‘Quite.’ Verica nodded. ‘With all deference to your word, Mendacus, I know that many of our finest warriors take a dim view of our alliance with Rome, as do many of our subjects on the streets of Calleva. I’m old. I’m not stupid. I know what people are saying. I know that there are some nobles who are already plotting to overthrow me. It would be strange if there weren’t, and I fear it’s only a matter of time before they take the chance to put their plans into action. Who knows how many of our warriors would follow their lead? But if I join with Caratacus, would my own position be any more secure? I doubt it . . .’

Mendacus made to speak but Verica raised his hand to stop him. ‘Don’t. Don’t say another word about the loyalty of my subjects.’

Mendacus opened his mouth, then good sense got the better of sycophancy and he closed it with as much dignity as he could, and heaved his shoulders in a quick shrug of resignation as the king continued.

‘I think the course I must take has become clearer to me tonight, my lords. It would seem that maintaining our alliance with Rome best serves the needs of our people. For the present, then, we play as full a part as we can in aiding the Emperor, and his legions.’

‘And what of those people who oppose the alliance, sire?’ asked Tincommius.

‘The time has come to show them the cost of defying my decisions.’

‘Why do harm to them, sire? Surely they’re a small minority. Small enough for us to ignore.’

‘No opposition to a king is ever small enough to ignore!’ Verica snapped. ‘I’ve learned that to my cost once already. No, I’ve made the decision, and we must brook no opposition. I offered my opponents peace on good terms last time. If I allowed opposition to thrive, to the smallest degree, I would look weak this time, not merciful. I need to show General Plautius that the Atrebatans are utterly loyal to Rome. I need to show my people what will become of them if they ever defy me.’

‘How will you do that, sire?’ asked Tincommius. ‘How can you?’

‘A little demonstration is called for tonight, at the end of the feast. I have an idea. Once it’s done then I can assure you it will be a very brave man indeed who even thinks about defying me and my authority.’

04 The Eagle and the Wolves

Chapter Fourteen

‘What do you think?’