Chapter II

It's almost ironic how quickly the focus has turned. As a Centurion, I stand below the rank of the lord, but he, too, looks my way when Daecius drops. First, I was as important as the rain that poured down the windows, and now I hold the fate of the entire fortress in my hands.

'Get yourself to safety, sir, and I'll make sure Curia doesn't fall,' I say with more confidence than I have. I bow briefly and then leave the room as quickly as possible. I instruct the two guards at the door to escort the lord and advisors to safety, and to fetch a healer for Daecius.

My heart starts beating faster. I don't know if it's because I'm afraid of my downfall, or because I've been waiting for months for rescue. A rescue from the endless squabbling, a rescue from the agonising meetings.

I start to run. I tell the first soldier I meet to sound the bells, to warn the soldiers and the citizens. I rush down the stairs towards the stables. I need to mobilise an army.

In the stables, Lucius, my right-hand man and second in command, is waiting for me. When he sees me coming, he asks why the alarm is sounding.

'The Germans are back. Gather the legions and take them to the outer city walls, speed is our only advantage, so use it.'

Lucius doesn't turn pale like the advisors, he doesn't stiffen. No, he nods and runs off to carry out the orders. You have no use for someone who only confirms your fears, who only shouts how bad the situation is. As a leader, you need someone to support you and criticise your plans. And that's what Lucius is for, that's why he's such a good right-hand man.