I thought I'd write a historical fiction to see how it would turn out. I have put quite a bit of effort and revising into this. Pay close attention though... there are two protagonists in this story, a male and a female, their narratives switch back and
I am the only Roman with the slightest idea of the true meaning for this war, this battle with the Germans. I, Falco, am a renown Senior Tribune of the Roman Army and the charge of five thousand cavalry warriors. The sound of my victories echo throughout the Empire. The swing of my spatha is the subject of children's bedtime stories, and my words are the factor of German fate.
Throughout the years of my rise to power I have learned that only true strength can lead one mans life to glory. Such strength that the very presence of your being throws the will of other men into chaotic spirals. Of course, with such glory has come destruction. I've witnessed the deaths of many of my men, their bodies blue, glistening in the snow like sapphires set in quartz. My memory is flecked with the blood stains on the grass of every field my horse has blessed its hooves.
As of now, the rules of war have changed, leaving me to be the conductor for a grand symphony of evil.
As destiny would grace, I've been ordered on a mission not even the most creative of my men could conceive. Because of this, I've been scaling the frigid Germanic Alps with every man I have. A place more miserable than the hot sands of Carthage and more desolate than the vast woods of Constantinople. All of this in search of nothing more, but a woman. Alexandria... the betrothed of my Commanding General, and the daughter of my tyrannous Emperor. Kidnapped on a sunny day, her party ambushed by Germans on the way to her wedding.
She is a beautiful young damsel with the shining reputation of being the flawless diamond lodged in the dark stone of Rome. Even I know that its her doings, not her fathers, that gives hope to my Roman brothers and sisters. Without her, I predict there will be subtle chaos in the hearts of everyone.
So now I am here... and the cold, wind-swept from the snow, encircles my body. Even my horse shivers at its chill. I look at my side to retrieve all my information from the half-alive German riding next to me, his beaten and tortured body slumping over his horse. We found him spying on the bridle path where Alexandria had been captured, and her escorts murdered. He goes by the peculiar name of "Landtaker". I speak to him in his language, a standard for every Roman aristocrat.
He tells me he swooped in with the German thieves but of course didn't leave with them, having plans to meet them elsewhere. I never asked him of his agenda or those of his comrades, it doesn't matter. Only the whereabouts of Alexandria matter, and if this beast is telling me the truth then we should be less than a day behind her captors. Getting this information wasn't easy, but I got it nonetheless.
I pray to the gods that my men are able of her recapture. Of course, I can imagine her fright, but I also foretell the slaughter through a mass of Germans to get to her... and the thought leaves a vicarious mark of glory on my mind. The reason of capture surely baffles, but what role could she possibly play in Germany?
~
Oaks towered over their venture like giants, their green leaves graced with snow and their edges brimmed with icicles. An empty hillock centered a cradle-like surface between the mountain and its largest peak. After such an exhausting gallop this seemed the best place for a quick rest. The surrounding snow resembled the whitewash of marble, its brightness burned Alexandria's eyes.
She shivered as the cold mountain wind dried her tears. Luckily, her abductor's had given her a cloak of soft doeskin. She hugged it for its warmth, dismounting her horse as they had instructed. She felt the pain from the long journey in her thighs. Her bones ached with the thought of never returning home, never to experience her life of as newlywed. Rome, and all its luxuries became a distant memory. Just yesterday her world was filled with such hope.
The barbarians, twelve of them, were still radiant from their triumph in battle. Hopping around, jeering at each others faults and drowning themselves in wine. Oh how she wished an avalanche would come and sweep them away. Luckily they never handled her roughly, and though they presented ignorance, she could tell by their constant glaring that they were somewhat curious of her. Even now, in her ragged appearance, they would rest a childlike gaze on her features, only to look away when she caught them.
Of course, whether it was her powerful title or her stunning beauty she has distracted men of all ranks her entire life. Her blue and liquid eyes were what first drew the attention of men; a bold gaze of sophistication and will that allured and yet arrested, seducing strangers and yet making them wary. Hers was an attraction of half-girl, half-woman, of insatiable curiosity and infatuating innocence. She bore an Italian beauty, her skin a cross of olive and gold, her hair a silken cascade of black, her lips full, her cheekbones high, and her figure as shapely as a handcrafted hourglass. Some suggested there must be Numidian blood in her dark, exotic looks; others opined Egyptian or Phoenician. It was advantage and burden that she'd learn to use.
She nestled between two large oaks, keeping away from the deep snow; watching and listening as her captors laughed comfortably around their fire. Their boasts of killing her escorts angered her. It seemed to them more important bragging about their victories rather than achieving them. She looked away from their parody and into the surrounding mountains, searching their majesty for confidence. She could only question herself. What do these barbarians want? Where are we going? And most importantly, what are their intentions with me?
Later in the night, the cold and hunger brought her to stand outside their circle. Their silence left her wondering if she had made a mistake.
"Care if I sit among you?" She asked, presenting more confidence than she really had.
"You can sit right here darling!" one of the men insisted humorously as he patted his lap. Their laughter felt humiliating but at least it broke the tension. She then looked to their leader, the one from which the others seemed to orbit.
"You may sit, I'm surprised you haven't asked sooner." The leader spoke.
He waved the men next to him away, and they obeyed zealously. 'Landbringer' they call him. She noticed he was a man of quiet strength, never too loud yet sure of his words. His bearing was of rippled chain mail and the grey leather armor he won in recent battle. Its vest characterized by scrapes from the steel of swords and abrasions from the iron of war hammers. His long brown mane draped his wolf pelt just as the Mediterranean draped her Roman Empire. His face scarred and stern, seated on a strong jaw that tensed when he spoke.
"Don't be shy. We're only a handful of filthy Germans." He said, cheerfully mocking her. His barbaric charm was a relief from the rudeness the others insisted on showing. She watched him carefully as she sat, feeling comforted as she brushed against his shoulder, then scorned herself for it.
"Eat." He stated as he handed her a leg of rabbit meat. She grabbed it softly and ate it fiercely.
"Easy darling, it's not going to run away from you!" Another man jeered.
"Drink." He now held to her a skin of wine. She nabbed several gulps and winced at its repulsive taste.
"Of course its not the quality of your Italian wine, but its grain is more nutritious." She finished the skin off, taking Landbringers' words into consideration.
"Why am I here?" she asked, straightening her back and raising her chin. She felt it was necessary to use such motions to remind them of her status, or former status.
He turned towards her, flustering her assertive spirit with a solemn gaze.
"To help a people favored by gods and nature. To help these people drive away their enslavers." Landbringer raised his hands and waved around at his comrades, as if he were revealing them for the first time. "We are such people. As wild as it may seem, you are our only hope of bringing freedom back to our families." He dropped his hands, anxious for her reply.
She glanced at the rest of them with curious frustration.
"How could I do such things? I have the slightest idea of war, and I could care less about your people!"
"Listen to me, my Roman princess. You have yet to see Germany, yet to experience its many wonders. The lands are untouched, the orange sunlight strikes the fields with a soft golden glow. Brooks and streams lap around god-favored villages, their nourishment brings forth the greenest of trees. Trees that share its branches with the birds and its fruit with the stag. My people here are removed from all cares of the world. Natural and untarnished. Your part in this all you will find in good time."
She couldn't muster a response for such an inquiry. What is he talking about? What part? What could she possibly do? Feelings of hatred left her more homesick, but she couldn't just play along. Or could she? There was hardly much she could do regardless of how she felt, she was their prisoner after all. Maybe she could manipulate them, that is a skill she had mastered through years of aristocracy. But will it work?
She raised her head to meet Landbringer's gaze, making her own means of demanding easier.
"Understanding that I have no choice, I ask for one favor." She leaned back, grounding her elbow and placing her head into her hand. Drawing her chin down to empower her eyes as her hair cradled in the center of her chest, leaving a tendril to cling her lips.
" I ask that wherever I go, I be treated with respect... like a lady, a daughter of Rome." "As you wish."
She could tell Landbringer was much different from the others, though she couldn't see why. It is as if the others despised Landbringer. Throughout the night and until they slept he was detached from the world as well as Alexandria, leaving her to sleep as peaceful as a protected animal. The Romans will come to her rescue later, she knows. For now, she felt matters need to be worked out on her level... after all, there is not much of a choice.
~
My army has now approached a grand peak that protrudes from the mountain like the hind talon of an eagle. Frozen oaks cluster in its center, the sun breaking from its crest and lighting the top of the mist with a platinum fire, like a promise of discovery.
My frontlines have reported to me evidence of activity here. Ashes from a fire, and eleven German bodies surrounding it in a bloody massacre. I pull our accompanying Landtaker off his horse in hopes he can make sense of what happened here. His bushy eyebrows are low and his beard tinted with blood, he looks gloomily at what I present to him. It took a moment, but I could see in his eyes, that these men were his brethren, the captors of Alexandria. He flees from my grip, moving as fast as his broken body will let him, flipping bodies over and pushing aside their frizzy manes to glimpse at their faces. One is still alive...I greet him with a kick.
"What happened here?" I demand.
He looks up at me, his eyes cold, near death.
A rough German word seeps through cracked lips, "Betrayal."
I ponder at this for a moment. What does he mean?
"Where is Alexandria?" He doesn't answer.
I kick him again, this time knocking the frost from his face.
"Where is the woman you stole, tell me German or your friend dies!"
A soldier seizes Landtaker, placing his sword to his throat to better implicate my meaning.
"Landbringer... she is with Landbringer. He has killed us... so he can keep her." His head rolls back into the snow.
"The girl and the glory." His last words.
"Who is Landbringer?" I look at Landtaker with distinct ferocity, nodding to my soldier to remove his sword.
"He is my brother, we are of the Talkan Tribe." Landtaker admits with pride in his voice. As if it matters.
"Why would Landbringer annihilate his own over a woman?"
I look around to see my men are as baffled as I.
"There is a rivalry between the clans of Germany, an everlasting power struggle. All of these dead men around us belonged to separate tribes."
I can tell through his confidence of speech that this Talkan Tribe of his must be the most powerful.
"Why are the clans in conflict? I figure they would have united a long time ago, after our first assault on you bastards."
I know the answer, I just want to hear him say it.
Landtaker drops his gaze in reply, "We are weak. Every clan knows that their needs to be one ruler of Germania, but the problem is, every clan wants to be the one in power."
I walk away without comment. The German has been truthful thus far, and secretly I am thankful of it. I look around, particularly at my men's faces. Solid and grim. They don't want to be here anymore than I do. I give the signal to leave. I could hear the ripple effect of my men turning from their gatherings to remount their horses. Their noise a tremendous roar.
I mount my horse to see the view from up here. I can see down into a valley containing villages, hidden by a damp fog. I try and sense peace in the beauty of the nature around me in hopes to relieve a stress, clear my head for thought. I take a deep breath of mountain air.
I grimace, I know all to well that Alexandria will be used as a trophy, a symbol of great victory. The German Tribes will see hope in such a victory and finally unite, and this Landbringer is most likely to be their new leader. Though I am still indifferent. No matter what unification they can muster they can never stand a chance against the might of Rome. The clouds of our power will rain destruction on their land, I will see to it. In all of matters, at least I know Alexandria is safe.
I turn to Landtaker next to me as he is hoisted onto his horse, "Take to the valley."
He does not answer, just as the other German earlier. Ignorance must be a common thing among these people. To get a good answer you need to use good questioning. I unsheathe my spatha, slashing his arm. The centurions laugh.
"Take me to where Landbringer will bring Alexandria."
He cups his wound, his blood gushing uncontrollably.
"Straight forward, down to the bottom of the mountain path there are several villages of the Talkan Tribe. He'll be there."
I pass the orders, we begin to move.
"I cannot go." Landtaker states to me without fear, though he should.
I turn to look at him just in time to witness the creature slash his own throat. Blood pouring in spurts, a waterfall of guilt mongered suicide. His body shakes, sliding from his saddle into the snow.
"He must have retrieved that knife from one of the bodies." A Centurion mentions, stating the obvious. I look away.
"We must hurry to Alexandria, move on." I order.
Move on. That is all can ever do with my memories of death, I see too many. All I can do is move on.
~
Alexandria held Landbringer's sides firmly as their horse galloped through lush meadows and trotted through shallow brooks. The breeze carried the smell of sage, and the heat from the sun kissed her neck. It was exhilarating to witness such bursts of spring colors whizzing by, especially after scaling that frigid mountain. To the north she could see vast fields of barley rippling in the wind, their encircling ridges tipped with sunlight. A valley dipped into a half circle before reaching a river to her west, cradling several villages in its center. Along the southeast behind her held the mountains that are now a giant border, separating her from her past life.
Landbringers hands were spattered with the blood of his comrades. 'If I didn't kill them they would've killed me.' He mentioned during her gloomy awakening. In a strange way she feels as safe as ever around him, almost taken by him, not especially for his looks but his strength of character. His great confidence in agenda is matched by his skill in execution. His intelligence reached well beyond her expectations of a barbaric warrior.
The horse lowered to a trot before the rough terrain.
"What are your people like?" she asked, a shot in the dark.
"We are a people who live for the moment, without a care for tomorrow. We will drink a barrel of wine for days, while a leak goes unfixed."
He pulls the horse to meet a dirt path leading towards the villages, she could see chimney smoke rising in plumes, illuminated by sunshine.
"Our community is compromised by individual skill, every person works for another without debt. An elder woman will knit a warmer cloak for a man while he builds her a smoother rocking chair... The women are as free as birds. I have seen your Empire and the ways they treat their women. Here a woman can do as she pleases."
This bit of news intrigued her. She remembered her father and her advisors that once controlled her every decision.
"Anything she pleases? What do they do with such freedom?"
"Well, they hunt and they cook. Some even decide to fight as warriors just as the men. They are not bad at all either, they out-shoot the men in archery." He chuckled.
Alexandria smiled at the thought, her childlike wonder begging to experience such quests.
"Are their any awaiting our arrival?"
"Thousands."
"Thousands?"
"Near three-thousand men, women and children coming from tribes all over Germania. They come to the Talkan Village to hear my speech, but it is you they want to see."
"Well I am not very entertaining I assure you." She laughs.
"Don't worry. Your very presence will make them howl like dogs... Listen closely to what I am about to say..." His tone more serious now, his gloved fists tensed as he gripped the reins. "They believe that by possessing you, a Roman Princess, the Gods will bless the unification of our tribes and our prosperity in warfare. Beyond these fields are more Germans than any Roman Commander has ever fathomed, enough to easily stand against a Roman battlefront and win. For decades our only weakness has been foolish pride. Nobody wanted to join their forces in fear of losing their own power. That will all change tonight with our arrival."
"Surely you do not plan on attacking Rome do you?" She couldn't help but ask.
"One thing you will not do is talk to me of Rome."
His blunt statement kept her in quiet wonder. What is he thinking? Why would he desire to attack Rome once he finally had the means to defend Germania? She knew Rome could take care of itself, but she couldn't help but feel anger as they galloped closer towards the village.
Their entry was grand. Men howled as women gossiped, and children darted through legs for a better look. Many were on rooftops, tossing leaves and pedals over their path. Vats of wine combining with damp air spawned a sweet aroma, yet the mass of people and manure of horses contributed a stench. She forced back a smile and welcomed a bushel of mistletoe.
The mob followed them to the end of their trek, to a large rock formation centering a field where Landbringer promised his speech. Waiting for them there were chieftains from every tribe, their faces painted with blues and greens matching the geography of their own villages. He told her of each of the chieftains beforehand. The chieftains wielding swords were the swiftest, their strategy in warfare running circles around others. The chieftains heaving war-hammers relied on the brute strength of their warriors to crush their enemies, while the chieftains bearing bows across their backs used stealth and guile to rain fire on theirs. He knows all this because he has once fought against them, she figures.
Landbringer embraced them one at a time. The last chieftain, the eldest, held to him a prize.
"Today, all the tribes are together in the same place. We thank you. Take this, the battle-axe of Marian, presented to you in hopes of courageous leadership."
He grabbed the axe with a powerful snatch. Its gold glistened in the sun and its rune stones faceted in a spiral pattern.
"Did you forget about me?" She copped.
He hoisted her down with a triumphant laugh and escorted her to the top of the large rock. The crowd of thousands gathered around, cheering as he shouldered his axe.
"Sons and Daughters of Germania, I am Landbringer! Our Priests say the Roman time is over, and so do I! They have never been so weak and we have never been so united! No matter what they have done to us in the past, we stand here today as a free people! What would you do to protect our lands? Our children? Will you fight?" The crowed roared in response, "We have what it takes, we will wash onto their shores as a wave of vengeance, taking back what is rightfully ours, and more! My people, this is an age anew! This is the new Germania!"
Later on, Landbringer had gathered the chieftains to explain actions needed for establishing a cautious defense and a stealthy offense. Plans for building a barracks as well as several encampments among the foothills of the mountains. Cattle needed to be transferred from north to south, and vegetation needed to be harvested early. Blacksmiths and lumberjacks were to be put to work immediately to forge weapons and artillery, and spies were to be sent to the northern border of Rome for gathering intelligence. Reinforcement was needed among the foothills as well. The chieftains promised him three-thousand men before the weeks end and thirty-thousand men throughout the months to come. The priests job were to ensure the safety of their village between now and the arrival of warriors through prayer and sacrifice.
That same night Alexandria was given her own personal quarters, a hut of thatched woodland that grazed the villages' edge along the river. Of course she was not far from Landbringers quarters. She could see him as well as she could see the outlining mountains. Nonetheless she was grateful for the freedom she was given. She has seen with her own eyes how badly prisoners can be treated.
Nightfall blessed a warm, spring darkness across the land, and a woman appeared at Alexandria's door. Her strawberry blonde hair streaked with grey, and her straight, green dress led her resembling a flower. Her mature face told Alexandria she is in mid-life, but her rambunctious smile let her look younger than she really was.
"Can I help you?" Alexandria asked, raising a brow.
"I am Sonya, your new maidservant." She mentioned eagerly.
"I do not need a maidservant." Alexandria stated bluntly, but Sonya came back just as strong.
"Of course you do."
Sonya walked right past her, skimming through her kitchen and nosing around her living quarters. Alexandria felt her patience spread thinly.
"In Rome this would not permit."
Sonya began fluffing pillows, "Rome is far away my lady. You do not have to worry, its not as if I will be stuck in your business all day. I will only stop in from time to time to tidy things up. You are not the only one with a life you know."
Alexandria shrugged, plopping onto a soft cushion.
"What makes you think I have a life... now that I am trapped here. Surely you don't expect me to go into the village as happy as a bird and pretend like I am home do you?" Sonya shrugged back. "All of you young girls are silly, German and Roman alike. Anyone with sense will tell you that your life now entwines with Landbringers. We all see the way he looks at you. Its only a matter of time, the whole village has been talking about it."
"What?" Alexandria could not believe what she heard. "You are all crazy to think I would fall for that man! He is a thief, a traitor, a killer, and a barbarian, and the idea that I care a chickens bottom for him is ridiculous."
Alexandria huffed, puffed and crossed her arms. She could not let this subject go until she got her point across.
"He has abducted me, and threatened all my plans. All my dreams of home, marriage, and children have been carelessly broken by his ruthlessness. I do not give a damn about him or any of you!"
Sonya widened her eyes in mocking shock, now stopping her work to face Alexandria.
"I say you should feel lucky. There are many girls who would give anything to be with Landbringer, and they envy your position."
Of course Alexandria was a bit flattered by that fact, but she couldn't let it get to her.
"The house is clean, you can leave now." She uncrossed her arms, instinctively biting her bottom lip to keep herself from saying more.
Alexandria found herself restless by nighttime. She preferred relaxing on the riverbank instead, gazing into the moonlit hills beyond.
"Beautiful is it not?" Landbringer startled Alexandria as he approached from behind. She gathered her bearings quickly.
"It is no different from Italian countryside." She replied.
Although she knows Germania's features has been haunting her since she first set eyes on its beauty. As if their Gods have been calling her to experience its freedom.
"What of the village?" He asked with sincerity.
"Besides drowning in the mass parody of your followers I have yet to experience it." "Then tomorrow we will experience it together." He halfway smiled before walking away.
~
My cavalrymen have been through worse terrain in past ventures. We have been mounted on our horses for so long might as well be an army of centaurs. I've guided their reins down the cold, steep walls of the mountain. Our weight bellowed as a heavy fog, our hooves pounded its petty cliffs like an avalanche. Now, the frost is melting from our breastplates and the frigid altitude is behind us. I have ordered a halt so the men could relax among the green grass of the foothills, and so I can gather my thoughts of what is to happen next. The smell of cooking and the sound of laughter joined our union for a delightful rest throughout the morning. I could see the hardships of the arctic journey sweetened our fellowship.
I walk down the line of grubbing soldiers. Laughing at their playful jeering and accepting what food they offer. I breathe in deeply. Humbly regarding their praises, giving me a sweet euphoria in return. It's a blessing for any commander when he can walk among his men without rank and still be recognized. Ahead I could see the improvised tent my second in command had unnecessarily built against the mild weather. Its cloth still wet from the snow, flapping in the wind.
As I approached I could hear my dear friend Longinus let out his trademark belch as everyone laughed, knowing they had no chance of topping it. My high crested helmet forced me to duck through the doorway as I emerged beneath to joke roughly with my centurions. Longinus called them to attention.
"No need. I am only here for the company." I exclaim.
Everyone but Longinus reseat themselves, chugging their wine.
"We will find this bitch yet aye?" His harsh word for the Roman princess entices a slight anger, but I let it slide.
"Of course." I pour myself a glass. "The valleys Landtaker spoke of are only half a day due west."
I look past the centurions to speak directly to Longinus, who himself is a junior tribune. Even though he has a rough edge to his personality he is my closest companion in this world of sword and blood. Even when he was a centurion I preferred it for him to fight by my side over any cavalryman. His warrior skills matched mine and outweighed those of any captain. I also find it humorous that he keeps the jewelry of those he slaughters, wearing rings studded with rubies and trinkets inlaid with emeralds over his neck, as a glimmering raiment of glory. His dark blonde hair laid to and fro over his golden armor, an embossed lion representing the beast within covered his breastplate. A matching tattoo graced his neck.
"Than in half a day I shall be knee deep in women and plunder." Longinus foretells, raising his chin while inspecting his sword.
"Not so fast." I finish my glass, "First we must send a forward observer once we are three-quarters through our trek. Even though I have no doubt of an overkill, I would rather know exactly what I'm up against."
Longinus gives me a look of discrepancy, "You are the senior tribune. If it were me I would run them over without thinking twice. Flanking them from all sides so they have no chance of escaping with Alexandria."
The centurions remained silent, listening intently to what their superiors had to say. "Honestly Longinus, you think I would use your tactic? So I could do nothing but spread our mass thin and lose more soldiers." I walk towards him, meeting his eyes with a serious yet familiar gaze. "And about Alexandria... do you really think care for her rescue?"
Longinus laughs. "Of course not, though I have heard she is quite the beauty. I am sure her recapture would be worth all the trouble."
"I know, I have seen her for myself."
Longinus looks slightly surprised. "Really, so you have met her?"
"I didn't say I met her, I seen her... from far away." I seat myself, "When I was a junior tribune I was ordered to take a sentry of foot soldiers to safeguard the travel of an imperial messenger. I was to meet the emperor himself, but he was busy. He left the message with a senator, but it was before we left when I saw Alexandria appear in the doorway..."
"How did she look?"
"She was shockingly beautiful, it was painful to look at her."
Longinus chuckles with me. "I can see why the alliances of many powerful men have been founded on the hopes of her courtship." He changes the subject, "Have you decided what to do with the village?"
"I'll give the men another hour to rest before we advance west."
~
To Alexandria's surprise, Landbringer had introduced her to what seemed a hundred new people by noon. They all were cheerful and they all treated her as if she were one of them. First they visited the northern village which lay along the river, its grassy fieldsbraided with huts and dirt paths.
As they rode, the Germans recalled stories of successful hunts throughout the wood. A circling hawk called to mind some past ventures in falconry, the flashing rump of a deer provoked the story of a great stag and the dart of a rabbit brought to memory the wiles of a fox. Every rock and tree represented some peculiar piece of tribal history, and every dale and hillock told the wanderings of gods and men. Alexandria realized that these people saw the land differently than she did; it was alive to them in ways Romans never considered. Behind the visual world was a second universe of vision and legend that was somehow as real to these barbarians as stone, leaf, and water.
Over the hills and down the half-moon crest they ran into taverns and shops. Their old world architecture succumbed to the beauty of its surrounding gardens. The floristry clutched the huts with sprawling vinery, their colors brought life to the brown of wood and the beige of thatch. She also found interest in their divine shrines that outlined the village past the farms. One shrine hosted a wooden statue of Marian the God of War.
"His sword points south, towards Rome." Landbringer explained to her.
She was all but thrilled by the gesture.
By sunset they arrived at the ceremonial field. The men and women cheered for their arrival. Their shouts of praise and the sight of food they had prepared took Alexandria's breath away.
"I had no idea of a festival." She admitted gleefully.
The tables lined neatly together. Oakwood platters graced with cooked ham and a sheaf of barley, pewter cups brimmed with wine all in neat ranks. Baskets of fruit centered the table as the loaves of bread extended from its half-sphere like pedals. The women had braided their hair and pranced in their finest dresses, while the men strutted in their roughest battle attire. She felt excited by the splendor of an outdoor supper, yet slightly bitter of its origin.
She was seated at the largest table, reserved for Landbringer and the chieftains. The simple food was good, her body ravenous, feeling pleased yet confused as well. How could a barbaric feast taste better than an elaborate banquet? How could a dirty hut seem as comfortable as a Roman mansion? They chatted for a while of simpler things, of the hunt and past chieftains as well as history of their tribes, letting the wine numb their frustration and desire. Soon enough a table of quiet murmuring turned into a wail of jest and laughter.
The sun had set, ending the feast and the games and starting the celebration. Flickering fires encircled the gathering where families and friends chanted and chatted. Landbringer had pulled Alexandria to the side. Sitting relaxed, admiring her features. Her silk tunic floated on her skin, revealing every curve as her hair shined and flowed as it pleased. She looked away and instinctively straightened her body, sensing his lustful infatuation.
"I'm having fun." She stated plainly. She had to remind herself not to trust him too much. "Can you see yourself embracing such events often?" A simple question, yet she shouldn't drop her guard so easily.
"You know I could never belong here. Never belong to you." There. She said it.
"I admire your undying loyalty to Rome, but surely you know they are only embarrassed by your capture."
"That is your presumption only, you know nothing of Rome."
"You are enjoy it here, I can see it in your face."
"Do I have a choice? I've been taken from my home and brought to yours against my will."
"I didn't abduct you, I rescued you, from ambitious men and an arranged marriage. You were as helpless in Rome as you are here, if not more."
Alexandria couldn't respond to that.
"Alexandria..." Landbringer leaned in closer, speaking softer, "You will be treated well here. Tonight, lets not argue... let Rome take care of itself while we drown ourselves in wine and laughter."
She finally brought herself to meet his gaze, and lingered. Her eyes resembled shining sapphires, setting his world ablaze. Landbringer couldn't help but smile, causing her to smile as well.
The night flew by, and the new world around her became familiar. Couples would greet her as they walked by, blessing her with their welcome. The rolling hills and the fields of barley that once trapped her with their vastness, now comforted her with their peace. The silver lining of the mountaintops now seemed so far away, the star studded sky glistened as it roofed their union. She realized she had invited Landbringer into her world just as he did for her. The night felt so magical she could even feel the ground slightly rumble, or could that be from the celebration?
With the heat of the fire warming her face she wondered what would happen if she were ever back in Rome? What would she do? How would she feel and who would she be?
"Come with me Alexandria!" Sonya, her maidservant, appeared. Grabbing Alexandria by the hand and glancing at Landbringer, "Don't worry, I'll bring her right back. I am introducing her to some fine German women."
Landbringer watched as they disappeared into the crowd, and began thinking to himself. Thoughts of Alexandria as well as thoughts of war clouded his drunken mind. How does Alexandria truly feel? And what of Rome? Landtaker should have been back by now with word of their intentions. By now the messengers should have reached their tribes with word of our need for warriors. When will the Romans...
Landbringers' thoughts were interrupted by the growing rumble in the ground. The crowd was silenced by its mystery, curiosity sparked adrenaline. Landbringer immediately recognized its origin. "The Romans are here."
The ambience of relaxation and laughter disfigured into murderous survival instantly. Men unleashed their weapons as women and children scurried to safety. The roar of five-thousand Roman cavalrymen now accompanied the rumble like the marching of gods. Their swords whistled as they split the air, pouring into the village and beheading anyone they came across. Raging horses squeezed into a tight formation, crushing the bones of the opposing. There was a loud splintering of shields and metallic clanging of swords as Roman Cavalry and German infantry met, the screams of skewered men and disemboweled horses became the sounds of bloodied combat.
Falco appeared above the concealing hill, his centurions two ranks deep. Landbringer could see the red of his standards from his position. Clutching his Golden Battleaxe he realized that his men are too unorganized to muster up any sort of worthy defense, and from the looks of the battle they were largely outnumbered. Their best option would be retreating through the northwest to rally their tribes.
"Retreat!"
Chieftains gathered their men and headed for the great black forest. If anyone knew their way through its heavy bush and massive trunks it would be them, but Landbringer wasn't leaving without Alexandria.
"Alexandria!" he called out as he ran across dirt paths into the village.
Women were savagely raped as children were mercilessly gutted. He charged a Roman clutching two women but was interrupted by the sound of hooves pounding closely behind. His arms corded with muscle as he heaved his axe into a backwards spiral, overpowering the Romans sword and spilling his bowels. Two more skidded around a tavern corner, charging towards him with raised swords. Landbringer ducked as he burst through their center, axing a set a hooves and whirling around to catch the other in its rump. The Romans were unwillingly dismounted by their horses and decapitated by fellow Germans.
The background filled with screams and blood as mounts took over the village. His comrades brought him a Roman mount and headed towards the black forest. He grieved at the sight of his people fleeing into the trees, scattering and weaving through its eternal thickness. They would be safe through here, but for how long?
The Romans, bloodied and triumphant, captured the remaining Germans while pillaging what they wanted. The sorrow they'd brought created a low keening, their booty weighting down each warrior like a mule. Some of the prettiest women, sobbing and shocked, stumbled along with them, tied neck to neck by a rope. Only one of the women protested.
"Let me go you scumbag! I am Alexandria! I am Alexandria!"
She was taken into a large ceremonial building she remembered visiting earlier that day. Except this time it was filled with the wails of doomed Germans, all pinned against the wall or being tortured for questioning. She could barely walk as she was escorted into a private room, the horrific sights causing her sickness.
"We will wait here." the soldiers mentioned before standing at attention, as if trying to comfort her.
Candles flickered orange and shadows danced across the rippled thatch. Alexandria rested on her knees, her hands shaky and her world astray. Was all this worth such a violent display? What happened to Landbringer?
Before she could gather her bearings a man burst through the entryway of the room like someone who regards it as his, his black battle cape rippling behind to punctuate his dominance. "Alexandria?"
She watched the man as he made his way towards her, his armor spattered with blood and rank with sweat. His face solid, scarred with warfare.
"I am Falco, Commander of the Lavation Cavalry and protector of Rome." He scanned her body, "You're alive and healthy, I'm surprised."
He kneeled and lightly grabbed her hand, "Rise." and together they rose. "I have been sent for your rescue. Now its just another cold journey and we will be back in Rome."
Her hand slipped from his as he turned to greet a newcomer, his neck and golden armor bearing a lion.
"We have gathered some useful information." The man insisted.
Falco noticed a dying German in the entryway. "What is it?"
"Their tribes have united under a man known as Landbringer, and this Landbringer has plans of attacking Rome."
Falco gave a nod of nonchalance. "He couldn't be serious. Have we captured him?"
Unlike the other men, this one talked to Falco with a familiarity. "No."
Alexandria sighed in relief, drawing curious looks. Falco stunned her with a powerful glare. She may be an emperors daughter, but her strong finesse didn't stand a chance against the raw masculinity Falco so dangerously presented.
"You have spent plenty of time here, surely you know something of their plans... Tell us." Her heart hammered as she realized she was faced with a decision she thought she was sure of. Where does her loyalty lie? Her chest rose and fell with heavy breath, looking away in shame. She knew there were tens of thousands waiting in the north, but should she tell? Which is in the wrong? The Germans who are trying to retake their country? Or the all powerful Romans who win every battle with a swing of their sword?
He turned his broad shoulders towards her, sensing her discreet manner.
"Tell me woman. What do you know?"
Her answer was one she thought never to leave her lips.
"I know nothing."
"Yes you do." His voice carried a fatal edge.
"I know noth..." Alexandria fell back to her knees, sobbing shamefully
Falco turned away, his cape slapping her face, and paced towards the door.
"Have it your way Alexandria. Since you know nothing of his intentions, we will just have to bleed it out of your precious friends."
~
The sun shines in a cloudless sky. I sit in the grass and rotate onto my lap the scabbard holding my own spatha, tapping the weapons polished white hilt with rhythmic fingers. Rumor held that the grip was fashioned from the human bone of some particularly powerful enemy, a tale that I did nothing to satisfy and had, in fact, started myself during a drinking bout through enigmatic hints and dour silences. Now, I know I need a new spatha. One hilted with the bone of a new enemy, this Landbringer. Some arrogance has led him to believe he can successfully cripple the empire. What gives him this arrogance I have yet to find out... maybe he is simply stupid.
I have sacked the village of the Talkan Tribe, and through tactical questioning I have learned that the tribes have united, and their forces may be larger than expected. Of course I have sent an imperial messenger to Rome immediately. The facts are that from here, the southern border of Germania, stretching through the western border towards the northern border like a crescent moon, are a trail of villages. If these villages are attacked quickly, one by one, before having a chance to unite then I will have an easy victory... wiping out the entire German race with five-thousand men. I also have a new tag-along.
As real life has it, Alexandria has turned out to be different than I had imagined. Though I am not quite sure of whom would be so lucky to possess her loyalty, I do believe she has feelings for these dirty people. It seems impossible though... she is Rome... ugh, she is much too young to know what is good for her. All I know is that her presence is a distraction not only to me but to all my men as well. Out of desperation they will peek into her quarters for a tiny glimpse. Its hilarious really, when I catch them they run like adolescent troublemakers. I have decided to take her with us. She has learned of my plans and her feelings towards them I shall care less about.
I hear the village behind me set ablaze, the heat soothes my neck. My men are separated evenly in neat ranks to my left and right, the black forest stands to my front.
I mount my horse.
"This is the war we have all been waiting for." Longinus inquires dutifully.
"Think about it Falco, how much glory we will reap for such a victory."
"Believe me Longinus, I have done nothing but think."
I raised my spatha... and with that we advanced. The pounding of hooves shook the leaves from their trees... whirling them onto the ground of a doomed Germania.
~
Short story by Carter Stelling
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Written on 2007-05-11 at 15:15
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Northbound Glory
"Northbound Glory"I am the only Roman with the slightest idea of the true meaning for this war, this battle with the Germans. I, Falco, am a renown Senior Tribune of the Roman Army and the charge of five thousand cavalry warriors. The sound of my victories echo throughout the Empire. The swing of my spatha is the subject of children's bedtime stories, and my words are the factor of German fate.
Throughout the years of my rise to power I have learned that only true strength can lead one mans life to glory. Such strength that the very presence of your being throws the will of other men into chaotic spirals. Of course, with such glory has come destruction. I've witnessed the deaths of many of my men, their bodies blue, glistening in the snow like sapphires set in quartz. My memory is flecked with the blood stains on the grass of every field my horse has blessed its hooves.
As of now, the rules of war have changed, leaving me to be the conductor for a grand symphony of evil.
As destiny would grace, I've been ordered on a mission not even the most creative of my men could conceive. Because of this, I've been scaling the frigid Germanic Alps with every man I have. A place more miserable than the hot sands of Carthage and more desolate than the vast woods of Constantinople. All of this in search of nothing more, but a woman. Alexandria... the betrothed of my Commanding General, and the daughter of my tyrannous Emperor. Kidnapped on a sunny day, her party ambushed by Germans on the way to her wedding.
She is a beautiful young damsel with the shining reputation of being the flawless diamond lodged in the dark stone of Rome. Even I know that its her doings, not her fathers, that gives hope to my Roman brothers and sisters. Without her, I predict there will be subtle chaos in the hearts of everyone.
So now I am here... and the cold, wind-swept from the snow, encircles my body. Even my horse shivers at its chill. I look at my side to retrieve all my information from the half-alive German riding next to me, his beaten and tortured body slumping over his horse. We found him spying on the bridle path where Alexandria had been captured, and her escorts murdered. He goes by the peculiar name of "Landtaker". I speak to him in his language, a standard for every Roman aristocrat.
He tells me he swooped in with the German thieves but of course didn't leave with them, having plans to meet them elsewhere. I never asked him of his agenda or those of his comrades, it doesn't matter. Only the whereabouts of Alexandria matter, and if this beast is telling me the truth then we should be less than a day behind her captors. Getting this information wasn't easy, but I got it nonetheless.
I pray to the gods that my men are able of her recapture. Of course, I can imagine her fright, but I also foretell the slaughter through a mass of Germans to get to her... and the thought leaves a vicarious mark of glory on my mind. The reason of capture surely baffles, but what role could she possibly play in Germany?
~
Oaks towered over their venture like giants, their green leaves graced with snow and their edges brimmed with icicles. An empty hillock centered a cradle-like surface between the mountain and its largest peak. After such an exhausting gallop this seemed the best place for a quick rest. The surrounding snow resembled the whitewash of marble, its brightness burned Alexandria's eyes.
She shivered as the cold mountain wind dried her tears. Luckily, her abductor's had given her a cloak of soft doeskin. She hugged it for its warmth, dismounting her horse as they had instructed. She felt the pain from the long journey in her thighs. Her bones ached with the thought of never returning home, never to experience her life of as newlywed. Rome, and all its luxuries became a distant memory. Just yesterday her world was filled with such hope.
The barbarians, twelve of them, were still radiant from their triumph in battle. Hopping around, jeering at each others faults and drowning themselves in wine. Oh how she wished an avalanche would come and sweep them away. Luckily they never handled her roughly, and though they presented ignorance, she could tell by their constant glaring that they were somewhat curious of her. Even now, in her ragged appearance, they would rest a childlike gaze on her features, only to look away when she caught them.
Of course, whether it was her powerful title or her stunning beauty she has distracted men of all ranks her entire life. Her blue and liquid eyes were what first drew the attention of men; a bold gaze of sophistication and will that allured and yet arrested, seducing strangers and yet making them wary. Hers was an attraction of half-girl, half-woman, of insatiable curiosity and infatuating innocence. She bore an Italian beauty, her skin a cross of olive and gold, her hair a silken cascade of black, her lips full, her cheekbones high, and her figure as shapely as a handcrafted hourglass. Some suggested there must be Numidian blood in her dark, exotic looks; others opined Egyptian or Phoenician. It was advantage and burden that she'd learn to use.
She nestled between two large oaks, keeping away from the deep snow; watching and listening as her captors laughed comfortably around their fire. Their boasts of killing her escorts angered her. It seemed to them more important bragging about their victories rather than achieving them. She looked away from their parody and into the surrounding mountains, searching their majesty for confidence. She could only question herself. What do these barbarians want? Where are we going? And most importantly, what are their intentions with me?
Later in the night, the cold and hunger brought her to stand outside their circle. Their silence left her wondering if she had made a mistake.
"Care if I sit among you?" She asked, presenting more confidence than she really had.
"You can sit right here darling!" one of the men insisted humorously as he patted his lap. Their laughter felt humiliating but at least it broke the tension. She then looked to their leader, the one from which the others seemed to orbit.
"You may sit, I'm surprised you haven't asked sooner." The leader spoke.
He waved the men next to him away, and they obeyed zealously. 'Landbringer' they call him. She noticed he was a man of quiet strength, never too loud yet sure of his words. His bearing was of rippled chain mail and the grey leather armor he won in recent battle. Its vest characterized by scrapes from the steel of swords and abrasions from the iron of war hammers. His long brown mane draped his wolf pelt just as the Mediterranean draped her Roman Empire. His face scarred and stern, seated on a strong jaw that tensed when he spoke.
"Don't be shy. We're only a handful of filthy Germans." He said, cheerfully mocking her. His barbaric charm was a relief from the rudeness the others insisted on showing. She watched him carefully as she sat, feeling comforted as she brushed against his shoulder, then scorned herself for it.
"Eat." He stated as he handed her a leg of rabbit meat. She grabbed it softly and ate it fiercely.
"Easy darling, it's not going to run away from you!" Another man jeered.
"Drink." He now held to her a skin of wine. She nabbed several gulps and winced at its repulsive taste.
"Of course its not the quality of your Italian wine, but its grain is more nutritious." She finished the skin off, taking Landbringers' words into consideration.
"Why am I here?" she asked, straightening her back and raising her chin. She felt it was necessary to use such motions to remind them of her status, or former status.
He turned towards her, flustering her assertive spirit with a solemn gaze.
"To help a people favored by gods and nature. To help these people drive away their enslavers." Landbringer raised his hands and waved around at his comrades, as if he were revealing them for the first time. "We are such people. As wild as it may seem, you are our only hope of bringing freedom back to our families." He dropped his hands, anxious for her reply.
She glanced at the rest of them with curious frustration.
"How could I do such things? I have the slightest idea of war, and I could care less about your people!"
"Listen to me, my Roman princess. You have yet to see Germany, yet to experience its many wonders. The lands are untouched, the orange sunlight strikes the fields with a soft golden glow. Brooks and streams lap around god-favored villages, their nourishment brings forth the greenest of trees. Trees that share its branches with the birds and its fruit with the stag. My people here are removed from all cares of the world. Natural and untarnished. Your part in this all you will find in good time."
She couldn't muster a response for such an inquiry. What is he talking about? What part? What could she possibly do? Feelings of hatred left her more homesick, but she couldn't just play along. Or could she? There was hardly much she could do regardless of how she felt, she was their prisoner after all. Maybe she could manipulate them, that is a skill she had mastered through years of aristocracy. But will it work?
She raised her head to meet Landbringer's gaze, making her own means of demanding easier.
"Understanding that I have no choice, I ask for one favor." She leaned back, grounding her elbow and placing her head into her hand. Drawing her chin down to empower her eyes as her hair cradled in the center of her chest, leaving a tendril to cling her lips.
" I ask that wherever I go, I be treated with respect... like a lady, a daughter of Rome." "As you wish."
She could tell Landbringer was much different from the others, though she couldn't see why. It is as if the others despised Landbringer. Throughout the night and until they slept he was detached from the world as well as Alexandria, leaving her to sleep as peaceful as a protected animal. The Romans will come to her rescue later, she knows. For now, she felt matters need to be worked out on her level... after all, there is not much of a choice.
~
My army has now approached a grand peak that protrudes from the mountain like the hind talon of an eagle. Frozen oaks cluster in its center, the sun breaking from its crest and lighting the top of the mist with a platinum fire, like a promise of discovery.
My frontlines have reported to me evidence of activity here. Ashes from a fire, and eleven German bodies surrounding it in a bloody massacre. I pull our accompanying Landtaker off his horse in hopes he can make sense of what happened here. His bushy eyebrows are low and his beard tinted with blood, he looks gloomily at what I present to him. It took a moment, but I could see in his eyes, that these men were his brethren, the captors of Alexandria. He flees from my grip, moving as fast as his broken body will let him, flipping bodies over and pushing aside their frizzy manes to glimpse at their faces. One is still alive...I greet him with a kick.
"What happened here?" I demand.
He looks up at me, his eyes cold, near death.
A rough German word seeps through cracked lips, "Betrayal."
I ponder at this for a moment. What does he mean?
"Where is Alexandria?" He doesn't answer.
I kick him again, this time knocking the frost from his face.
"Where is the woman you stole, tell me German or your friend dies!"
A soldier seizes Landtaker, placing his sword to his throat to better implicate my meaning.
"Landbringer... she is with Landbringer. He has killed us... so he can keep her." His head rolls back into the snow.
"The girl and the glory." His last words.
"Who is Landbringer?" I look at Landtaker with distinct ferocity, nodding to my soldier to remove his sword.
"He is my brother, we are of the Talkan Tribe." Landtaker admits with pride in his voice. As if it matters.
"Why would Landbringer annihilate his own over a woman?"
I look around to see my men are as baffled as I.
"There is a rivalry between the clans of Germany, an everlasting power struggle. All of these dead men around us belonged to separate tribes."
I can tell through his confidence of speech that this Talkan Tribe of his must be the most powerful.
"Why are the clans in conflict? I figure they would have united a long time ago, after our first assault on you bastards."
I know the answer, I just want to hear him say it.
Landtaker drops his gaze in reply, "We are weak. Every clan knows that their needs to be one ruler of Germania, but the problem is, every clan wants to be the one in power."
I walk away without comment. The German has been truthful thus far, and secretly I am thankful of it. I look around, particularly at my men's faces. Solid and grim. They don't want to be here anymore than I do. I give the signal to leave. I could hear the ripple effect of my men turning from their gatherings to remount their horses. Their noise a tremendous roar.
I mount my horse to see the view from up here. I can see down into a valley containing villages, hidden by a damp fog. I try and sense peace in the beauty of the nature around me in hopes to relieve a stress, clear my head for thought. I take a deep breath of mountain air.
I grimace, I know all to well that Alexandria will be used as a trophy, a symbol of great victory. The German Tribes will see hope in such a victory and finally unite, and this Landbringer is most likely to be their new leader. Though I am still indifferent. No matter what unification they can muster they can never stand a chance against the might of Rome. The clouds of our power will rain destruction on their land, I will see to it. In all of matters, at least I know Alexandria is safe.
I turn to Landtaker next to me as he is hoisted onto his horse, "Take to the valley."
He does not answer, just as the other German earlier. Ignorance must be a common thing among these people. To get a good answer you need to use good questioning. I unsheathe my spatha, slashing his arm. The centurions laugh.
"Take me to where Landbringer will bring Alexandria."
He cups his wound, his blood gushing uncontrollably.
"Straight forward, down to the bottom of the mountain path there are several villages of the Talkan Tribe. He'll be there."
I pass the orders, we begin to move.
"I cannot go." Landtaker states to me without fear, though he should.
I turn to look at him just in time to witness the creature slash his own throat. Blood pouring in spurts, a waterfall of guilt mongered suicide. His body shakes, sliding from his saddle into the snow.
"He must have retrieved that knife from one of the bodies." A Centurion mentions, stating the obvious. I look away.
"We must hurry to Alexandria, move on." I order.
Move on. That is all can ever do with my memories of death, I see too many. All I can do is move on.
~
Alexandria held Landbringer's sides firmly as their horse galloped through lush meadows and trotted through shallow brooks. The breeze carried the smell of sage, and the heat from the sun kissed her neck. It was exhilarating to witness such bursts of spring colors whizzing by, especially after scaling that frigid mountain. To the north she could see vast fields of barley rippling in the wind, their encircling ridges tipped with sunlight. A valley dipped into a half circle before reaching a river to her west, cradling several villages in its center. Along the southeast behind her held the mountains that are now a giant border, separating her from her past life.
Landbringers hands were spattered with the blood of his comrades. 'If I didn't kill them they would've killed me.' He mentioned during her gloomy awakening. In a strange way she feels as safe as ever around him, almost taken by him, not especially for his looks but his strength of character. His great confidence in agenda is matched by his skill in execution. His intelligence reached well beyond her expectations of a barbaric warrior.
The horse lowered to a trot before the rough terrain.
"What are your people like?" she asked, a shot in the dark.
"We are a people who live for the moment, without a care for tomorrow. We will drink a barrel of wine for days, while a leak goes unfixed."
He pulls the horse to meet a dirt path leading towards the villages, she could see chimney smoke rising in plumes, illuminated by sunshine.
"Our community is compromised by individual skill, every person works for another without debt. An elder woman will knit a warmer cloak for a man while he builds her a smoother rocking chair... The women are as free as birds. I have seen your Empire and the ways they treat their women. Here a woman can do as she pleases."
This bit of news intrigued her. She remembered her father and her advisors that once controlled her every decision.
"Anything she pleases? What do they do with such freedom?"
"Well, they hunt and they cook. Some even decide to fight as warriors just as the men. They are not bad at all either, they out-shoot the men in archery." He chuckled.
Alexandria smiled at the thought, her childlike wonder begging to experience such quests.
"Are their any awaiting our arrival?"
"Thousands."
"Thousands?"
"Near three-thousand men, women and children coming from tribes all over Germania. They come to the Talkan Village to hear my speech, but it is you they want to see."
"Well I am not very entertaining I assure you." She laughs.
"Don't worry. Your very presence will make them howl like dogs... Listen closely to what I am about to say..." His tone more serious now, his gloved fists tensed as he gripped the reins. "They believe that by possessing you, a Roman Princess, the Gods will bless the unification of our tribes and our prosperity in warfare. Beyond these fields are more Germans than any Roman Commander has ever fathomed, enough to easily stand against a Roman battlefront and win. For decades our only weakness has been foolish pride. Nobody wanted to join their forces in fear of losing their own power. That will all change tonight with our arrival."
"Surely you do not plan on attacking Rome do you?" She couldn't help but ask.
"One thing you will not do is talk to me of Rome."
His blunt statement kept her in quiet wonder. What is he thinking? Why would he desire to attack Rome once he finally had the means to defend Germania? She knew Rome could take care of itself, but she couldn't help but feel anger as they galloped closer towards the village.
Their entry was grand. Men howled as women gossiped, and children darted through legs for a better look. Many were on rooftops, tossing leaves and pedals over their path. Vats of wine combining with damp air spawned a sweet aroma, yet the mass of people and manure of horses contributed a stench. She forced back a smile and welcomed a bushel of mistletoe.
The mob followed them to the end of their trek, to a large rock formation centering a field where Landbringer promised his speech. Waiting for them there were chieftains from every tribe, their faces painted with blues and greens matching the geography of their own villages. He told her of each of the chieftains beforehand. The chieftains wielding swords were the swiftest, their strategy in warfare running circles around others. The chieftains heaving war-hammers relied on the brute strength of their warriors to crush their enemies, while the chieftains bearing bows across their backs used stealth and guile to rain fire on theirs. He knows all this because he has once fought against them, she figures.
Landbringer embraced them one at a time. The last chieftain, the eldest, held to him a prize.
"Today, all the tribes are together in the same place. We thank you. Take this, the battle-axe of Marian, presented to you in hopes of courageous leadership."
He grabbed the axe with a powerful snatch. Its gold glistened in the sun and its rune stones faceted in a spiral pattern.
"Did you forget about me?" She copped.
He hoisted her down with a triumphant laugh and escorted her to the top of the large rock. The crowd of thousands gathered around, cheering as he shouldered his axe.
"Sons and Daughters of Germania, I am Landbringer! Our Priests say the Roman time is over, and so do I! They have never been so weak and we have never been so united! No matter what they have done to us in the past, we stand here today as a free people! What would you do to protect our lands? Our children? Will you fight?" The crowed roared in response, "We have what it takes, we will wash onto their shores as a wave of vengeance, taking back what is rightfully ours, and more! My people, this is an age anew! This is the new Germania!"
Later on, Landbringer had gathered the chieftains to explain actions needed for establishing a cautious defense and a stealthy offense. Plans for building a barracks as well as several encampments among the foothills of the mountains. Cattle needed to be transferred from north to south, and vegetation needed to be harvested early. Blacksmiths and lumberjacks were to be put to work immediately to forge weapons and artillery, and spies were to be sent to the northern border of Rome for gathering intelligence. Reinforcement was needed among the foothills as well. The chieftains promised him three-thousand men before the weeks end and thirty-thousand men throughout the months to come. The priests job were to ensure the safety of their village between now and the arrival of warriors through prayer and sacrifice.
That same night Alexandria was given her own personal quarters, a hut of thatched woodland that grazed the villages' edge along the river. Of course she was not far from Landbringers quarters. She could see him as well as she could see the outlining mountains. Nonetheless she was grateful for the freedom she was given. She has seen with her own eyes how badly prisoners can be treated.
Nightfall blessed a warm, spring darkness across the land, and a woman appeared at Alexandria's door. Her strawberry blonde hair streaked with grey, and her straight, green dress led her resembling a flower. Her mature face told Alexandria she is in mid-life, but her rambunctious smile let her look younger than she really was.
"Can I help you?" Alexandria asked, raising a brow.
"I am Sonya, your new maidservant." She mentioned eagerly.
"I do not need a maidservant." Alexandria stated bluntly, but Sonya came back just as strong.
"Of course you do."
Sonya walked right past her, skimming through her kitchen and nosing around her living quarters. Alexandria felt her patience spread thinly.
"In Rome this would not permit."
Sonya began fluffing pillows, "Rome is far away my lady. You do not have to worry, its not as if I will be stuck in your business all day. I will only stop in from time to time to tidy things up. You are not the only one with a life you know."
Alexandria shrugged, plopping onto a soft cushion.
"What makes you think I have a life... now that I am trapped here. Surely you don't expect me to go into the village as happy as a bird and pretend like I am home do you?" Sonya shrugged back. "All of you young girls are silly, German and Roman alike. Anyone with sense will tell you that your life now entwines with Landbringers. We all see the way he looks at you. Its only a matter of time, the whole village has been talking about it."
"What?" Alexandria could not believe what she heard. "You are all crazy to think I would fall for that man! He is a thief, a traitor, a killer, and a barbarian, and the idea that I care a chickens bottom for him is ridiculous."
Alexandria huffed, puffed and crossed her arms. She could not let this subject go until she got her point across.
"He has abducted me, and threatened all my plans. All my dreams of home, marriage, and children have been carelessly broken by his ruthlessness. I do not give a damn about him or any of you!"
Sonya widened her eyes in mocking shock, now stopping her work to face Alexandria.
"I say you should feel lucky. There are many girls who would give anything to be with Landbringer, and they envy your position."
Of course Alexandria was a bit flattered by that fact, but she couldn't let it get to her.
"The house is clean, you can leave now." She uncrossed her arms, instinctively biting her bottom lip to keep herself from saying more.
Alexandria found herself restless by nighttime. She preferred relaxing on the riverbank instead, gazing into the moonlit hills beyond.
"Beautiful is it not?" Landbringer startled Alexandria as he approached from behind. She gathered her bearings quickly.
"It is no different from Italian countryside." She replied.
Although she knows Germania's features has been haunting her since she first set eyes on its beauty. As if their Gods have been calling her to experience its freedom.
"What of the village?" He asked with sincerity.
"Besides drowning in the mass parody of your followers I have yet to experience it." "Then tomorrow we will experience it together." He halfway smiled before walking away.
~
My cavalrymen have been through worse terrain in past ventures. We have been mounted on our horses for so long might as well be an army of centaurs. I've guided their reins down the cold, steep walls of the mountain. Our weight bellowed as a heavy fog, our hooves pounded its petty cliffs like an avalanche. Now, the frost is melting from our breastplates and the frigid altitude is behind us. I have ordered a halt so the men could relax among the green grass of the foothills, and so I can gather my thoughts of what is to happen next. The smell of cooking and the sound of laughter joined our union for a delightful rest throughout the morning. I could see the hardships of the arctic journey sweetened our fellowship.
I walk down the line of grubbing soldiers. Laughing at their playful jeering and accepting what food they offer. I breathe in deeply. Humbly regarding their praises, giving me a sweet euphoria in return. It's a blessing for any commander when he can walk among his men without rank and still be recognized. Ahead I could see the improvised tent my second in command had unnecessarily built against the mild weather. Its cloth still wet from the snow, flapping in the wind.
As I approached I could hear my dear friend Longinus let out his trademark belch as everyone laughed, knowing they had no chance of topping it. My high crested helmet forced me to duck through the doorway as I emerged beneath to joke roughly with my centurions. Longinus called them to attention.
"No need. I am only here for the company." I exclaim.
Everyone but Longinus reseat themselves, chugging their wine.
"We will find this bitch yet aye?" His harsh word for the Roman princess entices a slight anger, but I let it slide.
"Of course." I pour myself a glass. "The valleys Landtaker spoke of are only half a day due west."
I look past the centurions to speak directly to Longinus, who himself is a junior tribune. Even though he has a rough edge to his personality he is my closest companion in this world of sword and blood. Even when he was a centurion I preferred it for him to fight by my side over any cavalryman. His warrior skills matched mine and outweighed those of any captain. I also find it humorous that he keeps the jewelry of those he slaughters, wearing rings studded with rubies and trinkets inlaid with emeralds over his neck, as a glimmering raiment of glory. His dark blonde hair laid to and fro over his golden armor, an embossed lion representing the beast within covered his breastplate. A matching tattoo graced his neck.
"Than in half a day I shall be knee deep in women and plunder." Longinus foretells, raising his chin while inspecting his sword.
"Not so fast." I finish my glass, "First we must send a forward observer once we are three-quarters through our trek. Even though I have no doubt of an overkill, I would rather know exactly what I'm up against."
Longinus gives me a look of discrepancy, "You are the senior tribune. If it were me I would run them over without thinking twice. Flanking them from all sides so they have no chance of escaping with Alexandria."
The centurions remained silent, listening intently to what their superiors had to say. "Honestly Longinus, you think I would use your tactic? So I could do nothing but spread our mass thin and lose more soldiers." I walk towards him, meeting his eyes with a serious yet familiar gaze. "And about Alexandria... do you really think care for her rescue?"
Longinus laughs. "Of course not, though I have heard she is quite the beauty. I am sure her recapture would be worth all the trouble."
"I know, I have seen her for myself."
Longinus looks slightly surprised. "Really, so you have met her?"
"I didn't say I met her, I seen her... from far away." I seat myself, "When I was a junior tribune I was ordered to take a sentry of foot soldiers to safeguard the travel of an imperial messenger. I was to meet the emperor himself, but he was busy. He left the message with a senator, but it was before we left when I saw Alexandria appear in the doorway..."
"How did she look?"
"She was shockingly beautiful, it was painful to look at her."
Longinus chuckles with me. "I can see why the alliances of many powerful men have been founded on the hopes of her courtship." He changes the subject, "Have you decided what to do with the village?"
"I'll give the men another hour to rest before we advance west."
~
To Alexandria's surprise, Landbringer had introduced her to what seemed a hundred new people by noon. They all were cheerful and they all treated her as if she were one of them. First they visited the northern village which lay along the river, its grassy fieldsbraided with huts and dirt paths.
As they rode, the Germans recalled stories of successful hunts throughout the wood. A circling hawk called to mind some past ventures in falconry, the flashing rump of a deer provoked the story of a great stag and the dart of a rabbit brought to memory the wiles of a fox. Every rock and tree represented some peculiar piece of tribal history, and every dale and hillock told the wanderings of gods and men. Alexandria realized that these people saw the land differently than she did; it was alive to them in ways Romans never considered. Behind the visual world was a second universe of vision and legend that was somehow as real to these barbarians as stone, leaf, and water.
Over the hills and down the half-moon crest they ran into taverns and shops. Their old world architecture succumbed to the beauty of its surrounding gardens. The floristry clutched the huts with sprawling vinery, their colors brought life to the brown of wood and the beige of thatch. She also found interest in their divine shrines that outlined the village past the farms. One shrine hosted a wooden statue of Marian the God of War.
"His sword points south, towards Rome." Landbringer explained to her.
She was all but thrilled by the gesture.
By sunset they arrived at the ceremonial field. The men and women cheered for their arrival. Their shouts of praise and the sight of food they had prepared took Alexandria's breath away.
"I had no idea of a festival." She admitted gleefully.
The tables lined neatly together. Oakwood platters graced with cooked ham and a sheaf of barley, pewter cups brimmed with wine all in neat ranks. Baskets of fruit centered the table as the loaves of bread extended from its half-sphere like pedals. The women had braided their hair and pranced in their finest dresses, while the men strutted in their roughest battle attire. She felt excited by the splendor of an outdoor supper, yet slightly bitter of its origin.
She was seated at the largest table, reserved for Landbringer and the chieftains. The simple food was good, her body ravenous, feeling pleased yet confused as well. How could a barbaric feast taste better than an elaborate banquet? How could a dirty hut seem as comfortable as a Roman mansion? They chatted for a while of simpler things, of the hunt and past chieftains as well as history of their tribes, letting the wine numb their frustration and desire. Soon enough a table of quiet murmuring turned into a wail of jest and laughter.
The sun had set, ending the feast and the games and starting the celebration. Flickering fires encircled the gathering where families and friends chanted and chatted. Landbringer had pulled Alexandria to the side. Sitting relaxed, admiring her features. Her silk tunic floated on her skin, revealing every curve as her hair shined and flowed as it pleased. She looked away and instinctively straightened her body, sensing his lustful infatuation.
"I'm having fun." She stated plainly. She had to remind herself not to trust him too much. "Can you see yourself embracing such events often?" A simple question, yet she shouldn't drop her guard so easily.
"You know I could never belong here. Never belong to you." There. She said it.
"I admire your undying loyalty to Rome, but surely you know they are only embarrassed by your capture."
"That is your presumption only, you know nothing of Rome."
"You are enjoy it here, I can see it in your face."
"Do I have a choice? I've been taken from my home and brought to yours against my will."
"I didn't abduct you, I rescued you, from ambitious men and an arranged marriage. You were as helpless in Rome as you are here, if not more."
Alexandria couldn't respond to that.
"Alexandria..." Landbringer leaned in closer, speaking softer, "You will be treated well here. Tonight, lets not argue... let Rome take care of itself while we drown ourselves in wine and laughter."
She finally brought herself to meet his gaze, and lingered. Her eyes resembled shining sapphires, setting his world ablaze. Landbringer couldn't help but smile, causing her to smile as well.
The night flew by, and the new world around her became familiar. Couples would greet her as they walked by, blessing her with their welcome. The rolling hills and the fields of barley that once trapped her with their vastness, now comforted her with their peace. The silver lining of the mountaintops now seemed so far away, the star studded sky glistened as it roofed their union. She realized she had invited Landbringer into her world just as he did for her. The night felt so magical she could even feel the ground slightly rumble, or could that be from the celebration?
With the heat of the fire warming her face she wondered what would happen if she were ever back in Rome? What would she do? How would she feel and who would she be?
"Come with me Alexandria!" Sonya, her maidservant, appeared. Grabbing Alexandria by the hand and glancing at Landbringer, "Don't worry, I'll bring her right back. I am introducing her to some fine German women."
Landbringer watched as they disappeared into the crowd, and began thinking to himself. Thoughts of Alexandria as well as thoughts of war clouded his drunken mind. How does Alexandria truly feel? And what of Rome? Landtaker should have been back by now with word of their intentions. By now the messengers should have reached their tribes with word of our need for warriors. When will the Romans...
Landbringers' thoughts were interrupted by the growing rumble in the ground. The crowd was silenced by its mystery, curiosity sparked adrenaline. Landbringer immediately recognized its origin. "The Romans are here."
The ambience of relaxation and laughter disfigured into murderous survival instantly. Men unleashed their weapons as women and children scurried to safety. The roar of five-thousand Roman cavalrymen now accompanied the rumble like the marching of gods. Their swords whistled as they split the air, pouring into the village and beheading anyone they came across. Raging horses squeezed into a tight formation, crushing the bones of the opposing. There was a loud splintering of shields and metallic clanging of swords as Roman Cavalry and German infantry met, the screams of skewered men and disemboweled horses became the sounds of bloodied combat.
Falco appeared above the concealing hill, his centurions two ranks deep. Landbringer could see the red of his standards from his position. Clutching his Golden Battleaxe he realized that his men are too unorganized to muster up any sort of worthy defense, and from the looks of the battle they were largely outnumbered. Their best option would be retreating through the northwest to rally their tribes.
"Retreat!"
Chieftains gathered their men and headed for the great black forest. If anyone knew their way through its heavy bush and massive trunks it would be them, but Landbringer wasn't leaving without Alexandria.
"Alexandria!" he called out as he ran across dirt paths into the village.
Women were savagely raped as children were mercilessly gutted. He charged a Roman clutching two women but was interrupted by the sound of hooves pounding closely behind. His arms corded with muscle as he heaved his axe into a backwards spiral, overpowering the Romans sword and spilling his bowels. Two more skidded around a tavern corner, charging towards him with raised swords. Landbringer ducked as he burst through their center, axing a set a hooves and whirling around to catch the other in its rump. The Romans were unwillingly dismounted by their horses and decapitated by fellow Germans.
The background filled with screams and blood as mounts took over the village. His comrades brought him a Roman mount and headed towards the black forest. He grieved at the sight of his people fleeing into the trees, scattering and weaving through its eternal thickness. They would be safe through here, but for how long?
The Romans, bloodied and triumphant, captured the remaining Germans while pillaging what they wanted. The sorrow they'd brought created a low keening, their booty weighting down each warrior like a mule. Some of the prettiest women, sobbing and shocked, stumbled along with them, tied neck to neck by a rope. Only one of the women protested.
"Let me go you scumbag! I am Alexandria! I am Alexandria!"
She was taken into a large ceremonial building she remembered visiting earlier that day. Except this time it was filled with the wails of doomed Germans, all pinned against the wall or being tortured for questioning. She could barely walk as she was escorted into a private room, the horrific sights causing her sickness.
"We will wait here." the soldiers mentioned before standing at attention, as if trying to comfort her.
Candles flickered orange and shadows danced across the rippled thatch. Alexandria rested on her knees, her hands shaky and her world astray. Was all this worth such a violent display? What happened to Landbringer?
Before she could gather her bearings a man burst through the entryway of the room like someone who regards it as his, his black battle cape rippling behind to punctuate his dominance. "Alexandria?"
She watched the man as he made his way towards her, his armor spattered with blood and rank with sweat. His face solid, scarred with warfare.
"I am Falco, Commander of the Lavation Cavalry and protector of Rome." He scanned her body, "You're alive and healthy, I'm surprised."
He kneeled and lightly grabbed her hand, "Rise." and together they rose. "I have been sent for your rescue. Now its just another cold journey and we will be back in Rome."
Her hand slipped from his as he turned to greet a newcomer, his neck and golden armor bearing a lion.
"We have gathered some useful information." The man insisted.
Falco noticed a dying German in the entryway. "What is it?"
"Their tribes have united under a man known as Landbringer, and this Landbringer has plans of attacking Rome."
Falco gave a nod of nonchalance. "He couldn't be serious. Have we captured him?"
Unlike the other men, this one talked to Falco with a familiarity. "No."
Alexandria sighed in relief, drawing curious looks. Falco stunned her with a powerful glare. She may be an emperors daughter, but her strong finesse didn't stand a chance against the raw masculinity Falco so dangerously presented.
"You have spent plenty of time here, surely you know something of their plans... Tell us." Her heart hammered as she realized she was faced with a decision she thought she was sure of. Where does her loyalty lie? Her chest rose and fell with heavy breath, looking away in shame. She knew there were tens of thousands waiting in the north, but should she tell? Which is in the wrong? The Germans who are trying to retake their country? Or the all powerful Romans who win every battle with a swing of their sword?
He turned his broad shoulders towards her, sensing her discreet manner.
"Tell me woman. What do you know?"
Her answer was one she thought never to leave her lips.
"I know nothing."
"Yes you do." His voice carried a fatal edge.
"I know noth..." Alexandria fell back to her knees, sobbing shamefully
Falco turned away, his cape slapping her face, and paced towards the door.
"Have it your way Alexandria. Since you know nothing of his intentions, we will just have to bleed it out of your precious friends."
~
The sun shines in a cloudless sky. I sit in the grass and rotate onto my lap the scabbard holding my own spatha, tapping the weapons polished white hilt with rhythmic fingers. Rumor held that the grip was fashioned from the human bone of some particularly powerful enemy, a tale that I did nothing to satisfy and had, in fact, started myself during a drinking bout through enigmatic hints and dour silences. Now, I know I need a new spatha. One hilted with the bone of a new enemy, this Landbringer. Some arrogance has led him to believe he can successfully cripple the empire. What gives him this arrogance I have yet to find out... maybe he is simply stupid.
I have sacked the village of the Talkan Tribe, and through tactical questioning I have learned that the tribes have united, and their forces may be larger than expected. Of course I have sent an imperial messenger to Rome immediately. The facts are that from here, the southern border of Germania, stretching through the western border towards the northern border like a crescent moon, are a trail of villages. If these villages are attacked quickly, one by one, before having a chance to unite then I will have an easy victory... wiping out the entire German race with five-thousand men. I also have a new tag-along.
As real life has it, Alexandria has turned out to be different than I had imagined. Though I am not quite sure of whom would be so lucky to possess her loyalty, I do believe she has feelings for these dirty people. It seems impossible though... she is Rome... ugh, she is much too young to know what is good for her. All I know is that her presence is a distraction not only to me but to all my men as well. Out of desperation they will peek into her quarters for a tiny glimpse. Its hilarious really, when I catch them they run like adolescent troublemakers. I have decided to take her with us. She has learned of my plans and her feelings towards them I shall care less about.
I hear the village behind me set ablaze, the heat soothes my neck. My men are separated evenly in neat ranks to my left and right, the black forest stands to my front.
I mount my horse.
"This is the war we have all been waiting for." Longinus inquires dutifully.
"Think about it Falco, how much glory we will reap for such a victory."
"Believe me Longinus, I have done nothing but think."
I raised my spatha... and with that we advanced. The pounding of hooves shook the leaves from their trees... whirling them onto the ground of a doomed Germania.
~
Short story by Carter Stelling
Read 667 times
Written on 2007-05-11 at 15:15
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