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The Noble and the Gladiator
Chapter 1
Chapter 1
“YOU BOUGHT QUITE A FEW BOOKS TODAY, LORD Lucianus,” Kaira the servant said.
He was walking through the Levidem district, which was lined with bookshops and shoe stores, alongside his master. Kaira’s arms were filled with a large, bundled stack of parchments and scrolls, making it difficult for him to see where he was going.
“With all these great finds, I simply had to buy them. I didn’t think I’d find the chronicles of the Peralus Kingdom, and I’m eager to head home and unpack my goods,” Lucianus Carusso Emilius replied. His steps were graceful; the joy of finding a book that he’d been desperately searching for was unlike any other. He was on cloud nine.
“Your wish is my command. Let us rush home,” Kaira replied, his tone sounding like he was trying to pacify an unyielding child.
Lucianus had recently turned twenty-two, but to Kaira, who was six years older, perhaps Lucianus was yet to mature into a fully-fledged adult. Kaira was the child of a slave, but his hard, earnest work had been viewed favorably. Five years ago, he was rewarded with his freedom by Lucianus’s late father. Since then, Kaira chose to serve the prestigious House Carusso of his own free will, and took care of his young master, becoming a butler of sorts. Lucianus, who had no family but had been served by Kaira since he was born, saw the former slave less as a servant and more as a close older brother.
As the pair neared the market, there were more people buzzing in the streets. Stalls were lined on either side of the road with vendors selling meat, vegetables, beans, fruits, seafood, cheese, honey, and a myriad of other goods. People would often crowd the market in the morning, and today was no exception.
Lucianus did not particularly appreciate crowded areas, and the hustle and bustle of the crowd made him weary, but above all he feared his precious books and scrolls would be squished by all the clueless people.
“It’s the long way, but why don’t we go through that alley?” he suggested to Kaira.
The alley allowed the pair to avoid the crowd, but it was walled within the housing complexes—Lucianus wasn’t spared the noise. A peddler carrying a wooden rack of fava beans on his back was playing the flute while walking along, and kids scampered around, engrossed in a game of tag. From the top floors of a building, the screeching voice of a woman could be heard, perhaps arguing with her drunken husband.
“My lord, please be careful,” Kaira warned. “Anything could rain upon our heads in a place like this.”
Lucianus nodded at the warning as he gave an internal sigh at the sorry state of this place. Fragments of shattered plates and vases were scattered over the ground of the alley, and the putrid stench of human waste hung in the air. There weren’t any toilets on the upper floors of buildings, and many used chamber pots instead. Some fiends would then dump the contents of these pots out the window and onto the streets.
Dyna was the capital of the massive, flourishing Balmain Empire, which placed provinces it conquered under its wing. The empire was touted as the supreme ruler of the world, and wealth from around the globe flowed through the capital. It was claimed that the world’s riches had been gathered within Dyna, but when one was faced with the daily lives of citizens who lived on the streets, it was difficult for one to maintain their splendiferous image of the capital.
Sixteen years ago, the senators chose Emperor Azerius to ascend the throne. At a glance, it seemed as though the citizens of Dyna were leading a life of pleasure under his rule, not living in starvation or poverty. Residents were rationed with more than enough grain to feed themselves, and a public bath was open to all at affordable costs.
The public bath of Dyna was the epitome of luxury, and this recreational facility was imperative for citizens to socialize. It was fully equipped with a thermopolium, where hot meals were sold, and a massage parlor, as well as a playroom, an athletic field, a library, and even a lounge where one could engage in philosophical discussions. It was routine for a majority of the citizens to spend a few hours of their afternoon relaxing in the public bath. To earn the favor of the citizens, the emperor and senators would sometimes reserve the bathhouse for an entire day and open it free to the public.
However, these higher-ranking officials would often put most of their resources into athletics. Nearly every week, the Damascus Colosseum would host battles as entertainment, and many would eagerly visit the place in hopes of catching a good show. Some days, they would pit unusual beasts gathered from around the world against each other, and on others, gladiators would battle to the death. While the programming changed frequently, hosts would generously pour their wealth into these events, trying to gain popularity.
It wasn’t all good. Foreigners flooded into the capital, leading to overcrowding, and the lack of housing had always been a problem. In addition, streets in urban areas were poorly maintained, and there was a constant traffic jam for cargo carriages. The gripes of the citizens had been obscured by how oddly abundant their entertainment was, and truly important matters were placed on the back burner. Lucianus was absolutely fed up with how trouble was swept under the rug by officials as they partied about atop it. That was truly the current state of Dyna.
Past the alleyway was Bilios Square. A crowd had gathered and formed a ring, their gazes fixated on the young men and women standing upon wooden boxes with only a dirty rag tied around each of their waists. Each person had a tag hung from their neck, simply noting their birth and their characteristics, but that was all—this was the slave market.
“This slave is an absolute steal of a deal!” a slave merchant shouted. He was desperately trying to make a sale to a man that was pondering a purchase. “Healthy, strong, and perfect for carrying your wares!”
Beside the merchant stood an overweight man. He was touching the breasts of a young woman slave and requesting to see her behind.
Slaves of various races were on sale from pale-skinned to dark-skinned to those of Asian descent. A vast majority had been dragged away from nations that the empire had conquered, but some had also been sold by their previous owners. Slaves were treated as their master’s possessions. They were not only easily sold off, but they could also be killed by their master if so desired.
A very small fraction of philosophers protested that slaves required human rights too, and Lucianus was in favor of this idea. Unfortunately, this was a minority opinion in the current era. It was an issue that went beyond providing humane treatment; this nation would soon fall without slaves. Not only were there slaves that served the citizens, but there were also public slaves used for official government business. They were a necessity in the empire, and Lucianus believed that their hard work was the true irreplaceable treasure of Dyna.
“How old is this kid?” a vulgar, husky voice asked the slave merchant. “Do you have any other children?”
Lucianus glanced at the voice and spotted a chubby man with only a formal toga draped over his body. He had stopped in front of a young slave boy with an innocent face.
“He’s ten, good sir,” the merchant replied cheerfully. “Unfortunately, he’s the only child I’ve got today. But he’s quite handsome, isn’t he?” He placed an arm around the boy’s shoulder and added, “Please take him with you back to Bertiaka Palace. I’ve no doubt that he’ll become popular in no time.”
“I want someone younger. Recently, I’ve been getting quite a few clients who’ve taken a liking to children.”
Lucianus furrowed his brows with malaise. “What’s Bertiaka Palace?” he whispered to Kaira.
“It’s a brothel,” Kaira replied. “That man, Baramona, is the owner of the place. Bertiaka offers both women and men for prostitution, and there have been rumors that young children like that boy are also forced to handle customers.”
Lucianus was aware that there was a recent uptick in the trend of secretly using children as sex toys, but he couldn’t understand this nasty hobby. The mere thought of toying with innocent children to fulfill the ugly desires of adults gave Lucianus an explicable sense of repulsion and rage.
“Very well, I suppose I shall make do with that child,” Baramona said with resignation. He tried to negotiate pricing next. “But 200 derrita is too much. Make it 150.”
This child had no way of avoiding the grisly future that undoubtedly awaited him. He could only purse his lips and face the ground, trying his best to hide his emotions. The moment Lucianus saw that expression, he couldn’t stay silent.
“Wait,” Lucianus called. “I’ll buy that child.”
Baramona whirled around and spotted Lucianus. “Well, well, well,” Baramona said. He narrowed his eyes unpleasantly. “I wouldn’t have imagined that the wealthy son of a noble was personally on the hunt for a young slave. How passionate you are.”
Lucianus was enveloped in a pale purple toga reserved only for higher-ranking nobles. Anyone could tell at a glance that he was of noble birth. Baramona’s tone sounded polite, but his words exuded insolence.
“Sir, I’ll pay the original price. I won’t negotiate you down,” Lucianus said to the merchant. “You’ll sell him to me, won’t you?”
The merchant rubbed his hands together and nodded. “Most certainly!”
“But I tried to buy this boy first,” Baramona grumbled. “I should have the right to purchase this slave.”
“He hadn’t yet accepted your haggling,” Lucianus countered. “As long as the negotiations haven’t ended, you’ve got no right of purchase. The one who ultimately decides is the seller.”
Baramona glared at Lucianus, his gaze implying that he wouldn’t back down even against a noble. “Then I won’t negotiate and I’ll buy him at 200 derrita,” he retorted. “Sir, then surely you’ll sell him to me? I asked first, after all.”
The slave merchant must’ve had a friendly relationship with Baramona, and felt forced to concede. “Dear noble, I’m terribly sorry,” the merchant said.
“Then I shall pay 250 derrita,” Lucianus replied.
“Then my offer is 270!” Baramona shouted. He swung his fist around, growing more stubborn by the second.
“I’ll pay 300.”
“320!”
“350.”
“380! How about that?”
A fierce bidding war broke out, gathering the interest of a crowd. People were watching on, curious as to who would become the victor. Lucianus wasn’t fond of being the center of attention and wanted to end this fuss at once. He raised two fingers in the air and pointed them at the slave merchant.
“I shall offer twenty alekka gold coins,” Lucianus declared.
The crowd murmured with awe. Twenty alekka gold coins were equivalent to 500 derrita silver coins. Baramona wasn’t willing to pay such a high expense and his face turned a deep scarlet.
“How foolish!” he spat. He stormed away, pushing aside the onlookers.
“Sir, I apologize, but I don’t have the money on me right now,” Lucianus said. “Could you deliver that child to my house later? I shall pay you then, and I assure you that I will compensate you handsomely for your troubles. I hope you don’t mind.”
“Not at all,” the merchant replied. “And where am I to deliver this child?”
“To Tenino District, Montierre Street, House Carusso.”
“Oh my!” The slave merchant gasped loudly, unable to hide his astonishment. “Then are you the son of House Carusso?”
“Indeed, I am. I am the current master of the house, Lucianus Carusso Emilius. I understand that my request will trouble you, but I’m counting on you.”
Lucianus made sure to emphasize his place as the master of the house. It’d been three years since he’d inherited his household, and yet, he was still treated as the son of an influential noble. He couldn’t stand it.
Lucianus approached the slave boy. “Can you understand me?” he asked.
The boy looked terrified and looked up at his new master before he spoke. “Yes.”
“From today onward, you will be my slave, but you have nothing to worry about. I don’t whip my slaves, and I won’t let you starve. I promise to provide you with adequate food and a clean sleeping environment.”
Perhaps it would have been better if his expression softened, but regrettably, Lucianus was not one to force a smile. But despite the fact that he sounded horribly indifferent and cold,the boy nodded with a look of relief.
“So that’s Lord Lucianus of House Carusso. He’s as beautiful as the rumors state,” a person from the crowd murmured.
“He must take after his mother,” another said. “Before she married, she was a beautiful temple priestess working at Parefas. That brilliant golden hair is undoubtedly from his mother.”
“He’s the nephew of General Naulo, isn’t he?” said a third. “He doesn’t resemble the general one bit.”
Lucianus disliked being rumored about and swiftly left the scene with Kaira in tow. Only when they entered a deserted alley did Kaira open his mouth.
“You have more than enough slaves already,” he nagged. “What do you plan on doing with a child slave who can’t work at all?”
“Can you blame me?” Lucianus asked. “I couldn’t abandon that boy.”
“You’re too kind, Lord Lucianus. What’s more, you’re so handsome that you’d make even Verna, the goddess of beauty, blush. And yet, it’s rather odd, isn’t it? I’ve only heard rumors that the new young lord of House Carusso is an eccentric shut-in of a man who has interest only in his studies. Indeed, he seems to be rather peculiar.” Kaira sighed.
Rumors are nothing more than the chirping of birds. People may talk as they wish, Lucianus thought as he felt compelled to sigh in response. He was only good-looking because his mother was a famed beauty, and though he was handsome, he disliked his feminine face. It made him look sensitive. In his teens, he had often been praised for being a beautiful boy, and Lucianus had found it to be quite troublesome. However, when people realized that he was only able to spout cutting remarks and was unfriendly to the point where he’d never crack a smile, everyone left his company looking visibly disappointed.
Lucianus deeply disliked socializing and was unable to make any close friends. Needless to say, he had no lover either. He was grateful that he was allowed to be constantly engrossed in his favorite studies thanks to the exorbitant wealth that his late father left behind. But because there was no reason for Lucianus to go out of his way to socialize, he was living like a retired old man, leading a humble life of solitude despite his young age of twenty-two.
“That’s nothing to be bothered about,” Lucianus said. “It’s the truth, after all. As long as I can do what I love—studying—I don’t care about anything else. Silly ideas of conceitedness and ambition should be left to those doddering, old senators. They’re more vulgar than pigs, the lot of them.”
“There you go again with your insults…” Kaira replied.
Both Lucianus’s father and grandfather were senators. The senate was the highest government assembly within the nation and comprised a select few wealthy nobles who would serve for life. This role was hereditary, and Lucianus had the option of joining the senate when he turned thirty. However, he would much rather die than join the rotten world of politics, filled with men who thought of only serving themselves.
Almost all the senators had amassed their vast wealth by purchasing publicly owned land or land from peasants while forcing their army of slaves to suffer through horrific and harsh working environments. The senators, aiming for a higher post, would use a small portion of their profits for the citizens’ entertainment, in hopes of heightening their popularity. It was all very silly indeed. Lucianus’s father was one of the few politicians with high aspirations. Hence, he was often isolated from the rest. Lucianus had been raised observing the unending suffering of his father, and had thus felt only despair in the political world.
“Ah, you must be a rich, young lad,” a voice came from behind. “Couldn’t you spare a coin for the poor?”
Lucianus slowly turned to meet three men. They looked more like rogues than beggars. Kaira stepped in front of his master, remaining vigilant.
“Unfortunately, we don’t have any money on us,” Kaira said. “If you wish for aid, visit House Carusso tomorrow morning. Those who know their manners will receive the goodwill of my benevolent lord.”
Lucianus had always said that it was the duty of the wealthy to help the poor—acts of charity should never be used to gather votes or favor. Thus, Kaira didn’t chase these men away immediately. The three men, however, had smug, mocking grins on their faces as they exchanged a meaningful glance.
“Sorry, but I’m a bit short on time,” one of the men said. “Why don’t you give me all the goodwill you’ve got on you right now?”
“Give us all your money!” another added.
An overweight man on the right threatened Lucianus and Kaira. These three men were nothing more than bandits. Robbing a man was a serious crime that was sometimes punishable by death. It would’ve been more logical if they committed this crime under the curtain of the night, but they were rather bold and did so in the middle of the day.
“Lord Lucianus, please flee,” Kaira said. He tried to put all the scrolls onto the ground.
“Keep those scrolls in your arms,” Lucianus ordered his servant. He stood before the man in the center, who he assumed was the leader of the trio. “Who sent you?”
Panic flashed across the bandit’s eyes for a split second, and Lucianus didn’t miss it.
“Sent by Baramona, I take it,” Lucianus said. “He ordered you three to attack me as an act of revenge for that embarrassing display earlier.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” the bandit replied. “We just want money. Stop yammering and hand me all your coin. And gimme that bracelet you’ve got, too.”
The metal bracelet was a keepsake of Lucianus’s mother. She received it from her husband when the two married, and she had worn it at all times. Before she passed away from an illness, she called for ten-year-old Lucianus and entrusted him with her accessory. Ever since, this bracelet has been a treasured item to Lucianus, a lasting memory of his mother. Even if his arm was sliced off, he wasn’t willing to let go of this bracelet. Lucianus unsheathed the short sword that hung by his waist, but the bandits didn’t falter despite being unarmed. It was clear that they assumed that a frail nobleman couldn’t do much against them.
A slender man to the left pounced. Lucianus reacted by swinging his sword, but the bandit was too nimble for the noble’s blade. Lucianus had been training with a sword since he was young, and his skills were decent, but the blade in his hand was smaller than what he was used to, and the toga around his body restricted his movements. He was at a disadvantage.
The moment Lucianus stepped on the hem of his toga and tripped forward, a burly bandit tackled him. The noble’s slender frame was thrown back and slammed into a brick wall. Lucianus managed to avoid hitting his head, but because he’d twisted his body awkwardly, sharp pain shot out from his ankle. He gripped his sword once more and was ready to fight while protecting his right leg.
“What’s all this fuss on such a narrow street?” a low, yet beautiful voice clearly rang out. “You’re in the way. Move.”
The bandits whirled around and found a large man with stubble on his chin. He was wearing a simple tunic that went down to his knees and leather military sandals. His brawny, powerful body was apparent, his chest muscles clearly bulging even underneath his garment.
“Just use another street,” the bandit leader said.
“I can’t do that,” the man replied. “I want to use this street. If you all refuse to move, I’ll simply beat you into the ground. You’re all cowards who prey on the weak. I doubt I’d get punished even if I kill you.”
The bandits couldn’t hide their rage at the fearless gaze of the newcomer who seemed set on provoking them.
“Fuck you! You’re the one who’s gonna die here!” the overweight bandit roared. He leaped forward nimbly, but the man was faster. The man easily dodged the attack and rammed his elbow into the back of the bandit’s head. The overweight bandit fell to the ground with that single blow, and the remaining pair were easily dealt with as well. The battle was over in seconds.
The bandits had lost their will to fight, taken aback by the clear difference in power, and they hastily slinked away while carrying their fat, unconscious friend.
“Thank you. You saved our lives,” Kaira said.
“Are you his only guard?” the man inquired.
“I am,” Kaira nodded.
Lucianus didn’t like walking around with a large crowd of guards. Other nobles would often have a host of men to protect them even across short distances. It made them look splendid and would gather the attention of citizens. Lucianus felt that doing so was beyond stupid, and had decided to only take Kaira along whenever he snuck out of his manor.
“This area has been pretty dangerous lately,” the brawny man said. “It’s no place for a noble to be wandering around.”
The man was rather frank as he approached the pair he’d just saved. Lucianus was mesmerized by the man’s bulging muscles, but on closer inspection, he had a handsome face as well. He had short, brown hair and tanned skin, accentuating his rugged, manly features. His amber eyes, a mixture of yellow and gold, were calm like the surface of a serene ocean, in stark contrast to his powerful physique. He looked quite mystical.
“We’ll be more careful in the future,” Kaira replied.
“We were just unlucky this time,” Lucianus replied. “A man who was humiliated by me sent those bandits as revenge.”
As he sheathed his short sword, the man openly stared at Lucianus, sizing him up. Lucianus found it unpleasant to be stared at like an object, and he didn’t like that the man had essentially called him “weak” earlier either.
“What are you looking at?” Lucianus asked, making his tone more forceful.
“I was just thinking that nobles know no manners,” the burly man replied. “Isn’t it customary to thank the person who saved you first?”
Lucianus was annoyed by the insolent words, but he couldn’t refute such sound logic. There was no reason for him to complain, and he suppressed his vexation as he expressed his gratitude.
“Thank you for saving me. I appreciate it,” he said.
“Have you injured your leg?” Kaira asked. The servant worriedly approached his master, noticing that Lucianus was trying to protect his right leg.
“I only twisted it a little,” Lucianus replied as he tried to walk ahead.
“You mustn’t,” Kaira replied. “This district forbids us from bringing a carriage, so I shall go find a palanquin for you.”
“No need. A palanquin is a vehicle for women.”
“But it will take longer to heal if you keep pushing yourself.”
“You can’t trouble your guard here,” the man with a stubble butted in.
Every word he spoke struck a nerve with Lucianus.
“Keep out of this,” Lucianus snapped. “It has nothing to do with you.”
The man ignored these words and turned to Kaira. “Is there anything I could do to help? I’d love to do what I can.”
Kaira looked relieved. “You’re too kind! Then I shall take you up on that offer. Would you please call for more servants? You can find House Carusso in Tenino District, on Montierre Street. If you’re in the vicinity, most people will know where that manor is—”
“There’s no need for me to call for help, is there? I’ll carry this wealthy son, and that will resolve matters much quicker. It’ll be easier to carry his slender frame than it is to hold a piglet.”
“How insolent!” Lucianus grumbled. He didn’t take kindly to those words. He was infuriated to be called a “wealthy son,” and he was even angrier that his physique was being mentioned. He’d always been slender, and he couldn’t put on more weight no matter how hard he tried. Even into adulthood, he disliked how he still had the petite frame of a young boy and it was secretly one of his deepest insecurities. And now, he was being ridiculed by a man who was his polar opposite, boasting a burly, masculine physique.
“I didn’t mean to insult you. Forgive me,” the man offered.
While Lucianus was stunned by how easily the man apologized, the brawny stranger approached the noble and easily scooped him up as one would do to a child.
“L-let me down!” Lucianus cried.
“Hey, don’t make a fuss,” the man replied.
“Don’t cradle me! I’m not a woman or a child. Carry me on your back.”
“What a noisy, wealthy son.” The man let Lucianus down, then lowered himself to one knee to offer his back. Lucianus frowned, but entrusted his body to the man’s wide back.
“Hang on tight,” the brawny man said.
Lucianus reluctantly wrapped his arms around the man’s shoulders, and the man stood and started walking ahead. His footsteps were firm and stable. The glistening muscles on his body were more apparent when Lucianus was touching them directly. This helpful stranger didn’t seem like a soldier, but his body was refined and splendid.
“Er, are you perhaps Sir Dominatus the gladiator?” Kaira asked.
“I am,” the man, Dominatus, nodded.
Even Lucianus, who rarely listened to rumors, had heard of Dominatus the gladiator. He was the best fighter around and very popular.
“I knew it!” Kaira exclaimed. “Your recent battle against Danakan was simply magnificent!”
Lucianus rarely visited the colosseum as he wasn’t interested, but Kaira occasionally saw a match or two. The servant was unable to hide his excitement when faced with a popular star gladiator and continued to eagerly praise Dominatus’s battles. Dominatus himself was a man of few words, but he nodded along with a faint smile dancing on his lips.
Kaira was still showering the gladiator with praises when they arrived at Carusso Manor. Dominatus crouched to let Lucianus down in front of the manor, and reached for the noble’s sprained ankle.
“It’s starting to swell up,” Dominatus observed. “Best if you cool it for a while and wrap the ankle tightly with a bandage. You should sleep for three days with your leg raised, and from the fourth day onward, make sure to keep your ankle warm. The pain and swelling should subside sooner that way.”
Dominatus’s rugged fingers gently brushed against the injury. He was only inspecting the ankle, but his touches were so surprisingly tender that Lucianus felt his heart start to race. In hopes of hiding his confusion, Lucianus swiftly turned to his servant.
“Kaira, offer this man my gratitude,” he ordered.
“I need no reward,” Dominatus said. “I’m making more than enough money and don’t require anything from you.”
“I never asked for your salary, did I? It’d do you no good to refuse a person’s gratitude. I suggest you obediently accept it.”
Upon hearing Lucianus’s stubborn retort, Dominatus inexplicably grinned and stood up. “If you wish to reward me so badly, I don’t want money. I’d like something else.”
“Oh? And what would that be? Tell me.”
“Will you come to my next colosseum battle?”
Lucianus furrowed his brow, unable to understand the intention behind the request. “The colosseum? But why?”
“Do you know of the statue of Shanora, the Goddess of Victory, on Terimos Hill? You’re the spitting image of her. If you cheer for me, I’m certain that my fights will go well. You’ll be a symbol of good fortune.”
What nonsense is he saying? Lucianus thought. He was aware of the stone statue, but he knew that he didn’t resemble her at all. Besides, it was surely curious for a man to resemble a goddess. It made no sense to him.
“I don’t like the colosseum,” Lucianus frowned.
“I’m surprised to hear that a Dyna citizen holds disdain for the place,” Dominatus replied. “You’re truly eccentric.”
“Feel free to call me so. When I was a child, my father took me to the colosseum multiple times, but I had no fun at all. I cannot understand why the audience is so eager to watch such a barbaric and cruel form of entertainment.”
It was more forgivable if these gladiators died in battle, however, even if the loser of the bout fought splendidly without a scratch on him, the audience would shower him with insults, and he would be killed on the spot. It didn’t matter who made the request; Lucianus refused to attend an event where people’s executions were used as entertainment.
“I agree that gladiator battles are silly; there’s no denying that,” Dominatus said, his voice flat. “But gladiators are risking their lives for the people’s entertainment. They’re all fighting desperately so that they can live to see another day. I suppose the son of a noble has never learned of suffering, so I doubt you’d ever understand.”
With that, he turned and walked away. As Lucianus stared at Dominatus’s receding back, he was tempted to cry out that it was all a misunderstanding. Lucianus wasn’t scorning gladiators.
When asked who were the worst kinds of people, the citizens of Dyna would all agree that for the men, it was gladiators, and for the women, prostitutes. Indeed, people normally mocked gladiators and no parent wanted their own child to choose that profession.
Almost all gladiators were either slaves selected by showmen or criminals who had been given the death sentence. They were forced to undergo strict training every day, and required to regularly enter gladiator battles. None of this was voluntary. These gladiators had no right to refuse.
Lucianus may have pitied these people, but never did he feel aversion. But because he didn’t properly explain himself, Dominatus had misunderstood the noble’s intentions. It was regrettable, but there was nothing Lucianus could do. Kaira removed his master’s outdoor shoes and replaced them with indoor cork sandals. Grubo, one of Lucianus’s slaves with a black eyepatch over his right eye, arrived to welcome his master.
“Carry Lord Lucianus to the sofa in the sunroom,” Kaira ordered.
Grubo easily carried Lucianus in his arms. Dominatus was a large man, but even he looked small when compared to a towering giant like Grubo. The slave hailed from a southern continent across the sea, and had been in a gladiator school when he was young. Grubo had lost vision in his right eye from an injury that occurred during training, and even his legs gave way as time went on. Having lost his use, he was put up for sale, and was purchased by Lucianus’s father.
Lucianus was carried out of the front hall, through the inner courtyard with a fountain, and lowered onto a sofa in the sunroom.
“Thank you, Grubo,” Lucianus said.
Grubo only nodded before he retreated. When Lucianus was a child, he often played atop the giant’s shoulders, but since he became an adult, he was seldom carried. It’d been a while since Lucianus was in the arms of his slave, and Grubo’s warmth gave a sense of safety. It was completely different from Dominatus. For some odd reason, Lucianus felt restless when he was with the gladiator. I wonder why…
Kaira brought a jug of water and a damp cloth to cool Lucianus’s swollen ankle.
“Do gladiators make a lot of money?” Lucianus asked.
Kaira raised his head, his gaze gentle. “You’re still bothered that your token of thanks was rejected, I take it?”
It was as though he read his master’s mind. Lucianus could never keep any secrets from Kaira.
“I just don’t like him one bit,” Lucianus said angrily. He frowned in an attempt to hide his awkwardness. “It’s rather bold for a gladiator like him to lecture me, don’t you think?”
“Sir Dominatus is no longer a slave,” Kaira replied. “He’s claimed numerous victories throughout the years, and was freed three years ago.”
“He was awarded his freedom, and yet he remains a gladiator?”
“Quite so. A small fraction of people do just that. Normally, one would retire and use the money they gained to start their own business, but Sir Dominatus chose to remain a gladiator.”
Lucianus simply couldn’t understand why Dominatus would continue to challenge himself to these fruitless fights, all for the entertainment of the people. Did the gladiator not find his own life to be precious?
“I assume he cannot let go of the applause and praise he gets after every battle,” Lucianus said.
“Perhaps so,” Kaira replied. “But his battles have spurred his popularity, and Sir Dominatus is acclaimed to be the gladiator of all gladiators. Ah, and to answer your earlier question, if one becomes the highest-ranking gladiator, a single fight will easily surpass a year’s worth of my pay.”
Lucianus thought that he paid Kaira a handsome salary, and he couldn’t hide his shock to hear that a single fight had such a high payout. He had no idea just how many fights a gladiator would enter a year, but it was easy to see that they made more than a downfallen noble did.
“And yet, his clothes were simple,” Lucianus said.
“There are rumors that he uses a majority of his money to help cities in poverty,” Kaira replied.
The servant continued to praise Dominatus with no intention of scolding his earlier audacious attitude. It made Lucianus grumpier, but he couldn’t quite understand why he was so annoyed. He usually wasn’t quick-tempered—why was he so fixated on Dominatus’s words and attitude? Why was Lucianus so agitated?
A slave called Miyana appeared with a glass of wine mixed with some honey. She brought it to her master. Lucianus sipped his drink and tried to calm himself down, but his mind remained occupied by that impudent gladiator.
Chapter 2
Chapter 2
“GOODNESS, LUCIANUS! I MUST BE DREAMING! I CAN’T believe you’re here!” Juliana cried.
She was Lucianus’s cousin, and he had bumped into her when he was walking into the corridor of the round colosseum. How troublesome, Lucianus thought, but he smiled to mask his feelings.
“I didn’t think you’d be here, Juliana,” Lucianus said.
“You detest the colosseum, and yet, here you are!” Juliana replied. “What a curious turn of events!”
“It’s a bit suffocating to keep focusing on my studies. I thought this would be a nice change of pace for me.”
As Lucianus lied through his teeth, he sat down on an open seat. Juliana, who was three years older, plopped down beside him without a second thought. He had wanted to view the battles by himself, but now he was unable to switch seats. Lucianus had to resign himself to his fate.
The impressive Damascus Colosseum could house an audience of fifty thousand people, and almost all the seats were completely filled. The seating areas were divided by rank. The front rows were reserved for nobles, and the rows behind that were for the knights. Behind that were seats for commoners, then chairs for free people who didn’t hold citizenship, and in the very back, in the upper gallery, was standing space for the poor. Even servants weren’t allowed in the space reserved for nobles, and Kaira was likely seated in the back, enjoying the show.
“Are you not with Maltheus?” Lucianus asked.
Maltheus Minoras Kaidu was Juliana’s husband and a young senator. The two married five years ago but hadn’t been blessed with any children. Juliana was just as beautiful as she was before she tied the knot.
“He’s at home, claiming that he’s suffering from a headache,” Juliana replied. “I imagine he’s having fun with a slave he fancies while his wife is away. I wonder what he sees in that ugly woman. All she has are a large bosom and buttocks.”
Maltheus was a fine man, but a womanizer. Lucianus found it wise to swiftly change subjects. “How is my uncle doing?” he asked.
“Bored to tears in D’Aleppo,” Juliana replied. “I received another letter from him complaining that he wants to be relieved of his post as governor and return to Dyna as soon as he can.”
Juliana’s father, Valius Carusso Naulo, was the younger brother of Lucianus’s father. Valius was a man of great caliber who had claimed numerous victories in battle and climbed his way up to general. Three years ago, he had achieved a splendid victory against the massive Urnay, the most powerful nation in the southern continent. This elevated his status to national hero.
Emperor Azerius, on the other hand, didn’t see this so favorably. Valius’s extreme popularity with the people and the military were seen as threats to the emperor’s rule. The emperor gave Valius the title of governor and sent him off to the large nation of D’Aleppo, located in the north. It was a strategic method to get rid of a nuisance. A governor was a government official, making it difficult for Valius to control the army. Essentially stripped of his power, the national hero was spending his days in anguish in a faraway foreign land.
“I’ve been told that the breeze of D’Aleppo is chilly, even in the summer,” Juliana said. “I’m certain that the winters there are horribly cold. I pity my father. Because of the harassment of our narrow-minded emperor, he hasn’t been able to return to Dyna for over two years now.”
She spoke in a low voice, but Lucianus couldn’t help but furrow his brow upon hearing his cousin complain about the emperor so openly. Even the daughter of the famed and legendary General Valius Carusso Naulo wouldn’t be let off easily should rumors of her badmouthing the emperor spread; Juliana and even Valius might receive the brunt of the emperor’s fury. The results would be disastrous.
“Not another word, Juliana,” Lucianus scolded. “You must heed your tongue for your husband and your father’s sake.”
“All right, all right,” Juliana replied casually as she turned away.
She was a strong-minded woman who did as she pleased, which made Lucianus worry about her. When she married, her father, his face red from alcohol, had looked quite pleased.
“I’m sure that my wild stallion of a daughter will calm down now,” he’d said.
But marriage didn’t change her; Juliana couldn’t be tamed. While it was now her husband who struggled to hold her reins instead of her father, she was as wild as ever.
Lucianus had been rather fond of his beautiful, noble, and down-to-earth cousin ever since he was young. In fact, when he was a child, he’d planned on marrying her when he became older. However, when he was twelve, she’d done something that made him swear that he could never be with her.
Juliana had visited his house to play, and Lucianus decided to muster up the courage to confess his feelings.
“If you wish, I don’t mind taking you in as my wife,” he’d said, his face red.
Juliana didn’t seem to be against that idea. “Then why don’t you kiss me?”
It was his first kiss, and his heart pounded out of his chest as he placed his lips over hers. Suddenly, he was violently pushed away. Lucianus fell to the ground in utter confusion, and he locked eyes with a fierce Juliana.
“You are a horrible kisser!” she spat.
Lucianus was hurt by those words. Even to this day, it made him sad to think about it.
It was later revealed that Juliana didn’t like how haughty he sounded as he pompously declared to take her in as his wife. Her words were her act of retaliation. Young Lucianus was dense when it came to understanding a woman’s heart. He believed that she’d be happy to hear that the eldest son of the main branch of the household was willing to marry her. There had been no doubt in his mind. Now, decades later, Lucianus was truly glad that he didn’t marry Juliana; he knew that he couldn’t handle someone as ill-tempered as her.
“Is there a gladiator that you’ve got your eyes on?” she asked.
“None at all,” Lucianus replied instantly.
“No one? How very boring. I’m rooting for a gladiator named Simon. He’s very handsome and popular among women.”
“What about Dominatus? I’ve heard he’s rather popular as well.”
“Dominatus? Well, he certainly is, but I think Simon is exponentially more wonderful. He’s young, beautiful, and has a perfect physique. There can’t possibly be anyone better, don’t you think?”
Lucianus couldn’t understand women one bit. Why did they try to rank gladiators based purely on attractiveness?
“You seem well-informed, so let me ask you: what kind of person is Dominatus?” Lucianus inquired.
“He’s surrounded by many rumors,” Juliana replied. “There’s no end to the legends that swirl around him. Some claim that he may be the illegitimate child of a noble, or perhaps he’s the prince of a foreign nation. Others say that he could be the illegitimate child of the previous emperor. Though I imagine that these stories are all made up. In terms of raw strength, Dominatus is at the top, but if you want to talk about toughness, Grucos might be the one you’re looking for. No matter how cornered he is, he always comes out on top somehow.”
“Grucos? What kind of gladiator is he?”
“He was sentenced to death after committing a crime when he was in the military. He became a gladiator to avoid the death penalty, and because he’s undefeated, he’s still alive to this day. There has been much discussion as of late about who would win in a match of Dominatus versus Grucos.”
“Have the two ever fought against each other?” If the two men were so immensely popular, everyone would want to see their match.
“People have requested for the two to fight, and these pleas are only increasing by the day,” Juliana answered. “But they’ve never fought against each other. Grucos is the emperor’s favorite gladiator, you see. Nobles hosting the colosseum matches have made a silent pact to never let Grucos fight against Dominatus as there’s a chance that the former could lose. Ah, I’m so bored! I wish they’d just end these matches between third-rate gladiators and get on with it.”
Juliana voiced her complaints as the so-called third-rate gladiators were fighting for their lives in the center of the arena. While a few people were cheering, many of them were watching on coldly, hardly giving much of a reaction. These fighters were more of an opening act, and it was only natural that people weren’t eagerly rooting for them.
The colosseum had a schedule. In the mornings, wild beasts would fight against each other, or hunters would chase down animals set free in the arena. At around noon, criminals would be publicly executed. After all that was done, the main draw, the gladiator matches, would begin. Third-rate gladiators or those new to the scene would kick off this event, and the popular fighters would appear at the end. As Dominatus’s match would surely be at the end due to his popularity, Lucianus had planned on going later in the afternoon, but Kaira warned that seats would be filled if they didn’t get there earlier. And so, Lucianus showed up at the colosseum while the sun was still rather high in the sky.
After much agonizing, Lucianus had finally declared that he would go to the colosseum.
“Ah, to cheer on Sir Dominatus,” Kaira had nodded happily.
Lucianus desperately made his excuses, claiming that he didn’t want to remain indebted to Dominatus, but Kaira only nodded while voicing his approval. Lucianus’s attendance alone was his form of compensation; he had no intention of rooting for an ill-mannered brute like Dominatus.
“The one next to His Imperial Majesty must be the oracle, Unafotus,” Juliana said. “How amazing it is for a mere oracle to sit next to an emperor.”
Juliana wasn’t offering words of praise; she was slighting the two men. Emperor Azerius had once made a name for himself as a soldier, and even now in his sixties, he still maintained his impressive physique. Sitting in the VIP front-row seats of the balcony, he looked fed up with the matches of the third-rate gladiators, wearing a bored expression beside his wife, Oltavia.
There’d been numerous rumors that their marriage was deteriorating, and the emperor wouldn’t even speak a word to the empress these days. However, he could be seen leaning close to Unafotus and nodding along to the words whispered into his ear. Unafotus was enveloped in black from head to toe, and he was apparently a former court oracle that once guided the ruined nation of Kulshan to flourish. His old age had caused his back to arch considerably, but he still emanated a peculiar, intense aura. Astrology was his forte, and he gazed at stars to make divinations about someone’s death or natural disasters. He could even predict the rise and fall of nations.
Five years ago, Unafotus arrived in this nation and used his divination skills to quickly make himself indispensable to the nobility. Ultimately, he became favored by the emperor, allowing the oracle to climb his way up. Azerius was enchanted by Unafotus’s abilities, and it was rumored that the emperor didn’t even begin to entertain a decision before he consulted his oracle. By the looks of it, the rumors weren’t too far off.
Though the emperor could command the military as he pleased, when it came to politics, it was imperative for the senate to hold a meeting and come to a decision. Unfortunately, the current senators were all rotten to the core, and a majority of them had already been bribed by Azerius. In truth, the emperor was running a dictatorship.
Still, a ruler needed the support of his citizens, and Azerius was more aware of that than any other emperor before him. Two years ago, after the colosseum was built, the emperor hosted an opening ceremony dedicated to the newly erected structure. The festivities continued for one hundred days straight with no breaks in between, much to the shock of the citizens. The customary parade before the matches was also hosted every day, delighting the people and causing much excitement, but behind-the-scenes, many animals and gladiators had lost their lives.
“As sure as the setting of the sun, a flourishing nation will inevitably fall into ruin one day. No one can fight against the natural order,” Lucianus muttered.
These were the final words of Peralus’s last king. The Kingdom of Peralus had once been acclaimed as the champion of the continent, but even it couldn’t escape the clutches of ruin.
“What did you just say?” Juliana asked, whirling around.
“I said, ‘glory to the peaceful rule of our revered emperor.’”
Juliana caught the biting sarcasm hidden under Lucianus’s statement. “I feel the same,” she replied with a smile.
After a while, Simon, her favorite gladiator, made his appearance. He was a handsome man who walked through the world with refined movements, and it was easy to imagine that he was popular with the ladies. Surely, the man would become even more popular in the future, but his charm wasn’t reflected in the eyes of Lucianus.
“Isn’t he just amazing?” Juliana asked. She was unable to hide her excitement as she turned to her cousin for agreement.
Lucianus only gave a silent nod.
“I’ve actually bought him before,” Juliana whispered into his ear. “He was splendid, even in the bedroom.”
Lucianus furrowed his brow. He’d heard that there were quite a few women who were tempted to purchase these brawny gladiators for their enjoyment, but he never imagined a noble like Juliana to have actually done so. He didn’t think she had such immodest hobbies.
“That’s adultery,” Lucianus said. “If your husband finds out, he’ll divorce you.”
“He won’t,” Juliana reassured. “I’ve made sure to be extra careful. And Simon’s popular, so it’ll be a while before I get my turn with him again. I wonder when I can see him next.”
“If it’s a man you want, why not hire a male prostitute? Sleeping with a gladiator will only give birth to rumors.”
Juliana glared at her cousin. “I want Simon. I’m not settling for just any man. I want Simon, and only him. Do you understand what I’m saying? I’m in love with him.”
She didn’t look an ounce apologetic as she divulged her serious feelings, making Lucianus even more exasperated. If you’re actually in love with him, that only makes things worse.
“Even a sharp woman like you becomes foolish in the face of love, I see,” Lucianus mused.
“If not for romance, then where else shall I be a fool? A prude like you may never understand, but simply having a person you love in your life will paint your world in beautiful colors.”
It was clear that she didn’t feel fulfilled with her marriage to Maltheus, but a wife hopelessly chasing after an illicit love was nothing short of foolish to Lucianus. You’re the one who shall be troubled when your husband decides to divorce you. Have you gone mad? Love was like catching a fever. One may feel lightheaded for a short while and become obsessed with their paramour, but it wouldn’t last long before the passion subsided. Throwing away a stable marriage for such a thing surely would only cause one to feel regret.
“You’ll understand one day, Lucianus,” Juliana said. She gazed at him as an older sibling would. “You just need to fall in love.”
“I don’t want to understand,” Lucianus replied. “Romance is nothing but a waste of time.”
“Oh, how I pity you. I do wish you’d mature soon.”
As Lucianus pouted for being treated like a child, Dominatus finally made his appearance. Cheers roared from the audience; the gladiator’s popularity was deafening. It was a bit past three in the afternoon, but the harsh rays of the sun were still beating onto the white sands. Lucianus narrowed his eyes and gazed at Dominatus, who was slowly making his way to the center of the arena.
Unlike the other gladiators Lucianus had seen until now, Dominatus was wearing only light armor. He was equipped with greaves, a gauntlet on his right hand, and a galea helmet. He was naked from the waist up, his bulging chest muscles prominent even from afar. In one hand he gripped a double-edged longsword, and in the other he held a small shield. Dominatus gently swung his heavy sword around as a bit of a warm-up, but those movements alone were enough to make the crowd go wild.
His opponent was called Mauro. He was shorter than Dominatus, but his upper body was so muscular that he resembled a small mountain. Juliana had stated that Mauro was a capable fighter who had claimed consecutive victories in gladiator battles in the countryside. The audience all waited with bated breath as the match began. The two gladiators swung their swords around, gauging how the other would react. With each clang of steel that rang in the air, the audience grew more invested in the match.
Mauro gave a loud battle cry and swung his blade down with all his might. He gave it his all, but Dominatus spun his body around to dodge the attack and unleashed a sharp counter of his own. The crowd burst into cheers at his nimble movements.
Despite Dominatus’s burly body, he was as agile as a leopard. His splendid swordplay and his bold movements caught his opponents by surprise and captivated the audience. Only when Lucianus saw the bout with his own eyes did he finally understand the reason behind Dominatus’s popularity.
His movements were polished, and every attack and defense he made was magnificent. The third-rate gladiators didn’t hold a candle to him—they desperately fought for their lives, caring little about their technique. Their battles were messy and sloppy. On the other hand, Dominatus was able to move elegantly to excite the crowd. There was no doubt that Mauro was a mighty opponent, but the fact that Dominatus was able to put on a bit of theatrics proved that the latter’s skills were exponentially higher than the former’s.
Lucianus was impressed by Dominatus’s strategy. Dominatus could’ve ended this match in seconds should he have gone all out, but he created scenarios to corner himself, making it seem like he was evenly matched against his foe. He was acutely aware that simply being strong and winning matches wouldn’t satisfy his audience.
After capturing their hearts and rousing the crowd, Dominatus slashed at his opponent’s arm, forcing Mauro to drop his weapon. Dominatus kicked him to the ground, and the injured Mauro, having lost his will to fight, was unable to move. Dominatus calmly took a mounted position on top of his opponent and raised his blade high above his head. Lucianus averted his gaze, but the audience erupted into a wave of cheers.
“Get him!” one shouted.
“Kill him!” another egged.
To Lucianus, the most frightful thing at the colosseum was the cruelty of the crowd that saw a person’s death as a form of entertainment. At home, these people would be good fathers, wives, or sons, but the moment they set foot in the colosseum to view a match, they transformed into despots who relished the sight of blood and heartless murder.
As the victor of this match, it was only natural for Dominatus to provide the audience with the stimulation that they were yearning for. Lucianus looked away, unwilling to watch a helpless man get killed in cold blood, when he heard the crowd start to murmur in confusion. Perplexed, Lucianus gazed back at the arena and was met with an unusual sight.
Dominatus’s blade hadn’t pierced Mauro’s body; it was instead stuck in the ground. The victor stood and offered a hand to help Mauro to his feet. Dominatus then placed his left hand on his opponent’s shoulder as though to commend this splendid battle, and raised his right hand gripping the sword high in the air.
In response to Dominatus’s decision, the audience erupted into thunderous applause. Some people may have grumbled a complaint or two, but they had been completely drowned out by the passionate cheers. Normally, the host of these battles had the right to determine if the loser of the battle would live or die. Since the emperor was hosting, only he could make that decision—Dominatus had no right to do so.
Azerius stood up from his seat in the balcony and stepped forward, causing the crowd to fall silent. He glanced at Dominatus and Mauro, who were kneeling in front of him, then offered a round of applause. Mauro had escaped death, and the audience burst into excitement once more. Perhaps it was only natural for Mauro to be spared, for he fought bravely, but this must’ve been a boring turn of events for Azerius. To decide the fate of the loser of a match was the climax, gathering the attention of the people, but Dominatus had stolen this highlight away. The emperor must’ve been suppressing his rage as he showered the gladiators with applause, and Dominatus gave a respectful bow.
A boy stepped forward, offering a laurel wreath, the symbol of triumph, to Dominatus, along with a huge platter of gold coins and other offerings. When Dominatus accepted the wreath, the crowd gave another round of applause. Many were chanting his name. Only the victor was allowed to leave the arena via the front arch, and Dominatus confidently marched forward like a king who ruled the place.
Suddenly, he stopped in front of the arch and gazed up at the audience, toward the nobles’ seats. Did he… Lucianus’s hunch was soon proven correct when Dominatus spotted the noble, removed his galea, and gave a wave. It was clear that the gladiator smiled at Lucianus.
“Oh my,” Juliana said. “Dominatus is usually very unfriendly, and it’s unusual for him to act like that. Is there perhaps a lady he likes in the audience?”
As she glanced around curiously, Lucianus, who sat beside her, felt his cheeks grow warm.
***
“Lord Lucianus, I suggest you get out of the bath soon,” Kaira said. “Being in the water for so long shall make your skin all wrinkly.”
He was genuinely worried about his master, who was taking a long time in the bath. Lucianus had taken his sweet time as he was lost in his thoughts.
“I’ll get out now,” Lucianus said.
He stood up and Kaira unfolded a towel while approaching his naked master. While Lucianus’s body was being dried, his mind was still filled with a certain gladiator.
“I noticed Sir Dominatus waving at you, Lord Lucianus,” Kaira remarked. “I’m quite shocked that he spotted you among that impressive crowd.”
Lucianus felt awkward for having his mind read. “We don’t know if he was waving at me,” he refuted.
“Oh, I’m quite sure he was. In any case, it was an excellent match. His movements are elegant and bold, and I’m always captivated when he fights.”
A devout follower of Dominatus, Kaira prattled on happily as he dressed Lucianus in a loose robe for bed.
“But his actions surely were insolent to the emperor,” Lucianus pointed out.
“Insolent?” Kaira inquired.
“The emperor should have had the final say in sparing Mauro’s life, not Dominatus. He should be more mindful of his actions.”
“He does as he pleases,” Kaira replied with a forced smile. “His fearlessness even in the face of the emperor adds to his popularity.”
Those actions aren’t fearless. They’re reckless and foolish. Lucianus dismissed Kaira and headed to his bedroom. He slipped into his bed lined with silk sheets and closed his eyes, but sleep wouldn’t come. Only the valiance of Dominatus flashed across his mind.
The gladiator used his brawny body to gracefully and splendidly swing his sword around. Dominatus’s battle was certainly a sight for sore eyes, and his merciful benevolence only added to his charm. But above all, Lucianus felt his heart most stirred when Dominatus had locked eyes with him and smiled with a wave. He’d felt his heart skip a beat, and an unusual tingle coursed through his body. He’d never experienced something so sweet before.
Lucianus had been out of the bath for a good while, but he felt his body grow hot at the mere thought of Dominatus. He took deep breaths, trying to calm this mysterious passion that ignited his heart, but the embers continued to glow, only making him grow warmer and showing no signs of cooling down. He even started to feel the organ below his waistcloth start to grow erect as he tossed and turned in bed with confusion. How could this be? Why is my body reacting like this while my mind is filled with that dreadful man?
Lucianus tried to hold on to that feeling of vexation, but the heat didn’t leave his body. On the contrary, his member grew harder and more erect with each passing moment, making it almost painful as it yearned for a sweet release by his hand. He knew that he couldn’t sleep like this. Resigning himself to his fate, he rolled his robe to his stomach and loosened the cloth around his waist. He reached his hand inside, grabbed his hot, pulsating phallus, and stroked the shaft vigorously. The feeling was intense, unlike anything he’d ever felt before, and it took everything he had to suppress his gasps. What’s happening? Why am I so sensitive?
Before he knew it, he had completely removed the cloth covering his lower half, his crotch on full display as he was engrossed in stroking his penis. His mind’s eye was filled with the muscular body of Dominatus on full display at the colosseum. The gladiator’s smiling face with his eyes narrowed as though he were looking at something dazzling flashed across Lucianus’s mind. As Lucianus recalled the time he was carried on Dominatus’s back, the sinewy muscles that he’d felt under his fingertips, he only felt his shameless excitement continue to grow.
“Mm… Hah…” Lucianus gasped. He did his best to suppress the sound that spilled from his mouth, and chose to focus only on moving his hands.
The pale glow of the terracotta lamp in the corner of his bedroom illuminated his smooth, white stomach. Lower down was Lucianus’s erect manhood, small droplets of transparent fluid dripping from its slit. He used his fingertips to wipe away the sticky substance and smeared it down his shaft as he continued to stroke himself. Passionate, lewd sounds reverberated through his room, making him feel even more indecent. What if Dominatus saw this embarrassing side of me?
The mere thought made more precum leak out of him, stripping away any sense of reason. He felt like he was going crazy. What if I’m in Dominatus’s arms?What if his large hand envelops my cheek as he forces a kiss upon me? Even if I tell him to stop and try to turn away, I’m sure that he’ll try to steal my lips as though they’re his. And then he’ll grip my member tightly and stroke me to the point where it’s almost painful. Yes… Just like this.
Before he knew it, Lucianus’s hand had turned into Dominatus’s; the noble masturbated imagining that he wasn’t touching himself, but being touched by another man. He was completely engrossed in his fantasy—the sensations he felt were unbelievably intoxicating. He was tempted to moan and gasp. He’d never felt like this before.
He had wanted to drown himself in this back-arching ecstasy for a few moments longer, but he couldn’t endure the pleasure. His vision grew blurry from the sheer bliss that overtook him, his body trembling from the wonderful sensation.
“Ngh…” he gasped.
White fluid spurted from his phallus, and the warm, milky substance coated his stomach. Panting for breath, he wiped his sticky fingertips onto his clothing and gave a loud exhale.
Lucianus was shocked. Never had he felt this much pleasure from masturbating. He treated the act much like how one would remove waste from their body, as a necessary procedure and nothing more. He couldn’t deny that he derived some pleasure from it, but it had never been anything special for him.
But this time it was like finally scratching an itch that he’d never been able to reach. For the first time in his life, he had experienced pure euphoria, and he was afraid of his newfound bliss.
He’d always believed that he knew himself best, but these feelings had started to waver ever since he met Dominatus. He couldn’t understand Dominatus, but Lucianus was most perplexed about himself. Why did I do this? Why did I feel so excited? Why is my mind filled with that man?
Chapter 3
Chapter 3
EVEN WHEN LUCIANUS BECAME OF SUITABLE AGE, he was never particularly attracted to women. Perhaps it was due to his straightforward nature, or perhaps his childhood memory with Juliana had traumatized him. In any case, he had assumed that he’d grown distrusting of women, but as he pleasured himself while thinking of Dominatus, another possibility popped into his head. Do I actually like men instead?
It wasn’t uncommon or discouraged for nobles to have affairs with men of lower standing as a pleasurable pastime. However, not once had Lucianus found himself attracted to a member of the same sex. He couldn’t accept that his romantic inclinations had shifted seemingly overnight.
His inquisitive mind that he usually used for his studies was now pointed at himself. He was the type to be curious about his own thoughts and wanted answers to any lingering questions. He didn’t want any mysteries. Lucianus had always been this way since he was a child.
After much agonizing, he finally concluded that paying for a male prostitute might give him a deeper understanding of his nature. And so, one morning, he posed this request to Kaira.
“I’d like to go to a brothel,” Lucianus said.
Kaira, who was tucking in hems of his master’s toga, widened his eyes and froze in place. “Huh?” he asked.
“Is it strange for me to visit a brothel?”
“N-no, nothing like that at all. I was just a bit surprised is all. I’ve recommended a brothel to you numerous times in the past, but you didn’t seem even the least bit interested. You’re of age, so it’s only natural for you to be interested in women, Lord Lucianus. In fact, you should’ve been interested in them sooner. Studying is rather splendid, but you’re still young. You should enjoy becoming intimate with women as well.”
Lucianus felt pity for Kaira, who was clearly overjoyed to learn that his eccentric master was finally interested in women, but it felt even crueler to give false hope.
“I won’t be with a woman,” Lucianus corrected. He was determined to tell the truth here. “I’d like to buy the company of a male prostitute. Could you introduce me to a place that has one?”
“A man?” Kaira asked with astonishment.
He was visibly shocked, unable to believe what he was hearing. Lucianus had expected this reaction and maintained his composure.
“Indeed, a man,” Lucianus replied. “I realized that perhaps I haven’t been interested in women not because I simply prefer to study, but because I may be into men. I’d like to hire a male prostitute and test this hypothesis.”
“I don’t think you’ve had homosexual tendencies, my lord…” Kaira replied.
“If I don’t know myself, how in the world would you know?” Lucianus asked. He came off more strongly than he expected and didn’t mean to raise his voice. “I’m sorry. Quite honestly, I have no clue. I’m admittedly a bit doubtful. But as this pertains to myself, I’d like to know about my tendencies. I can only make this sort of request to you, Kaira. Would you please take me to a brothel?”
Kaira looked reluctant upon hearing that his master was trying to purchase a man, but it was extremely rare for Lucianus to make this sort of request.
“Your wish is my command,” Kaira relented with a nod. “I do know of a man who’s knowledgeable in such affairs. I shall find the best brothel possible, so please be at ease.”
“Thank you,” Lucianus replied. “I’m always grateful for your loyalty.”
“Your words are too kind.”
Complicated emotions must’ve swirled within Kaira’s mind, but he saw through Lucianus to the awkwardness he was feeling. The servant flashed a gentle smile and lowered his head.
Kaira was competent and very quick. Within the same day, he found a brothel that was rumored to be the best in Dyna called Mrs. Skradia’s Palace, located on Kethria Street. It was an exclusive, expensive brothel where members were accepted via invitation only. Though the place cost a good bit more than the usual, guests could enjoy beautiful men and women who had been gathered from around the globe. It was renowned for the sheer variety of prostitutes that were available.
“Unlike Bertiaka Palace, they don’t handle children, and the expensive price tag means that only nobles and the wealthy are allowed to go there,” Kaira explained. “Which implies that customers who use the place are of high birth. It’s a brothel where one can relax and enjoy themselves. What would you like to do, my lord?”
“Sounds good to me,” Lucianus replied. “I shall head there tomorrow afternoon.”
Kaira looked tempted to say a few words, but he held his tongue, believing that this was an important step forward in adulthood for Lucianus.
The next day, Lucianus left the manor with Kaira in tow; the servant looked rather restless, but Lucianus didn’t seem at all nervous. Though he’d never held any sexual relations with another person, since he’d be with a professional, he believed he could entrust everything to the other party. All he wanted to do was to gauge his sexual inclination as he was doing the act.
At a glance, Mrs. Skradia’s Palace on Kethria Street resembled an expensive residence. It didn’t look like a brothel. When Kaira knocked on the iron door, a small window opened, and a man peeked out.
“We’ve been introduced by Olnax,” Kaira said, placing a single silver derrita into the man’s hand, as customers had to partially pay their fees in advance. The doors opened, and Lucianus and Kaira were ushered inside. Despite its more mundane exterior, the interior was anything but a normal house.
Sofas lined the entrance hall, and young men and women were elegantly seated on top, smiling at their customers. Both the men and the women only had a thin piece of cloth tied around their waists, leaving them all practically naked. Numerous gold chains adorned their chests and waists, and with every movement, a bewitching glimmer flashed on their breasts and stomachs. A sweet scent filled the brothel, the aroma so thick that it was almost intoxicating. Was it incense? The doors in the back opened, and an elderly woman approached, her white hair tied up neatly. Lucianus guessed that she was Mrs. Skradia.
“Welcome, dear noble,” she said. “I thank you for visiting my palace. I’ve prepared the best butterflies for you, so that you may enjoy your time here to the fullest. Now then, I ask that you choose the butterfly that you desire.”
It seemed the prostitutes here were referred to as “butterflies.”
“Any man will do,” Lucianus replied.
“You mustn’t say that, noble one,” the mistress said. “Even a butterfly has pride. No one will be happy to serve you should anyone do for your desires. I ask that you please choose a butterfly that appeals to you and shower them with your utmost affection.”
Lucianus felt embarrassed to receive such a warning. No doubt she saw him as a young man who had no manners.
“I apologize, mistress,” Lucianus said. “This is my first time ever being in a place such as this, and I have no idea what etiquette or rules to follow. I ask that you forgive my insolent attitude.”
“Oh my, you’re quite the honest one, aren’t you? Then just for today, why don’t I specially choose our best and most perfect butterfly for you? Cornicines, will you please call Raifa for me?”
The man stationed behind her nodded and left. After a short while, a man with glossy, dark hair tied behind his head emerged from the depths of the palace. He looked to be only a few years older than Lucianus. This man, Raifa, was shockingly gorgeous. His dark skin gave off a dull luster, and his dark eyelashes perfectly framed his dark eyes. A single glance from him would surely bewitch anyone in his path. Coupled with his long limbs and beautiful, firm muscles, his elegant physique was like a work of art. His graceful steps were reminiscent of a black panther.
“Raifa, this is our noble guest’s first time with us,” the mistress said. “He’s not used to playing with butterflies.”
“So I’ve heard,” the man replied. He turned to Lucianus. “Noble guest, welcome. My name is Raifa.”
The mistress looked to Kaira. “As for your attendant, I ask that he wait in a room over there.”
Kaira reluctantly left.
“This way, please,” Raifa said.
He guided Lucianus deeper into the building, the corridor continuing on for a good while. Doors lined on either side, implying that there were many rooms. The shrill moans of women and the gruff cries of men could be heard from beyond the doors. Raifa stopped in front of a certain door and opened it. Inside the room, glossy, satin textiles hung from the ceiling, and the space was decorated with intricate ornaments. There was also a canopy bed and a sofa, and Lucianus decided to take a seat on the sofa.
“Mrs. Skradia has taken a liking to you,” Raifa said. “It’s extremely rare for her to send me to a first-time customer.”
He sat beside Lucianus and poured a glass of wine from a bottle on the table. Lucianus took the glass that was placed in front of him and gazed at the beautiful prostitute’s face.
“Where are you from?” Lucianus asked.
“From a faraway land in the east,” Raifa replied. “I doubt you’d know of the name even if I mentioned it. It’s a nation of poverty, comprised mostly of desert, but I was brought to Dyna when I was a young child. My memories of my birthplace are quite fuzzy. May I ask for your name?”
“Lucianus.”
“Master Lucianus. A splendid name. May I ask why you’re here at a brothel? A handsome man such as yourself can surely seduce any man or woman that you wish. Do you perhaps have a special interest that you’d like to keep secret?” He poured more wine into Lucianus’s empty glass.
“I don’t know the touch of a man or a woman. I came here to confirm my true desires.”
“What a waste. I can hardly believe that a man as beautiful as you has never experienced any sort of intimacy.”
“I was simply never interested in it. In fact, I’d seen romance as troublesome. And yet…” Lucianus trailed off. He thought that he’d said too much, and gulped his wine down.
Raifa saw through him, regardless. “You found someone you’re interested in. I’m certain that the man on the receiving end of your affection is very lucky. May I ask what kind of person he is?”
Lucianus didn’t like to be peppered with questions. He stood up and started to remove his toga.
“Sorry, but I didn’t come here to talk,” he said. “I don’t mean to rush you, but could you please begin?”
Raifa looked up at Lucianus in astonishment. “You’re a lot more masculine than you look.”
He stopped Lucianus’s hands and skillfully removed the toga. Raifa then took Lucianus’s hand and led him to bed.
“If you’ve any wishes, please tell me,” Raifa said. “I’ll do whatever you desire.”
“I’ll leave it to you,” Lucianus replied. “I don’t know what I want to do or what I want done to me.”
“You’re adorable.” Raifa flashed another one of his bewitching smiles as he crouched down while letting Lucianus sit on the bed. “Your words will make me want to forget about work and enjoy myself.”
“It may be work, but surely, it’s no easy feat. Flattering your customers must be exhausting.”
Raifa giggled and placed a hand on Lucianus’s knee. “I’m not providing empty flattery. I don’t deny that doing so is part of my work, but I truly think that you’re an adorable person.”
Raifa’s hand snuck under Lucianus’s clothes and stroked Lucianus’s thighs. His fingers crawled up even farther and rubbed against the cloth below Lucianus’s waist. While Lucianus was preoccupied with the fingers that teased his genitalia, he noticed Raifa’s other hand was reaching back to stroke his behind, the fingers gentle with a feminine touch. Lucianus didn’t expect this turn of events as he felt a finger trace down the cleft of his buttocks. Even from above the cloth, he could clearly tell where Raifa was heading.
He immediately grabbed Raifa’s arm to give a word of warning. “You mustn’t do anything unforgivable.”
“Do you not like your being touched there?” Raifa asked.
“You may touch, but you’re trying to put your fingers inside, aren’t you?”
“I am. Is that a problem?”
Lucianus was shocked by Raifa’s confused reply.
“The men of Dyna are not slept with like women,” Lucianus explained. “Doing so is one of the most shameful things to a man. Do you not know of this?”
This nation allowed homosexuality, but there were still ground rules that had to be kept. If a Dyna man were to have sexual relations with another man, the former could only be intimate with men of lower rank. In addition, the former could not take the role of a woman—that is, to be penetrated by another man. If word ever got out that a Dyna man was on the receiving end, he would be disparaged by society.
“Oh, I’m well aware of that. But those rules are to maintain appearances,” Raifa said. He sat beside Lucianus and whispered, “Here, such a thing is not unusual for a man wanting to be held by another man. I had another nobleman—one of our regulars—ask for me yesterday. His body was masculine and splendid, but he wept tears of joy as I penetrated him. It’s not uncommon at all. Some love to be lashed by whips of slave women while other men receive excitement from being penetrated with a dildo by a boy. A person’s desire cannot be bound by laws or rules.”
“I find that hard to believe,” Lucianus replied. He’d thought that these rules were absolute, and was shocked to hear how debauched the bottomless desires of humans could be.
Raifa smiled and clutched Lucianus’s hand. “You’re still rather innocent, Master Lucianus.”
“The word you’re looking for is ‘ignorant,’” Lucianus replied. “I don’t deny my inexperience. The only thing I’ve got is my studies, so I know that I must be a dreadfully boring man.”
“I don’t see you that way. Your heart and body are still very pure, and that is extremely appealing to me. What I said earlier wasn’t a lie. I’d love to forget my work and spoil you with everything I’ve got.”
Raifa placed a hand on Lucianus’s cheek, drew his beautiful face close, and planted a kiss on his lips. Raifa’s skillful tongue made Lucianus’s mind grow numb. The noble had once been insulted by Juliana for his lack of skill, and when he compared himself to Raifa’s technique, he couldn’t deny it. Lucianus felt like his clumsy kisses resembled a toddler trying to suck his mother’s breast.
“I shall hold you first,” Raifa said. “You may then penetrate me next.”
He’ll show me how it’s done, Lucianus thought. He still was reluctant to be penetrated, but he started to believe that he could leave it all to Raifa. He makes me feel that way.
“Please be at ease,” Raifa reassured. “Anything that goes on within this bedroom won’t be publicized. It’ll just be a secret between you and me, Master Lucianus. Now then, will you entrust your body to me?”
Raifa gently laid Lucianus down onto the bed. As they kissed, Lucianus felt his entire body being touched. When Raifa removed the cloth around Lucianus’s waist and directly touched his penis, he found himself more embarrassed than excited.
“Are you nervous?” Raifa asked.
He gently gripped Lucianus’s member, but it remained soft in his palm. Am I nervous? Lucianus asked himself the question, but no answer came to mind. It just seemed like he was more reluctant about this entire affair than he’d expected. His thought process was rather simple. He didn’t care what man he slept with—he simply thought that doing so would deepen his understanding of himself. However, it seemed such intimacy with another person wasn’t so clear-cut. He was suddenly overcome with a sense of self-loathing. Despite his adult age, he hadn’t understood a matter so simple, and immediately thought that he was shallow-minded. Even if I can study well, I know nothing about the real world. I don’t even understand myself. Lucianus began to feel that it wasn’t right to try to understand these inexplicable feelings he held for Dominatus in this fashion.
“I’m sorry, Raifa,” Lucianus said. He sat up and pushed the prostitute’s shoulder back. “You’ve done enough.”
Raifa cocked his head to one side in befuddlement as though to ask if anything was wrong.
“It was wrong for me to use this method to try to understand myself,” Lucianus explained. “I shall go home. Of course, I shall pay in full for this session.”
“Am I not to your liking?” Raifa asked.
“No, you’re a beautiful and bewitching man. There’s no fault on your end.”
“Then did you perhaps get scared?”
Lucianus knew that Raifa was provoking him. Raifa had his pride as a prostitute, and it was only natural for him to be angered for being refused.
“I came here because I wanted to understand myself better,” Lucianus said. “But I realize now that it was the wrong decision. What I should confirm isn’t whether I’m a homosexual or not, but how I truly feel toward the man that I’m interested in, and what I want to do from there. These aren’t answers that I can attain by sleeping with another man.”
Upon seeing Lucianus’s unwavering expression, Raifa sighed. “I suppose that’s that.” He stepped off the bed. “A male prostitute shouldn’t force himself on a customer. It’s a shame, but I shall end our session here. I cannot bear the responsibility of neatly tucking in your toga just as it was when you arrived. I shall call for your attendant, so I ask that you please wait here.” With that, Raifa took his leave.
As Lucianus was tidying himself in his toga, he heard a loud voice from the corridor. A drunken man was bellowing with rage.
“Please, I ask that you calm yourself!” a woman cried. “You’ll disturb the other customers!”
“Silence!” the man yelled. “Where’s Miina? Call her for me!”
“Miina is not here today. I’ve told you so several times already.”
Mrs. Skradia was handling a rowdy customer. Though the customers of this brothel were all wealthy, it appeared that didn’t equate to having manners. In fact, wealthy people were more prone to becoming overbearing and arrogant.
“Where did you hide Miina?!” the man roared. “Is she here?”
The door suddenly opened, and a large, red-faced man entered the room. He spotted Lucianus sitting on the bed and gave a gasp of astonishment.
“What a beautiful male prostitute!” the man shouted. “I had no idea that such a splendid man was here.”
“Sir! He is not a prostitute!” Mrs. Skradia cried. “Please leave this room at once!”
But the man ignored the mistress’s stern warning.
“Shut up!” he roared. He pushed her out onto the hall and closed the door, locking it from the inside.
Lucianus was left stunned in shock. He had already put on his waistcloth, but he hadn’t tied the belt around his tunic yet.
“You,” the man said. He reeked of liquor as he headed toward the bed. “I’ll buy you, so hurry up and strip.”
“Don’t come near me,” Lucianus glared. “I’m not a prostitute. I’m here as a customer.”
“Don’t make me laugh. A child like you, here as a customer? I’ll pamper you, so stop your silly lies and bend over for me.”
Even if the man was a drunk, there was a line of insolence that Lucianus wouldn’t let him cross without consequence. Lucianus stood up and slapped the approaching man hard. “You impudent buffoon. I’m a noble. My name is Lucianus Carusso Emilius. Tell me your name.”
“You… I suppose you haven’t been trained yet, you whore,” the man growled.
In his fury, he pushed Lucianus onto the bed and forcefully tried to remove the noble’s clothes. Lucianus struggled as much as he could to prevent this process, and in this scuffle, his tunic ripped.
“Stop this at once! Don’t touch me!” Lucianus shouted. He started hitting his assailant’s head over and over again, trying only to get the man off his body.
“You brat!” the man growled. He slapped Lucianus across the face. The impact was so intense that Lucianus felt his mind grow dull, and he almost lost consciousness for a split second. “A noble? Yeah right. A whore who’s gone crazy is in need of a good punishment.”
While Lucianus was stunned, his waistcloth was undone, his entire body completely naked now. The drunken man revealed his own erect cock, and rage bubbled up within Lucianus’s mind. Like hell I’ll be defiled by this man! He kicked the approaching man’s crotch as hard as he could.
“Gah!” the man screamed.
As he inched back in pain, the doors to the room were broken wide open, and someone barged in. Lucianus was shocked to see the man who entered—Dominatus. When Dominatus saw a naked Lucianus sprawled on the bed, his face contorted with wrath.
“Ouch… Hey, you over there!” the drunkard roared angrily at Dominatus. The former had mistaken the latter for a store employee. “This prostitute is crazy! He kicked a customer’s groin! What kind of training does this place—”
Before the man could finish, Dominatus’s fist sent him flying to the corner of the room.
“You’re the one who’s gone crazy,” Dominatus said. “You may be drunk, but trying to force yourself on a customer of this brothel is unbelievably barbaric.”
The drunken man must’ve hit his head hard against the wall—he was knocked out and unable to get back up. Lucianus clutched his ripped clothes and hid his lower half. He was at a loss for words, astonished that Dominatus was here, and humiliated that such an embarrassing moment was seen.
“Lord Lucianus!” Kaira cried. Pale-faced, he rushed to his master’s side to hug him tight. “Are you hurt? How awful… You’re bleeding from your nose. That man hit you, didn’t he?”
“It’s nothing much,” Lucianus replied.
He wiped his nose with his clothes as he put up a tough front. In truth, the half of his face that had been struck was still throbbing with pain, and he was starting to grow dizzy.
“Toss this man out at once! And remember the face of this drunken oaf very well,” Mrs. Skradia ordered. She was so enraged that Lucianus could see a vein bulging on her forehead. “The next time he shows his face around here, be sure to fling horse manure at him!”
Dominatus brought the toga that was on the sofa and placed it around Lucianus’s bare shoulders. Lucianus stood up to wrap the clothing around his body.
“Why are you here?” Lucianus asked.
“I happened past your room, and Mrs. Skradia came to me for help, telling me that a man was assaulting another customer,” Dominatus replied.
In other words, you were here to buy a woman to sleep with. Even in this situation, Lucianus couldn’t suppress his curiosity to learn about Dominatus’s type.
“I didn’t know you were the one being attacked,” Dominatus continued. “What rotten luck. You came to sleep with a woman, but you got attacked instead. It must be an unfortunate ordeal for you.” While Dominatus’s tone was sympathetic, his eyes were twinkling with amusement.
No doubt he finds me to be a dull-witted man. To Lucianus’s frustration, he couldn’t be infuriated at a man who came to his rescue.
“You have my deepest apologies, Master Lucianus,” Raifa said. He kneeled in front of his customer and looked up at Lucianus, apologizing from the bottom of his heart. “It’s my fault for leaving you all alone.”
Lucianus shook his head. “It’s not your fault. Don’t let this bother you.”
“I’m eternally grateful for your kind words. I would be most overjoyed if you didn’t let this horrible experience affect you. If you ever decide to visit us again, please be sure to ask for me.”
Raifa took Lucianus’s hand and planted a kiss on it. Lucianus knew that there likely wouldn’t be a next time, but he found it rude to voice his thoughts here. He gave a silent nod in response. Just then, he grew dizzy and reached out to grab Dominatus’s arm.
“Do you feel ill?” Dominatus inquired.
“No, I just lost my balance for a moment,” Lucianus replied.
“It might be from the blow you sustained. When you feel dizzy, you shouldn’t walk by yourself. If you faint and hit your head, you’ll have an even more serious injury. Mrs. Skradia, I shall deliver Lucianus to his home. Will you prepare a carriage?”
“Most certainly,” the mistress replied. “I shall prepare one immediately. You may leave from the back exit.”
Dominatus didn’t wait for Lucianus’s consent and scooped up the noble in his arms. Once again, Lucianus found himself carried like a woman, but before he could protest, Dominatus opened his mouth.
“Bear with me for today,” Dominatus said. “You’re all wrapped up in your toga, so I really have no other option.”
Lucianus was still reluctant, but he no longer had the energy to fight back and closed his mouth. Still in Dominatus’s arms, the noble was carried into the carriage in the back with Kaira in tow. Once they were all inside, the carriage started to creak forward.
“Stay lying down,” Dominatus said. He placed Lucianus’s head on his lap.
Lucianus was annoyed to be ordered around, but as he felt Dominatus’s warmth, the noble found his heart pounding.
Once they returned to House Carusso, Lucianus was dressed in a new set of clothes. He returned to the guest room, where Dominatus sat on the sofa while sipping on some wine. He was drinking all alone; perhaps the slaves had all been chased out.
“Are you still dizzy?” Dominatus asked.
“I’m fine,” Lucianus replied. “This is the second time you’ve come to my aid. Thank you.”
“No need for your gratitude. Could you sit next to me and pour me another glass? Surely you can do that for your savior.”
Dominatus raised his glass in the air as relaxed as though he was in his own home. This man had been constantly showered with praise, but Lucianus was more annoyed with each and every word that Dominatus uttered. I suppose this is what “incompatibility” means.
But as Lucianus obediently sat beside Dominatus to pour him a glass of wine, he felt a sense of yearning well up beside his frustration. For the first time in his life, Lucianus was overcome with complex emotions and had no idea how to deal with them.
“You came to cheer me on at my last gladiator match,” Dominatus said.
“I was indeed there, but I wasn’t cheering for you,” Lucianus retorted, almost out of habit. Lucianus was disappointed in himself for being so prickly with his remarks, and he wanted to sew his mouth shut with a needle and thread. Dominatus, however, didn’t seem upset.
“That’s good enough for me,” he smiled. “I was able to win only because I received the blessing of the Goddess of Victory.”
“That nonsense again?” Lucianus replied. “Something must be wrong with you if you can superimpose the image of a man over a goddess.”
“Don’t say that. You truly do resemble the statue of Shanora very well.” Dominatus poured himself another glass of wine as he switched subjects. “In any case, that incident earlier truly gave me quite a shock. And I didn’t think you’d gone to a brothel to buy a man instead of a woman. You’ve got an adorable face, but you’re quite assertive. Who would’ve imagined that you prefer men?”
Dominatus grinned as he stared at Lucianus’s profile. The noble was vexed to be teased by the very man that had inspired him to visit a brothel, but he tried his best to hide his thoughts. “That’s none of your business,” he replied coldly. “You don’t have to go to a brothel either, do you? I’m sure that countless women are swooning for you. Why would you pay good money to sleep with one?”
“Experienced women are easier to deal with,” Dominatus said. “They temporarily shower you with endless amounts of affection.”
He doesn’t want to be tied down to another woman, I see. He speaks like a man who’s popular with the ladies.
“Raifa’s a good one, isn’t he?” Dominatus added. “I’m rather fond of him as well.”
Lucianus couldn’t believe his ears at this unexpected confession. “You’ve bought Raifa in the past too?”
“When I’ve grown tired of women, I sometimes hold him in my arms. And which role are you? Do you penetrate him? Or does he penetrate you?”
Dominatus’s inquisitive gaze made Lucianus’s heart leap out of his chest. If the noble told the truth and confessed that he went to a brothel, but wasn’t able to do any acts of intimacy, he felt like he would lose dignity as a man. He didn’t want to be mocked any further, and hesitated to reply. Dominatus took this silence as an answer and jumped to his own conclusions.
“Ah, so you were penetrated by him,” he said. “There’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Be it a noble or a knight, many men like to be on the receiving end.”
Lucianus didn’t quite know what to feel. He was glad that he wasn’t met with contempt, but Dominatus was someone who could sleep with a man, and was familiar with Raifa. Clearly, the two men had been quite intimate with each other numerous times in the past, and simply imagining it made Lucianus’s chest pang with sadness. He felt gloomier by the second.
Is this jealousy? Am I jealous to learn that Dominatus has slept with Raifa? Only then did Lucianus realize that he was on the verge of tears. He had no choice but to admit his true feelings. I’m in love. I’m in love with Dominatus. So, this is how it feels… I’m always thinking about him, and I can’t suppress my pounding heart every time I’m with him. And yet, I’m unable to be honest and end up being stubborn. I feel sharp pain thinking that he’s close with another person, and I become inexplicably sad. Does love sway my heart so violently that I’m forced to feel a thousand feelings in quick succession? Lucianus felt like he couldn’t maintain his composure in silence, and spoke whatever was on his mind.
“I heard that gladiators are often bought by women,” he said. “Is this true for you too?”
“When I was still a slave, yes,” Dominatus replied. “But now that I’ve got the right to refuse, I rarely accept these requests.”
“Rarely? So you still accept from time to time?”
Dominatus placed his empty glass on the table and shrugged. “I have to, sometimes. I’m indebted to my former master and manager of the arena. If he begs me, I’ll sleep with a woman so that he won’t lose face.”
“Have any men tried to buy you?”
“I refuse any requests from men. I love to make a woman cry out, but I wouldn’t want to hear a man moaning and gasping for air.”
“But you sleep with Raifa.”
“He’s special,” Dominatus grinned. “His bewitching appearance and techniques are a form of art. You know that very well, don’t you?”
Asking all these questions only made Lucianus feel more troubled. He silently poured more wine into Dominatus’s empty glass. Just as he was about to place the jar of liquor back onto the table, Dominatus reached out to grab his wrist.
“Wh-what?” Lucianus asked. He braced himself, afraid that his lie of sleeping with Raifa had been sniffed out, but he was soon proven wrong.
“You seem to be awfully curious about me,” Dominatus said. “Especially my bedroom tendencies. Are you interested in me? Let’s see… I suppose I wouldn’t mind being bought by you.”
A strong emotion washed over Lucianus—it was neither humiliation nor rage. His body grew warm in an instant as though he was on fire.
“Nobody’s thinking anything of the sort!” Lucianus cried. He shook himself free of Dominatus’s grip and turned away. Lucianus’s heart was pounding, and his hands were trembling.
“Did I misunderstand you?” Dominatus asked. “Then I apologize for my crude remark. Now then, since I’ve had plenty of your expensive liquor, I suppose I shall take my leave. You should rest easy at least for today.”
His back still turned, Lucianus felt Dominatus rise to leave. His beloved was about to excuse himself, and regret filled Lucianus’s chest. He could only curse his short-tempered nature. Dominatus had extended an invitation, and yet, Lucianus had squandered his chance. Perhaps the two would never be able to talk in isolation like this. It had been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity bestowed upon by Awla, the God of Love, and Lucianus had let it go to waste like a complete fool. As despair clouded his mind, the words of Juliana flashed across his mind.
“If not for romance, then where else shall I become a fool?”
They echoed in his heart as though they were the words from the gods. She’s right. This is exactly where I shall turn into a fool. Lucianus mustered up his courage.
“Wait, Dominatus,” Lucianus said. He whirled around to face his beloved.
Dominatus froze and tilted his head to one side. “Yes?”
“Your words earlier weren’t a lie, were they?”
“Which words are you talking about exactly?”
“You claimed that you wouldn’t mind being bought by me.”
“Ah, so I did,” Dominatus nodded. “I did say that. What of it?”
“I’d like to buy you.” Lucianus felt like his heart was about to jump out of his chest.
Dominatus remained expressionless as he gazed at Lucianus. “Why?”
Why? Because I love you. I want you. I want to make you mine. Lucianus was able to be honest in his mind, but he couldn’t utter his thoughts aloud. This was his first love, and he was terrified that he’d be ridiculed if he spoke his true feelings.
“Because it’s troublesome to go to a brothel,” Lucianus lied. “I’ve got to worry about attracting the attention of others, and as you saw today, I could be put in dangerous situations. But you’ll come to my manor, won’t you?”
“If you want a man for convenience, you should ask someone else,” Dominatus said.
Seemingly having lost all interest, Dominatus turned once more to leave. Lucianus was tempted to clobber his own head with both hands. Mrs. Skradia had told him that no one would be happy to hear that anyone would do, and yet he’d gone and repeated the same mistake.
“Wait, let me correct myself,” Lucianus called. “To tell you the truth, I’m interested in you. I would like to experience a night in bed with you, the best gladiator there is. I’d like to be held by your muscular body.”
Dominatus hadn’t seemed repulsed when he assumed that Lucianus wanted to be penetrated by another man. And so, Lucianus felt that it was better to be direct. Since Dominatus had already assumed that Lucianus slept with Raifa, it was the perfect opportunity to utilize this misunderstanding. Dominatus turned on his heel and strode to Lucianus’s side.
“Very well,” Dominatus said. “It feels nice to be so honestly pined for by another person. You may buy me from today onward, and I shall be your prostitute.”
There was a fierce light in Dominatus’s eyes as he faintly smiled. Lucianus felt like a small animal, trembling in fear in the face of a predator, trying desperately to flee. Dominatus placed a hand under Lucianus’s chin and kissed him passionately. Instinctively, Lucianus tried to turn away, but his face was locked in place by powerful arms, making it impossible to flee. It was completely different from Raifa’s gentle kisses. This kiss was so passionate and rough that Lucianus started to fear that he’d be swallowed whole, and his lips and tongue would be ripped to shreds.
After this intense locking of lips, Dominatus used his thumb to roughly wipe Lucianus’s mouth, wet from the gladiator’s spit. Lucianus felt his lips twist and contort under the rugged thumb. Dominatus flashed another faint smile. Lucianus, fearing that his pathetic expression would be mocked, struck the gladiator across the cheek.
“I said that I wanted to buy you, but that doesn’t mean you can do as you please!” the noble shouted.
“I don’t care who buys me. I’m not a man who will walk on eggshells to try to gauge your feelings,” Dominatus replied. “If you don’t like that, find another man. But if you’re still fine with me, call me whenever you like. If I’m nearby, I won’t mind paying you a visit.”
After stroking Lucianus’s cheek one last time, Dominatus left. Lucianus was angered by the man’s audacity, but his lips had been so fiery and hot. There was undoubtedly a part of Lucianus that yearned for his next meeting with the gladiator.
Chapter 4
Chapter 4
AS LUCIANUS WAS WRITING IN HIS STUDY, KAIRA approached him.
“Lord Lucianus, the messenger has returned,” Kaira reported. “Sir Dominatus shall be here tonight, so I shall pay him beforehand.”
The day had finally come. Dominatus would be here tonight.
“Don’t let anyone approach my bedroom,” Lucianus ordered.
“Of course,” Kaira replied. He gazed at his master, tempted to say more.
“What?”
“I apologize for my insolence, but please allow me to confirm with you one last time. Are you sure that you won’t have any regrets?”
The servant was worried that Lucianus would be entrusting his body to a man of lower rank. Kaira’s worries were warranted, but it was far too late to turn back now. Lucianus’s love was growing by the day, and he knew that there was nothing he could do.
“This is the only method I’ve got. Please understand,” Lucianus said.
Kaira cast a pitiful gaze at his master before leaving the study.
That night, Dominatus arrived as promised. This visit was under the guise of the lord of House Carusso inviting a popular gladiator into his home, and Dominatus was presented with some liquor and a light meal on the sofa in the living room.
“Do you want to wash yourself first?” Lucianus offered. “The bath is ready.”
“I’d be grateful to use it,” Dominatus replied. “I was so busy today that I had no time to visit the public bath. I envy those wealthy enough to have a bath at home so that they can clean themselves whenever they wish.”
“Surely you can do the same if you save a bit of money. I heard that you give away all your earnings to the impoverished.”
“I have no need for vast amounts of money,” Dominatus answered. “As long as I have enough to eat every day, that’s enough for me.”
“Then why do you continue being a gladiator? Do you enjoy the attention and cheers of the crowd?”
“I just want to fight. I don’t feel like I’m alive if I’m not battling someone.”
Lucianus couldn’t possibly understand this mindset. His feeling of being alive can only be attained through battles? I wonder how it feels, Lucianus wondered.
“Why don’t you bathe with me?” Dominatus asked.
“I’ve already taken a bath,” Lucianus replied.
“I’m saying that it’s boring bathing alone. Come with me.”
Worn down by the incessant request, Lucianus reluctantly entered the bath with the gladiator. Dominatus had also asked for a massage, so Lucianus called for a skilled slave to do just that. The gladiator was lying face down on a bed for the massage, his splendid body on full display. Still in the bath, Lucianus used this opportunity to take a good look; he knew that Dominatus wouldn’t notice. Dominatus’s body was lathered in oil, his glistening, magnificent muscles giving off a glow of divinity. He was also covered in scars and old wounds. Usually, this would be a sore sight for the eyes, but Lucianus found them to be unbelievably enticing. Scars were badges of honor for a man. Lucianus started to grow embarrassed of his own slender frame.
Once the massage was done, Dominatus slipped into the bath beside Lucianus. Noticing the noble was nervous about the night ahead of them, Dominatus reached out to touch his head.
“Your hair is beautiful,” Dominatus said. “Even wet, your hair is dazzling vibrantly. Wealthy women like to dye their hair blonde, but I find it unfortunate. Doing so makes their hair damaged and brittle. Your gorgeous golden locks must be the target of envy for many women.”
Lucianus shook off the mischievous fingers toying with the ends of his hair. “I don’t care about hair color,” he grumbled.
“I’m complimenting you. There’s no need for you to get angry. You’d be a lot cuter if you took compliments more honestly.”
Dominatus’s sigh made Lucianus feel a pang of sadness. He wasn’t angry; he was simply trying to hide his embarrassment.
“I don’t need to be cute,” Lucianus added. “You should go to women if you want something like that.”
My stupid mouth! He bit down hard on his own lips as if to scold them for only spouting unpleasant words.
Lucianus was still feeling down as they finished bathing, and he guided Dominatus into the bedroom. Worried that his nasty remarks dampened the mood, Lucianus stopped in front of the bed.
“Dominatus, do you want the light—”
But Lucianus never got to finish his statement about whether the light should be put out. Like a sneak attack, Dominatus’s strong arms wrapped around Lucianus’s slender frame from behind, and squeezed tightly.
“How do you like to be held?” Dominatus whispered into Lucianus’s ears. The gladiator’s hot breath teased the noble’s earlobe. “Tell me.”
“Y-you can do as you like,” Lucianus replied. “I want to know how you become intimate.”
“I see. Then I’ll do as I like.”
Lucianus’s loose robe was stripped off him. They’d been naked together in the bath, but doing the same in the bedroom felt completely different. Why am I feeling so embarrassed? Lucianus felt even his ears turn red. Dominatus pushed the naked Lucianus onto the bed with a faint smile, staring intently at the noble’s body. Lucianus felt ashamed; surely, Dominatus was laughing at his frail, thin frame.
“How many men have you slept with?” Dominatus asked.
Lucianus was silent for a moment, then he answered, “I don’t remember.”
“That many? You’ve got a cute, innocent face, but you’re rather bold, aren’t you?”
Dominatus placed himself above Lucianus and kissed him. It was as passionate as their first kiss, and Lucianus’s mouth was ravished. Why does this man kiss so violently? Just then, Lucianus felt a warm hand brush against his chest, rub against his waist, and glide down to grip his buttocks. The large hand that massaged him was so comforting, and he almost let out a gasp of pleasure.
Dominatus was like a storm.
After gently caressing Lucianus’s body, Dominatus immediately switched to a passionate shower of affection. The noble had no time to process this first intimate experience as he felt himself smothered within the arms of his partner.
“Dominatus, what are you…” Lucianus started.
As he was gasping for air, his legs were opened wide as if he were a baby getting his diaper changed. He felt like he was about to die from embarrassment.
“I’ll suck your cock while stretching your anus,” Dominatus said. “Hold your legs and keep them open.”
For the first time in his life, Lucianus experienced fellatio, and it was a shocking sensation. As Dominatus’s wet and hot mouth enveloped Lucianus’s cock, he was unable to stifle his voice, allowing sweet gasps to escape his lips. Dominatus used his tongue skillfully and passionately like a beast devouring a piece of meat. He was taking his time, slowly tasting Lucianus’s cock.
All the while, oil-drenched fingers slipped into Lucianus’s hole. This act was also a first for him as his back trembled at this unusual sensation. He felt fingers penetrate his opening, and his body throbbed with inexplicable excitement, though it was still far from pleasure.
“You’re tight,” Dominatus said. “I’m pretty big, so I’m not sure if I’ll fit.”
“You will,” Lucianus immediately replied. “I’ve enjoyed myself with men bigger than you. Your unimpressive size will be no issue.” Lucianus simply didn’t want their time to end, and he tried to convey that he was fine, but thorny remarks tumbled out of his mouth instead.
“I’m sorry to be so unimpressive,” Dominatus replied. His tone was grumpy, but he seemed more fired up than ever before.
Lucianus was flipped onto his stomach with his lower half thrust out high in the air. The mere thought of even his most intimate spots being seen made him writhe with embarrassment, his hips trembling on their own.
“You’re skilled at seducing others,” Dominatus said. “Why don’t you stick your ass out in a more enticing manner? Enchant me.”
Dominatus’s large hand slapped Lucianus’s buttocks, the sound of it ringing through the room. Lucianus gave a loud gasp of surprise.
“What was that? You sounded like you stepped on a kitten,” Dominatus chuckled. He spanked Lucianus once more.
Normally, Lucianus would be infuriated by such insolence, being forced to be a part of such a humiliating act. But for some reason, a part of him was excited to have his ass slapped by Dominatus.
When Raifa had mentioned that some men would derive joy from being whipped by slave women, Lucianus could hardly believe it, but now, he was gradually starting to understand why such a thing could be exciting.
As Dominatus had requested, Lucianus let out another sweet cry from the impact, and he arched his back to stick out his butt.
“A fine view,” Dominatus said.
He gently stroked Lucianus’s ass, his own member standing tall and erect. The sheer thought of something so large penetrating Lucianus made him go crazy with anxiety and anticipation. The thick cock, slick with oil, was pressed against Lucianus’s opening. The tight hole was forced open by the large manhood, and Lucianus was overcome with fear; a penis was much thicker than a finger, and he feared that his hole might tear. Lucianus endured the pain and the suffocating pressure he felt as he managed to swallow Dominatus’s genitalia.
“You’re tight,” Dominatus grunted. “Does it hurt at all?”
“It…doesn’t hurt,” Lucianus replied. “Quit dawdling. Move already.” He assumed it was more painful to take it slow.
The gladiator, perhaps miffed to receive a complaint for worrying about his partner, grabbed Lucianus’s waist and gave a powerful thrust.
Lucianus almost cried out in pain, but he managed to press his lips shut and stifle his gasps. Dominatus remained silent and continued to ravage Lucianus’s body, and it mattered not just how much Lucianus tried to endure it all. With every violent thrust, gasps leaked from his lips, and Lucianus could only try his best to act like he was experiencing pleasure—he didn’t want to sound like he was in agonizing pain. Thankfully, screams of pain didn’t differ much from cries of pleasure, and Lucianus was certain that Dominatus assumed that he was feeling ecstasy. I can only hope that he misunderstands me.
Dominatus gave a low grunt and released his seed inside of Lucianus. Though relieved to be freed from the pain, Lucianus felt a touch lonely now that it was all over. Dominatus laid over his partner and started to shower Lucianus with kisses, planting his lips onto the noble’s neck and shoulders. Lucianus received these acts of affection in a daze, but for some reason, he then felt a sharp bite on his collarbone. Even he couldn’t tolerate this pain.
“Ouch!” Lucianus yelped.
He pushed Dominatus’s head away, and the gladiator frowned as he stepped off the bed.
“Why did you bite me?” Lucianus asked. He rubbed his shoulder where a bite mark was blooming.
“I just felt like it,” Dominatus said gruffly.
He sounded angry, but Lucianus couldn’t possibly understand why. Dominatus silently started to get dressed. It made Lucianus sad to think that Dominatus was ready to leave, now that he had done what was needed. I guess he has no intention of staying in bed with me until morning. I paid for his company, after all.
“Dominatus, if I call for you, will you come again?” Lucianus inquired.
Atop the bed, he couldn’t hide his anxiety. Dominatus, who was already dressed, opened the door and turned back to the noble.
“I’ll think about it,” the gladiator said.
***
It was crystal clear that Dominatus wasn’t fully satisfied with his romantic night with Lucianus; the attitude he exhibited after their tryst was quite cold. Still, he didn’t decline the possibility of a future invitation. Desperation filled Lucianus’s mind as he invited Dominatus over two weeks later. It seemed there was no need to fret about being turned down.
Dominatus arrived once more at Carusso Manor. If he so requested, Lucianus didn’t mind simply spending some time together, enjoying a few drinks, but it’d been a while since the noble last saw the face of his dearest beloved. The moment he saw Dominatus’s face, he was filled with sweet excitement—he wanted to be held in those burly arms once more.
Their second round of intercourse was much softer than the first. But Lucianus wasn’t totally happy with how gently he was being treated—it didn’t feel like Dominatus was lusting after him. Yet, Lucianus’s body was so excited that it was almost embarrassing. He melted under Dominatus’s gentle caresses.
Lucianus recalled that Dominatus had mentioned that he disliked hearing the moans of men, so he did his best to stifle his gasps. Lucianus did whatever he could to ensure that he wouldn’t lose himself to pleasure, so deathly afraid was he of Dominatus turning soft and flaccid. After their second time together, Dominatus slept in the bed with him before he left, much to Lucianus’s delight. It seemed the gladiator was satisfied with his experience this time around.
Lucianus continued to spend intimate nights with Dominatus, while suppressing his own pleasure.
The two men were intimate six times over the summer. As autumn approached, Dominatus was selected to fight in the colosseum. It’d been a while since his last bout, and he asked Lucianus to watch the match, to which he begrudgingly agreed. It didn’t matter how many times they slept together. Lucianus was unable to change his thorny attitude—he didn’t quite know how. He’d acted haughty for so long, and he couldn’t suddenly turn honest and needy. Lucianus was exasperated by his own foolishness, but surely Dominatus saw him as a person who bought men as sex toys. That was all. The insightful Lucianus knew that he’d only trouble his partner if he acted needy.
I’m such a standoffish person. No one will love me if I remain like this. Dominatus will soon grow bored of me. A time will come when he’ll no longer hold me, no matter how much money I offer him. But there was nothing Lucianus could do. He had used his money to buy love, after all, and this was his punishment. I reap what I sow. And so, Lucianus couldn’t even pity himself.
Chapter 5
Chapter 5
“DOMINATUS!” THE CROWD CHANTED.
A whirlwind of fiery excitement whipped up the colosseum. The audience filled the seats of the titanic, round venue, all chanting the name of a single man. They were lauding the valiant gladiator who stood victorious after a rigorous battle. Dominatus was at the center of this cheering, and he was slowly waving as he walked by, reveling in his victory with the crowd.
The white sands of the arena had splotches of red, dyed by the blood of the gladiators who had lost, and Dominatus stepped over these crimson puddles without a care, as was the right of a victor. His masculine, rugged features coupled with the faint smile that danced on his lips made him look arrogant. When he put on a serious demeanor, he looked so dignified that one could only attempt to swallow their nerves.
Indeed, the colosseum was where Dominatus looked the liveliest, and he once again clinched a landslide victory. Was there any gladiator in the world that could best him? While the program still continued, Lucianus had nothing more to see after Dominatus’s match—he was not fond of rowdy places. When he stood up to leave, Dominatus turned his way. For a moment, Lucianus thought that he’d met his eyes, but he didn’t think that he could be seen within the crowd from such a distance. He turned away and walked up the stairs.
He met up with Kaira, who had watched the match from the floor above, and as the pair walked down the halls, Lucianus was unfortunately spotted by a troublesome man.
“Why, if it isn’t Lucianus! How rare to see you here at the colosseum!” the familiar man called from behind. He slapped Lucianus on the shoulder as a show of friendliness.
His name was Mizaro, and he was Lucianus’s friend from their academy days. He was a good-natured man, but loved to gossip, and relished hearing about scandals. Every time the two met, Lucianus was forced to listen to silly rumors he cared nothing about.
“I suppose even a proud pessimist like you, interested only in studying, is intrigued by the greatest gladiator of his time,” Mizaro said. “He’s very popular these days.”
“I’m not really interested,” Lucianus replied. “I’m just here to waste some time.”
He didn’t want his presence to be described so simply with a crude word like “interest.” His tone was dreadfully icy, but Mizaro was completely unbothered by the voice of his grumpy friend. He gave a boisterous laugh.
“Wasting time, you say?” Mizaro said. “I suppose that’s par for the course for you. Meanwhile, people are obsessed with discussing who’s stronger: Dominatus or Grucos.”
“Such discussions are nothing new,” Lucianus replied.
“But the excitement we feel now is unmatched! The date for their battle has finally been set. I’m so excited that I can barely contain myself.”
Lucianus was shocked; he hadn’t heard about it. “Did His Imperial Majesty finally allow such a fight?”
Mizaro lowered his voice. “Apparently so. The emperor himself will be the host. His popularity has been waning recently, so I’m sure he’s trying to score some points with the people by having a grand match.” He shook his head. “Well, well. This will be a fight for the ages. Speaking of which, I heard that the handsome Dominatus has been rather close with Mrs. Almeia as of late. Oh, I’m sure he’s putting his lower ‘sword’ to good use in the bedroom. I’m so envious that he gets to be with that beautiful widow.”
Lucianus cast an icy gaze at his grinning academy friend as his rumors turned raunchy. The noble didn’t want to hear about the people that Dominatus was close with.
“I’m in a rush. I must be off,” Lucianus said.
He left with Kaira in tow, leaving Mizaro behind, though the chatterbox likely still had much more to say.
“Please don’t let it bother you,” Kaira said in a reserved tone.
“I won’t,” Lucianus replied immediately. “I don’t care who he sleeps with. It has nothing to do with me.”
And that’s the truth, he told himself. While he’d been intimate with Dominatus on several occasions, it was only because Lucianus was paying money. Their relationship was nothing more than a prostitute and his client. Lucianus was simply a good customer to Dominatus, and nothing more. It was ironically hilarious for Lucianus to be jealous of the women that also bought Dominatus.
“Shall I call for Sir Dominatus tonight?” Kaira asked, trying to be as considerate as he could.
“No need,” Lucianus replied. “He must be awfully busy being with the women who’re excited about his victory today.”
His sarcastic remarks were nothing short of ugly jealousy.
***
When Lucianus returned home, he found Juliana taking an afternoon nap on the sofa in the sunroom.
“Welcome back,” she said. “Were you out at the colosseum? You’ve been rather fanatical recently. Do you like Dominatus that much?”
He wasn’t sure if her words held any deeper meaning, but as he saw her yawning, he decided they didn’t and ignored her questions.
“Why weren’t you there?” Lucianus asked. “Simon put on a good fight today as well.”
Juliana glanced at Lucianus, who sat across from her. “I’m not into him anymore.”
He stared at her face in exasperation. “You claimed that you were in love with him.”
“I’m not to blame. Love is like a migratory bird that comes and goes as it pleases. It arrives without warning and leaves just as suddenly. All I can do is accept these feelings and watch them leave. I can cry and beg for them to stay, but these heartless birds won’t listen to a word I say.”
Her hair was usually neatly tied up, but today it was let down over her shoulders. She was a bit down, her feelings of love lost.
“Is love really so unrestrained? Does it not last forever?” Lucianus inquired.
“Nope,” Juliana declared. “Nothing lasts forever. Love is when your heart flutters. It’s passionate and joyful. It’s very similar to the excitement you feel in the colosseum. It doesn’t last for long.”
She pinched a baked snack between her fingers. Women are infatuated with love, but they can also be so scarily realistic, Lucianus thought. He found himself at a loss for words as the silence stretched between them.
“I think endless love exists,” Lucianus said. He didn’t want to think that his passionate, crazy affection for Dominatus would disappear one day. These feelings had taken root deep within Lucianus’s heart, becoming a part of who he was.
“No, love will always end,” Juliana said. “But it may change into romance.”
“How do they differ? Both require one to have feelings of endearment toward their partner, don’t they?”
“Love is about your own desire. You want to be satisfied. You want to be happy. You can only think about yourself. But romance is different. You want to satisfy your partner and make them happy. You end up thinking about your partner first.”
Lucianus furrowed his brow while mulling over his cousin’s words. “How does that differ from love that a child receives from their parents? Is that not the same as how a parent would dote over their biological child?”
“Love from a parent is unconditional. A mother who can breastfeed her child is happy simply to feed her kin. Her happiness comes from being able to shower another with love. She will ask for nothing in return. But the same can’t be said for love between partners. One will love another, hoping to be loved back. If that love isn’t reciprocated, you’ll be devastated, but even so, you can’t help but love that person. And so, you continue to pine for them.”
I sort of get what she’s saying, but sort of don’t.
“Love is difficult to understand,” Lucianus admitted.
“I don’t understand it well myself. The line between love and romance is blurred and filled with mysteries. But I do think that while one can live without love, if one were to lose true romance, they won’t be able to continue living.” She wore a melancholic expression.
“Did something happen?”
Did the fact that her love with Simon ended hurt her more than Lucianus had expected?
“Nothing at all,” Juliana replied. “I just got a bit emotional, I guess. I can’t help but wonder if I’ll ever get to experience this true romance. Oh, don’t worry. I don’t need to be consoled. I don’t mind feeling this way sometimes.”
She sighed and ate her snack, but Lucianus was more tempted to give a sigh of his own.
***
Lucianus’s mind was still preoccupied with thoughts of Dominatus as Kaira wiped him down. What kind of woman is he sleeping with right now? Lucianus wondered. A man like Dominatus would surely never suffer from the lack of women. Will he choose a noble tonight? Or perhaps the most beautiful woman he can find?
“Will you wear scented oil tonight?” Kaira asked.
Lucianus was ready for bed, and there was no need for him to wear any special scents, but he figured that a sweet aroma would be a nice change for him. He requested a lily-scented oil. Kaira took out a small, glass bottle from a cabinet and rubbed the scent onto Lucianus’s damp, pale skin.
Lucianus returned to his bedroom and found a glass of hot wine by his nightstand, though he didn’t remember asking for a drink. Did Kaira prepare this for me out of consideration? It was embarrassing for Lucianus to learn that even his servant worried that he wouldn’t get a good night’s sleep without the aid of alcohol. Did he seem so mentally fragile?
I’d like to learn more about Kaira’s thoughts. Kaira had been by Lucianus’s side ever since the noble was a baby. I wonder how he feels when he sees his master, who’s younger than him, falling in love with a gladiator. Kaira was silently watching over Lucianus forming a relationship with Dominatus; perhaps the servant saw this as a moment of weakness, allowing his young master to do as he pleased.
Even Lucianus was acutely aware of how shameless and foolish it was to purchase a man with the precious money that he inherited from his parents. Yet, again and again, he couldn’t stop himself.
“You look rather melancholic,” a man’s voice suddenly called. “Is something on your mind?”
Lucianus almost jolted in surprise. He looked up and found a tall man standing by the entrance to the yard.
“Dominatus?” Lucianus gasped. “Wh-why are you here? Did you sneak inside?”
“Don’t make me sound like a criminal,” Dominatus replied. “I didn’t want to trouble your servants, so I came here without telling them. That’s all.”
In other words, he had, in fact, snuck into the house without permission. Dominatus entered the room arrogantly, and headed for the bed where Lucianus sat. The gladiator violently grabbed the noble’s chin, brought their faces close, and took a deep inhale.
“You were waiting for me while enveloping yourself in my favorite sweet scent of lilies,” Dominatus said. “That’s a fine mindset to have.”
How conceited. Lucianus gave a look of exasperation and knocked Dominatus’s arm away.
“What is the misunderstanding here?” Lucianus asked. “I didn’t call for you tonight, did I?”
Dominatus brought his lips close to Lucianus’s ear and whispered, “You did.” His low, enchanting voice made Lucianus tremble. “When we locked eyes at the colosseum, your gaze invited me. You implied that you wanted me to sneak into your bedroom while everyone was asleep.”
The gladiator’s tone was filled with mockery. He was clearly joking, but Lucianus was vexed to learn that his mind had been read like an open book.
“How unpleasant you are,” Lucianus spat. “Leave at once. I don’t want to see your face.”
“Don’t lie to me. You wanted me to come,” Dominatus replied. “Why are you so stubborn?”
Dominatus jokingly pushed down Lucianus, who desperately tried to push Dominatus’s chest away, but the muscular body wouldn’t budge an inch under his slender arms.
“I’m not being stubborn,” Lucianus insisted. “I want to sleep. Why don’t you go to Mrs. Almeia and have fun with her?”
“Mrs. Almeia is a fine woman,” Dominatus replied. “She’s honest with her wishes and accepts the embrace of a man as she allows herself to be swept up by the whims of her desires. A far cry from a certain someone who holds tight to his composure, even in bed.”
Lucianus’s rage exploded as he heard the thorny remark. He slapped Dominatus’s face hard.
“You lowly, miserable gladiator!” Lucianus shouted. “If you don’t leave at once, I shall shout for help!”
“Good grief. How could you be so prideful? There’s no other man in the world who’s more of a handful than you,” Dominatus said. He frowned and started to rub his slapped cheek with his hand, paying no heed to Lucianus’s anger. “No matter. You didn’t buy me tonight. I’ve got no reason to heed your order.”
“What?”
Dominatus sat back up and took out a small, purple pill from a pouch by his waist. He popped it into his mouth, took a swig of wine, then swiftly kissed Lucianus on the lips. The noble found his lips pried open as wine poured into his mouth. He reflexively swallowed before placing a hand over his mouth.
“What did you just make me drink?” Lucianus demanded.
“An aphrodisiac,” Dominatus replied. “It works terrifyingly well. Ingesting one of these will have even a virgin rubbing her warm body against a man. Since you’re rather sensitive to being touched, I think it’ll work even better on you.”
“What…” Lucianus trailed off. He was in utter shock.
Dominatus gave a jovial chuckle. “Women tend to become insatiable when they buy a man. They want to get their money’s worth by having as much fun as they can. But you? You desperately stifle your cries and pretend that you’re not feeling good when I fuck you. It makes me feel impatient to no end. Why don’t you cast aside that troublesome pride for once and be honest with yourself? Yearn for me as you truly do. Life is short. At least when I’m taking care of you, you should stop looking so grim at least, and enjoy yourself to your heart’s content.”
These words made Lucianus feel inexplicably sad. He didn’t want a relationship that was bound purely by sex, and yet he was making Dominatus think that way. Lucianus wasn’t buying Dominatus solely for pleasure—he was doing it because he couldn’t suppress the fiery love that burned within his heart. Finding no other way to tie Dominatus to himself, he had chosen this route. They were men and of differing ranks. Unless Lucianus bought Dominatus under the guise of an eccentric hobby of a noble, there was no other way for the two of them to be in such close proximity.
Not only were Lucianus’s feelings not conveyed, but he was even forced to consume a mysterious pill. It was as though Dominatus was mocking him—if it was pleasure Lucianus wanted, Dominatus could provide as much as the noble desired.
“Is your goal to drown me in pleasure until I make a fool of myself? So you can mock me?” Lucianus asked.
“Are you sure that you won’t have any regrets?” Kaira had asked before Lucianus spent his first night with Dominatus. Lucianus had assumed that his servant’s concern was related to entrusting his body to a man of lower rank. Was he trying to warn me that I’d end up hurting myself if I purchased the affections of the man I love? If so, Kaira’s worries may ring true. Lucianus bit his lip, lost in his thoughts.
“Not at all,” Dominatus whispered. “I won’t mock you. Lucianus, just for one night, I ask that you yearn for me to your heart’s content.”
He spoke somberly, with none of his usual arrogant demeanor. His gaze looked a touch forlorn, and almost timid, even. Lucianus was concerned to see that Dominatus wasn’t his usual self, but when he opened his mouth to speak, his lips were sealed with a passionate kiss.
Dominatus’s large tongue entwined with Lucianus’s, and they kissed for so long that Lucianus could hardly breathe. He felt like he was being toyed with, but the flurry of kisses didn’t stop. All they were doing was locking lips, but Lucianus’s body and mind were already stirred up, a complete mess.
When Dominatus finally released Lucianus’s lips, he pointed his feverish gaze at the noble while scooping up the glossy, golden locks.
“What a prideful wealthy son who knows nothing of suffering,” Dominatus murmured.
As Lucianus stiffened, Dominatus gave a triumphant, mischievous smirk. He planted his lips on Lucianus’s forehead.
“Those were my thoughts when I first met you,” Dominatus confessed. “But over time, you became cuter in my eyes. I noticed that you put on a bold front when you’re with me, and desperately try to protect yourself. When I first held you in my arms, you acted as though you were used to sleeping with men, but I knew instantly that you were inexperienced. Yet, you still remained stubborn and acted like all was well. I don’t quite understand myself, but that dishonesty made me inexplicably angry. Yet, simultaneously, I was so filled with lust for you that I could no longer restrain myself, and I treated you horribly during your first time.”
Lucianus was so embarrassed that he wouldn’t have minded being smote right then and there. He hadn’t noticed that Dominatus had seen right through him back then.
“That night, I felt pathetic for acting out and I was disappointed in myself,” Dominatus continued. “I didn’t think that I’d get another chance, but then you called for me again. With each of our meetings, your body slowly got used to me. You’re like a tight bud that slowly bloomed into a beautiful flower. Your inexperienced body that knew nothing of love gradually got accustomed to my affection, and you now easily open up to me, sweetly entrusting your body to melt into my embrace. Seeing you transform in this way has brought me far sweeter and greater joy than any gladiator battle I’ve ever won. You had no idea, did you?”
Dominatus divulged his thoughts as though we were singing a lullaby. He gently stroked the cheek of a confused Lucianus.
“What’s wrong, Dominatus?” Lucianus asked. “You’re acting odd tonight.”
“I’m not,” Dominatus replied. “It’s simply become troublesome to act the part of a male prostitute.”
“Act? What do you mean?”
Lucianus furrowed his brow, but Dominatus only gave a strained smile and shook his head.
“If you don’t understand, that’s fine with me,” he replied. “Now then, I think the aphrodisiac will be taking effect soon. We mustn’t put it to waste; it was so expensive that it’d make your eyes pop out.”
Dominatus once again sealed Lucianus’s lips as though to imply that their chitchat was over.
***
The rosy tips on Lucianus’s chest were growing red like a ripe fruit, puffing up still as his senses were focused on the area. Dominatus’s hot tongue continued to flick and tease Lucianus’s nipples as though to encourage them to become even larger. His tongue moved slowly, savoring the taste of Lucianus’s body. His firm nipples had become red and ready to burst, but they were relentlessly pushed down by Dominatus’s tongue, then sucked on so that they’d stand taller.
“Dominatus…” Lucianus huffed. “Stop… Why do you keep licking me there?” He had no idea why the man continued to bully his nipples.
“’Why,’ you ask?” Dominatus replied with a smile. “Because when I tease you here, your body becomes easily excited. It should be especially pleasurable for you, thanks to that aphrodisiac. Your entire body should be growing warm and excited as we speak, yearning for the touch of another.”
He’s right. I find myself more vocal than usual, and I feel more sensitive.
“Your pale skin is truly beautiful,” Dominatus went on. “Even under the faint light of your lamp, you’re shimmering. And you’re as smooth as fine silk. It makes me crazy.”
Dominatus’s hand glided up Lucianus’s thighs, teasing him. These ticklish touches were all it took for Lucianus to gasp in pleasure, and he grit his teeth, stifling the sounds that wanted to escape him.
“Don’t hold back,” Dominatus said. “Let me hear your sweet voice.”
Lucianus shook his head in protest.
“You stubborn man,” he said, biting Lucianus’s neck.
This sharp sensation transformed into pure ecstasy as another moan almost escaped Lucianus’s pursed lips. Dominatus removed his own clothes as well, revealing his magnificent muscles that pulsated with each of his movements. His impressive chest muscles, toned abs, and burly waist epitomized his masculinity even as he merely raised his head. He was splendid like a work of art—it was as though a statue of a God of War, carefully crafted by a first-rate artist, had descended from the heavens in front of Lucianus.
“It looks like you’re about to rip through that waistcloth,” Dominatus said. He glanced down at Lucianus’s groin, where his excitement was clear and uncontainable.
Usually, Lucianus would never remove his waistcloth of his own accord, but he couldn’t hold himself back tonight. He removed his clothes before Dominatus’s eyes, his mind growing numb. Lucianus’s head was filled with the thought of being touched, and he realized that he was being shameless as he experienced the full effect of the aphrodisiac.
“I’m happy to see that you removed your clothes, but what now?” Dominatus asked. “How do you want to be treated? Tell me what you want. Do you want me to stroke you with my hands until you’re almost in pain? Or would you like me to carefully lick you with my tongue?” It was clear that he wasn’t willing to budge without an answer.
Lucianus let his gaze fall and spoke in a voice so faint that it could barely be heard. “I want you to…lick me with your tongue.”
“Very good,” Dominatus said.
He gave a satisfied nod and lowered his face to Lucianus’s crotch. The gladiator’s warm mouth completely enveloped his member, and quivering breaths escaped Lucianus’s lips. Dominatus’s passionate tongue licked Lucianus’s erect cock, carefully sucking from the base to the tip as though to entice sweet nectar to gush from the slit.
“Ah… Mm… Dominatus, I can’t…” Lucianus moaned. It felt so good that his mind was melting away into sheer bliss.
“Lucianus, don’t close your eyes,” Dominatus said. “Watch how I caress your cock until you come. If you avert your gaze, I’ll stop.”
It was practically a threat, and Lucianus had no choice but to stare down at his groin. Dominatus gave a smile of approval before he continued. It was the first time that Lucianus saw someone suck his cock. He usually closed his eyes and averted his gaze; how embarrassing it was to see Dominatus’s lips swallow Lucianus’s cock to the hilt. At the same time, Lucianus felt a door opening to a new salacious interest. This was a sort of stimulation that he’d never felt before, and he grew more aroused by the second. A toe-curling tingle was working its way up from Lucianus’s groin, growing in tandem with Dominatus’s mouth. The gladiator’s scarlet lips bobbed up and down Lucianus’s shaft, his expression unexpectedly serious. Every single detail heightened Lucianus’s pleasure.
Suddenly, Dominatus’s attention turned to just the tip. This gentle teasing wasn’t enough for Lucianus to climax—he needed more stimulation. He impatiently grabbed Dominatus’s head with both hands, but the gladiator maintained eye contact and watched him, in no hurry to grant Lucianus’s wishes.
“Dominatus, more…” Lucianus panted.
“More what? Tell me,” Dominatus urged. “I’ll do anything that you request.”
The noble cast aside any shred of shame he had left and drew Dominatus’s head close. “Take me in deeper. Swallow me whole from the tip to the base, and be more forceful.”
“Like this?”
Dominatus’s head bobbed up and down swiftly in response to the request.
“That’s good,” Lucianus said with furrowed brows. “I’m… I’m coming… Ah… Mm… It feels so good. I can’t…”
The pleasure was dizzying. Lucianus could no longer contain himself, and climaxed into Dominatus’s mouth. He watched as Dominatus’s Adam’s apple rose and fell, implying that he’d swallowed it all. Then, Dominatus stepped off the bed and took a small bottle of rose oil from a nearby cabinet drawer.
“You’ve got a fine voice. But that wasn’t enough. I want to hear more of you,” he said. He lathered the rose oil onto his palms while gazing down at a panting Lucianus. “I’ll use another aphrodisiac. It works better if you insert it instead of swallowing it whole.”
Dominatus took out another pill and crushed it between his oily fingers. The pill easily gave way, like a bit of soft clay. He pressed his aphrodisiac-coated fingers against Lucianus’s anus, causing the noble to jolt.
“D-Dominatus? What are you…” Lucianus started.
“I told you, didn’t I?” Dominatus replied. “It works better if it’s inserted inside of you. Relax your muscles. Don’t worry, I’ll only slip in a finger.”
Lucianus wanted to claim that that wasn’t the point, but while he was hesitating, he felt an index finger enter him.
“No…” the noble gasped.
“I’m just putting this aphrodisiac inside of you,” Dominatus replied. “Stay still.”
As Dominatus’s finger swirled inside of him, Lucianus immediately noticed a change in his body.
“No, take your finger out,” Lucianus said. “I-I feel weird. My body feels so hot.”
“Don’t worry, that’s just the aphrodisiac taking effect. It won’t have any lasting effects,” Dominatus assured.
The gladiator didn’t lend an ear to the noble’s protests as he took great enjoyment in fingering his partner. The heat that Lucianus felt gradually turned into fiery feelings of arousal, making him feel even more anxious. He felt like he was on fire.
“Lucianus, for once, are you willing to touch mine?” Dominatus asked.
He finally removed his fingers. With a mischievous twinkle in his eye, he grabbed Lucianus’s hand and guided it toward his erect manhood. Lucianus hesitantly allowed his fingers to wrap around the hard cock. It’s so hot. He was always on the receiving end, and not once had he touched Dominatus’s most sensitive parts of his own accord.
“Can you lick me with that adorable mouth of yours?” Dominatus whispered. He gently nibbled on Lucianus’s earlobe, sending a shiver of ecstasy down his back. “Do you not want to? Is the phallus of a lowly gladiator too filthy for your mouth?”
Lucianus immediately shook his head. Not once had that thought crossed his mind. The truth was that he had always wanted to suck on Dominatus’s cock, but never had the courage to make such a request. Dominatus sunk into bed, and Lucianus sat up in turn. He slowly lowered his face near Dominatus’s groin and hesitantly kissed the tip of the erect cock. Lucianus stuck out his tongue and started licking.
“That’s ticklish,” Dominatus chuckled. “You’re like a tiny kitten.”
Lucianus, annoyed by the teasing, decided to be bolder. In one swift movement, he swallowed Dominatus’s dick, completely filling his mouth. He did his best to move his head up and down when he felt Dominatus stroke his hair.
“Don’t get so angry,” he said kindly. “If you put in that much effort, you’ll get tired too quickly. Take it slowly and enjoy yourself.”
Lucianus obediently did as he was told and slowed down as he continued to suck on Dominatus’s phallus. The noble used his lips to stroke the shaft, and when his mouth grew tired, he used his tongue to provide gentle licks. As he got used to the act, he even reached for Dominatus’s testicles. Every now and then, the gladiator would let out a grunt or a deep moan, lighting a fire in Lucianus’s heart. The noble was elated to hear that his clumsy sucking was eliciting such sounds from his beloved. He was so completely engrossed in fellatio that he felt his own erection growing once more. He had climaxed only moments before, but his tip was already leaking with beads of sticky fluid.
“Point your ass to me,” Dominatus instructed, still lying on the bed. “That aphrodisiac must have you itching to have something inside of you.”
Lucianus moved as he was told. He felt embarrassed doing so, but as Dominatus had said, his ass was throbbing and hot, yearning for pleasure. In truth, Lucianus was troubled by how much his body was craving another dose of ecstasy. He hovered over his partner on the bed, his ass to Dominatus as instructed, feeling the shamelessness of his position. Just then, he felt Dominatus’s large hand grab his buttock. Lucianus’s cheeks were stretched wide, and he suddenly felt something warm on his entrance. He jolted in surprise, but Dominatus kept a firm grip, locking Lucianus into place. The gladiator’s tongue was mercilessly attacking Lucianus’s hole, trying to pry it open.
“Ah… No… Mm…” Lucianus gasped. He couldn’t contain himself.
“Don’t stop,” Dominatus replied. “I’m still not satisfied. It’s not quite fair for only you to feel good, don’t you agree? Tonight, you aren’t my customer.”
Despite Dominatus’s aggressive request, Lucianus felt his knees tremble with every lick on his hole. He wanted to use his hands to please his partner, at the very least, and pressed his forehead against Dominatus’s torso while wrapping his fingers around the cock in front of him.
“It looks redder than usual,” Dominatus mused. “It’s a bit puffy too. I wonder how it is on the inside.” He slipped his rugged fingers into Lucianus’s hole with a small squelch. “Amazing. You’re so soft that it feels like you’re melting, but you’re sucking on my fingers so hard that it’s almost painful.”
Dominatus continued to move his fingers inside of Lucianus’s red hole, and the noble could only moan and gasp. It felt so good that he was tempted to thrust his hips out.
“You already came once, but you’re hard again so soon,” Dominatus observed. “Both your front and your back have made quite the scene.”
Lucianus was so busy chasing after the intoxicating bliss that Dominatus’s teasing words didn’t reach his ears. Dominatus kept his fingers inside of Lucianus’s ass while using his other hand to reach for his balls. His large hands massaged them gently, rubbing the firm insides against each other. Lucianus couldn’t take it any longer, and gave into his desires as his free hand reached for his own shaft.
“You can’t do that,” Dominatus said. “I’d be troubled if you came all by yourself.” He reached out and grabbed Lucianus’s arm, keeping him from the bliss of orgasm. Unable to restrain himself anymore, Lucianus cast aside his shame and begged.
“Then please penetrate me already… Dominatus…”
“Oh, but I am,” Dominatus replied. “Your lewd little hole has already swallowed three of my thick fingers.”
Dominatus pushed in three fingers as deep as they would go, causing Lucianus to arch his back from pleasure.
“N-no, I don’t want fingers…” Lucianus gasped. “I…want you.”
“What exactly do you want from me?” Dominatus asked. “Tell me clearly. If you don’t, you’ll never receive what you desire.”
The more Lucianus was teased, the more his desire grew. He rubbed his cheek against Dominatus’s erect manhood.
“I want this,” Lucianus said, his voice trembling. “I want your hot, thick cock inside of me.”
“Where?” Dominatus asked. “Where do you want it?”
You mean-spirited man. But Dominatus’s voice sounded so sweet and gentle that Lucianus found it endearing despite his annoyance. I don’t care. I’ll do whatever Dominatus wishes. I’ll answer anything he asks of me. I don’t care how embarrassing, shameless, and lascivious it is. There was no way that Lucianus could go against the words of his beloved.
“I want it inside of me,” Lucianus said. “My hot, impatient, and shameless ass is yearning for you. I want you. I want you to penetrate me deeply with your fierce cock.”
Lucianus got off Dominatus, went on his hands and knees, and raised his butt high in the air.
He placed his hands behind him and placed his own fingers on the spot Dominatus had been teasing just moments before.
“Here. Right here,” Lucianus said. “Please thrust into me. My body aches for you, and I want you to rub my insides with your thick manhood. Please.” All the while, he used his index and middle finger to stretch his red, throbbing hole.
Dominatus gulped greedily. “Even a prostitute wouldn’t entice a client so lewdly,” he said.
“Can you blame me?” Lucianus retorted. “You made me ingest that aphrodisiac. Dominatus, hurry. Do something about this aching body of mine. Or else, I feel like I might lose my mind.”
Dominatus brought Lucianus’s begging hips closer and gave a deep thrust, reaching the depths of the noble in one motion. Lucianus’s entire body tingled with pure elation, and he gave inaudible gasps of joy.
“Is this it? Is this what you wanted?” Dominatus asked.
He expertly thrust his hips deep into Lucianus, who could only frantically nod and raise his hips. He felt his insides massaged by the thick cock. Every motion, each of Dominatus’s thrusts in and out brought Lucianus satisfaction. There was no single spot that brought him pleasure—the mere fact that Dominatus was inside of him was a wonderful feeling. He grew more excited by the thought.
In fact, Lucianus didn’t even care about the position. Whether it be from behind or the side, or even if Dominatus didn’t move at all, Lucianus only became more aroused. The two were now in a missionary position as Dominatus continued to thrust.
“You’re amazing, Lucianus,” he muttered between pants. “What is going on inside of you? Even if I don’t move an inch, you keep swallowing my cock, inviting me deeper within.”
Dominatus opened up Lucianus’s legs and curiously stared at the spot where the two were connected. Even the noble could tell that his hole was twitching and shivering, greedily gulping Dominatus’s whole cock.
“Are you doing this on purpose?” Dominatus asked.
“H-how could I have such a skill?” Lucianus replied. “My body’s moving on its own. It’s because of that aphrodisiac.”
When Dominatus stopped, Lucianus’s tight hole greedily squeezed around his cock, begging for more stimulation. Even Lucianus felt that his body had become rather naughty, but he was able to defiantly blame it all on the aphrodisiac. There was nothing he could do about it.
“Thrust harder. Please,” Lucianus begged. “My body’s still throbbing. It’s not enough. I want you to thrust so hard that shameless noises echo throughout the room. I want you to stir up my insides. Ruin me.”
Lucianus wrapped his legs around Dominatus and crossed the tops of his feet in a show of his assertiveness. He implied that he’d go along with even the most aggressive of thrusting and refused to release Dominatus. A charming, masculine smile stretched across Dominatus’s lips as he took in this enticing invitation.
“If you yearn for me so much, I won’t be able to hold back either,” Dominatus said. “You’d best prepare yourself.”
He immediately began to thrust more aggressively, his breath growing haggard. Lucianus couldn’t suppress his moans as Dominatus grunted, their skin slapping against each other. The gladiator’s powerful, trained hips didn’t rest for even a moment as he continued to bury himself deep inside of Lucianus.
“Fuck! What’s going on with your body?” Dominatus grunted. He sounded almost annoyed. “You’re like a pot of sweet honey. It feels so good that I feel like I’m going crazy. I want to stay in you, but if I relax for even a moment, I’ll release my seed inside.”
“Ah! Hah…” Lucianus gasped. “Dominatus, I’m so close to coming again…”
As Lucianus tried to grip his own leaking cock, Dominatus stopped him once more. The gladiator pinned the noble’s hands above his head.
“Come with just your ass,” Dominatus whispered cruelly. “I’ll hit that good spot inside of you.”
“I-I can’t,” Lucianus said. “I’ve never…”
“It’s not impossible. Look how sensitive and erect you are. You can do it. I’m sure of it.”
Dominatus stopped his aggressive thrusting and aimed only for Lucianus’s favorite spot. He began to rhythmically ram his cock into that one place, and it was the only place Lucianus felt the penetration, his hard dick throbbing with joy.
“How does it feel? Are you close?” Dominatus asked. Lucianus nodded with tears in his eyes. “So am I. Can I sow my seed deep inside of you?”
“Please,” Lucianus begged. “I want your hot cum inside of me. Please let me have it all. Don’t spill a single drop.” His mind had grown numb from pleasure, and he could hardly understand the words coming out of his own mouth.
“Lucianus, you’ve got a talent for torturing a man.”
Dominatus fell silent and grunted while ravaging Lucianus’s insides. Swept up by the rough sex, Lucianus closed his eyes. He’d reached his limit. From deep within his body, fluid hotter than lava traveled up his cock and gushed forth.
“Ah… Ah… I’m coming again… So hot… Mm… Ooh… That was amazing, I can’t…” Lucianus gasped. His words held no meaning as he arched his back. White fluid spurted from his erect cock, coating his chest and stomach.
The release was euphoric as Lucianus’s body quivered with delight. Dominatus gazed down at the scene and let out a groan as he exploded within the noble. Lucianus felt warm fluids of affection spray inside of his body.
Chapter 6
Chapter 6
LUCIANUS WAS LANGUIDLY LAYING ON THE BED WHEN Dominatus hugged him from behind.
“Are you tired?” he asked, kissing Lucianus’s temple. “I pushed you a bit too much.”
Lucianus whirled around to face him. “You were being mean tonight. You used aphrodisiacs and teased me to make me impatient. Why did you do all that?”
“Forgive me. But that aphrodisiac bit is all a lie. Those pills I showed you were nothing of the sort—simply small lumps of flour.” Dominatus’s eyes were twinkling as though he was holding back his laughter.
Lucianus was flabbergasted. “That can’t be… I-it’s impossible. My body grew hot, and my insides felt…” He trailed off, unable to vocalize how his body had throbbed with such lewd lust, yearning for another’s touch.
“I mixed a few spices into the flour. That’s simply all that warmed your body.”
Spices? Lucianus thought. Then of course I’d feel warm.
“Are you sure?” he asked. “Are you truly certain that that wasn’t an aphrodisiac? Why did I feel more aroused than usual? And I acted so wantonly…”
Dominatus squinted in amusement as he saw how confused Lucianus looked.
“That’s how humans are,” Dominatus said. “When given a pill while being told that it works for any disease, people really do become cured. If told that it’s poison, people will begin to fall ill.”
“But why?” Lucianus asked. “Why did you make me take a fake aphrodisiac? Was I always boring you during intercourse?”
Lucianus was less concerned that he’d been fooled—he wanted to know Dominatus’s intentions.
“Nothing like that,” Dominatus replied. “I just wanted you to be honest with yourself. I wanted you to yearn for me to your heart’s content at least once. This may be my last time with you, after all.”
An ominous shadow loomed within the eyes of Dominatus, and Lucianus immediately sat up, sensing that something was amiss.
“Last? What do you mean by that?” Lucianus asked.
“My bout with Grucos has been decided,” Dominatus replied. “It’ll be held in five days. I may die.”
Lucianus almost laughed at such silly nonsense, but Dominatus was as serious as ever. The gladiator was truly prepared for his death.
“Why do you think that?” Lucianus inquired. “You’re stronger than him. There’s no way that you’ll lose.”
“Under normal circumstances, yes,” Dominatus replied. “But Grucos isn’t your average fighter. Before a battle, he’ll hire people to injure his opponents, and even during fights, he’ll throw powder in your eyes to temporarily blind you. He’s a man who’ll use any underhanded tactic he can to win. Every gladiator who has fought against him has died. Even those who survived the battle itself would later die from the poison that he laces the tip of his blade with.”
Lucianus turned pale. Not once did he assume that Grucos’s undefeated rumors hid such a dark and terrifying secret.
“Why is he not punished for his cheating?” Lucianus asked.
“He’s very shrewd,” Dominatus replied. “He leaves no evidence behind. What’s more, the emperor himself is lending a hand to Grucos’s cheating. His Majesty will never allow his favorite to lose. I heard from Mrs. Almeia, who’s close with the emperor, that he’s been rather bothered by a prophecy told by the oracle, Unafotus.”
“Unafotus’s prophecy?”
“Right. The prophecy goes that the emperor would lose his power if Grucos were to lose. It’s a silly prediction, but the emperor believes in it. He’ll use anything he can to ensure that Grucos can secure victory.”
“Then you don’t need to fight. You’re no longer a slave, so you can quit any time you like. Why don’t you just announce your retirement?”
Lucianus had thought that this was the perfect idea, but Dominatus slowly shook his head.
“I’ll fight Grucos,” he said. “That’s precisely why I continued being a gladiator.”
“What? I don’t understand,” Lucianus replied.
“My family was killed by Grucos,” Dominatus explained. He gently stroked Lucianus’s hand as he continued. “When I was younger, I lived in a remote nation. It was a small place, but my father ruled the area, and he was loved by his residents. My mother was kinder than anyone I knew, my older sister shone brilliantly in her beauty, and my younger brother was an adorable kid. I grew up with a happy childhood, loved by my family, and I was studying hard to take after my splendid father in the future. I also trained with the blade in my free time.
“But this empire’s soldiers invaded our territory, and my home nation was destroyed. Many citizens were taken as slaves. The one who had commanded the army back then was Grucos, a high-ranked soldier. He raped my mother and older sister before cruelly cutting them into pieces in cold blood. My father fought back until the very end, but he was beheaded, and my younger brother was thrown off the top of a castle to his death.”
Dominatus spoke indifferently, but pure wrath flickered in the depths of his gaze. Lucianus hadn’t believed the rumors that Dominatus was formerly a prince—a person with a decent education would be valuable as a slave. Generally, a person like that would become a personal tutor or a politician’s secretary. They would receive work in accordance with their knowledge and would never wind up as a gladiator. Yet, Dominatus had just admitted that those rumors were true.
Grucos had been given the death sentence for committing acts of cruelty in occupied territories. His crime was acting solely for his own gain and benefit. It was unforgivable for a soldier to rape women of a royal family, and it was logical to assume that he killed the others to hide his evil deeds.
“I was allowed to flee thanks to my father’s close advisor,” Dominatus continued. “I acted as a commoner for a while, but I was caught by a slave merchant and dragged into this country. After I was shoved into a gladiator school, I let my anger take over and swung my blade around wildly during fights. Ironically, that allowed me to succeed. When I was freed, I thought about retiring and leaving this nation. I’d always wanted to return to my home country.”
“But your country has been destroyed, no?” Lucianus asked. He was genuinely curious.
Dominatus gave a sad smile. “That’s right. My nation is gone. But my surviving citizens live here under this tyrannical regime. I heard rumors that they continue to suffer as they live humble and modest lives while growing crops. And so, I wanted to spend the rest of my life as a farmer. But fate is a funny and cruel mistress. Grucos appeared in front of me as a fellow gladiator. He didn’t seem to remember my face, but I’ll never forget him. I’ve continued to live, swearing that I’d never forgive him, and I’ve been eagerly awaiting the day that I finally get to fight that man. I promise to end him with my hands.”
Lucianus had never seen Dominatus exhibit such animosity and willingness to fight. Even during battles, when the gladiator fought like a demon, a faint, sarcastic smile danced on his lips. But indescribable fury was now emanating from every fiber of his body. Lucianus could deeply empathize with Dominatus’s lust for revenge, but he didn’t want to watch Dominatus plunge to his death. Propelled by his strong emotions, Lucianus stepped off from the bed and kneeled on the floor.
“Dominatus, please don’t fight,” he begged.
“Stop. Don’t do that,” Dominatus said. “If I see you kneeling, even my iron shall begin to waver.”
He couldn’t hide his astonishment and quickly tried to make Lucianus stand, but the noble shook himself free.
“Then waver,” Lucianus said. “I don’t want you to die. I’ll do anything. I’ll grovel and kiss your feet if you desire.”
But Dominatus shook his head at Lucianus’s plea. “Lucianus, I have no intention of losing. No matter what method Grucos uses and no matter what the emperor may do to me, I promise to dye the white sands of the arena red with his blood. But there’s a chance that I shall die after my victory. Hence, just for one night, I wanted to hold my beloved in my arms, not because of money, but as equals.”
“Beloved? What do you mean?”
Dominatus flashed an awkward yet gentle smile at Lucianus’s confusion. “I mean you,” the gladiator said. “Please don’t laugh at me for being a hopeless gladiator. I’m hopelessly, desperately in love with you. Are you not the same? I’ve known your feelings for quite a while now.”
When he grinned, Lucianus didn’t know whether to feel happy or frustrated. His emotions were a mess, and his chest grew tight as tears welled up in his eyes. Finally, he knew that he wasn’t a simple client to Dominatus—in fact, his own true feelings had been seen through. Even though I’m never honest with myselfand lack the adorable charm that comes so easily to others. Even though I act arrogantly to the point where I must be infuriating. Despite it all, Dominatus had read Lucianus’s true thoughts loud and clear.
“Dominatus, I… I…” Lucianus had a mountain of things he wanted to say, but the words wouldn’t come out.
Dominatus crouched forward and kissed Lucianus’s damp, tear-streaked cheek. “Just be honest with yourself already. Tell me that you love me,” he murmured. “Whisper your words of love into my ear. It’s my final wish.”
His final wish? Lucianus refused to believe those words and pushed his beloved away as he stood up.
“I refuse,” Lucianus declared. “If you want to hear me declare my love for you, win against Grucos and return to my side. If you win and insolently sneak into my room as you’ve done tonight, I shall mutter any words that you desire, as many times as you wish.” He spoke firmly, with tears in his eyes.
Dominatus could only laugh, his shoulders shaking with every chuckle. “Even till the very end, your words suit you very well. How very amusing. You’ve got me cornered.”
He stopped laughing and pulled Lucianus into an embrace so tight that it was painful. Fresh tears spilled out of Lucianus’s eyes.
“I won’t go to the colosseum. I absolutely refuse,” Lucianus said.
“Yeah, you don’t have to come,” Dominatus agreed. “Just envelop yourself in my favorite scent of lilies and wait for me in this room. I promise to return. I must hear your words of affection with my own ears.”
He released Lucianus from his arms and turned around. Not once did he look back as he left the room from the entryway that he’d crept in through.
***
Five days later, Lucianus remained holed up in his room, claiming that he didn’t feel well. He didn’t want to meet anyone. Kaira, who knew not of his master’s thoughts, returned home after running errands. He stated that everyone was at the colosseum, and even the city had turned silent. All the while, he hoped for Dominatus’s safety. When Lucianus had declared that he wouldn’t visit the colosseum, Kaira had drawn conclusions of his own.
“Kaira, I wish to hear the outcome of this match directly from Dominatus,” Lucianus said. “No matter what you hear from others, you must never tell me.”
“Your wish is my command,” Kaira replied.
As the sun had started to set, Lucianus could no longer sit still and restlessly paced around his room. Dominatus’s battle should have wrapped up by now, and Lucianus glanced at the entryway several times in anticipation of his beloved, but only time passed to no avail. Night approached, and there were still no signs of Dominatus’s appearance. Time continued to pass mercilessly, and as it grew late into the night, Lucianus sank into his bed with tears streaming from his eyes.
He’s dead, he thought. I can never meet him again. If I knew this would happen, I wouldn’t have been stubborn that night. I should’ve vocalized my love for him a million times. Tears streamed down Lucianus’s face as he wept and wept. When he was all out of tears, he heard the door behind him open. He was tempted to whirl around, but he was so terrified that he couldn’t bring himself to do so.
What if it was just the wind blowing? Lucianus would despair and drop dead on the spot. But his worries were soon dispelled as he heard footsteps quietly approach him. The shadow of a man loomed under the light of the lamp, and Lucianus sat up, leaped off the bed, and whirled around.
He wanted to hug his beloved man in a tight embrace.
He vowed to vocalize his love tonight.
And he would finally bow his head in the face of true love.
A Vow for Eternity
Chapter 1
Chapter 1
“THIS IS A GOOD PLACE,” DOMINATUS SAID.
The low voice reached Lucianus’s ears as he relaxed into the feeling of comfortable sluggishness, his cheek was pressed against the bare chest of a burly body. He looked up and gently stroked the stubble growing on his beloved’s chin.
“There’s nothing here,” Lucianus said. “Only vineyards.”
“That’s the best part,” Dominatus replied. “I much prefer the quiet countryside surrounded by nature than the bustling fuss of the city. I feel calmer. More at ease.”
Dominatus fiddled with the ends of his beloved’s hair, twisting it as he pleased. He had meant to be gentle, but he commanded more power than he thought and could occasionally pull Lucianus’s hair, causing a flash of pain.
“Stop that,” Lucianus snapped. He was unable to endure the tugging for any longer and swatted Dominatus’s hand away.
Dominatus frowned. “You treat me like you’re trying to swat a fly away. You immediately turn cold the moment everything is over. Women tend to act sweet and needy after intimacy.”
Annoyed by the retort, Lucianus pinched a strand of Dominatus’s chest hair and gave a tug.
“That hurt,” Dominatus said.
“That’s how painful it is for me when you pull my hair,” Lucianus replied.
“I guarantee that it hurts more when you pluck out a single chest hair.”
Lucianus slipped out of bed and cast a glance up at Dominatus as he rubbed his chest in exaggeration. After dressing himself in a long robe that was tied in the front, Lucianus poured himself a glass of water from a nearby pitcher. He narrowed his eyes against the afternoon sun that trickled in from the window, quenched his thirst, and gazed out at the view.
The couple were at a villa owned by House Carusso. The household owned a massive plot of agricultural land, but the plot of vineyards in Filena were especially vast, and many slaves were hard at work.
This villa stood on a hill, allowing a splendid view of the vineyards that stretched for miles. Lucianus had claimed that there was nothing in this countryside region, but he had often visited this place when he was a child and was rather fond of this area. The season of harvest had long passed, and the green leaves of the vineyard had turned red and yellow. A carpet of gold and crimson decorated the hills, twisting and turning with the terrain. The dreamy scenery was vibrant and stunning.
“Give me some water too,” Dominatus said, still lying in bed.
Just who do you think you are? Lucianus internally grumbled as he brought his beloved a full glass.
“I want it from your lips,” Dominatus requested.
Lucianus couldn’t hide his exasperation. “If you wish for something so crass, ask any woman who’s more skilled at acting so spoiled.”
“I’m specifically requesting for you. I want you to quench my parched throat with your beautiful lips.”
Dominatus was practically pleading, but the gaze he pointed at Lucianus was that of a king, controlling everything in the palm of his hand. Frustratingly, the noble was unable to refuse his beloved’s requests. He tipped some water into his mouth, approached his partner, and placed his lips over Dominatus’s. Cold water slipped from Lucianus into Dominatus, the latter’s Adam’s apple bobbing with every gulp.
“Delicious,” Dominatus said with satisfaction. “The water tastes so irresistibly sweet.”
Hearing such praise made Lucianus’s chest tremble with joy, hammering home how painfully infatuated he was.
“Could I have another sip?” Dominatus asked.
Lucianus did as he was told when he felt Dominatus’s warm hand slip between the opening of his robe. The gladiator’s large hand gently stroked Lucianus’s waist and back; the noble started to feel aroused once more despite their passionate night that they’d just spent together. Are his hands magical somehow?
Even after Dominatus had his fill of water, he refused to release Lucianus’s lips. They continued to kiss as though the gladiator was savoring the sweet taste of his beloved, and Lucianus felt the strength leave his body. Before he knew it, he was straddled on top of Dominatus’s waist.
“We won’t go for another round,” Lucianus warned.
“I know. I won’t. I’m just kissing you,” Dominatus replied.
“You said that the last time too, and yet, it escalated. We already did it twice this morning. You still want more?” Though sheepish to admit that he had also been easily swept up by his partner, Lucianus managed to furrow his brow and scold Dominatus.
“Can you blame me?” He grinned in reply, then gently bit the noble’s earlobe. “You’re simply so endearing. When I touch you, my desires flow out of me endlessly.”
Lucianus knew that Dominatus was joking, but he couldn’t stop his ears from turning red at these candid sweet nothings. It’d been four days since the couple had arrived in Filena, and the two had done nothing but make love, be it night or day. Every second they had, they spent together in a loving embrace. This villa had a hot spring, and he’d brought Dominatus here in hopes of soothing his wounds, but he was spending more time in bed than in the bath. This did his injuries no favors.
“No, I won’t sleep with you,” Lucianus said. “Let’s take a bath. The longer you bathe here, the faster your wounds will heal.”
Dominatus came up victorious in his battle against Grucos, but his body was in tatters. The wounds themselves weren’t deep, but Grucos had cheated once again and tipped his blade with poison. Dominatus had predicted as much and preemptively drank an herbal tea that would act as an antidote. Thanks to his preparation, he’d managed to cling to his life, but he’d fainted the moment he arrived in his waiting room just off the arena floor. He regained consciousness in the middle of the night and dragged his wounded body to Carusso Manor to fulfill his promise to Lucianus. Lucianus, who had no means of knowing all this, felt his heart grow warm at the return of his beloved. He tried to kneel and declare his love, but Dominatus embraced him and passed out before anything else could be done.
For three days and nights, Dominatus suffered from a high fever due to the poison and his wounds. Lucianus was glued to his beloved’s side and had even hired a renowned physician to diagnose Dominatus. When the physician gave a vague diagnosis, claiming that the patient’s recovery was up to his own stamina and willpower, Lucianus angrily demanded the doctor to forfeit his famed title.
On the fourth day, Dominatus’s fever finally went down, and he started to recover at an astonishing rate. Lucianus breathed a sigh of relief. He was impressed by Dominatus’s ravenous appetite, but his beloved’s lower half was equally hungry for Lucianus’s touch. When the noble was nursing his beloved and wiping down Dominatus in bed, he was dragged into sex numerous times.
Lucianus had resisted at first out of worry for the gladiator’s worn body, but Dominatus was like a starving beast. In the face of such an aggressive show of affection, Lucianus easily relented, his body melting away into pleasure—before he knew it, his lower half was naked, and Dominatus was deep inside him.
“I returned to you alive, didn’t I?” Dominatus whispered into the noble’s ear. The gladiator’s body was still feverish as he forcibly held Lucianus in his arms.
Lucianus couldn’t suppress his emotions. Their act of coitus was short and intense, but an indescribable sense of pleasure washed over his body as he released his warm seed.
Dominatus had recovered considerably since, and he had no issues going about his daily life, but the aftereffects of the poison and his deep wounds still lingered. And so, Lucianus suggested that they head for his villa in Filena, where they had access to a natural hot spring. Dominatus had been wanting to go as he was bored to death in the manor, and the couple left with a few servants in tow.
“I wouldn’t mind another round in the bath,” Dominatus said.
“No one said anything of the sort,” Lucianus replied. “Good grief, your lower sword is more energetic than I imagined.”
“It’s because you’re by my side. You’re a sinful man.”
“Don’t blame it on me.”
Despite Lucianus’s weary tone, he was secretly delighted to hear that Dominatus yearned for him so deeply. Their days together felt like a dream, and Lucianus was so happy that he truly wished that these days would last forever. However, one problem plagued his mind. Lucianus had yet to convey his love to Dominatus. In bed, Lucianus was so engrossed in the moment that he’d often spout embarrassing pleas, but not once had he explicitly spoken of his love.
Needless to say, Dominatus was aware of Lucianus’s feelings—perhaps only Lucianus was bothered by this fact. Still, he’d promised to vocalize his love a million times if Dominatus won against Grucos; Lucianus felt guilty for being unable to uphold his end of the bargain. The noble had made a few attempts during sex, but he became too embarrassed to follow through.
The bedroom was connected to the bath by a personal corridor, so Dominatus walked to his destination naked. Lucianus followed, still wearing his long robe. He’d told Kaira to keep others away, so there was nothing to worry about, but Lucianus’s sensibilities didn’t allow for him to walk the corridor unclothed.
“You’re as rigid as ever,” Dominatus remarked, stepping into the bath beside Lucianus.
Lucianus asked for clarification, but Dominatus said nothing more and continued to smile faintly. A brief silence settled between them.
“Do you not like rigid men?” Lucianus asked.
All of a sudden, he grew anxious. Has he grown tired of me and my nagging? Perhaps Dominatus tolerated it in small doses, but there was a good chance that his dissatisfaction grew the longer they spent their time together.
“I neither like nor dislike them,” Dominatus replied indifferently.
Lucianus took his reply as assent—he didn’t like such men. He frantically tried to retort before the atmosphere turned awkward, but he couldn’t find the right words. On the contrary, he was overcome with deep sadness and tears started to form in the corners of his eyes. He hastily splashed water on his face, not wanting to be seen as an effeminate man who cried so easily. He could only pretend he was washing himself.
“Lucianus, are you crying?” Dominatus asked, his face riddled with surprise.
“Of course not,” Lucianus quickly replied. “Why would I cry because you treat me so coldly? Cease your foolish babbling.”
“You’re not only stiff and prideful, but you’re dishonest as well. You’re shockingly uncute.”
New tears started to form in Lucianus’s eyes as he felt like he was being rejected. He turned away from Dominatus.
“Yet, when I see you act that way, you’re so endearing that I can’t help but bully you a little,” Dominatus continued. “Forgive me.”
Lucianus was hugged from behind and a sense of relief rushed over him, but he was also annoyed.
“You’ve got a mean streak,” he muttered.
Dominatus forced Lucianus to face him. “Your eyes are red. I knew it, you were crying,” he said. He saw right through Lucianus’s tough front. “I’m sorry for bullying you, but why are you anxious over such a minor detail? Are you not able to trust my feelings for you?”
“N-nothing like that.”
Despite being gravely injured and on the verge of death, Dominatus had returned to Lucianus’s side. He surely wouldn’t have been able to accomplish such a feat if he wasn’t deeply in love with Lucianus. Lucianus knew that he was loved, and he had no doubts, but his heart flickered like a candle’s flame in the wind. Every casual remark, utterance, and action that Dominatus made caused Lucianus’s heart to waver.
“You’re a dense man if you can’t understand Lucianus’s sensitive heart,” a woman’s voice echoed through the room.
Lucianus turned toward the voice and widened his eyes in surprise. “Juliana?”
His cousin stood at the entryway of the dressing room. Absolutely taken aback by her presence, he hastily moved away from Dominatus.
“You might be the best gladiator around, but you’re nothing much when it comes to romance,” she said.
“Who are you?” Dominatus asked. He was completely unfazed by the woman who looked down at him with her arms crossed.
“I’m Juliana, Lucianus’s older cousin. My husband is the senator Maltheus Minoras Kaidu. My father is Valius Carusso Naulo.”
“Oho? You’re General Naulo’s daughter, I see,” Dominatus replied.
“Former general. He’s now a governor in D’Aleppo.”
“Juliana!” Lucianus cried. “It’s rude to suddenly enter the bath while a guest is around. What happened to Kaira?”
“I’m right here, my lord,” Kaira said. He appeared behind Juliana, and had likely been gauging the scene from the dressing room. “I’m terribly sorry. I tried my best to stop her, but Lady Juliana refused to listen. I shall take her away immediately. Right this way please, my lady.”
“What’s the problem, Lucianus?” Juliana replied. She pushed Kaira’s hand away. “I’ve known for a while that you were with Dominatus anyway.”
“That’s not the issue. Sir Dominatus is my lord’s precious guest. I ask that you please refrain from any shameful acts.”
“Shameful? How dare you.”
“Barging in while a guest is bathing is surely a breach of etiquette.”
Juliana glared at Kaira, but she’d also known the man ever since she was a young child. She didn’t try to pick much of a fight with him.
“Then I’ll strip and bathe with them,” she said. “You don’t have a problem with that, do you?”
“Kaira, you may step back,” Lucianus finally said. “I’m sure she’ll leave of her own accord once she’s satisfied.”
It was wise not to provoke her any further—Juliana was the type to actually remove her clothes right then and there to bathe with the two men.
“Why are you here?” Lucianus asked.
Juliana sat on the marble staircase. “I came to inform you of something. I went to your manor, where I learned that you went off to your villa in Filena with Dominatus. I was shocked. I pieced together why you started to visit the colosseum you despised so much. You didn’t have to hide it from me. Why act so distant like I’m a stranger?”
Juliana may not have judged love between two men, but for Lucianus, it came as a shock of a lifetime. The two cousins may have divulged their innermost thoughts to each other regularly, but Lucianus still found it difficult to speak to her about his love.
“I’m sorry to shock you,” Lucianus apologized. “I was planning on telling you one day.”
Juliana glanced at Dominatus. “You’re covered in wounds. Your battle against Grucos was magnificent, but you weren’t your usual self. You’d normally act like you’ve got the disadvantage to get the crowd going, but you were serious from the beginning to the end of that match. You weren’t fighting to win—you were fighting to kill Grucos, no matter what it took.”
“Is that a problem?” Dominatus asked. A faint smile stretched across his lips.
“Of course it is. You must be mad to kill the emperor’s favorite. The moment your sword pierced Grucos’s chest as the final blow, the emperor stood up and left, all pale faced.”
That day, Dominatus fought not as a gladiator, but as a man who had his family stolen away. He was there to kill Grucos. But Dominatus had no intention of telling Juliana that truth.
“The crowd also chanted for his death,” he replied curtly.
“How brazen you are,” Juliana replied. “It’s only natural for you to earn the emperor’s ire.”
“I’m not afraid of him.”
“You don’t understand anything, do you?!” Juliana shouted. Her eyes grew wide and sharp. “You’re a wanted man! How could you bathe in leisure? The emperor dispatched troops to the gladiator school in hopes of capturing you!”
Even Dominatus didn’t expect this as he frowned. “What did you just say?”
“I don’t care what happens to you, but I wouldn’t want Lucianus to get dragged into this mess! I had my carriage go as fast as it could to let you two know!”
“I don’t understand, Juliana,” Lucianus said. “Why is the emperor trying to capture Dominatus? Killing a man in a gladiator battle isn’t a crime.”
“Publicly, Dominatus is wanted for treason.”
“Treason? Surely this is some sort of mistake.”
“Why don’t you both get dressed? We should continue this discussion in your room.”
***
Once Lucianus and Dominatus reached the table where Juliana waited, she immediately got down to business.
“The emperor has claimed that Dominatus is agitating numerous gladiators to create his own army of fighters and incite a rebellion to take over the nation,” she said.
“What nonsense. It’s all lies,” Dominatus replied.
“The showmen and the gladiators denied such a thing, but the soldiers aren’t listening. The entire gladiator school was flipped upside down and thoroughly searched.”
“Who did you hear all this from?” Lucianus asked.
“Simon,” Juliana replied.
“Simon? I thought you ended your crush on him.”
“I did, but it started up again. Love works in mysterious ways, doesn’t it?”
She didn’t seem at all apologetic as she glanced at Dominatus and Lucianus. Her gaze seemed to imply that this form of mysterious love had wormed its way between the two men as well.
“Simon said that you vanished after your battle with Grucos, Dominatus, and no one knows where you went,” Juliana continued. “I found the story amusing and decided to jokingly let Lucianus know, but I never imagined that you two had been together this entire time. I instructed your servants not to breathe a word about Dominatus staying at House Carusso or heading to the villa in Filena, but who knows where information might slip through. There’s a very good chance that the emperor would send his troops over to this villa too.”
Dominatus sat silently frowning.
“Let’s run,” Lucianus said. “We must leave this place before the soldiers arrive. If you get caught, you’ll be killed.”
“Even if I’m executed, Grucos won’t be brought back to life,” Dominatus replied.
“But what if Unafotus prophesized that the emperor’s power would be restored if you’re killed?”
“Why is that oracle being brought up now?” Juliana wondered.
Lucianus told her that Azerius believed in Unafotus’s prophecy: the emperor would lose power if Grucos was defeated.
“I see now…” Juliana nodded. “That was why the emperor favored Grucos to an almost absurd degree. I’m surprised to learn that that oracle is behind it all. But your guess might be right, Lucianus. If Dominatus is found guilty of treason, he’ll be given the death penalty.”
“He might not even have to wait that long,” Lucianus said. “The emperor might plan an assassination in prison.”
As the words escaped his lips, he felt terror growing within him. The emperor of the massive Balmain Empire wanted Dominatus dead. Was there truly a safe place for the gladiator to flee to?
“What can we do?” Lucianus mumbled. He placed a hand over his forehead, mulling over his options.
“There’s nothing to worry about, Lucianus,” Dominatus said simply. “I won’t return to Dyna, and I’ll disappear. I don’t plan on causing you any trouble.”
“What are you saying?” Lucianus cried. He couldn’t hide his shock. “I won’t abandon you!”
“But if you go against the emperor, you’ll be in danger too. As the lord of the house, you have many things that you must protect. I suggest that you forget about me.” Dominatus stood, and Lucianus followed suit. “I shall leave here immediately. Thank you for taking care of me for so long, Lucianus. I won’t forget you. I pray from the bottom of my heart that the gods will forever cast their blessings on you.”
He pulled Lucianus in for a tight embrace.
“I won’t allow it!” Lucianus shouted. “I won’t permit you to leave my side! I won’t forgive it, Dominatus!”
“This is for your own good,” Dominatus said.
The gladiator’s voice was filled with grief. Lucianus was well-aware that the gladiator had resolved to protect his beloved, but the noble wasn’t at all thrilled by this outcome. If this was Dominatus’s way of expressing his love, Lucianus couldn’t accept it. He’d made a vow that fateful night. When he was anxious and worried that he might lose Dominatus forever, the noble had sworn to offer anything and everything he had should the gladiator return alive.
“I don’t fear death,” Lucianus opined. “I’m more afraid of losing you.”
“Don’t be foolish,” Dominatus replied. “If anything happened to you because of me, I’d never be able to forgive myself. I want you to live on happily. It may not have been for long, but you’ve thought of a miserable gladiator like me so deeply. The time I spent with you will be my treasure, and I’ll live by myself.”
Dominatus used both hands to gently stroke Lucianus’s head.
“No!” Lucianus cried, looking up at his partner. “I won’t be separated from you. I don’t want to. Dominatus, I’m begging you to please stay. If you choose to flee, take me with you.”
“You can’t be so reckless. I have nowhere to go. To survive, I must journey to the lands beyond, past the tribes and barbarians, into the most remote location possible where the emperor can’t reach me. There’s no way that I can bring you to such a place. I’m begging you, please listen to my request.”
Dominatus kissed Lucianus’s damp cheek, and Lucianus felt like his heart was being torn apart.
“D’Aleppo,” Juliana muttered. She spoke softly like a priestess giving a prophecy. “Lucianus, Dominatus, you two should head for D’Aleppo.”
“The large nation in the north?” Lucianus asked.
“Yeah. It’s currently a province under the Balmain Empire, and it’s where my father governs. Rely on him and head for D’Aleppo. I’m certain that my father will protect you both.”
Valius doted on Lucianus like a son. If the noble went to his uncle for help, he wouldn’t be pushed away. However, their presence would put the governor at risk.
“I can’t do that, Juliana,” Lucianus said. “If word spreads that he’s gone against the emperor, I’m certain that he will be punished. I cannot cause trouble for your family.”
“You silly child,” Julianus sighed. She smiled at her cousin. “Just as you want to protect Dominatus, my father and I also want to protect you. There’s no need for you to worry. We’ve got numerous troops and a garrison in D’Aleppo to fight against barbarians and any rebels in the north. The soldiers see my father as the true general of the Balmain army, and they’re fiercely loyal to him. Father has the power to protect you both, and I’m certain that he’s willing to offer shelter. Go to D’Aleppo.”
Her firm words almost forced Lucianus to obey. He couldn’t think of any other path for their survival as he turned to his beloved. “Will you come with me to D’Aleppo?” he asked.
“It’s quite far from here,” Dominatus replied. “It’ll take nearly ten days on horse. I’ve no doubt that it will be a perilous trip for you.”
“I don’t mind. I’ll endure any distance if I can be with you. Please, come with me to D’Aleppo.” Lucianus gulped and nervously waited for an answer with bated breath.
Dominatus smiled. “If you’re willing to go this far for me, I suppose I have no other choice. I understand. Let’s head there together.”
Lucianus breathed a sigh of relief as the strength left his body.
Juliana turned to Kaira, who was listening to this entire exchange with worry. “Let’s head to Aunt Anela’s place for now,” she said.
“Lady Anela’s manor?” Kaira asked.
“Mhm. We should head to a safe place first as we prepare for the boys’ departure. Soldiers could barge into this place at any moment, after all. And I’m certain that Aunt Anela will help us out.”
“Who’s that?” Dominatus asked.
Lucianus explained that Anela was his paternal aunt. She’d lost her husband and had her son inherit the family estate before she moved to Croude, a land northeast of here. She’d settled in three years ago. House Carusso was a renowned noble family, but House Maragano, a family that Anela married into, enjoyed an even greater status. In fact, Empress Oltavia hailed from House Maragano.
There wasn’t a second to lose. Dominatus and Lucianus hastily made preparations and each mounted their own horse when they heard Kaira cry out.
“Over there!” the servant shouted.
He pointed to a spot at the bottom of the hill. Around ten soldiers on horseback were galloping up the only road that led to the villa. Captains of the Balmain army wore helmets adorned with a red ornament, but the captain of the Imperial Guards, under direct command of the emperor, had a blue décor on his galea. Even from afar, one could see the blue on the soldier that was at the helm—these soldiers were sent to capture Dominatus.
“Hurry, you two!” Juliana shouted.
“But what about you and Kaira?” Lucianus asked.
“I’ll stay here and buy some time. Don’t worry, I’ll follow later.”
“But—”
“I’ll be fine. I’m the wife of a senator, and the daughter of Valius Carusso Naulo. There isn’t a soldier in the world that could lay his hands on me.”
“Please hurry,” Kaira said. He turned to his hesitant master. “You swore to protect Sir Dominatus, didn’t you?”
“Kaira…” Lucianus started. But upon seeing his servant’s encouraging gaze, the noble nodded.
“Sir Dominatus, I leave Lord Lucianus in your hands,” Kaira said.
“Understood,” Dominatus replied. “Let’s go, Lucianus.”
Dominatus spurred his horse forward, and Lucianus could only shake away his feelings of reluctance. Steeling his resolve, he kicked the sides of his horse with his heels.
Chapter 2
Chapter 2
THE TWO MEN AVOIDED THE MAIN ROADS, AND THEY let their horses rest midway. The journey took more time than they expected, but they managed to reach Croude while the sun was still high in the sky. It was a small city, but it was blessed with a large lake, making it a picturesque spot for citizens. Many nobles and wealthy people had a villa by the lake, and Anela’s beautiful manor was also erected near the water.
It’d been six months since Lucianus last set foot in Croude; he’d gone to visit Anela, who had been sick and bedridden. She was close friends with Lucianus’s late mother, and every time they met, her eyes would grow damp with tears.
“You take after your mother, Maurya,” she’d say.
Lucianus viewed his kind aunt as his other mother. As always, Anela greeted her nephew warmly despite his sudden appearance. She didn’t seem surprised by Dominatus’s presence and instead smiled at the two men.
“How rare it is for you to bring a friend with you, Lucianus,” she said.
She showed the two of them to the sunroom which provided a fabulous view of the lake, and had one of her servants bring posca, a drink made from water and vinegar mixed with herbs and spices.
“You made this posca, didn’t you?” Lucianus asked. “It’s delicious.”
After quenching his parched throat with the refreshing beverage, he introduced his partner to his aunt.
“This man’s name is Dominatus, a gladiator,” he said. “Do you know of him?”
“I do,” Anela replied. “I’m not too fond of the colosseum, so I’ve never seen his matches, but I’ve heard of his name. Dominatus, was it? You’re rumored to be very strong.”
Dominatus bowed his head to the lady.
“It’s unusual for you to have a gladiator for a friend, Lucianus,” Anela said.
“He’s not just a friend,” Lucianus replied. “He’s, well… I’m not quite sure how to say this. He’s my b-beloved, so to speak…”
Lucianus fumbled over his words while divulging his relationship. This must be how it feels when your face is ablaze, he thought.
“He’s your lover, I take it?” Alena replied frankly.
“C-correct,” Lucianus nodded.
“I didn’t take you for a gay man, Lucianus. Not once did I notice that you had such tendencies.”
“I didn’t notice it myself until I met Dominatus. After much worrying and agonizing, I ended up falling deeply in love with this man to the point where I cannot live if he’s not by my side.”
Anela gave an awkward expression, but she understood Lucianus’s heartfelt words. She nodded and smiled.
“You used to only be interested in studying,” she said. “The fact that you’ve fallen in love with another person for the first time in your life is something to be celebrated. It’s proof of your maturity.”
“Thank you. But there’s actually one more thing you should know about us, my dear aunt.”
Lucianus spoke of Dominatus defeating Grucos, earning the ire of the emperor. As Dominatus was now a wanted man, Juliana had recommended the two to head for D’Aleppo.
“My goodness,” Alena said somberly. “Azerius has grown more tyrannical with age. His wife, Oltavia, had mentioned that she couldn’t stand his recent autocratic attitude. She only chooses to see him during public events.” She clutched Lucianus’s hands and said, “I agree with Juliana. You must head for my older brother in D’Aleppo. I’m sure that he’ll help you. This manor is safe for now, so spend a night here and leave early in the morning tomorrow.”
“Thank you, Aunt Alena,” Lucianus replied.
The two men were guided to a guest room to spend the night, and they were left alone. Lucianus gazed out the window as he breathed a sigh of relief.
“The red leaves look beautiful,” he noted.
The red and yellow trees were reflected in the surface of the clear lake, creating a gorgeous view.
“I’m sorry, Lucianus,” Dominatus said. “I dragged an innocent man like you into my problems.”
Lucianus whirled around and saw the gladiator staring at him, a gloomy shadow in his gaze.
“Innocent? This matter has everything to do with me,” Lucianus replied. “Your problems are mine as well. If the emperor aimed for my life, what would you do?”
“I’d risk my life to protect you, of course.”
Lucianus leaped into the arms of his partner, who embraced without a moment of hesitation.
“And the same goes for me,” Lucianus said. “I’d like to protect you, no matter the sacrifices that I make. Don’t you ever apologize to me again. Is that clear?”
“Lucianus…”
Dominatus wrapped his arms around the noble, his embrace so painfully tight. Lucianus entrusted his body to these strong arms.
“I love you,” the noble whispered into the gladiator’s ear. The words spilled out of his mouth like it was only natural. “I love you from the bottom of my heart.”
Upon hearing Lucianus’s confession, Dominatus changed his tune.
“You finally said it,” he said, a wide smile stretching across his face. “I’ve been waiting for you to say those words. I’d been a bit anxious, believing that perhaps you’d never tell me.”
“I-I’m not one to break a promise. But you know…”
“Know what?” Dominatus grinned.
“You know, timing. I was waiting for the opportune moment. There’s a time and place for everything, isn’t there?”
Dominatus hugged Lucianus and laughed jovially. He couldn’t stop laughing, finding this scene quite humorous. Lucianus couldn’t hide his annoyance as Dominatus continued to guffaw.
“You don’t have to laugh that hard!” Lucianus snapped.
“Oh, but I must. There’s really no such thing as an opportune moment when declaring your love to your partner. You’re so innocent and adorable. Ha ha ha!”
Lucianus simply couldn’t stay angry when he was called cute. He pounded Dominatus’s muscular chest several times to express his annoyance.
“Thank you, Lucianus,” Dominatus said. His face grew solemn, causing Lucianus’s chest to grow tight. “I’ve received your feelings loud and clear. Even when I was suffering from a horrible fever, I knew that you were glued by my side to nurse me back to health. I was haunted by nightmares, but every time your cold hands touched my cheek, my writhing heart calmed down. I’ve known it ever since I first met you. You’re a man with a kind heart.”
Lucianus gazed up at his partner with suspicion. “Are you sure? I don’t think I was kind to you during our initial meeting.”
The gladiator had been awfully rude when they’d first met, and so Lucianus angrily returned the favor, acting prideful. Truthfully, Lucianus had felt that their first impressions were horrible.
“You bought that child slave with good money, sparing him from being purchased by a brothel,” Dominatus said.
“You saw that?” Lucianus asked.
“Yeah. I then spotted some ruffians chasing after you, so I got curious and followed you into that alleyway.”
Lucianus had thought that Dominatus had happened upon them, but it seemed the gladiator had been worried about him.
“Why didn’t you tell me so?” Lucianus asked.
“Because you glared at me, implying that you needed no help.”
“I-I did no such thing.”
Despite the immediate reply, Lucianus recalled how embarrassed he was when he was injured, and how he’d been frustratingly called weak. Indeed, he had acted rather hostile to Dominatus during their first encounter.
“You were rude as well, staring at me,” Lucianus accused.
“I couldn’t help myself,” Dominatus replied. “You were just so beautiful when I saw you up close that you took my breath away. Seeing you stare back at me made my heart throb. I thought I was well past the age for such sentiments, and yet I was in a daze. I was disappointed in myself and equally embarrassed. My words came out harsher than I would’ve liked.”
The gladiator was smiling with his eyes. Lucianus couldn’t tell if those words were truth or flattery, and unsure of how to react, he silently nuzzled his face against Dominatus’s chest.
“I’m sorry for how I acted back then,” Dominatus admitted. “I’ve repented for what I’ve done, and I regret those actions.”
“Regret? Why do you say that?” Lucianus looked up in befuddlement as Dominatus gently brushed his fingers against the noble’s cheek.
“It was my fault for angering you first. Had I been kinder to you, surely you could’ve acted more true to yourself. I’d misunderstood your stubbornness as arrogance fitting of the wealthy son of a noble.”
“I don’t mind. It’s true that I’m arrogant. As the heir of a renowned noble family, I was raised without a care in the world, and I haven’t experienced any real suffering. It’s only natural for you to find me unpleasant.”
Dominatus gave a quick peck on Lucianus’s lips and chuckled. “I didn’t call you unpleasant. You’re not arrogant. You’re just prideful, that’s all.”
“It’s the same thing, isn’t it?”
“Not at all. Arrogant people think of themselves as better than others and tend to become condescending. A prideful man holds dignity in their nobility and rank while they try to maintain it. You’re a kind and virtuous person, but I was unable to see that at first and slept with you as though I was entertaining your whims. I’d been interested in you ever since we met, but I’m not a man worthy of a noble. I thought that I could only touch you by being paid. I deeply regret my first night in bed with you. I was unable to keep myself in check and treated you horribly.”
Dominatus’s amber eyes were clouded with grief. Lucianus didn’t want him to feel any sense of guilt—Lucianus was the one who’d initiated that exchange.
“You don’t have to worry about that. I was the one who provoked you,” Lucianus insisted.
“I was horribly scolded by Raifa,” Dominatus replied.
“By Raifa? You told him about what I did? You’re a horrible man!”
“I wanted his advice. I had no idea what was going through your mind. I could tell that you were in love with me, but I couldn’t understand why you acted like you were used to intercourse even though it was your first time. So, I asked Raifa about it, and he mocked me relentlessly. He said that if I claimed to only sleep with other men for fun, then surely, the only way you could have seduced me is under the guise of frivolous play. He called me dull, and Juliana also said that I was dense when it came to romance. I may be skilled with a sword, but I’m hopeless when it comes to true love. I’m just inexperienced. I’m sorry I am such a boorish man.”
He’s genuinely apologizing. Lucianus found these laudable words endearing and stroked Dominatus’s hair.
“I don’t mind at all,” Lucianus replied. “I’m not used to romance either. As long as our feelings for each other don’t waver, I see no issue. Am I wrong?”
His fingers glided across Dominatus’s lips, and Dominatus grasped Lucianus’s hand to plant a kiss on his fingernails.
“You’re not wrong at all,” Dominatus said. “Can I kiss you?”
“You can, but you can’t be so passionate you make my lips turn red.”
“I’ll do my best,” Dominatus whispered. He sweetly sealed the lips of his beloved with his own.
***
When the sun began to set, Juliana and Kaira arrived at Anela’s residence via carriage. Lucianus breathed a sigh of relief upon learning that the two were safe, and gave his heartfelt gratitude to the grace of the gods.
Anela hosted the most lavish feast she could muster for her nephew, niece, and the gladiator. Juliana spoke of her interaction with the soldiers as they ate.
“The Imperial Guards asked me if Dominatus was here, so I said that there was no such man,” she explained. “They were quite persistent, so I allowed them to search the entire manor.”
“Did they obediently leave after that?” Lucianus asked.
Juliana gave an awkward grimace. “For now.”
“What do you mean by that?”
“They know that Dominatus stayed at your manor for a while before heading to the villa in Filena with you. They probably were told as much by someone. The soldiers might report back to the emperor that you fled alongside him. It’ll be troublesome if that occurs.”
“Why’s that?”
“We’ll be easier to spot if we’re traveling together,” Dominatus answered.
“You’ll stand out even if you travel alone,” Lucianus countered.
“If you’re by his side, Lucianus, you two will stand out even more,” Juliana said. “A beautiful young man traveling with a muscular man will surely attract attention. You guys don’t look like family or siblings or business partners.”
“What about master and servant? Isn’t that more natural?”
“Maybe, but you stand out, Lucianus. The deeper into the countryside you go, the more shocked people will be to see such a beautiful man.”
“You’re exaggerating,” Lucianus replied with a forced chuckle.
“Not at all,” Juliana grumbled. “You’re way too ignorant of your appearance! You should be more aware of how much attention you attract!”
“You think he wouldn’t attract as much attention if he was a lady?” Anela asked innocently. “Beautiful women aren’t so rare.”
“That’s it!” Juliana cried, clapping her hands together.
Lucianus was utterly perplexed. “What’s it?”
“You just need to dress up as a lady and act like Dominatus’s wife! It’s not odd for a couple to go on a vacation together.”
“What?! You want me to act like a woman? There’s no way I can do something like that.”
Despite Lucianus’s hasty protest, Juliana refused to back down. “It’s the only method we’ve got if we want you to travel safely.”
“Acting like a woman would be pointless. Dominatus is famous and he’ll stand out immediately.”
“Not true,” Dominatus said. “Many people don’t recognize me outside of the colosseum. I’m sure fewer people will know of my face outside of Dyna.”
Juliana nodded. She was sure to have her way this time. “It’s best for you to disguise yourself as a woman, Lucianus.”
***
The next morning, before dawn broke, Lucianus was dressed in women’s clothes. Juliana and Anela were hard at work, fussing over his attire.
“This outfit looks better,” Anela said.
“Aunt Anela, don’t you think this wig works better on Lucianus?” Juliana asked.
“You’re right. I would’ve liked a blonde wig because it suits him best, but that color is better to completely change his appearance.”
“We should also give him a red lip stain. It’s very popular right now.”
The two women seemed to be enjoying themselves as Lucianus let out an internal sigh. I guess women like to play dress-up even when they’re adults.
“Perfect,” Juliana said. “You look like a woman no matter how you slice it.”
She led him to a mirror so that Lucianus could catch a glimpse of himself. He was aware that he had feminine features, but he was convinced that he could never truly look like a woman. He was shocked when he saw his own face.
“I…look like a lady,” he said.
“You do, don’t you?” Juliana replied. “No one will think that you’re a man in this attire.”
Lucianus looked like a strong-minded woman. Was it perhaps because of the red hair that was neatly tied up, or the striking red lips? He looked rather passionate, and even he had to admit that he looked like a completely different person.
His robe, decorated with vibrant embroidery, was securely fastened with the two belts wrapped around his waist and chest, and the garment draped over his body elegantly. His chest area had been padded, making it seem like he had a full bosom.
Dominatus was waiting for him in the living room, standing by a window. He was cloaked in a hooded mantle and leather boots. When he glanced at the approaching noble, he cracked a smile.
“I’m shocked,” he said. “You’ve transformed into a completely different person.”
“I feel glum thinking that I’ll be traveling like this,” Lucianus admitted. “Where’d you get that sword?”
A blade hung by Dominatus’s waist. “The mistress gave it to me,” he answered. “It’s a fine weapon.”
“Long ago, my husband used that sword when he was in the military,” Anela said. “He liked strong gladiators, so I’m sure he’ll be happy to see you use it.”
“You have my utmost gratitude,” Dominatus replied.
“I pray for your safety.”
She nodded and unfolded a long shawl in her arms, wrapping it around Lucianus’s head and shoulders.
“I’ve packed a fur coat and some boots,” she said. “Be sure to wear them when you get cold. It’s already winter in the north, so it’ll be tough for you. You’re used to the warm climate of Dyna. And the cold tends to weaken a person’s spirit.” Worry riddled her face.
“I’ll be fine,” Lucianus smiled. “I’ll overcome any obstacle in my way and reach D’Aleppo.”
“I pray that the gods shower you with blessings, my beloved nephew.”
Lucianus left after his final hugs from Anela and Juliana. Dawn was beginning to break, and the eastern skies were growing brighter. Kaira waited with two horses in front of the stables. The servant remained expressionless upon seeing his master in such a feminine state. He said not a word and gazed at Lucianus, but the noble understood Kaira’s thoughts very well.
“I’ll be off, Kaira,” Lucianus said.
“I pray for your safe travels,” Kaira replied.
The night prior, the servant insisted on tagging along, but Lucianus had claimed that only Kaira could be trusted to manage House Carusso. With tears in his eyes, Kaira reluctantly promised to return to Dyna.
“I swear to return to your side,” Lucianus said. “Please look after my house and my slaves in my stead.”
He hugged Kaira. The noble hadn’t left his servant’s side for even a day; Kaira had always stayed with his master and loyally served Lucianus for many years. Kaira was a compassionate man, and it was painful to leave his side. Lucianus felt like a lonely child, forced to leave behind his parent—he felt like he was parting with something important to him. But Lucianus had decided to leave with Dominatus; this pain was something the noble had to endure.
“I shall eagerly await your return, my lord,” Kaira said.
Lucianus nodded and tried to mount his horse.
“I’ll lend you a hand,” Dominatus said, approaching Lucianus.
“No need,” the noble replied.
“You’re still not used to your attire. I’m sure it’ll be difficult for you. Come, place your foot right here.”
Dominatus slapped his own bent knee. Lucianus didn’t want to disrespect the offer and used the knee as footing to mount his steed. He thought that he didn’t need help, but the long hem of his robe gave him a more difficult time than his usual attire, and even the most usual of tasks were challenging.
“Aunt Anela, you have my deepest gratitude for your kindness,” Lucianus said. “Thank you too, Juliana. Thanks to you, Dominatus was able to evade capture.” He paused before he finally said, “I’ll be off.”
The three sent the two men off—Dominatus and Lucianus rode away on horseback. Lucianus still mulled over his separation from Kaira, but he knew that he had to switch his focus.
“Will we reach Trias today?” he asked cheerfully.
“If all goes well, we should be there by sundown,” Dominatus replied.
“Will we be able to find lodging?”
“We don’t have to worry about that. Trias is a large city.”
“Have you been there before?”
“Many years ago, yes. I was in a gladiator school there. Even after I was transferred to Dyna, I’ve had to visit Trias a couple times for work. Their colosseum is rather splendid.” Dominatus fell silent before he added, “Lucianus, when you’re on the horse, you should act a bit more modest.”
Lucianus looked perplexed as he turned to Dominatus beside him, who was gripping the reins.
“Your hems were pulled up earlier and I could see your thighs,” the gladiator said.
“Is that an issue?” Lucianus asked.
“You’re pretending to be a lady. When you’re dressed like that, you should act more ladylike.”
For a moment, Lucianus agreed with this assessment, but he noticed a mischievous twinkle in Dominatus’s eye—he was being teased.
“I’ll act like a lady when I need to,” Lucianus replied, giving Dominatus a side-eye. “I won’t do so just to humor you.”
“You’re my wife from today on. If you don’t act like a lady on a daily basis with me, people will soon realize that we aren’t a married couple. You should try being more ladylike. It’ll help you keep your wits about you.”
Lucianus rebuffed these incessant requests. “Don’t toy with me. Act like a wife? Surely, you’re the one who needs to keep his wits about him. You’re always teasing me while acting like you’re joking.”
“Now, now, there’s no need for you to be so angry. I’m relieved to see you acting like your usual self.”
When Dominatus smiled, Lucianus realized that his thoughts had been read. Dominatus had noticed his glum expression and had teased Lucianus in hopes of making him feel a bit better. You’re just a big bully! Surely, Dominatus could’ve taken the normal route to cheer Lucianus up. There was no need to anger him. Doing so would only have Dominatus’s kindness go unnoticed.
“You’re clumsy yourself,” Lucianus muttered.
“Did you say something?” Dominatus asked. He leaned closer to hear his beloved’s words.
“Nothing.”
Lucianus kicked his horse to spur it faster, leaving Dominatus in the dust. Dominatus muttered something behind him, but he pretended not to notice.
Chapter 3
Chapter 3
THE PAIR REACHED TRIAS WHILE IT WAS STILL BRIGHT outside. As Dominatus had said, it was a large city with many people, and was bustling with life. They were able to find lodgings for the night almost immediately. It looked like a shabby place to Lucianus, but Dominatus had claimed that it was good enough—so he chose to bear with it.
The mistress of the inn asked Lucianus about dinner. He may have had a high-pitched voice for a man, but he sounded nothing like a woman. As he panicked, unable to utter a sound as he tried to scramble for an answer, Dominatus came to the rescue.
“We’d like dinner, please,” Dominatus said. “My wife has been unable to speak ever since birth. Please ask me if you’ve got any questions.”
“Oh dear, I had no idea. You have my deepest sympathies,” the mistress said at Lucianus with pity.
The noble wasn’t used to such piteous gazes. Unsure of how to react, he gave a small bow. The men were guided to a room on the second floor—a simple space with only two beds. When the mistress left, Lucianus gave a huge sigh.
“It’s exhausting acting like a woman,” he said. “And my behind hurts from riding a horse for the whole day.”
“I’ll go tend to the horses,” Dominatus replied. “When that’s done, I’ll massage your buttocks.”
Lucianus was too tired to offer a witty retort to the joke, and he quietly watched Dominatus leave. The noble removed his wig, providing himself with a moment of freedom from the suffocating disguise. He sank into bed with exhaustion, hoping to lie down for only a short while, but he fell asleep almost instantly. When he came to, he noticed that it was getting dark outside. There was no sign of Dominatus. Lucianus hastily put on his wig and went down to the first floor where Dominatus was enjoying some wine with his meal and engaged in a pleasant conversation with a few ladies.
“Ah, you’re awake, Luciana.” Dominatus had noticed that his partner had appeared, and the other ladies bowed before they dispersed.
“I was just about to wake you up,” Dominatus said. “You must be hungry. Why not have a bite to eat?”
“I want to go elsewhere,” Lucianus whispered. He tugged on his partner’s arm.
“This place is just fine. Their food is quite delicious.”
Lucianus shook his head and headed outside as Dominatus quickly followed.
“I’d like to eat food from a proper establishment,” Lucianus said. “I saw a tidy restaurant serving Varisian cuisine on our way here. I want to eat there.”
“That place looked expensive,” Dominatus replied.
“Does it matter? I’ve got plenty of money.”
“We should be more frugal. We don’t know what future awaits us.”
Dominatus was right, but Lucianus couldn’t forget the smile of his beloved as he chatted with those other ladies just moments ago.
“It’s my money,” Lucianus replied pompously. “I’m bearing with staying in this dirty inn, so I’d like to at least eat where I please.”
“All right,” Dominatus relented. “Let’s eat what you want.”
Lucianus had expected to be scolded, but instead, his selfish request had been granted.
“I’m sure you’ll regain your energy if you eat your favorite foods,” Dominatus added, gently placing an arm around Lucianus’s shoulders.
Lucianus was embarrassed by his selfish request, born out of his silly jealousy. He felt like a small child that was being pacified.
The restaurant they went to was more expensive than Lucianus expected. For appetizers, there was smoked boar meat sent from the Nibara region, garnished with lettuce, turnips, and celery. Expensive wine from Caroque was brought out as an aperitif. The main course was the thigh of a crane, seasoned with salt and sauces, coupled with sandpiper breast laid on a bed of sweet figs. Each dish was exquisitely crafted and tasted superb.
“These dishes are worth their cost. They’re all delicious,” Dominatus said. He looked more than satisfied.
Lucianus’s mind was elsewhere, and he found himself unable to enjoy the meal. Once they paid and stepped outside, it was well into the night. Prostitutes stood in the alleys in hopes of attracting more customers, and drunkards were causing an uproar in the taverns. The nightlife of this city had a different kind of noisiness from the afternoon as the two men walked back to the inn.
“Hey,” a voice called from behind. “Is that you, Dominatus?”
Lucianus jolted in shock, and Dominatus pushed the noble behind him. After Lucianus was shielded from view, Dominatus turned around, his hand on the sword by his waist. Lucianus stood terrified, expecting a clash of cold steel.
“Karlthus?” Dominatus murmured. He didn’t sound cautious.
“I knew it was you, Dominatus!” Karlthus cried. “Long time no see!”
With a large, beaming smile, the burly Karlthus approached Dominatus and the two exchanged an aggressive hug. Karlthus’s eyes drooped just a little when he smiled, and he looked like a friendly man.
“I didn’t think you were still alive!” Dominatus exclaimed. “You’re a persistent guy.”
“Of course I am. I’m not gonna die so easily,” Karlthus replied. “I’m an instructor at a gladiator school now.”
“You saved up and became a free man, then?”
Karlthus puffed his chest out proudly. “Yep, I’m no longer a slave. I’m glad to see you doing well too. What brings you to this neck of the woods?”
“I’m in the middle of a little trip. We’re on a journey to visit my wife’s hometown.” Clearly, Dominatus wasn’t willing to tell the truth to even his good friend.
“You’ve got yourself a wife? So, you’re a married man now?”
“Yeah, we married recently. Her name’s Luciana, and she was born mute.”
“Hello there. I’m Karlthus,” the man said to Lucianus. “I used to be in the same gladiator school with Dominatus, and I owe my life to your husband. He saved me countless times in the past. You’re a very pretty woman, aren’t you? You even look like a noble, to boot.”
“She’s had a good upbringing,” Dominatus replied. “Why don’t we catch up and have a drink for old times’ sake? We’re staying in an inn nearby. Will you come back with us to the dining room on the first floor?”
“I’ll never say no to you,” Karlthus said with a smile. “I actually wanted to tell you something.”
The trio reached the inn and sat at a table in the corner of the dining area. They exchanged a small toast as they downed their drinks.
“Your battle with Grucos has reached all the way to this city,” Karlthus said. “I heard you were gravely injured, but are you all right?”
“My wounds have mostly healed,” Dominatus replied. “What did you want to tell me?”
Karlthus lowered his voice. “The emperor’s soldiers came to our gladiator school.”
“The Imperial Guards? When?”
“This afternoon. They were looking for you. What exactly did you do?”
Dominatus glanced at Lucianus, his gaze inquiring if he could tell Karlthus the truth. The noble gave a small nod in response.
“Azerius favored Grucos,” Dominatus said. “Since I killed him, the emperor’s trying to pin me for treason, but I’ve never done anything of the sort.”
“What?” Karlthus replied. “So, did you actually flee Dyna with your wife?”
“Yes. I’m planning on being sheltered in a city in the far north, my wife’s birthplace.” Dominatus still stretched the truth as he feared the worst.
“That’s horrible. Azerius’s popularity has been plummeting around here recently. The increased taxes, tyrannical rule of the officials, and the rotten world of politics have all created a perfectly horrible government.”
“Dyna’s no different. The senators are all Azerius’s pawns, and the senate hasn’t been functioning properly.”
The two men continued their conversation, catching up on various matters as they slammed down several glasses of wine. Lucianus wasn’t good with alcohol, so he nursed his drink before he stood up and left for bed. He’d gotten to sleep first, but when he woke up in the middle of night, the bed beside him was still empty. Is he still drinking? Lucianus thought wearily. But he immediately grew worried that Dominatus could be lying drunk and unconscious somewhere, and headed downstairs after placing a shawl around his head.
The lights were out in the dining room, and only Dominatus and Karlthus were sitting at a table. The faint light of a lamp illuminated the two men’s faces.
“She’s a beautiful woman, but isn’t she still a child? She doesn’t seem very friendly either,” Karlthus said.
“Luciana is an adult,” Dominatus replied. “She may look cold, but she’s very loving and compassionate.”
Lucianus instinctively hid behind the staircase upon hearing his name mentioned.
“That so,” Karlthus mused. “As long as you’re happy, that’s fine with me. I guess you’ve put Havilah behind you now.”
Who? Lucianus pressed his ear against the wall to learn more about this mysterious person.
“That was so long ago. It’s in the past now,” Dominatus replied.
“But you weren’t able to forget her for so long,” Karlthus pointed out. “I can sympathize. She was a fine woman, kind and bright. She took good care of you too.”
Dominatus silently sipped on his drink.
“Sorry,” Karlthus said. He gave a wry smile. “You’re right. It’s all in the past now. I was just worried that you might stay single for the rest of your life. I’m relieved to see that you have married. You deserve a quiet life in her hometown.”
Karlthus’s face was red from the liquor as he fumbled over his words. Lucianus silently crept back up the staircase and into his room. His heart was pounding out of his chest and his fingertips were quickly growing cold. Havilah is the name of a woman that Dominatus once loved. Judging from Karlthus’s words, Dominatus must’ve loved her deeply. While the reasons for their separation were unknown, it was clear that Dominatus had been affected by this heartbreak for many years. Dominatus is a grown man. Of course he’s loved a woman or two before. Lucianus knew that, but logic could find no purchase in his heart. His mind became a muddled mess, and his downhearted feelings sent him into a downward spiral.
Karlthus is right. I’m still just a child. I may be an adult in age, but my mind is still immature. Lucianus had lived his life isolated from society, paying no heed to love or romance, after all. Hence, he was all riled up simply from learning that Dominatus had once been truly in love with a woman.
After a good while, Dominatus returned to the room, but Lucianus feigned sleep. He feared that he’d barrage Dominatus with questions about Havilah if the two were to converse. Dominatus lay in the bed right next to Lucianus, and his slumbering breaths soon filled the room. He was so close, but tonight he felt so far away from Lucianus.
Even if he loved someone deeply in the past, I’m the one beside him right now. I know that he loves me. I shouldn’t worry about the women that he used to be with. Lucianus kept repeating this mantra in his head as he fell back asleep.
***
The next morning, when Lucianus awoke, the bed beside him was empty. He got dressed and headed downstairs, where he spotted Dominatus enjoying breakfast alone.
“You could’ve woken me up,” Lucianus grumbled, taking a seat across from his partner.
Dominatus shrugged. “You seemed fast asleep.”
By the time Lucianus’s food was brought out, Dominatus had already finished eating.
“Take your time,” he said. “I’ll go check on the horses.”
Lucianus started eating only after he saw Dominatus go. Breakfast was a thin slice of toast, a chickpea tart, and a vegetable pottage. He was tempted to sigh as he ate. Ever since his father passed, Lucianus was used to eating alone. He was also aware just how bland the food tasted when he had no one else to share it with.
I wanted to eat with Dominatus. They didn’t need to talk; Lucianus just wanted to face his beloved and share a meal. That alone would make him happy, but perhaps Dominatus couldn’t relate. Or is this another one of my selfish whims inspired by my immaturity?
The day was overcast. The gloomy clouds painted the sky gray, reflecting Lucianus’s mindset. Gazing out the window only made him feel worse. After he finished his meal, the two prepared to leave and stepped out of the inn. They were heading for the square on horseback when they saw the city’s guards posting a decree on a notice board. Proclamations issued by the mayor or emperor would often be posted, and a crowd of citizens gathered to read the news.
“Hey, what does it say?” one asked. “I can’t read. I need someone to tell me.”
“That’s a wanted poster,” another replied. “The emperor’s searching for the rebel gladiator, Dominatus.”
“The Dominatus is a wanted man now?” a third chimed in.
The men in front of Lucianus were causing a stir.
“Dominatus isn’t a rebel. This must be some sort of mistake,” a pudgy woman said. She stood next to the chattering crowd and turned to a man beside her. “There’s no other gladiator as impressive as him. Isn’t he a hero?”
“Dominatus might be a hero, but he became too strong,” the man replied. “Perhaps he lost his respectful attitude toward the emperor.”
“Residents of Trias, listen well!” a guard shouted. The crowd died down as they murmured quietly to each other. “Dominatus the gladiator has fled after being questioned for treason by the emperor! There’s a good chance that he’s on the run with another man who helped his escape. The young man is apparently blond and very beautiful. If you see these two men, let the guards know immediately. If your tip leads to Dominatus’s capture, the emperor will reward you with two hundred gold coins!”
The crowd started to chatter. This was an impressive amount of money for them. Lucianus glanced at Dominatus, implying that they should leave immediately, and Dominatus nodded in agreement. He was tugging his mantle over his face when one of the guards gazing at the excited people spotted the pair.
“Halt! Stop right there, you two!” the guard called.
Lucianus and Dominatus had no choice but to stop their horses. They were likely unfamiliar with two men’s faces, and there was hope that this was a simple investigation—nothing more. If the Imperial Guards were called, the men’s identities would be discovered immediately.
The guards waded through the crowd to approach them. Dominatus’s gaze implied that he’d cut them down and flee if necessary.
“Are you two travelers? Take off your hoods and let me see your faces,” the guard barked.
Dominatus had been in this city before, and there were residents who may recognize his face. Knowing he could only buy a few seconds, Lucianus spurred his horse forward and stood in front.
“Quit your dawdling!” the guard ordered.
Lucianus removed his hood and stared down at the man.
“Huh, she’s a real beauty!” someone in the crowd remarked. “Her flaming red hair is so enticing.”
“Hey, guard!” another called out. “Some eyes you’ve got! She ain’t blonde!”
The crowd erupted in laughter, much to the guard’s chagrin.
“Hey, let me see the man’s face!” he roared.
Dominatus slowly removed his hood as Lucianus’s heart pounded with anxiety. Any moment now, someone could shout, “Hey, that’s Dominatus!” and cause the guard to pounce. Lucianus’s hands grew sweaty as he gripped his reins. When about half of Dominatus’s hood had been peeled off his face, another voice shot through the crowd.
“I saw Dominatus!” a man shouted.
Everyone immediately turned to the man who had his arm raised high in the air—Karlthus. The guard hastily turned around and headed for Karlthus.
“Are you certain that you saw him?” the guard barked.
“No doubt about it, sir!” Karlthus replied. “I used to be a gladiator, so I know Dominatus very well. I lived with him for years, and there’s no way I mistook him! As you’ve said, he was with a beautiful young man with golden locks! They went down Kharbila Street and out of the city, headed west.”
“Around what time did they leave?”
“Early in the morning, I believe. I’d been drinking with an old friend last night, and when I was returning home, I spotted Dominatus! I called out to him, but he ignored me and fled. I saved his life countless times in the past, and yet he dares to act so insolent!”
Karlthus’s angry act fooled the guards spectacularly.
“Head west! After them! Let the Imperial Guards know!” a guard ordered, hastily leaving the scene.
As the crowd started to disperse once the fuss died down, Karlthus flashed a triumphant grin. I didn’t do too shabby, eh? his expression seemed to imply. Lucianus bowed his head, and Dominatus gave a deep nod of gratitude.
Thanks to Karlthus’s quick thinking, Dominatus and Lucianus were able to make their escape. They left Trias on a road that went north. Rain started to fall during their trip, but the wanted men were allowed no luxury to stop until the rain let up. They plodded along under the cold shower.
They took a few short breaks for the horses, but they were soon riding on their steeds once more. They managed to arrive at their city for the night ahead of schedule, but by the time they found an inn, Lucianus’s fingers were numb and could barely move. His body was as cold as ice and his teeth were chattering as he was unable to hide his trembling. The young mistress of the inn was a kind woman, and felt sorry for Lucianus, telling him to sit in front of the fireplace to warm up. Dominatus left almost immediately to take care of the horses.
Does he care more about the horses than me? Lucianus felt miserable, like his heart was about to freeze despite sitting in front of the fire. Even a simple question about his well-being could’ve prevented him from feeling so down.
Dominatus hardly said two words during their entire ride to this city. He may have been tired from the rain, but Lucianus couldn’t bring himself to start a conversation when he saw Dominatus frowning. Amid the silence, Lucianus had wondered several times if Dominatus was thinking about Havilah. Did Dominatus’s meeting with an old friend cause him to reminisce about the old days and yearn for his past lover? Battered by the cold, exhaustion, and anxiety, Lucianus’s mood didn’t lighten even after he retired to his room where he was left alone with his partner.
“Are you all right?” Dominatus finally asked.
But the words came too late, and Lucianus didn’t respond as he snuggled into bed.
“Lucianus, say something,” Dominatus prodded.
“I’m tired,” Lucianus replied quietly. “I’ll be resting until dinner.” He covered his head with a blanket.
“Are you angry with me? Why? At what?”
“I’m not angry. I just want some rest. Can you leave me alone?”
Dominatus gave an exaggerated sigh at Lucianus’s back. “You’re not a child. If there’s anything you want to say, you should tell me.”
The scolding tone irked Lucianus. Of course he had a mountain of things he wanted to say. He wanted to ask about Havilah, and he was upset by Dominatus’s lack of consideration. But Lucianus was aware that these were all his selfish requests—he had chosen to hold his tongue and stay silent so that he wouldn’t sound self-absorbed. Why is he scolding me now?
“Perhaps you’re the one who has something to say to me,” Lucianus countered.
“What? What do you mean by that?”
“Be quiet. I’m going to sleep, so don’t bother me.”
Sharply rebuffed, Dominatus sighed and left the room.
***
Dominatus had fallen silent, conveying that he was annoyed by Lucianus’s attitude. Lucianus didn’t say a word either, and the two ate dinner in silence. He wasn’t allowed to speak anyway since he was masquerading as a mute woman. After their meal, Dominatus went to the bath to clean up, but Lucianus wasn’t allowed this luxury. Left with no other choice, he asked the inn’s mistress for some warm water, and used a damp cloth to wipe himself down.
Back in his manor in Dyna, Lucianus had taken a hot bath everyday with slaves massaging his body before he slathered on some scented oil to head to bed. Now forced to wipe himself in a dimly lit, cramped room, he felt so miserable that tears stung his eyes. While it was true that he couldn’t enjoy the luxuries that he had until now, what hurt him most was the cold attitude of Dominatus. Had the gladiator offered even a smidgen more kindness, Lucianus wouldn’t be brought to tears simply by being denied a bath. Dominatus was the only one capable of affecting the noble so deeply.
Lucianus knew that he was partially to blame as well. No one would want to be kind to someone who was brusque. If he wanted kindness, he simply needed to be most honest with himself, but he couldn’t do so. I’ll apologize to him when he returns. I’ll tell him that I acted prickly because I was jealous of Havilah. But Dominatus didn’t return, and Lucianus fell back asleep.
The next morning, Lucianus awoke with a splitting headache. His body felt warm, and his throat felt sore—he’d caught a cold. Dominatus was sound asleep in the bed beside him, and Lucianus decided to apologize once they departed. There was no need to wake Dominatus up, and they could enjoy a leisurely chat on horseback.
The two men departed the inn after breakfast. The rain had let up overnight, but the trip was a difficult one for Lucianus, who was still suffering from his illness. He desperately fought against the impulse to lie down and continued to grip his reins, but by the afternoon, he was starting to reach his limit.
“Lucianus, are you ill?” Dominatus asked.
“It’s just a little cold. I’m fine,” Lucianus replied. He tried to force a smile, but he couldn’t even make the corners of his mouth tug upward.
Dominatus jumped off his steed and ordered Lucianus to do the same. The noble’s body felt heavy like a lump of lead, and he struggled to even raise his legs.
“Climb onto my horse,” Dominatus said. “I’ll ride with you and support you from behind.”
“I’m fine. I can ride alone,” Lucianus insisted.
“Look at you. You can hardly sit upright. What will you do if you fall off your horse?”
The noble reacted instinctively to the harsh tone. “I won’t. I’ve never fallen off a horse once in my entire life.”
“Enough!” Dominatus shouted. “Stop being needlessly stubborn!”
Lucianus jolted in surprise. It was the first time he’d ever been so loudly scolded by his partner. Silence settled between the two after Dominatus’s outburst.
“Just hop on,” Dominatus said.
He still had an awful scowl on his face, but he lifted Lucianus up on top of the horse. Dominatus situated Lucianus in front of him and grabbed the reins of both horses as he continued on. Lucianus’s horse obediently walked beside them.
“Lean onto my chest,” Dominatus said. He tugged Lucianus’s head back. Without any energy left in him to struggle, Lucianus leaned his head against the gladiator’s shoulder. “You’re really warm. Since when have you had a fever?”
“I didn’t have one this morning.”
“I’m sorry for shouting earlier. Forgive me.”
Lucianus gently shook his head. It was only natural for Dominatus to be angry; Lucianus had been meaning to apologize for his actions all along. Since yesterday, he’d wanted to sit down and talk and straighten things out, but his brain wouldn’t allow it. He closed his eyes as he leaned on Dominatus.
***
“Lucianus, we’re here. Wake up,” Dominatus said.
They’d arrived at the next city while Lucianus had slept.
“Are we at Ponaris already?” he asked.
“We’re at Obeiro. We’ll stay here for the night.”
The sun was still high in the sky, and they’d planned to stop in Ponaris, located farther ahead. Dominatus had decided to already call it a day, likely out of consideration for Lucianus’s health. This made Lucianus feel even worse, knowing that he was dragging his beloved down. Obeiro was a city where the roads from the north to the south and the east to the west intersected. There were plenty of inns available, and Dominatus chose one that was a bit more lavish than usual. His kind gesture implied that he wanted Lucianus to get a good night’s rest, but the noble felt guilty and was unable to feel genuinely happy about it.
The two were guided into a room and Lucianus rested in bed until Dominatus brought him a mug of warm goat milk.
“Drink it,” he said. “It’ll warm you up.”
“I can’t drink that,” Lucianus replied. “Only barbarians drink milk from an animal’s teat.” He was fond of cheese, but he had never drunk goat or donkey milk before.
“Only the pompous wealthy folk of Dyna say that,” Dominatus replied. “Milk is very good for your body. There’s still some time until dinner, so drink up and rest.”
Lucianus reluctantly accepted the wooden mug and took a sip. Honey and some other spices had been mixed with the milk to add a touch of sweetness, and he found it to be surprisingly delicious.
“How is it?” Dominatus asked.
“It’s not bad,” Lucianus replied.
“I thought so.” He grinned and petted Lucianus’s head. “The cold rain from yesterday must’ve affected you. I’m sorry for pushing you past your limits.” With that, he turned to leave.
“Where are you going?” Lucianus asked.
“I’m going to ask the owner of this inn for the route from here to D’Aleppo. I’ve only ever come this far myself. You should be able to rest better alone. Get some sleep.”
Left alone, Lucianus let out a small sigh and lay down on the bed. I made him worry about me again. He must be disappointed in me. I was so cocky in declaring that I could endure any sort of hardship, but all I’ve done is complain that my butt is sore and that I want to eat good food. What’s more, I got a fever simply by being in the rain. I’m pathetic.
Above all else, he found it most pathetic that he was unable to restrain his feelings. He’d be angry one moment, then sad or anxious the next—he felt emotionally unstable. Until now, Lucianus had viewed himself as a logical person. Indeed, he’d never gotten too emotional about others before. He’d been that way since he was a child. But when it came to Dominatus, every minute detail made Lucianus a wreck, and he’d often say things that he regretted. He understood that love made people act out, but he was disappointed by how pathetic he was. There was nothing more miserable than self-loathing.
Juliana had once said that love involved self-satisfaction and the desire to make oneself happy. Romance was different. It involved the person thinking about their partner, and the desire to make the other person satisfied and happy. Lucianus was deeply in love with Dominatus and had claimed that he was willing to throw his life away for the gladiator. These words weren’t lies. And yet, despite this love, Lucianus would get angry and pout at the most minor of inconveniences. He felt like an adult and a child were wrestling inside his mind.
When he fell in love with Dominatus, Lucianus realized how mysterious a person’s heart was. He understood just how immature he’d been, and how fragile his heart could be. He’d thought that he was tougher, but that was simply arrogance born from ignorance. He didn’t regret falling in love with Dominatus, but Lucianus missed his old self, who had constantly maintained his composure. Still, not once did he believe that he’d have been better off never meeting his love.
Lucianus could hate himself, but he could never hate Dominatus. Lucianus’s heart beat solely because of him. Any pain and suffering he felt was proof that Lucianus had fallen in love with Dominatus.
Chapter 4
Chapter 4
LUCIANUS’S FEVER DIDN’T GO DOWN THE FOLLOWING day, and they had to stay another night. On the evening of their second day, while Lucianus was dozing off in bed, Dominatus returned to the room, looking grim.
“I’ve got a problem, and I’d like to hear your opinion,” Dominatus started. He began to report all the information that he’d gathered in the dining area. “The heavy rains have caused a massive landslide, closing off our route to the north. We won’t be able to use that road for quite a while.”
“Are there any other paths?” Lucianus asked.
“We can do a long detour and take the route by the ocean. Our other option is to go through Mount Toquila.” Dominatus frowned, clearly against both options.
“The route by the ocean will lengthen our trip considerably, won’t it?”
“Yeah, by at least two weeks. If we go through the mountain, our overall journey will actually be cut down.”
“Then let’s go through the mountain.”
Lucianus had only heard of Mount Toquila, but he’d been told that the mountain wasn’t too tall. The sooner they could make it to D’Aleppo, the better.
“If we start climbing early in the morning, we should be on the other side by sundown, no?” Lucianus asked.
“If all goes well, yes,” Dominatus replied. “The guests in the dining area knew quite a bit about Mount Toquila, and they told me all about it. There’s a bit of snowfall currently, but not too much. If the weather is good, it shouldn’t be a problem, but if we’re caught in a blizzard, it will take much longer than a day to cross.”
Even so, Lucianus insisted on crossing the mountain. He felt like Dominatus had wanted to do so, but was only hesitant to suggest it because the noble was sick. Lucianus didn’t want the gladiator to worry about such a thing.
“All right. Then we’ll head that way,” Dominatus said. “Let’s cross the mountain on foot to reach the town.” He stood up and ended the conversation. “I’ll go get you your dinner.”
“Dominatus,” Lucianus called out.
He stopped and turned back. “Yeah?”
“I’d like to apologize to you.”
Dominatus furrowed his brows. “Why?”
“I feel bad. It wasn’t supposed to be like this. I was naïve, and I feel pathetic for taking so long to realize my misunderstandings.”
Only after they embarked on this journey did Lucianus realize how frail and foolish he was. A child may know that fire is hot, but they won’t understand just how dangerous and hot it truly is until they burn themselves. Lucianus was experiencing something similar as he analyzed himself. Dominatus was silent, and Lucianus feared that he hadn’t explained himself well enough.
“I thought I knew myself better than anyone else,” he continued. “But I was horribly wrong. I’m frail and weak, and I wanted to apologize to you from the bottom of my heart.”
“Enough. Everyone has misunderstandings,” Dominatus replied with a scowl.
Why is he angry at me even though I’m apologizing? Did he not like the way I apologized?
Lucianus was at his wits’ end. “Are you angry?” he asked.
“No. I’m just disappointed in you,” Dominatus replied.
It was like a slap in the face. Lucianus forgot to breathe for a moment; he’d never felt such despair. He had offered his heartfelt apology, but all he received was rebuke. He’d expected Dominatus to laugh it off and forgive him, but perhaps Lucianus’s way of thinking had been naïve as well. Or is this just Dominatus’s true form? If so, then I should be the one who’s disappointed in him. I thought you were more forgiving, but here you are, reproaching a man who’s apologizing. You’re so narrow-minded. Besides, you’re always…
Lucianus gasped. Before he knew it, he was attacking his partner again. He shook his head, blaming himself for being unable to suppress these emotions that reflexively welled up inside of him. I must maintain my composure. He probably has his fair share of complaints with me. No doubt he decided to voice them now because Lucianus seemed more receptive to harsh criticism. If I truly feel remorse, I shouldn’t attack him but accept these words instead.
After a while, Dominatus returned with dinner. Lucianus smiled and offered his thanks for the food, hoping to convey that he wasn’t bothered by the gladiator’s earlier words.
“I’ll be eating downstairs,” Dominatus said.
With that, he promptly left. He clearly avoided Lucianus’s gaze. Dominatus must’ve been furious. Lucianus was completely heartbroken, but he thought that he deserved it all. He could only endure Dominatus’s cold attitude until that anger faded.
***
The next day, Lucianus felt a lot better. He still had a slight fever, but he was more energetic than the day before. The pair had an early breakfast and set off. Dominatus was as cold as usual, but every now and then, he expressed his concern for Lucianus’s condition. When Lucianus spoke to him, he responded as well. For now, that was enough for Lucianus. He suppressed his sadness and tried to act as calm as he could.
They arrived at the town at the foot of Mount Toquila at around sundown. It was a small town, nestled in between mountains, and Mount Toquila towered behind them, its cap white with snow. Dyed red by the sunset, the mountain’s rugged terrain was breathtakingly beautiful.
The pair found an inn by the town square. Due to the lack of any other eateries, many locals treated the first-floor dining area of the inn as a tavern, and it was extremely crowded. Lucianus and Dominatus didn’t want to stand out, so they found a table in the corner to eat their dinner.
“I didn’t think they wouldn’t have wine,” Dominatus grumbled.
It was a rare sight to see him voice a complaint as he took a swig of beer. He frowned, possibly displeased by the taste. “I suppose it’s only natural for a place with no grapes to only have beer,” Dominatus said.
Beer was seen as an inferior beverage, often drunk by slaves. It was cheaper than wine, and the people of Dyna viewed it as a drink reserved for the barbarians of the north. Lucianus was fond of sweet drinks, and he had a mug of mead.
“Hey, lady! Bring us another pint, will ya?” a man shouted.
Five ruffians were seated at a table in the middle of the floor. They clearly looked like they were up to no good, and they’d been loudly making a fuss this entire time. They were a sore sight, but the innkeeper’s daughter appeared with a pitcher of beer.
“You’re as ugly as ever!” one of the men taunted.
It only infuriated Lucianus further. He finished his meal and stood up with Dominatus to leave, when a fat man suddenly grabbed his hand.
“You’re a pretty lady,” the man said. “Can’t you pour me a mug? This cheap liquor will taste a lot better if a beauty like you is serving. Come on, do it.”
The man reeked of liquor and Lucianus’s face stiffened with disgust, but he didn’t want to cause a scene. Just as Lucianus reached to pour a mug of liquor, Dominatus grabbed the drunken man’s arm.
“Don’t you dare lay a finger on my wife,” Dominatus growled.
“Ooo scary! My bad, my bad. Don’t look so angry,” the man replied.
The fat drunkard apologized flippantly, but the other guests glared at Dominatus, who glowered back at the other men to keep them in check. One of the men was infuriated by the look that he received. He stood up, boasting an impressive size and a scar on his cheek. The man towered over even Dominatus.
“An outsider like you shouldn’t be acting so cheeky,” the large man said.
“He shouldn’t have laid a finger on another man’s woman,” Dominatus replied. “If you want to fight, let’s take it outside. I bet you’re all bark and no bite. I don’t think a giant like you will pose any sort of threat to me, but I’ll entertain you if you wish.”
Dominatus was clearly provoking the other man, and Lucianus grabbed his partner’s arm. Causing a scene here was unwise. But Dominatus shook himself free of Lucianus’s grip, and marched outside with the large man. Dominatus had left his weapon in his room, but the man also had nothing to defend himself with—they’d be fighting using their bare fists.
The man’s friends and the other guests all stood outside, hoping for a show. They crowded around the two men as they started to holler and goad them into fighting. Lucianus stood by the door and watched over Dominatus.
The large man was smiling at Dominatus, confident in his strength. The gladiator, on the other hand, stared back expressionless.
“He’s so scared that he’s pissing his pants, I bet!” one of the man’s friends shouted.
The crowd erupted into laughter, but this guffawing stopped in an instant. Dominatus had swiftly punched the man in the face. His fist landed squarely in the center, and the man was blown back before he sank to the stone tile. Blood spewed from his nose as the man lay there, completely unconscious.
Everyone froze in shock as Dominatus rubbed his fist and returned to Lucianus’s side.
“Let’s go,” Dominatus said. He placed an arm around Lucianus’s shoulder, went back inside, and the two men retired to their room.
“What’s gotten into you? You picked a fight with that man,” Lucianus said. “We should avoid standing out.”
“A man touched you and asked you to pour him liquor,” Dominatus replied.
“I don’t mind doing that. It’s far better than creating a fuss.”
“It’s not at all. I can’t allow you to feel so wretched.”
Lucianus didn’t feel that way one bit. In fact, he felt more wretched when Dominatus was so cold to him. The gladiator usually wasn’t one to get angered so easily. Why was he unable to suppress his rage tonight? Was that his way of relieving stress that he feels toward me on a daily basis? If Dominatus had fought to release some of his pent-up frustration, his puzzling actions made sense.
Dominatus went to bed early, still looking a bit upset, and Lucianus decided to do the same, as he was still recovering from his fever. The wind began to blow strongly, and the windows rattled. The noise was unbearable, and Lucianus couldn’t sleep despite his exhaustion. It was a cold night, and he felt chilly even though he was curled up in blankets. His toes were so cold that he wished to be huddled up with Dominatus’s warmth.
The two hadn’t been intimate since they started this trip. Lucianus could think of several reasons for Dominatus’s reluctance. The walls of cheap inns were thin, Lucianus had been tired, and they were on the run, so they couldn’t get in the mood. But another reason could’ve been because Dominatus’s love for Lucianus had waned. No. That can’t be it. His deep love for me wouldn’t disappear so easily. Lucianus desperately tried to rid his mind of such thoughts as he tossed and turned in bed during his sleepless night. It was then that he heard the voice of his beloved.
“Havilah… Havilah…” Dominatus muttered in his sleep.
He sounded pained as he cried out for his past lover. He must be dreaming about her. Maybe he’s sleeping with her in his dreams. The moment the thought flashed across Lucianus’s mind, it was as though a dam had burst. His body trembled and tears streamed down his face as his mind was filled with awful visions. What use was there to wake Dominatus up and question him? Dreams couldn’t be controlled. Even if Dominatus had feelings for Havilah, Lucianus couldn’t restrict another’s thoughts.
Overwhelmed with sorrow and grief, Lucianus felt like his chest had been gouged out. He loved Dominatus deeply, but his feelings were so suffocating and painful that he didn’t know what to do. He clapped his hands over his mouth to stifle his sobs and continued to quietly weep in bed.
***
The next morning, Lucianus looked in the mirror and was devastated to see Dominatus staring back at him. He’d cried so much that his eyes were swollen, and he was an awful sight to behold. He already had an excuse prepared should Dominatus ask about his appearance: he had slept facedown which caused his face to swell. But the question never came. He was relieved, but pitied himself for getting used to the loneliness that came with Dominatus’s lack of interest in him.
The morning sky was cloudy, but when they finished breakfast, snow was already starting to fall. It wasn’t too bad at the foot of the mountain, but it could’ve been a blizzard at the peak. The owner of the inn recommended that the pair stay another day, and the two had no choice but to stay put.
Dominatus hardly said a word since he awoke. Lucianus had wondered if he was still angry, but the irritation and look of displeasure that he’d shown until now were gone. It was replaced with a gaze that stared into the distance as he looked at Lucianus. Dominatus stared at Lucianus several times, but he wasn’t all there—it was more like he was watching the scenery.
Lucianus had never seen this look before. It was calm and kind, but at the same time, the fiery twinkle of light had vanished. Lucianus could hardly recognize his beloved.
A man with a shaven head approached them as they ate their breakfast. “Your punch yesterday was magnificent,” he said. “You’re used to fighting, aren’t you? Are you a mercenary?”
“Nah. But you’re a mercenary, aren’t you?” Dominatus replied.
The man grinned. “The name’s Nerrus.”
“I’m Reseus, and this is my wife, Luciana. She was born unable to speak.”
“Sorry to hear that. But it’s not often you’ll find a beauty like her. You’re a lucky man. I heard you’re trying to cross through Mount Toquila. I passed by there yesterday. I’m headed for Dyna.”
Interested in Nerrus’s journey across the mountain, Dominatus encouraged the man to take a seat.
“What’re you going to Dyna for?” Dominatus asked.
Nerrus sat down and explained that he was headed there for work. “My older brother and his wife are living in Dyna. I’ve only been there a few times, but it’s an amazing city. It’s filled with life—like they’re hosting a festival every day. Feels like I’m at the center of the world when I’m there.”
“We actually came from Dyna. Luciana’s a citizen from there.”
“Really? Huh, no wonder! She looks like a real beauty that you’d see in the city! She’s no countryside bumpkin.”
Nerrus was a cheerful guy. He’d lived through more than a few battles and his body was covered in old scars, telling the tale of his suffering. He wasn’t the most muscular of men, but he was surely a competent warrior.
“Speaking of, a local told me about a stone cabin that contains a natural hot spring,” Nerrus said. “It’s over the mountain pass. I stopped by the place, and it was so refreshing! You two should stop there too. It’s a bit off the trail, so people won’t normally visit it. You two can enjoy a soak without anyone bothering you.”
“That sounds great,” Dominatus replied. “And when are you leaving for Dyna?”
“Tomorrow morning.”
Why is he not asking for details about the mountain trail? Dominatus refused to touch the subject and laughed at Nerrus’s silly stories while providing stories of Dyna, much to Nerrus’s delight. Lucianus couldn’t talk and he only felt his stress and aggravation growing, exhausting his tired body. He left, communicating that he wanted to sleep for a short while.
When Lucianus entered their room, he was reminded of the incident from last night. All alone with his thoughts, he felt his chest grow tight. He hadn’t been able to sleep a wink since he heard Dominatus talking in his sleep—morning had arrived without allowing him rest. It was a long and sorrowful night for Lucianus. As he dozed off in bed, he heard Dominatus return and sit on the bed beside him, gazing down at the noble.
“Do you like staring at other people sleeping?” Lucianus asked, irritation in his tone hiding his embarrassment.
Dominatus smiled faintly. “Why don’t we head out for a little while? I’d like to walk with you. Will you come along?”
His eyes softened and were filled with kindness. Lucianus was happy to receive such an amiable gaze and nodded, immediately making the preparations.
“The snow’s let up, but the breeze is still cold,” Dominatus said. “You should wear this.”
He wrapped Anela’s fur coat around Lucianus’s shoulders, and the two left the inn, walking along the town’s streets. It was a desolate place, but simply walking with Dominatus while clinging to his arm made any town seem like a splendid one. As they reached the eastern end of the town, Lucianus realized it’d been a while since he had felt such happiness. The road that pierced through the center continued for miles, deep into the dense forest in the distance.
“If you walk along this road and head east for a few days, you’ll find my hometown,” Dominatus said. “It’s where I was born and raised, and where my father once ruled.”
Lucianus gazed into the direction that Dominatus was pointing at and nodded. “I see.”
“The nation fell to ruin long ago, but I’d like to return to my hometown. In fact, I have decided to do so.”
Lucianus looked up at his beloved, bewildered. “Dominatus?”
“I won’t be going to D’Aleppo.”
Lucianus was stunned. He hadn’t expected to hear those words and thought this must’ve been some sort of cruel joke. But Dominatus’s gaze was solemn.
“What are you on about?” Lucianus asked. “We promised to head for D’Aleppo together.”
“We did, but I changed my mind. Even if I go to D’Aleppo, I’ll be a wanted man for the rest of my life. Even if your uncle shelters me for a short while, he surely can’t do so until the day I die. If I’m going to be pursued by the emperor, I might as well live the rest of my life and perish in my homeland.”
Lucianus could empathize with Dominatus’s thoughts, but he couldn’t agree with this choice.
“You should go back to Dyna,” Dominatus said. “I’ve already talked it over with Nerrus. He agreed to guard you on your trip back to Dyna. I spoke with him at length, and I believe he’s a kind, good-natured man. Once you return to Dyna, I’d appreciate it if you found him a job.”
Lucianus froze in astonishment. He felt like his head had been pummeled. Dominatus wasn’t saying any of this on a whim—he’d already decided to head back to his hometown and had even arranged for Lucianus’s journey back home. Dominatus hadn’t asked about the mountain during their meal with Nerrus because he had already changed his path away from D’Aleppo. The sudden appearance of the mercenary headed for Dyna must’ve been a happy coincidence for him. And if Nerrus could be entrusted with Lucianus, then Dominatus could head for his hometown without any regrets.
“If you run into the Imperial Guards on your way back, just tell them that you were traveling with me without knowledge that I was a wanted man, but you fled immediately after learning the truth,” Dominatus said. “I doubt anyone is willing to treat a noble of your status too brashly.”
Dominatus doesn’t love me anymore. If he did, he would’ve asked me to come along with him. Lucianus was frustrated to learn that his future and the path that he should take had already been decided for him without his consent. This overbearing attitude was intolerable. Frustration quickly morphed into rage, culminating in hatred toward Dominatus. These extreme emotions consumed Lucianus’s heart like a raging fire, making him momentarily forget the sadness of losing his beloved.
“Very well. If that’s what you wish, I shall do just that,” Lucianus spat. “I’ve been regretting my actions as well. I allowed myself to be swept up in a moment of passion and offered my love to a foolish man like you. It was a moment of weakness. I was blinded by my first experience of love, and I lost myself, it seems. But our love is over.”
These were all lies, every bit of it. Lucianus still loved Dominatus dearly, but the gladiator’s selfish change of heart was an unforgivable act of betrayal. No amount of love could shift Lucianus’s mind. He turned on his heels and headed for the inn, leaving Dominatus behind. The noble had lost the gladiator’s affection, but Lucianus was so angry that he hardly felt any grief or despair. Unable to sit still, he made his own decision. He wouldn’t follow the path that Dominatus had set for him—no, the noble would carve his own trail instead.
Spurred by these dark emotions, he quickly packed up his things and visited the stable. He piled his belongings onto his horse to leave when he was spotted by Nerrus, who was walking out of the inn.
“Luciana, I heard your situation from Reseus,” the mercenary called. “It might be lonely for you to make the trip back to Dyna by yourself, but you have nothing to fear. I’ll be sure to accompany you safely back home. Uh, Luciana? What are you doing? We depart tomorrow morning, don’t we?”
Lucianus shook his head and pointed at Mount Toquila.
“Huh? Are you planning on heading to the mountain? At this hour?”
Lucianus nodded and climbed atop his steed. Nerrus looked visibly shocked as he tried to comprehend the situation.
“Why? I don’t understand! I thought you were returning to Dyna! Where’s Reseus? Where has your husband gone?”
Lucianus kicked the side of his horse, and his steed dashed ahead.
“Luciana! Don’t go! It’s too late for you to head to the mountain! You won’t be able to cross it!”
In no time at all, Nerrus’s voice faded into the distance, and the horse headed north with Lucianus on its back. He soon made it to the outskirts of the village, and the mountain towered right in front of him. A trail covered with a thin layer of snow emerged between the dying trees, and the noble spurred his horse to gallop ahead.
***
The winding road twisted and turned as far as the eye could see. Lucianus slowed his horse to a trot. He wanted to cross the ridge before sunset, but if he exhausted his horse before then, he wouldn’t have a chance. After a short climb, he came upon a fork in the road. There were no signposts, and both ways seemed equally wide—he wasn’t sure which path to take.
“Is something wrong?” said a man behind him. “Are you lost, red-haired beauty?”
Lucianus recognized the chubby man as the one who’d grabbed his arm last night and demanded him to pour a drink. The man approached the noble.
“Do you want to climb over the mountain?” he asked.
Lucianus nodded.
“Then you should take the path to your right. The left is a dead end—there’s only an abandoned charcoal hut.”
Lucianus bowed in gratitude and tried to lead his horse ahead when the man stopped him once more.
“One of the strings tying your belongings looks loose. You should fix it.”
When the noble turned back, he indeed found one of the strings almost undone. He’d left in a rush and must’ve been sloppy with his knots. He hopped off his horse and retied the string.
“Now you’re good,” the man said with a smile.
Maybe he’s actually a nice guy. But when Lucianus tried to mount his horse once more, the man grabbed the horse’s reins.
“It’s worrisome for a lady to be crossing the mountain alone,” the man said. “There’s a blizzard up there. Come on, you should head back.”
Lucianus was confused. Was this stranger being kind, or did he have some sort of ulterior motive? In any case, he had already resolved to cross the mountain and tried to grab his reins back from the main. After a short scuffle, the man tackled Lucianus, pushing him away.
“It’s your fault for not listening to my warning,” the man said. “It’s dangerous for you to keep climbing. Won’t the rest of you help me prevent her from going off on her own?”
Only then did Lucianus notice four men behind him—the ones who had caused a fuss while drunk last night. A lecherous smile stretched across their lips. They were likely after money and women, but they would have no hopes of gaining the latter if they attacked Lucianus.
“I’m a man,” the noble declared, knowing that his identity would be discovered sooner or later. “I’m dressing as a woman because I have to. I’ll give you a decent sum of money, so I ask that you don’t interfere with my journey.”
The men looked back in astonishment as they mumbled to each other.
“A man?”
“I don’t believe it. She must be lying.”
“But her voice is that of a man’s.”
“Don’t fret,” a man rumbled. His friends silenced as he emerged. This burly man with a scar on his cheek had been punched by Dominatus the night before. “I don’t care if he’s a man. He’s got a pretty face. Men and women are no different—they’ve both got a hole we can fuck. In fact, I think we can have more fun with him than some ugly woman on the streets.”
“He’s right,” the other men agreed, grinning once more.
“I don’t care if you’re a lady or a man. I don’t need your money. All I want is to take you by force.” The burly man turned back to his comrades. “Take him to the hut. Old Man Torres hurt his hip and is stuck in bed. I don’t think anyone else is there.”
The men quickly surrounded Lucianus and attacked the noble from behind before he could even unsheathe his blade. In the blink of an eye, Lucianus’s short sword was taken and he was carried to the hut. He screamed and struggled the entire time, but his efforts were in vain. He was carried into a hut a short distance from the fork in the road where a charcoal burner lived. It was a dirty and shabby place.
The men removed Lucianus’s cloak and fur coat, tied his arms behind his back, and rolled him onto the floor. The noble sat up and glared at the men.
“Don’t touch me,” Lucianus snapped. “I’d rather die than sleep with any of you.”
“What the hell are you saying? I don’t think you understand your situation,” the burly man replied. “Your husband—no, I suppose he isn’t. Well, in any case, he isn’t here, and no one’s around to protect you.” A cruel smile was plastered on his face; perhaps he was taking his rage against Dominatus out on Lucianus.
“All right, money first,” the man said.
He grabbed a small pouch around Lucianus’s waist. The noble had left half of his money for Dominatus, but there was still a decent amount inside. The men tipped the pouch over and scattered gold and silver coins all across a table.
“Holy!” one man shouted happily. “Look at all these gold coins, Boss!”
“I’d like to celebrate with a pint,” another said.
“Let’s buy some liquor later.”
Leaving behind his excited comrades, the burly man with a scar crouched in front of Lucianus and grabbed his hair. The wig came off, revealing his golden locks.
“You’ve got beautiful, blond hair,” the man said. “What a waste to hide it.”
He roughly tugged on the noble’s hair, placed a hand on his cheek, and forced him to look up.
“Oh, I’ll have some good fun with you,” the man said. “I’m far better than the man you were with.”
In response, Lucianus spat on the man’s face.
“You brat!” the man roared. He struck Lucianus across the cheek, sending him to the ground. The taste of blood started to fill his mouth.
“Once we’ve all enjoyed ourselves, I’ll sell you to a slave merchant,” the man growled. “You’d best be prepared.”
Lucianus was scooped up and he laid face down on the table. The hems of his clothes were rolled up to reveal his lower half, and the men tried to undo his waistcloth. Lucianus did his best to push away the men with his restrained arms.
“Stop it!” Lucianus yelled. “Don’t touch me!”
He didn’t want to be assaulted by these men. He’d strongly believed that only Dominatus could ever penetrate him, but Lucianus’s struggles were in vain. His waistcloth easily slipped off.
“You’ve got a smooth ass for a man,” the burly ruffian said. “It’s pale and round and soft. I can’t believe it! I’ll have more fun than I thought.”
He reached out and grabbed Lucianus’s buttock, his nails digging into the skin. Lucianus’s face twisted with pain. Behind him, he heard the man undo his own waistcloth. No! I absolutely don’t want this! I’d rather bite my tongue and kill myself than have these men play with my body as they please! For a split second, Lucianus considered doing just that, but he’d never get to see Dominatus again. The gladiator was so dear and precious to him.
Even if Dominatus’s love for Lucianus had waned and the gladiator betrayed him as he pleased, Lucianus’s love still lingered. I love only Dominatus. That fact won’t change, no matter what. Being defiled by these men makes me so furious that I’d much rather die, but I must survive. I want to live and see Dominatus again. I just want to see him once more.
One of the men spat on his hand and rubbed it onto his dick. Lucianus felt something dirty pressed against his anus. To survive, he had no choice but to accept this cruel and absurd fate. He squeezed his eyes shut and feared the worst.
“I thought I told you last night. Don’t you dare lay a finger on my wife,” a low voice rumbled, reaching Lucianus’s ears and encouraging him to open his eyes. That sounds like…
“When did you…” the burly man trailed off. He’d been a breath away from penetrating Lucianus, but he backed away hastily, and the other men also prepared to defend themselves.
Dominatus was standing by the door, the longsword he’d been gifted by Anela gripped firmly in his hand.
“I would’ve let you off if you just took the money, but you just tried to sully the most important thing in my life,” Dominatus said. “For that, you’ll pay a high price. Atone for your sins with your death.”
The pure wrath that he emanated from his body was completely different from the aura that surrounded him in a gladiator battle. The intense air that enveloped him was overwhelming.
“Y-you dare sound so high and mighty!” a man shouted.
The one closest to Dominatus raised his blade in the air and pounced, but Dominatus was too quick. In an instant, he pierced the ruffian’s chest with his blade. The man couldn’t process what had just occurred and gazed down at the sword emerging from his chest. When Dominatus drew his weapon back, the ruffian fell to the ground with a deafening thud.
“You bastard!” another man shouted.
He couldn’t keep up with Dominatus’s agility, and the next ruffian to approach had his head lopped off. A fountain of blood spewed from his gaping neck, dying the hut crimson. The other men fell to the ground, their mouths gaping open like stupid fish. These men didn’t stand a chance against Dominatus, who had braved a thousand battles against skilled gladiators. These drunk countryside men were treated like mere children before Dominatus’s sword.
Two more men gave it their all, but they were both cut down by the gladiator’s blade in an instant.
“What will you do?” Dominatus asked. “You’re the only one left. If you’d like to fight, let’s take it outside. It’s too cramped here.”
Dominatus and the boss of the ruffians marched outside. Lucianus stood by the doorway, his hands still tied. Snow was beginning to fall. The two fighters glared at each other as they inched closer.
“Rah!” the ruffian boss shouted. He swung his blade with all his might, and Dominatus received the blow with his own sword. The sharp clang of metal rang through the air. The man continued with his barrage, and Dominatus was constantly on the defensive. The ruffian was more skilled with the sword than expected, and he was nimble as well. He wasn’t just burly.
“You’re not bad,” Dominatus said. “Where did you learn how to wield a sword?”
“At a gladiator school,” the man answered.
“Ah, so you were a gladiator.”
“That’s right. So, I won’t lose to you.”
Dominatus dodged his opponent’s blade and smiled. “Oh, but you will. You’re a former gladiator, aren’t you?”
He crouched low to the ground and swiftly swung his blade to the side, slicing his foe’s thigh. Fresh blood spurted in the air and the man leaned forward with a pained grunt. Dominatus wasn’t about to let this opportunity slide. He used that moment to plunge his sword into the man’s stomach. The ruffian’s eyes went as wide as they possibly could.
“You see, I’m also a gladiator,” Dominatus said. “A current one.”
He drew his blade back, and the man convulsed as he kneeled onto the ground. There was nothing reflected in his eyes anymore. When Dominatus pushed the back of his head, the man leaned forward and fell lifelessly to the ground. Lucianus leaned on the doorway with a sigh of relief as he felt his strength leave his body. Dominatus wiped the blood from his blade with his opponent’s clothes, and sheathed his blade before he approached Lucianus’s side. The gladiator undid the ropes tying the noble’s arms, and cupped Lucianus’s face with both of his hands.
“Did they slap you across the face? It looks red. Are you injured anywhere else?” Dominatus asked.
“No,” Lucianus replied. “Thank to your arrival, I wasn’t raped either. Thank you, Dominatus.”
Dominatus pulled him in for a tight embrace; Lucianus’s lips trembled as he received a hug from his beloved. Thank goodness. I survived and I got to see Dominatus again. Even if I’m no longer loved by him, I was embraced by him, and he protected me. That’s more than enough.
“I’m guessing you heard the news from Nerrus and chased after me,” Lucianus said. “I’m sorry for making you worry.”
“You tried to head to D’Aleppo by yourself and cross the mountain,” Dominatus replied. “You’re too reckless.” He didn’t sound at all angry, making Lucianus feel even more apologetic.
“I’m sorry. I was just so frustrated and sad that you cast me aside that I wasn’t thinking straight. I’m fine now. I’ll return to the inn and head for Dyna with Nerrus tomorrow.”
“Lucianus…”
“Eek!” A scream echoed from behind the couple, and an elderly man with white hair sank to the ground, gazing with terror at the men that Dominatus killed. The old man finally spotted Dominatus, sullied by the blood of his victims. “M-murderer!”
Pale faced, the old man practically flew down the road and ran back from whence he came. Is he the owner of this hut?
“Dominatus, you should chase after him and explain yourself,” Lucianus urged.
“It doesn’t matter what I say. It’d still cause a fuss,” Dominatus replied.
The gladiator went back inside the hut, gathered the coins that the men had stolen, and tossed them back into Lucianus’s pouch.
“What will you do now?” Lucianus asked.
“I certainly can’t go back to the inn,” Dominatus replied. “And that old man might call for someone, so I can’t stay here either. I guess we’ve gotta climb the mountain.”
“But it’s starting to snow. It won’t let up for a while.”
“Perfect.” He wrapped a cloak and fur coat around Lucianus’s shoulders. “Thanks to the snow, no one will chase after us if we climb the mountain. Let’s go.”
Lucianus was unable to refuse and could only chase after his beloved. The men each mounted their own horse and made their way up the snowy mountain path.
Chapter 5
Chapter 5
“OVER THERE, LUCIANUS. THAT MUST BE IT,” Dominatus said.
Lucianus raised his head and saw steam rising beyond the falling snow.
“Thank goodness…” Lucianus said. “There really is a bath.”
The two strayed off the path to the peak and walked down a long, unpaved road until they finally arrived at a stone cabin that Nerrus had mentioned. It was so out of the way that it wasn’t likely for many visitors to drop by.
“I’m glad I asked for details about the place from Nerrus,” Dominatus said. “And it’s a fine cabin. Our horses can rest inside.”
The cabin was in a cave that looked like it had been gouged out of the side of the mountain. It was roomier than it looked and could shield visitors from the snow and cold deeper inside. It was the perfect place to spend the night. There was a spot hollowed out enough for a few people and was filled with plenty of warm water from the spring. Located by the entrance of the cabin, a healthy stream of water gushed out from the side.
While Dominatus was giving the horses a drink of water, Lucianus was gathering some sticks for a fire. Dominatus joined in midway and cut down some dead trees for kindling. These apparently burned better than the damp branches on the ground.
Before the sun had started to set, the two removed their clothes and took a dip in the bath. The water was almost painfully hot on their cold bodies, but they soon acclimated to the warmth. The hot spring was slightly milky and the tiniest bit viscous, warming Lucianus from the inside out.
“I haven’t taken a bath since I left Filena,” Lucianus said. “I really took it for granted and didn’t think about how much of a luxury it is. I’m still an arrogant man. It’s no wonder that your love for me waned.”
“You’re the one who got tired of me,” Dominatus replied. “You said that you don’t love me anymore.”
“I said no such thing!” Lucianus cried. In shock, he stood up in the water. “I’ve never said anything like that.”
“You apologized to me. You said that you’d misunderstood.”
At first, Lucianus had no idea what the gladiator was talking about, but soon remembered their conversation in Obeiro. The moment the realization hit him, he felt himself grow weak. He didn’t expect Dominatus to find the apology as an implication that Lucianus’s heart had changed.
“My misunderstanding didn’t refer to my feelings for you,” he explained. “I was talking about myself. I’d thought that I was a tougher person, but I became painfully aware of my weakness and powerlessness during this trip. I was filled with self-loathing. I became annoyed by the most minute of issues and became more selfish and stubborn. I wanted to apologize for making everything so unpleasant for you.”
Dominatus looked visibly confused. “But you said it today as well. When I mentioned that I wanted to return to my hometown, you spoke of how you regretted offering your love to a foolish man like me.”
“I was lying. I was frustrated to learn that you decided my future all on your own, and I spouted nonsense. Had I not done so, I wouldn’t have been able to bear how miserable I felt. It was difficult enough to know that I’d lost your affection, but you’d even told me to head back home to Dyna.”
“Then is this truly all just a misunderstanding on my part?”
“It truly is. And a horrible one, at that.”
Dominatus shook his head as though to mock himself and smiled bitterly. “I really am a foolish man. You’d been looking glum this entire trip. I thought you regretted coming along with me, and that your feelings for me had waned. I was anxious, I suppose. So, when you apologized to me, I thought that you were simply voicing what I’d expected.”
Lucianus approached his beloved and placed a hand on his cheek. “Can you tell me your thoughts as well? I’d assumed that your love for me had waned too. Am I wrong?”
“Of course you are,” Dominatus replied. He kissed Lucianus forehead and continued, “My love for you hasn’t changed one bit. I assumed it was difficult for you to continue traveling with a person you no longer loved, so I decided to head back to my hometown. No, it must’ve been tough for me to travel with you when I assumed your thoughts.”
The two had completely misunderstood each other’s feelings, but neither was able to laugh about how foolish they’d been. They were terrified of losing each other’s affection and had grown timid, unable to communicate their true feelings.
“Last night, you were sobbing in bed, just before dawn,” Dominatus said. “You were stifling your sobs, and your body was trembling. Seeing you weep like that made me assume that you loathed being with me to such an extreme degree and regretted your actions. I didn’t want you to continue on such a heartbreaking journey.”
“That was…” Lucianus paused before he continued, “That was something different. You were muttering in your sleep, which caused me great sorrow. You were calling out Havilah’s name.”
Surprise filled Dominatus’s face. “How do you know about Havilah?”
“The night you were drinking with Karlthus, I got worried by your late return and went downstairs to check up on you. I heard you two talking. I didn’t mean to eavesdrop, but I… I’m sorry.”
“Then you were worried about Havilah ever since that night? Why didn’t you tell me?” Dominatus’s eyes were filled with pity as though he was looking at a woeful child.
“I wanted to learn more about the woman you loved from the bottom of your heart, but I couldn’t ask you. I was scared to do so. When I heard you muttering her name in your sleep last night, I’d assumed you no longer loved me and still loved Havilah. No words could describe the despair that I felt.”
“Lucianus…” Burly arms wrapped around Lucianus’s back, drawing the man close to his chest. “I’m sorry. I was the cause of your misery. Forgive me.”
“There’s no need for you to apologize. You cannot control your dreams.”
Dominatus gave a deep sigh by Lucianus’s ear. “Indeed, I dreamed about Havilah last night, but it wasn’t about anything happy. I dreamt that she was killed in front of me. That was what happened to her.”
“She was killed in front of you?”
Lucianus looked up and saw a pained expression on Dominatus’s face. “Havilah was our cook when I was still in gladiator school. I was still young and immature back then, and Havilah was kind to me. We soon became lovers as I was polishing my skills to become a popular gladiator. We promised to save up our money to buy our freedom and live together one day. But the older gladiators didn’t take my promotions kindly. They colluded and attacked me, and Havilah sacrificed her life to spare mine. She was brutally murdered, and ever since, I’ve been filled with regret for being unable to protect the woman that I loved. That feeling still resides deep within my heart. Last night, I dreamed about Havilah dying again for the first time in a good while. I was probably afraid of losing you and felt anxious. I’d thought that I was going to lose another beloved person because of my incompetence.”
The setting sun illuminated Dominatus’s face, his sorrowful, amber eyes glowing golden. His eyes resembled a wolf’s, and to Lucianus he looked like a battered, lone beast. The gladiator’s nation had been destroyed, his family had been stolen away by his enemies, and the woman he loved had been killed right in front of his eyes. He wandered around as a slave, worked his way up to a gladiator, fought in countless battles, and by some weird twist of fate, was now in front of Lucianus.
“I didn’t want to lose you, but when I saw you weeping, I thought it was best to set you free,” Dominatus said. “Precisely because I love you, I didn’t want to tie you to my side.”
He had chosen to part ways out of love. Dominatus’s feelings for Lucianus had driven him to decide on a path that would cause his own suffering.
“You fool!” Lucianus said. He pounded Dominatus’s chest with his hands. “We were about to split up even though we love each other so much! I may never have been able to see you again. You absolute dunce!”
“I’m sorry. Forgive me,” Dominatus apologized. “It’s all my fault. I know that you’ve had worries of your own bottled up within you during our trip. Tell me whatever is on your mind. I’ll listen to all your complaints.”
He hugged Lucianus tightly, and tears welled up in the noble’s eyes as he started to speak. “I’ve got a mountain of things I’d like to say. In the first inn that we stayed at, you said that you’d massage my buttocks, but I saw you happily talking with some young ladies.”
All of this was in the past, and Lucianus knew that there was no use bringing it up now. But as Dominatus spoiled him, a torrent of words tumbled out of his mouth.
“I wanted to ask them about the city. That’s all. I’m sorry,” Dominatus said.
“You woke up by yourself that morning and ate breakfast all alone. I wanted to eat with you,” Lucianus said.
“I wanted you to sleep in. I should’ve had breakfast with you when you awoke. I wasn’t considerate enough, and I’m sorry.” The gladiator’s gaze softened as he apologized to Lucianus’s silly complaints.
“I was freezing to death under the icy rain, but not once did you ask about my well-being.”
“My mind was filled with the Imperial Guards catching up to us, and I prioritized moving ahead. That’s all my fault. I’m truly sorry about that. Anything else?”
“You always seem to prioritize the horses instead of me.”
“You’re more important, of course. There’s no denying that. But if we don’t treat our horses well, it’ll slow down our travels immensely. I made you so lonely that you started comparing yourself to the horses, I see. I’m sorry.”
Lucianus knew that he was just taking his frustration out on the gladiator, but Dominatus continued to apologize solemnly. Lucianus began to hate himself for complaining so much, heightening his emotions.
“I-I’ve still got more!” he stammered.
“Go on, tell me everything,” Dominatus replied. “I want you to tell me every thought that’s on your mind.”
“It’s been painful for me. I thought that I was a person who was tougher and more reasonable. B-but I was wrong. I was willing to throw my life away for you, but only seconds later, I-I found myself angry as I saw you enjoying your time talking with those ladies. I even grew jealous of your former lover. I’m a foolish and small-minded person, and it makes me feel embarrassed and pathetic. The more I learn about myself, the more painful it is. I-I believed that I wasn’t such an unpleasant person, and yet…”
Lucianus wept like a child as he spoke, and Dominatus gently stroked his head.
“You’re not unpleasant at all,” Dominatus said. “You’re not to blame. Love can change a person, and the same goes for me. I climbed to the top as a gladiator, and nothing scared me. Even the emperor didn’t strike fear in my heart, but as I loved you, and you reciprocated my feelings, I’ve grown weaker. Pathetically so. I don’t want to see you suffer because of me, and I don’t want you to have any regrets. As I became weaker, the belief that this whole trip was a mistake plagued my mind and loomed over me like a dark shadow. Ultimately, I started to believe that you’d be happier if you left my side. Yet, I was angered as I assumed that you no longer loved me, and I fought with that man at the inn for no reason. It seems I love you far deeper and more than I’d thought.”
Dominatus peeled himself away from his beloved and peered into Lucianus’s eyes.
“Lucianus, are you happy with a man like me? Do you still truly love me?”
“That goes without saying,” Lucianus replied. “I love you. And that love always makes my chest feel so tight.” He placed a hand over his heart, and Dominatus finally cracked a smile.
“This is where your love for me is, I take it?” Dominatus whispered. He placed his hand over Lucianus’s, over his chest.
“That’s right. It’s filled and overflowing with my affection for you.”
“Then I’ve got a request. Will you envelop me with your love tonight?”
Dominatus gripped Lucianus’s hand and planted a kiss on his palm.
***
“Ah… Mm… Dominatus, no…” Lucianus gasped.
He twisted his body and tried to flee, but his waist and thighs were firmly locked into place by Dominatus’s arms. The two were lying naked and expressing their passionate love on top of the fur coat that they had placed on the ground. A small fire crackled nearby, its red flames flickering.
“Why do you resist?” Dominatus asked. “I’m sure that you feel good. Your cock is leaking as though it’s crying.”
The gladiator kissed the tip of Lucianus’s phallus, licking away the drop of precum that dripped from the slit. Dominatus used his tongue to tease the small opening at the tip, prying it open.
“No, stop…” Lucianus said.
After a bit more teasing, Dominatus once again swallowed Lucianus’s cock. He refused to release Lucianus from his passionate mouth, making his slender limbs tremble so lasciviously that it was almost embarrassing. Dominatus’s hot tongue and lips continued to pleasure Lucianus. His mind melted away to the pleasure, his hips moving on their own in an attempt to go deeper and deeper into Dominatus’s mouth. Embarrassed, Lucianus spoke in opposition to his feelings.
Needless to say, Dominatus was well aware that his partner’s cries of “no” actually meant “yes.” He showed no signs of stopping, and Lucianus knew that the true meaning of his words was understood. And so, he continued to act spoiled and cry out requests to stop. Even he was aware just how much of a pain he was being, but it seemed like Dominatus was enjoying watching him writhe.
The snow had stopped, but the icy wind blew outside, coating the air with a thin sheet of white. Yet, Lucianus’s body was damp with sweat. Was it due to the hot spring or his intense arousal? The noble himself couldn’t answer the question. Dominatus continued to pamper his beloved and shower him with love, enveloping Lucianus in sheer bliss. He felt all of his pained, ugly feelings until now become purified by their love.
“Dominatus, no,” Lucianus panted. “Any more and I’ll…”
“Are you close?” Dominatus asked. “I don’t mind. Come in my mouth.”
Dominatus’s lips moved aggressively, forcing Lucianus’s sweet orgasm. The stimulation caused Lucianus to reflexively grip Dominatus’s hair, but the gladiator paid no heed and continued to move his mouth. Lucianus had been teased for so long, and his arousal made him ejaculate within Dominatus’s lips.
“Ah!” Lucianus gasped. He gripped Dominatus’s hair as his mind went blank for a moment, his body trembling with ecstasy. Lucianus forgot who he was for a moment, his brain still focused on the pleasure.
Dominatus spat the milky fluid into his hand and rubbed it on his own manhood. For some inexplicable reason, Lucianus found himself unable to gaze at Dominatus’s erection slathered in his own ejaculate, and instead looked away in embarrassment.
“Do you not like this method?” Dominatus asked.
In truth, Lucianus was simply so embarrassed, he couldn’t even bring himself to utter his thoughts.
“Bear with me,” Dominatus added. “It’s better than nothing and I don’t want you to feel any pain.”
“I-I know,” Lucianus replied.
Dominatus grabbed Lucianus’s legs and spread them wide, using his fingers first to loosen Lucianus’s opening.
“No need,” Lucianus said. “I want you in me right now. Please.”
“But…”
“You’ve got nothing to worry about. I want to be connected to you as soon as possible. I need to feel you inside of me.”
Dominatus listened to Lucianus’s request and slowly entered him. Lucianus had expected as much, but his body turned stiff as he felt his insides being pushed down.
“Ah… Mm…” Lucianus gasped.
“Does it hurt?”
“N-no. I’m just not used to it because it’s been a while. Don’t mind me and come deep inside of me.”
Lucianus drew Dominatus’s hips close, and the gladiator brushed Lucianus’s hair from his forehead.
“I like being ordered around by you in bed,” Dominatus whispered.
“Don’t lie to me,” Lucianus replied. “Men prefer to listen to their partners beg than to be ordered around.”
“But your orders are special. I can truly hear how much you yearn for me. I’ll thrust deeper inside you.”
Dominatus moved his hips, his manhood nestled deep within Lucianus, up to the hilt, connecting the two men even deeper than ever.
“You feel amazing and so comforting that it’s almost unbearable,” Dominatus said with a deep sigh. He gazed at Lucianus with sorrow. “It’s been a while, so I don’t think I can hold myself back. I should’ve had you use your hands on me first.”
“There’s no need for you to hold back,” Lucianus replied. “Thrust into me as much as you like. That makes me the happiest.”
Dominatus leaned down and kissed him, their tongues entangling. Lucianus was overcome with fear, feeling like prey being devoured whole by a wolf, but the kisses were so sweet and blissful.
“You’re an adorable man,” Dominatus said. “Every time I see how stout-hearted you are, my chest grows fiery with passion.” He started to move, his muscular hips moving back and forth. With every powerful thrust, Lucianus was filled with the joy of being held in those burly arms once more, his pain transforming into arousal. He spread his legs as far as they would go, arching his back with each thrust and emitting a moan every time Dominatus pulled back. And still, Lucianus wasn’t satisfied.
“More,” Lucianus gasped. He couldn’t help himself.
He wanted Dominatus deeper and deeper within. He wished to be fucked more roughly, and to experience something more passionate. He yearned for harder thrusts. He wanted more and more of Dominatus, wishing to feel the gladiator as much as he could.
Like a beast in heat, Lucianus’s starving body was begging for more from his partner. And Dominatus was no different. He continued to pry open Lucianus’s hole and slip deeper inside. Dominatus moved his hips aggressively, letting his greed and desires take over his body as he made love to his beloved.
Lucianus continued to gasp and moan, when Dominatus inserted a finger in his mouth. He sucked on the rugged finger like a toddler, and unable to close his lips, a sliver of saliva trickled down his cheek.
“Lucianus, you’re mine,” Dominatus said between grunts. “You’re mine and mine alone, aren’t you? Please tell me that you are.”
“I am,” Lucianus replied. “Both my body and my heart belong to you, and only you.”
Dominatus’s hips moved even faster, pushing Lucianus back with each thrust. Lucianus refused to be separated from his beloved, and wrapped his legs around Dominatus’s waist, crossing his ankles together.
“Dominatus, I want more of you,” Lucianus gasped. “So much more.”
“Lucianus, I’m at my limit,” Dominatus replied. “I can’t go on for much longer.”
The strongest gladiator in Dyna was begging for mercy, sounding so impossibly endearing to Lucianus, filling his heart.
“Then come inside me,” he said. “I want you to expel your seed in my body. Only you are allowed this privilege, Dominatus, my beloved.”
It seemed that Dominatus had been waiting to hear those words. His thrusts became even more aggressive before he let out a low growl like a beast. The moment Lucianus felt warm fluid gush inside of him and saw his man overcome with pleasure, his insides convulsed around Dominatus’s member.
“Ah… Mm…” Lucianus gasped, nothing new coming from his cock, but his ass was overcome with pleasure, his whole body twitching around Dominatus’s manhood.
“I can feel you trembling inside,” Dominatus said. “Did you come just from your ass?”
Lucianus was still shuddering with orgasmic pleasure and unable to answer the question. Dominatus was still hard and erect even after expelling his seed, and gently ground his hips to rub against the noble’s insides.
“Don’t move,” Lucianus gasped. “Ah, this feeling won’t stop… What do I do?”
“There’s no need to make it stop,” Dominatus replied. “Climax as many times as you need. Raifa had once told me that with proper stimulation, you can feel aroused for a good while from your ass.”
All the while, Dominatus moved slowly and gently, exactly what Lucianus needed.
“Dominatus… Ah… I can’t take this… I feel like I’m going crazy,” he moaned.
“Savor this moment as much as you like,” Dominatus replied. “Seeing you so sensitive is adorable. And because you’re skillfully sucking onto me, it feels so good for me too. Could I start another round?”
Lucianus nodded furiously, hoping for more. He was sure that he’d cry if Dominatus pulled out now. Filled with a mysterious form of excitement, different from his usual sensations, Lucianus trembled with delight. Dominatus continued to savor Lucianus slowly. The two were connected so intimately, and Lucianus felt like they would soon melt away and become one.
***
“You must be hungry,” Dominatus said. “I don’t have much, but we should eat.”
He took out some dried meat, smoked cheese, and biscuits with beans. There was even some mead in a leather pouch.
“When I heard from Nerrus that you headed for the mountain, I thought it was best to bring some food along, just in case,” Dominatus said.
“You’re always so prepared,” Lucianus said.
They sat in front of the fire and skewered the meat and cheese on branches to broil them before taking a bite. Lucianus had been prepared to travel on an empty stomach, and he was grateful to eat what little food they had.
“I feel bad for what I did to Nerrus,” Lucianus mumbled.
“You don’t have to worry about him,” Dominatus assured. “I gave him some money as a token of our apology, and I told him to set off by himself if we didn’t return. We should head out too once dawn breaks. If the peak isn’t covered with snow, we should reach D’Aleppo by tomorrow night.”
Lucianus should’ve been happy that their long trip was drawing to a close, but a part of him felt a touch lonely. After finishing their meal, they laid on the fur coat and wrapped themselves up in a cloak. Lucianus was lying down on Dominatus’s arm while gazing at the fire, when he noticed his butt being fondled.
“Wh-what?” Lucianus stammered. “I’m done for today.”
“I know,” Dominatus replied. “I just felt like petting your adorable buttocks. It’s like a sheath made specifically for me.”
“A sheath?” Lucianus repeated in confusion. “Whatever does that mean?”
“It’s an important place to store my sword.”
Lucianus wasn’t sure whether to laugh at or feel exhausted by Dominatus referring to his own cock as a sword. He turned around, tempted to scold Dominatus if this was his idea of a joke, but he saw Dominatus gazing blissfully at the fire. Lucianus turned back to the fire.
“If you sheathe your blade elsewhere, I’ll never forgive you,” Lucianus said.
“I’ll never do such a thing. I’ve only got eyes for you,” Dominatus said. He kissed Lucianus’s cheek from behind.
“Are you sure?”
“I am. I’m yours, just as you’re mine.”
“Then swear to me. Swear that you’ll never leave my side or let me go.”
“I swear it,” Dominatus whispered in Lucianus’s ear. “I’ll never leave your side again. I’ll never let you go. I’ll spend the rest of my life protecting you.”
Tears welled up in Lucianus’s eyes at this solemn oath, and he kept his back turned to his beloved. He took Dominatus’s scarred hand and planted a kiss on his knuckles.
Chapter 6
Chapter 6
THE SNOW ON THE PEAK OF MOUNT TOQUILA PROVIDED some difficulty, but the horses worked hard and carried two men to D’Aleppo while it was still bright outside.
Samari, the former capital of D’Aleppo, had become the provincial capital. Because the Balmain army had occupied the region for quite a while, there were many Balmain citizens residing within the region.
The city was teeming with Balmain soldiers who were stationed at Samari, and there was a good chance that the wanted posters had made the rounds in this place. With that in mind, Lucianus and Dominatus used their hoods to cover their faces as they rushed on. Valius was a famous man, and his house could be spotted easily from a distance. A large manor towered in the center of the city, belonging to the governor of the region. A merchant that had showed the two men the way had explained that the house had once belonged to the mayor of Samari. Guards stood by the gates of the tall walls that protected the manor.
“Please allow us to meet the governor,” Dominatus said. He dismounted his horse.
“To speak with the governor, you must first file a request with the governor-general,” the guard replied.
“Tell Valius that his nephew, Lucianus, has come to meet him.”
“You?” The guard narrowed his eyes with suspicion. “I’ve been told that Lord Lucianus is a beautiful man, famed even within Dyna.”
“Do I look like the beautiful man to you?”
“Then don’t try to provide a false name.”
Unable to endure this odd conversation, Lucianus removed his red wig. “I’m Lucianus.”
The guards froze with astonishment and couldn’t utter a word as Lucianus removed a bracelet from his arm—his mother’s keepsake.
“For reasons of my own, I’ve been traveling under the guise of a woman,” he continued. “Show this bracelet to my uncle. He’ll understand that I’m here. What are you standing around for? Make haste!”
The scolded soldiers hastily took the bracelet and retreated into the manor. After a few moments, a splendid man emerged at the entrance with Lucianus’s bracelet in his hand.
“It’s been a while, my dear uncle,” Lucianus said.
“Lucianus? Is it really you?” Valius inquired. He was visibly surprised as he approached his nephew while ordering the gates to open.
“I apologize for surprising you in such unusual attire. I’ve got some issues of my own.”
“I’m still unable to comprehend your situation, but I’m glad to see you come all this way. It’s a relief to see you doing well. Why don’t you come on in? Your servant may rest in a separate room.”
“Uncle Valius, this man isn’t my servant. Please allow him to stay in the same room as us.”
Valius flashed a look of uncertainty at Dominatus, but nodded. “Very well. You both may come with me. Guards, have someone look after their horses.”
“Yes, sir!” a guard shouted.
Their horses under care, Lucianus and Dominatus followed Valius into the manor. The trio entered the governor’s room where a fire was roaring away, and Lucianus felt his nerves ease in the warmth, filled with a sense of relief. But he quickly became vigilant once more—he had no idea how his uncle would react to the news.
“Please tell me about this man first,” Valius requested. “If memory serves, I believe he’s Dominatus the gladiator.”
“Do you know of him?” Lucianus asked.
“I’ve seen a few of his battles in Dyna’s colosseum. His skills were splendid. It’s been four years since, so I can only imagine that his style has become even more polished.”
“I’ve become exponentially stronger,” Dominatus replied.
Lucianus thought it was proper to be humbler during times like these, but Valius chuckled in response.
“I’d love to fight you one day,” the governor said.
Dominatus smiled back. “I’ll happily do so whenever you wish.”
As the two men conversed, Lucianus felt like they were similar somehow.
“Now then, whatever is the matter?” Valius asked. “Why are you here with Dominatus in tow, Lucianus?”
“We’re here to ask for your aid,” Lucianus replied. “Would you please protect Dominatus from the emperor’s tyranny?”
Lucianus proceeded to bring his uncle up to speed on the recent slew of events. The governor listened with a stern scowl.
“Azerius has gone too far,” Valius spat. “I always thought that he wasn’t worthy to become emperor, but his choices have become even more erratic since he got his hands on that blasted oracle. I’d rather have no emperor at all than have one that relies heavily on those foolish prophecies.” His gruff tone criticizing Azerius implied his anger.
“I’m begging you. Would you please protect Dominatus?” Lucianus implored.
“Before that, I must ask you. Why are you so desperate to protect this man? What kind of relationship do you have with Dominatus?”
It was only natural for Valius to have this question, but Lucianus hesitated to divulge the truth. The governor was a man of more traditional values, and it was difficult to ask for his understanding of homosexuality. Should Lucianus relationship with Dominatus be brought to light, they may earn Valius’s ire.
“This is difficult for me to say, but Dominatus and I—” Lucianus started.
“Are lovers. I’m in a relationship with Lucianus,” Dominatus finished.
Valius turned red with rage. “A mere gladiator like you dares to defile my nephew?!”
He placed a hand over his blade, and Lucianus swiftly stood in front of his beloved, his arms outstretched.
“It’s not like that at all! You’re misunderstanding the situation, Uncle Valius!” Lucianus shouted. “I’m attracted to Dominatus and became entangled with him of my own accord. I love him from the bottom of my heart. I’ve been desperate to protect him, and came on the long voyage to this city, betting it all on a sliver of hope that you’d shelter him! Please, I beg you for your benevolence and understanding.”
“Step aside, Lucianus,” Valius ordered.
“But…”
“I said move!”
Lucianus inched away, overpowered by the intense aura of his uncle. Dominatus grabbed Lucianus’s arm and pulled him aside before stepping forward. As Valius unsheathed his sword, Lucianus tried to step forward to protect his beloved, but his arm was tightly locked into place, preventing him from moving.
Valius pointed the tip of his sword at Dominatus’s face, but he stood there unfazed, receiving the governor’s stern gaze.
“Why did you seduce Lucianus? What do you plan on using him for?” Valius growled.
“I’ve done no such thing,” Dominatus replied. “I love Lucianus from the bottom of my heart. I’m aware that a person such as myself is unsuitable for him, but he deeply yearns for me as I do for him. No one will be able to tear apart true love between two people. I doubt that even god can do so.”
Dominatus revealed his thoughts without hiding a single thing. As Valius averted his gaze to his nephew, Lucianus gave a firm nod as though to imply that his feelings were the same. The tension in the air remained for what seemed like hours; it felt so awfully long that when Valius finally lowered his sword, Lucianus’s knees almost buckled, and he grabbed onto Dominatus’s arm out of relief.
“How lamentable for the heir of House Carusso,” Valius said. “But love is like a sickness. You may become passionate for a moment, but it shall soon wane. I suggest you have your fun while you can.”
Lucianus was tempted to retort that their love wasn’t so shallow, but there was no need to anger Valius here with unnecessary words. The noble held his tongue.
“Hmm? That sword of yours looks familiar,” Valius said. He spotted the weapon by Dominatus’s waist. “Isn’t that Garranmura’s sword, a blade held by Anela’s husband?”
“Garranmura’s sword?” Lucianus asked.
“It’s a fabled sword passed down through the generations of House Maragano. It’s said that this is the very blade that killed Kilouisus the Tyrant.”
Kilouisus had ruled the Balmain empire around a century ago. Drowning himself in sumptuous banquets, the insane emperor was infamous for cruelly executing many innocent people. His brutality had known no bounds, and he was eventually assassinated by his inner circle.
“My aunt gave him something so precious?” Lucianus inquired.
“Anela must’ve taken quite a liking to you,” Valius said.
Dominatus shook his head quietly. “I don’t believe so. She prayed for Lucianus’s safety by bestowing me with the best blade she could find. That’s all.”
“Uncle Valius, will you please protect Dominatus?” Lucianus asked.
The most important question still hadn’t been answered yet. Valius frowned as he ordered one of his slaves to serve them glasses of hot wine.
“Why don’t you take a seat?” Valius offered. “Let’s talk while we drink. I’ve got some important news for you as well.”
Lucianus and Dominatus exchanged a glance before they sat down next to each other on the sofa.
“I shall leave D’Aleppo soon and head back to Dyna,” Valius said.
“Have you been relieved of your post as governor?” Lucianus asked.
“No. Azerius plans on tying me to this city until the day I die. He’s deathly afraid of me, you see.”
“Then why do you plan on leaving D’Aleppo?”
Valius took a sip of the wine. “You must keep this an absolute secret,” he prefaced. He continued, divulging his true reasons. “I will return to Dyna with soldiers behind me.”
Lucianus gulped in shock. Those words implied only one thing.
“Are you planning on starting a rebellion?” Lucianus asked.
“Precisely,” Valius replied. “I will chase that tyrannical and incompetent man off of his throne and toss out those rotten senators. This is the only method we have to correct the course of Dyna’s politics.”
“Are you able to command the military?” Dominatus asked. “You’re a governor now. Surely there’s another person in charge of commanding the army.”
“I may have been relieved of my post as general, but many famous commanders in the Balmain army are vehemently hoping for my return. They were the ones hoping to purge those rotten politicians in the first place. I’d silenced them for a while, claiming that the time wasn’t right, but their hopes for a revolution are only increasing by the day. I can’t hold them back anymore. The road headed south is currently blocked by a landslide. I’ve dispatched the army to reopen that road, but it’ll take around seven days until we can pass through. And so, I shall head out in seven days’ time.”
“How many soldiers will you take with you?” Lucianus asked.
“Fifteen thousand.”
“That’s nowhere near enough!” Lucianus immediately replied.
Dyna had the Imperial Guards to protect the emperor, around ten thousand men, all told. Many of them were focusing on maintaining Dyna’s streets and protecting the imperial palace.
“I’ve heard that there are around thirty thousand soldiers here. Surely you can amass a larger army,” Lucianus said.
“The barbarian’s attacks have let up in the winter season, but I cannot leave this city unguarded,” Valius reasoned. “Fifteen thousand is as much as we can afford. But never fear, the other squads stationed in other cities will also jump into action. We should have around fifty thousand men altogether.”
An army of fifty thousand against ten thousand made it seem like Valius had the outright advantage when it came to numbers, but if he wanted to topple Dyna, it would be a different matter entirely.
“Forgive me for saying this, but you cannot possibly expect your entire army to arrive at the same time,” Lucianus opined, desperately trying to dissuade his uncle. “Some of your men may be hugely delayed depending on the condition of the roads. But waiting for the rest on the outskirts of Dyna will surely alert your enemies, and they’ll prepare to attack. The city’s roads are narrow to ensure a small opening for outside forces to charge in. It’s an iron fortress. If you don’t attack from various directions at once, you shall have no chance of taking over the city.”
Valius let out a jovial laugh. “You could’ve been an excellent commander if you joined the military!”
“This is no laughing matter!”
“Don’t you worry. I’ve got several plans with all that in mind. I didn’t wait around here for several years, simply twiddling my thumbs,” Valius replied with full confidence, allowing Lucianus to finally regain his calm. The governor may not have been in the war zone for many years, but he was once a famed general, renowned for his skills. He was going to war with all of that in mind.
“As you can see, I cannot be here to protect you two,” Valius said. “But should Azerius be defeated, Dominatus’s crimes shall disappear as well. I suggest you wait here in this manor for the news from Dyna.”
“Thank you,” Lucianus replied. “I shall await to hear the good news and pray for your victory.”
This was an unusual turn of events, and Lucianus was left feeling confused by it all. He had thankfully been able to receive protection as he wished, but Valius would leave in a few days with an army of rebels. Lucianus wanted his uncle to come out victorious, but it was all so sudden that he couldn’t quite wrap his mind around it. Should this revolt fail, Valius would die, and his family would be slaughtered. The faces of Juliana and Anela flashed across Lucianus’s worried mind.
“You must be tired from the long trip,” Valius said. “Why don’t you two relax in the bath? It’s been a while, so why don’t we drink until morning?”
The familiar, kind face of Lucianus’s uncle was pointed at the two men. Lucianus gave a deep bow, and Dominatus followed suit beside him.
***
Valius had been stern toward Dominatus at first, but as the two started drinking, the governor loosened up in no time. Even as dawn started to break, he had an insatiable desire to listen to Dominatus’s heroic tales. It was later revealed that Valius had admired gladiators since his youth and had even tried to enter a gladiator school. Naturally, his father was vehemently against it, and tossed the young Valius into the army instead. Perhaps this boyish admiration still remained in his heart. After work, he returned to his manor and immediately requested a match with Dominatus using wooden swords.
Valius was a famed, skilled swordsman in his youth, but now past middle age, his body didn’t move as nimbly as he wished. He didn’t stand a chance against Dominatus, but very rarely, the governor would score a point against the gladiator. Valius would crow with victory like a small child, leaping up and down innocently.
“I doubt there aren’t many in the world who could land a blow against you, Dominatus, the greatest gladiator of our age,” Valius gloated.
“Indeed,” Dominatus agreed. “I haven’t suffered a loss during matches or even practice battles for many years now.”
Thanks to Dominatus’s flattery, Valius became happier still, and the two men grew so close that they would bathe together. Often after dinner, they would play board games and drink until morning. At first, Lucianus watched this wholesome sight with a smile on his face, but Valius monopolized Dominatus so much that the noble soon grew annoyed and jealous.
One day, Valius brought home a soldier who was rumored to be the strongest within D’Aleppo. This soldier was ordered to have a hand-to-hand battle with Dominatus, and the two fought without brandishing any weapons. The soldier was brawny and splendid, but he ended up surrendering when his joints were locked by Dominatus.
“You’re amazing with the sword, spear, and even your bare fists!” Valius gushed. “I’m sure that you can do the work of thirty men on the battlefield.”
After this, Valius favored Dominatus even more and refused to let the gladiator leave his side. Dominatus, perhaps respecting the governor in turn, didn’t look at all upset whenever he was called for. The two men didn’t resemble each other in appearance, but when they clashed with swords, they looked like brothers with an age gap or perhaps a father and a son.
On the sixth day after Lucianus set foot in D’Aleppo, they received news that the road to the south had been restored. That night, Dominatus said words that shocked Lucianus to the core; the noble couldn’t have expected to hear them.
“Lucianus, there’s something I’d like to talk with you about,” the gladiator said. He had just parted ways with Valius, the smell of alcohol lingering on his breath.
Lucianus had been dozing off in bed and blearily rubbed his sleepy eyes as he sat up.
“Is anything the matter?” he asked. “Is it tiring to be with my uncle? I ask that you endure it until tomorrow. Everything will be over then.”
“No, that’s not what I’m referring to,” Dominatus replied. “Valius is a splendid man. I respect him from the bottom of my heart.” He gripped a sleepy Lucianus’s hands. “He asked me to go with him to Dyna.”
“I see. So you’re going with him to Dyna. That’s… That’s… No, that’s not fine at all! Not one bit!” Lucianus was shocked awake in an instant. He was on high alert, immediately understanding the implication. “Dyna?!” he cried. “What in the world are you on about?!”
“Valius took a liking to my swordplay skills, and he invited me to serve him as his guard. I’m thinking of accepting his offer.”
No words left Lucianus’s lips. Dominatus was deciding something so important on his own—he wasn’t in his right mind.
“No! I won’t allow it!” Lucianus shouted. “You swore that you’d never leave my side.”
“I did,” Dominatus replied. “But that doesn’t mean that we must always be right next to each other.”
Of course Lucianus knew that. Even so, he couldn’t obediently nod his head.
“We went through such hardship to get here,” he said, unable to hide his panic. “Are you saying that you’ll return to Dyna as a soldier? We worked so hard to complete our journey, and now it shall all be for naught.”
“Not at all,” Dominatus said. He cupped his beloved’s face in his hands. “Our journey together wasn’t meaningless. I’ve learned many things. I was able to learn more about your priceless feelings, and they will support me in the years to come. Listen to me, Lucianus. Quite honestly, I couldn’t care less about Dyna’s politics and the future of the Balmain Empire. None of that matters to me. But Azerius is my enemy. A battle to defeat him is a battle for myself as well. I want to fight for myself and to protect your family as well. That’s my reason for heading to Dyna with Valius.”
Dominatus had steeled his resolve. This wasn’t a decision he made on a drunken whim, but a choice he’d settled upon after much agonizing.
“Then I shall go with you,” Lucianus insisted. “I’ll go with you to Dyna.”
“No,” Dominatus replied. “You must wait here. If you’re near danger, I would be so worried it would affect my performance and put us both in danger.”
Lucianus bit his lip. He didn’t want to be apart from Dominatus, but he refused to become dead weight.
“Don’t worry,” Dominatus assured. “Valius will win. I’m sure of it. And I’ll hold you in my arms once more. There’s no need for me to promise the natural order of this world. I beg of you. Please stay here and wait for me.”
Lucianus was silent for a while before he spoke. “You’re telling me to wait again. I doubt you’d understand just how painful it is to wait for the return of your beloved.” He slumped his shoulders with tears in his eyes.
“I’m sorry,” Dominatus said. A grimace was on his lips. “I’m aware of how cruel my request is. But I must fight this battle.” He used his thumb to wipe away the tears that formed at the edges of Lucianus’s eyes.
“Is fighting so important to you?”
“I’ve fought countless battles for my survival, money, and the applause of a crowd. For the first time, I’d like to fight for my pride. I know that I’m being selfish. I truly feel bad for doing this to you, but I hope that you’ll forgive me.”
Never had Dominatus been so desperate to get his wish. His earnest desire to have Lucianus understand his feelings was apparent. A man who had spent his life in battles wanted to fight to protect his pride for the first time. Driven by this impulse, a blazing fire had been lit in his heart. Lucianus knew that there was no stopping the gladiator once he had his mind so set on his goal.
“Very well,” Lucianus said. “I shall wait here. The moment I receive word of your victory, I shall head to Dyna.”
“Lucianus…”
“Say no more. Another word, and I shall slap you.”
Spurred by the hopes of becoming Dominatus’s greatest ally and the only one in the world that could understand him best, Lucianus relented. But his feelings of understanding and his emotions of refusing to do so were fighting bitterly within his heart. Should Dominatus say anything more, Lucianus would be tempted to recant his claims.
Dominatus was silent as he tightly hugged Lucianus, who was desperately trying to control his emotions. The gladiator petted the noble’s head many times as though to pacify a crying child. Lucianus calmed down upon feeling Dominatus’s warmth.
“Hug me tighter,” Lucianus ordered like a petulant child.
“Like this?” Dominatus asked.
He squeezed tighter, enveloping the noble in his embrace. Lucianus entrusted his body to this temporary sense of relief while suppressing his sigh. Not once had the noble wished to become a soldier. But now, he was bitterly regretting the fact that he hadn’t grown into a brawny man. Had he been a knight, surely, he could’ve tagged along and fought by Dominatus’s side. All Lucianus could do was wait, and this sense of powerlessness made him deeply frustrated with himself.
Chapter 7
Chapter 7
THE NEXT MORNING, AS DAWN STARTED TO BREAK, Valius commanded his army of fifteen thousand Balmain men to quietly leave D’Aleppo. A thin layer of morning fog shrouded them. Dominatus was atop his horse as he followed Valius and glanced at Lucianus to signal his departure. Lucianus was sad to see him go but didn’t want to send off his beloved with a frown—the noble tried his best to muster a smile as he waved farewell.
Lucianus had never been deeply religious, but after their departure, he visited a temple every day to provide offerings to the gods. He prayed for a long while as part of his daily routine. Seconds felt like an eternity, and nothing he did lightened his mood. Still, he didn’t want to spend his time waiting simply twiddling his thumbs, and began immersing himself in the library of the manor. It seemed the previous mayor had amassed quite the collection, and the library was filled with a vast number of books and scrolls to parse.
The citizens of D’Aleppo spoke Hertian, and luckily, Lucianus was rather fluent in that language. He had no problem reading these texts, and he’d found quite a few that were deeply interesting. He spent all his days holed up in the library, reading away.
He’d go for a walk on occasion for a change of pace, but the winters of D’Aleppo were freezing, and he had no friends in this city. It made him feel dreadfully lonely.
Almost a month later, when Lucianus was holed up in the library as usual, a slave called Mondesaro—who acted as a butler within the manor—burst into the room, short of breath.
“Lord Lucianus!” he cried. “You’ve got news from Dyna!”
Mondesaro offered a scroll that was sealed with red wax. The insignia on Valius’s ring had been pressed upon it.
“A letter from my uncle,” Lucianus muttered.
He undid the string and broke open the seal, his heart beating loudly against his chest.
“Wh-what does it say?” Mondesaro asked. “How is Lord Valius?”
The slave was usually quiet and rarely spoke much, but worry now filled his face as he waited with bated breath. Once Lucianus finished reading the letter, he let out a deep sigh and clutched Mondesaro’s hands.
“They won! Uncle Valius has achieved victory!” Lucianus cried. “Under his command, the Balmain army spectacularly defeated the Imperial Guards, and even managed to dethrone Azerius, who was occupying the imperial palace!”
“Really? Did he truly win?” Mondesaro gasped. The man who had served Valius for many years smiled with tears in his eyes. “What a joyous day!”
“I shall head to Dyna immediately.”
“Most certainly. My lord has also ordered me to go with you when you return to Dyna, Lord Lucianus. I shall make the preparations immediately!”
Mondesaro had been raised in Dyna as well. He was elated by not only the victory, but the fact that he could now return to his home. His joy was apparent in his voice.
When Lucianus was left alone, he read the letter once more. It mentioned that Dominatus was alive and well without any injuries. Lucianus wiped his tears away with his palms several times.
The next morning, Lucianus left D’Aleppo. Under Valius’s orders, two Balmain soldiers accompanied the noble as guards. If allowed, Lucianus would have marched ahead even through the night, but unable to do so, he continued this trip that tested his patience. On the tenth day, he finally returned to Dyna, the familiar scenery coming into sight.
He’d been worried that the city would be a mess from the grisly war, but it was hardly different from when he left. Balmain soldiers were patrolling the area, but that was really the only notable difference. Many people walked along the streets, and people and goods flooded the market. Slaves were being sold today as well in the square. Lucianus decided to return home at once, and the moment he set foot in his manor, Kaira leaped out and hugged him tightly.
“Lord Lucianus! I’m so glad you’re safe!” Kaira cried.
“I’m sorry for making you worry and for leaving this place for so long,” Lucianus replied.
After their joyous reunion, Kaira guided Lucianus to the sofa of the sunroom and started to meticulously clean the noble’s feet. Only when Lucianus was reunited with his butler did he truly feel like he was back home. His slaves appeared to greet him one by one, expressing their joy at their master’s return.
“What’s my uncle up to?” Lucianus asked.
“He’s staying at the imperial palace in hopes of creating a new senate,” Kaira replied.
“I see. He must be busy. I saw quite a few soldiers patrolling the streets. Has there been some crime around here?”
“No, the citizens have mostly calmed down. Fragments of the Imperial Guards still remain, so the soldiers are simply ensuring our safety.”
According to Kaira, the moment word had spread that the Balmain army was invading Dyna to overthrow the emperor, the senators with close relations to Azerius loaded their carriages with their assets and fled the city out of fear. However, the Balmain army had closed off all streets that led to Dyna. The senators that tried to flee were captured and had to forfeit their assets as they were thrown into prison.
Citizens and merchants were allowed to enter and exit the city as they pleased, and the citizens soon realized that their daily lives wouldn’t be affected. And so, there wasn’t much confusion even when the Balmain forces entered the streets. In fact, some had even voiced their joy upon seeing Valius’s return. Lucianus’s biggest worry had been the battle against the Imperial Guards, but many of them had fled out of fear as well. In the end, the Balmain forces won in a landslide. Only the emperor’s bodyguards remained to put up a fight, but they didn’t last long either.
“What’s Dominatus doing?” Lucianus asked.
“He’s assisting Lord Valius,” Kaira replied. “He visited here a few times, but he seemed very busy with his work.”
“Good grief. My uncle favors Dominatus and is working him to the bone.”
Lucianus wanted to meet with Dominatus as soon as he could, but even he was hesitant to visit the imperial palace. He decided to send one of his messengers there tomorrow.
“Kaira, I’d like to take a bath,” Lucianus said.
“Of course. I shall prepare it immediately,” the servant replied.
Lucianus had dreamed of bathing in his home once more. He took his time and relaxed in the hot water as he had his most skilled servant massage his aching body.
“Home is best,” Lucianus said slowly. He’d been enjoying some wine after he left the bath.
“How was your trip?” Kaira asked kindly.
“It was a difficult one. I’d never ridden on a horse for that long before, and my buttocks were sore. I felt the muscles throughout my body ache, and the vibrations caused my head to hurt. Even my teeth started to feel sore, and I couldn’t take a bath. I was battered by the cold rain for a day and caught a fever. I trekked through the icy snow and even climbed a mountain. I’ve never suffered so much, and it only made me acutely aware of my privileges. I’ve been shockingly blessed with my birth, and I’ve been spoiled to no end, enough to make others exasperated.”
“It isn’t your fault that you were born into a blessed environment. No one can choose how and where they’re born. A person can only make the best out of the situation that they’re born into. Still, it seems like you’ve had a very insightful experience.”
“I have indeed.”
***
At the peak of his exhaustion, Lucianus couldn’t fight against his drowsiness. He crawled into bed before the sun had set, grateful that he was able to sleep in his bed once more as his consciousness drifted away. He slept like a log and was in a slumber so deep that he couldn’t recall any of his dreams. When he awoke, he had completely lost track of time. He wasn’t sure if it was in the middle of the night or if it was at the crack of dawn.
Still half-asleep, he’d assumed that Dominatus had slept with him that night, but no one was beside him. For some inexplicable reason, Lucianus’s thoughts had reverted to the time when he paid the gladiator to sleep with him. Why is he gone? Lucianus wondered. Has he already gone home? Tears filled his eyes as he was overcome with grief and sorrow. He loved Dominatus so dearly, and yet, he was unable to convey his feelings. He wanted to be loved, but he wasn’t able to be honest with himself.
“Dominatus,” Lucianus murmured. He called his beloved’s name, his heart trembling in his chest. “Dominatus. Dominatus.”
Like a child calling out for his mother, Lucianus continued to mutter the gladiator’s name. It only made the noble yearn for his beloved even more, but his senses were slowly returning to him. I don’t have an unrequited love for him. He’s my lover, and he swore his love to me. That’s right. Dominatus swore his love to me.
I finally returned to Dyna. Why isn’t he here? If he won’t come meet me, I just need to go to him. Propelled by some unknown force, Lucianus got out of bed. I must meet Dominatus right now. That was the only thought that filled his mind as he tossed aside his nighttime robe. He slipped a tunic for outings over his head and in his impatience, he couldn’t fasten his belt properly.
“Where are you going?” a man called behind him.
Lucianus almost jolted in surprise as he turned around and saw Dominatus standing there, by the entry to the garden.
“You snuck in again,” Lucianus accused.
“That’s an unkind way to phrase things,” Dominatus replied.
His cheeky response and fearless smile hadn’t changed, mimicking his mannerisms from that special night—when he told Lucianus that his battle against Grucos had been decided.
“Were you planning on going out at such a late hour?” Dominatus asked.
“That was my plan,” Lucianus replied. “My lover wouldn’t come meet me, so I thought I should go meet him.”
“What an awful lover you’ve got,” Dominatus whispered. He approached Lucianus. “Who in the world would make such a beautiful lover like you feel so lonely?”
“I agree. If I see him again, I’ll slap him.”
In response to Lucianus’s serious reply, Dominatus turned his cheek. He had no other choice. “Go ahead,” he said. “Slap me as much as you like. It’s my punishment for being so late to meet you.”
“Your attitude is laudable. I won’t hold back.”
Lucianus raised his hand in the air, and Dominatus closed his eyes. Lucianus took his chance and raised his other hand to cup the gladiator’s face gently. Lucianus drew Dominatus close and kissed him passionately.
“I wanted to see you so badly,” Lucianus whispered. His eyes started to sting with tears. “Dominatus, do you understand just how much I wanted to see you?”
“I feel the same,” Dominatus replied. “I can finally hold you in my arms.” He pulled the noble in for a tight embrace.
“It’s these arms,” Lucianus said, his voice trembling. “I’d been dying to be in your arms once more. They hug me tightly and refuse to let me go. And your lips. They’re so sweet as they steal my heart.”
Lucianus placed his fingers against his beloved’s lips. Dominatus grasped the slender fingers and kissed them.
“I’d been dreaming about you too,” Dominatus said. “Your eyes. No matter how much I peer into them, they dazzle beautifully, and my heart is always stolen by your gaze.”
Lucianus started to chuckle.
“Why are you laughing?” Dominatus asked.
“Your words. You sound like a poet,” Lucianus replied.
Dominatus grinned. “Do they not suit me?”
“They don’t. But I can tell that you’re trying your best to choose those words for me, and they make me so happy.”
“I suppose I shouldn’t do things that I’m not used to. You’re a horrible man for laughing at my heartfelt words of love.” Dominatus scooped Lucianus up and laid him onto bed. “You smell sweet. It’s the scent of lilies. Did you know that I was going to sneak into your bedroom again?”
“Of course not. Don’t be so conceited.”
Dominatus smirked as he removed Lucianus’s clothes. “Is it conceit? I thought you loved me deeply. Am I wrong?”
“Not at all. But I don’t do everything for your sake. Dominatus, let’s talk later. The night is so short.”
Lucianus removed his waistcloth in front of his lover, his cock already standing erect with anticipation.
“You’re rather assertive today,” Dominatus said.
“But of course,” Lucianus replied. “We’re finally reunited. If I’m not assertive here, when will I be? While I was in D’Aleppo, I’d been dreaming of the day you’d hold me again.”
“I’m sorry to make you feel so lonely, Lucianus.”
Dominatus leaned over the noble and kissed him passionately, trying to devour Lucianus whole. The noble, in turn, begged for his lover’s lips and entangled his tongue with the gladiator’s. Dominatus’s warm hands glided across Lucianus’s body, and Lucianus couldn’t suppress his moans. He was so sensitive that a mere touch made him feel like he was in the midst of climax.
“You’re a bit too loud,” Dominatus warned. “You’ll awaken your servants.”
“C-can you blame me?” Lucianus stammered. “Every place you touch feels good. There isn’t a single spot on my body that’ll reject you. It feels so good that I feel like I may die, Dominatus.” They were only kissing, and already, Lucianus was out of breath.
Dominatus chuckled. “You’re too adorable.” His gaze was kind as a fierce twinkle glimmered within. Lucianus felt like he was having sex with a prideful beast, filled with love.
“You’re my wolf,” Lucianus said. He couldn’t help himself. “You’re my beloved wolf that belongs to me, and no one else.”
Dominatus gazed at Lucianus quizzically.
“Is something the matter?” Lucianus asked.
“No, nothing at all,” Dominatus replied, spreading Lucianus’s legs wide and stretching Lucianus’s hole with his fingers before he entered his beloved. Amid the pleasure, Lucianus’s mind and body were overjoyed to be in the arms of his lover once more. The delight poured out of Lucianus with no end in sight.
“I became yours…” Lucianus gasped. “We’ve become one again.”
“That’s right,” Dominatus replied. “As our bodies connect, you become mine, and I become yours. You’re my precious sheath, my precious light, and my precious life.”
He started to thrust aggressively, and Lucianus desperately clung to Dominatus’s back for fear that they’d be torn apart.
“Ah… Mm… Dominatus, you’re going too fast,” Lucianus gasped.
“Forgive me. I can’t stop myself. My heart and body won’t stop as I yearn for you.”
The gladiator was like a whirlwind, and Lucianus became a mess with Dominatus’s rapid movements. Before he knew it, Lucianus felt pleasure coursing up his erect cock.
“Ah! Mm!” Lucianus cried.
White fluid spurted from his cock as Dominatus thrust into him, the sticky substance splattering onto his stomach. Dominatus smeared the semen onto Lucianus’s chest, enjoying the sticky sensation. Lucianus’s body was sensitive from the orgasm, and even the gentlest of touches was stimulating. His body shuddered with ecstasy as he let out cries of pleasure.
***
“You looked at me oddly earlier,” Lucianus said. He was lying in bed, resting his head onto Dominatus’s chest.
“Oddly?” Dominatus asked.
“You did, when I called you a wolf.”
“Ah,” Dominatus replied, hugging Lucianus’s bare shoulders. “I was simply a bit shocked to hear you call me that.”
“Why?”
“When I was a child, my parents gave me a nickname, ‘Thauzan.’”
Lucianus had never heard of the word before and repeated it in befuddlement.
“It means ‘wolf’ in my nation’s language,” Dominatus explained. “My eyes had apparently resembled a wolf’s, earning me that nickname. I’d almost forgotten all about it, so I was shocked to hear you call me that. You envisioned a wolf when you saw my eyes too, didn’t you?”
“It’s not just your eye color. I think of you as a prideful wolf as well. You submit and bow to no one.”
“Not exactly.” Dominatus chuckled.
Lucianus raised his head to look at him. “What do you mean?”
“I bow to you.”
He chuckled, but his words conveyed his true emotions. Lucianus felt the same and could relate all too well.
“I heard that my uncle has been using you quite a bit,” Lucianus said.
“He is,” Dominatus replied. “He works people to the bone, but he also works shockingly hard himself.”
“Who will become the new emperor? My uncle?”
Dominatus shook his head. “He doesn’t plan to. Valius has been trying to abolish the monarchy. After selecting new senators, he plans on making them cooperate with magistrates and the parliament. His vision is to create a political environment that fully reflects the wishes of the people. He’s been hoping for your assistance as well, since you’re a knowledgeable man.”
“I don’t know much, but I’d like to help my uncle. Has there been anything else? Tell me everything.”
“Ah, he did ask if I wanted to become a centurion.”
As the name suggested, a centurion commanded a century, or a hundred soldiers.
“That’s amazing,” Lucianus said. “Your hard work must’ve been viewed very highly. And what will you do?”
“I’m thinking about it. If I work as a centurion for years and produce good results, I’ve heard that I could be knighted. I’d require a title like that to become a man suitable for you.”
Annoyed by this phrasing, Lucianus plucked one of Dominatus’s chest hairs.
“Hey, that hurts,” the gladiator said.
“I know. I only did it because you’re so stupid,” Lucianus replied. “If you would like to work in the military, I shall support your endeavor, but if you only want to do it for the rank, I suggest you turn down the offer. My goal isn’t to be with a man of suitable rank.”
Dominatus sounded a touch relieved. “I see. Then I suppose I shall reject the job.”
“Do as you wish. But are you sure? It’s quite an honor to be considered for the job of centurion.”
“I don’t mind. What I want isn’t honor, but your love. And the only person in the world I’d like to protect is you.”
Lucianus was happy to hear such firm affirmation. As he smiled and gazed at his beloved, Dominatus drew him close and planted a kiss on his forehead. It felt awfully solemn.
“I’ve got no homeland, no family, and no god to worship,” Dominatus said. “You’re my whole world. I offer my life and my soul to you. Will you accept my oath?”
Hearing the solemn swear of his beloved made Lucianus’s heart tremble with joy.
“Of course,” Lucianus said, placing himself on top of Dominatus. “Then I shall make my oath as well. Let me swear it. Dominatus, I shall love you for the rest of my life. Until my heart stops beating, I shall love you and only you.”
“I accept your oath.”
The noble’s vision grew blurry with tears of happiness, obscuring the gladiator’s smile.
About the Creators
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Saki Aida
Born January 3 in Osaka, Japan, Aida was a prolific author and translator with dozens of works credited to her name across her twenty-year-spanning career. Aida first debuted in the pioneering BL literary magazine June in 2002 with the series Scars, and she continued to author works until her death in 2024. Best known for writing the long-running, BL-themed novel series S and Deadlock, Aida also published many one-off novels, including The End of the Sky, I Won’t Swear to God, and The Moon in the Void. Under the pen name Aidasaki, Aida published books and series for more general audiences as well, including the Ghost Detective and Psy-mesis Labyrinth series, and was the Japanese translator for the historical gay romance novel Muffled Drum.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Yamimaru Enjin
Born November 27 in Saga, Japan. A self-described homebody, credited works include Voice or Noise, I Can’t Even Breathe Without You, Eat or Be Eaten, and Double Helix.