asked, gesturing to the stall.
"Of course. They love to be petted."
He walked onto the straw and sat down, careful that no pups were underneath him. Immediately puppies were all over him, chewing on his leather tabs, biting his boots with needle-sharp teeth and scratching his arms as they tried to climb to his face. Two made it and he felt warm tongues lick his ear and neck. He laughed with pure delight.
Olivia lit another lantern and held it high so Maximus could better see the animals. He spied the mother, then, quite unconcerned about his presence as she continued her sleep. She was pure black and difficult to see in the shadows. Suddenly Maximus yelped and grabbed a puppy that had found his ear lobe and munched down hard. He held the struggling bundle aloft to better see it. "He looks like a wolf cub!"
His mother disappeared for a week and when she came back she was pregnant. I think his father is a wolf because I can hear him howling to her sometimes at night and she calls back. It's very sad, really, that they can't be together." Olivia crouched down beside Maximus and looked at the gray puppy he was studying. "That one in particular looks like his papa."
"He'll be magnificent."
"Are tribunes allowed to own dogs?"
"Oh yes --," Maximus started before he realized what she was implying.
"Well ... would you like to have him?"
"Are you sure?"
"Of course. We can't possibly keep all of these dogs on this farm and few people want an animal that has a wolf for a father."
Maximus cuddled the puppy to his neck. "Thank you." He smiled at Olivia. "When will they be able to leave their mother?"
"In about a week -- lots of time for you to think of a name for him."
"Hercules. His name is Hercules."
Olivia didn't need to be told that his other dog had been named Hercules. She sat close beside him and they silently stroked the puppies until they fell asleep again then placed them near their mother for warmth before exiting the stall.
As Olivia headed for the door she felt a gentle tug at the back of her hair. She stopped but didn't turn around then shivered as Maximus' lips touched her ear.
"There's straw in your hair," he whispered as he gently combed his fingers through the thick mass. Olivia closed her eyes and savored the feel of his touch as his fingertips brushed her back, arms and shoulders. "There," he said, his voice very deep and hushed. "I think that got it all." Still Olivia did not move so Maximus wrapped his arms around her waist and buried his face in her hair at her shoulder breathing deeply the rose scent of her. She melted back against him feeling an unfamiliar tingling in her breasts. Could he feel her heart pounding? She felt his lips on her neck and with a cry of regret she pulled away from him and spun around.
"I'm sorry," he whispered. "I had no right to do that."
Olivia's breathing was unsteady. "We'd better leave," she said and reached to douse the lantern by the door.
As she did so something on the windowsill caught Maximus' eye. "Wait." He stilled her hand. "What are those?"
"Carvings. Mostly horses and dogs."
Maximus picked one up and turned it over in his hand. "This is wonderful. The proportions of the horse are perfect. Who did this?"
"I did."
"You did all of these?" He was amazed. "When do you find the time to do things like this?"
"I can work on one sometimes for months. Other times I can do one in a few days. It depends on how busy we are with the horses. I carve them mostly over at your place."
"My place?"
"Yes. Your home has always been an escape for me from this crowded farm. A place of solitude. It's quiet there and I can think."
Maximus leaned a shoulder against the windowsill and let her continue, her face softly shadowed by the moonlight.
"I was upset the first time I saw you there. I guessed who you were but I resented your intrusion into my space -- or what I considered my space."
"That climbing rose over the door ... did you do that?"
She nodded. "The fire had pretty much killed it but it was trying to grow again so I pulled the weeds away and made sure it had water. For years I've used the blooms to scent soaps that I use."
"I can smell the roses in your hair." Maximus reached out a tentative finger and stroked her cheek. "It still is your place and you can come there anytime you like. I hope you don't mind sharing it with me."
She studied his face. "What do you look like under all that fur?"
Maximus laughed. "I'm pretty ordinary."
"I doubt that." She playfully pulled his beard. "I'll bring my scissors and razor next time I come. I cut all of my brothers' hair."
"When will that be?"
"When would you like it to be?"
"Tomorrow."
"Alright."
"Your father doesn't mind you being alone with me?"
"Should he?"
Maximus was silent for a long moment. "I don't know."
"I believe he trusts you, soldier. And, I believe he likes you -- he likes you a lot." Suddenly Olivia laughed. "At dinner he was looking at you the way he sizes up stallions he intends to breed.
"Oh, really. And do you think I met his standards?"
"Let me put it this way. If you were a stallion, you'd be kept very busy around here." She boldly moved very close to Maximus, her breasts brushing his leather cuirass. "But, this mare just might not be very happy if you service any other mare."
Maximus pulled her into his arms, his lips teasing hers. He deepened the kiss and she matched his passion, their tongues touching and teasing.
Olivia pulled away from him just before Persius burst through the door.
"I knew it. You've spent the whole time in here. I knew you wouldn't show him the breeding barn! Come on with me, Maximus. I'll show you around."
Maximus grinned and winked just before he disappeared through the door, hustling to catch up with her brother.
Olivia leaned her forehead against the cool glass and watched him dissolve into the blackness of the night. She knew now without doubt that this was the man she was going to marry.
Did he know it too?
Chapter 32 – Rebuilding
The next morning Maximus sat on the stone wall of what had once been his house while Olivia trimmed his hair and beard with a razor. Persius was dressed in Maximus' bulky metal armor, swinging his sword, decapitating every bush and shrub within his reach.
"Is he safe with that thing?" Olivia asked.
"Probably not," replied Maximus. He had been so disappointed to see Persius trotting beside Olivia when they approached his property that morning.
Olivia had merely shrugged and said, "Papa insisted."
"Smart man," Maximus muttered under his breath.
"Did you say something?" asked Olivia.
Maximus reached back and grabbed her hand bringing it to his lips. "Can't we get rid of him?"
"What do you suggest?"
"I don't know," Maximus sounded dejected. He released her hand.
"My father gave me a lecture this morning about a mare in season and a spirited stallion," Olivia laughed.
"It may not seem like it after last night but I would never take advantage of you."
Olivia continued to work quietly for a while moving around to the front, her breasts level with Maximus' eyes. He groaned. Maybe it was a good thing Persius was here after all.
"When do you have to go back, Maximus?"
"I don't know. I was hoping to stay for the summer but I may get called back before then."
"A soldier doesn't have much of a life outside the army, does he."
"Many soldiers have women and families. Legions don't move around all that much so they meet local women and have children with them."
"But they're not married. Soldiers aren't allowed to marry. I think that's a ridiculous law."
"It has a purpose, I suppose."
"And what would that be?"
"To keep a man's mind on the fighting. When he retires, the union becomes legal and the children legitimate but not before then."
"Are you telling me that not one soldier in all of the Roman empire is married?" Maximus could sense that Olivia was angry because her grip on his hair had tightened.
"Some are. Sometimes a soldier can be granted special dispensation to marry for one reason or another," Maximus said slowly. He debated about continuing but decided to tell her the truth. "Marcus Aurelius gave me such dispensation."
Her hands froze. "What? You're allowed to marry? Why?"
"I'll tell you someday."
Olivia dropped the razor to the wall and grabbed the sides of his face. "Tell me now."
"Sit down."
"No. Tell me."
Maximus sighed. "Many years ago I fell in love with the daughter of Marcus Aurelius." He stopped.
Olivia digested this information. "Did she love you?"
"Yes. She was betrothed to emperor Lucius Verus at the time but I didn't know that. She didn't tell me. I was very upset when I discovered her lie and Marcus Aurelius granted me permission to marry a woman of my choice in compensation. I have it in writing."
"What was her name?"
"Does it matter?"
Olivia glanced at her brother who was still playing soldier then sat on Maximus' knee. "No, but tell me anyway."
"Lucilla."
"Was she beautiful?"
"Yes. But no more beautiful than you."
"Do you still love her?"
"No. No, I got over her quite some time ago. It is not Lucilla that I love now."
Olivia pressed her lips to Maximus' forehead and closed her eyes. "You love someone now?"
"Yes. A beautiful young woman with flowing black hair who haunts my dreams."
"Isn't that odd. It's a soldier who haunts my dreams."
Maximus wrapped his arms around her and held her tight. "Olivia, I have nothing to offer you, not even a home."
"You have everything to offer me, my love."
"You are used to such luxury. I am a fairly wealthy man but I have no home to speak of, no security, no guarantee that I'll be here when you need me."
"Many men have offered me all of those things but I didn't want them."
"I live in a shack."
Olivia laughed through the tears that were streaming down her face and she turned to look at the wooden lean-to. "You certainly do, my love, but it looks big enough for two."
"I wouldn't even think of asking your father's permission to marry you without a proper home to offer you." Maximus whispered.
Their intimacy was interrupted by Persius who had managed to kill a rabbit and held it up proudly for them to see, fresh blood dripping down his arm. "Look what --"
"Go away!" the lovers shouted in unison and a shocked Persius scampered off in the direction of the stream.
"Maximus, listen to me." Olivia dropped to her knees and took his hands in hers. "I'd rather live with you in that wooden shack than live one more day without you in my father's villa. I love you, do you understand? How often does a woman have the opportunity to marry a man that she actually loves?"
"I love you too."
"Then --"
"No. Not until I have some sort of proper house. It doesn't have to be large but it has to be secure."
"Stubborn man." Olivia stood and placed her hands on her hips. "You leave me no choice, I see." She turned and shouted for her brother. "Persius! Come here! We're going home!"
"You're leaving now?" asked Maximus but she refused to respond.
Her brother reluctantly stripped off the too-big armor and fell into step beside his sister as she started down the lane. "Bye, Maximus!" shouted Persius.
Maximus waved to him then dropped his hands to his hips as he watched the two depart.
Early the next morning Maximus was jolted from his sleep by the sounds of an army marching through his property. No -- not an army -- but certainly a lot of men. He stepped outside blinking in the sunlight and ran his fingers through his hair, forgetting that it was considerably shorter than it was a few days ago. He rubbed his eyes in astonishment. Hundreds of farm workers and male slaves from Olivia's estate were here and they all carried tools. Her brothers were here as well, as was her father -- all riding magnificent stallions. Behind the men came a dozen or so women led my Olivia bearing enough food to feed them all for the day.
Titus called out to an astonished Maximus, "Where do you want us to begin?"
His brain still numbed from sleep Maximus asked, "Begin what?"
"To rebuild your house, of course. Olivia said you needed a new house right away so we're here to help."
Maximus looked at Olivia but she turned away busying herself with some baskets.
"Umm I just I just want the cottage rebuilt for now. I'll enlarge it another time."
"Anything else? We've got lots of manpower here."
"Well, the garden needs to be cleared --"
"Done! You just sit back and take it easy, soldier."
All the day the men labored under the orders of Titus who occasionally asked Maximus to clarify what he wanted. By nightfall his home was standing again, almost exactly as it had been before the fire. The earth had been cleared too and was ready for planting. Maximus had no idea how he could repay this great kindness.
As Olivia prepared to head home she said to him, "I expect to see you at my place tomorrow, soldier."
Maximus grinned. "I'll be there."
Chapter 33 - The Wedding
Maximus and Olivia were married a week later.
The bride wore a traditional tunic of white wool with a garland of wild flowers woven into her black hair which was divided into six fat ringlets that fell down her back. A translucent flame-colored veil was draped gracefully over the garland and it floated when she moved. On her feet were saffron-colored shoes and she carried a small bouquet of wild flowers in her hand. Maximus wore his dress uniform of wine-red tunic and trousers, boots, the leather cuirass and long cape.
Augusta brought the bride and groom together in the courtyard of the villa which was filled with fragrant flowers and joined their hands. The two then vowed to love one another and remain faithful to each other and exchanged rings which each wore on the third finger of their left hand. Prayers were offered to the gods and goddesses of weddings then Marcus and Maximus signed the marriage contract which was witnessed by Titus and Eusebius.
"That's it, my boy," Marcus laughed. "You are part of this family, now!" The patriarch had grown very fond of this young man and was pleased to see his only daughter marry a man that she truly loved -- a very rare event indeed. It didn't hurt, either, that Marcus now had a high-ranking military man as a son-in-law who had direct access to Marcus Aurelius. What a joyful day this was.
Maximus admired the ring that Olivia had slipped on his finger. It was silver with the eagle of Rome embossed in it. "I had it made especially for you," she said. "I thought the eagle was appropriate."
Her ring was a solid gold band with a sizeable emerald embedded in its center. Maximus had traveled to Merida to find what he wanted and had purchased some furniture while there as well. His home was still very simple and plain but quite presentable for his new bride. It now had a large, comfortable bed with a carved headboard and four posts that supported curtains that could be pulled for warmth or privacy. His purchases also included an assortment of chairs and tables, rugs and kitchen utensils. Maximus made arrangements for an extension to be added to his home starting a week after his wedding. The present structure would become the kitchen and an atrium, dining room, bedrooms and lavatory would be added. His home would never be as elaborate as the villa his bride had grown up in, but Maximus knew she would not be disappointed.
The newlyweds and all of the guests sat down to a marriage feast that surpassed anything that Maximus had ever imagined. A whole sheep and pig had been roasted and the table groaned under the weight of platters of vegetables and preserves. Fresh fish had even been imported from the coast -- an almost unheard-of luxury -- and wine flowed freely.
Later that evening, after the festivities at the villa had ended, Maximus walked towards his stallion to return to his home and await the arrival of his bride. But, instead of Argos, Argento stood saddled in his place. Maximus stopped and stared.
"He's yours, son." Marcus said as he joined Maximus in the lane. "I can't think of a man that I would rather have ride the finest horse in the empire. We'll take good care of Argos for you. Look, he's in the field right there enjoying his retirement. Maybe I'll even find a filly or two for him to make friends with."
"I'm overwhelmed, sir. This is too great a gift. You've done so much for me already."
"Nonsense. Just make my daughter happy, Maximus, that's all I ask. And when you have to leave again you can be assured that we'll look out for her."
"Thank you, sir."
"Marcus."
"Marcus. Thank you."
Maximus approached Argento slowly talking to him the whole time. He stroked the animal's nose and forehead and scratched behind his ears, gratified when the horse nuzzled him. As he grabbed the saddle preparing to swing up onto the stallion his ears detected a soft yipping sound and he stopped. It was coming from a leather bag that was tied carefully to the saddle. The bag was wiggling and a furry gray head with huge ears and a black nose popped out, followed by a massive paw. Maximus laughed and pulled Hercules all the way out getting his face washed in appreciation."
"I don't know why you have to bother with that dog tonight of all nights, Maximus, but Olivia insisted.
Maximus smiled and handed the squirming bundle to Marcus to hold while he mounted Argento then he tucked the puppy under his arm and headed home at an easy canter.
Shortly afterwards Olivia arrived in a flower-bedecked litter that was carried by her brothers. She was surrounded by well-wishers holding flaming torches and singing wedding songs accompanied by flute players in colorful costumes. She stepped gracefully from the litter carrying garlands of flowers which she hung on the posts by the door before Maximus swept her into his arms and kicked the door shut behind them, a clear signal to the crowd that the party was over. Smiling knowingly they started to disperse.
Maximus dropped Olivia's feet to the stone floor but she clung to his neck until he kissed her. Placing his hands on her hips he moved her away from him so he could present her with a small lighted lamp and a bowl of water to symbolize that she was now mistress of his house. She glanced at his gifts but quickly dismissed them. There was only one gift she was interested in right now. When Maximus turned to douse the lamp she launched herself at him. He turned just in time to catch her against his chest but the momentum knocked them both into a chair which slowly toppled spilling them onto the woven rug shrieking with laughter, his body under hers and the leather cuirass cushioning their fall.
Their lips met again and she opened her mouth to receive him completely, her hands fumbling with the buckles of the cuirass. Finally, in frustration, she smacked his hip and said, "How do you get this thing off?"
Laughing, he said, "The cape comes off first," then he rolled until she was under him. He rose to his knees and pulled the cape over his head then quickly unbuckled the leather straps, dropping the cuirass to the floor beside him. "Better?"
"Uh huh, but don't stop there, husband."
Smiling down at her he unbuckled the belt next and dropped it on top of the cuirass while she grabbed the hem of his tunic and pushed it up until his hands were replaced by hers and that garment, too, came off over his head.
Grabbing the waist band of his trousers Olivia pulled herself up until she could wrap her arms around his back. Very slowly and deliberately she spread soft kisses over his chest followed by her tongue which left wet trails on his skin. Tangling his hands in her hair Maximus removed the veil and garland then pulled her head back and captured her mouth once more. Without removing his lips from hers he rose to his feet pulling her up with him. His nimble fingers found her woven belt and it dropped to the floor, immediately becoming a toy for Hercules who dragging it in his mouth around the room, growling and shaking his head. Olivia's white tunic joined Maximus' red one on the floor. Naked now, except for light linen undergarments she pressed her body against his clearly feeling his desire for her, but once more Maximus moved her away from him and her undergarments soon joined her tunic on the floor.
Suddenly realizing that she was standing naked in her new home her eyes darted to the windows half expecting to see Persius peering through them, but their passion had left a film of steam on every one and their privacy was assured.
Maximus' hands and eyes roamed her curves, touching every peak and valley. "You are so beautiful," he sighed. Suddenly distracted, he looked down at his foot to discover Hercules biting at the laces of his boots, obviously tired of his previous toy. Maximus chuckled as he bent and opened the puppy's jaws to free his foot then rose quickly and swept Olivia into his arms, taking her breath away. "The bed will be much more comfortable," he whispered. "Besides, we won't have to worry then about what Hercules will decide to play with next." Olivia laughed as Maximus carried her into the bedroom and she pushed the door shut with her hand.
Suddenly realizing that he was alone, Hercules sat down and stared at the bedroom door. He whimpered. The door didn't open. He yipped. The door still didn't open. He tried his high-pitched puppy bark. That didn't get him anywhere either. Finally, he gave up and curled into a ball on top of his master's cape deciding to sleep until his playmates came back.
The next morning Augusta and Flora delivered a basketful of food and wine to the doorstep of the newlyweds. The next morning they did the same only to find that the first basket remained untouched. Giggling, they replaced it with the full one. The next morning they found the second basket gone and the unhappy gray puppy tied up outside.
The windows were still steamed over.
Chapter 34 - General Maximus
Maximus stood with his arm around his wife, her softly rounded belly and full breasts making her look more beautiful than ever in his eyes. In the four months since their wedding their home had been finished and the crops planted. Maximus knew that this woman, this home, and their child was all he really wanted in life. He was a very contented man.
Maximus refused to buy slaves knowing that some very fine men who happened to be on the losing side of a battle were sold into slavery. Instead, he employed men from the village to work the fields and women to do the cleaning. They had a fulltime cook. Maximus did not want Olivia to lift a finger if she didn't want to. Selfishly, he wanted all of her time and energy to be directed to him.
Every morning when he left the house he crouched and scooped a handful of dirt which he rubbed into his palms then brought to his nose to sniff, reminding him what was really important in life. His home was large but simple with enough room for the many children that he and Olivia hoped to have.
Hercules sat beside the couple, all legs and ears. He had grown like a weed and still had plenty of growing to do. It was obvious that the animal was going to be huge and he was already totally devoted to Maximus. He trotted at Argento's heels every day when Maximus exercised the stallion and he was amazed that the dog hadn't been trampled or kicked.
The only flaw in his life was a nagging feeling of guilt that visited him sometimes when his mind was not otherwise occupied. He had been gone from the army for months now, far longer than he had intended to stay away. Although he had no desire to return he suffered attacks of guilt wondering if he was needed in Germania and what Marcus Aurelius must think about his long absence. He needed to be in two places but he wanted to be in only one -- right here beside his wife. Not wanting to distress Olivia, he kept his doubts to himself. Until one day -- a day that would change his life again.
Olivia had been in an upstairs room and had seen the Praetorians from the window.
Maximus!" she screamed, her voice echoing over the hills.
He tore back to the house at full run and Olivia threw herself into his arms at the door, pointing a shaky finger towards the lane. Maximus felt a cold dread in his heart as he watched the procession of two dozen Praetorians in full uniform and carrying the golden eagle of Rome ride towards him.
Leaving his wife, he walked out to greet them.
"General," said the centurion as he bowed his head slightly to Maximus.
Maximus looked at him in some confusion. "I think you have the wrong man."
"Are you Maximus Decimus Meridius?"
"Yes."
"Then you are indeed the right man." The Praetorian dismounted and handed Maximus a small package. "A letter from the emperor, General."
Maximus tore open the envelope bearing the emperor's seal and read as he slowly walked back towards Olivia. Even at a distance she could see the blood drain from his face and when he dropped to his knees in the dirt she ran to his side.
"What is it? Maximus, what is it?" Olivia was terrified.
Maximus looked up at her. "Lucius Verus is dead. The emperor is dead."
Although Olivia was sorry to hear that she had no idea why the news would have such an impact on her husband. She crouched beside him, her arm around his shoulder, shielding him from the eyes of the Praetorian guards with her body. "What else?" she coaxed.
"I've been called back to the army -- as General of Felix III legion. Marcus wants me to leave immediately."
A wave of dizziness washed over Olivia and she clutched at Maximus to keep from falling. He rose with his wife in his arms and carried her back to the house taking her inside out of the sun and sitting her on a chair. He crouched before her. "There's more," he said. "Because of the emperor's death, Marcus Aurelius has also appointed me commander of all of the northern legions."
There were tears in Olivia's voice. "Can you refuse?"
"No." He pulled Olivia to him and buried his face in her hair. "I'm sorry," he whispered. "I'm so sorry."
Olivia stroked his hair and tried to smile through her tears. "Well, I certainly am married to a very important man." A noise at the door caused her to look up. The Praetorian centurion stood there with a large parcel on the floor. "What is it?" she asked sharply causing Maximus to raise his head.
"Excuse me, General, but this parcel is also from the emperor."
Maximus addressed him. "Where is Felix III right now?"
"At Vindobona, General, waiting for you."
Maximus shuddered. He had hoped never to see that place again. He walked to the door and dragged the parcel inside. "I have forgotten my manners, centurion. Take your horses to the stables and they will be taken care of then a meal will be prepared for your men. We may have to house them at a neighboring estate. I'm not sure I have enough room here."
The Praetorian looked at Maximus without emotion. "I believe your orders were to return immediately... General."
Maximus turned a glare on the unfortunate Praetorian that made Olivia's blood chill. "I need three days," he said in his lowest growl as he slowly stalked towards the man. "We'll leave in three days. Is that understood?"
The Praetorian held his ground but could not meet the general's eyes. "Yes, General. Three days."
"Now do as I commanded and take your horses to the stable. I'll make arrangements for your men."
"Yes, sir." The Praetorian turned with a swirl of his cape, glad to remove himself from the icy glare of Maximus.
Olivia simply stared in amazement as Maximus barked orders to the staff. "Cassius, ride over to my wife's family and tell them I need to house two dozen men for three days and I need their assistance. Also, tell Marcus and Titus that I need to talk to them right away."
A round-eyed Cassius simply nodded and scurried off to fulfill his master's wishes.
Maximus now turned his attention to the parcel. He lifted it with a grunt as it was very heavy and carried it into the atrium, Olivia right behind him. He stared at it for a while as if loath to open it until Olivia placed a knife in his hand and coaxed, "I wonder what's in it?"
Maximus quickly snipped the rope and pulled the fabric away then stood back as a shield and sword tumbled out, followed by a metal cuirass and two luxurious wolf pelts. Hercules summoned his deepest growl when he saw those and the fur on his neck rose.
"Be quiet, Hercules," commanded Maximus and the dog lay down, his head on his huge paws, his brown eyes still on the wolf pelts.
Despite her churning emotions, Olivia could not help but gasp at the magnificence of the contents. She tried to lighten the mood a little. "Well you'll certainly be the most handsome general in the army." But she couldn't maintain the lightness for long and tears flooded her eyes. Maximus caught her just before her body crumpled in sobs of terrible grief.
That night Maximus explained the situation to Marcus and Titus. Although upset that he had to leave, the two men were terribly impressed that the commander of all of the northern legions was a member of their family. They stared in awe at the armor that remained on the floor, still guarded by Hercules.
Marcus tried to be reassuring. "You have nothing to worry about, Maximus. We will make sure that everything around here runs as it should and that Olivia is well cared for. Augusta and Flora will be with her when she gives birth."
"I intend to be back for that occasion," Maximus said firmly and Marcus raised his eyebrows in doubt. "Nothing in this world will keep me away, do you hear? I will be back for the birth of my child."
"I believe that you will be, Maximus. I believe that you will be," said Titus at the resolve in his friend's voice. "As a matter of fact, I'd like to see any army try to stop you!" Titus grinned but Maximus' face remained serious.
He said, "I have much to do in the next few days and I will need your help."
"Anything, anything," the two men muttered. "We're here to help."
Olivia was too upset to stray too far from their bedroom. She could not bear to see Maximus prepare the estate for his absence even though she knew he was doing it for her. He promised her he'd return for the birth of their baby but she knew he may not be able to keep that promise. Already her world felt more hollow and empty as her husband's personality changed in almost imperceptible ways. He smiled less and issued orders more. He spent hours staring into the flames of the fire in the evenings, lost in his thoughts. The lines of strain that had been in his face when she first saw him had returned and he tossed in his sleep at night. She comforted him as best she could but was too crushed under the weight of her own terrible loss to be much help to him.
Finally, the day she dreaded arrived.
The Praetorians assembled in the lane, anxious to be on their way and Olivia stood on the steps outside her house watching them. She heard Maximus' footsteps behind her and turned to see a man she hardly recognized. He was dressed in the full uniform of his new status -- only the wine-red tunic was recognizable. His new cuirass was heavily carved with a wolf's head in the middle. A long cape was draped over his shoulders and tied at the front. On each shoulder rested a magnificent wolf pelt that fell to his knees in the back, joined at the front by a chain. His hair was cropped short and his beard trimmed neatly. Under his arm he carried his Attic helmet with the elegant crest.
He looked magnificent.
Maximus grabbed her hand and pulled her inside mustering up one of his dazzling smiles. "I'll write to you at least twice a week. I promise. Look for my letters. And don't worry about me. I'll be quite safe." He gestured outside. "Look at the kind of escort I have. Nothing will happen to me."
Olivia nodded. She was determined not to let his last image of her be of a woman weeping and wailing but she felt the lump in her throat that made speech difficult. Without saying a word she pressed a small leather pouch into his hand.
"What's this?"
She looked at him, her eyes brimming with unshed tears. "Don't forget me," she whispered.
Maximus pulled the drawstring and took out the small carved figure of a woman with a slightly rounded belly. One arm was extended towards him. "You did this for me?"
Olivia nodded, the tears overflowing her eyes and spilling down her cheeks. Maximus' eyes, too, filled with tears.
"I'll treasure this," he said, his voice unsteady. His lips brushed hers then he stepped past her into the sunlight struggling to maintain control appropriate for a general. His eyes swept the hills of his home and he stepped onto the dirt of the lane. Crouching, he scooped a handful of the soil and rubbed it between his palms then lifted it to his nose. He never wanted to forget who he really was. Then he walked with a steady stride towards Argento and was surprised to see a nearly identical animal tied behind him. Marcus stood beside the horses beaming at him.
"This is Scarto, Argento's brother. Every general needs two horses in case one pulls up lame. It would be my honor if you would accept him, General Maximus, commander of the northern legions." Marcus bowed in great seriousness.
Maximus placed his hands on his hips and waited until his father-in-law straightened. "I would appreciate it, Marcus, if you would never bow to me again -- and my name is simply Maximus." He grinned. "I thank you for the gift. He is incredible." The two men embraced briefly and Maximus whispered in his ear, "Take care of her, Marcus."
"I will, son. Have no fear."
Maximus mounted Argento and glanced down to make sure that Hercules was with him. He steered the horse to the front of the Praetorians then patted the small leather pouch tied at his waist and waved to the dozens of people who had assembled to see him off. His eyes caught his wife's and he winked and smiled.
She returned the smile with a radiant one of her own then stood and watched until her husband, and the black-garbed guards, disappeared from site over a hill. She stood even then until the cloud of dust raised by the horses was no longer visible either. She patted her belly and said reassuringly to the child within, "He'll be back, baby. Your papa will be back."
Chapter 35 - Felix III
The emperor knew that Maximus had finally arrived when he heard the cheers of the soldiers of Felix III. It started very faintly -- in the distance -- and Marcus could follow the progress of his new general with his ears simply by the location and volume of the noise surrounding the man. He smiled in satisfaction. He knew he had made the right choice.
The patrol spotted their new general when he was still miles from camp and word spread like fire that Maximus was indeed back in Germania. When he rode through the gate soldiers surrounded his horse making Argento shy and prance in surprise. Some just stared at him, others reached out towards him, many cheered wildly and shouted his name. Soldiers raised their swords in salute and he smiled and raised his weapon in return.
Maximus scanned the crowd of unfamiliar faces and felt oddly displaced. But then his sharp blue eyes caught a glimpse of someone he knew very well and his smile widened to a broad grin. "Quintus!" he called out. "What are you doing here?"
"General!" Quintus elbowed his way through the crowd and grabbed Argento's bridle, a welcoming smile on his face. "The emperor felt you needed at least one person here that you knew so I was transferred from Felix VII and promoted to tribune."
Maximus leaned over and clasped hands with his long-time friend. "I hope you don't mind, Quintus. I really do appreciate your being here." He lowered his voice and leaned close to his friend's ear. "I'm going to need all the help I can get."
"I seriously doubt that, Maximus, but I'll do what I can." Quintus gestured to the praetorium gate. "The emperor's waiting for you."
Maximus kneed his horse through the crowd and with the aid of Quintus clearing a path for Argento, he finally reached Marcus. Maximus dismounted and dropped to one knee before his emperor, the soldiers behind him quiet now. Smiling fondly, Marcus bid him rise them wrapped him in a tight embraced before stepping back to admire his favorite soldier. He nodded his head and winked. "I knew you'd look good in those wolf skins."
Maximus regarded his mentor with some concern. Marcus looked much older than when he had last seen him -- his hair streaked with gray and the lines in his face deeper. He couldn't believe it had been only a few months. "I was so sorry to hear of the death of Lucius Verus, sire. It came as quite a shock."
"To all of us. He was fine one moment and dead on the floor the next. The surgeons think he had a stroke. He did not suffer any pain."
Maximus hesitated then said slowly, "Is it proper to say that I missed you, Sire?"
"It is not only proper it is very welcome. I missed you too, Maximus." Marcus looked at the crowd of soldiers who were watching them closely. "They welcomed you like a hero."
"I haven't done anything to deserve that, Sire."
"Oh, I think you have I think you have." Marcus gestured towards Argento. "That's a fine horse -- befitting a general."
"He was a gift from my father-in-law."
The emperor's face lit up like sunshine breaking through a cloud. "You are married?"
"Yes, Sire. I took advantage of my... leave... to find a wife." Maximus was obviously still uncertain about Marcus' feelings regarding his unapproved absence.
"Well, I couldn't be happier. I truly mean that. Trust you to use your leave time so wisely. Now, come inside with me. There is much to discuss." With that, Maximus knew that the issue of him leaving the army so abruptly would never be raised again.
Maximus followed Caesar into his tent, although tent was hardly the appropriate word to describe the dwelling. It was lavishly appointed as well as very comfortable with chairs, couches, tables, statues, busts, armor, draperies, rugs and Marcus' large desk with a huge map of the empire behind, all softly lit by dozens of lamps.
Marcus gestured for Maximus to sit and took a chair himself. The emperor then ordered food and drink for them both before getting down to business. He described the events that had taken place over the last few months: the loss of the general of Felix III legion; the devastating effect of the death of Lucius Verus on the entire army; the strengthening of the tribes across the river from Felix III -- and all along the Danube.
"Who replaced General Claudius, Sire?"
"Another tribune from that legion named Fabius. You probably know him." Maximus nodded. "Do you think he'll be a strong leader?" Maximus shook his head. "My feelings too, I'm afraid. We seem to have a dearth of good leaders at the moment, Maximus, which is why your role is more important than ever You are a general of generals, Maximus. Although your base will be with this legion you will travel a great deal from one to another making sure that all is in order, leading battles where needed. I trust you completely. I trust in your abilities completely, and you bring great comfort to this old emperor."
"Thank you, Sire. I hope I will not disappoint you."
"Well you haven't yet. Not since you were a boy." Marcus' smile was warm. "You must be very tired."
"I am just beginning to realize how tired I am."
"Come, let me show you your quarters which are very close to mine. I think you will find them comfortable."
Marcus led the way across the praetorium and opened the door of another large tent, indicating with his hand that Maximus was to precede him inside. "Maximus, I'd like you to meet Cicero, your personal servant. He is a soldier who was injured badly and has elected to serve the army by serving its general." Cicero's injuries were clear from the deep scars that marred his face.
"Cicero" Maximus extended his hand and his servant grasped it firmly.
"It's an honor, sir," he replied in a lilting accent.
"You'll have to help me understand what your duties are, Cicero. I have never had a servant in the army before. I've always done everything for myself," Maximus smiled.
"You're to worry about nothing except the running of the legions, sir. I'll take care of all your day to day needs. I believe I have the easier job." They all laughed.
"I'll leave you to get settled in, Maximus. We will meet again first thing in the morning." Maximus nodded. Marcus started to turn away then stopped. "Oh... and Maximus."
"Yes, Sire?"
"I shall sleep much more soundly now that you are here."
