Crassus hid his anger. Always they saw him as the merchant, the lender, as if there were some great secret to the legions that only the chosen few could understand. As if there were some shame to his wealth. He could see Pompey was desperate not to lose this victory. How awful it would be if lowly Crassus stole it from under him! Whoever broke the rebellion would be the next consul, he was sure. How could the Senate resist the will of the people after so many months of fear? Not for the first time, Crassus felt regret at his generosity in choosing Pompey in the Senate debate. If he had known then how the campaign would go, he would have risked it alone.

“I will herd them south,” he said, and Pompey nodded, satisfied. He lifted another of the dispatches from the table and showed it to Crassus, angling it into the light. As Crassus read, Pompey stood and pointed to the map.

“Those reports of a fleet can only be for the slaves. I’d stay if I wasn’t sure they will keep moving, but as long as you don’t provoke them, they should head south to meet the ships. I’ll call in the galleys against them. There will be no escape by sea, I swear it.”

“If that’s what they intend,” Crassus muttered, still reading.

“They cannot run forever. They must be starving, no matter what they’ve found to scavenge. Every day weakens them if they’re hoping to bring us to another battle. No, they’re trying to escape and those reports are the key to it.”

“And when they see our galleys gathering to prevent it, you’ll ride up with the Greek legions to finish them?” Crassus asked, some of the bile he felt creeping into his tone.

“I will,” Pompey replied sharply. “Do not take the threat lightly, Crassus. If we lose now, we lose everything. We need the extra legions I will bring. Do not join in battle until you see my flags. I’d rather see you retreat than be routed before I arrive.”

“Very well,” Crassus replied, stung by the casual dismissal of his abilities. If Spartacus attacked while Pompey was away, the moment would be his to seize, and the glory with it. “I know you will come as quickly as you can,” he said.

Pompey sagged slightly, resting his knuckles on the table. “There is another matter. I’m leaving immediately for the city and I don’t know if I should keep it to myself until we’re finished here or not.”

“Tell me,” Crassus said, softly.

*                                                      *                                                      *