Bara

Flavius Aulus

Book IV, Chapters 9-16

Chapter 9

A few days later an ISS agent found himself in a small cosy office in the Imperial palace. He was desperately trying to remember that the kindly official pouring him a coffee was his Emperor. The ruler of the largest Empire the world had ever seen, wanted information and understood that allowing visitors to relax was more important than demanding full recognition of his rank.

"It's taken me three months to get the odd grunt when I go in there." the agent was saying, "That boy could have been their long lost grandson. I mean no disrespect, sir, but I can't see what you could possibly want with him."

"Why do you say that?" the Emperor asked.

"Well he's good looking and could charm the birds from the trees." the agent replied, "But he'd be as likely jump on them as feed them."

"So you don't recognise him."

"No sir. He's not known to me." the Agent replied, "He looks a bit like the boy governor, I mean His Excellency Flavius Aulus, but there's nothing noble about him. He offers his arse to anyone with a bit of cash and he's too ready for a fight. He's teamed up with another no hoper, Al Simmons."

"Do you know anything about Simmons?"the Emperor asked.

"Only what's on the guard's computers." the agent replied, "He's close to enslavement through burglary and car theft. From what I hear in the Golden Eagle he's added accomplice to pickpocketing but the guards haven't picked up on it yet."

"What about personal observations?"

"Like I say, he's heading for enslavement or worse but he's sharp enough and there's no real malice in him but you can never tell with that sort."

"And there's still no sign of Gus Tenyo?" the Emperor asked.

"No sir." the agent replied, "Simmons is a friend of his so he might know something if I could get closer but it'll take time."

"No. Don't try." the Emperor hesitated, "This is probably a breach of security but I don't want you interfering. The new boy, Jerry is it, is Flavius Aulus. He's undercover. You say he's too ready for a fight. How many as he had?"

The agent frowned, "Now that you mention it, none that I've seen sir."

"Flavius reckons that negotiating a deal on the stock market is the same as doing a deal with a fence. The sharks have different teeth but they're still out to bite your hand off. He shows his own teeth to make the others more careful."

The agent laughed, "He does that all right. So do you want me to be ready to pull him out if he gets into trouble."

"For your own sake, don't try it." the Emperor said, "He'd knife you if he had to. He'd try to ensure that you'd make it to hospital and yes he's that good but it would be a real and probably painful wound. Observe, pay for some of his arse and get close if you like but do not interfere."

"Even if his life's in danger?" the agent asked, "I shouldn't be letting a governor get killed."

"You've seen him." the Emperor said, "And now you understand better so make sure that he really has lost control of events before you meddle."

The agent had much to think about as he left. For once he had information that was for his ears only. He could not even tell his superiors. He also had the feeling that his future was in Flavius' hands. If Flavius survived unscathed he would be remembered for his discretion and skill but what if Flavius was harmed? Supposing he did intervene and he ruined the operation? He almost hurried back to the Golden Eagle tavern. He needed a drink.

Despite the agent's opinion of Al, Flavius was discovering a warm, caring side to him. He lived in a poor district where crime was the main source of employment and violence substituted for law. Some people revel in such a situation, using their own innate viciousness to make their way. Al was one of those who buried his humanity just enough to survive. Although he was trying to maintain his street wise persona, Flavius was a naturally affectionate young man.

It was not altogether accidental that Flavius had teamed up with him. His slave David had been close friends with Gus Tenyo and Al, looking out for each other with a bond between the trio that stemmed from a need for companionship in a cruel world. There were others but Al had always been David's first choice and Flavius was just a little fortunate in finding him so easily.

Al did well enough from his thieving to afford a dingy room with facilities shared by a dozen other rooms. Sometimes when the squalor got to him he'd turn to alcohol or some other drug but other times he would escape Rome altogether and lose himself in the green open spaces, imagining owning a vineyard or living in one of the ancient villas he visited.

The one thing no one expected was that Al would fall in love with Flavius. Apart from Flavius' ready help with Serge, Flavius was an energetic lover leaving Al exhausted and as drained as Flavius himself was. Al had never experienced a companion that would give of himself so completely and it triggered emotions that had long been repressed.

Flavius liked Al but saw him as a way of finding Gus and discovering what Prince Ignatius was up to. Flavius could not ask about Gus directly and was waiting for a time when Al met up with him or simply mentioned him.

"So what about your friends?" Flavius asked after they had been together for about four days.

"No one like this Jamie of yours." Al replied, "It's off putting when I'm just getting going and you call me that."

"Sorry." Flavius replied, "I'll tell you about him one day."

"When you tell me your real name." Al retorted, "Is it Jerry, Fabian or Cassius?"

"I'm sorry." Flavius said, "I really am. I want to tell you but I'm not ready yet. I don't suppose you'll tell me about yourself instead."

Al grabbed Flavius' balls and laughed, "I reckon we should both have our secrets or tell all. What do you think?"

"It sounds fair." Flavius replied.

"I've had enough of all this." Al said, "If we carry on thieving we'll end up enslaved or crucified. I've lost a lot of mates that way and I don't want it to happen to you. What say we get some stake money and open a stall somewhere. Not in Rome but far enough away so that we're not recognised."

"Selling what?" Flavius asked, startled.

"I know a bit about cars. I could refurbish parts and with your gift of the gab, you could sell them."

"OK, why me." Flavius asked, "Surely you've got mates who'd be better than me."

Al pulled Flavius forward and kissed him.

"I had two close mates." Al whispered, "One got himself enslaved, the other's too scared to show his face. I'd like something better for you."

Flavius was in a quandary. He did not doubt Al's sincerity and was sure that Al wanted to save him but would he still be willing if he knew the truth? At the same time he did not want Al trying to drag him away from Rome.

"Will you answer a question without asking any questions in return?" Flavius asked.

Puzzled, Al nodded.

"OK, just answer yes or no. Are your two friends David and Gus?"

Al looked shocked.

"How did you know?" he gasped.

"I said, no questions." Flavius replied, "I know David. He's alive and well. He talked about where he grew up, and about you and Gus. David reckons that Gus kept an eye on his family and wants to help him in exchange. He mentioned you because he wants to help you too."

Al stared at Flavius before brushing the younger boy's hair back and examining his face.

"You look just like that brat governor." Al said, "David's enslaved to him. You'd better explain more."

Flavius shook his head.

"I've been watching the guards." he said, "They're tied up to a couple of fat money lenders. When they're not sending their henchmen to recover debts, they're offering protection and the guards get their cut. True?"

Al nodded so Flavius continued, "How about helping me to clean this place up? After, you could have your stall here and have Gus helping you if you wanted."

"What about you?" Al asked, "You're in danger."

"I've got safe houses scattered around the city. There's a few other things as well. Sorry, I can't tell you everything but I can give you a safe house of your own. Go to the main public entrance of the Imperial Palace. Give your name and ask for Room Four Twelve Seven."

Al stared at him eyes wide open and mouth open then gradually relaxed.

"I suppose you could know someone there but isn't he taking a risk helping you?"

"He'll be OK." Flavius smiled, "Now, I'm straddling your groin for some reason but I can't remember what it was."

Al relaxed even more, bucking his hips to remind Flavius. The thoughts whirling around his mind eased as his attention was drawn to his cock nestling between Flavius' thighs. Al did not precisely forget the conversation, he left it in the back of his mind, rationalising it as a kid's fantasy. From his point of view, nothing much seemed to change.

Flavius still used the empty office that he had originally planned on sleeping in. He stashed money under a loose floorboard and knew he could leave a message in an emergency. He was careful to see that no one followed him so it was effectively one of his safe houses. It was a few days later that Flavius was returning alone from the office building, heading towards the Golden Eagles that he was stopped by two guards.

They quickly spread-eagled him against a wall and searched him. It was a professional search but they found nothing so Flavius was a little surprised when they cuffed his hands behind his back and led him to a car. Instead of being taken to the guardroom he was taken to a smart town house. Flavius was led through the back door and down into a cellar.

He took in the desk and comfortable chair behind it and was aware of the eye-bolts in floor, ceiling and walls as his ankles and wrists were manacled to them. His tunic was ripped off and he was left spread-eagled again, unable to move and completely exposed. The guards left leaving him in complete darkness. Flavius understood what was happening, he had used the technique himself. He was being softened up ready for questioning or at least to be more cooperative.

He had completely lost all sense of time when the light finally came on. It had been long enough for him to need to empty his bladder and the man who entered wrinkled his nose in disgust.

"Why can't scum like you control yourself?" he growled as he hosed down Flavius and then the floor. When he was satisfied he spoke into the intercom and waited until another man entered the cellar. Flavius recognised him as a so called money lender Septimus Balnovi. Flavius thought of him as a loan shark. Septimus could once have been a soldier or even a gladiator but with good living he had allowed a layer of fat to mask what had once been a muscular body. He sat down behind the desk

"You owe me money." Septimus said, "How are you going to pay it?"

For a moment, Flavius was genuinely puzzled, "How can I owe you money? I've never…"

Flavius' reply ended in a yelp as a fiery pain arced across his back. The henchman had used Flavius' own belt to strike him.

"You owe me money." Septimus repeated, "How are you going to pay?"

Flavius hesitated, uncertain how to reply and yelled again as another stroke seared his back.

"You owe me money." Septimus repeated yet again, "How are you going to pay me."

"I'm not sure how much it is." Flavius said quickly, "But I'll pay you as quickly as I can."

Flavius tensed ready for another blow.

"If you're going to operate from my territory then there's a licensing fee. It's payable in advance so you're late in paying which means interest and a fine. You need to pay insurance to ensure no one disturbs you in your work. That's in arrears too so there's more fines and interest.

"From now on you live here. Don't worry you'll have a room and a clean bed but you'll bring everything you steal to me. In the evenings you'll entertain my friends. Apart from the personal services you provide you'll fight. Do a good job during the day and it'll be wrestling matches where the winner fucks the loser. Fail to bring in the cash and you'll be promoted to blood fights."

Septimus stood up to stand just in front of Flavius and grabbing his balls. He squeezed, causing Flavius' eyes to water as his face screwed up with the pain.

"You try to run and I'll cut them off before I feed you to the dogs. Those fights are interesting to watch as well. I think we need a tracker though, don't you?"

"Please sir." Flavius whispered, "The marks won't trust me if they see a tracker."

Septimus stepped back and punched Flavius in the stomach.

"Convince me you're not trying it on." Septimus said quietly.

"I only wear a half tunic because it seems as if I can't hide anything." Flavius said, "It makes me seem honest. A tracker would mean I'm not trustworthy so they'll be on their guard more."

Once again Flavius tensed waiting for more pain. Instead, Septimus leaned forward and gently kissed Flavius' neck.

"We can get one that goes up your arse with a lock around the base of your cock." he whispered, "Just think, if you try to remove it you'll cut your manhood off for me."

"Yes sir." Flavius whispered, staring at the floor.

Septimus kissed him again.

"Don't be so sad." he said gently, "You won't be doing anything you're not doing now. I'll fetch that Al boy to keep you company. You'll have something to come home to then."

It was pure imagination but Flavius could smell the stench of death about Septimus. He shuddered at his touch but his cock only knew physical stimulation. With adrenaline preparing him for pain torture, blood coursed through his veins but gentle caresses to his skin diverted the blood to his lower region and his manhood swelled.

Flavius was sharp enough to know that he should respond as well and despite his revulsion pushed against the man. Septimus was vain enough to think the shudders were those of pleasure and gently stroked Flavius' back.

"It's a pity you're only a whore too scared to refuse me." Septimus said, "I could believe you wanted this."

"Don't sell yourself short." Flavius said, "I can still feel the soldier's body."

Septimus froze, pulled back and stared angrily at Flavius. For once Flavius was truly scared thinking that he gone too far. Suddenly Septimus let out a deep, sincere laugh.

"You are good." he said, "I was going to leave you here for now but you may as well rest in your room. I've got a job for you. Have you ever heard of Gus Tenyo?"

"Al's mentioned a Gus." Flavius replied, "Why?"

Septimus slapped Flavius' face, waiting until his head cleared.

"Be careful." Septimus said, "You're my slave now and you'll remember your place. Don't look so shocked, there might not be any paperwork yet but that's the reality. Confine your insolence to flattery, I enjoy that."

Yes Master." Flavius meekly replied.

Septimus laughed again, only this time it was shallow and full of menace.

"Good whores know how to say the right thing." he growled, "Maybe one day I'll trust you but not for a long time. Find out where Gus is."

He turned to his henchman, "Fix an ankle chain so he can't run then put him in his room. Then tell Sergeant Paulo to pick up Al Simmons."

Flavius was pleasantly surprised to find himself in a comfortable bedroom complete with en-suite bathroom. There was even a window looking out over a garden. He checked the door which was unlocked. He could not run though. The chain between his ankles was long enough for him to walk normally but it was heavy enough to drag uncomfortably and to attract attention.

As he left the cellar, he had managed to grab his tunic and belt which lay on a small table. The door opened and Septimus entered followed by Al being led by the henchman.

Septimus glanced at the tunic.

"You can throw them away." he said, "When I want you dressed, I'll do it properly."

"Can I keep them, please Master." Flavius said, "They feel right when I'm working the markets."

"Superstitious are we?" Septimus laughed, "Your next punishment will begin by watching them burn, so behave."

He swept out of the room leaving Flavius alone until the door opened again and Al was pushed into the room. The henchman shackled Al the same as Flavius. As he left, Flavius put his his finger to his lips and pointing to the light fitting. Al nodded in understanding.

"So what's the score?" Al asked.

"Dunno." Flavius replied, "I reckon we could do all right here if we keep the guy on side. What's his name, Septimus?"

"I doubt it. A lot guys get brought here. They don't come out."

"OK but we make a good team thieving so we'll earn him money. I reckon he fancies me. He's not so bad looking and I reckon he knows a thing or two so it could be fun. He wants us to find your mate Gus. We'll need a bit of freedom while we do and if we succeed I reckon he'll think that we're useful to him when he wants things done."

"Maybe. You think we can string him along while we look for Gus?" Al asked.

"No, we'll have to play it straight. I don't even want him thinking that we're taking him for a fool."

They fell silent, content to cuddle each other.

Flavius had guessed right about the bugs, though there were no cameras. Septimus listened carefully. Although Flavius accepted that things could easily go wrong while undercover he did not consider that he could have the odd lucky break.

While thinking that Septimus would respond to a little flattery, Flavius did not realise that Septimus had a deep rooted fear of losing his virility. As he approached the end of middle age he feared that his power and control would wane so that he lost everything. Flavius' off hand remark about him still being attractive struck a deep chord. Septimus would cheerfully applaud as a blade was driven into Flavius' gut and laugh as Flavius screamed out his life in appalling agony but he wanted to preserve that interest in his physical prowess.

He slept badly that night with his emotions churning him up as if he were a lovelorn teenager again. He was still unsure the following morning and all he could think of was inviting Flavius to breakfast.

Flavius was surprised to be politely woken as a henchmen removed his ankle restraints and offered him a smart full tunic.

"Master has invited you to breakfast." the henchman said, "Will you accept?"

Intrigued Flavius agreed.

As Flavius stood like a respectful slave, Septimus warmly beckoned him over to a dining couch.

"Please relax." he said, "I know that our business dealings are a little unpleasant but please, you're a guest for now."

"Thank you." Flavius replied, "It does feel a little odd though."

"Maybe but you're not the sort to cower in a corner and that's why I want to talk to you. I can get as many guys that are big on muscle but small on brain as I want. You're clever and you want something. Maybe we could work together."

Flavius shook his head, "I'd always be the slave. If you didn't like what I said or did, what would happen?"

"Most boys would just say yes please and try to take advantage." Septimus said, "I think that you're worth listening to. Supposing I was to say that if you let me down or betrayed me I'd skin you alive then roast what's left over hot coals."

Flavius was thinking fast. All his showing off about how he could read people seemed like a hollow sham. At that particular moment his life was in as much danger as if he was in the arena. He had to judge Septimus correctly.

He got up to sit on Septimus' couch before running his hand up the man's thigh under his tunic. Septimus was briefly angry at the invasion before surrendering to the exploring fingers.

"That would feel nice in my arse." Flavius said as he handled Septimus' cock, "We'll have to try it some time. Al is part of the deal. We've talked about finding a small town and setting up a stall. I want to do that sometime so you'll give us the stake money. Normally I don't like bank cards. They're too easy to trace and round here, there's not enough money to risk it but I've been thinking about the tourists around the Imperial palace though. They'll be rich with bank balances to match. If I got the cards could you do anything with them?"

Septimus knew that he should be yelling for his henchmen to grab Flavius to crucify him but it was his cock that was doing the thinking. Flavius wanted it enough not to include it in the deal. Only one thing bothered him.

"I don't share my bed partners." he said.

"I'm not your bed partner." Flavius said firmly, "I'm up for some fun with you but I don't want any lovey-dovey nonsense from you."

Again Flavius was way beyond what he should allow but the boy was again saying that he was sexually exciting. Septimus meekly nodded in agreement.

"Tell me about taking the cards." he said softly.

"I reckon that I've got a week or two at the most. First day I do the touristy stuff and apply for one of those Imperial training programmes. I can wander around holding the forms and look as if I've got business there. There's a lecture course for applicants so I can attend that. I go for the wallets every other day. Who's going to be suspicious of little old me. Now you're in, you could find a couple of boys to hang around when I'm working. If the guards pick up on us then they'll see me there on business every day and those boys only on the days wallets go missing. It won't matter if they're picked up because they'll be clean."

Septimus nodded.

"They call it, running interference." he said thoughtfully, "I've got an important dinner tomorrow night. I've even got Prince Ignatius coming. I'll have to show you off to them."

"No thanks." Flavius said, "Show me off too much and that Prince guy will want me as a gift. I've had enough of fat, old men pawing over me."

Prince Ignatius was a little younger than Septimus and a lot fitter but a mere street boy would not know that and it was still flattering to be compared so favourably to him.

"Good point." Septimus said, "I want you to listen to the conversation so you'll serve. Can you do that?"

"I can but maybe I should look like a whore sitting at your feet. Draw whiskers on my face and shove a tail up my arse and no one will recognise me."

Septimus frowned, "Are you scared of being recognised?"

Flavius nodded, "It's your guests. There could be someone I've done."

Septimus nodded, "I'll see what I can do."

Flavius knelt down, hands behinds his back and bowing his head.

"Am I going to be punished for my insolence, Master?" he asked.

"No." Septimus smiled, "Just never betray me and you'll have your stall. Off you go now and perhaps you will dine with me this evening."

"Yes Master, what about the tracker?"

"Just remember, you were picked up by the guards. I'll know where you are."

Flavius smiled, stood so that he could lean forward and kiss Septimus on the lips.

Not long after, Flavius and Al were standing in front of a reception desk in the Imperial palace.

"I have an appointment in Room Four Twelve Seven. My name is Jamie Carter."

Al looked at him.

"Just what is your name?" he whispered.

Flavius grinned.

I think you know but you'll find out for sure, soon enough."

It was Kieran who led them through to the Emperor's office. The Emperor looked sternly at Al.

"Can you trust him?" he asked bluntly.

"Yes sir." Flavius replied, "He suspects that I'm a spy and thinks he knows my name but he hasn't said anything."

"You've lost weight. I don't think a life of crime agrees with you."

Flavius grinned, "It's a lot simpler than my other life, sir. Or it was."

He went on to explain events in the home of Septimus Balnovi.

"So Balnovi is looking for Gus Tenyo as well and the family idiot's sniffing around the lower classes. You might as well know, the idiot's getting involved with the Outer Ring Alliance. We're having to prop up King Orga while Scandinavia's trying to close its border with them. It's their drugs cartels and they're getting Russian and Japanese support. Now that Columbia's all but settled ORA cartels are bigger players. On the surface everyone agrees with our stand on drugs but there's more people involved than we care to admit to. The idiot's a pawn for some very clever people so he's a lot more dangerous this time."

The Emperor paused, "I'm pulling you out." It's too dangerous and I don't think that you'll learn much more."

"I might hear something tomorrow night though." Flavius said.

"Even the family idiot's learning to throw slaves out before they talk. I've heard that he keeps a couple of unsuspecting ones to serve then kills them. It's too dangerous now."

"I wish I could find Gus, though." Flavius said.

"So do I." the Emperor said, "I hear that he was serving at one of those private talks and had the sense to scarper before the end."

"Scarper sir?"! Flavius chuckled, "The football team's getting you into some very bad habits."

The Emperor smiled in his turn before becoming serious, "I also hear things that I shouldn't. I'm beginning to feel ashamed of my capital city."

"Your capital city?" Al exclaimed, "Surely it's the Emperor's…"

He tailed off, looking desperately between Flavius and the Emperor.

"Who are you?" he asked Flavius, "No fucking around this time. Who are you?"

"In the right clothes, I'm His Excellency, Flavius Aulus, sometimes known as the brat governor." Flavius grinned, "In these clothes just Flavius."

Al turned to the Emperor

"He calls you, sir, so are you the Emperor?" Al asked almost dreading the answer.

"I try not to be in this office." the Emperor laughed, "As a result I get more done in here than in the rest of the palace."

"I didn't know. I really thought Jerry, I mean Flavius was some bastard relative who had been thrown out."

"I can't go back without Al and I don't think he can maintain my cover any more." Flavius said.

"Agreed." the Emperor said, "I'll send for the rest of your friends and you can stay in an apartment here. We'll see what my other agent turns up at tomorrow's meeting. Then I think that you should go home."

"Your other agent?" Flavius asked.

"It's on a need to know basis." the Emperor said, "Let's leave him in peace for now."

The meeting was over and Kieran took them to their apartment. Al looked around, awestruck.

"Are we really staying here?" he whispered.

"I'm afraid so. It's a bit small especially with my friends arriving but we'll manage." Flavius chuckled.

"Small!" Al exclaimed, "How did you cope in that mouse cage of a room I live in?"

"It was fun with you." Flavius said, "Listen. Things got out of hand and you could have betrayed me. You didn't so now you've got some pretty important friends. You'll have to decide what you want to do."

"Maybe I should apply for one of those training programmes. I could get used to living here."

"I'd sponsor you." Flavius said, "There's a problem though. You'd have to spend six months working in my palace as a servant. There's a reason."

Al waited.

"The old guard here see me as bringing all the old rubbish in from the streets. They don't see beyond your bank balance and your badges of rank. The Emperor gets round it by demanding that I put my money where my mouth is."

Al nodded, "I know I'm rubbish. He saw through me."

"He's pretty smart." Flavius said, "He tries to get to know people and doesn't rely on what's on the surface. He visited a school once. The school board tried to push forward some of the top drawer kids. They were dressed smartly, knew how to bow and kneel and he ignored them.

"He spotted a runt of a kid still a bit muddy because he was bullied and had been pushed over in some field. He sat down beside this kid and went through his schoolbooks. To cut a long story short, half the teachers, the headmaster and the school board were fired on the spot. The boy was the son of an ex-slave and the school wouldn't let him forget it."

"It seems a bit like a TV soap." Al said, "You know, everyone living happily ever after."

"Not all together." Flavius said, "He takes a real interest in the football leagues here. We all get excited after a match. He doesn't care if his Kieran hugs him and gets his toga muddy because everyone else drops their guard. He'd already heard about the school before he visited."

"There's real resistance to his reforms." Flavius continued, "This school was one of the worst. He went there to make a speech and spotted this kid because he was looking for something like it. There are fairy tale parts to this story though."

Al waited expectantly as Flavius concluded, "The Emperor made it clear that the kid was now his protégé and there was something else. One of the spoilt rich kids was sixteen and a brilliant writer. His father discouraged him, trying to make him follow the family business. The Emperor read a couple of his stories and gave him a pass to the Imperial library. The father can hardly stop him writing if he's got Imperial support. He's often around and he's a nice guy. You'll like him."

"If the Emperor's that good he'll find out I'm just a burglar and thief." Al said sadly, "I'll be kicked out then."

"Your file was probably on his desk." Flavius said, "The point of my story was he does his homework. If your district's got a league team he knows a lot more than the file and he hasn't kicked you out yet."

Al was in shock as he sat heavily down on the nearest chair. Flavius stepped over to put his hand round Al's shoulder.

"I've got a chance, haven't I?" Al whispered, "I'm not going to be enslaved or crucified, am I?"

"Not unless you do something very stupid." Flavius said, "Welcome to my other world."

"Your real world." Al said.

Flavius shook his head, "'It's what I'm born to do. I'm happy with it but I want to know it's my choice. When I was looking for Gus it was just me. It's odd because I failed but I know I did my best and I don't think I did so bad. At least I know I can survive outside the provincial palace."

At that moment the door opened and Kieran showed Flavius' friends into the apartment. Jamie excitedly ran across to leap up at Flavius wrapping his arms and legs around the older boy and planting a kiss on his lips.

Brutus, Steven, Luke crowded around leaving Al feeling lost until Flavius called him over.

David had only seen Flavius but now he stared at Al a broad grin spreading across his face.

"Jamie, I want a hot bath, a bed and a slave who'll look after me." Flavius said, "Any problem with that?"

Jamie shook his head, grabbed his hand and pulled him towards the bedroom.

"We won't see them again today." Brutus laughed, "Kieran, are you staying or do you have to get back."

"He's visiting Brian tonight." Kieran said, "I can stay until tomorrow."

He giggled.

"I can also tell you what I know before David tortures it out of me."

Brutus noticed Al looking on, slightly shocked and puzzled.

"The Emperor jokes that Flavius trains the rudest slaves in the Empire." he explained, "David's the worst. If it's for Flavius' governorship, he'll face down the Emperor. He doesn't spare Flavius either if he doesn't remember his position."

"Does Flavius ever remember his position?" Al asked looking at David thoughtfully.

"You'll see." David replied, "How about telling us what's going on."

Al and Kieran explained all that they knew.

"Why is it that plots are always so mysterious?" Brutus asked, "Why can't we just find the enemy and send in the troops."

"We've found the enemy." Luke said, "Or rather Flavius and this Senator Stallone have. Now we're gathering intelligence on their positions. It's a pity we can't speak with the Senator though."

"I can get his assistant's number." Kieran said, "Hang on."

He darted out the door returning about twenty minutes later.

"Archie and Lord Stallone will be here at four." he said, "Oh and the Emperor wants to know if Brutus and Steven want to pick up anything from the armoury."

The two boys in question grinned.

"Let's see what we can do with the bedroom and wander down." Brutus said then glancing at Al added, "It's where they keep the chains, whips and stuff. Steven sleeps better if he's chained spread-eagled on the bed."

"Brutus doesn't though." Luke chuckled, "He lies awake planning what to do with Steven."

Al laughed uncertainly with the others. He was the oldest one there and the most unsure.

He remembered something about David supporting Flavius on TV though he had not seen the show. David and Kieran were in slave brown but they showed no fear. From the way the others looked at him, it even seemed as if David was in charge yet Brutus had mentioned the Emperor staying at his father's vineyard. He shrugged, Flavius would seem to be in charge even when he was tied up waiting for the lash. All he could do was wait and see how events transpired.

Chapter 10

Al was right, David was in charge. Under his directions the other boys stripped apart from the gold chain around their necks then busied themselves preparing the room for their other guests.

"You're a guest as well Al." David said, "So just take it easy. This is now House of Sparta territory and we have our own way of doing things."

A little later David squatted on the floor beside Al's chair, "Gus would love it if he knew how worried we all are. He'd come waltzing in and ask if there was a problem."

Al chuckled, "That's about right. I am worried about Gus but what about me. The guards wanted me for a couple of break ins before I met Flavius, then there's all this stuff I've done with him."

Kieran overheard him, "From the moment you met Flavius, you've been on the ISS payroll. Or at least that's how it'll read when the paperwork's done. There's not much we can do about the stuff you did before. Just don't talk about it. The guards are going to have a lot more to worry about than investigating a thief who's not getting into any more trouble."

"The corruption thing." Al said, "Nothing ever happens about it."

"It will now." Kieran chuckled, "They made a big mistake picking up you and Flavius and taking him to a private individual. It's difficult starting an investigation. There's unsubstantiated rumours, malicious accusations, witnesses being intimidated. In this case we've got facts and two separate events. It gives us a way in."

"How come a kid like you knows so much?" Al asked.

"I like working for his Imperial Majesty." Kieran replied, "I don't get to hang around with mates all that much but he and I play all sorts of games."

Kieran grinned, "He won't let me kneel under the desk and suck him off while he talks to someone but he's pretty good when he does get going."

As often happens, while Al's mind was diverted by Kieran's tales. a memory surfaced.

"Didn't Gus once say that his real name was Giuseppe Caggerano?" he asked, "He claimed that he'd just visited his grandparents."

David frowned but Kieran said, "His grandparents are dead and the family name was Tenyo."

"No, it's all coming back." Al said, "We'd all had a few and David was well out of it. Gus never knew his father who disappeared before he was born. Tenyo was his mother's name. From what Gus said, his parents were in love until he got in the way. The father ran and his mother turned to drink. Anyway, she kept something, a religious book of some sort and it had this name in it. He was trying to clean up when she was particularly bad and he found it.

Al paused, "Yes. It was just after she died. Gus disappeared for a few days. He'd kept the book safe and decided to return it. He never talked about it except for that one time and he just kept saying, 'My name is Giuseppe Caggerano' over and over again."

I can look it up." Kieran said.

"Are you going to tell Flavius?" Brutus asked.

"No." David replied, "He needs to wind down. We'll call him when Senator Stallone arrives. I'm phoning Philip."

Al sat chatting to the other boys until Kieran and David were ready.

"He's coming to this meeting." Kieran announced.

Kieran was the only person ever to refer to the Emperor as just 'he'. The Emperor himself described it as Flavius' bad influence but since it shocked the more conservative members of the Imperial staff so much, he never complained.

"He also agrees about letting Flavius rest." Kieran continued, "I think he wants to see what we can do on our own."

"Have you found anything?" David asked.

"There's a family by that name about twenty miles from here. They own a farm. The Emperor says it's a very conservative area. They're likely to hate Gus for upsetting their family values but would never refuse him if he needed help.

"Phil now says that he only saw Gus once. The rest of the time he saw a guy's back who could have been him." David said, "He could have come back expecting to be safe then cleared off when he discovered it wasn't."

"So what do we do?" Kieran asked.

"Al and I should go out there and talk to him." David said, "We'll try and persuade him to come back with us."

"Don't you need permission?" Al asked.

"No." David said, "Kieran can brief the Emperor while he arranges a car. Are you still friendly with Pablo?"

Kieran nodded.

"We can't drive." David continued, "Pablo will have to and we need a car that's anonymous. I don't want to be spotted. Cars leaving the palace often have curtains drawn for privacy."

"I can drive." Al said then paused, finally understanding, "But not if I'm sitting in the back out of sight."

Al spent the journey quietly considering his changing fortunes. Despite being older, he had always admired David and even now could not resist studying his muscular legs.

"Do you ever get treated like a slave?" Al asked suddenly.

"I have to behave like a slave." David replied, "But it doesn't feel like being a slave. If Flavius greets a guest, he's formal polite and is the governor. I have to kneel or bow my head and keep in the background and be the slave. The thing is it feels more like doing my job. I don't feel bad for having to do it."

"Until some fat slob grabs your balls."

"Again it's part of the job." David explained, "If Flavius spots anything he'll say something about leaving the slave fit to work or even that he's needed for other duties. But you've seen what he puts up with; we can't complain about a bit of rough handling without sounding a bit wimpy."

Al nodded but still needed to understand, "Are you happy as a slave then?"

"I'm happy as Flavius' slave." David replied, "I wouldn't want to be sold to Septimus Balnovi though."

Apart from the occasional conversation with Al, David spent the trip wondering how to talk to the Caggeranos. In the end he decided on a simple approach when he was greeted by an elderly but distinguished looking man.

""I'm David." he said, "This is Al Simmons and we're looking for a Gus Tenyo. He's in danger and we're hoping that we can find him before a lot of dangerous men do."

"And these dangerous men offer rewards which you want to claim." Caggerano senior said quietly.

"I'm the slave of His Excellency Flavius Aulus, sir." David replied, "Gus' enemies are his enemies."

Mr. Caggerano stared at him for a moment before snapping, "Wait here."

He turned and entered the villa.

Neither David or Al were sure how long they waited but it seemed an age. Finally Caggerano senior returned. David gasped with relief as he recognised Gus walking beside him. His hair was damp and he was wearing a new clean tunic that stuck to his chest in places where it was still damp.

"Can you keep him safe?" Caggerano senior asked.

David nodded.

"We've done our duty but he doesn't belong here." Caggerano said, "Take him."

"Thanks for everything, Grandfather." Gus said but the old man was already returning to the house.

"Where are we going?" Guy asked once they were in the car.

"You won't believe it until we get there." Al grinned, "But you'll be safe."

"I won't." Gus said, "I've even got a fucking an Imperial prince after me. You should have left me there."

"We know about Prince Ignatius." David said, "Did your family treat you well?"

"I was an embarrassment." Gus replied, "I lived in the house but they expected me to work in the fields and stay out of the way if they had guests. They'd clam up if they were talking family business and I appeared. Still I suppose you get worse from your high and fucking mighty master."

Gus wondered why Al giggled at his comment but did not ask. Instead David said, "Try and go easy on the language, Gus. You can call Ignatius the Imperial idiot if you like but I'm not sure how fucking prince will go down."

"So what's this Aulus brat like?" Gus asked, "Does he like slumming it like they say?"

"Shut it, Tenyo." Al snapped, "He's put his life on the line looking for you so give him a chance."

"Yeah right." Gus sneered, "How come he's even heard of me?"

"Because I was looking for you." David said, "Then you got all mixed up with plots against the Emperor and corruption in the guards but he'll look after you now."

"He doesn't care about me. He wanted to suck up to the Emperor."

"No he wanted to serve the Emperor. There's a difference." David said, "Either way he was helping me to find you. I wish I'd remembered that incident though."

"Don't beat yourself up." Al said, "It was one incident a year ago and you were plastered that night as well. I wouldn't have remembered if we hadn't been in that posh apartment. You're used to it but I started thinking about knowing rich people and it came to me that Gus did."

"So who's lending you cars?" Gus asked, "You got some rich lonely old woman tucked away somewhere."

"Nothing like that." David replied.

"I'd believe Al's found himself a sugar daddy. I can't believe you'd offer arse to some guy."

"I said it's nothing like that." David snapped irritably, "We've fooled around enough so stop trying to take digs at us."

They lapsed into an uncomfortable silence. Gus always had been aggressive but it had always been a front. Now he just seemed angry and bitter. David could not blame him but it was hardly helpful at the moment.

"Excuse me master but I think someone might be following us." Pablo suddenly said, "I keep seeing a silver coloured car coming round the corner. It's matching our speed and you'd think we'd either lose it or it would catch up."

"Any ideas?" David asked.

We could make a small detour and join the Appian Way, Master. Pablo replied, "Once we're in the Imperial lane, unauthorised tails won't be able to follow."

"Yeah right and we get stopped because we'll be unauthorised as well." Gus muttered.

"Pablo?" David asked.

"We're covered and I can contact dispatch in case we need help."

"Do it." David snapped.

"Are you declaring an emergency?" the dispatcher asked after Pablo had explained the situation. Pablo glanced at David.

"Can we declare that we're a bit concerned but it may be a false alarm?" David asked.

"Same thing." the dispatcher chuckled, "When you join the Appian Way switch on the warning lights and siren. Keep to the speed limits until after the first set of lights then try to speed up to twice the limit. Remember they still drop as you get nearer the city centre."

Al and David kept looking for glimpses of the car following them but Gus just stared at David, puzzled. He still seemed puzzled as they swept into the city, the traffic lights in front always green and the lights behind turning to red immediately after they had passed

"Slow down to the speed limits and watch the lights." the dispatcher said, "They'll guide you to the Emperor's private entrance."

Originally the Appian Way was a military supply road. Some Emperor in the distant past saw propaganda in such roads not only starting in Rome but fanning out from the Imperial palace. With links to airports and docks as well arterial roads spreading out across the Empire, some roads for general use and some for Imperial vehicles, traffic around the palace was a nightmare.

David's car had priority and was fitted with a tracker which the computers controlling the traffic lights were reading. With the go lights marked with left, right or ahead arrows, the route was clearly marked and at some junctions, theirs was the only clear exit. A pursuing car would not stand a chance as the traffic lights returned to normal behind them. It was an exciting ride for them all.

David tried to remain calm but the speed and the sirens affected him. They affected Al as well. He had spent the day trying to accept that he was now resident in the Imperial palace and had met the Emperor. All he could think was that he was in a car sounding a siren and with red flashing lights and he was not in handcuffs being whisked off to the nearest guards barracks.

Gus was just bewildered. Less than an hour ago he had been an unwelcome intruder on his grandfather's farm hiding from ruthless and powerful men. Now he had to accept that his one time friend had the power to protect him. He still did not fully believe it wondering what would happen when the authorities discovered that they were just a group of petty thieves and street kids.

He got more worried as they pulled into a private part of the Imperial palace and pulled up outside an imposing entrance. A young slave was waiting for them.

"No red carpet, Kieran?" David joked, "I'm insulted."

"You'll have to wait until you get your rudest slave award." Kieran laughed, "They'll lay it to the cross."

He turned to Gus, "Welcome sir. Do you prefer Gus Tenyo or Giuseppe Caggerano?"

"Gus will do." he muttered uncertainly.

"Yes sir." Kieran responded brightly, "Welcome to the Imperial palace. Pablo, he wants you at the meeting as well. Someone will collect the car."

Flavius and Jamie were chatting to Brutus and the others as everyone began assembling in the main living room of the apartment. Flavius was pleased to see that not even Senator Stallone was showing his rank. Flavius himself was naked apart from the House of Sparta chain and was sitting with the rest of the boys.

Gus glanced around, relaxing a little. He'd been expecting a provincial governor and the Emperor to be present but for some reason David still seemed to be in charge as he, Kieran and another slave boy told what they knew.

Finally David turned to him.

"OK Gus." he said, "Do you know anything about all this? There's only one thing, remember to call Prince Ignatius, the family idiot. Any idea why?"

Gus shook his head.

"It's on the Emperor's orders. Some folk might be embarrassed talking badly about a member of the Imperial family. This way you're not even saying what family you're talking about."

"I didn't know that it was on the Emperor's orders." the Emperor said, "But it makes sense. I wouldn't anticipate him too often though."

"Sorry, sir." David replied, "I wanted Gus to relax more."

"Yes you are a bit tense, aren't you, Gus?" the Emperor said, "Don't worry about what I just said to David. I'm just reminding him not to get carried away."

Gus managed a grin, "He was always like that, I can't imagine him as a slave."

"Neither can his Master." the Emperor chuckled, "But how about it Gus, have you got anything to contribute?"

Gus was not the confident young man that David remembered. He had sounded angry and bitter in the car but David was seeing some of the old Gus returning.

"I was picked up to serve." Gus began, "The guards took me to this fancy house and I recognised Septimus Balnovi. Some other guy arrived and Balnovi knelt and called him 'Your Imperial Highness'. There were a few others but not many.

Gus paused, reassured by the other's attentive silence and continued, "We were all in a room. Septimus locked the doors. Then they started talking. They started off going on about the whore governor and his pimp Emperor."

David glanced nervously at the Emperor then at Flavius. The Emperor remained calm and relaxed while Flavius looked a little flushed. Gus was getting lost in the story he was telling.

"It was odd because they were all saying how they were ruining the Empire and letting the plebs forget their place. It was the Prince who changed things. He went on about how he realises that the Empire needs to modernise but in a more organised and disciplined way. Then he said something about how everyone's forgotten what the mob's really like and it's time for a demonstration. He also said that with the Emperor so thick with the Aulus brat nothing will happen until the breakdown's so bad that everything starts to suffer."

Gus paused, "I think I'm remembering everything but I dunno if it makes sense."

"Go on." said the Emperor, "I've got the gist of it."

"This Prince guy said he had some legionnaires who would make good guards. I know that Balnovi is a money lender and the Prince was saying that it was a good time to lend money on a long term basis and gradually increase the interest rates. He said something about cutting municipal services but I couldn't follow it all."

"If I said it was all about stirring up the mob, would that sound right.?" the Emperor asked.

"Yeah. That's it. I think there was more." Gus replied.

"OK but we'll come back to it. Mob riots in Rome would be embarrassing but they wouldn't do any real damage."

"No that's what he said." Gus replied, "He said the trick would be to get them yelling for Flavius for emperor."

"Ah." the Emperor exclaimed, "Yes that makes sense."

"I don't get it. Flavius would never do it." Jamie interjected.

"You've got to look at it from the family idiot's point of view." the Emperor said, "Everything he does is about plots and intrigues. And I must admit, if my family's paranoid about anything then it's this sort of popular rebellion."

"That's what this guy said." Gus said then looked puzzled, "Hang on, your family?"

"Don't worry about it." the Emperor said, "It's a big family."

"So it's designed to split the Emperor and Flavius." David said, "I still don't see how that would weaken the Empire."

"Flavius' educational reforms is pandering to the mob to get a firm political base." the Emperor explained, "His friendship with Prince Bjorn and the treaty with Scandinavia are sell outs. The palace reforms are destabilising the Imperial court. I could go on but the theory is, if I start doubting one thing, I start doubting everything. If I lose my nerve and start going back to the old ways then there would be chaos."

"If you started losing your nerve?" Gus queried.

"I don't know how you keep to your incognito roles for weeks on end, Flavius." the Emperor chuckled, "I don't seem to be able to do it for more than half an hour."

He turned to Gus, "We're not trying to catch you out but could you have coped talking to an emperor, a provincial governor and a senator?"

Gus' terrified shake of his head answered the question.

"While our young friend is regaining his composure then there's something I don't understand." Senator Stallone said, "Even if Prince Ignatius could create enough chaos, how would he gain by it?"

"That's something we need to find out." the Emperor replied, "He probably sees himself as a knight, charging in on a white horse to save the Empire. It says something for his abilities that he can't even know that Flavius is in Rome. You two are on good terms and he should be worried that you're comparing notes. He's just blundering on as usual."

The Emperor turned to Pablo, "How certain are you that you were being followed?"

"I'm not at all certain, Master." Pablo replied, "I didn't see it after we diverted for the Appian Way. I'm sorry I caused so much trouble."

"You did right." the Emperor said, "You saw a possible danger, discussed it calmly and sensibly then drove competently. I need a discreet driver when I visit Brian and he wants driving lessons. You'll do."

"Thank you, Master" Pablo gasped, "I won't let you down."

"I also happen to know that young Cassius visits you in the garage. It doesn't matter what sort of hands on experience you're giving him because the important thing is that you're discreet and don't take advantage of him. Kieran can arrange some chauffeuring courses for you and we'll see where it goes."

While Pablo grinned happily, the Emperor turned to David.

"You did well too." he said, "You still don't remember that conversation?"

David shook his head, "I feel bad for getting so drunk. It would saved so much time."

"It happens and you weren't to know." the Emperor said, "Half our enslavements are drink related."

David nodded.

"Afghanistan and cocaine." Gus said suddenly, "The Prince said something about them. He laughed and said something about wanting to see the whore's face when his friends were implicated."

"No wonder they were looking for you." David exclaimed, "How on Earth did you escape?"

"It was a foul up." Gus explained, "Balnovi unlocked a door and let in a bunch of kids. They were only about ten, naked and armed with these long knives. They looked like swords on them and I'll never forget how scared they looked."

He paused and everyone waited, "Anyway one of the other servants saw the knives and panicked. He started yelling that we were going to be killed. It's what he'd heard and it's what was going to happen to us

"You know, that sort of thing. The guard at the door stepped towards him and everyone else was watching him and I was close enough to slip through. The other kid was still yelling and as the other goons came over I asked them where the first aid kit was. They pointed the way and I ran, got to the kitchen and found the garden door. I didn't stop until I got to the Caggerano's place."

"You came back once or twice though." Al said.

"Yeah I came back when I could but they were still looking for me so I didn't stay."

"You were lucky." said the Emperor, "They might have caught you."

"They didn't catch me when they wanted me for nicking cars…" he trailed off looking around uncertainly.

"You're saying the guards were looking for you?" David said, "Not Balnovi's goons? Are you sure it wasn't for anything else."

"No. I hadn't done anything for a while. They lose interest after a few months. There's too much new stuff."

"Very well." the Emperor said, "This is another breach of security but I think it's worth it even if I do cause a few heart attacks in the ISS.

He paused for the laughter to die down, "The family idiot is planning a coup. He's got the support of drugs barons in the East which means all the resources he wants. They don't care who runs the Empire and they'll let us eliminate their Columbian rivals but they want enough disorder to open up their own trade routes into the Empire and Scandinavia.

"The ISS has also picked up that he intends causing civil unrest in Rome. You youngsters should watch the news more. They're already planting stories about Rome's living standards falling behind Flavius' province. The trouble is, it's true and I've had too many other problems to tackle it.

"I've also let Ignatius get away with too much. Arresting family members has always smacked of infighting and paranoia. Now the ISS sees the world from an Imperial point of view. Its agents can infiltrate a senator's meeting more easily than they can visit a tavern and they still don't believe that slaves and freemen are as trustworthy as senators or nobles."

The Emperor grinned, "Flavius has made them think a bit but they're still very conservative. It's where your contributions come in. His legions would resent me for putting him on trial for treason so there'd still be some unrest. I want to go after him for these boy fights, illegal enslavements and encouraging guard corruption. Not even his legions can stomach that lot. If an application was made accompanied by a sufficiently large petition that I revoke his privileges, I reckon that his legionnaires would be among the first to sign. They'd feel that he had besmirched their good name. We could crucify him or sentence him to hard labour."

"Was that enough to put Flavius in so much danger?" David asked.

The Emperor frowned angrily then relaxed, "The stock answer is that he should have been proud to serve his Emperor. My answer is that you'd have to ask Flavius whether he's happy that these low lifes are going to be properly dealt with."

David nodded, "And without him you'd have to make the trial about the rebellion and that would have unsettled everything."

"You're learning about being an Emperor, David." the Emperor smiled, "I'll have to watch you in a few years."

"No thanks." David exclaimed, "I'd end up like one of those old time emperors, you know. surrounded by bodyguards, food tasters and scared to leave the palace."

"Er…" Al started but trailed off, suddenly very nervous.

"Go on." the Emperor said, "You looked after Flavius so you're among friends."

"That's what I don't get." Al said, "You've got the ISS and everything but you still wanted Jerry… I mean Flavius to nose around. Surely they're the experts."

"Yes they are." the Emperor replied, "They're solid, reliable and well trained with years of experience behind them. It comes back to where Flavius started out with his education reforms. At first he saw them as changing the schools but I think that like me, he's come to see it as changing the basic attitudes in the civil service.

"Now the ISS would never trust the word of a slave. Their first reaction would be that he's betraying his master and their first question is what does he expect out of it. The ISS is still analysing you, trying to figure out your angle.

"That attitude is so pervasive, even I was beginning to believe it then Flavius appeared on the scene. I took a chance with boys like Kieran and even you Pablo and I like what I find. That's why I pushed to find Gus but the ISS regarded it as a job to keep me happy not a way to reach the family idiot so I gave Flavius his head."

"Is it still treason to speak badly of members of the Imperial family?" Brutus asked.

"It's always been one of those unworkable pieces of law." the Emperor replied, "It could include mentioning a wart on the end of my nose because it's embarrassing. At the other end of the scale it could exclude ordering a pointless and bloody massacre because it happened. It should be removed from the statute books and you're asking whether it inhibits the ISS."

Brutus nodded.

"Yes it does. Even listening to Gus would provide a conflict for them."

"But not if Flavius told them." Gus said, "He's a nob."

"It's not what you know but who you know." the Emperor smiled.

Gus smiled in response, "So where is this Flavius guy?"

"I'm sorry." the Emperor said, "We forgot that we were trying to ignore names and titles to put you at ease. Flavius is the young slave who's been so willing to serve you drinks. The way he's eyeing your jeans I reckon he may want to serve you in other ways."

Flavius grinned, "Jamie likes my description of Al. I reckon we could have some fun together."

"Later. The court circular is saying that I'm busy with court papers. Those that think that they're in the know believe that I'm spending time with Kieran. Either way time is limited. To sum up, I trust you boys more than the ISS does but for now the investigation's at a high enough level for them to take it seriously.

"Gus, Al, you've been detained in my guards barracks for various reasons before, I'd like to detain you again but I hope the quarters are more comfortable."

Al was confident enough to grin, "At least the jailers will bring me breakfast in bed."

The Emperor laughed out loud before turning to Flavius.

"You've got contacts in the army. Could you use them to find out what's what in the idiot's command. I'm not talking spying on their comrades, I'm just wondering whether he singled out the rotten apples or whether the whole barrel's gone bad."

"I'll see what I can do, sir." Flavius replied.

"I'm sending for a lawyer to take your statements. You may refer to any crimes not yet dealt with as 'unusual undercover activities'. Thank you Flavius, you provided what the ISS couldn't, witnesses.

It had been a long a day for most of them. For Gus and Al it was still highly emotional as they absorbed their new situation. Senator Stallone saw becoming an Imperial senator in terms of promotion from the provincial senate, imagining his role as an extension of his previous activities. Instead, he found himself in a close group around the Emperor preventing a rebellion. He glanced at Archie. The boy was the best thing that had happened to him in a long time.

Mutual acquaintances had already told his wife that he was visiting the more private parts of the palace. These acquaintances could not keep the jealousy out of their voices when they spoke to her, discreetly trying to find out why he enjoyed such favouritism.

"My dear, if I don't tell you then you can't let anything slip." he said one day when he phoned her, "All I can tell you is that thanks to Archie I have more options than before."

He was a little concerned about the comment and mentioned it that evening.

"You've not been approached by Prince Ignatius, have you? You've just been sounded out." Flavius said.

Senator Stallone nodded.

"You'd still be happier if Archie was an obedient slave' kneeling at your feet." Flavius said, "Thank the gods you've met people who understand the proper order."

"In other words, let them think I'm only giving lip service to the new ways." Senator Stallone said then laughed, "Aren't you worried that it's closer to the truth than you think?"

"Not with Archie sitting between your legs and you unable to leave his hair alone." Flavius grinned, "I'm afraid we've corrupted you, Senator."

"I'd like Archie to stay here, tomorrow night." Senator Stallone said suddenly, "I'll go to that damn meeting but I'll not stomach any of their so called entertainments. I'll content myself with convincing them of Archie's bedroom skills."

"It's probably as well not to agree with everything. It can sound too obsequious." Flavius said, "Just be willing to listen to what they offer."

"Why do you want me to stay here, Augustine?" Archie asked.

"Because I think that this apartment may be the safest place in the Empire." Senator Stallone replied, "I'll concentrate more if I'm not worried about you. Gus, Al and Pablo are around your age. It'll do you good to spend some time with them."

"I should be getting back to the garage." Pablo said, "I'm only a driver."

"I think you've been promoted." Flavius laughed, "Take the night off and relax."

Gus suddenly yawned.

"I'm beat." he mumbled sleepily, "Where do I sleep?"

"If you'd like to choose a servant, he'll look after you." David said.

"Choose a servant?" Gus repeated.

"Flavius and Jamie are a couple. It's both or neither. I'm head boy so I have other duties but you you can choose one of the rest."

"I dunno." Gus mumbled.

"How about you and Al sharing. Brutus and Steven can look after you. Let them bathe you then massage you. Believe me you can't imagine how they can relax you."

Gus shrugged and Al seemed happier. He felt out of his depth as well and had just followed Flavius' lead. Now David was making the decisions about the sleeping arrangements and it seemed as if something as simple as getting ready for bed could be an adventure. For once he felt safe and if David was anything to go by it seemed even more likely he had a future to look forward to.

Since Senator Stallone and Archie opted to spend the night in their own apartment, it only left David and Luke with two guests to look after. To varying degrees, they were all friends, the beds were large enough and no one wanted to sleep alone and so the apartment settled down.

With the exception of Flavius and Jamie, the rest were up early the next day. Neither Gus nor Al had bothered putting clothes on and they sat around with the others. David had been right about Steven and Brutus being able to relax them but it was their cheery acceptance of their roles that affected Gus the most.

"We look after our guests." Brutus replied to a question from Gus, "It doesn't matter that it's a slaves job because if I wasn't expected to behave like one I couldn't want to have your cock in my arse."

"Yes but it's a game to you, you don't know what the real world's like." Gus said.

"I own slaves." Brutus replied, "I can work as hard them in the fields, I can do most of their jobs and I've learnt to see them as human beings. The troublemakers know that they can't fool me and the rest can talk to me about their problems. I've also got to know them. Some will never be more than field slaves but I'm sending one or two of the younger ones to school. One I'll sell to an engineering firm who'll train him up and he'll get his freedom. Another could end up as my manager.

"It's not your world, Gus. It's mine. Another time, I might be here formally and you would be expected to kneel and call me, 'My Lord'. Tonight I call you master and it's my duty to please you. May I use these oils to massage you, their vapours will help you to relax."

Now as Brutus served him breakfast Gus felt refreshed and more at peace with the world than ever before.

Kieran and Pablo took their morning swim before heading off for their respective duties.

"So what do you want to do today?" David asked.

"How about a guided tour of the palace." Al laughed, "I've lived in Rome all my life but it's the first time I've been in here."

"If you're interested then I can find someone who knows a bit about the art work."

"You mean we can go where we like?" Gus asked looking amazed.

"You can leave if you want to." David said, "No one will stop you but we won't be able to look after you either."

"I don't need any help." Gus snapped. Even as he spoke he knew it was not true but he was regaining his confidence and instinctively he was trying to establish some street credibility.

"If you say so." David said, "Like I said, it's up to you."

Gus could see that David was unimpressed.

"It's all right for you." Gus almost whined, "You're in with them."

"Three rules and you'll be in with them." David said calmly, "One, don't even think about betraying them. Two follows on. Say what you think and if you're doing a job, don't be half hearted. The third rule might seem a bit contradictory. Don't rock the boat in public. If the Emperor's trying to greet the Chinese ambassador. It's not a good time to say that he's a slimy, two face toad. He is by the way and not even his own Emperor likes him but he's got a powerful power base back home."

Gus grinned, "I get the idea. Do they really like that sort of stuff?"

"The ones that count do." David replied.

"Yeah but they all seem so ordinary." Gus persisted.

"That's the point. They are." David said, "The emperor's got exactly the same genes as you have."

"Isn't that treasonous, David?" Flavius asked as he entered the room.

"Probably." David laughed, "What's the sentence? Boiling in oil or impalement?"

"Something far worse." Flavius replied, "You're taken to a temple where a load of holy men try to teach you the error of your ways."

"You see Gus, nobles can talk nonsense as well." David laughed.

"I still don't get it." Gus said, "Isn't David your slave?"

"When he remembers to be." Flavius replied, "OK So I'm His Excellency Flavius Aulus, complete with a provincial palace and slaves, and I'm hungry so what am I going to do? Wake Jamie and get him to cook it for me, tell David to or get it myself?"

"I suppose you should tell David to get it." Gus said.

"Why? Do you think that I'm so helpless that I can't cook a couple of eggs?"

"No. I didn't mean that. I meant that he's your slave."

"So you've never tasted his cooking." Flavius said.

Gus grinned, "I get what you mean. Sometimes it's better to do it yourself."

"I'm not that bad." David said huffily.

"David, even Ty throws you out of the kitchens." Flavius laughed, "You can impress a dozen senators sitting for dinner if you're organising it and serving it but don't try cooking it. You'll give them food poisoning. Where's Brutus and Steven?"

"Gym with Luke." David said, "There's no one left to clean the kitchen and bathrooms except you."

Flavius grimaced, "You're such fun, David."

"Go and get your breakfast. Shall I wake Jamie?"

Chapter 11

"He's awake but don't disturb him."

"Is there anything wrong?" David asked.

Flavius grinned, "No what's the thing he wanted more than anything?"

"Ah." David grinned.

"There's a little pool on his navel and he's just laying there staring at it." Flavius was still grinning but suddenly frowned, "It was so intense, I'm sure he passed out then he seemed so out of it. I don't remember my first one being like it."

"OK, we'll let him rest." David said, "I don't remember it being like that either but I wasn't in love with anyone and I wasn't worried about seeming like too much of a kid in front of them. Grab something quick to eat and go back to him. It looks like I'm doing the cleaning."

"I can do you omelettes and toast." Gus said, surprising them, "You go back and I'll bring it to you. Do you want coffee or juice?"

"Thanks." Flavius said, "If you start helping make sure you don't get press ganged into doing more than you want to do."

Gus nodded, heading for the kitchen. He had washed up in smart restaurant kitchens and he had worked as a cook in a cheap café. It was all he had by way of skills together with a basic knowledge of health and safety that all kitchens needed in the modern age. His grandparents attitudes had left him morose and resentful, at times, despairing enough to consider suicide.

Suddenly he had discovered that not only was David alive, he was thriving, happy and among friends. Emotionally Gus was lost and vulnerable, open to suggestion and thrust into the same environment. He could not help responding to it.

David waited for the others to return.

"Luke, you've been doing business studies." David began, "I want to set up a meeting with you and Fabian. He's the computer expert and still close to Flavius. Let's see what we can find out about any of us being implicated. I'll see if the ISS will liaise with us but we need to know more about who could be involved."

Luke nodded.

Flavius lay contentedly on his bed with Jamie cuddling into him. More than anything, Jamie represented home and if the younger boy was happy then so was Flavius. Although he was unaware of it he had completed a rite of passage into manhood. From his original adventures with men like Senator Menestro through to his escape from Columbia to his time in the orphanage then on the streets of Rome looking for Gus he had proved himself to be capable and resourceful in his own right. He did not need the trappings of the governorship to thrive, he could do it on his own terms and as a result he was developing a warm, cheerful self-confidence and confidence in those around him.

It was an important day for Jamie and Flavius could leave the others to deal with his affairs. It had always been his style to trust those close to him but he had lost the nagging worry that some adult would start pointing out the the bad mistakes he had made. He was still a horny teenager but more than ever he could be with Jamie, at peace with the world.

"Don't you want to go and find some rough, tough soldier?" Jamie murmured.

"No." Flavius replied, "Not any more. I want to be here."

"You'll get bored with just me." Jamie said though Flavius felt his cock stiffen.

"No I won't." Flavius said, "I've got a bit of a problem though."

"I know. I can feel it growing." Jamie giggled.

"Yes and you're going to sit with it inside you in a minute." Flavius smiled, "Then we'll see how much you can shoot again. That's not the problem. It's Al."

"Go on." Jamie said, quietly.

"He was ready to start a new life for me." Flavius said, "That's when he thought I was just a street kid."

"So he loves you and you're fond of him." Jamie said, "And you think I'm jealous."

"Something like that." Flavius said, "Sorry."

"Idiot." Jamie laughed, "You go off on your trips and I play with Brutus and Steven. You do your stuff and you don't think about me. When we're together you make me feel special but you think I can't cope with some guy older than both of us or will his cock make yours seem small?"

"He's got a nice one." Flavius admitted, "So do you want to send for Johnny? You two can gang up on us."

"I'd like to." Jamie said, "I'd like to show him that I can cum. Can I get to know Al, please. Invite him in here tonight."

Flavius tried to hug Jamie but Jamie's cock was nagging too much. He straddled Flavius taking his cock inside him but just sat there allowing Flavius to work on his own fledgling manhood.

"I've got a better idea." Flavius said, "Slide forward a little. I want to see what you taste like."

Jamie happily obeyed and allowed Flavius' tongue and lips to work their magic. After all his experiences, Flavius was content to lay back feeling the boy he loved wriggle contentedly around him as his tongue slid up Jamie's shaft making it jump and swell to full display. A thought hovered in the back of his mind, he was home. Roman culture said that he should not taint a mouth due to speak in the senate or to his Emperor. Taking Jamie's manhood was not tainting his mouth, it was right and proof that Jamie owned him as much as he owned Jamie.

Being so young Jamie could not hold back and soon took control pumping his seed into Flavius' throat. Flavius pushed him off slightly allowing some strands to hit his tongue so that he could savour the warm saltiness. To Flavius it was more, a wonderful sensation that was Jamie.

As he recovered from his own high, Jamie twisted round to lay on Flavius while taking the older boy's manhood in his mouth. Where Flavius tried to be gentle, Jamie worked Flavius' cock hard trying to suck the cream from his balls. It did not hurt but the feelings were intense. Flavius grabbed the sheets trying to stop himself pulling Jamie off and the sensations coursed through his body stinging every nerve. When the release came, he bucked and bounced feeling his shaft pulsate as it had never done before.

Finally, they collapsed, both spent and both exhausted. Jamie fell asleep with his face just inches from Flavius' cock while Flavius was to content to rest his hands on Jamie's arse cheeks as he too dropped into a deep blissful sleep.

Elsewhere in the palace, it was business as usual. The Emperor was receiving a briefing from the ISS.

"You're not telling me anything I don't already know." the Emperor said irritably handing the ISS chief a file.

"This is a statement from Gus Tenyo. For now it's for your eyes only." the Emperor said, "You may want to talk him yourself but not yet."

"You've found him? How?" the chief almost stuttered then he smiled, "His Excellency Flavius Aulus."

"Just Flavius." the Emperor grinned, "We all know that you consider these boy fights to be beneath the dignity of the ISS but they'll be an embarrassment if the family idiot's name becomes connected to them. The boys might be off the streets but technically it's still unlawful enslavement. They're not properly trained so there's no demonstration of skill and courage. OK there's enough fatalities in proper gladiatorial fights to make them truly dangerous but it's not the object of the exercise. These boy fights are just to see kids scream."

"Yes sir, I agree." the ISS chief said, "Nowadays even slaves and convicted criminals can refuse to take part but our main role is to protect you, sir."

"Ever since the Derulux affair, there's been a backlash against using kids in extreme situations." the emperor explained, "Family involvement could hurt my standing as Emperor."

"That's true sir," the chief replied, "But it's still a criminal investigation for the guards. We'd be treading on their toes if we investigated."

"Kieran, is Flavius' team sitting back and enjoying palace life?" the Emperor asked.

"No sir." Kieran replied, "David's worried about the suggestion that they're implicated in Afghanistan so they're searching the Internet for information."

The Emperor noticed the Chief's frown.

"What's wrong? Is it too much like kids interfering?" he asked.

"Yes sir." the Chief replied, "They'll expose our operations and get in the way."

"Well I'm not going to stop them." the Emperor said, "But would you say that their activities pose enough of a threat to be worth investigating?"

"Yes sir." the chief replied uncertainly.

"So if you appointed someone to liaise with them you'd be keeping an eye on them and they'd get some expert help."

The chief nodded, "Yes sir. It makes sense."

"Don't put your best man on it." the Emperor said, "Choose a rookie. Show him reports of Flavius' undercover operations and say you want a report on how he works."

"Sir?"

"Flavius is just as susceptible to a bit of flattery as the rest of us." the Emperor explained, "He'll be more amenable to a little bit of ISS control if he thinks he's being taken seriously."

The Emperor was aware of Kieran watching him. He had never felt the need to justify himself before but the boy was one of the few who respected him rather than feared him and he did not want to lose that respect. It was something that Flavius took for granted, the Emperor was learning about and even Septimus Balnovi had appreciated.

"There is a young man, Richard White." the ISS chief said, "We took him on after he completed University reading law. He's coming to the end of his probationary period and I'm thinking that we might have to let him go. He's got no patience with the routine and he'd be happier if he could spend all his time in the courtroom. I'd like to assign him to Flavius then separate fields of operations.

"We'll concentrate on the ORA and the top end suspects while Flavius concentrates on Balnovi and these allegations in Afghanistan. White can have clearance for the relevant files and he can keep us updated."

"I didn't think that the ISS would be so obliging." the Emperor said.

"We are taking your reforms seriously, sir." the chief said, "But we need to be careful how we implement them. This seems like an excellent way of exploring new procedures."

After the ISS chief had left, the Emperor looked at Kieran.

"You thought I was trying to play everyone off against each other." he said.

"I did at first, sir." Kieran replied, "But you thought it was the only way of getting the ISS to accept Flavius' investigations."

"You're learning. Did you have fun with Pablo?"

"Yes thank you, sir." Kieran replied, "Mark's worried though. He thinks I could be seen as disloyal."

"Stick to the people I lend you to." the Emperor said, "That way, you're simply doing as you're told."

Kieran nodded happily. The Emperor had talked about his freedom once or twice but Kieran did not want it. True he had little spare time compared to free boys but adults, even nobles listened to him and at times the Emperor felt more like a big brother than a master who could order him killed with a click of his fingers. He was happy and felt wanted. That was enough.

It was late afternoon when Richard White entered Flavius' apartment. The other boys looked at him suspiciously. On the ISS Chief's advice he had consulted with Kieran so despite despite being twenty three years old he was wearing a simple half tunic.

"I'm supposed to report to David." he said, "I gather that he's His Excellency's chief of staff."

"I'm Flavius." Flavius said, "I'd like to know what your instructions are."

"To place myself under your command." Richard said, "I'm to use my security clearance and contacts to supply you with any information you might need. I'm to compile a report on your operating methods and I'm to liaise when operations overlap."

"Are you licensed to use firearms?" Flavius asked.

Richard nodded, "I am."

"Fine." Flavius said, "Your first assignment. Get yourself a slave tunic, and report to Pablo in the garage. He'll give you a quick course in being a footman."

Flavius grinned, "You don't run in front of the car nowadays, you ride beside the driver but I want you two to take Senator Stallone to his meeting."

"And I can make a note of other arrivals."

"No." Flavius replied, "You'll be better off giving Pablo a blow job. He's enough of a slave to be watching out for the Senator's return but you'll look like an ISS agent staking the joint out."

Richard frowned.

"Then why am I needed?"

"Everyone knows that Senator Stallone is staying in the Imperial Palace and has been introduced to the Emperor through me. He could still be considering his options so he could still align himself to Prince Ignatius especially since he used to be close to a governor opposed to the reforms. As I say, that's the public idea.

"Privately he was like most of us and had to go with the flow though he did disagree with his governor on his more extreme policies. He's not entirely comfortable with my way of doing things so Ignatius thinks he has a way in. Senator Stallone is going to a meeting where Ignatius is hoping to encourage him."

Richard nodded.

"It's all going to be low key and polite even if Senator Stallone was to turn them down so hopefully, you won't be needed." Flavius explained, "But you know what they say. The gods don't like complacency. You'll be there to keep them quiet."

"Insurance." Richard said, "You pay for it even if you never use it."

"I felt like being poetic." Flavius laughed, "But you've got the idea."

"So what did you mean that I'll look like an ISS agent. We've been trained."

"I don't know about spies sent abroad but you're trained to observe." Flavius said, "Slaves avoid eye contact and look down because they don't want to be seen. They don't look at faces making sure that they can recognise them again and they don't look around crowds in case someone's about to draw a gun."

"OK but this slave isn't behaving like that." Richard said.

"Pablo does." Flavius said, "That's why he'll be in charge. When you open the door for the senator you'll bow your head and look at the floor. If you forget then Pablo will warn you and use the cane on you. That makes you a badly trained slave. If you don't get punished that makes you an agent."

Richard nodded thoughtfully.

"I read your file." he said, "You've had the same sort of training."

Flavius nodded.

"My enemies think I'm just playing games." he said, "And that I'm a masochist who likes getting beaten. I'm not. Let's just say that I understand what it's like to be a slave under an overseer who's a bit free with the lash. Your attitudes do change."

Richard nodded again.

"It beats filing the monthly reports. I'll get off."

Flavius was impressed. He had suspected that Richard at been foisted on them to stop them interfering with ISS business. Instead he seemed eager to fit in. He turned to another problem.

"Al," he said, "How do you fancy a stroll in the Imperial gardens?"

Al shrugged, not caring either way, heading to for the bedroom to fetch a tunic. He was more cheerful once they were in the fresh air.

"Do you still want to be more than friends?" Flavius asked when they were alone.

"Stupid, isn't it?" Al exclaimed.

"No, I'm flattered." Flavius said, "I took a big risk telling you who I was. Looking back, I can't believe that I was so stupid."

Flavius felt rather than saw Al tense as if he had been slapped.

"You've seen enough spy films to know what I'm talking about." Flavius said, "I broke cover and I shouldn't have done."

"So why did you? Al asked.

"Because I couldn't just use you." Flavius said, "I felt safe with you, it was a relief to get back to that little room of yours and it was just us."

"I fell in love with that kid." Al said, "I still am but you scare me."

"I could say that it's still me but it'd sound so trite. I love Jamie and that won't change. He's a lot younger than me and accepts I need friends my age just as he needs friends his age but he'd cut my balls off if I went with someone his age."

Al nodded, "I understand but I don't see what you're getting at."

"I just want you to understand how things are." Flavius replied.

"I'd still like that stall." Al said, "I'm one of those guys that can't go with a girl unless I'm smashed out of my mind. I was so happy when you shared my bed. All I could think of was a life together."

"I could buy you a couple of slaves. I'm sure that you'd look after them and when they're ready, give them their freedom."

Yes but I couldn't fuck them if I was looking after them."

"Why not?" Flavius asked.

"Because I'd just be using them."

"If they're slaves then it's their duty to serve you." Flavius said, "If they're ten years old and you just stuff your cock up their arse then you'll hurt them and maybe do permanent damage. If you go slow and exercise them properly then they should love it and the attention you give them. If they're thirteen and ex brothel stock then they'll respond to some loving tender care and already know how to service your cock."

"It sounds OK." Al said.

"You've talked to David." Flavius said, "I don't have to remind him of his duty all the time so I can relax with him. If he saw it as a weakness and tried to take advantage of me then he'd end up at the whipping post."

"Yes but I sometimes think you're friends." Al persisted.

"I like to think that we are." Flavius said, "He protects my governorship and I have to maintain it. Looking at it like that puts us on the same side."

"Thanks Flavius." Al said pulling him into a hug, "I do love you and I'm already missing your cock."

"You don't have to." Flavius said, "Jamie's curious about older cocks and wants to know why I like you so do you want to have some fun with us?"

Al smiled but to Flavius' surprise, shook his head.

"I'd like to get out of here as soon as possible." he said, "I could manage a market stall but it's not what I want. I want to live in the country. I don't know about working in the fields but labouring around some ancient ruin or something would be great."

"And does a couple of slaves fit in with your plans?" Flavius asked.

"If I could earn enough to keep them." Al replied.

"Next question, do you know anything about ancient ruins." Flavius asked, "I saw some books in your room."

"I've worked on building sites and I used to get out into the country when I could." Al replied.

While they were talking the Emperor had entered the garden to take a stroll accompanied by Kieran. Flavius had seen them approach and was watching to see if the Emperor wanted to be recognised or would just pass by.

"So what do you make of the palace?" the Emperor asked.

"It should be pulled down and rebuilt." Al said. He was aware of someone approaching but he still expected everyone to fall to their knees if it was the Emperor. He turned as he spoke, looking in horror as he realised what he had said to the Emperor.

"Most people seem to think that it's magnificent and brings honour to the Empire." the Emperor said.

"Yes sir." Al whispered nervously.

"So what do you think is wrong with it?"

"It's a hotchpotch of different styles, sir." Al said, "Look at that building over there. The part on the right is five hundred years old, yet the part on the left only dates back a couple of hundred. You can see a crack where the foundations are settling at different rates. I bet the front needs repairing every few years."

"Interesting, go on." the Emperor said.

Well the parts are the same height and share a modern roof but look at the windows. Older places had higher ceilings so the left has four floors and the right three. How is it all married up inside?"

"It's part of the Foreign Office." the Emperor said, "Shall we go in and find out?"

He strolled off leaving the boys to follow. They found themselves in a long corridor. One or two people looked at them, one seemed puzzled as if not believing who he saw but hurried on.

Finally, a clerk carrying a handful of papers stopped.

"Excuse me but do you have business here?" he asked.

"No." the Emperor replied, "We're just looking around."

"I'm afraid that you've got a bit lost, sir." the clerk said, "This part of the palace is closed off to the public. You'll only find us humble workers here."

"Just call a guard, Jurgens." another voice rapped out, "We don't have time to stand and gossip."

Everyone turned to see who was speaking and found themselves looking at a tubby, pompous looking man in his forties.

"Hurry up, Jurgens." the man said, "We're all on Imperial business here, we don't have time for plebs who think they own the place."

"Actually I do own the place." the Emperor said, "So I think that you have time for me."

The man stared as if seeing them all for the first time and a look of horror crossed his face as he fell to his knees. Jurgens also tried to kneel but the Emperor grabbed his arm.

"Young Flavius will think I'm senile if I need too much reminding of who I am. Besides the simple courtesy that you displayed earlier is sufficient. Perhaps that gentleman could look after those papers while you show us around. Al here is explaining why he thinks the palace should be pulled down. What do you think?"

Jurgens understood the reforms taking place, regretting that they had not reached his department yet. He knew that he had to speak honestly and follow the Emperor's informal lead but he was finding it less easy to put it into practice.

"It would be nice to work in a modern building with all the facilities but…" Jurgens said.

"Please don't add, 'But it's an honour to serve in the palace'." the Emperor smiled, "You know that I'm trying to modernise the various departments. I hadn't thought about the buildings themselves, but it makes sense. Are you joining us Flavius?"

"I'm still concerned that my friends are going to be implicated in the plot, sir." Flavius replied, "Since I'm here, I'm wondering if I could make some enquiries."

"Jurgens." the Emperor said, "Is there anyone as relaxed as you who could talk to His Excellency about Afghanistan?"

"You could try Jan Horkje, sir." Jurgens replied, "He's in Room 769. You go along this corridor and take the second flight of stairs to the third floor."

Flavius found the room and entered, asking for Jan.

"That's me, what can I do for you?" Jan asked.

"Jurgens said that you might have some information on Afghanistan." Flavius said.

"What's it for? A school project? You're not really supposed to be in here you know."

"It's not a school project. I'm interested in investments over there particularly those that may be a bit shady and have connections with drugs."

"OK, I think I recognise you but I need some I.D." Jan said.

As Flavius showed him his card, Jan continued, "I'm sorry that I didn't greet you properly, Your Excellency. We don't have many noble visitors."

"Just Flavius in this half tunic."

"And you want more than just the official reports." Jan said, "At this level we're not supposed to question what's fact and what's unsubstantiated."

"Something like that." Flavius said, "I just need to understand the situation. I'll be grateful if you speak freely. It'll stay between us and it'll be just your thoughts, nothing official."

Jan looked around the room, there were four occupied desks plus the one that Jan had been using.

"How freely is freely, sir?" Jan asked.

"I told you to call me Flavius." he said, "Do you need to be freer than that?"

Jan smiled.

"No. I suppose not." he replied, "Sometimes it's difficult to remember what we should know, what we pick up in the course of our work, what we overhear and what what we're gossiping about. It all stays in the Foreign Office but we do tend to know more than we should and some might be concerned that it could get them into trouble, sir."

"I'm here with the full knowledge and consent of the Emperor." Flavius said, "Your name is already known to him. I don't need anyone else's name and besides, I find my palace runs better with a little gossip and information sharing."

"So how can I help, sir?" Jan asked.

"I keep telling you, call me Flavius." he chuckled, "Basically I want the dirt on Prince Ignatius. His code name is Family Idiot by the way. I'm also interested in business and any other links with Afghanistan.

"Have a seat and I'll tell you what I know." Jan said, "Basically Afghanistan is part of the ORA or at least, its central government is. In practice the government has very little influence outside of Kabul, the capital. The country is actually run by petty little warlords who are more interested in settling some blood feud with a neighbouring war lord than developing the country. If you're looking for dirt then you look at these war lords. They'll form alliances to take out anyone getting too aggressive then turn on their former allies. They always need arms and modern luxuries to bribe their supporters so they trade in drugs and illegal slaves. We're talking about under age kids. I say illegal but in some ORA countries there's no minimum age for enslavement or restrictions on usage.

Jan paused, "The whole area is poor with little protection so taking kids is easy, even from neighbouring countries. We do have evidence that your er… target is dealing with one of the more powerful war lords but the ISS probably knows about it as well."

"You're saying much the same as them." Flavius said, "Go on though. It's useful having different perspectives of the situation."

"Afghanistan exports fruits, vegetables and nuts. I expect you've got some Afghan carpets in your palace. The country would really prosper if it could exploit it's energy and mineral resources. However the warlords can control farming and cottage industries but they wouldn't be able to control mining or oil drilling. They'd unite long enough to make such operations unworkable then go back to fighting each other."

Speaking more comfortably Jan continued, "Now if your target set up a company importing pomegranates into the Empire the chances are that it's importing up to ten times Afghanistan's total output. Guess how the shortfall's made up. Cash payments leave the Empire but somewhere they leave the bank and becomes arms.

"To cover these deals dummy companies are set up under the names of innocent citizens who know nothing about it. I have been following your career and I think you should know I've come across a couple of names, Crevelio and Dessolini. Don't worry they probably know nothing about it."

"Unless they're made public." Flavius said, "There'd be a lot of dirt clinging. There'd be the suggestion that I'd taken on Columbia to boost my own interests in Afghanistan."

"And it would rub off on the Emperor as well." Jan added.

"OK but if my friends know about these companies could they do anything about it?" Flavius asked.

"As directors could they demand an investigation or anything?" Jan said, "In theory yes, but in which country? They're not registered in the Empire."

"And they choose countries that don't care." added.

"This should get me fired on the spot but you could try some of your dirty tricks." Jan said.

"I have an essay to write for creative writing class." Flavius said, "How about helping me with a plot."

"Put like that your friends could visit the banks and withdraw all the funds. Put it all into a charitable trust for helping the victims of the trade."

"It's not the sort of idea that you could put into a report for the Emperor is it?" Flavius chuckled.

"No it's not. It's more of an ISS operation but unless it's a member of the Imperial family then identity theft isn't terribly high in their priorities."

"You say you're following my career? I'm flattered." Flavius said, "Would you prepare a detailed report complete with details of your operation and send it to the Emperor's office with a copy to me. Head it as requested by His Excellency Flavius Aulus if you like but don't hold back."

"I can but my supervisor will have a heart attack. Its a job way above my grading." Jan said.

"Tell him to phone the Emperor's office." Flavius instructed.

After Flavius had gone, Jan muttered, "When I see Horst Jurgens again, I'll kill him."

"Why?" one of his colleagues asked, "He's either got you crucified or promoted."

"That's cheers me up." Jan exclaimed.

"The way things are, at least you'll have tea with the Emperor before they take you to the cross."

Jan picked up a folder and threw it at the speaker as they enjoyed a moments laughter together. A few days later he was far more nervous as he sat in the Emperor's private office with an agent of the ISS also present.

"You say that this sort of identity theft is common?" the Emperor asked.

"Yes sir." Jan said, "We know our citizens are innocent but some have been arrested when they've visited the wrong country and it's difficult to help them."

"So you're suggesting that we send two nobles to get themselves arrested?" the Emperor asked.

"Not in Kartli." Jan said, "They're part of the ORA but very progressive. King Orga seems to have a special relationship with them even if they are a republic. There's a lot of talk there about them abolishing slavery as well which should please His Excellency, Flavius Aulus."

"He doesn't want to abolish slavery." the Emperor said, "He wants to make it more humane. You'll understand more if you meet any of his slaves. Getting back to the point, if Kartli is so progressive then why is it used for money laundering?"

"It makes a profit and in return does not ask questions." Jan replied, "If the Dessolinis and the Crevelios have the right documentation and the right fees then no one will ask them questions either."

"And you're suggesting sending the sons instead of the fathers because…?"

"Because they can leave from Rome with powers of attorney and not be noticed. "

"Chief Darange?" the Emperor asked.

"I agree with the Foreign Offices assessment of Kartli, sir." the chief replied, "Prince Ignatius would probably get his own reports if the fathers disappeared. A tutor taking two students to Mtskheta would not arouse much attention."

"I suppose Flavius will go as their slave." the Emperor said.

"I wouldn't recommend it, sir." Chief Darange exclaimed, "He's getting too well known."

"Good enough, I'll tell him. Jan, you're over qualified for your grading aren't you?"

"The Foreign Office doesn't employ anyone without a masters in politics or economics, sir." Jan replied, "It's a case of waiting for promotion."

"I like this report. It's not sanitised for Imperial consumption. I'd like all reports to come through you and I'd like you to include your own observations. We'll sort you out an office and a staff."

The Emperor paused and chuckled, "It won't only be an honour to serve me. I'll see that your salary is increased proportionately. I could do with something tomorrow afternoon. Don't worry when it's urgent, I can cope with notes, typing errors and a lack of detail but I need an overall plan that you're confident with. It's finished reports that are simply meant to impress me that I have trouble with. Kieran will phone your office manager and see that you have everything you need."

Jan gulped and nodded. It was most disrespectful not to reply properly but the Emperor did not seem to mind. As he settled into his desk space his manager approached him.

"We've had instructions that you're reporting directly to His Imperial Highness." he said, "It's going to be very difficult editing your work before it's presented."

Jan was beyond nervousness, "It's going to be impossible. He needs my first report when I see him tomorrow afternoon."

"You'll see His Imperial Highness personally?" the manager gasped, "What on Earth are you working on."

"I'm afraid it's Top Secret." Jan replied, "And I should get on. Despite what he said, I'd like time to type it up without too many errors."

The manager stared at him before answering, "Of course. Let me know if you need anything."

"Could I have a slave in attendance, please? A boy will do but I'm going to need an awful lot of coffee before I'm done."

Slavery can be defined by lack of choice and a slave's fate is pure chance. The boy, Sam had been enslaved for stealing. Until then, his mother had ensured that he received a good education. After sentencing, if he had been behind another boy instead of in front it would have been him who would have ended up in a brothel. As his youthful charms diminished so his trade would go down market until he was sold to some sweatshop then when he was old enough sold to work the fields or dig roads.

Instead his education resulted in him in being the final selection for a batch going to the Imperial palace. He happened to be available when Jan requested a slave and now he was attached to a master with a once in a lifetime opportunity. Neither was consciously thinking that way. Sam's slave instincts said that Jan was a kindly man and would be a good master while Jan discovered that the boy could write notes that came to mind while he concentrated on the body of the report.

It was only a small incident in the life of the palace but two people's lives had changed for ever.

The following day Sam found himself sitting in a crowded room being waited upon by a group of slaves, naked except for a gold chain around their necks. It slowly dawned upon him that he was sitting next to the Emperor while a senator sat across the room.

Like a good slave he tried to sink into the background but he knew that he was not going to succeed. His new Master looked just as uncomfortable as David spoke.

"Welcome to the House of Sparta." he said, "It's our custom that all guests are treated equally though some are treated more carefully."

As he spoke, he looked towards the Emperor who smiled, inclining his head in agreement as David continued, "Please relax and allow us to serve you all."

Chapter 12

"I'm sorry but I couldn't stomach them." Stallone said, "During dinner I had to listen to Prince Ignatius spouting on about how the Empire was collapsing about our ears. Then we got down to business as he called it. He went on about the fabric of the Empire was so rotten that it just needed a nudge to topple it. He also said that the masses needed drugs to keep them quiet and compliant. I didn't disagree with him and he kept saying that I'm a man that understands the realities of the situation.

The senator was an excellent speaker and Flavius had no trouble imagining the scene as he was invited into Septimus' private rooms. A couple of nervous looking slaves stood ready to serve them.

"You can get rid of those slaves for a start." Senator Stallone exclaimed, "I'm sure we can serve ourselves from that excellent bar."

"We don't need to demean ourselves." Prince Ignatius said, "And you need not worry about their loyalty."

"I assume that you've had this room scanned for bugs but have you scanned them?" the senator asked.

"No." Septimus replied, "They were taken off the streets at random."

"As you know, I've spent time with Flavius Aulus." Senator Stallone said, "Throw them back out into the street then seal the doors."

Prince Ignatius stared thoughtfully at the senator then nodded. Senator Stallone managed to hide his relief. He remembered the story of servants being killed and had not wanted those two boys to suffer the same fate.

"I understand that you know the whore and his pimp." Prince Ignatius said.

"The Emperor you mean." Senator Stallone said, "He calls you the family idiot. I seemed to be faced with deciding which insult is justified."

"And do you have any thoughts on the matter?"

"Some, I'm loyal to the Empire. It needs strong leadership but I agree it needs men of knowledge as well as born leaders."

"I agree with those sentiments." Prince Ignatius replied, "And how do you find the present leadership?"

"I've spoken to the Emperor personally." Senator Stallone said, "I wasn't even expected to kneel. It's not like the old times."

"No. At the moment the masses are enjoying the benefits of their weakness but it's just a sham. As the Empire weakens so they will get poorer just as we will. It's inevitable so are you willing to hasten the process while we remain strong enough to provide the leadership the Empire demands?"

"In principle, yes." Senator Stallone replied, "Strong leaders planning the future are essential."

"Good." Prince Ignatius smiled, "If we are to create that future then we must deal with the present. We must separate the whore from his pimp. Already the mob in Rome are demanding that the Aulus brat should replace the Emperor. Our friend Septimus here is ensuring that public works are being stalled. Jobs are going and more are turning to him for loans. As more of their money goes in interest repayments so the cry will go up for Flavius to come to Rome to implement his reforms.

His victory in Columbia is nearly complete. Flavius will be the hero of the hour. Imagine the disappointment when it turns out that his friends are profiting by the increased demand from Afghanistan. He's created a lot of sickly sentiment for young slaves. Personally I think the army should declare open season on anyone living on the streets. Let's get rid of these no-hopers. What do you think will happen when it turns out that Flavius has got his own stable?"

"Has he?" Senator Stallone asked.

Prince Ignatius chuckled.

"Not yet." he replied, "I've got pictures of Flavius taking part in a fight, members of the audience who will identify him and witnesses willing to testify that he was willing to kill quickly or slowly to please the audience. It's proving difficult to extricate them from the charges they face but we know that he spent time in a tavern near here. He dealt with a man, Serge Vaslov, and all we have to do is link the brat to Vaslov's stable. There's plenty to testify that Flavius likes nothing more than sticking someone with a knife."

"You seem to have everything in hand." Senator Stallone said, "Why do you need me?"

"Your point about the slaves was a good one." Prince Ignatius said, "We'll need leaders who can think in the new order. The brat will be at the height of his popularity when the Empire celebrates the victory in Columbia. That's when the mob should call for him to become Emperor. When the rift between the whore and his pimp is deep enough then we'll denounce his friends and by association, him.

"Once his reputation is stained, we'll hit them with his involvement in the minor games. With two of the pillars of his popularity in ruins he'll lose all credibility and the mob will turn to a new leader."

Prince Ignatius paused, "You're close to the brat and the pimp. Find a way of proving his association with the minor games."

"By minor games you mean boy fights." Senator Stallone said.

"I think our business is done." Prince Ignatius said, "You have a chance to prove your worth and time to do it. In the new order minor games will be quite acceptable as a way of limiting the vagrant population. It's time for some entertainment."

On Septimus' orders the door to the room was opened and a line of thin, scared looking boys filed in. Although only between ten and twelve years old, they were naked and each carried a long knife. Senator Stallone agreed with Gus that, carried by the boys they looked like swords.

"No." Senator Stallone snapped angrily, "Framing the whore is one thing and your private predilections are your affair but I'll have no part in them. Boys' drop those knives and follow me."

He marched confidently out of the room and headed for his car. Pablo saw him coming but as Richard leapt out to open the door for him, he stopped and stared at the column of boys following him.

Amidst a great deal of giggling as fear gave way to excitement they all managed to cram in. One sat on Richard's lap one on each of Senator Stallone's knees three on the seat beside him and another three on their laps while the last one sat, squashed up on the floor.

"So that's where they came from." the Emperor exclaimed as Senator Stallone finished his tale, "I'd heard about them staying and some juicy gossip about your tastes in slaves. You must have felt like the Pied Piper as you left."

"I wasn't thinking about it." Senator Stallone replied, "I was waiting for them to stop me. If their goons had opened fire it would have been a massacre."

"So what are you going to do with them?" the Emperor asked.

"Archie's trying to get their details but they're all confused and frightened." Senator Stallone said, "I'll try to keep those that don't have homes. If the offer of a governorship still stands then I'll convince my wife that looking after the masses is conditional on the offer. That's providing manipulating an Imperial invitation is acceptable."

"I think we can stretch a point." the Emperor chuckled, "Have a word with Kieran. He'll arrange some help for you."

"They're my age so can I help?" Jamie asked.

"By all means." Senator Stallone said, "Archie will be grateful."

"Is your agent still in the Golden Eagle, sir?" Flavius asked.

The Emperor nodded, "Why?"

"Unless Septimus has got everyone looking for me I'd like to go after Serge." Flavius said, "I'm wondering if he'd lose too much face by admitting that one of his boys has got away."

"You've done your share." David said, "Leave it to the guards and the ISS."

"They need evidence." Flavius said, "I can get it."

"Not yet." the Emperor said, "How are your enquiries into the idiot's legions doing, Flavius?"

"Yes sir." Flavius replied, "The rumour is that Prince Ignatius has formed a special unit and he's put the dregs into that. The legions have gone along with the idea that they're in some sort of last chance brigade and some other legions have sent some their bad ones there.

Flavius paused, "What would happen if you ordered a cohort of Prince Ignatius' legions to arrest Septimus Balnovi and to discover who his cronies are?"

"No! I'll have half a dozen cohorts attached to the Praetorian Guard." the Emperor said, "They can go after the guard corruption as well. Jan, how's your plan coming. Let's shut their bank accounts down then send in the troops before they know what's happening."

"Flavius told me to coordinate with Luke, sir." Jan replied, "We can go after a dozen accounts traceable back to the er, main target. There seems to be a core account in his name with subsidiary ones holding the bulk of the money. It's these subsidiaries that are in Roman citizen's names. They all have internet accounts and of course the pass codes are only known to those in the know."

"We can't go hacking into foreign banks." Luke said, "Something's occurred to me though. Do Kartlian banks require proof of identity. If they do then they either forge the lot or use copies of Imperial documents which means that the signatures have to be a close forgery."

"Richard," The Emperor said, "Tell the ISS to look into it. Have them look into the other account holders as well. If they're innocent then I'll invite them into the Palace for a cosy chat. That'll get them onside."

The boys chuckled as the Emperor concluded, "You boys will have to approach them first. If an adult tries then they can still think that a summons to the palace is a one way journey."

"I know how they feel." Gus muttered to more laughter.

"If my father was still alive it might well be." the Emperor said, "It was the old way. If Ignatius can be brought down by being hated, and humiliated by a bunch of youngsters like you then we can avoid fatalities. My instinct still says that a few show trials and executions would solve everything and the ISS would quietly arrest everyone else and after interrogating them, make them disappear. What trials we will have, will be for genuine accusations of drug dealing, corruption and illegal slave trading, and the family idiot will be associated with all of them."

When the meeting finished, Jan was more relieved than anything. He had not contributed much and the plans that the Emperor had asked for had been sketchy and incomplete. Even so the Emperor had spoken to him cordially and nothing had been said about his shortcomings. What Jan did not know was that the Emperor had been impressed when Jan had admitted to not knowing some details and had suggested that the ISS was better able to deal with the bank accounts and than his own department.

After the Emperor had left, Flavius took Gus to one side.

"We will look after you." he said, "Just say if you've got any problems."

"So what happens to me when you don't need me any more?" Gus asked.

"It depends on what you want to do." Flavius replied.

"I'm kind of getting used to living in a palace." Gus said, "I'm not looking forward to dossing down on a friends floor again."

"I'm pretty sure that David would let you doss down his floor." Flavius smiled in return.

Gus took a deep breath, plucking up his courage, "I'd like to be bonded to you, enslaved if I have to be. I'd probably end up as just a field worker but at least I wouldn't spend the day trying not to get crucified."

"Talk to David." Flavius said, "It was him who thought that you were worth finding. Here's a thought. Offer to take over the kitchen while you're here. None of the rest of us can cook so we'd all be grateful. David is in charge here and helps run my provincial palace. Treat it as an exercise in working for him. You're a freeman so we'll have to think about wages and you'd be entitled to an apartment but once that you've found your feet you'll be able to choose what you really want to do."

"Thanks." Gus said, "There's something I'd like to do and that's invite Grandfather here for dinner. I'd love to see his face."

"The House of Sparta likes to tackles stroppy relatives." Flavius laughed, "It's how I met Fabian. The only problem is that you'd have to invite the Emperor. After all, it's his palace."

"OK that's protocol." Gus said, "He wouldn't come, would he?"

"Who knows?" Flavius replied, "He likes what he calls 'inconsequential politics'. He might find it a challenge to charm your grandfather."

"Oh god." Gus gasped, "I won't bother then."

"Why not?" Flavius asked, "We could invite your family, Senator Stallone and a few other adults. The House of Sparta can serve and make it an adult dinner party. Jamie's friend, Johnny arrived this morning. If they're willing to serve as waiters then their friend Gio might join in. Then we can invite his dad, he's the commander of the Praetorian Guard."

"Yeah but you've got all this rebellion stuff to deal with. You won't have time." Gus said.

"We're waiting on the ISS. I reckon that we've got a week to kill. It's risky leaving the palace or being seen too much so we may as well do something."

A little later Gus was talking to David.

"If Flavius is willing then go for it." David said, "He'll regard it as a training exercise but be warned. He'll expect you to accept training as well to polish up your etiquette."

"That's a bit snobby for me." Gus muttered.

"No, Flavius will work hard for you. Don't spoil it by not knowing what to do. It's small things. As a guest, your grandfather should approach you and bow. As a guest the Emperor would still approach you but you bow first. I bet your grandfather will be watching you and checking to see if you're slobbing about like the no-hoper he expects you to be or whether you really do fit in with the palace."

"OK, but I don't get it." Gus said, "I am a no-hoper why would anyone take so much trouble over me?"

"Don't tell anyone but I've been studying psychology." David said, "I get confused dealing with all these people and I thought it would help if I understood them more. Flavius was fourteen when he became governor. Instead of growing up and going his own way he was tied in even closer to his family. Some kids would resent it and play up. Flavius could have ended up a drunken playboy, good for nothing. He could have gone the other way and assumed he was there by divine right and no one else mattered.

Gus was interested so David continued, "The House of Sparta was set up to give him an outlet but it worked in ways no one expected. He's a damn good pickpocket, he can pick most locks in seconds and he could slit your throat in a knife fight without even trying. I think it's because all those skills are as far away from a Roman lord as he can get and it's his form of rebellion because everyone disapproves of them. He's also a top class whore. That's a terrible thing to say about a provincial governor but not about a rebellious boy."

Gus chuckled, "There's nothing wrong with using your assets."

"That's right." David agreed, He's more into loving Jamie than finding rough trade now, and it's a rebellion in another way. He gets hard enough when a girl so much as looks at him but he won't do anything with them because he has a duty to get married and produce an heir. Any girlfriend and there'd be so much speculation about whether they're going to wed, especially from his family. I reckon he'll marry late, say in his twenties."

"OK so it's all about rebellion and doing things his way." Gus said, "It still doesn't explain why he takes an interest in me."

"He takes an interest in everyone." David replied, "His father taught him to judge people. That's useful whatever he does so he sees something in you. And getting back to his rebelliousness how many people would be upset by him using the Imperial palace to get at your grandfather."

"I don't want to get at him." Gus said, "I just wanted him to know that I'm OK. I was just joking when I mentioned it to Flavius. I wish that I'd kept quiet."

"Go along with it, Gus." David said, "We won't embarrass or humiliate your family. If they get all jealous because of your new friends then they'll do it to themselves. If they're pleased for you and start seeing something in you then you might have another option."

"Bloody hell." Gus said, "It sounds like a political game."

"And rebelliousness or not, Flavius loves playing them." David said.

"OK If you're all serious, what happens next?"

"Let me have a word with Flavius." David said, "We'll see what he has in mind and take it from there."

For Gus, the dinner party became a military operation. Much to David's chagrin it was decided that he would be one of the guests along with Al. Flavius would act as majordomo so that before the night, he and Brutus could turn their attention to Gus.

Luke was responsible for giving out the invitations. It seemed to fit his role as unofficial spokesman for Flavius and his interest in the media. There was certainly something theatrical with the way he drove out to the Caggerano farm.

"I am from the Imperial palace." he announced formally, "May I speak with the head of the family, please."

Luke bowed when Gus' grandfather arrived to see him.

"I am to give you this, sir." he said, "I am also to wait while you verify its authenticity."

Caggerano senior opened the invitation and read it with increasing incredulity before looking at the car bearing Imperial palace number plates.

"This is a hoax concocted by his friends." Caggerano senior snapped, "I am not fooled."

"It is an offence to falsely claim Imperial connections, sir." Luke said, "Please phone the local guards barracks and explain what is happening. They have been warned and will ask for a verification code. It is Foxtrot, Alpha, seven, nine."

Mr. Caggerano glared at Luke who calmly waited on the elderly man who as abruptly as ever turned without a word and entered the house. When he came back out, he seemed far less certain.

"The boy is a petty criminal heading for crucifixion. How has he entered the Imperial Palace?"

"I need your promise that you do not tell anyone." Luke said.

"Only the gods will hear your reply from me." Caggerano responded.

"He stumbled on a plot against the Emperor." Luke replied, "He hid here from the plotters and is now helping to destroy them. In exchange, he's being given a chance to develop his full potential."

"I find it difficult to believe."

"He was one of three friends." Luke explained, "The other two collected him from here. I think they saw the potential in each other when no one else did."

"Forgive me." Caggerano said suddenly, "I have been inhospitable. May I invite you in for refreshments. Your driver can go round to the kitchen if he wishes."

"Thank you but I should get back. May I have your reply?"

"One question. While Giuseppe was here he appeared to mistrust the guards. We're a law abiding community and should not have to fear them."

"I know nothing about the guards around here but they could have passed information onto barracks under investigation."

"I appear to have misjudged Giuseppe." Mr Caggerano said, "I will accept if only to apologise."

"Then a car will collect you." Luke replied, "My driver for today is trusted by the Emperor. If you have no objections to a slave speaking with you, he'll ring nearer the time to confirm the arrangements."

"Thank you, young man." Caggerano senior replied, "May the gods bring you as much pleasure as you have brought me."

Back at the palace Luke described his visit.

"They're not exactly a religious sect." Gus said, "But when they mention the gods they put their souls on the line. Even if he was drinking buddies with Prince Ignatius he wouldn't say anything. The only thing stronger than that blessing would be a message from Olympus."

"So they're a pretty serious people." Flavius said, "And very formal. What about diet, drink and so on?"

"It depends on who you dedicate the evening to." Gus replied, "How about Apollo. That allows music and poetry. Since we want to get to know each other that takes in knowledge and light. It's a formal dinner but so as long as it's healthy then we'll take in medicine. Just don't mention plague."

"You know a lot about it." Flavius said.

"I did try to fit in but I wasn't deemed virtuous enough." Gus said, "They'll accept any god, Roman, Christian, Buddhist. It's respect for a higher order they expect and it's not for mere humans to decide which one is best."

"Weird." Brutus exclaimed, "We usually drink watered wine but maybe the adults should stick to it as well."

"That would work." Gus replied then paused, "I'm beginning to see. An evening like this takes a lot of planning, doesn't it?"

David nodded, "This time it's an exercise in diplomacy. We need to research their ideas more closely and make sure that they're completely at home. Flavius, it's something you you usually delegate so how about you doing it? You can brief us tomorrow evening."

Flavius nodded, "OK, I can start with Gus. Actually I think I've heard of them. Doesn't Gus have to offer a little prayer of dedication when everyone's assembled?"

Gus looked horror struck.

"I can't do that." he gasped.

"Let's do our research." Flavius laughed, "I'm sure we can find something suitable when you're all seated."

Although Flavius and his friends had proved themselves to the Emperor many times over he was still concerned that so much of the Empire's welfare depended on such a young and inexperienced team. As he heard about the House of Sparta's preparations so he saw it as an opportunity to observe them. He did not expect anything to go wrong, it was more a chance to reassure himself so he accepted the invitation. He smiled to himself, knowing that he was creating a diplomatic nightmare.

"We need a triangular table." Flavius said, "Gus sits at one corner as the gods' representative, the Emperor could sit at another corner and that leaves the third corner for Gus' grandfather."

"Would that work?" David asked.

"I doubt it." Flavius replied, "But who sits at the table head and who sits at the bottom?"

"Granddad prefers traditional dining couches." Gus said, "Could you arrange them in a horseshoe shape with a statue at the open end?"

That would work. The Emperor and your grandfather can be seated opposite and everyone else can choose between the god and the Emperor," Flavius said, "But we'll need more servants, one to a couch."

"What about the boys Senator Stallone rescued." Jamie asked, "He's issuing 'Found Runaway' notices on all of them and keeping them until they expire. He reckons anyone claiming them could have questions to answer so they won't bother. That way they'll all be free unless any of them are genuine runaways."

"Jamie can ask them and Senator Stallone." David said, "They'll be too scared of anyone else and I'd rather have volunteers that want to do it. Flavius, it'll be your job to train them. Luke, Brutus, Steven, kitchen duties. We'll borrow a cook from the palace kitchens but I think something simple. How about stew and dumplings as a modern puls?"

"Granddad would approve especially if it was mainly vegetables." Gus said, "Sorry. I shouldn't be telling you what to do."

"It's your show." Flavius smiled, "It's not a secret that we're here but it's risky leaving this part of the palace alone. We may as well do something and we may as well get it right."

"Why is it taking so long?" Jamie asked.

"The ISS is very conservative and do things the old way." Flavius replied, "That means double checking and triple checking everything then getting it written up and edited. The Emperor complains if there are mistakes in a finished report but he does accept preliminary ones that have to be hurried. The ISS hasn't got used to it yet."

Jamie nodded.

"There's one last thing." Flavius said, "I'm freeing David. He'll be bonded to me until I'm twenty one and then we'll see."

Flavius could see that David was about to protest and continued, "You're taking on more and more. We joke about you being the rudest slave in the Empire and there's a lot of truth in it. I'd like you to have a bit more status to back you up."

"Thank you Flavius." David replied, "I really am happy as things are."

"I haven't freed you yet so it doesn't matter whether you're happy or not." Flavius grinned, "Craig is happy running the palace providing Ty's near by. You're running this apartment and leaving me to do my own thing. It makes you some sort of travelling chief of staff. I'd like to formalise that and you need extra status to deal with strangers who don't know us."

David nodded, "Please don't going on about me finding other opportunities. I'd rather stay your slave but I agree about my status."

"Fair enough." Flavius said, "But you're to stop being a servant with your friends and you will be a guest at this party. If I can't run this apartment for a couple of days there's not much hope for the province is there?"

David knelt in front of Flavius, "Master I am at your service. I will obey."

He stood up and sat down in a chair next to Al glaring at Flavius as if to challenge him. Flavius smiled and stood up, "May I offer you refreshments, Master." he asked.

The biggest mistake at such a gathering was to keep the Emperor waiting or leave him standing unsure what was expected of him. Flavius ensured that timetables and menus were sent to his office and everything was arranged.

Only the Emperor took precedence over Mr. Caggerano who was guest of honour. Gus stood near the door as Flavius announced the guests who greeted Gus. He remembered to bow first when the Emperor arrived. As the guests assembled in the area surrounded by the dining couches, he took a deep breath and stood under the statue of Apollo.

"Honoured guests, tonight may we remember Apollo. By good food may we remain fit and healthy, may music give us pleasure and may wisdom help us know each other. Please be seated."

Flavius noticed Caggerano Senior nod in approval looking curiously at his grandson then at the Emperor.

"You're unusually quiet, David." the Emperor said, "Congratulations on your freedom. You never did make a good slave."

"Thank you, sir." David replied, "I don't think it's sunk in yet."

"You were sentenced by a Rome magistrate so I had to sign your release as it was less than five years. You've earned it and it was a pleasure to do so."

He turned to Caggerano Snr, "Some call Flavius Aulus the whore governor. It may be true but he also happens to be one of my best governors and a staunch defender of the Empire. One of his talents is spotting other worthwhile young men. He must see something in your grandson because he's allowed this gathering in his apartment."

"Yes sir." Mr. Caggerano replied, hesitating to ensure that he had spoken correctly, "I only saw the criminal in him. It seems I was wrong."

"Gus helped arrange tonight." Al said, "He wanted you to feel at home."

"He has succeeded."

"I've heard of your cult." the Emperor said, "But I don't understand your beliefs."

"We don't see ourselves as a cult." Mr. Caggerano replied, "We believe in an order in the universe and a creator who we must respect. We also believe that it is vanity to believe that we are the only level of existence or that there are none more powerful. Giuseppe chose Apollo for this evening and it was a good choice. On another occasion it may be a being from Egyptian or even pagan origin. It doesn't matter, it's recognising that there is order that counts.

"Would I be right in thinking that criminal activity offends that order?" the Emperor asked.

"Not necessarily." Mr. Caggerano replied, "It's bringing disorder and chaos that we dislike. We also dislike denying the truth. May that serving boy approach me."

He pointed at Jamie who obeyed after glancing at Flavius.

"Remove your tunic."

Jamie blushed but he obeyed.

"Have you tied your penis to your belly to hide your erections?"

Jamie blushed even deeper barely able to nod.

"Why?"

"I get hard and it pushes the tunic out."

"And that embarrasses you or do think that a mere slave should not make a show of himself."

"A bit of each, sir." Jamie replied.

"Did your master order you to tie it?"

"No sir."

"You have a body to be proud of. To be ashamed of it is to be ashamed of the creator's work. Remove that string and work naked. Enjoy the pleasures that the creator has given you but if your master objects then it is his right to countermand me."

"I don't see the point you're making." the Emperor said.

"An erection on this boy is as natural as the sun rising in the morning." Mr. Caggerano explained, "Controlling it for his master is respectful. Being ashamed of it is insulting the creator for his gift. As he is unsure of his motives then I ask that he display it and be proud. Order comes from honest feelings."

"So skulking around hiding from the law is being ashamed of my life." Gus exclaimed, "That's why you don't like me."

Mr. Caggerano glanced at his wife who nodded encouragingly. She had not said much during the evening but Flavius had noticed that her husband relied on her for support.

"Come here, Giuseppe." Mr. Caggerano commanded, "Please kneel."

Slightly resentful, Gus obeyed.

"I saw your acceptance of my treatment and I see the respect of your friends." Caggerano Snr. said, "Your friends may call you Gus but you are my grandson Giuseppe Caggerano."

He put his hand on Gus' head, "When next you visit may the gods see a united family, and not a family and an intruder."

There was a thoughtful silence as Mr. Caggerano glanced around the room to look at Flavius.

"Will you also kneel beside my grandson?" he asked.

Puzzled Flavius complied.

"I have read of you." Mr. Caggerano said, "You seem to have forgotten that Apollo is also the god of plague. The plagues that infest the cities are of corruption and greed which you fight. I'm sure that Apollo would approve of your efforts on behalf of the victims. Neither are you ashamed of any of your gifts and bring happiness to others.

"My family's life is our farm and, we know little more which is why my son ran for its protection when he could not face his responsibilities alone. Giuseppe's path is far wider and he needs someone who can guide him. I wish to give him to you, Flavius so that you may teach him. I do not wish to sign papers because he is my eldest grandson and he would lose that position in the eyes of the law. Let my request be a matter of honour between us."

"If Gus agrees then I'll regard him as bonded to me." Flavius said, "He can help David for now."

Gus realised that everyone was looking at him.

"I'm still in hiding so I'm trapped." he said, "Can I agree until I'm really free then decide what I want to do then?"

Flavius nodded and Mr. Caggerano placed his hand on both their heads.

"May our agreement be approved by the gods." he pronounced.

The Emperor found the evening intriguing. He had never met anyone with Mr. Caggerano's ideas before and still did not fully understand them. However he seemed to approve of Flavius and so, indirectly of him. It was enough for him to relax and just follow events. The conversation had drifted onto other things and Senator Stallone was explaining how he had rescued the boys.

"They could come and stay with me and my friends." Mr. Caggerano offered.

"Thank you." Senator Stallone replied, "The Imperial palace awes everyone and it helps keep them in order, but you'll find them more difficult in a smaller community."

"If we want angels we have to wait for heaven." Mr. Caggerano retorted, "How can they choose a different life if they know of none? When I was their age I liked playing with matches and burnt down the barn. The only sin is in not learning from our mistakes."

Like the Emperor, Flavius was fascinated by the way that the evening was going. He watched as Jamie continued to serve. He was still naked and seemed to be enjoying the appreciative looks. It was odd, for a boy who was so relaxed with sex but Flavius was sure that he would rarely go with a girl. He seemed to want nothing more than to be there for Flavius. It did not stop either of them playing around when they were apart but when they were together they both only wanted each other in their bed.

Jamie knew that Flavius was looking at girls more and more but he accepted it. Flavius would have to get married and produce a son. Jamie's bed would still be there for him whenever he wanted it and for now Jamie was content, even happy that Flavius wanted to stay at home more rather than play the whore.

Gus seemed thoughtful but happy. His grandfather had surprised him as much as anyone. Even while he was on the farm he sensed that Caggerano Snr. was mellowing towards him but still mistrusted him. Gus wished that he had trusted his grandfather more and told him why he was hiding as well as how upset he had been at David's enslavement thinking that he lost him for ever. Now David was not only back in his life but giving him chances and opportunities that he could only have dreamt of before.

Al was still bemused by his change in fortunes. He had been invited to join the curator's office with a brief to consider modernising the palace buildings. It would be an impossible job for a courtier who had qualified as a civil engineer or an architect. It would have been completely beyond Al's capabilities except for one thing. He had dared tell the Emperor that the palace was less than perfect. Al had not been kicked out of the palace and the Emperor still spoke cordially to him. That placed him in a position of influence and authority.

The following Monday he would be moving into his new office. The administrator appointed to run it for him had found him two slaves about his age of seventeen to work for him. Another two slaves of about twelve and thirteen, trained as domestic servants, would take charge of his new apartment.

He had little to do while his staff compiled a list of appropriate building firms and summoned their managing directors. Al would then show them around and explain his thoughts on the palace then wait for them to submit their plans and proposals.

Al had already fallen for the thirteen year old slave, a muscular but handsome blonde and the three office slaves also attracted his attention and would probably spend less and less time in the slave quarters.

David had pointedly worn his House of Sparta regalia of brown tunic with gold lining and insignia, and gold chain. He had felt safe and secure as Flavius' slave and was not ready to change. He knew that Flavius had been a little disappointed that he had not shown off his freeman status but as David has said, "It's a free man's choice."

They were all distracted as Mr. Caggerano said in answer to a comment from the Emperor, "Of course if it was Saturn guiding this evening my wife would have honoured him by reversing her role from my beautiful and dutiful wife to a mere wanton. She would have taken the boy in the Sparta tunic by now. I think I would have become a choreographer and have Flavius and his boy perform together."

Chapter 13

The following day the Emperor sent for Flavius.

"You certainly charmed Mr. Caggerano last night." the Emperor said, "Well done."

"Thank you, sir." Flavius replied, "I still don't fully understand his beliefs though."

"Neither do I. They seemed to be centred around integrity and truth so they're fine by me." the Emperor said, "How about you? How are you doing?"

"I feel trapped, sir." Flavius replied, "Acting as majordomo last night was OK but it felt strange. Jamie was excited at being involved but I couldn't see what the fuss was about."

"You're growing up." the Emperor said, "You know how to run a palace and a province and you're gaining the experience you need. A small dinner party should be easy to organise."

The Emperor paused, "So far as being trapped, I understand. I can go out for the day more easily than you at the moment but you staying here quietly is useful. They're finally beginning to notice your absence from your own province and wonder what you're up to."

"Yes sir. As long as they don't know about the raid on their bank accounts."

"How is Marcus coping as your representative?" the Emperor asked leaving Flavius uncertain at the change in subject."

"Not bad." Flavius replied, "He even seems popular in the markets where I used to hang out. He doesn't play football but he helps with their homework and he helps with the adult's tax bills. I think he's costing the treasury a lot of money."

The Emperor chuckled, "Why not. We raise more per head from your province than many others. You've established a way of things and it works for everyone. I intend creating a new rank of deputy governor. Marcus will be offered the position and I might offer the second to Brutus or your friend Luke. You see I'm going to give the city of Rome provincial status with its own governor. You'll be the first one which is why you need deputies. It's not a title that can go to the head of a family otherwise you'd be your own deputy so we can bypass Brutus' father."

Flavius nodded, feeling a little overwhelmed as the Emperor continued, "Rome should reflect the Empire but it's as ramshackle as the palace, full of no-go areas and slums. Others have tried to improve things but there's always been so much mistrust and suspicion that corruption is expected as routine and the changes are just cosmetic."

"Yes sir." Flavius replied, "We found that attitude in the West Quarter. It seems to be fading though."

"You have the common touch." the Emperor said, "You helped choose your Board of Guardians and I'm impressed with your choice of friends, even your slaves. It's your talent with people that makes you so successful. I think that you can get the city's inhabitants on side."

"Prince Ignatius is still working the people up. Won't this make me more popular and increase the demands that I become emperor?"

"I'm counting on it." the Emperor replied, "I'll agree that the city needs its own ruler and you'll have full powers to reform the place."

Flavius face lit up with a broad smile, "You're using their energy to get the people on side for massive reforms."

"I could still be setting you up to make a bid on the throne." the Emperor said, "More than anyone else in the Empire, I trust you and I don't think you would. Now the bank group are setting off tomorrow and the court gazette will be announcing the city plan the day after so that it'll act as a major diversion. You can consider who you want as deputy governor."

"Yes sir," Flavius replied, "What about the arrests? Can I be involved with them, please?"

"It'll be your city and your decision." the Emperor smiled, "The commander of the Praetorian guard knows of my plans and he won't be surprised if you want to be involved. Any thoughts on what you want to do?"

"I've been watching the news on the Columbian campaign." Flavius said, "It's almost been forgotten. We're occupying a town then tackling its economy and social problems before moving on. The army reports that such and such town is taken without loss and that's it. We're keeping a semblance of order on both sides of the front. There's even a bus service that crosses it in one place and trade goes on across it all the time."

"I know. Our army announces when it's about to advance and the civilians take to the hills - to watch." the Emperor laughed, "But what's your point?"

"It's successful but it's slow. It's not raising much interest and it won't get people excited when it's over. I'd like to take over Septimus Balnovi's house as temporary provincial palace and use the Golden Eagle as my office. That will raise interest especially as people come to realise who I am and that I've lived among them."

"Yes but it's only one small district. What about the rest of Rome?"

"I don't know." Flavius said, "With respect you've only just sprung this on me. I'm just thinking of establishing a foothold before spreading out. I can certainly use it to root out corruption way up the chain. Or at least, Germanicus can."

"I'm still amazed at how you can think on your feet like that." the Emperor said, "Go ahead. If you need anything, let me know."

Flavius headed back to his apartment deep in thought.

"Brutus, Luke, David and Steven, strip and wait for me on my bed will you?" he said to a puzzled group, "Jamie will you see to it that we're not disturbed, please?"

Just as puzzled, Jamie nodded as Flavius peeled off his tunic and headed for his bedroom. He clambered on his bed to lie on his back between his four friends.

"The Emperor's creating a new rank of deputy governor and one of you is going to become deputy governor of the city of Rome. Brutus is the obvious choice because of his existing rank but he can hardly claim it here if he wants a cock up his arse later."

"It's crazy." David replied, "I know that there's all this stuff about youngsters not knowing the old ways but the Emperor's getting carried away. When you became governor, you had a good administration to start with. This time you've got to put it into place. It's way beyond you."

"So you're saying that I'm too young and inexperienced to do this job."

David nodded, "Every time you succeed in something the Emperor gives you a tougher job. It's been OK because you've handed over to professionals who have actually done the work. You just root around spotting trouble."

David paused thoughtfully, "Sorry that sounds as if I'm putting you down. I'm not. You've made a real difference but I repeat, you're both getting carried away."

Flavius nodded, "You're probably right. Supposing I ask Germanicus to look at the current town hall department. We'll find a suitable building, shift it out of the Imperial palace and let Germanicus recommend a suitable deputy governor from the staff."

"That's a better idea." David said, "I reckon you could handle it at a district level and if you're talking about my old home I reckon you already a know a bit of what's going on. Even Gus might be able to help you there."

"OK." Flavius said, "It all fits in with what I said to the Emperor. Supposing I said that I've got to be highly visible at grass roots level?"

"I'd agree." David said, "It made all the difference in the West Quarter."

Flavius swung round pulling himself up David's legs until his lips touched the older boy's cock.

"Why do you and Luke keep it so quiet?" he asked.

David looked at him.

"We should have known that you'd notice." he smiled, "We're not an item like you and Jamie or Brutus and Steven. We like sex with girls more so we're just as happy going to a brothel together. It's just that we both feel a little like outsiders at times and something's developed between us."

Luke nodded, "It really is just fooling around with us. You don't make us feel like outsiders but everyone else is paired off."

"So you pair up to gang up on us." Flavius grinned, "Are you too much into girls to take my arse?"

"You can have mine if you like." Luke said, "And take David's cock down your throat at the same time."

"Your cock in my arse, David's in my throat and Jamie coming down on me. " Flavius said, "How about it?"

"How about we tie you and Jamie down side by side?" Brutus said, "David and Luke can do you while Steven and me do Jamie. Better still Johnny can kneel between you and play with your cocks until we're done."

"See if Jamie and Johnny are willing." Flavius said, "They're only eleven."

"They will be." Brutus grinned, "Johnny's definitely getting interested in girls but he's up for all sorts of fun. Jamie still loves you more than you realise."

"Call them in and let's what happens." Flavius said.

Whatever their preferences all the boys were up for some innocent fun. Rank ceased to exist and by the time they were spent, arses and mouths had been filled many times over. The only certainty was that as they relaxed after, Jamie would be fast asleep laying on Flavius chest. Johnny slept on his stomach as Luke and David lay on either side of him, both of their cocks embedded in the young boy's arse. Somehow Jamie stayed touching Flavius until it was time to get up and go about their duties.

Flavius strolled unconcernedly into the Golden Eagle. He was dressed in his familiar half tunic and no one seemed concerned. A few seemed pleased to see him and greeted him as one of their own.

"You'd better not stay." one said, "Septimus has got a price on your head. You don't want to be caught by him."

"I already have." Flavius replied, "And you're right, I wouldn't want it to happen again."

Flavius paused and grinned, "Don't worry, he's being caught by me and he'll be along shortly."

It was a cryptic reply which no one fully understood. The regulars knew Flavius as Jerry the pickpocket and rent boy and he was not surprised to notice one of them slip out through the door, probably to try and claim some reward for finding the boy though he was surprised that it was Serge who entered the tavern not long after.

His henchmen fanned out and this time Serge was not even going to try to deal with him.

"Hello Serge." Flavius said affably, "How about having a drink with me. It'll be the last one you ever have so we'll take our time while we wait for Septimus."

"Things have changed." Serge replied, "Septimus says that I can have you to arrange a special fight. Ever heard of bear baiting where the bear's set upon by a pack of hungry dogs? You're going to be the bear while the dogs will be nice young meat armed with spikes. Whoever deals a killing blow before we say will be crucified but they've got to wound and weaken you so that you can't kill them. You could last for days."

"And if I win?" Flavius asked.

"We'll give you good treatment until you recover then you'll do it again." Serge grinned, "Only with more brats. We'll get our money's worth from you. Now let's do this the painless way. Down on the floor, on your stomach and your hands crossed behind your back. "

"Are you sure about the drink?" Flavius asked.

Serge may have been about to signal his henchmen to move on Flavius but the doors burst open and a dozen praetorian guards flooded in pulling Septimus behind them by his chains.

More guards piled in through other doors blocking all retreat. Flavius breathed a sigh of relief.

"Problems, Centurion?" Flavius asked.

"No, Your Excellency." the centurion replied, "I'm sorry that we're a little late. Would you believe that there was a road traffic accident and it blocked our way?"

"I'll believe it in Rome." Flavius laughed, "But nowhere else. You're in time anyway."

He looked around the bar.

"I'm sorry to deceive you." he said, "But my real name is Flavius Aulus. As of this morning, I am governor of the province of Rome. My first decree is that when a money lender is convicted of any crime then any loan made by him is declared null and void. His assets will be seized and used to repay the interest on past loans."

He turned to Septimus before continuing, "The charges against you are kidnapping, wrongful enslavement, under age enslavement and improper slave usage. You have a choice. Admit those charges and you'll be well treated while we sort out the claimants against you and you'll then face a quick death. Demand a trial and the sentence will be death by hard labour."

"Even if you are governor you don't have the authority for a deal like that." Septimus said.

"You forget, you had me kidnapped and enslaved me." Flavius replied, "I do have the authority when crimes against me are involved."

Septimus glared at Flavius without speaking. Flavius shrugged.

"Take him away. Chain him up in his own dungeon. He can wait there until I'm ready to deal with him."

Flavius pointed at Serge.

"Arrest him on the same charges. He threatened me and I can punish him for it. Strip him, manacle a short chain between his ankles and throw him out. He took boys in lieu of payments. I'm sure there's a few fathers that would like a word with him. Just spread the word that he's not to be killed, yet."

He looked around at Serge's terrified henchmen.

"I haven't had time to prepare the paperwork on you and you've done nothing against me personally so I can't hold you. If you're in another province when I do come for you then I can't touch you without the governor's permission. It'll be just too much paperwork to worry about you unless you get into trouble again. Let them out Centurion."

Flavius looked around again before adding, "I'm declaring an amnesty on all petty crimes. Felicio, if you're not planning on robbing anyone today, how about a game of pool?"

Felicio seemed confused and uncertain as he looked at Flavius who was obviously waiting for a reply.

"I thought you were one of us." he muttered.

"I am." Flavius said, "With what I know about you all, how much do you reckon I could raise in the slave markets?"

"And you're not going to?" Felicio asked still uncertain.

"It depends if you do anything stupid." Flavius said.

"What about Luciano?" Felicio asked, "He's due to be crucified tomorrow."

"I can't do anything unless there's new evidence." Flavius said, "I know, it was probably one of the guards who raped her but it's no good just standing around in the bar saying he was here all night. You've got to make a formal statement or better still three of you should. Lawyer Francisco is just down the road. He can take them and when they're properly signed and witnessed you can bring them to me. The guard concerned should be under arrest by now on other charges so you don't have to be scared of him."

"What should these statements say, Jerry?" someone asked.

"I'm not undercover any more so my names Flavius. Don't discuss the case with anyone until you've seen the lawyer. The statements need to be in your own words."

"Then what? We get beaten up while you say that you tried and Luciano still gets crucified?"

"The previous guards are all under arrest by now." Flavius said, "As soon as I've got those statements I can stop the crucifixion and reopen the case."

"I'll go." Felicio said. He paused then grinned, "If I don't get my arms broken then I'll thrash you at pool after."

Flavius smiled back, "I don't need to break your bones to beat you. How about loser sucks cock?"

Felicio frowned, "You'd never do that if you were a noble."

Flavius realised that he made a mistake. The crowd were likely to see him as a gang boss bribing the guards to establish his own power base. He was beginning to think that he should have arrived in his governor's clothes but his idea had been that they would simply see it as a more effective way of extorting money.

"Once things have settled down I will dress as governor." Flavius said, "Then, you will kneel and call me Your Excellency. In this plain tunic I'm just Flavius and either way there's no problem with you sucking my cock and I won't have to suck your cock because I'll beat you in a fair game."

There was a slight emphasis on the word 'fair' which the onlookers noticed. As Jerry, he had been friendly enough unless he had been challenged and then adults twice his size had regretted it. At the same time he had taken his fair share of good natured ribbing and jostling without taking offence. While the locals grappled with the Flavius' true identity a degree of 'Jerry's' popularity carried over to Flavius.

"Go on, Felicio." someone called out, "You might win. You can tell us whether a noble's any good as a cocksucker."

"You already know." Flavius chuckled, "You were my best customer. It's a pity it was only when you were too drunk to remember."

There was an appreciative round of laughter. Flavius sensed the ice breaking but he still had to be careful.

"Time's wasting, Felicio." he said, "I still need a reason to reopen Luciano's case."

All eyes turned to Felicio who realised that he had set himself up to be a guinea pig to test Flavius' true intentions. He hesitated then shrugged. He had already argued more with Flavius than he would have ever dared with Septimus or Serge and he was still alive. Half expecting to be stopped he headed out of the bar to visit the lawyer. To his surprise, Flavius was sitting in a booth when he returned. The guards had gone and he was chatting to one of the local stallholders.

"There'll still be some taxes to pay." Flavius was saying, "However treat protection money and extortion as business expenses and you can claim for the last five years. Just remember I've got Septimus' books and I've hung around here for a while."

He paused before pointedly adding, "I don't suppose that there'll be any outrageously high claims, will there?"

"No Your Excellency." the stallholder said looking a little disappointed, "There won't be any claims."

Flavius frowned, "I didn't say that. I'll be disappointed if the claims are too low because it means that this district isn't moving on."

He paused and smiled, "There was talk about me becoming Emperor. It's not going to happen because I happen to like the one we've got. Do you really think I'm popular at home because I play games with people?"

The stallholder sat nervously wondering if he should answer. Suddenly he relaxed as he came to a decision.

"No sir." he replied, "I'll make my return as truthful as I can."

"Good." Flavius said, "That's all I ask. Now if you'll excuse me I've got a crucifixion to stop."

The stallholder stood up then greatly daring he held out his hand.

"Thank you, sir." he said as Flavius shook it.

Flavius indicated for Felicio to sit then took the statement to read.

"That's fine." he said, "I need more but I can get started.

He picked up his phone.

"This is His Excellency Flavius Aulus." he said firmly, "I'm formally postponing the execution of Luciano Zaparoni while I examine new evidence. I'm temporarily holding court at the Golden Eagle tavern and I'd like him brought here. Minimal restraints will do and find him a half tunic at least."

He hung up and turned to Felicio, "We could play that game of pool if you liked. It'll be a while before Luciano arrives. I won't be able to claim my prize until later though. I'm still in governor mode for now."

"Assuming you win." Felicio smiled, "Let's just play for fun. Thinking of you as governor is doing my head in."

"In that case, serf, go and get a couple of drinks. You know, I think I'd like something noble, like a nice cup of tea."

Felicio's grin turned into a laugh, "Even as Jerry you weren't much of a drinker. Are you sure that you don't want a nice cold fruit drink?"

"At least you're arguing with me." Flavius said, "When I'm home, I try to have tea with my mother about this time. When I'm away I still feel like a cup about now."

Flavius could still detect the atmosphere relaxing. Elsewhere the district was in turmoil as arrests went on. His phone rang occasionally so he was aware that everything was going well. Flavius was surprised that the bar had not emptied. Instead it seemed more crowded than usual. He suspected that there was a mixture of resignation and curiosity. Resignation because if anyone tried to slip away and was noticed then Flavius might wonder what they had to hide. Besides, they could be found easily enough if Flavius or any other gang boss wanted them. It was easier to enjoy the relaxed if concerned atmosphere as they waited on Flavius' pleasure.

Some felt enough at ease or drunk enough to greet Luciano when he arrived. The guards tried to stop them but Flavius shook his head.

"Lie to me and I'll change your sentence to death by hard labour." Flavius said, "Did you rape that girl."

"Yes." Luciano said resignedly.

Flavius glanced at Felicio who asked, "Weren't we playing darts that evening?"

Luciano looked desperately at the guards, shaking with fear.

"I'm sorry." Flavius said, "I shouldn't have threatened you but you must tell the truth. You were limping when you came in. How did you hurt yourself?"

Luciano was in his late twenties. Working as a labourer, he was strong and powerfully built. He should have exuded an air of confidence but he flinched if anyone moved suddenly. He stood not knowing what to say before bursting into tears.

"Guard, give Felicio the key to the cuffs" Flavius commanded, "Felicio, take him through to the wash room and get him cleaned up. Then get him a couple of beers. You can release him when you're sure he won't panic and do something stupid."

"That's breaking a lot of rules on prisoner handling, sir." the guard said, handing Felicio the key.

"I reckon that he's been tortured to get a confession out of him." Flavius said, "What do you think? Before you answer, just remember that you're Praetorian Guard defending the Emperor not scum brought in to cause civil unrest."

"I think you're right, sir." the guard replied, "The barracks stinks of blood and shit."

"OK. Some prisoners may need treatment so send for a medical unit and some tents. Set it all up in the nearest park and transfer the civilian prisoners there. Use the guards you arrested to clean the barracks up."

"Security will be difficult, sir." the guard said.

"If there's a child slave trader then fit him with the heaviest restraints you can find. If it's some kid who stole food then give him a meal and ignore him if he sneaks off. In between use your discretion."

The guard saluted waiting until Flavius stood and bowed his head.

"I grew up near here, sir." the guard said, "The old way would have been to keep the kid in restraints and let the trader go, for a fee of course."

Just then Felicio and Luciano returned. Luciano still seemed cowed but Felicio looked angry.

"They tortured him I've seen the marks." Felicio snapped, "They kept at him until he signed."

"I require your service, Felicio." Flavius said quietly.

"Why?"

"The correct response is to kneel and say, 'I'm at your service, Your Excellency'."

Flavius waited aware of the increasing tension as he directly exerted his authority for the first time.

Felicio complied resentfully mumbling the response.

"Good. You can now act in my name." Flavius said cheerfully, "Get a taxi and take Luciano to the Aesculapius Memorial Hospital. He's to have a thorough physical and mental examination. If they want to admit him then ask for a suite on the Imperial floor. You're to stay with him."

Flavius scribbled a phone number and room number on a piece of paper.

"If anyone argues ring this number and ask for the room number exactly as I've written it."

"I can take them." the guard said.

"Thanks." Flavius said, "The last thing Luciano wants is to be taken anywhere by a guard."

The guard nodded in understanding. For a time Flavius was left alone apart from a series of calls. Although technically in charge, the arrests and change in administration were being handled by adults who knew their jobs. If it had been just that, very little would have changed as the new order gradually settled back into the easy ways of doing things. By sitting in a bar watching events develop Flavius was an unknown quantity. As he had discovered elsewhere, investigations by other officials from the top were one thing. Investigations from the bottom were less predictable and far less certain. That Flavius was sitting quietly in a bar, watching and waiting for problems helped establish new attitudes as well as a new administration more than anything else that he could have done.

He was amused by one incident. He knew Dino from his time as Jerry. Dino was a big man of about fifty with a larger than life attitude who seemed to fill any room he entered. During the afternoon he burst into the bar, greeting Flavius with the same hug that he had always greeted him.

"You want to watch out, young Jerry." Dino roared, "You heard the news? The brat governor's taken over. They say he likes taking cock as much as you do. He won't like a rival."

Dino knew that he had everyone's attention, "You won't believe the gossip. There's even some saying that he's taken over this place. I reckon you'd be in jail if he had."

"Oh I've got my own friends in high places." Flavius smiled, "They also say he's was nosing around undercover. Any idea who it was?"

Dino stepped back to stare at Flavius.

"You do look like him but you're still not behaving like a nob." he said uncertainly.

"Don't get all shy and embarrassed on me." Flavius laughed, "It doesn't suit you. Sit down and I'll fetch you a drink. You can even slap me on the arse like you usually do when you send me to the bar."

Dino could never hide his feelings. He sat in open mouthed, dumbfounded shock as Flavius returned with a large glass of wine. He set the glass down, straightened then bent his waist in a deep respectful bow.

"I am Flavius Aulus, provincial governor and sometime spy. I'm honoured to meet you. Any friend of Jerry is a friend of mine."

Dino still sat in deep shock as ripples of laughter swept round the bar.

"Ye gods, if you can shut Dino up you've done something right, Flavius." someone called out.

The laughter died down as everyone waited for Flavius' reaction to such an informal use of his name.

"My reputation's bigger than I thought." Flavius shot back unconcernedly, "I thought that I was going to have to invite the Emperor down to shut him up."

Jokes often work because people want them to. In this case it was a small trigger to release the crowds pent up emotions. The bar roared with laughter enjoying Dino's embarrassment.

A young man put his arm around Flavius' shoulder and guided him to the bar, ordering them drinks.

As the laughter died down so the young man asked, "Where's Al. You and him were always together when you were here before."

"Oh he's living in the Imperial Palace, Nico." Flavius replied, "He's planning on pulling it down and building a modern one."

"Yeah right. Where is he really?"

"I told you." Flavius answered, "After Septimus wanted us to work for him, it got too dangerous for me so we bolted to the palace. You know Al, he likes architecture and he doesn't know when to keep his mouth shut. Someone asked him what he thought about the palace and Al told them. You've got to be very careful who overhears you in the palace. Any Emperor before this one and Al would probably be dead by now. This Emperor does something much crueller."

Even Dino was looking on, fascinated by Flavius' story.

"He puts you in charge of a group of experts. Their little toe knows more about the subject than you'll ever know. You feel as if they're talking down to a little kid when they explain something to you but you've got no choice. You have to ask all sorts of silly questions that a first year student should know because you have to explain it all to the Emperor and he always seems to have a question that you don't know the answer to."

His audience was still enthralled and Flavius was enjoying himself.

"If you can stand up to the experts, convince the Emperor then you get handed over to his immediate staff. They set you up in an office and show you how to run it so that you can put your plans into effect."

"And you're saying that this happened to Al." Nico asked.

"Is happening." Flavius chuckled, "It's a long drawn out torture."

"Yeah but surely there's others who could do it better."

"You'd think so." Flavius said, "It's finding people who'll speak up in front of the Emperor. Don't forget, many think that it really is near treason to suggest that anything's less than perfect with the Imperium."

Nico nodded thoughtfully.

"I like Al." he said, "We used to hang out a lot. He even took me on his sightseeing trips."

"He's still got his phone." Flavius said, "Call him."

"Yeah right. Like I'm going to phone someone in the Imperial Palace."

"No one phones him since they think that he got caught up by Septimus." Flavius said, "I've got a meeting with the Emperor in a couple of hours. Come with me and give Al a nice surprise."

Nico stared at him.

"I can't do that." he exclaimed.

"That's what everyone thinks." Flavius said, "The thing is you're talking to me OK even though you know that I'm only one rank below the Imperial family."

"And that's what happened to Al. He got talking to you." Dino called out, now fully recovered, "It's the curse of knowing you."

Flavius nodded, "I suppose it is a curse. Do you remember Dave, Al's friend?"

"I do." Dino replied as he remembered something, "He's enslaved to you isn't he?"

"Bonded now but the Emperor still calls him the rudest slave in the Empire. He got a rough reception when he visited here a little while back."

"I remember." Nico said, "He looked like one of Septimus' favourites and he was looking for Gus. I don't suppose that you've got Gus holed up in the palace have you?"

"I have and he's going stir crazy." Flavius replied, "He's made it up with his grandfather and wants to make a new life with him but he couldn't do that until we'd broken Septimus. He'd be glad for a familiar face as well. Are you sure that you don't want to see them?"

"Supposing the Emperor finds out?" Nico asked.

"Oh, I'll tell him." Flavius said, "He'll be cool unless you try to pinch something."

"It's all right for you." Nico laughed, "The likes of us get hassled if we go anywhere near the entrance."

Flavius frowned, "You shouldn't. You've as much right to go into the public areas as anyone."

"You can't even go into the District Office without someone taking your name and address, and shaking you down."

Flavius glanced out the window.

"The cars arrived." he said, "You sure you don't want to come."

Nico nodded.

A little later Flavius was talking to the Emperor.

"I'm bringing two more legions back to Rome." the Emperor said, "They'll be under your direct command. How are you coping with the Praetorian Guard and the idiot's troops?"

"Technically they're under your command so Germanicus and I can only make requests but it's working well. Maybe the new legions should be under your command and support the present set up."

"The bank sting was a complete success." The Emperor said, "Your friends can tell you about it when they get back. It's going to be a couple of days before we arrest the idiot though but he'll be murdered if any of the legionnaires on detachment catch him first.

"Your friend Septimus videoed everything. We don't know if it was for insurance or his own amusement. I was sent a clip. It was a fight between a couple of kids. They looked about ten years old. The winner got the loser in a full nelson and stood him in front of Ignatius.

"He used a knife and the kid took twenty minutes to die. I don't like castrations. If you don't like a boy's assets then go with a girl."

The Emperor shuddered, "I'm rotating the troops checking Septimus' house. They all belong to the idiot's legion and they've not been given orders to keep quiet. Word should spread easily enough. I believe some of the most hardened soldiers were physically sick at what they've found."

The Emperor paused, for once looking lost, "We're also finding survivors. What do we do with them?"

"I'm thinking of Vinnie." Flavius said, "Legionnaires can be the biggest softies in the world when it comes to kids. Could you give an order saying the survivors are under the legions care irrespective of rank?"

"Survivors rank or legionnaires rank?" the Emperor asked.

"The vaguer the better." Flavius replied, "It covers some pompous prat of an officer who sees it as a breach of discipline and it'll give the son of a slave the same care as a noble's son."

"You are learning politics." the Emperor chuckled, "Courtesy demanded that I give the two new legions to you if they're operating in your province so thank you for letting me keep them. Balnovi's house is giving up a lot of information. It's only a day but the ISS is talking about a sub-culture around money lending, money laundering and illegal slave trading. I'm using the extra troops to follow up on Balnovi's contacts and get the lot.

"He was something of a leader in this culture and Ignatius was using it stir up unrest. I want my name associated with Ignatius' arrest and for saving these boys. It's the only way I can disassociate myself and the rest of my family from his activities."

"I could go home and leave it all to you, sir." Flavius said, "I'm not doing that much."

"None of it would be possible without you." the Emperor exclaimed, "Most of us check to make sure the paintwork is glossy enough. You check the foundations and you've uncovered centuries of rot. I had a long chat with the ISS chief. Rumours about you running the city from a tavern have spread right round the city. There's a lot of jealousy that you're not using their local, a lot reckon you'll get sickened by it all and give up but you've got a lot of approval for trying. There's nothing official but first signs are that your neighbouring district offices are in a state of panic and that panic's spreading."

"Kieran checked with the administrative offices." the Emperor continued, "There's been thirty resignations tendered today. Do you object to them to working out their notice without penalty if anything's found against them. Otherwise the city administration will collapse."

"I've offered an amnesty on most crimes committed before I became governor. The exceptions are anything to do with that sub-culture you were talking about." Flavius said.

"Very well." the Emperor said, "Now what about that young man you sent to hospital? Was the Imperial floor necessary? Is he that important?"

Chapter 14

"We've got enough without his testimony." Flavius said, "It's how we treat people who come forward that counts. Instead of a beating he's getting five star service. When he goes home fully recovered it'll help others to come forward."

"And you still reckon that you're safe there?"

"For now." Flavius replied, "I'm little more than a gang leader with the guards in my pocket at the moment. Arresting Septimus and the rest could have left a vacuum for a gang war to find a real leader but I'm already installed."

The Emperor nodded, "So you'll just listen to pleas in the tavern then go off and play football."

"I won't be able to wear a Sparta tunic for a while." Flavius said, "A third change of persona might be too much."

"Why don't you move into the district offices then?"

"Because they're the enemy as much as the gangs. I was accepted as Jerry so I've got a chance but I'll have to be very careful not to lose their trust."

"Very well." the Emperor said, "If anyone can bring them around you can. It's strange. On paper you've commanded the biggest military operation the world's ever seen yet you're not experienced or trained enough to run a platoon. Your father always said the key to any venture was understanding the people involved and that you have learned. How are your school studies doing?"

"I'm hopelessly behind now." Flavius replied, "I'll have to find a study plan to catch up when I get home."

"Kieran have your teachers got used to who your responsible adult is?" the Emperor asked.

"I think so, sir." Kieran replied, "History is a bit awkward though."

"Why?"

"We were learning about the rebellion in Bithynia during the last century. The teacher told us to describe how General Vincenti's tactics were so daring in the face of overwhelming odds. I said that he chose an attack at midnight because the rebel commander would be too drunk too take control. I got into trouble for belittling a major victory."

"So what happened," the Emperor asked.

"Prince Tiberius had told me the story, sir." Kieran replied, "He allowed me to back up my essay with a copy of a letter sent by General Vincenti to the Emperor at the time. It explained how they used to be friends and General Vincenti knew that the rebel commander was a drunk. His emperor agreed with my teacher that it belittled a great victory and suppressed the facts."

"So did you get a good grade?" the Emperor asked.

"No." Kieran replied, "The teacher said that I'd used the information to write a comedy, not a serious discussion. I suppose he was right, though."

"It sounds as if his teachers can handle their Imperial connections." the Emperor chuckled, "How about spending your time in the tavern catching up? We'll direct any problems through this office and only disturb you if we really have to."

"Thank you, sir." Flavius said, "Education's still at the heart of the reforms, aren't they?"

"And I try to honour my promise to your father to look after you." the Emperor said, "You relax and let the new administration get organised."

Flavius spent the night with Jamie and Johnny and the following morning was driven back to the Golden Eagle. With Jamie and Johnny going to school with other palace children Flavius felt obliged to try and settle back to his own work. School work felt normal. He could not only forget responsibilities, he actually enjoyed his studies. Back home, just like Kieran, he could give his teachers a hard time because of his inside knowledge or experiences but he found the mental exercise and discipline challenging.

That first day he revised, reminding himself where he was on various courses and was only disturbed when Dino burst in for his afternoon session.

"You don't come to a tavern to work, Flavius." he roared as he sat down, "It's a pity that you don't still charge for a piece of your arse. That would be a better use of your time."

"So would getting the guards to search your stall." Flavius muttered irritably.

"You know I don't keep stolen stuff there." Dino retorted affably, "You know where I do keep it but nothing's happened. Any reason?"

Flavius shrugged, "You're just making a living. It's time for a career change though."

"You could be right." Dino said thoughtfully, grabbing Flavius' laptop and reading the contents.

"Continental drift does not mean that all the continents are drifting apart. Think about it, if America is drifting away from Europe then it has to be getting closer to Asia. India's supposed to have rammed Asia up the arse and the crumpling's the Himalayas."

Flavius looked at him in surprise.

"And you thought I was just a market stall fence, didn't you." Dino laughed.

Flavius nodded.

"I'll tell you about it one day, but for now you go and get the drinks while I read the rest of your essay."

Flavius should have been irritated but it just seemed natural to obey Dino. He paused for a chat with Martin, the landlord.

"I seem to be driving your customers away." Flavius said, "I'll make up your loss of takings."

"If you're going to be here for a while I might close the other bar and decorate it." Martin replied, "How about I close the whole place and you rent one of the bars?"

"OK, think about charging two months rent based on no trade but keep the doors open. Treat any customers as a bonus."

"Thanks." Martin replied, "Would you mind if my accountant drew up an agreement?"

"Of course not." Flavius said, "I tell you what, if Dino doesn't keep his hands to himself then I'm going to impose a tax on slapping slaves."

Briefly Martin looked worried then seeing the grin on Flavius' face burst out in relieved laughter.

"Not bad." Dino said when Flavius sat down, "You mentioned Vesuvius of course. Everyone does but no one mentions the risk to Rome."

"Is there a risk?" Flavius asked.

"You'd have to talk to the universities." Dino said, "I lost family in the L'Aquila quake. It got me interested."

"I'm sorry about your family." Flavius said, "Al should look into it, in case the palace needs protection."

Dino nodded in agreement, changing the subject, "You realise that you're killing Martin's trade, don't you? Isn't it time you moved on?"

"I'm not sure what I'm doing." Flavius confessed, "Back home, people talk to me about problems. Here they won't even go into the district's offices. It keeps a 'them and us' attitude which I don't like."

"So talking to me is part of a sneaky plan to get everyone on side." Dino laughed.

"If I want to speak to anyone I have to send for them." Flavius said, "I've tried one or two stall holders but they reckon I'm trying to figure how much protection I can wring out of them."

"I reckon you're all right. I'll put the word out." Dino said, "Just remember I want your arse again."

"We'll see." Flavius smiled.

Dino was as good as his word and custom trickled back in, half scandalised and half amused at the way Dino took every opportunity to fondle or slap Flavius. Dino seemed to treat Flavius no differently than he did 'Jerry' while Flavius willingly fetched his drinks and listened obediently while Dino checked school assignments.

Ever since Flavius had suggested that Nico visit the palace, the young man had kept his distance though he started drinking at the tavern again even if he did avoid Flavius. Others returned, learning to relax around Flavius.

Eventually curiosity got the better of Flavius and it was time to visit Septimus.

"Remember me?" Flavius asked as he entered the dungeon.

Septimus blinked in the sudden light, his eyes struggling to focus on the image in front of him.

"Jerry?" Septimus asked uncertainly, "You're taking a chance coming back here. The keys are on the table over there."

"My real name's Flavius Aulus. And no, I'm not here to free you."

"Who ever you are, you'd better help me." Septimus said, "I've got friends who're going to get me out of this and then I'll come after you."

"Prince Ignatius is in hiding." Flavius said, "His own legion's leading the search for him. Most of your other 'friends' are already under arrest. You won't be coming after anyone."

Flavius leaned forward to grab Septimus' cock.

"Did you really need all that blood and gore to make it work?" he asked.

"Flavius Aulus." Septimus said as if understanding for the first time, "The whore governor. You were snooping around as Jerry. No wonder you liked my cock, you'd take anything hanging between a pair of legs."

"That's selling yourself short, not me." Flavius chuckled, "You could have been really sexy if you had tried. I was interested but I could never completely forget what else you liked."

"There's no point in being soft." Septimus sneered, "No one fears you for that."

"But I get something you'll never have." Flavius said, "Respect. It doesn't matter now because you're going into a hard labour gang. Your crimes will be tattooed onto your chest and back so everyone will know what you've done, and you'll be worked to death. I've seen some that I've sentenced before. Their bodies seemed distorted and mentally they're probably dead already. Your first job will be knock this place down. You'll then use a sledgehammer to grind the rubble to dust so there's nothing of you left. I'll have a youth labour gang come along after you and turn it into a playground or a park for the locals."

"Please." Septimus whispered, "Leave me something."

"I'm leaving you as much as you left those kids you butchered." Flavius said, "I'll leave you your vocal chords providing you don't beg again and I'm leaving you your balls. There'll be a light chemical castration though. You'll have all the urges and none of ability, at least you'll have the urges until you're to worn out to care."

"Why are you here?" Septimus asked.

"The guards want to question you some more." Flavius replied, "If you don't want to talk to them then we can remove your vocal chords anyway and your eardrums. Are you going to get all defiant on them?"

Septimus shook his head in defeat.

"I'll cooperate if you look after my grandson." Septimus said, "Help him please."

Flavius stared at Septimus, amazed.

"Tell me about him." Flavius commanded.

"He's fourteen and lives with his mother's parents." Septimus said, "He thinks I'm dead so did his parents before they were killed in a car smash. I'd been sentenced to slavery and I didn't even know about my son until I was freed. I'd become a gladiator and won eight fights. I'd killed two men but the rest were spared. Anyway, I was a violent ex-slave and gladiator, and had nothing to offer him."

Septimus paused, visibly upset before continuing, "I've been sending his grandparents money and I've set up a trust fund for him. Will you see that he gets it when he turns twenty one?"

"It's all forfeit," Flavius said, "Including your grandson. Cooperate and I'll just put a flag against his name. If he gets into trouble then I'll enslave him. If he makes a go of his life I'll leave him alone. Remember all the other father's whose sons you killed."

"Please," Septimus begged, "His grandparents can't handle him any more and he's running wild. Please help him. I was going to hire a mentor for him."

"I had another wild boy in my palace only his family did deserve a second chance." Flavius said, "His father took his chance and is undergoing officer training. He's agreed that I enslave Sean after his last escapade. He just can't keep going around stealing cars. Instead of preparation for Imperial service so he's working on one of my remotest farms where he's not even allowed to drive a tractor.

Flavius hesitated for a moment, "Maybe I'll take your grandson anyway and put him beside Sean. I owe Sean's father so I'll free him when he settles down. I'll tell your son who you are so he knows why he was enslaved for life and why I've tattooed a list of your crimes on his chest."

Septimus stared at Flavius in horror.

"Do you want to talk or shall we remove your vocal chords and eardrums, now?" Flavius asked.

If Septimus could have collapsed he would have crumpled to the floor. Instead he hung by his arms chained to the ceiling as his chest heaved in deep sobs. Flavius might have begun to feel sorry for him but images from Septimus' collection floated across his mind. He would decide what to do with the boy after seeing him.

The following day Flavius was trying to calm a flustered and astonished elderly couple trying to understand why such an important noble should be visiting.

"Have you seen the reports of the boy fights and illegal slave trading?" Flavius asked.

"Oh it's so terrible." the wife exclaimed, "How can people be so cruel?"

"Septimus Balnovi has been arrested as one of the major players." Flavius said, "All of his assets are forfeit. It's my right to take Enrico but I wanted to talk to you first. I checked before I came. He's due in court for shoplifting. Will you be able to pay the fines, costs and compensation?"

The grandfather shook his head in defeat.

"Septimus was going to pay, wasn't he?" Flavius asked, "He can't now but the one thing he did care about was Enrico."

"Why are you here?" Enrico's grandfather demanded angrily, "Are you just enjoying yourself while you destroy us?"

"The name of his father will be given in court." Flavius said, "Someone's bound to make the connection with Septimus. There'll be so much hatred against anyone to do with Septimus Balnovi that Enrico's likely to be crucified. Later there'll be a backlash. People will start saying that the Emperor's reforms are dumped when it suits him politically. It'll be a good news story if it's shown that Enrico was treated fairly."

"So he's just a pawn." Enrico's grandfather exclaimed angrily, "You don't care about him."

No, I don't." Flavius agreed, "He's just lucky that his welfare serves the Emperor."

"At least you're honest." Enrico's grandfather said, "And I've heard of you. You do look after people don't you? What do you want to do?"

"You're the head of the family now so would you enslave Enrico to me." Flavius asked, "I'm not offering much except to give him the same chances as my other slaves."

"And you wouldn't tell him about Septimus?"

"I think I'd have to." Flavius said, "It could still come out and it might help him understand why you enslaved him."

"He's not a bad lad." Enrico's grandfather said, "There always was a coldness about Septimus and his son but Enrico's got his mother's love of life. He's as appalled as the rest of us at the stories appearing in the press."

"OK." Flavius said, "I'll leave the papers. If you decide to sign I'll arrange for him to be collected. Just call that number."

A little later Flavius was talking to the Emperor and his son Prince Tiberius.

"I agree that in the longer term we'll be judged by what we do with their families." the Emperor said, "So what do I do about Ignatius' brood?"

"Edwina probably knows all about his activities." Tiberius said, "But she plays the dutiful wife, not concerning herself with her husband's affairs. Philo is probably involved. He's a nasty piece of work and could easily see himself as heir to the throne providing he doesn't have to work for it."

The Emperor nodded.

"But there's no evidence against Philo." the Emperor said, "There's stories about his treatment of legitimate slaves but no one gets excited about that. Can you explain why, Flavius?"

"Back home, people expect fair treatment." Flavius said, "They can be harsher on a thief than the courts ever can. They expect their kids to be able to play in the streets without fear of being kidnapped or murdered. If someone is fairly enslaved then they get no sympathy because they've threatened everyone's well being. If someone's properly enslaved then everyone reckons he deserves all that he gets."

"And you're not getting Rome onside?" the Emperor asked.

"No. I'm an outsider and I've got all the power. How do they tell me apart from Septimus?"

"Surely they know you by reputation?" Tiberius said.

"They also know me as Jerry." Flavius said, "It's got me a toehold in a tavern in a district in a city. One or two stall holders have finally approached me about their tax problems and losses but most won't come near unless I send for them. Even if they apply for a bank loan they'll be waiting for the interest rates to start creeping up again."

"And breaking up these boy fights aren't helping?" Prince Tiberius asked.

"They're waiting for me to sit as a magistrate." Flavius said, "How will I handle the kids that come up before me?"

"So we're getting nowhere." the Emperor exclaimed, "A rabble rouser can still destabilise my capital."

"Flavius has always said that it would take time." Prince Tiberius said, "The arrests make the news. Details of the charges can be read out and the investigators can release a lot of details. We don't appear on the news horror struck by what we see. We're remote and friends with the nobles who took part. Is that how you see it, Flavius?"

"That's right." Flavius said, "Cassius and Brutus have done more to break the whole cartel but who cares about closing a bank account. It would make news if they had pocketed the money but even if a proper trust fund is set up then there'll be a suspicion that we're filching a sizeable chunk."

"Any suggestions?" the Emperor asked.

"How about a documentary on the whole operation?" Flavius replied, "Play up the bank raids and the discussions on what to do with the money. We can't release evidence that's central to the prosecution but we can release information on what we've found. There won't be much new stuff but it'll put the whole thing in context. It could play up the problems of dealing with corruption on an Imperial scale and how you're trying to find honest officials."

"We can also play up your part in it." the Emperor said, "Going undercover, putting your life on the line to find the connections. We'll have to find an actor who looks like you and make a dramatisation of it. Interviews with the people you stole from and their responses to the compensation they received should create some 'feel good' reactions. Your boy Luke can give out my official reactions. He can wear a half tunic. His torso will provide more of a 'feel good' factor."

"You're letting it get a theatrical, aren't you?" Prince Tiberius asked.

"The more theatrical the better." the Emperor said, "We'll put out a disclaimer endorsing the content if not the style but we'll make sure that the film crew understands that it's part of the show."

"I don't think my part should be mentioned." Flavius said, "I didn't do that much."

"Enough." the Emperor said, "And we need heroes. You fit the bill nicely. Just keep trying to get the mob to support you."

When Flavius returned to his apartment he recounted events.

"Jamie, Johnny, I want to push things." he said, "How about coming with me to the Golden Eagle? You'll be in Slave of Sparta tunics and we'll spend time in the market. Let's see if the younger kids respond to you."

Jamie and Johnny nodded enthusiastically but Jamie looked at Flavius quizzically.

"Why don't you want David to come?" he asked, "What else are you planning? You going back to being Jerry?"

"No." Flavius said firmly, "It would seem too phoney. I suppose I was thinking of getting into a bit of trouble and letting them see that I could get punished but I don't really want to do it. I've had enough of being beaten. Let's see what you can do, first."

"More likely you don't want to be told off by the Emperor again." Jamie said, "If David doesn't hear about it he can't tell on you."

"Hang on." David exclaimed, "I'm not that much of a grass."

"You are when the Emperor demands it." Flavius said, "It's cool. I don't moan because you're caught between the two of us."

"I've told him that you can go spray graffiti again if it's some sort of a plan but if you just get drunk and piss in an alley, I'll paddle your arse so hard, you won't sit down for a week."

"You're so lucky to be alive." Flavius laughed, "What did he say?"

"That I'm so lucky to be alive." David grinned, "And it's up to me what's acceptable or not."

"OK you head the House of Sparta. What do you say?" Flavius asked.

"That you're itching to hang out with the kids in the market." David replied, "But they're not going to trust you any more than the adults. We've been through all this before, they didn't grow up with you."

"Yes but the Emperor's getting impatient." Flavius said, "No not impatient but he wants things moving. Rome's got to seem calm and settled. There's already senators seeing a chance to take a dig at the reforms. What happens if they claim that my efforts in Rome are a sham."

"I take the point." David said, "Let's see what the terrible twins can do first."

Johnny giggled while Jamie stuck his tongue out. The next day was a Saturday. Flavius planned on doing more assignments in the morning while Johnny and Jamie explored the market. In the afternoon all three would go out together.

It did not work out that way. The first interruption was in the morning when Luciano and Felicio returned from hospital.

Luciano had lost his broken, defeated look. He looked well even though his leg was in plaster. Flavius grinned.

"Feeling better?" he asked.

"Yes thank you sir." Luciano replied, "They kept me in because they were worried about kidney damage but they say I'm fine now. Thank you, sir."

"Call me Flavius." he said, "We'll see about some compensation for getting beaten up while in custody."

It was not easy because of his injured leg but he knelt then kissed Flavius hand.

"I'll call you sir or master." he said determinedly, "I'm at your service and your servant while you're here."

Flavius looked at Felicio.

"And did you enjoy chasing the nurses?" he asked.

Felicio grinned.

"I didn't catch any though." he became serious and continued, "Luciano made a fresh statement. He managed to describe his treatment. Is it true they're still under arrest?"

Flavius nodded, "With three of the loan sharks and Serge under arrest as well and their Colonel in Chief in hiding there's no one to rescue them."

Flavius was conscious of the tavern filling up with people anxious to see Luciano. They listened respectfully as Flavius spoke while Luciano stood ready to obey Flavius.

"Luciano," Flavius said, "You want to serve me. Then here's your first command. Go to the bar and see that all your friends have a drink."

Flavius might be a light drinker but he could appreciate how alcohol drops people's guard. Some sort of a party atmosphere might help.

Just then the bar fell silent as two guards entered with Jamie in between them in handcuffs. There was a dirty smudge on one of the guards uniforms and Jamie was covered in mud. Johnny followed just as muddy together with a gang of equally muddy boys.

I'm looking for His Excellency." the guard called out. Flavius stepped forward.

"This boy claims to be your slave, Your Excellency." the guard said, "He threw a lump of mud at me. I would have caned him on the spot but someone said he was your favourite."

"He's my companion and not my slave." Flavius said, "Jamie did you throw the mud?"

Jamie nodded. He was not frightened but he hoped that Flavius would understand.

"I suggest you bend him over that table and administer the caning." Flavius said. As he spoke he thought he caught the briefest of nods from Jamie.

"Sir?" the guard queried, surprised.

Flavius smiled, "Back home, everyone understands that the law applies equally to everyone, even me. If Jamie earned a punishment then you should administer it. He's not denying that he assaulted you and you should cane him. I just want him to know that I love him for not hiding behind behind our friendship."

Jamie smiled and nodded again but the guard still hesitated.

"Bend over that table Jamie and hold your tunic out of the way." Flavius commanded.

Jamie obeyed instantly and it was still the guard who hesitated.

"You served under Prince Ignatius and he has his favourites?" Flavius asked.

"Yes sir." the guard replied.

"I promise, Jamie is my favourite but it doesn't protect him from punishment if he deserves it." Flavius said, "Give me your cane."

Jamie jumped as the first blow landed. He was crying by the third and screamed as the sixth struck him. Hoping that Jamie did not hate him he lifted the boy and hugged him. Jamie responded by wrapping his arms tight around him and holding him.

"I would have settled for less, sir." the guard said, uncertain what was expected.

"You would have insulted him if you had." Flavius said, "He's not a little child playing games. Never treat him like one."

Flavius felt Jamie hugging him tighter and guessed that he was saying the right things.

"What do you want to do now, Jamie?" Flavius asked.

"There's a coach coming from the palace." Jamie said, "We're going back there to shower and eat in the slave's quarters. Kieran's arranging it."

He looked at the guard, "Sorry about your shirt. I was aiming at that twat of an official."

"Someone explain, please." Flavius said.

"They were playing on a grass patch. Mr. Luvino complained that they did not have permission and they refused to move when he ordered them to."

"I know the sort of thing." Flavius said, "A lot of markets have them. It's a throwback to when livestock was sold and it was for the pens."

"Yes sir." the guard said, "They kept slaves there as well but they're not used any more. It's still district property and they should move if they're instructed."

"No. It's not Imperial land therefore anyone can use it for a legitimate purpose." Flavius said, "Exercising is perfectly acceptable usage. Now I know why Jamie made an issue of it."

Flavius glanced around the bar. Everyone was listening intently.

"If you're heading back that way tell Mr. Luvino that I'd like to see him at 10 o'clock Monday morning."

"Yes sir." the guard said. He looked at Jamie, "Sorry lad. If I'd understood I would have handled it differently."

Jamie smiled, "I wouldn't have. I bet that Mr. Luvino will be sorting that water leak by the end of Monday."

As the guards left Flavius asked, "What's this about a coach?"

"It's what we do back home. We go back to the palace and shower then eat in the slave quarters. There's a big TV in the canteen at the Imperial palace and we're all going to watch the match."

"You can't do that." Flavius exclaimed aghast, "It's the Imperial palace, not my provincial palace."

"Yours is too far away and we wouldn't get there before the match started." Jamie pronounced, "It's only a back entrance and the slaves quarters. Kieran's cleared it and might come down if he's not in too much trouble. Pablo will look after us."

Flavius looked at the group of boys watching them. They eyed him nervously but Flavius was sure that they were watching Jamie's behaviour, his quiet acceptance of a punishment earned, the way he spoke without fear and the way they held each other tight in an affectionate embrace. Flavius might be struggling to get the adults on side but Jamie was succeeding with the younger boys.

"How about another punishment for getting my tunic muddy." Flavius said.

"No. You hugged me so it's your fault." Jamie retorted, "You'll have to cane yourself."

The boys all giggled cheerfully at the exchange. Some of the adults smiled unless Flavius looked at them.

"You'd better wait outside." Flavius grinned, "I'm really going to pound your arse tonight."

"I hope so." Jamie responded cheerfully.

Flavius noticed someone slipping out of the bar only to return a few minutes later offering Flavius a tunic. Dino followed.

"I know it's not what you're used to but it's clean." he said nervously.

"Thank you." Flavius said, "You sell good stuff on your stall. Please let me pay you for it."

The man grinned, "I know your wishes concerning gifts but this is too small to be a bribe or a payment. Please just accept it.

"When you were Jerry you'd have given us a show when you changed." Dino yelled out, "I suppose that's too far beneath you now."

Flavius looked at Dino. He made a good ally except that everyone was as scared of Dino as Flavius himself. The crowd was waiting. He hesitated because the division between slave of the House of Sparta and governor was dangerously blurred. The reforms that had started were still mistrusted. Jamie had suggested other problems. A few approached him with problems and were even cordial to him in the tavern though it was like testing the water, making a move then pulling back to gauge his reaction. Only Dino was consistent once he had got over the shock of discovering who Flavius really was but it was not enough.

Humming a suitable tune Flavius slowly undid the belt holding his pouch and swirled it around a couple of times before throwing it to Dino.

Dino got the idea and crooking the belt over his arm, joined in with the humming and clapping out the rhythm, nudging any one nearby to join in.

As Flavius stood with hands behind his head gyrating his hips in time to the clapping so more joined in. He slid his hands down his sides to lift his tunic before slowly rotating, showing off his legs. Flavius knew what they wanted and was determined to leave it to last. The tunic was loose fitting so he let his hands drift up his torso and chest in a gentle circular movement. Taking one side of the neck he pulled one side of the tunic outwards and down over his shoulder.

It was tighter than he thought so called over one of the onlookers to hold the tunic down while he pulled his arm out. By now the entire bar was clapping and humming as Flavius slipped his other arm out far more easily. He stood with the tunic slid down his chest as he rubbed his nipples.

At that moment the doors burst open and two guards entered dragging a naked, terrified boy in chains along behind them. The humming and clapping faltered but Flavius turned to the guards gyrating his hips. The sergeant stepped forward and slapped Flavius hard on the cheek, sending him sprawling. He turned to his companion as an angry growl spread through the crowd.

"It's just hustlers and rent boys in here." he yelled, "You've brought us to the wrong place, you idiot."

"No sergeant." the soldier replied, "It's the right name and the right street. Maybe His Excellency uses a back room."

"Or maybe he's the whore boy everyone says he is." the sergeant said, "Anyone, where can I find His Excellency, Flavius Aulus?"

"He's laying down for the moment." Dino called out, "Shall I wake him?"

The legionnaire wondered at the laughter that rippled round the bar as the sergeant nodded. They watched as Dino paused to gather up the boy picking himself up from the floor before heading to the back of the bar. It seemed to the junior soldier that Dino was telling the crowd to block the way behind him.

Flavius could stand so Dino knelt and pulled the tunic down and around his ankles before standing and telling Flavius to raise his arms so that he could slip the fresh one on. He then used the old tunic to to dab the blood away from Flavius' cut lip.

Just loud enough for most of the crowd to hear he said, "OK you're Flavius Aulus. You're one of us and we're not going to let that damned guard insult you. Ready?"

Flavius nodded and smiled at Dino who stood with his head bowed. The crowd took the hint, making way for him and bowing as well.

Flavius faced the sergeant.

"I am Flavius Aulus." he said, waiting.

The sergeant got the message, drew himself to attention and saluted. Flavius acknowledged it by a nod of his head.

"I was relaxing with friends." he said, "Since you don't want to be counted in that number you can state your business and go."

"I was told to deliver this boy to you, together with his papers."

"And the bruises?"

"There's no permanent damage. He'll be fit for a nice slow crucifixion, sir." the sergeant said.

"Stealing trainers is hardly a for crucifixion, sergeant." Flavius said softly.

"They're all scum if you ask me." the sergeant said, "And this one's a Balnovi. Look what they do to their own kind."

"Get back to your own province, sergeant. If your legion was attached to me you'd be a private again."

"Yes sir." the sergeant said and marched out.

The private glanced apologetically at Flavius before following his sergeant leaving the boy behind.

"Come here, Enrico." Flavius commanded pulling the boy against him and wrapping his arms around Enrico's chest, "He was due in court for shoplifting. If he was before me that would mean a whipping or a week or two in a labour gang. I've had both so I know what it's like. He's also Septimus Balnovi's grandson but he he was being raised by his other grandparents who are nice people and lived some way from Rome."

Flavius paused before saying very slowly and clearly, "He knew nothing about his father's father and is innocent of the crimes his grandfather committed."

In a normal voice he concluded, "You can see how others treat him because of his grandfather and I don't approve."

"In that case he doesn't need those chains." Dino roared out, "Give him the keys and send him over here Flavius."

Flavius complied and watched as Dino tenderly handled the boy before making him sit in a booth and sitting next to him, his bulk almost hiding the boy.

"It's a pity you can't finish the show, Flavius." Dino said, "You can make up for it by fetching some food and drink for us. What's this?"

Too late Flavius realised that they had sat where he had been sitting and Dino was studying his laptop.

"Why do you put up with him?" someone asked, "He's right. You're one of us but you don't want to put up with all his shit."

"His heart's in the right place." Flavius replied, "Back home I could wander around as a slave and forget that I was governor. Dino understands that and he's the only one here who trusts me. He's well over the top but it's better than the scared silence I get from everyone else."

"I know and I'm as bad." the man said, "I'm beginning to think that you really are different. You'd better get on before you give him an excuse to go for your arse."

"He doesn't need an excuse." Flavius laughed, "It's what he makes of that assignment that worries me."

Flavius was right. Dino knew that anything to do with Flavius was entertainment so even before Flavius returned to the table he was calling out so that everyone could hear, "Flavius, what have I told you about run on sentences. Rework those paragraphs that I've highlighted."

Chapter 15

Flavius was delighted. The sergeant's behaviour towards him had crystallised opinion. Enough had happened to demonstrate that he was consistent in his attitudes and they vaguely understood why he put up with Dino. The big test came when a young man he knew sauntered over.

"I'm in court on Monday. How about getting me off?" he said.

The bar went silent again waiting to see how Flavius would handle him.

"I'm not sitting as a magistrate so I can discuss your case, Jaso." Flavius said, "You're lucky to have bail. If I was hearing your case I'd be thinking of a labour gang for a few weeks helping to tidy up the district. Back home people don't like thieves taking from their neighbours and you'd be safer there."

"So much for you being one of us." the youth sneered, "You're just like the rest."

"No he's not." someone called out, "He's right. That arse of yours must be getting pretty used trying to buy off the guards."

"Germanicus Susitas is magistrate now." someone else yelled, "They say he'll gut you himself if you try to bribe him. You won't be stealing anyone else's pension."

The young man slunk away and out the door.

"Seems that you're getting them on side." Dino said softly.

Flavius looked at Enrico. He seemed calmer and with an empty plate in front of him.

"You were enslaved so that we could look after you." Flavius said, "I'll free you as soon as I can but Dino here is getting busy on his stall and needs help. How do you fancy becoming a goldsmith?"

Enrico stared at Flavius barely understanding then nodded.

"Good. I'll cover his expenses, Dino." Flavius continued, "If you'll just look after him."

"I'll not treat him as a slave." Dino said, "He'll have his own room and decent clothes."

"As long as there's enough brown in them." Flavius said, "If things work out shall we say six months slavery for shoplifting? After that it'll be between you and his grandparents."

"And you if you still own him." Dino retorted.

"I won't interfere." Flavius replied, "Let's see if he can get his life back."

"You're a good lad, Flavius." Dino said.

He might have said more but Nico sidled nervously up.

"I phoned Al." he said, almost proud of his bravery, "And I can go and see him. He said that David says I can go with you."

"I should have offered before, shouldn't I?" Flavius said.

Nico had the good grace to to blush before saying, "You did."

"OK I'm glad that you're more confident with me." Flavius said, "The car'll be here shortly.

Their arrival at the palace was different to anything that Nico expected. The car pulled into a private entrance where they were greeted by a young man dressed in just a white half tunic.

"Hello Mark." Flavius said, "Isn't that Kieran's job?"

"He's in a cell waiting for a whipping." Mark said, "It's his own fault. He let football take over once too often. It was affecting his duties and his schooling."

"Silly boy." Flavius chuckled unsympathetically, "He's not been fired or anything, has he?"

"Oh no!" Mark replied, "And it's only ten lashes. He's in a cell so he can't see the match."

"Now that is cruel." Flavius laughed, "Sorry, we're being rude. Nico this is Mark."

They shook hands as Nico glanced around.

"First time?" Mark asked.

"Yeah." Nico replied, "Aren't there any guards or anything?"

"On the outside of this area." Mark said, "Not in here."

"I thought I'd get searched and my I.D. checked." Nico explained.

"It's a sensitive issue with guests." Mark said, "You've been checked out and on a scale of one to ten you're a four. In other words we'll keep a discreet eye on you but we don't think that you're planning anything."

Nico nodded, uncertainly.

"Everyone seems to have gone down to the slave quarters to see the match." Mark continued. There's the teams from the local league game this morning and the kids that Jamie brought along so there's quite an atmosphere."

Even Flavius was surprised at the scene as they entered. Jamie's friends and the football teams were sitting on the floor. Al, Gus and David were sitting behind them among adult slaves and, Flavius guessed, lower grade free officials in no particular order. Right at the back the Emperor sat flanked by various nobles.

As Flavius watched one of the players on TV took a shot at the goal and the whole crowd was on its feet cheering.

"The empty chair's for you, Nico." Mark called out above the din, "Feel free to join your friends."

As the crowd sat Jamie glanced round, saw Flavius and hurried over. Flavius held out his arms, inviting the boy to leap up to wrap his arms around Flavius shoulders and his legs around his waist. Jamie nodded to the door and Flavius carried him out where it was quieter.

"Are you angry with me for getting into trouble?" Jamie asked.

"Of course not." Flavius exclaimed, "It's not like you though."

"All the kids were saying how I was your favourite and spoilt." Jamie said, "I could do what I liked and nobody would stop me. Well that official was a pompous prat. I really was aiming for him. He'd said something that the space wasn't for the likes of us and I called him a stupid wanker as I threw the mud."

Flavius grinned as Jamie continued, "You know the rest. Everyone's congratulating me for getting you on side and asking me if you really are that fair. I was just thinking about what you said yesterday about getting into trouble."

Flavius kissed him.

"Thank you, Jamie." Flavius said as he kissed him, "I'm just sorry that I caned you."

"I'm not." Jamie said, "I tried to hide it but I got just as hard as when I play with Brutus and Steven. It would have spoilt it if it had looked as if I was enjoying it and it would have spoilt it if you hadn't done it."

"Tomorrow morning, I'm going to stroll around the market in some formal clothes." Flavius said, "It's Sunday so it'll be quiet. I think they'll accept me and it's due to you."

Jamie grinned.

"It sounds as if the match has ended." Flavius continued, "Shall we go back in?"

Jamie nodded but made no move to get down.

"Do you want them to see you all cuddly?" Flavius asked.

"Why not?" Jamie exclaimed, "They saw you tough now they can see us all nice and soft."

"But not for long. You're getting to be a very big little boy."

Jamie giggled happily as Flavius opened the door.

A few stared at them until Jamie slid down to the floor and they saw that Jamie stayed close to Flavius while the older boy kept his arm around Jamie's shoulder.

In his turn, Flavius was looking at Nico. From being scared to enter the district offices he was now in a group talking animatedly to the Emperor. He was close to Gus, Al and David who were joining in just happily but Flavius wondered if Nico realised just who he was talking to.

The Emperor excused himself and strolled over to Flavius smiling contentedly.

"Apparently the Imperial palace isn't completely full of toffs." he chuckled, "I think that you're beginning to get them on side."

"So do I, sir." Flavius said, "It's still only one district but it's a start. I take it Nico didn't recognise you?"

"I don't think so." the Emperor said, "He asked me if I worked for you."

"Whoops." Flavius chuckled, "I hope they're gentle when they tell him. Is Kieran in big trouble?"

"No." the Emperor said, "It's partly my fault. I forgot he was only thirteen years old. I still think it's a good policy to use youngsters who don't know the old ways but like you, they're growing up and have a lot to learn outside of their duties."

Luke, Brutus and Steven were also in the crowd and hurried over as the Emperor moved on.

"Hi," Flavius said, "I dragged you along on this trip and I don't see much of you. You've not even told me about your trip to Mtskheta."

It was fun." Brutus said, "Steven came as Cassius and my slave, and we pretended that this ISS agent was our tutor until we went into the banks. The agent had been briefed and it all went smoothly. You've shown us how to watch out for for agents and there were always a few around but we didn't need them. We didn't see the other groups from Rome either.

"I tell you what was weird. After the bank stuff was done we went to a football match and someone recognised me. We were invited into the directors box to watch and I was asked to change and go down onto the field. I was introduced as the guy opening up football in the Empire and joined in the warm ups. I even did a quick interview."

He grinned, "That's why we stayed so long. They seemed to like me in football gear, doing interviews about football in the Empire and mixing in with their junior teams."

"They liked his sexy body." Steven laughed, "I tell you what though. He was good. It was all a set up because we had a minder who took over if the questions got political or anything. Anyway the minder got separated from us and he got asked whether he approved of slavery."

"I was beginning to think the whole tour was a set up and I was getting fed up with being manipulated." Brutus said, "Now someone else was trying to embarrass me."

Steven continued, "He said that he approved of doing things right and that includes knowing not to ask a political question when everyone else was talking about sport. It got him a cheer. He pointed out that most slaves came from the courts so what should we do with criminals if we don't enslave them?

"The reporter said something about retraining them so that you don't crush the life out of them. Brutus replied that at least he could bring the bring the subject back to sport. He invited the reporter to come back and explain his ideas to his slaves. They might not tackle him so hard if they understood that."

Flavius laughed, "Good for you. Have you been taking lessons from Luke? I take it the ISS was projecting it as the real reason for the visit."

Brutus shrugged, "I don't know. The odd thing was, I didn't see the reporter or the minder again."

At that moment the Emperor strolled over again.

"Little Claudius keeps talking about the bonfire and everyone singing." he said, "Maybe tonight's good night for another. I found a slave who knows about pyrotechnics and he's ordered some fireworks. Let's see if he can put on a display without blowing us all up."

"As long as he wasn't convicted of arson." Jamie giggled.

"It would give Al a clean start." the Emperor smiled, "And I'd be able to have an extended holiday in Capri. Brutus, invite your uncle and suggest he brings Brian along. I'll even let Kieran out. How's that?"

"It sounds good." Flavius said, "By the way, does Nico know who you are yet?"

"Is he the young man you mentioned who's too scared to visit?" the Emperor asked.

"Yes sir." Flavius replied, "I'm just wondering if anyone's told him yet."

"Leave him in ignorance." the Emperor chuckled, "I'm celebrating tonight. We've hit the drug trade hard and reports suggest that the ORA is in chaos. Disrupting illegal trade has thrown more than one of their economies into meltdown. Suddenly King Orga and the Kartlian republic are the strong players and we can do business with both of them."

"That just leaves Prince Ignatius." Flavius said.

"No it doesn't." the Emperor said, "He's finished. It's not only the boy fights. He backed loan sharking in a big way. The parents couldn't pay, kids got sold and just about every legionnaire knows a story or two. It happened to his own legionnaire's families as well, and that destroyed any sense of loyalty to him. If he's got any sense he'll surrender to the ISS and admit to treason. They might leave him a revolver and a bullet after they've questioned him. If the guards get him he'll be lucky to survive the questioning."

"I've seen the TV reports." Flavius said, "What's really striking are the comments about it not being suppressed and suggestions that you're as shocked as everyone else."

"I must do something about comments on my reactions." the Emperor said, "I'll get around to it sometime. I've lost another batch of nobles from the palace as well. I never thought I'd start running out of hangers on but it's nice to know I've got 'em scared."

The following day Flavius and Nico were in a car being driven back to the Golden Eagle. Jamie was with them.

"The Emperor was quite flattered when you said that he was OK for a nob." Flavius smiled.

"I just didn't realise who it was." Nico said, "It didn't seem like the Imperial palace. I was lucky to get away with it."

"You got away with it because you didn't start asking about some plum opening that was becoming available. Things can get very informal when he wants to relax but other times we've got to do it right."

"Like today. You're making this your first formal visit. You get out of the car first. Jamie stands just behind you. He's a slave so he's nothing and separates you from us underlings."

"Unfortunately you're the only underling." Flavius laughed, But you've got the idea. Jamie knows how it works so keep an eye on him. You can call your friends over and chat but they've got to keep behind Jamie and keep pace with us."

"And if you want a word you'll beckon me forward and I should bob my head and drop back when you're finished with me."

"Good." Flavius said, "I am governor and I should be able to behave like it when I need to. David pushed you to help so are you sure?"

Nico nodded, "Even Al is one of 'them' now. You want a local. I'll do my best."

"So much for not going into the district offices." Flavius laughed.

"You're a bad influence, Flavius. You drag me to all these lowlife places."

"We're here. Let's go then." Flavius said as the door was opened for him.

Flavius was surprised at the crowd in the market. Although the heart of any district it was usually quiet at the weekend especially Sunday. Even so by choosing to walk through the market, he would be seen and recognised as governor by as many people as possible.

He was pleased to detect very little fear, considerable curiosity and even some welcoming waves from the children. Luciano stood nearby obviously wanting to greet Flavius. With an almost arrogant click of his fingers he called Nico forward.

"Ask Luciano if wants to walk with you." he commanded.

Nico briefly bowed his head and hurried over. Flavius continued through the gap in the crowd not even looking to see what Luciano was doing. The crowd was watching though and Flavius even detected approval. He stopped at the first stall, waiting.

Suddenly the stallholder's face lit up and he bowed his head. Flavius guessed that Jamie had dropped some sort of hint.

Flavius stepped forward to examine the stall.

"Most of those fabrics come from the Eastern end of the Empire don't they." he asked.

"Yes." the stall holder replied, then obviously glancing at Jamie added, "Your Excellency."

"My mother would like this." Flavius said, "Will you charge tourist or local rates?"

"Oh no, Your Excellency please take what you want."

"You'd go broke if you said that too often." Flavius smiled, "Don't forget the freight charges to send a bolt to my mother's dressmaker. If you can work out the price I'll send Nico round to pay and give you the delivery address."

He called Nico forward again.

"Make sure it's a fair price and that he's got a proper profit out of it." Flavius commanded.

The atmosphere relaxed even more as the crowd heard the exchange. Flavius the governor was still an unknown quantity but they were seeing the same friendliness that Flavius as Jerry the thief had shown them. He was the first noble ever to take an interest in their district and they were were beginning to believe that things might improve.

Flavius was now stopped in front of a shop selling clothes. It was the stallholder who had given him the tunic the day before.

"I'm not fond of shirts and trousers." Flavius said, "I much prefer tunics."

"They're the fashion, Your Excellency." the man said, "If I may say so that jacket you're wearing now is a tight fit. A looser cut may be more comfortable."

"That's another reason, I don't like them." Flavius said, "If I went for a comfortable cut then I'd be told it was baggy and shapeless. Back home I'd wear a toga but some Imperial official suggested that I should look modern."

"Togas always look smart." the stallholder agreed, "But between you and me tailors prefer trousers and shirts. To fit really well they have to be made to measure and in your case, when you grow a little they'll have to be replaced. Tailors do well when adults put on a little weight."

Flavius laughed, "That settles it. I'm sticking to togas. A friend of mine works on the boats and reckons that jeans are warmer and more practical but I don't think even that applies this far south."

The stallholder also laughed, nodding in agreement.

"Will you have the House of Sparta logo stitched onto half a doze of those brown half tunics and deliver them to the Golden Eagle, please?" Flavius asked, "I reckon I can revert to being slave Flavius when I'm off duty now."

"Yes of course, Your Excellency." the stallholder said, "I'll enclose the bill and you can send Nico round when you're ready."

"Thank you." Flavius said as he moved on delighted that the crowd understood how to treat him. Flavius was even beginning to wonder whether he could end his first formal visit in some sort of street party when Jaso suddenly pushed out of the crowd to confront him brandishing a knife.

"So you've got everyone sucking up to you." he yelled, "I know you. You don't give a fuck for us or you'd get me off."

"You're drunk, Jaso." Flavius said quietly, "Go away or I'll have you arrested."

"That's it, just like Balnovi, you'll get the guards to do your dirty work." Jaso shouted, "Not this time."

He lunged. Flavius was ready and stepped sideways colliding with Luciano. Flavius could see that Jaso was off balance and would just keep going. Flavius intended to grab Jaso's arm, hopefully spinning him round completely out of control so that he would crash to the ground. Instead, because of his collision with Luciano he felt a fiery pain against his stomach and he was unable to grab Jaso.

To his surprise he felt fine apart from the pain. He watched as Nico stepped inside Jaso's outstretched arm and felled him with a blow to the solar plexus. Jaso doubled up as he toppled to the ground.

It was as well that guards rushed over because the crowd would have torn Jaso limb from limb. Even as the shock of the unexpected fight faded Flavius felt fine though he stared in alarm at the spreading patch of blood on his clothes.

Nico guided Flavius over to the side of the market yelling for a chair.

"I'm a first aider." someone yelled, "Let me through."

Nico knelt and carefully undid Flavius' clothes. Flavius winced as blood stuck to them pulled on his wound but someone fetched a bowl of water and some cloth so that Nico could dab it all free.

"It's long but not too deep." the medic said, "It'll heal. You should go to Accident and Emergency. Are all your shots up to date?"

Flavius nodded, "Where do you work?"

"On that big site near the Coliseum." the man replied, "It's all sweat shops round here. They ignore Health and Safety like everything else."

"It's hurting more." Flavius groaned, "Can you do anything about it?"

"If you were a workman on the site I'd offer to dress it and say go to hospital. I'd check the dressing each day and if there was any sign of infection I'd send you to hospital. You should go anyway."

"No." Flavius said, "I'll get fussed over enough as it is. Let's see if you'll kill or cure me."

The medic laughed nervously.

"You should see a doctor." he said firmly, "You're staying in the Imperial palace aren't you? Is there a doctor on call?"

Flavius nodded.

"OK If you promise to see him tonight, I'll dress it so that you can get through the day."

"He'll do it." Jamie exclaimed vehemently, "Otherwise I'll get the Emperor to send him to hospital."

The medic stared at the slave standing with tears in his eyes.

"Come here, Jamie." Flavius said, "But gently."

Jamie stood wrapping his arms around Flavius while the the medic dressed the wound.

"That other scar isn't a knife wound is it?" the medic asked.

"No, gunshot." Flavius replied, "I'm not very popular."

"You are with me." Dino roared out, "For the god's sake tell Luciano it wasn't his fault."

"Of course it wasn't." Flavius called out groaning as the wound pulled slightly, "He and Nico are still my entourage so where are they?"

Both young men were pale and Luciano was trembling.

"You crowded in to protect me." Flavius said, "My friends back home would have known better but we do get trained. If you're going to work for me then we'll see about training for you as well."

The two youths stared at him.

"Nico can't go thieving to pad out his casual work and Luciano isn't fit enough for labouring so have you got any better offers?"

Nico grinned, "And you're taking on locals. I am sorry though. We should have looked after you better."

"Where's Jaso." Flavius said, "Would someone fetch him, please?"

"Jamie find his knife and strip him." Flavius commanded when Jaso arrived. He waited as Jamie complied. Jaso stood flanked by two guards with his hands cuffed behind his back. He was sober enough to be terrified.

"It seems we're both going to go around naked today." Flavius said, "But I'll be dressed tomorrow. You attacked me so now I can decide what to do with you. You seem brave enough when you're threatening pensioners or guys younger than you. I wonder how you'd do in a fair fight."

"Fuck you." Jaso cried, "Find a couple of knives and we'll find out."

"OK." Flavius said, "But are you worth keeping alive until I've healed? I said a fair fight not one where I've got to nurse a wound."

"So you are chicken." Jaso sneered.

"No, he's right." Dino called out as he stepped over to a stall and picked up a couple of knives, telling the stall holder to bill Flavius.

"Flavius tell them to release him." Dino called out, "Let's see how he does in a real fight."

Jaso stared wide eyed at Flavius shaking his head. Flavius sensed the attitude of the crowd changing to scorn but it was directed at Jaso.

"You don't want to fight?" Flavius asked.

Jaso shook his head even more violently too scared to speak.

"Dino take those knives back." Flavius called out, "See if you can swap them for a collar, cuffs, gag and short ankle chain."

Dino grinned and complied. As Flavius dismissed the guards Dino summoned a couple of friends and with their assistance fitted the collar before cuffing Jaso's hands behind his neck. He pushed two fingers up Jaso's nose pushing his head back and as Jaso opened his mouth to breathe shoved the gag in. Moments later the ankle chain was fitted.

"Tie the keys around his balls." Flavius commanded. The atmosphere was electric. The whole crowd was silent, watching, wondering what Flavius was planning.

"OK." Flavius said, "You don't want to face up to things then you don't have to. You can leave. I don't know if it ever was a punishment but I saw it in a film. You are to be denied any sort of comfort, help or support in either of my provinces. Neither will anyone offer any sort of protection. I'll give you two chances. In twenty four hours I'll have a slave trader waiting in this market to collect you if you surrender to him and in the meantime if anyone wants to speak on your behalf I'll listen."

Jaso stood staring at Flavius.

"You don't think that anyone in this crowd is going to defy me and release you, do you?" Flavius asked, "I think that's there's a good few who remember your bullying though."

Dino cracked his knuckles glaring at Jaso. Others made equally threatening gestures as Jaso turned looking for an escape.

"There's an alley behind me." Flavius said, "I tell what, I'll see that you get a five minute start."

Jaso looked pleadingly then hobbled off as fast as the chain would permit.

"You know about more than just those pensioners about him, didn't you?" Dino asked.

Flavius nodded.

"I gave you a chance to sort yourself out and you're taking it." Flavius said, "But no one's going to speak up for him or give him a chance, are they?"

"Are you angry with us?" a young boy standing near Jamie asked.

"No, why should I be?" Flavius riposted, "If Jamie carries on standing here looking all miserable then I'm going to put him over my knee and spank him. Why don't you all drag him away and look after him?"

As he spoke he pulled Jamie's head down so that he could kiss him and whispered, "It's an exercise in trust."

Jamie nodded in understanding and joined the other boys and they all hurried off together.

"Does anyone mind if I postpone the rest of the official tour?" Flavius called out.

He raised enough chuckles to satisfy him but just then a car drew up and his friends piled out.

"Nico phoned." David said, "Are you all right?"

"I was." Flavius snapped irritably, "Now I suppose you're all going to fuss."

"He's OK." Brutus laughed, "Where's the medic that patched him up?"

The first aider stepped forward and David handed him a phone and the medic found himself describing Flavius' injury and what he advised.

"So you think he'll be all right." the voice on the phone asked.

"There might not even be a scar." the medic said, "He's tough for a noble."

"If he heard that then you'll be his friend for life." the voice chuckled, "Speak to David about compensation for your efforts but I'd like you to stay with him until we can get him to a doctor."

"My wife's expecting me. We're visiting the in-laws for dinner and I'll be in the doghouse for weeks if we miss the train."

"My office will phone her and there'll be a car at your disposal. Stay with Flavius, please."

The medic turned to David.

"Who was that? He was polite but can he order me to stay with Flavius?" he asked.

"I think so." David replied, "It was the Emperor."

The medic stared, "You sure? He was so polite."

"And it was a polite request which you did not think you could disobey." David smiled.

The medic nodded.

"Don't worry." David said, "Most of the work will be done by his office slave but you'll have a police escort with lights, sirens and everything you need to get you there on time."

"Ye gods." the medic exclaimed, "That'll give the snooty cow something to think about."

"Your mother in law?" David asked.

The medic nodded.

"I'll phone Kieran." David said, "Maybe he could arrange flowers for her and your wife. Just look after Flavius."

The crowd had broken up with a large cluster greeting Gus. Al and Nico were talking animatedly and Flavius was still sitting, content to be ignored for a time, looking cheerfully at the developing chaos. He frowned as the the medic approached and knelt beside him to check the dressing. David guessed that the medic was telling him about the phone call he had received. Flavius laughed cheerfully and seemed to relax allowing the medic to do his work.

Luciano approached David.

"It was my fault." he whispered, "I got in the way."

"You're still alive." David grinned, "So obviously Flavius doesn't think so."

Luciano stared at him and David burst out laughing.

"Sorry." he said, "But your face is a picture. Mistakes happen and Flavius is more concerned about how they're put right. I think he's glad to be out of those clothes and he couldn't give a damn that he's the only one naked because everyone's so relaxed around him now."

"So what should I do?"

"You should be standing behind him. See if he wants a drink or something to eat."

Flavius was just ahead of them. He stood up, collected a white half tunic and headed for a snack bar with tables and chairs put out in front of it. He was not surprised that Jamie hurried over but he wondered who the boy was that Jamie had in tow.

"This is Barry." Jamie explained, "He's Jaso's brother. He needs our help."

"Go on." Flavius said, looking the boy over.

He was about thirteen, thin with a wary look about him. Flavius thought he was in pain though he did not show it.

"Jaso was supposed to look after him and his mother." Jamie said, "There wasn't much and you saw Jaso, he wasn't short of anything."

"Does your mother claim alms or any other benefits?" Flavius asked.

Barry just stared, terrified, before giving a quick shake of the head. Flavius looked around.

"Brutus take Nico and Luciano and go and talk to his mother." Flavius commanded, "Luke take Barry and see that he has a decent meal. David, I'd like the medic to give Barry a look over. Don't worry, Jamie will fetch him if my wound explodes and releases an alien."

David and the crowd laughed as his friends scattered to obey.

The biggest loser of the day was Jaso. As stories of how he treated his family emerged so he he lost any sympathy he might have had. He was in a pitiable state when he emerged from hiding the following day. Flavius put him in a work gang cleaning the market. He rarely got through a day without being beaten, cut by the stones thrown at him or just spat upon.

Barry and his mother spent the night in hospital while doctors checked for internal damage in addition to the bruises from various beatings.

The following day was Monday and, Nico and Luciano learnt how to begin a phone call with, "I'm calling from His Excellency's office and he is very concerned about…" Their first task was to ensure that Barry and his mother received the help that they were entitled to and were found new accommodation away from the apartment that Jaso had wrecked.

The Emperor could order a legion into a futile battle and expect them to die bravely. Like Flavius he expected absolute loyalty from his staff. It was the small things that could cause friction and unrest. The medic's problem with his in-laws was typical. If he had been conscripted into the army and sent to Columbia there would have been no problem but looking after a boy with a minor stab wound could be done by anyone.

Who would believe that he was acting under the direct orders of the Emperor? And that was the key to the question. It should be an honour serving the Emperor but how could it be an honour if no one believed it?

Kieran excelled at providing the answer. Despite childish lapses he was good at his job and understood the boundaries. The Emperor rarely introduced himself allowing people to speak naturally to him. Neither would he intervene in the medic's problem but would cast a benevolent eye over a mere slave serving his betters. The result was the medic accompanied Flavius back to the palace then was shown into a small apartment so that he could bathe and change into clothes provided for him. As David said he not only got a car but an escort to clear the traffic as he drove to pick up his wife on their way to his in-laws. The footman had bouquets for both ladies and a letter for his mother-in-law.

It was on Imperial palace notepaper and simply read, His Excellency Flavius Aulus apologises for any inconvenience caused by Theobald Lansetti's service to him. It was signed by Kieran for the Emperor's office.

It might have been terse but the heading and the tacit Emperor's approval counted for everything. Flavius spoke to Theobald sometime later.

"She's not out of shock yet." he laughed, "She's got the letter framed and hanging on the living room wall. Anyway she's stopped going on how her other daughter married a bank clerk and how well they're doing.

"I'm glad to have been of service." Flavius laughed with him, "You were right, it was a long cut and not very deep. The doctor insisted on some stitches but it shouldn't even leave a scar.

"Some would wear the scar like a gang trophy." Theobald said, "You're not like that which is why I would have preferred you to go straight to hospital."

"I didn't get everyone panicking and you're out from mother-in-laws thumb." Flavius said, "I call that a good result."

"I'm thinking of training to be a nurse." Theobald said, "I don't suppose the Imperial grants cover that, do they."

"Yes they do." Flavius said, "You could go the whole way and become a doctor. They're not taken up enough in districts like this."

"You know why." Theobald said, "You'd have to pay someone to submit the forms for a start."

"it looks like we're going to help each other again." Flavius smiled, "Make the applications and let me monitor your progress."

"Yes, of course." Theobald replied, "Anything I can do to help."

Chapter 16

The day after his stabbing, Flavius was seated in his usual spot in the Golden Eagle. He was sure that, despite everything, Dino would be in checking on his school work. He was wearing a slave of the House of Sparta tunic so he had even less excuse to object and somehow, Dino was comforting.

He did not need to do well at school but it was a challenge. Other boys who knew him knew that he received little special treatment and what he did receive centred around catering for his Imperial duties.

Gus, Nico and Luciano were also there more or less willing to act as servants but that day, a queue rapidly formed wanting to speak with Flavius. Some of the business was easy and all three boys got used to saying that he was calling from the governor's office. Other problems fell into categories such as tax. Again they got used to explaining that the questioner should fill in his return and claim all the protection as an expense and to claim for the last five years.

They worked hard but the queue just got longer. There were questions about benefits and alms which they couldn't answer, complaints about poorly maintained roads and other services that had been neglected. Those people were asked to wait while Flavius completed other duties, namely his school assignments and the Golden Eagle gradually filled.

Completing an assignment, he would pause and look at the notes his assistants were making then continue to the next.

"OK." he said to the waiting crowd, "Some of this is city hall business. It is being dealt with but look how long it's taken for you to even come here to talk to me about it. Now it's all coming at once. I'll need to spend time at City Hall to find out what's happening. If anyone has urgent problems I'll see what I can do and if anyone finds an official obstructive, tell me as well.

"I'm from the Pincius district." someone called out, "There's been a bad smell of gas down my road for months. The gas company won't do anything because they won't pay the protection and the fees for permits."

"Does anyone have a more serious emergency?" Flavius asked, relieved when no one replied, "Well he can come to the front of the queue. Gus, get the details then phone the gas company. Phone the Emperor's office and ask for a cohort of troops then see if you can get a progress report of the investigations in that district. It might be that the gas company is out of date with our activities but arrange the troops anyway to set their minds at rest."

"Yes sir." Gus said, "Will I have to speak with the Emperor?"

"I thought you were used to it by now." Flavius chuckled, "You'll probably speak to Kieran. He'll inform the Emperor that my office has requested them."

Gus nodded and picked up the phone.

With such a large queue, it was a busy day even before Mr. Luvino arrived. Flavius was expecting a fairly typical, pompous self-important man. Instead, he was nervous and reserved, even being pleasantly surprised when Flavius invited him to sit down.

"I was head clerk in the accounts department, sir." he explained, "Then all the investigations started. Most of my superiors resigned or were arrested. Now I'm district manager and I'm lost. I checked up after that encounter with your young friends and they were right. It is public grounds. I didn't know about that leak and I don't know how to provide funds to get it sorted."

"Very well." Flavius said, "Don't knock yourself out about it. I'm demoting you to assistant manager. I know the district officials in my provincial capital pretty well so I'll send for someone to take over as manager."

"Yes sir." Mr. Luvino said, "I'm sorry I failed you."

"You didn't fail me." Flavius snapped, "It's chaotic at the moment and you didn't have the backup you needed. This way you'll have a chance to do a lot more checking up and prepare for when you're promoted again, probably in about six months."

Mr. Luvino stared at him then smiled.

"Yes sir." he said, "And thank you."

Flavius beckoned Nico over.

"I'd like you to go with Mr. Luvino and set up an enquiries desk in the district office. Phone Kieran and see if he can find a slave who can sort out computers and phone."

"A slave, Flavius?" Nico asked.

"A free business manager will intimidate both of you and tell you how it should be done." Flavius said, "I want you to develop your own style based on what we're doing here."

"Some of your slaves can intimidate me." Nico grinned, "But thanks for the chance."

By the end of the week, Flavius considered his job nearly done. He was sure that his reforms were working because a large proportion of those queueing came from other districts. It was no longer appropriate to work from a tavern and Nico's reception desk was ready. Flavius had even caught up with his school work.

Enrico was accepted as Dino's protégé and even he seemed happy. Felicio, Luciano's friend still kept his distance, uncomfortable as Nico and Luciano responded to Flavius friendship.

It was mid afternoon when Flavius' phone rang. It was David and he sounded worried.

"Find a TV and turn to TV Repubica." he commanded.

Flavius complied and listened to the commentator who had already been speaking for a time.

"… the death of the lunatic governor the war in Columbia is all but over. So maybe it's a good time to question the true character of Flavius Aulus who undoubtedly will be given the credit for the victory.

"Despite his supposed stand on the abuse of free boys and his supposed opposition to under age enslavement he has in fact corrupted and enslaved his own free boys. Acting on information received we hope to meet up with them and use this station's power and influence to rescue them. We are standing outside the school that Jamie Carter and Johnny Roseberry attend. If they are not too traumatised by their experiences to respond then we shall begin to learn the truth about Flavius Aulus."

Flavius was more puzzled than worried. Like the rest of the House of Sparta Jamie had joined in while Luke was being trained as Flavius' spokesman and had done some dummy interviews himself. Jamie could also be most forthright and blunt. The question that puzzled Flavius was why a TV reporter would get involved in such a badly researched project.

The interview had begun as school ended and the students were leaving. Flavius watched a surprised Jamie and Johnny being led round to the camera.

"The commentator got into his stride by introducing them then asking, "Jamie do you resent being dragged away from your family to be used as a sex toy."

"Huh?" Jamie stammered, completely thrown by the question.

"Don't worry Jamie." the commentator said, "You're safe. It must have been very difficult for you to find yourself enslaved."

"It was hard enough getting bonded." Jamie said, "Getting enslaved would have been impossible."

"'So you're being abused yet some would class you as a free boy still." the commentator said.

"No I belong to Master Flavius." Jamie replied. Flavius caught the glint in Jamie's eye and began to feel sorry with the interviewer as Jamie continued, "It's not abuse."

"You say yourself that it was traumatic being bonded and being just used for sex."

"No I didn't." Jamie exclaimed, "I said it was difficult persuading Flavius to bond me. It was even harder persuading him that I was ready for sex. What gave you the idea that I was being abused?"

"The information I have is that you were given to him to prevent him from bankrupting your father's business." the interviewer said desperately.

"My father was being threatened by a loan shark and Flavius hates them." Jamie said, "I already loved him and wanted to be bonded to him to be near him. Next time check your facts and and don't trust that sleazy little station you work for."

With that Jamie stomped off followed by Johnny while the interviewer tried to save some face.

"It's always a mistake to forget that prisoners bonding with their captors is a recognised syndrome. Viewers should not be misled by a façade of rudeness and insolence. It is hiding the fact that young Jamie Carter is obviously a disturbed and confused young man."

Flavius phone rang again.

"We underestimated the family idiot." the Emperor said without preamble, "He still got some strings to pull."

"Yes sir. How come they didn't pull the interview?" Flavius asked, "Jamie made mincemeat of them."

The Emperor chuckled, "You know TV Repubica. It's name suggests that it supports a republic. In fact it's financed by the family idiot and his cronies. I reckon they fed the information and Jamie was seen as a soft target because of his age."

"It makes sense." Flavius said.

"Well, censorship is a thorny issue. Our agent could have vetoed the item but it would have allowed everyone to yell cover up. Reverse censorship is a different problem. When he saw how well Jamie was doing our agent made them show it. As you know even so called live broadcasts have a slight delay to allow for genuine foul ups but there wasn't enough time for the station to argue with a direct order."

"That last comment from the interviewer was a bit damaging though, sir." Flavius said.

"Initial response is suggesting that it did them the damage." the Emperor said, "The station's already had one complaint about allowing Jamie to talk like that without giving him a sound whipping so there's no phony sentiment for him."

"OK, but what's the point?" Flavius asked.

"You know the family idiot." the Emperor replied, "He's convinced that I'm so weak that the empire's ready to come crashing down. He's planning something."

"Hang on." Flavius suddenly exclaimed, "What was that about Cantinoli being dead?"

"I'm afraid that was our foul up." the Emperor said, "We should have told you but we wanted you back in the palace before the news was leaked and we dithered about interrupting your last day at the Golden Eagle. Obviously the family idiot's got his own sources and he's still following the plan. I think you'd better get back here fast."

"Yes sir." Flavius said, "Are you expecting something else to happen?"

"You can never tell with the idiot. You're too vulnerable there."

Flavius agreed but he felt no sense of urgency. He sat talking unconcernedly when a new customer entered the tavern. He glanced at the new arrival then started in alarm, recognising Prince Ignatius. Dino noticed and turned to look as Ignatius drew a gun. For a moment the tavern froze then Dino reacted.

He grabbed the table between them and lifted it throwing it towards Flavius so that Flavius was screened by it. Dino threw himself on top.

Ignatius was on his guard enough to be ready for an attack on himself and would have been prepared to shoot someone blocking his line of fire. However Dino had completely covered Flavius and throwing the table had even startled Ignatius as well as providing an effective shield.

It was Gus who recovered next, charging forward to grab Ignatius' arm. Ignatius fired but the bullet struck the wall above Dino's head. Gus was not a trained fighter and was unaware that Ignatius was drawing a knife.

Luciano had followed Gus' lead but he was still hobbling around on a stick. Even as Ignatius swung his knife Luciano was swinging his stick into Ignatius' back. Gus yelled as the knife penetrated and Ignatius just gasped as he dropped both his knife and his gun collapsing to kneel on the ground as the two ISS agents finally reached them.

Like everyone else they were relaxed, not expecting such a dramatic event and leaning against the bar. They had reacted but Gus had just been that little bit faster. Many did not know who they were and looked on surprised as they produced handcuffs and secured Ignatius.

Martin could see the blood spreading from Gus' wound and phoned for an ambulance. One of the guards tapped Dino on the shoulder helping him up and lifting the table off Flavius who was in a bad way. His nose was broken and beginning to swell and blood was seeping from the wound where it had been so suddenly stretched as Flavius' torso was forced back.

"I'm a member of the Imperial family." Prince Ignatius yelled, "Release me at once."

"You're the murdering scum that kills innocent kids." someone called out, "If they do release you I'll kill you myself."

"I'll have you all arrested for threatening me." Prince Ignatius responded though less certainly. Luciano turned to him.

"If these guys are ISS then I'd shut up." he said, "If I'd known who you are I'd have broken your back. I'm still willing to smash your larynx so you've got another reason for keeping quiet."

He stopped relieved to hear the ambulance sirens as he looked towards Gus who was grasping his side as a widening pool of blood seeped through his clothes. The ambulance crew hurried in, taking in the scene then stopped.

"We had this flagged as an emergency." one said, "Knife fights in bars are low priority."

"It was an assassination attempt on His Excellency, Flavius Aulus." Luciano replied, "That guy tackled the killer and the other one is Flavius."

The medic hurried over to Gus indicating that his colleague should look at Flavius. They worked steadily for a time, placing Gus on a stretcher while they tried to stop the bleeding. The medic who had looked at Flavius decided that his injuries were not life threatening, had handed Dino a pad to press on the wound and was helping his colleague.

Flavius looked at Dino and smiled, "Don't save me too often, will you? It's too fucking painful."

Dino studied Flavius carefully, relaxing as he saw Flavius' smile.

"I'm sorry, Your Excellency." he said, "I went too far."

"It's a bit late to start getting all polite." Flavius said, "I know you just reacted and you saved my life.

Flavius groaned with the pain then added, "Enrico, call Luciano over, will you please."

"Will you phone the Emperor's office, please." Flavius asked Luciano, "You should get through to Kieran at this time of day so tell him what's happened. Just say that my wound's weeping a bit and they want a doctor to check the stitches. Oh yes, would he tell the Emperor that I've got to be arrested because I ordered an assault on Prince Ignatius."

Everyone including Prince Ignatius and the ISS agents stared at him.

"Technically it is a crime to assault a member of the Imperial family. This way I can deal with it." Flavius said, then grimaced again, "It hurts too much to talk any more."

The ISS agents bundled Prince Ignatius into a car that had just arrived as Gus was being laid onto a stretcher ready to be carried to the ambulance. A medic nervously approached Flavius.

"Would you prefer a stretcher or would a chair suffice, Your Excellency?" he asked.

"Just Flavius." he replied, "It feels as if something is pulling every time I move. I'd rather not stretch out until I have to. How's Gus?"

"He's losing a lot of blood still. We need to get him to hospital."

Flavius nodded and tried standing, managing to hobble forward.

"Where's that chair?" he gasped, "Let's get Gus to hospital."

The medic breathed a sigh of relief. His colleague was still making Gus comfortable and he had been worried that Flavius would be some spoiled brat of a noble only thinking of his own comfort.

At Flavius' request they shared a room. He was aware that the hospital did not have much sympathy for knife wounds and it was a way of ensuring that Gus got the best possible treatment.

The following morning the doctor attending both of them arrived.

"Mr. Caggerano, has lost a lot of blood." he said, "But he was lucky. Judging by the width of the wound it was a long knife. If it had penetrated any further it would have sliced an artery or an organ and he would have bled to death before the ambulance arrived."

He paused, "You tore a few stitches but it'll be fine. Your nose will be swollen for a time but it should heal without any problem. We're a bit concerned about concussion but plenty of rest and light exercise will cure that. You've both been lucky. I suggest you keep clear of taverns and bar fights in the future."

Flavius looked a little puzzled but nodded, "When can I go home?"

"Tomorrow." the doctor replied, "You can get up if someone is with you and we need to know that your bladder and bowels are working properly. It's just a precaution. You've got some visitors waiting to see you and Mr. Caggerano. You're well enough to see that Mr. Caggerano doesn't get too tired."

As the doctor left he ushered in Kieran, Dino and Luciano.

"Hi guys." Flavius grinned, "I'm surprised to see you, Kieran."

Kieran smiled back.

"He wants me to explain the situation." Kieran said, "Prince Ignatius is still in hiding and no one has seen him. So far as the hospital records are concerned you're the victims of a bar fight. It means that he can't publicly recognise what you did. However, he can get other records changed.

Kieran turned to Dino, "Major Rippini, your rank is fully restored and you are officially retired on full pension following undisclosed undercover work for the ISS. Off the record, finding those other survivors in the wreckage justified your actions but please don't strike your commanding officer again. Luciano and Gus, your records are wiped clean and there are vacancies for you on the Imperial training programmes."

"So what's going to happen to Prince Ignatius?" Luciano asked.

"He's being questioned." Kieran replied, "Let's just say that the longer he takes to answer the questions, the longer he'll live. I saw some of the pictures that the Emperor saw, I hope he dies slow."

"So is this cover up until his questioning is over." Luciano asked.

"No, he's being held under the name of Julius Mobius." Kieran explained, "There's no record of Prince Ignatius being found and it's going to stay that way."

"So there's no argument over a member of the Imperial family being attacked and there's no embarrassing trial." Flavius said.

Kieran nodded.

"There's one more thing, instead of provincial status, Rome's going to be designated Imperial City. It'll rate a Lord High Mayor but not a governor. Germanicus Susitas has been offered the position. The official position is that it would have been insulting to you to make you a mayor instead of a governor but now your work's done you can go home with honour.

"So what about Columbia?" Flavius asked.

"Yes sorry about that." Kieran said, "As you know we've reached the outskirts of Bogotá but we're still some distance from the lunatic's main strongholds. That was the situation yesterday morning. Apparently we captured the family of one of his generals. Rather than fight a losing war and put them at risk he shot the governor. None of the other generals wanted to take over or disagree with the killer so they surrendered. The only condition so far is that we protect their families. The whole war collapsed in an afternoon."

"Why didn't anyone tell me?" Flavius asked.

"We wanted everyone back in the Imperial palace before we made any announcement." Kieran said, "And we were still waiting on the final confirmation. Luke and Mark were going to represent himself and you in a press conference while you waved to the cheering crowds. The palace still hasn't caught up with the electronic age and didn't expect thousands of relieved soldiers phoning their families. We've delayed the official reaction on the grounds that there's still a few pockets of resistance."

"So someone pushed TV Repubica to do that interview and Ignatius to go after me." Flavius said.

"His best guess is that it was Ignatius, Flavius." Kieran said, "He saw it as a last chance to tip the balance. Get Jamie to say something then kill you as a gesture of public outrage at being misled. No one bargained on Jamie's reaction."

"I warned a reporter once before not to take on Jamie. Luckily for him he took my advice." Flavius grinned, "He's been here all night so a nurse made him get some breakfast."

"Anyway we're going to focus on the Columbian victory and the destruction of the Afghanistan links."

"Do you ever get into trouble if you're too informal?" Flavius asked mildly.

Kieran drew himself up almost to attention.

"My apologies, Your Excellency." he said contritely, "His Imperial Majesty sent me because everything's unofficial at the moment. He doesn't expect me to make everything sound like an Imperial edict."

"He's got that right." Flavius smiled, "Relax. You're doing your job and bringing us up to date."

"There's not much more to tell. You'll get a full briefing when you're fit, of course but is Gus awake?"

"He's still doped up with pain killers and the anaesthetic. Flavius explained, "He's listening though."

"He's phoned Gus' grandfather." Kieran said, "Mr. Caggerano swore that only the gods would hear the story from him so the Emperor told him how Gus was really wounded. Mr. Caggerano should be arriving soon."

Jamie arrived while he was speaking. He looked cheerful as he scuttled round to stand beside Flavius' bed and take his hand.

"He's outside now." Jamie said, "He's got a young slave with him. Shall I fetch him."

"I take it the nurses are asking him to wait because there's already a crowd in here." Flavius said, "If there's no other business let Gus have his visitors."

Mr. Caggerano was relaxed as he bowed briefly to Flavius before sitting beside Gus' bed.

"You have lost a lot of blood so don't waste what you have left." he said, "I do not need idle chatter to please me. I've have told you before that I wronged you, as did my son, your father. I cannot change that but I can help another boy who has been abandoned by his family. This boy was sold because of his father's gambling debts. He is intelligent and his school says that he was an excellent student. I have bought him to look after you while you recover. When you no longer need him I shall free him and adopt him after I have adopted you. My will already says that you will succeed me but I wish to make your claim stronger and I wish to help this boy as I should have helped you. It will not ease the pain I've caused you but I hope that you will treat it as a symbol of my regret."

Gus was still groggy and extremely weak but he had understood his grandfather. He opened his hand shifting it slightly towards Mr. Caggerano who gripped it firmly. The effort proved too much for Gus who lay back exhausted. Mr. Caggerano turned to Flavius.

"I wish I could exclude my son from the family but I cannot." he said, "But my will explains the disgrace he has wrought. It seems fitting that as he grows older then he'll be dependent on someone he abandoned. May Apollo speed your recovery as well as Giuseppe. I will not tire him further."

With that Mr. Caggerano left leaving Flavius vaguely surprised by his abruptness.

"Jamie, help the boy." Flavius said, "I think he could do with a friend right now."

Although Flavius was tired, content to spend the day dozing, the next day he felt fine as a car took him to the Imperial palace.

"We should have notified you as soon as the news came through but we were all taken by surprise." the Emperor said. "I was reading a report on the next stage of the advance and General Maximilian was visiting troops at the front. General Maximilian agreed to protect the ringleader's families and the next minute they were surrendering in droves."

The Emperor took a sip of coffee.

"I'm appointing Julius as governor and General Maximilian as military governor." he continued, "Julius is more of a political statement than anything but we'll see what he's learned from you. He and Hans can try to establish a new provincial senate and appoint new magistrates. While he's doing that the province can stay under martial law. When everything's stable I'll promote General Maximilian to Field Marshal and bring him to Rome."

Flavius nodded in agreement.

News of the family idiot's arrest is out." the Emperor exclaimed angrily, "Someone in that damned tavern took pictures on his phone and hawked them around the news agencies. Your involvement is already front page news in Scandinavia."

The Emperor paused again, "We've also got a slight diplomatic problem with Kartli. Their intelligence services have picked up on operations in their territory. They accept that our targets were Roman and not Kartian but they still don't like their country being used as our backyard. We can ignore it but it would go against our new policy of being good neighbours."

"I can see that." Flavius agreed.

"Yesterday we were going to maintain a dignified silence." the Emperor said, "Today I've briefed your boy Luke and he's taking over the press office. It's the usual thing, he can talk to me where the professionals would be too scared. They're planning a series of documentaries on events from Ignatius's first plot to stir up war between us and Scandinavia and on to your next assignment and that's to convalesce in Mtskheta."

"Sir?" Flavius asked, puzzled.

"We're going to leave the impression that the bank operation was carried out with Kartlian knowledge and under their supervision." the Emperor said, "It's partly true though Brutus' sudden popularity was probably a plot to blow their cover but it didn't matter. In fact it helped both sides. Kartli got unofficial recognition that Rome considers her an ally like Scandinavia while we got a much more sympathetic press for our activities against the ORA.

"What I want you to do is follow up Brutus' visit. We'll take the line that Rome has sent it's greatest living hero somewhere where he can convalesce amongst friends without any responsibility."

"I thought you were sending me." Flavius grinned.

"You're young, sexy and successful." the Emperor smiled, "It qualifies you. Find yourself a couple of Kartlian boys and when you're recovered I want you all to visit Bjorn. I could do with some pictures of boys from all three nations being chased up the mast of one of their sailing ships.

"So it's just a propaganda exercise." Flavius said, "I can live with that."

"No, I really want you to rest and have fun." the Emperor said, "You could invite Bjorn and some of your Scandinavian friends to stay with you in Kartli but it's up to you."

There were worse things than for a fifteen year old boy than to be paraded around as a hero. He could spend time with his friends and was under orders to make new ones. Flavius found himself looking forward to the trip. He would turn sixteen while he was away and he would return home ready for his life as provincial governor.

The End