Skaia (90 page)

When Glaucus got home, both young people would hurry to their bedroom for some period of time. And then they would choose their activities for the evening, frequently attending chariot races or theater productions. Lately, they had been going to the gladiatorial games. Gallia was much more enthusiastic about them than Glaucus, sometimes telling Thaddia and Crassus of the bloody deaths she’d witnessed, relishing in relating all the gory details.

To Skaia, this was still something he could not understand about Roman society. They took great pride in their civilization, in their rules of law, their learning and their accomplishments. They could bring running water into the city from miles away through splendid aqueducts. And yet, they took great joy in the slaughter of innocent animals and men. He fought hard not to listen to Gallia’s fervor for blood.

One night during dinner, Thaddeus heard her speaking once more about the blood fest she had witnessed earlier that day, barely able to keep the elation out of her voice. And this time, the comments were addressed directly to the younger children. He immediately held up his hand to stop her, and spoke firmly. “That’s quite enough blood and gore for one night, Gallia. And we will not discuss such things at dinner again.”

She looked up at him in surprise. “But, all Romans should attend the games, Father. It is our heritage, a sign of our domination of the world,” she stated matter-of-factly.

Thaddeus stared at her for a few moments, before he nodded. “Perhaps it is. I have certainly heard the argument before. And, if you and Glaucus wish to go, then that is your decision. But I do not want such matters being discussed here at dinner, in my home.”

Gallia bowed her head, though it was obviously not intended as a show of respect. “As you wish, Father,” she mumbled. “But I would still like for Crassus and Thaddia to join Glaucus and me next week. Gacus Flavio is sponsoring a very special event. A group of Gallic prisoners will be pitted against the wild animals of their barbaric country. There is even a rumor that the prisoners will have their hands chopped off first, to emulate what Caesar did when he conquered the wretched place.” Gallia’s voice had become vivacious again. “It will be like witnessing living history.”

Crassus was almost squirming in excitement. “I want to go, Father,” he pleaded. “All my friends have been to the games.”

Thaddeus was sure what Crassus said was true. Antius and Flavius had complained more than once that he did not attend often enough with them. But he would not allow his children to go. Especially not to see Gauls slaughtered. He looked towards Skaia, wondering if he had heard what Gallia said. But both slaves appeared to be busy with the platters on the serving table.

Turning back to his family, Thaddeus spoke calmly to Crassus. “I will not permit it, Crassus. When you are older—when you have your first toga,” he quickly amended, “then, you can make your own decision. But until that time, the answer is no.”

Crassus pouted, but he knew better than to disagree, while Gallia was obviously incensed, and Glaucus seemed to be rubbing her arm in an attempt to console her. Thaddia stepped into the fray, speaking tentatively. “There is a play at the new Pompey Theater that I would like to see.”

To this Thaddeus readily agreed. “The Theater itself is a magnificent place. Pompey spared no expense in its construction. I’ll be happy to make arrangements for any who want to go.”

Rather than be left out entirely, Crassus asked to be allowed to attend. And, eventually, Glaucus announced that he and Gallia would attend as well.

Feeling more in control of his family, Thaddeus mentioned the races in Arcaia, and Abrahm’s invitation.

“
Why doesn’t he race in the city?” Gallia asked at once.

Thaddeus felt his anger rise, but held his temper and tried to explain. “Because he is a serious racer. He acquires and trains magnificent horses. I suspect he doesn’t want them to be damaged or killed, as has become far too likely in the demolitions that have become so popular in Rome.”

In spite of Gallia’s attempt to sully the suggestion, everyone else was thrilled at the prospect of being in the middle of the race course, in an owner’s box. And it was only Gallia who seemed disturbed when Thaddeus revealed he would also be taking Skaia along.

“
It is not allowed, Father,” she interjected sharply. “Slaves are not permitted in such places. Even you should know that. You will shame us all.”

This, Skaia did hear, and his hands were trembling as he stepped forward, bringing the bowl of warm water for the Romans to wash their hands.

Thaddeus noticed, and tried to keep his voice light as he answered Gallia’s latest objection. “When I am in the mausoleum, with my father, Glaucus will inherit from me,” he said, his voice deceptively calm. “Then, the two of you may do as you wish, Daughter. But until then, I will rule my household as I see fit. And, I expect you, as a member of my family, to honor my wishes.”

Obviously not happy, but having no other alternative, Gallia nodded acquiescence.

As they were leaving the dining room, Thaddeus asked Glaucus to come to his chamber later. Then he called Crassus to him. Pulling him close, he spoke privately to his younger son. “Do you realize that Skaia is from Gaul?”

“
Yes. But what difference does that make?”

Thaddeus was tempted to strike him for his petulant tone, but calmed himself. “Crassus, it means that his people will be killed in those games you want to see. Young men like Skaia will die, simply to amuse the crowds.” He paused, letting his words sink in. “Kaleel is of Persian decent. His people die there as well.”

Crassus caught his breath raggedly, for the first time realizing why his father had been so upset at Gallia’s suggestion. “I didn’t think… I’m sorry, Father.”

Thaddeus hugged him when he saw the moisture in his eyes. “It’s alright, Crassus. Most Romans refuse to think beyond the excitement of the kills. I only hope you never lose the ability to understand all the implications.” He released his son, pushing the hair back from his face. “I don’t think Kaleel or Skaia heard you say you wanted to go.”

“
Good. I… I don’t think I want to be like Gallia.”

Thaddeus smiled, more than happy his son had arrived at that conclusion on his own. But he explained further. “In time, you must go to the games—like any other good Roman. I only want you to wait a little longer.” He leaned over and kissed Crassus’ forehead. “You will be a fine man, my son.”

But I wish my father were here to guide you…

After escorting Gallia to their rooms, Glaucus went to his father’s chamber as requested, where Skaia was seated at the game table with Thaddeus. Hearing his knock at the door, the boy stood and went to answer it, bowing low as Glaucus entered, and then following the young master through the antechamber into the sitting area.

Taking Skaia’s seat, Glaucus studied the Latrunculi board. He looked up with a smile on his face. “Skaia is winning. Two more moves, and he has you check-mated.”

Thaddeus shook his head and smiled back. “You taught him too well. The brat forgets his place. He wins all the time,” he grumbled mockingly.

Glaucus glanced at Skaia, and then back to his father. “And just what is his place?”

“
My slave,” Thaddeus answered.
And my very dear companion,
he added silently in his mind. He looked at his son enquiringly. “Why do you ask?”

Glaucus sighed and broke the eye contact. “Can we have some wine?”

“
Water for me,” Thaddeus nodded to Skaia, who turned immediately to fetch what they wanted. bringing back their filled cups and then kneeling beside his master’s chair at the small motion of Thaddeus’ hand.

Stroking the boy’s hair absently, fingering his curls, Thaddeus looked at his son curiously. He had fully intended to discuss his own concerns, but now it was obvious that Glaucus was troubled as well. “What is it, Glaucus?” he asked. “What’s wrong?”

Glaucus stared at Skaia. “He is what is wrong. Gallia is furious that she was forced to apologize to him. She thinks he is the reason you are so against those special games she wants to see. And she doesn’t approve that you actually intend to take him to the races.”

Thaddeus’ hand closed possessively on Skaia’s neck. His immediate reaction was that Gallia, rather than Skaia, was the problem. But he would hear his son out.
As my father so often did for me.
“I see,” he replied calmly. “And what are your thoughts?”

“
I think you are acting almost as foolishly as I did, when I kissed him in front of everyone,” Glaucus said, sipping his wine. “It is disgraceful, Father, that you show him such obvious favor. If word gets back to Scipio… ”

“
There is absolutely nothing wrong with requiring Gallia to apologize,” Thaddeus interjected. “I had made it perfectly clear to her that Skaia is now my slave. She must obey my rules as much as anyone else in this family.” He drank his water, trying to control his temper. “Though, perhaps,” he admitted, placing his empty cup down, “I should have required the apology be to myself, rather than to Skaia.” He canted his head to study his son’s face more closely. “Surely word of the incident is not public?”

Glaucus shook his head quickly. “Of course not. Gallia and I both will do whatever is necessary to defend the family’s name.”

Thaddeus nodded in relief. “Then how has Senator Scipio become involved?”

Coloring slightly, Glaucus answered, “He sees you at the baths, or hears stories from others. Rumors abound that you flaunt your house whore, especially in the gymnasium areas when you let him participate in your games.” He looked down for a moment. “I’m sorry, Father, but I do want to build my career and reputation as a respected administrator for the Senate. Such talk about my family is… detrimental to my cause.”

Thaddeus considered his son’s words, and could understand his concern only too well.
My own worries just a year and a half ago.
“Very well,” he agreed reluctantly, “I will take steps to change public perceptions.” For a moment, his hand on Skaia’s neck tightened painfully. “For the rest, I disagree with your lovely wife. You know very well that I have never been a fan of Rome’s more brutal entertainments. I may be particularly upset that Gauls are involved—but under no circumstances would I allow my younger children to witness such barbarity.”

“
I know, sir,” Glaucus agreed quietly.

“
As for the races, Abrahm invited us to use his box specifically so that Nicea and Skaia could attend. Remember, the box is private—and the owner of a box would be expected to have slaves on hand to serve his guests. I’ll remove Skaia’s collar, and dress him in a common tunic. Would that be sufficient to appease Gallia?”

“
It should be, but… but she’s not totally rational about him,” Glaucus said, looking up and smiling wryly. “There are times I think she’s attracted to him—which just makes her hate him more.”

Thaddeus looked down at Skaia’s bowed head, feeling the slave’s tremors through his hand that lay resting on the boy’s shoulder. “I think this brings us to my own concerns, Glaucus.”