‘Yes, master.’

Caesar turned back to Clodius. ‘I wish I knew precisely what I am up against. If this man, Brixus, is an escaped gladiator, then he will be a dangerous opponent. Even more dangerous if there is any truth to this rumour about the son of Spartacus joining forces with Brixus. If it’s true, then the son must be found as soon as possible. Found, and then eliminated. Every slave in the empire must be made to realize that Rome never rests until its enemies are completely and utterly crushed.’

‘Yes, Caesar. I will see to it.’ Clodius nodded.

‘I also expect that you will look after my interests here in Rome in my absence. I will expect regular reports of the proceedings of the Senate.’

‘Don’t worry. I will. Now I’d better leave you to your preparations.’

‘Farewell, my friend.’ Caesar smiled as he clasped the younger man’s arm.

Clodius smiled back and then turned to leave the house. Once the door had closed behind him, Caesar’s smile faded and he shook his head as he muttered, ‘Thank the Gods that he isn’t the only supporter I can rely on.’

Marcus could not help nodding in agreement and Caesar’s eagle eye caught his gesture.

‘So, you share my opinion of Clodius? That is good. I have always known I could rely on your sound judgement, my bay.

‘Yes, master.’

‘Well then, we are about to face a new adventure, Marcus. You may have fought in the arena, and on the streets of Rome, but this will be your first campaign, maybe even your first real battle. I expect that you are looking forward to it, eh?’

Marcus forced himself to nod and Caesar punched him lightly on the shoulder.

‘Just as I thought. You’re a natural warrior through and through.' His expression became serious. ‘I meant what I said about needing any advice you can give me... Now go and pack your kit and get an early night. We’ve got a long, uncomfortable ride ahead of us. Crossing the Apennines in winter is not easy.’

‘I’ll make sure that I pack some warm clothes, master,’ said Marcus.

‘Good. At least there’s one thing to look forward to. My niece will be with her new husband at Ariminum. He’s serving with the Tenth legion. I’m sure that Portia will be glad to see you again.’

‘I hope so,’ Marcus answered with feeling. She was one of the few people he had come to regard as a friend since arriving in Rome and he had missed her when she left Caesar’s household to marry the nephew of General Pompeius, one of Caesar’s closest allies. Together with Crassus, they were the three most powerful men in all Rome. It was an uneasy alliance, as Marcus knew only too well after having foiled a plot against his master by Crassus. A plot that had involved Decimus and his henchman, Thermon, the man who had murdered Titus and kidnapped Marcus and his mother. There would be a reckoning one day, Marcus vowed. The blood of Thermon and Decimus would run from his blade.