‘Ooh, that’s nasty,’ Vindex said and the Germans laughed again, but this time they were amused rather than scornful and they made squealing noises as if the target were a real man hit in the crotch. Gannascus came over and pounded the centurion on the shoulder in delight. The blow added to the ache in his arms and the sense that his ribs had almost been pulled apart.

‘Now show us what you can do with a sword,’ the big German demanded and to Ferox’s surprise they produced wooden swords and heavy wickerwork shields. As he hefted the training equipment he could see that they were not army issue, but close copies. Gannascus’ warriors were used to handling them, and to simple versions of the standard drills, and he guessed that the deserters recruited by the high king had brought with them ideas as well as their own weapons.

The Germans were good – not up to the level of a truly well-trained unit, but still better than he had expected, at least when they fought as individuals. He put his first opponent down quickly, surprising him with an immediate attack that knocked him off balance. The second man did better, but kept his shield too high, wanting to protect his face, and after feinting high, Ferox was able to slice low and hit him hard behind the knee, scooping the man’s leg from under him. Gannascus cheered, but pounded the warrior on the back for doing well and grinned at Ferox.

Crispinus lost interest after a while, and took Vindex away with him in case he needed an interpreter, leaving Ferox to fight on. The Germans were enthusiastic and he knew that each man desperately wanted to be the one to beat the Roman officer. He was glad Gannascus stood back and watched, for he did not relish facing his speed and strength, at least not now that he was tired.

The third man was older, with streaks of grey amid his brown hair, and there was a good deal of watching and waiting in between each rapid attack. Ferox thought that he could beat the man, but reckoned that it was better to declare a draw and do him honour. The Germans cheered that, especially when he put down his sword and clasped the man’s hand. After that he took a break, calling for water.