‘Aside from a bit of a punch-up with some desert raiders, I was let in on the little arrangement that Scrofa and most of his officers are operating with the caravans from Nabataea. It’s a protection racket, pure and simple. They blackmail the caravan owners into making a payment or let the desert raiders carve them up and make off with their goods. Seems that almost everyone out here is doing business with the enemy. Postumus was kind enough to offer to cut me into the deal. Needless to say I politely declined, tempting as it was.’

‘I bet.’

‘Anyway, I’ve had an idea about how we can put an end to their arrangement. But I have to take command here first, and I’ll need to get in touch with some people in Petra.’

Cato looked at him curiously.’Hardly been here a few days and you’re already in with the locals. I’m impressed.’

‘So you should be.’ Macro looked pleased with himself. ‘Best idea I’ve had in ages, and I can’t wait to see the raiders’ faces when they try it on with the next caravan to pass through our turf.’

Macro carried on smiling and Cato finally gave in.’All right. I’m intrigued. Now would you care to explain your brilliant plan?’

There was a loud knock at the door, and Cato shook his head in frustration as he called out, ‘Come in!’

The door swung open and one of Scrofa’s clerks stepped inside, stiffened his back and saluted.’The prefect sends his compliments, and requires you at headquarters immediately.’

Cato and Macro exchanged a look before the latter responded. ‘All right. We’re coming. Soon as Centurion Cato has finished dressing.’

‘Sir?’ The clerk frowned. ‘I was only instructed to summon you.’

‘Well now you have. And I’ll deal with it from here. Now go.’

‘Yes, sir.’The clerk saluted and turned to leave.

Cato turned to Macro. ‘What’s up?’

‘I imagine Scrofa wants to resolve a confrontation I had with Centurion Postumus while we were out on patrol.’

Cato did not hide his exasperation. ‘Oh, fine. Another fight?’

‘Kind of. Postumus was pretty keen to even the score once we got back to the fort. Looks like he’s trying to do it through official channels. Anyway, I want you there as a witness.’

Prefect Scrofa was not alone when Macro and Cato were shown into his office in the headquarters building. Postumus was standing behind and to one side of his commanding officer.They turned to look at the new arrivals.

‘Not before time,’ Scrofa said harshly. ‘And what is Centurion Cato doing here? I didn’t send for him.’

‘He’s here on my say-so,’ Macro responded. ‘And we came as soon as we got your message.’