Flavius Aulus

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Preface

This is a tale of a boy growing up on an alternative Earth, his companions and his mentors. The path he chose may seem surprising but there are precedents on our world. Incognito has been used often enough to describe the famous, be they noble lords or film stars, who wish to live for a time out of the public glare. In the seventeenth century Tsar Peter the Great worked as a carpenter in a Dutch shipyard for a time. He was trying to learn the technology needed to build a great navy for Russia. There is a tale that Tsar Nicholas visited England and stayed in a seaside guest house in the north. The Tzarina is supposed to have enjoyed helping the landlady with the housework. They were both godparents to the landlady's son.

The fun part is to guess what else is possible.

In this parallel Universe, the Ancient Roman Empire is still flourishing and for two and a half thousand years has been the dominant force on their world. Our two worlds diverged in AD 54 just before the death of Claudius. On this other world Claudius had sent his son Britannicus into hiding in the province he was named after, Britannia. Instead of being murdered, when civil war broke out following Nero's death Britannicus took power and created a much more stable empire avoiding many of the excesses we associate with the Roman Empire.

Wars, epidemics and natural disasters has slowed and sometimes reversed progress, just as in this world and so, in many ways their world is very similar to our own but there are differences.

Slavery still exists. Machines have reduced the need for massive manpower and the demand for slaves is declining. Captured prisoners from wars of conquest are a thing of the past. The main source is now through convicted criminals and so the supply has fallen as well. The majority of criminal court cases involve young people and the attitude is, that if their families cannot control them, they should go to someone who can.

Fines, capital and corporal punishments are used as well to act as deterrents but prisons are just places to hold people while they are dealt with.

Schools are becoming larger and are class based rather than tutor based. Nowadays they are free and theoretically open to all. In practice boys sit in the class strictly according to rank. The higher the rank the further to the front you sit slaves slaves sat on the floor to one side. Even school work was marked according to rank which sustained the tradition of boys following in their father's footsteps in work. Important subjects are taught in the mornings while the lesser subjects are taught in the afternoons. The idea being that in the afternoons boys can work with their fathers if appropriate.

It is not a utopian society by any means and changes come slowly but it's citizens and even some slaves live in relative security and comfort.

Chapter 1

Holding back the tears that were threatening to overwhelm him, Flavius took the ring from his father's still warm hand. At just 14, his childhood was over and possibly his life was in danger.

"I'll take that," snapped his Uncle Titus, "No point in delaying things. We've all got to get used to the new situation."

Flavius senior had always been proud of his son and expected him to take their House of Aulus to even greater strength and power in the empire. From an early age Flavius had taken an interest in his fathers activities who had been happy to teach him. From the moment that Flavius' father knew that he had cancer, they had made plans for this moment. They had agreed that Flavius' Uncle could not take control. As a manager he was a capable man and so the shipyard he owned was well run and could be profitable but he lacked that broader business acumen that ensured a steady flow of new orders.

Flavius had a natural talent in that direction but his age meant he lacked the experience and basic skills to run the far more complex House of Aulus business interests.

Flavius senior had also been concerned with his son's upbringing. If Titus was to take control as Flavius' guardian it was almost certain he would never surrender it again. He may not kill Flavius but the boy would be kept in the background, his education restricted and he would be sent to a distant estate where he would lose touch with events. Eventually the courts would rule that he was unfit to take up his duties as head of the House of Aulus.

Father and son had worked out a scheme. They were in full agreement for part of it but Flavius Senior had been shocked at his son's idea of a lifestyle but as he became more ill and without an alternative plan of his own, he finally agreed to his son's scheme. Flavius Senior even discussed it all with the Emperor and was surprised to find that Flavius would have Imperial support.

"Hurry up, boy." Titus ordered, "Don't just stand there. Give me the family ring."

In the back of his mind Flavius could almost hear his Father urging him on. If he had the courage to stand up to Titus now all may go well.

"While I wear this ring, you should address me more respectfully, Uncle."

"Don't be so rude, Flavius. Your Uncle is almost certainly going to become the Head of this House even if you have turned 14. It is you who should be respectful."

"I don't mean to be rude, Mother, but we should wait for the will to be read and for it to be ratified in court. Father would expect us to follow protocol."

"The bo....... Flavius is right, Julia," said Titus, "even if we have to waste time going through the system."

Titus glared at Flavius. "You'll learn the hard way that I don't like silly games nor insolence from a pup like you."

"Yes Uncle. If you'll excuse me, I should go to the Reception Hall."

Titus was furious at the exchange between him and Flavius. His thoughts turned to how he would bring his insolent nephew to heel. It was only when he noticed Julia's growing impatience that he realised the implications of Flavius' action. In this alternative world the House of Aulus was not only powerful in commerce but it's head was automatically Provincial Governor. The important and influential were gathering to pay their respects to their new Lord and Master. By entering the Reception Hall and taking his place on the podium wearing the family ring Flavius was proclaiming himself as his father's true successor. Instead of mounting the podium beside his nephew as a guardian should and accepting the greetings jointly, Titus could only watch as the commander of the military garrison saluted Flavius and offered his condolences.

"Thank you, General," replied Flavius. Raising his voice slightly, as if to include the rest of the gathering he continued, "There are matters that I need to deal with urgently. May I assume that General Maximilian spoke for all of you and may I ask you all to attend a formal reception where I may greet you all as you deserve."

That particular speech had been adapted from a TV play. It seemed safer to Flavius to copy something an adult had said. Nobody claimed that they recognised it but maybe they were more interested in the odd assortment of guests being ushered into the private part of the hall. The main gathering was arranged strictly according to rank. Those present knew their standing and automatically took their position. To one side was a small ante-room. Here, people expected by the Governor would wait. Because of the wide range of business interests and official duties carried out by the head of House of Aulus it was accepted that this was one of the most class free rooms of the Province.

The gathering was well versed in the art of subtle politics and their attention was again drawn to the podium. Pleased that his name had been singled out in the small but significant moment of local history General Maximilian saluted smartly and replied "Of course, sir. We understand."

Titus realised he was being sidelined but could do nothing about it. If he mounted the podium now it would be interpreted as a desperate attempt to claim some authority. He had tacitly surrendered his claim to be Head of the Family by not mounting the podium beside Flavius and he could only guess at what Flavius and his father had planned.

Flavius, on the other hand, was amazed that he had out-manoeuvred his uncle so easily. Uncle Titus could still become his guardian or become the Head of the House of Aulus through the courts but most of the legal system had been in the reception hall and had just accepted him without his uncle. They would now have to backtrack a little to find for Titus. Titus's primary claim is the grey area that now exists with a youth between the age of 14 and 21. Traditionally a man at 14, modern law accepts that he needs guidance while still growing up.

"The gentlemen are in your office, Master," said the majordomo quietly as Flavius left the reception hall.

Flavius was momentarily stunned. He didn't have an office, just his private quarters and to the slaves he was sir or young master. Again he had to fight back the tears as he realised how things had changed. He nodded not trusting himself to speak. He allowed the majordomo to usher him in and to the chair behind the imposing desk which was his father's place of work.

"One of the late Master's last acts was to call this meeting," began the majordomo, "If the new master permits, may it be without protocol."

Flavius nodded and the majordomo indicated that the others should sit before taking a seat himself. The only person to remain standing was a slave boy, about 15 years old who began serving drinks.

"What I have to say forms the basis of the late Master's will. The will will be formally read later but it will be almost impossible to contest if the requests of the late Master are already in place.

When the late Master learned of his illness he made plans concerning the guardianship of Master Flavius. He felt that such a duty would be too much for one man. Both Masters worked together to choose a Board of Guardians and with one exception they both agreed on us gentlemen to form the nucleus of that board.

"As Imperial Magistrate, would you Germanicus Susitus act as legal advisor and mentor to Flavius? You would teach him about his role as governor and Chief Provincial Magistrate. You would also countersign any document with Master Flavius."

The majordomo continued, dealing with the practical aspects of the position before concluding, "If you accept this role, sir you effectively become chairman of the Board of Guardians."

"Flavius' father did approach me about this," Germanicus replied, "I agree."

"Juan. Your master is retiring to the country soon. He had planned that you should go with him. You are still without equal in the International trade markets. Master Flavius wishes to buy you and give you your freedom providing you agree to be bonded to the House of Aulus until Flavius reaches 21. Your present master says that in recognition of your past service to him, you may choose."

"Like Master Germanicus I have already been approached on this matter. Master Flavius has always treated me well at the Exchange. I would be pleased to serve him."

Even before history diverged, the fate of slaves could be varied. Many would die quickly in the mines or other hazardous places but a few could become prosperous even owning slaves in their own right. It all depended on the needs of their master and their ability to serve him. Juan and the majordomo were among the fortunate ones. Juan had shown a talent for the stock markets at a time when his master had been badly injured and unable to visit the exchange often. The majordomo had worked hard at the jobs given to him and had been gradually promoted through the household hierarchy. He always studied the jobs of his superiors and could fill in when the need arose. He would always be a slave in the House of Aulus but he had that unique status of a man so expert in his job that he was irreplaceable.

"My role is to teach him the running of the household and the protocols and etiquette of his position." said the majordomo. "He is well versed in most of these matters already so my involvement will be slight. We now come to you, gentlemen."

The gentlemen were Harold Cirenson and his son Steven. None of the other men present knew anything about them or why they were here. Their clothes made them middle class and that was it. Harold did not know that much more. He was a clerk in a shipping company.

He had been at work when the Chief Clerk had approached saying, "There's a phone call for you. It's the Governor's Palace. Would it be convenient for you to visit."

"I'm sorry, sir. Could you say that again."

"The Governor wishes to see to you. Oh! I'm sorry, I forgot. With your son. They wish to know if it is convenient?"

"It must be a joke. I'm sorry, sir."

"No! I verified it with the telephone operator. It's genuine."

"What about time off? How do I get there? Harold realised that he was rambling but he needed time to think.

"Don't worry! It would be a great honour for this office to help the Governor in any way. Take what time you need on full pay and I will arrange for a cab to be at your disposal. On the office account of course. If you like, I'll phone the school and warn them you're on your way."

"Thank you!"

Steven was more relaxed about the invitation. A break from school was always welcome. Both were surprised that instead of waiting at the back of the reception hall they were lead to the ante-chamber.

Now sitting there, listening to the majordomo, no one except Flavius had any idea why they were there.

"I'll start, if I may, with Master Steven. Master Flavius has been impressed with the way Master Steven tries to protect the younger boys from bullying. The bully's have often been of superior rank and the teachers take their side." Looking directly at Steven, he said, "You could have a much easier time if you just let your betters decide what's best."

"Suck up to them, you mean."

"Manners, Steven. Remember where you are." said Harold.

"It's OK, you must all say what you think." said Flavius giving a little laugh as he continued, "Except for Matthew, of course. He's reading from a script."

"The late Master, Master Flavius and I planned this meeting, yes. I should point out that the late Master disapproved of what we are about to discuss next. He only included it in his will at the request of the Emperor."

The mention of the Emperor startled everyone except Flavius. Before he lost control of the meeting, the majordomo continued, "So far, we have only discussed the business side of Master Flavius' affairs. We must also discuss his personal development. Finding a suitable mentor has proved far more difficult.

Again looking at Steven he said, "We need people with a strong sense of courage and virtue.

"Before going into detail, may I explain the broader picture. Parts of it are highly confidential and should not be discussed outside this room. As you know, relations with Scandinavia are extremely tense at the moment. If it comes to war then this province will be of vital strategic importance. Titus is limited in his vision and strategic planning. It is hoped that the Board of Guardians will produce steadier and wiser counsel until Flavius comes of age and of course we are hoping that Flavius will live up to the potential he is already showing."

"Settling the question of guardianship quickly will also add to the province's stability.

"There is another matter troubling the Emperor. There is such a desperate shortage of scientists and engineers that the Empire is lagging behind technically. In business we are losing to our rivals because our products are just that bit slower, less reliable or lacking the the latest specifications. If the trend continues then military superiority may be lost."

The men listening to this lecture had become increasingly restless wanting make their contribution. The majordomo held up his hand for silence.

"It's not an immediate disaster. It's a long term problem but it must be addressed.

"Education in the Empire has become stagnant. It is virtually impossible for the son of a senator to fail an exam just as it is impossible for a slave, even if he is allowed to go to school, to pass. Qualifications are given by rank not ability in spite of the training programs introduced for all classes by the Emperor. It's been going on for so long, it's as if it's been inbred into the teachers.

"As you know, those taking office by succession must provide some service to the Empire and Flavius has chosen to challenge the education system.

"Another problem that needs to be addressed is Flavius' personal development. At 14 he is of age and able to succeed his father even if the law now requires provision for his guidance until he is 21.

"The plan therefore is to revive a plan tried in Rome a couple of hundred years ago. It was called the House of Sparta and was intended to train the sons of nobles. While in the House or wearing the House insignia they had the status of slaves. If needed, they could leave to attend an official function or family business in their proper dress when they would receive the respect due. The scheme showed possibilities and did seem to inculcate the proper ideals of duty, service and discipline. We also believe it will be good for Flavius to mix with other youths on an equal footing.

"The Board of Guardians will form the Adult contingent and Flavius will be the first boy to enrol. We are hoping that Steven there will agree to be the second to enrol and that his father become the disciplinarian. Mr Cirenson's military service as a physical training instructor should prove useful."

Pointing at the boy slave he added, "As children, Flavius and that slave over there were close friends. He will also be enrolling. We will discuss the set up later if we may but I'd like to explain Steven's task first.

"Steven, you will continue go to school as your father's son, not as a slave of the House of Sparta but Flavius will attend you as your slave. He will sit and work with the other slaves. The idea is to put the school authorities into an impossible situation. Will they insult a person of Senator rank and mark him down for wearing slave brown or will they ignore the Governor's wishes and treat him according to his rank. If they do either then they will be openly defying the Emperor. If they give in and start work according to ability then they'll have an edge when it comes to grants and other help.

"Your position will be a little strange, Steven. If he just showed up in a slave's tunic it wouldn't work. He'd be humoured but no one would treat it seriously. You are there to treat Flavius like a slave and, if it's appropriate punish him. You'll face hostility from the school authorities and other boys of the Senatorial and Equestrian ranks but of course, you're used to that."

"Much as I would like to serve the Emperor," said Harold, "I could not accept this position neither could I let my son become involved. It is a capital offence to lay hands on someone of superior rank. It may seem reasonable now but even the best plans can go sour. What would happen to my son then?"

"Is that your only concern?" asked Flavius.

"Yes," replied Harold, "I agree with you about the state of education in the empire and forcing one school to break ranks might help. There's a young slave boy in our office. He had a good schooling before his conviction and he still wants to learn. If he's lucky in his masters he might use an education to gain his freedom. Like Juan."

"But he won't become a scientist or engineer, will he?" asked Germanicus.

"Probably not," agreed Harold, "But you're either going to open up the education system or you're not. If you're going to make this scheme work you can't have half measures. Don't give an opening to the bureaucrats."

"Excuse me. I need to make a phone call," said Flavius as he left the room.

He returned shortly. "I'm putting this onto the speaker phone. Mr Cirenson, they'd like to speak to you."

"Hello," said Mr Cirenson.

"Mr Cirenson, could you elaborate a little on your comment about opening up education, please?"

"Well, it's not only education. You get an idea that could work but if the bureaucrats don't like it, they start adding so many terms and conditions, you end up with an unworkable mess. If it happens in this case Steven and I could be in a very vulnerable position."

"I do agree with what you've said. You've no idea how many schemes I've seen fail through this sort of thing. Anyway, let's move on. If you had an Imperial Edict authorising you to act as disciplinarian and protecting you by Imperial License, would you accept the position then?"

"Yes, of course. I'd be honoured to accept but I can't see the Emperor agreeing."

"I already have." The voice which Harold now recognised continued with a hint of laughter, "Flavius' father and I used to play this trick occasionally though I think Flavius has taken a bit of a risk playing it on his disciplinarian. It's a pleasure to receive really honest comments, occasionally. We'll speak again soon."

Pausing briefly while everyone enjoyed Harold's confusion and shock the Majordomo continued, "And Steven. How about you. Are you willing to join the House of Sparta?"

"Yes of course. I've read about the House of Sparta. It sounded like fun. Will I be doing the same things as Flavius?" he asked excitedly.

"Yes! There's one difference from the original House. Youths will be accepted from all ranks and treated the same. It should be quite an adventure."

"In which case," said Flavius, "There is just one more piece of business that needs to be discussed. Who is going to manage my local factories and companies? I'd like to ask Uncle Titus. It means he would have to be invited to join the Board of Guardians."

It surprised everyone but after more discussion everyone agreed. He would be good at the job and there should be at least one family member on the Board. Titus arrived quickly on being invited to join them. He stood glowering as he learned what had been planned behind his back though his temper abated considerably when he learnt what he was being offered.

"I'm not the complete yokel everyone thinks I am. I've been running a training program for all the lower classes in my shipyard for some time now. I've got some damned fine engineers and tradesmen out of it"

"I know, Uncle. It's one of the reasons I wanted you. Would you be able to introduce similar programs everywhere?"

"Probably."

He moved to the table to pour himself a drink. He took a sip then filled more glasses and began handing them out to everyone including the flustered servant.

"If I'm going to be mixing with slaves and commoners I'd better get some practice in." he said.

On the way home, Steven was looking thoughtful.

"Is something worrying you?" asked Harold.

"No. I was just wondering. Have you ever fucked a slave?"

"Years ago. Why?"

"Well, at times I'm going to be a slave. Could you fuck me if you wanted to? Could I fuck Flavius?"

"That's a good question. I would think, yes."

"I was thinking of you doing me. You're always saying men of equal rank shouldn't penetrate each other. They shouldn't penetrate youths who will grow up to be their equal or superior. Is that why you've never touched me or don't you like me that way?"

"I've never thought of you as being sexy before but you are." replied Harold hugging his son. "You know, when we're in the House of Sparta, I'll treat you like a slave. I won't show favourites and I will probably have to beat you at some stage. But if I'm going to treat you like that, it also means I can use you for my pleasure. How does that sound?"

"Scary! Supposing I can't handle it all?"

"Just remember, I love you and I'm proud of you now. The more you do and the more you achieve, the prouder I'll become. All the boys who join the House of Sparta will be taken to their limits and you will fail at some things. When that happens you'll be judged on how you handle the consequences. Think about what I said about beating you though. Understand what this all means."

Steven nodded happily and nestled closer into his father. His hand rested on Harold's leg before creeping slowly up to rest on his father's cock.

"Not yet," whispered Harold, "I'm wondering what to tell your mother. When she knows I've spoken to the Emperor and I'm getting an Imperial Edict, she's going to have hysterics. How am I going to convince her we've got to carry on as normal and are not about to move to Rome?"

Chapter 2

Somehow, after all the excitement of the previous day, Harold managed to get to work on time. He slipped into his cubicle and started on the files waiting for him. Alan, one of the office slaves, brought him some coffee as usual and stood waiting to be dismissed. Harold looked at him.

"Been in trouble again?" asked Harold.

The boy nodded, knowing that if he spoke floods of tears would follow.

"The computers?"

Again the boy nodded. Whenever Alan thought the office was empty, Alan would either find scraps of paper to practise his writing. He would read any material lying around and recently had been trying to use the computers. Some tolerated his activities, Harold even left stuff lying around for him but others considered it stealing. Even the lead in the pencil or the electricity used by the computer belonged to his Master and was definitely not for him to use.

"Go to the stationery cupboard and fetch a couple of pads."

The boy hurried off on his errand, hoping that Harold had more jobs for him. He liked Mr Cirenson, knowing that he had tried to help him. Harold had just turned to his work before his supervisor appeared.

His voice almost squeaked with excitement as he said, "There's an Imperial Messenger to see you. He says he has an Imperial Edict for you."

"Thank you, sir. I was expecting it but I didn't think it would be delivered here. I'm sorry for troubling you."

"Troubling me! It's such an honour for this department. You'll need some privacy. You must use my office."

The chief clerk led the way to where the messenger was waiting. The messenger quickly verified Harold's identity, handed over the sealed package, saluted and left. The supervisor quickly cleared his desk, closed the blinds and left asking Harold if there was anything he wanted.

"Alan is on an errand for me. Could you send him in to me when he returns, please."

"Alan? Of course." The supervisor was desperately curious as to what business Harold was involved with and Alan's inclusion just added to his bewilderment.

Harold read the edict with some satisfaction. It offered the protection he had asked for and gave a legal status to the House of Sparta. His son's relationship with Flavius was well protected. In addition he was required to investigate other ways to expand training among slaves and the lower classes. While he was reading, Alan had slipped quietly into the room and waited nervously, wondering what sort of trouble he was in.

Harold looked Alan up and down. Alan seemed to have recovered his composure but he was still tense and drawn.

"Strip!" commanded Harold.

Alan hesitated. It was an unusual command during working hours and he wasn't sure if he had heard right.

"Hurry up, please. Take your tunic off."

Alan obeyed. Harold noticed the wince of pain as the boy lifted his arms to remove his tunic but said nothing until the boy stood before him, naked. Harold saw the large angry bruise on his ribs before telling him to turn round to see the welts across his back. He was pleased to see that the boy probably had not been scarred for life but with so many fresh wounds across old, it would only be a matter of time.

"How old are you, boy?" asked Harold as Alan turned to face him again.

"Thirteen, sir"

"Are all these punishments for stealing writing materials or do you get up to anything else?"

"No sir, nothing else. Just the writing things, sir"

Harold looked at the boy again, this time noticing the boy's fair hair and smooth skin. His body was hairless except for a few wisps around his cock. His body lacked any fat and his muscles were beginning to show some definition. In all, he was an attractive young teen.

"Go and ask Mr Jameson if he could see me."

Alan glanced at his tunic but reluctantly headed for the door. He was used to being naked in front of others but working in an office meant he should be properly dressed even if it was in the browns and greys of a slave. He was thoroughly humiliated as the office staff and other slave boys stared at him. He delivered his message and scampered back to the office.

"Can I help you, Ciren...... er Mr Cirenson," asked Mr Jameson. The Imperial Edict confused him. Was Harold a representative of the Emperor or a subordinate.

"I'm unsure of all this as well," Harold said quietly, "Could we just talk man to man."

"Yes, of course. How can I help you?"

"I can't go into detail but I seem to have a second job now. At the Governor's Palace until His Excellency is 21. Hopefully it's only a small job and I'll be able to continue with my normal life but I may need to take telephone calls and if I make any notes or anything they have to remain confidential."

Mr Jameson nodded, "Yes, I see that."

"Could I move to that cubicle in the corner? It's more private.

"I don't think any cubicle is private enough and I don't think you realise the impact all this will have on your life. You'll have to use that vacant office next to mine. It's got a phone and a fax machine."

I'm still only a clerk. I'm not really entitled to an office.

"Perhaps not but if you have Imperial duties then there's no choice. May I ask, do these duties have anything to do with ensuring that Flavius succeeds his father rather than his Uncle Titus."

Harold nodded.

"Then I'm instructed to give you every assistance. Those instructions come from the very top."

"Thank you. This company doesn't approve of slave education, does it?

"No!"

"Then there could be a conflict. As you know, it's Imperial policy and His Excellency is going to actively push for it."

"Go on."

"Young Alan there could be an excellent choice for an education programme. It's not part of my brief to challenge this company's policy but I would be uncomfortable ignoring something right under my nose."

"Yes, I see your problem." Mr. Jameson paused, considering the problem. "I think you need an assistant. I'll assign Alan to you permanently. Use him how you like. He can sleep in your office unless you take him home. We can even have an extra terminal installed. Does that solve your problem?"

"Boy fetch me some card and string."

Alan quickly returned. Harold wrote 'Punished for Stealing' and using the string, hung it around Alan's neck.

"Now get on with your normal duties until I need you."

Red-faced with embarrassment and thoroughly humiliated Alan left the office to face to face the sniggers and scorn of the clerks and other slaves. Mr. Jameson looked at Harold, obviously puzzled.

"He was enslaved for shoplifting. His parents wouldn't pay the fines and compensation. Now he's been punished for stealing office materials. I've no sympathy for his situation and I don't want to be seen as condoning it. But he is trying to improve himself. I'll help him as best I can after he learns that I'm not going to be a soft touch.

"Yes, I see. I know there's a lot of fuss about training the under classes but I thought that was for engineers."

"They are. The problem seems to be with people's attitudes. The programmes are more or less stalled. Flavius is making his Imperial service duty an effort to get them moving again."

"I always assumed they would cause a breakdown in discipline and society. I think most people feel the same. You know! Slaves and the lower classes treating us as equals and the like."

"No! Alan is a slave as punishment and as a deterrent. No one will change that. If he's lucky he'll have a chance to work for his freedom but it won't be an easy option."

"The company has been thinking about a shift in policy but if we apply for grants the paperwork is horrendous and if we go it alone we could end up with trained slaves which no one wants. You know the way policies shift and change."

Without thinking, Harold said, "I said as much to the Emperor last night when he promised to send this."

Mr. Jameson stared at Harold. "Now that's quite a revelation. Please tell me all about it when you can. One small point. About the the company policy of no sex on company property. You won't be challenging that will you?"

"No! I really don't want to disrupt things."

"Fair enough! He is quite desirable though, isn't he. I'll envy you the opportunities you'll have off the premises."

"Thanks. I've been thinking that Lyllia may be more interested in companionship than in sex nowadays. We've even talked about buying a girl. You know, to help with the housework as well. Now I'm in a situation where boys seem to be readily available and I think I prefer it. Somehow using a slave girl would seem like trading Lyllia in for a younger model and I do still love her very much."

"I know what you mean. When I was promoted to Chief Clerk I bought a couple of boys rather than girls. It's worked quite well and my wife definitely has an eye for one of them. I daren't say it at home but he's turned into a better cook than my wife. I get on very well with the other."

"I don't think my wife would be interested in Alan sexually. She likes the big hunky types. She's a bit of a social climber so she would never allow herself to be penetrated by someone of such low rank. She might murder him if he turned out to be a better cook though, and me if it comes to that, for bringing him into the house."

Mr Jameson's laugh was cut short by the phone ringing.

"Ah well! Back to work. What are you doing now?"

"I'd like to look through this again if I can stay here a while longer. Then I must check the Jamaica shipment. It's all perishable and must be cleared today. I'd like to go home a bit early and take Alan with me, if that's OK. We have to go to the Governor's Palace this evening."

"Bananas, boys and politics. What an interesting time you're having. I'll check through your other files and transfer as many as I can. Just think, if anyone moans, I can claim Imperial Privilege."

While the two adults enjoyed a leisurely conversation Alan was in utter misery. Everyone could see the scars from his beating and the card round his neck proclaimed why. It was bad enough being naked when the other slaves were dressed but being proclaimed a criminal was completely demoralising. Worst of all, he liked Mr Cirenson and thought him a kind man. Why had he turned on him like this? He hadn't understood the conversation between the two men. He thought Mr Cirenson was trying to get him some education but there would be an argument. Maybe Mr Cirenson was pushing him away to prevent a row.

The day dragged on for ever. Finally he got an instruction to report to the office. His nerve failed him and he bolted for the toilet. He kept control of his bladder just long enough to reach the urinal.

Harold guessed why the boy had rushed for the toilet but he was not going to make it easy for him.

"Do you normally rush off in the opposite direction when you're summoned?" he asked.

"I'm sorry, sir. I just had to go."

"I'd hoped today would have taught you some respect for your masters. It seems I was wrong."

"No! Please sir! I couldn't help it. I just had to go."

"So if you come with me anywhere, does that mean you'll just have to go in the street?"

"No! Please sir! I'm sorry sir." Alan just burst into tears. "I'm so scared. Please don't punish me."

In a much softer voice Harold said, "As long as you understand, I expect the best possible behaviour from you. No excuses."

"Yes sir. I'll be good and I won't steal again. I promise."

"Then throw that placard in the bin and follow me."

It was the first time in nearly six months that Alan had left the offices where he worked and he felt quite important carrying Mr Cirenson's briefcase. The paving stones felt cold beneath his feet and a cool breeze felt like an Arctic blast. He gasped with surprise when he was ordered to get in a smart limousine beside Harold. The sudden changes of temperature and the exciting change to his circumstances caused his cock stir and begin to harden. He looked anxiously at Mr Cirenson.

"Don't worry." smiled Harold, "I'm enjoying the view."

Alan blushed but did not say anything. He was wondering whether Mr Cirenson was going to do sex with him. It frightened him that such a big step was out of his control but a different dread was about to rear it's head. As the car drew up outside of Harold's house, Alan realised that for the first time since his enslavement he was going to be in a private home. Instead of being a guest and playing with Harold's son he would stand there, his nakedness proclaiming that he was a convicted criminal and he was only there to be used.

He dutifully followed Harold from the car and into the house. His face turned bright red with embarrassment yet again as Lyllia, after greeting her husband, turned to look him over.

"Who's this then, dear." she asked.

"Just one of the office slaves. He's coming to the Governor's Palace with me tonight. It was easier to bring him here than pick him up later. He can wait in the garden shed if you like."

Alan thought there was a twinkle in Harold's eye but knew there was no reason why he should not be shut outside like a pet.

"He'll do no such thing," snapped Lyllia then shouted, "Steven, get down here."

There was a clattering on the stairs as Steven came charging down.

"Hello, Dad. Did you want something, Mother?"

"How many times do I have to tell about coming down the stairs like that? Take this boy and get him showered." Alan turned and she saw his back for the first time. "He needs something on his back. You know the ointment I use for cuts. Use that. Then find him a pair of your old shorts or something."

"Has Steven got anything in slave colours?" asked Harold.

"It's only for indoors so it doesn't matter. He can serve dinner later and you only get naked waiters in a brothel."

Alan and Steven did not say much as they carried Lyllia's instructions. Steven had Alan lie on his stomach on his stomach and gently applied the ointment. Both boys felt their cocks swelling with the intimate contact. Alan just waited for orders. When he had to rise, Steven would see his erection. If Steven did not like what he saw, would he punish Alan? If he wanted, Steven could fuck him and maybe then Mr Cirenson would see him as damaged goods and lose interest.

Steven's problem was that he was not used to slaves. His own erection was hidden by his clothes. He wanted Alan and if the slave realised this, would Alan think Steven weak if he did not take him? If he did take him, would his dad be angry for taking advantage of office property without permission?

Both boys' dilemmas were solved by Lyllia calling for them to hurry up. Steven scrambled up and rummaged for something for Alan to wear. Alan only showed his stiff cock briefly after being told to don the shorts Steven had found for him.

There had been a spate of shoplifting in Alan's home town. Some of Alan's friends had been involved and they boasted about how easy it was. It was Alan's bad luck that he chose to steal the new game he wanted just as a big crackdown started. He was caught, tried and found guilty along with a couple of other boys. The judge wanted to make an example of them. He ruled that Alan should pay a hefty fine, pay compensation to the store, the security firm that had caught him, the police and court for the time and labour they had put into his conviction. It ended up such a large sum his family would be bankrupt if they tried to pay it. This was the idea. To make parents keep an even closer eye on their children.

Alan's father was in tears when he spoke to Alan after the trial. He had his brother to consider as well. Alan would have to be sold into slavery to wipe the debt. The other two boys were sold as well. This had happened about nine months ago and he had been lucky to have been bought by the shipping company Harold worked for.

He still remembered his life with his family vividly and his evening's service in the Cirenson home made him dreadfully homesick. He helped Mrs Cirenson finish preparing the meal while Steven sat and chatted with his father. Then as the meal progressed he fetched further dishes from the kitchen. Towards the end of the meal he was told to fill another plate and eat it then start the washing up. As he obeyed his instructions he listened to the chatter in the other room with a tear in his eye as it reminded him of his own family life.

It was a particularly lively meal because Lyllia was so excited by the Imperial Edict. She did not know what it contained or how her husband was suddenly in the middle of such important affairs but the mere presence of it in her house was enough. She already knew the neighbours were curious about her husband riding in a limousine and she would be surprised if the fact he now had a personal slave had gone unnoticed. She was looking forward to some very enjoyable coffee mornings with the imposing leather folder bearing the Imperial seals on display in the cabinet.

Harold had warned her not to make a fuss and do things as normal. Her husband was right. She should play the whole thing down. Act as if this was normal for them. It would be more noble like. They were both thinking of social standing but where Harold worried about things going wrong and having something to fall back on Lyllia could see how high they could climb.

Finally he heard Harold tell Steven to go and get ready and was then summoned himself only to be told to go and wait by the front door and leave the shorts on the chair nearby. He did not have to wait long before Steven came bounding down the stairs taking the last few in one leap and landing with a noisy crash but what startled Alan more was the way Steven was dressed.

He had come down the stairs wearing nothing but a half tunic coloured brown. It had a gold emblem over the left thigh and a gold trim around the hem. Alan had noticed he was wearing a chain under his normal clothes but now he could see it clearly. Apart from being gold, it was a typical slave chain, with a sturdy padlock keeping it in place and four rings for attaching other restraints. Naked to the waist, Steven displayed his trim body to Alan showing off his smooth skin, and developing pecs. His stomach muscles were firm surrounding a nice indented navel. His smooth legs also showed finely shaped and strengthening muscles. During Steven's headlong rush, Alan had caught sight of his rapidly maturing cock and hairless balls beneath the tunic.

Over the millennia styles from all over the Empire and beyond have been accepted. If a young man walked through the centre of town wearing jeans, t-shirt and baseball cap while his companion wore a toga, no one would pay much attention. If they went to a theatre they would be shown to the worst seats. If their clothes had red stripes or piping then they would be shown to the best seats reserved for Senators and the like. Other colours show different status. Gold is used purely for decoration.

Slave's still usually wear the traditional tunic. It could have an owners emblem and some colouring but the background colour has to be clearly shown as brown or grey. Other simple styles are acceptable but the tunic stays the most popular. Nudity is acceptable for males especially where sport is involved but people tend to be dressed to show their status especially since slaves can be kept naked at all times. Women, of course, have to be modestly dressed at all times in public.

With the imposing chain around his neck and fine quality tunic, Steven looked like a valued slave who belonged to a wealthy and powerful owner. Harold appeared at the noise and looked sternly at the boys.

"Into my study please," he commanded.

As they stood nervously in front of his desk Harold asked, "Alan, if you came down the stairs like that at the office, what would happen?"

"I'd probably get a beating, sir." Alan replied nervously.

"It was me, not Alan." said Steven equally nervous.

"I know it was you, just as I know it was you who just interrupted me. I warned you last night that when any of you boys represent the House of Sparta you would be treated accordingly, didn't I?"

"Yes Dad." Steven looked at his father waiting for him, then continued, "I mean, yes sir."

"Fetch the tawse."

Steven's eyes widened with shock but obeyed his father. It was almost compulsory for a father to have one of these implements as a sign of his authority. The argument about beating the children of free men had raged for 2000 years. There was still a wide range of opinion and many fathers used it freely but Harold had never used his before.

"Now bend over that chair."

Pulling Steven's tunic up to expose his bare backside Harold laid three heavy strokes across Steven's buttocks.

"That was for the noise on the stairs."

He then struck three more times on Steven's reddening and bruising flesh.

"And those are for interrupting me."

Harold was proud to note that although Steven was in tears he hadn't begged for the punishment to stop.

"Stand up and listen to me."

Steven obeyed though he found it hard to concentrate. He was surreptitiously rubbing his injuries trying to make the pain subside.

"Tomorrow, when you take Flavius to school you may have the same problem I just had. I didn't want to beat my son any more than you may want to beat your friend but you can't make any exceptions. If you do, the whole scheme could fail. Do you understand?"

"Yes sir. If we don't take it seriously, no one else will."

"Exactly. You can change your mind if you want. We'll sort something out but when you're dressed like that or at the House don't expect any favours."

"Yes sir. I understand sir. It just takes some getting used to."

"Tell me about it." retorted Alan without thinking. All the colour drained from his face and he looked at Harold in utter terror.

Harold smiled. "When we get to the House, there are just three ranks. Adults, guests and boys. Unless you are invited to join the House of Sparta you will be treated like a guest. You may behave like one."

"Yes sir. I understand."

"I doubt it but it's going to be a busy night so we had better get going. Both of you wait by the front door."

"What a fine entourage you have tonight, my dear," said Lyllia as she arrived to see her husband off. "I don't know why Steven must appear like this but I can't argue with the Emperor, can I."

If she noticed Steven's pain she did not acknowledge it. Kissing Steven on the forehead she said, "Just be careful and make us even more proud of you."

"And you," she continued kissing Alan in a similar fashion, "Look after my men."

While Steven was embarrassed at his Mother's fussing, Alan thought the brief show of affection was the most wonderful moment since his enslavement. He was still glowing inside as he got into the car wondering what the night had install for him.

Chapter 3

Like many first meetings the night was one of nervousness and uncertainty. Harold was flustered when Flavius took his coat and then showed him to his seat. Hans, the slave who had served them at the earlier meeting, watched Flavius carefully as he showed Alan to another seat and asked him if he'd like a drink.

Alan looked nervously at Harold who shrugged, "Like I said, once you're through that door the rules are different. I suggest you enjoy it while you can."

As other adults arrived Alan could not stay seated. Being told he was a guest and believing it were two different things. He compromised by standing against a wall, holding his drink and trying to stay inconspicuous as he watched the proceedings.

Matthew, the Majordomo, arrived next. Alan did not know him but recognised him as a valued slave. He noticed the slave boys stiffen up and treat him very respectfully. After he was seated he called the senior boy over and the man seemed to be asking the boy questions until the the boy smiled, said something which to Alan seemed like 'Thank you, sir' then bowed and carried on his business.

Alan recognised another visitor as an Imperial Magistrate from his clothes. He nodded briefly to the seated slave then to Harold and to Alan's terror, he gave Alan the same curt nod though he also had an appreciative smile on his face as he admired Alan's body.

Germanicus had loved his wife who had recently died, had been on excellent terms with a couple of local prostitutes as well as having a handsome slave boy around. When his wife had died after a long illness his interest in women seemed to wane. As Germanicus put it, he had never sought to replace his wife, just give her some peace and quiet. Now he was uncomfortable acting the role of the eligible bachelor but his interest in boys had increased proportionately.

Juan arrived looking almost as nervous as Alan. Seeing Matthew he quickly sat down beside him trying to become invisible. While Alan was watching Juan, the junior serving boy approached him to take his empty glass.

Titus was the last to arrive. He looked around the room then came and stood beside Alan.

"You look as if you want the floor to open and swallow you up." Titus said by way of greeting.

"Yes sir," Alan replied shyly.

"Don't worry! I've been taking a battering from my wife and sister in law for consenting to all this. I'd rather have you sucking my cock for some relaxation than stand here being polite. Let's both make the best of it."

Greatly daring, Alan grinned and replied, "If your cock is as big as the rest of you I'd be happy to just stand here."

Titus roared with laughter making everyone look at them

"Come on," he said, "We'll sit over there."

Titus led the way to a big armchair and flopped down onto it bidding Alan to sit between his legs. Wrapping his arms around Alan he pulled him back so that the boy was resting against his chest.

"Gentlemen and guest," Hans said looking at Alan who blushed furiously, "May we begin the business of the evening?"

As the room quietened down he continued, "It has been suggested that in view of the difference of ranks it would be better if we only used first names. Boys will, of course, continue to speak to adults with proper respect. Does anyone object?

No one spoke so Hans continued, "Germanicus has also suggested that boys be naked and only the head boy be allowed a tunic as a badge of his rank."

Hans continued with a grin on his face, "I have no objections but does anyone else?"

At Hans command Steven and Flavius dropped their tunics. Everyone else stared at their bruised and battered backsides.

"As you can see, it has already been necessary to punish these boys. Flavius was punished for rudeness to a guest and Steven for failing to show proper decorum.

Hans was enjoying himself. He had known Flavius since they were toddlers and had got into many scrapes together. Flavius had often shouldered all the blame for their escapades knowing how severely Hans could be punished. Hans trusted Flavius completely and they had talked about the House of Sparta many times. Hans was a little nervous with his role but knew he had Flavius' full support.

"That's my nephew learning when to keep quiet," Titus whispered to Alan, "Interesting discipline for the Provincial Governor, isn't it?"

"You're joking," Alan gasped, "He was serving me drinks just now. I was wondering if I'd get the chance to fuck him."

Alan turned deep red and clasped his hand to his mouth as he realised what he had just said. It did not help that the Magistrate who was sitting next to him, had overheard him and chuckled. Titus let out another of his roars of laughter. Flavius and Steven had heard him as well and were desperately trying to keep straight faces.

"I regret this is a business evening," Hans said trying as hard as the others not to laugh, "I'm afraid there won't be much time for social events."

Alan was mortified to realise that just about everyone had heard him and he would have fled from the room if Titus had not kept hold of him.

"If everyone is ready then may we move onto the next item of business. It's been proposed that another boy join the House of Sparta. Alan would you stand up please?"

In another world Hans would have been working in show business.

Alan glanced frantically at Harold and as he nodded encouragingly Alan looked round at Titus who released his arms but held his hips, gently pushing him to his feet.

"Your Master in the outside world says that you wish to learn and study even if it means being punished. Is that correct?"

Alan was becoming more and more frightened. He was sure that it was all leading up to some dreadful consequences for him. He was just about able to nod his head in agreement.

"As you have seen the House of Sparta demands high levels of discipline." Hans continued, "If you joined, you would have to accept that discipline. Do you understand?"

"Yes sir," Alan said quietly. He still was not sure where it was leading but it did not seem as bad.

"One of the goals of the House of Sparta is to improve education throughout the Empire. If you joined you would be expected to help in that goal and set an example by obtaining the best education possible. Do you understand?"

"Oh yes sir," Alan answered, "I'd like that more than anything."

"Then would you like to join the House of Sparta."

Suddenly Alan looked miserable again.

"I'd like to join, sir," he said, "but what about my owner sir?"

"That's all right." Harold said, "It is your choice."

"Yes please, sir," Alan whispered.

Leaving Steven to serve the adults, Hans shepherded Flavius and Alan out of the the room. Germanicus appreciated being served by a naked boy more than any of the others and did not waste the chance to feel Steven's cock and balls.

Steven looked nervously at his father who was watching. Harold did not respond but turned away to speak with Juan.

When Steven attended Titus he felt as if he was being sized up like a piece of meat. Steven noticed a grudging nod of approval which pleased him.

Juan was still too nervous to relax in spite of Harold's encouragement and huddled back in his chair as soon as he took his drink.

Harold smiled and looked approvingly at his son. He was pleased to see that Steven was growing into a handsome young man. Harold had only just started to think about his son in a sexual way and there was something definitely enticing about the boy's butt cheeks.

Steven was most uncomfortable serving Matthew who watched him without showing any expression. He felt sloppy and idle under the Majordomo's appraising stare. He was almost certain that Matthew would give Hans a bad report which would result in a severe punishment.

Alan, on the other hand, was enjoying himself. He was back in a world he understood and he was able to talk to the other boys freely. He did not fully understand why Flavius was being treated like a slave but just accepted it. While Hans fetched the gold chain and fitted it to Alan's neck the boy's chatted.

"You're a hit with my Uncle," Flavius said, "He's not usually into boys."

"I'm sorry about that thing about fucking you, sir." Alan replied. "He took me by surprise when he told me who you were."

"You don't have to call me sir in here. Do you know where we are?"

"The Governor's Palace?" Alan replied uncertainly.

"Sorry. I didn't make myself clear. You've seen the Palace. It's shaped like an 'H', right?

Alan nodded, still unsure.

"The main entrance is in the cross bar, isn't it?" he asked.

"That's right. We're on the top floor of one of the verticals. The front right wing if you want it's name. My great great grandfather built that private entrance and stairs and he put the door at the other end of that corridor to close it off from the rest of the house."

Alan nodded again, confidently this time understanding Flavius' description.

"He then converted all the rooms into a single suite with the entrance in the middle of main corridor. That's why the rooms tend to be long narrow."

"Because of the second corridor inside the suite." Alan added.

"That's right! Great great grandfather liked to entertain prostitutes. They could use this suite without involving the rest of the house."

"And you're doing the same but you're using it as some sort of club house."

"You catch on fast." Flavius said, "Mr Cirenson said you were bright. Once inside this suite, there are only three ranks. Boys, guests and adults. As far as possible the boys are going to run the place"

"I was a guest, now I'm a boy."

Flavius nodded, "If I go into the rest of the palace and put on my clothes I am Flavius Aulus, Provincial Governor and representative of his Imperial Majesty. In here or if I'm just wearing the tunic I'm just the slave boy Flavius who can beat you up for wanting to fuck me."

Flavius had noticed that Hans had disappeared on some errand so he grabbed Alan and wrestled him to the ground. Alan squealed with laughter as Flavius tickled him mercilessly.

"Now who's going to fuck who?" Flavius laughed.

"That's cheating. I wasn't ready," Alan giggled, "I'm gonna fuck you."

Flavius' tickling stopped as he arched his back in pain from the lash of Hans' tawse.

"You might have learnt something from this afternoon but there's people to serve." Hans said angrily, "I don't want Matthew thinking I can't run this place. Get out there and look after the adults.

Flavius had just endured one of the worst days of his life entertaining relatives and family friends who called to offer their sympathies. Both Flavius and his mother knew that most did not care whether his father was dead or alive. They were there in the hope that they would prosper more in the new regime.

At first Julia had been scandalised at the idea of the House of Sparta but so many people had complimented her on having a son who understood the ideas of discipline, duty and service that she began to think twice about it. She was not ready to publicly change her position yet and so, in between entertaining visitors Julia nagged Flavius about 'cavorting with slaves'.

It got worse for Flavius when Titus' wife, Octavia, and children joined them for the afternoon. Titus had been under pressure to marry and he had been infatuated by his future wife's beauty. She was still beautiful even after having produced two sons who were now thirteen and sixteen years old and a daughter of nine. The problem was, her beauty truly was only skin deep.

She made it clear that she thought her husband was a stupid waster who would never amount to anything and that she only tolerated him out of wifely duty. The children took after their mother and when they were together they adopted an air of disdain and contempt for everyone and everything that could not bring them social advantage.

The conversation quickly turned to the House of Sparta.

"I'm sure my husband thought he was doing the right thing in encouraging slaves and plebs." Octavia said, "It's just unfortunate that he hasn't tried as hard to advance himself and his family. Now this. The House of Aulus will become a laughing stock. Must you flaunt that ridiculous chain, Flavius?"

"I do so agree." Julia replied not giving Flavius a chance to reply, "Flavius has spent too much time with that boy Hans but his father would insist that he needed a companion."

"If Titus had taken his chance to act as protector he might have straightened your son out," Octavia said, "but as usual he's deferred to the lower classes."

Flavius might have tried to point out that not only an Imperial Magistrate but the Emperor himself were part of the scheme. It would not have given him much peace if he had. Julia might be warming to the idea of the House of Sparta but she only wanted the sons of the best families to join while Octavia was extremely jealous that her sons were not invited to join.

Flavius was still grief-stricken with the loss of his father and so, coupled with the stresses of the day, was in a bad way and close to tears by the time Titus arrived.

"I need to speak to you, nephew," he said, "Come with me."

He led the way to the House of Sparta suite and marched in.

"Hans," he roared as he entered, "Get your butt here now."

"Help your Master undress, then take the boy through to the gym." Titus ordered, "Open all the windows and get some air into his lungs. He needs physical release. Do what you have to."

Flavius had not been totally accurate about his great great grandfather's interest in prostitutes. The details were not that important except that Great Great Grandfather liked his girls to perform and entertain him and so he had installed a fully equipped gymnasium. Some of the equipment, various chains, securing eyes and cupboards full of torture implements showed that the entertainments were a bit extreme but nearly all of the girls recovered and on a good night they could leave extremely rich.

Both boys could see that Titus was in a bad mood and did not feel inclined to argue even though Flavius just wanted to disappear into his room and be alone for a while.

Hans used the intercom to summons a boy of about Flavius' size and build and took them through to the gym.

"Listen John, " Hans said, "In this part of the building you may refuse an order without being punished but I would like your help."

"Yes sir," John replied.

Hans shrugged. He was holding a rope. He stood the boys against a wall and made them run the length of the gym touching the far wall and running back. Hans stood in the middle and as they passed him he took a swing at the slower boy with the rope.

Flavius' softer life began to show as he slowed and found himself on the receiving end of more and more blows. Finally he dropped gasping for air.

"Stand up," Hans snapped, "Both of you line up against the wall again.

Hans had noticed Titus standing at the door watching and his sense of dramatics surfaced.

"You have a choice boy," Hans said, "You can suck the winners cock or you can request another challenge."

Flavius stared at Hans then at his Uncle Titus. They both stared impassively back at him.

"How does it work if I win the next challenge?"

"I asked you a question. You answer it. You do not ask a question of your own. You will be punished for that." Hans replied, "Now do you give up or do you want another challenge?"

Flavius smiled quietly to himself and felt his cock begin to harden. The tensions of the day were oozing away as he faced the physical challenges.

"I'll take another challenge," Flavius replied, adding sir after a long enough pause to be insolent.

Hans was not to be goaded. They played a Simon Says game. Flavius won it easily. He was quick-witted enough to remain still unless the command started with Simon Says. John was so used to obeying orders he obeyed everything automatically.

"That's one each." Hans said glancing at their cocks, "You both look as though you'd like a bit of fun so we'll let the last challenge decide who has it. We'll make it a wrestling match and the loser gets fucked by the winner."

Hans looked at Flavius who realised he had been set up. Wrestling was popular amongst the young slaves and it was military enough to be an acceptable sport with all classes. As with the running, John's tougher life would give him an edge.

"If you call anyone sir you will do it respectfully and mean it," Hans said.

"Yes sir," Flavius replied meekly.

On Hans instructions Flavius and John faced each other and the fight began. At the first contact Flavius moved fast and John found himself in a neck lock. Flavius rubbed his cock against John's arse briefly before pushing him away. They grappled each other again and Flavius succeeded in getting John in a bear hug leaving him gasping for breath.

Hans had not realised that John would have one great weakness. He'd had time to realize he was competing against his Master. The running race had been easy enough and they had raced like that before, though without the rope. Things had changed when Hans had explained the prizes.

The idea that he could penetrate his owner was appalling and there was no way he could do it. In short, he did not want to win the wrestling.

Flavius was not aware of any of this at first. He was just happy being able to take his frustrations out on someone and was grinding his cock into John's chest as he sprawled across the boy pinioning his arms and shoulders to the ground.

Hans brought the one sided competition to a halt and invited Flavius to take his prize. Flavius looked at John and shook his head.

"You didn't try to fight me." Flavius said, "Why not?"

"I would have won, Master." John replied, "I knew I shouldn't fuck my owner."

"I may have chosen to suck you after the the running."

"I didn't know what the prize was and I'm sorry for winning, Master." John replied.

"So the only competition you tried to win was the first race?"

"Yes Master."

"That means the second two challenges don't count and you're the winner." Flavius said, "Unless you'd like another wrestling match where the loser has to fuck the winner?"

John was almost in physical pain as he tried to work out how to reply. Flavius was obviously enjoying teasing John.

Titus turned quietly to Hans.

"Flavius seems to have recovered his spirits," he said, "I think I'll indulge in a little R & R myself. There's a good high class prostitute who doesn't live too far away. I think I'll pay her a visit. If anyone asks, Flavius and I are working on vital provincial affairs and can't be disturbed."

While Titus had been talking, John stood nervously unable to decide how to answer. Hans had thought that John might be a suitable candidate for the House of Sparta but it was obvious that he was far too shy to stand up for himself.

"That's enough teasing, Flavius," Hans said, "You forget John is a guest. Get in front of him and kneel."

Flavius felt an excited tingling in his groin as he knelt with his face inches from John's cock.

"Now John," Hans continued, "If your Master was to ask you what you wanted more than anything what would you say?"

"That I'd like to be apprenticed to the gardener." John replied immediately. "I'd like to learn how to look after town gardens because there's a demand gardeners who can do that."

"If you ever got your freedom, you'd have a trade. Is that it?" said Hans

"Yes sir."

Flavius felt deflated. He just had to lean forward to take John's cock in his mouth and the slave wanted to talk about gardens.

"Is that all," Hans asked.

"Yes sir."

Hans gave up. Even when it was being so blatantly offered John would not adopt a dominant role with Flavius. Hans gently led John away to bathe and get dressed before escorting him out of the apartment leaving Flavius kneeling there feeling a bit stupid. He had expected some sort of sexual adventure with John and it was something of a shock to discover that even his innate sexiness was not enough to overcome John's reserve.

When Hans returned he was holding a tawse. The sight of it made Flavius a little nervous but it excited him as well causing his cock to swell and point upwards.

Unlike John, Hans was more than comfortable with his role of head boy.

"In here you are just a slave boy," Hans said, "You will not speak rudely to me, to guests or adults. Neither will you tease guests or do anything to make them uncomfortable."

Flavius just knelt there debating whether to try to explain that he had been trying to get a response out of John.

"Maybe you were trying to get him to react," Hans continued, "but you once said that you would like to leave Flavius Aulus with your formal clothes and just be Flavius the boy. Flavius the boy must remember his manners before everything else. Now bend over that bench."

Flavius could not help it. He yelled then cried as the blows landed on his arse. The agony seemed unbearable but as he bucked and squirmed against the assault he could not avoid rubbing his cock and, briefly, the ecstasy, as he shot his load between the bench and his stomach, made the pain seem worthwhile.

Hans knew what had happened as he dropped his tunic and pressed his cock at Flavius' cherry. Wondering what John would make of his Master being penetrated by a mere slave Hans thrust into Flavius. It was not the first time that he had entered Flavius but it was the first time he had taken the initiative.

The pain of the beating had dampened the force of Flavius' first eruption and as his body adapted to Hans' firm and steady thrusts Flavius felt himself tensing again. The extra pressure as Flavius squeezed down on Hans' cock was enough send Hans over the edge as he his thrusts became convulsive and urgent. In his turn the demanding rubbing of his prostrate sent Flavius over the edge completely draining his balls of their stored up load.

Hans pulled Flavius to a chair and down onto his lap where they promptly fell asleep until shortly before Harold, Steven and Alan arrived.

There was a phrase that Flavius had come to hate; 'and you the Governor's son'. It appeared in just about any telling off he had ever received, no matter how slight the misdemeanour. It was as if he had been expected to avoid all mischief and mistakes simply because of his father's position.

He'd managed the first couple of days without someone saying, 'and you the Governor' but he was sure that his mother was dying for the opportunity.

Misbehaving in the House of Sparta was different. Flavius did not like being whipped but it was better than a guilty conscience for embarrassing the House of Aulus. As the blood had surged through his veins to handle the beating that afternoon, it had also flowed into his cock intensifying the feelings emanating from there.

As with the blow he received later in the evening because of his game with Alan, simple mischief met with a simple response and it made a pleasurable contrast to the polite stuffiness of his formal life.

The gathering had heard his brief game with Alan and heard the crack as Hans' blow had landed. As he re-entered the saloon where the everyone was assembled he was aware of being watched. The new welt across his back was clearly visible as he took over Steven's task of serving the adults and as he moved around the room he seemed to receive looks of approval for accepting the discipline without complaint. He enjoyed earning the respect of people as himself, a boy, rather than the Governor or the Governor's son

He would avoid another beating if he could but if it did happen the experience would have it's thrills and rewards to compensate.

The meeting continued. The boys, except for Alan, sat on the floor. Somehow it seemed natural for Alan to continue sitting on Titus' lap. Those that knew Titus knew that he was most definitely interested in the female of the species and had never shown an interest in male company. They were surprised to see Titus' hand resting on Alan's thigh then moving further up to rest on Alan's balls.

After Hans and Flavius had explained why the other possible recruit, John, had not been proposed the discussion turned to dealing with matters until things could settle down after Flavius' father's funeral.

Rome had adopted the seven day week centuries ago and the days of Saturn, the god of the harvest, and the Sun were regarded as holidays where citizens could relax in the fresh air and spend time in the country.

Tomorrow would be Friday, the last working day. The reception that Flavius had promised was set for that night.

Titus suggested that Flavius go to school the next day on a trial run. He did not mention that it would be better to give Flavius a rest from his female relatives.

Steven was to stay with Flavius that night. After resisting Alan's pleading looks for as long as he could, Harold relented and allowed him to stay with strict instructions that he had to be at the office an hour before it opened to help the other slaves.

The sleeping quarters for the boys were, appropriately for the House of Sparta, spartan. It was a windowless room with mattresses on the floor. The nearest thing to decoration was an alarm clock hanging by a piece of string from a hook. Steven and Flavius looked at the mattresses with some dismay while Hans and Alan were just glad they were not sleeping on the bare floor.

Flavius and Alan had both had emotional days. They were tired and somehow found themselves laying between Hans and Steven. Hans made them all settle down to get some sleep and the others had learned that Hans was to be obeyed.

During the course of the night teenage hormones also had to be obeyed. It would be difficult to record who wanked who and who sucked who or even who offered themselves up for penetration. Possibly the boys did not wake up enough to know and in the dark room they did not really care. What was certain was that when they awoke fully the next morning, giggling at the impossible tangle of arms and legs, they were content, relaxed and feeling that they knew each other a lot better than the night before.

Chapter 4

Flavius was still devastated by the loss of his father and although there were times when he needed be alone and weep, it was decided he begin school again. Even without the controversy about his new status it would be an unsettling time until his father's funeral and no one would expect him to be at his best. Protocol demanded that Flavius senior should lie in state for a week.

Friday night there would be the reception that Flavius had promised and which Matthew, the majordomo had been busily organising. Whatever faults Flavius' mother might have she saw the reception as the time when the new order in the House of Aulus would start establishing itself.

As well as being surprised at some of the favourable comments she had heard about her son's understanding of discipline and service she had been impressed by the way Flavius was handling events. She might disapprove of changing the school system but since it had the Emperor's blessing she saw it as a stepping stone to Rome and so, her attitude to the House of Sparta continued to change.

Much to his surprise, Matthew found Julia to be a willing partner in preparing the reception even though the boys in the House of Sparta were going to be involved in the proceedings.

Hans had been Flavius Aulus' body slave. When they were in the main part of the palace that was still his role. As his father had approached the end Flavius had slept spooned up against the older boy while Hans' tenderly took care of Flavius' needs.

However, that morning after the House of Sparta's inaugural meeting, Hans was most clearly in charge as they got ready for the day. When Flavius, Steven and Alan lined up for inspection just before they left, all three boys kept a nervous eye on the tawse in Hans' hand.

Steven was in his normal school clothes while Flavius and Alan wore the tunics they had worn the previous night.

"In future you act as master from the moment you wake up," Hans said to Steven, "You'll do for today but these two should have brushed your shoes and your jacket. I expect you to set the standards but, considering they had to be sent round by courier, it's not a bad turnout."

As Steven bent to pick up his bag, Hans coughed discretely and looked at Flavius who got the message and grabbed both school bags.

It was a difficult walk for all three boys. Alan was uncomfortable being in the street and away from the office. He was also nervous at the reception he would receive from the other slaves and staff.

Flavius was unused to walking behind Steven. His status as Governor's son meant that most walked behind him except in the most informal situations. It was awkward carrying two bags. He was well enough known to be recognised and everyone seemed to be staring at him in his new role.

Steven at the head of the little group also felt that the entire world was staring at him. He felt as if he could be arrested at any moment for impersonating a Senator.

It got worse after they dropped Alan at the office in time to greet Harold and got closer to the school. Steven's friends were too scared to get involved while the higher class students looked with open hostility at the way Flavius was apparently degrading himself.

Steven could well have been beaten up but stories that there was Imperial involvement prevented any attack. Steven would have lost his nerve and fled if he had not been equally bound by the Imperial Edict.

The school authorities had received two messages. One from the Governor's palace saying that Flavius Aulus would not be returning and a second to say that in future Steven Cirenson would be attended by a slave.

The silence was almost like physical wall when they entered the classroom.

"Not there," Steven said quietly as Flavius went to take his usual place, "Unpack my bag then go and sit at the back."

"I'm sorry sir. I forgot," Flavius replied. He alone had detected the the tremor in Steven's voice.

"Take the cane and put it on your desk to remind you." Steven commanded more confidently.

Flavius had heard how Harold had introduced House of Sparta discipline to Steven and how Steven was expected to be equally strict with him. Like Harold, his father had never used corporal punishment and he had not enjoyed his first experiences from Hans. The idea of being punished in public scared him.

The front rows of desks were reserved for the sons of nobles. The chairs were like luxurious office chairs. They were not expected to stand when the teacher entered and discipline could only be administered by their fathers.

Steven sat in one of the middle rows. The furniture was more functional and less comfortable. Punishments could be awarded and the parents notified. The boys were expected to stand respectfully whenever an adult entered.

The school was a little more tolerant of teaching the lower classes so instead of relegating them to the floor, Flavius found himself to the back of the room. Long wooden planks served as seats and tables. Punishment was arbitrary and was inflicted for the least sign of disrespect to anyone including other students.

A further distinction between the stratum of students was in the marking of work. A piece of work would be awarded a distinction if presented from the front, a pass from the middle and a fail from the back.

The system deterred students from the lower classes from even going to school and slaves only attended to serve their master's son as Flavius was apparently doing. Discipline was maintained more by the front rows being expected to set a good example than anything else.

The first lesson of the day was philosophy one of the lessons most likely to be affected by Flavius' challenge to the system.

The front rows would discuss or debate matters affecting the empire while while the rest would listen to the wisdom of their betters. It was more about politics than philosophy but the title gave the class more academic standing.

The teacher was Marius Diollo a conservative man who disliked the idea of the lower orders even being in the class. He was almost obsequious as he accepted the greetings of the front rows barely glancing at the rest of the before waving them to sit.

"It's sad that his new duties prevents our esteemed Governor from attending any more." he said oblivious to the muffled giggles from the students before picking up his cane and continuing, "Where's the new boy. He may as well learn his true position in this class."

Flavius stood nervously and then desperately tried stifle his own giggles as the look on Mr Diollo's face changed from resigned contempt at a new slave in his class to bewilderment and near panic as he recognised Flavius.

"What's the meaning of this. Surely you're not playing pranks at a time like this. Please show some respect for your father, get properly dressed and take your rightful position."

"This is my proper position, sir." Flavius replied, "I'm here as Steven Cirenson's slave. Flavius Aulus, Governor of this province, does not want to bring the authority of his office into your classroom, sir,"

"That is very considerate of you Your Excellency but you go too far. I nearly caned you as a slave."

"Excuse me sir," Steven said, standing respectfully, "but I must insist that you don't show my slave any favours. I would get into trouble with my father if he had to apologise to the Emperor."

"This is ridiculous." Mr. Diollo snapped, "You're just the son of a clerk. Why should the Emperor be concerned with your father?"

"Officially His Excellency is is at the palace. If he should choose to leave unofficially, incognito and with the Emperor's approval I wouldn't dare to challenge him. That boy is to be treated as a slave and if you don't cane him as you usually do then I'll do it during recess."

Steven wanted to turn round to look to Flavius for support but no master could do that. It may be Flavius' scheme but it was his responsibility to carry it through the first challenge.

Marius Diollo was at a complete loss. The staff knew that there was terrific pressure to reform the education system and that Flavius was going to make some gesture as his Imperial service. Some of them supported it but the old guard such as Mr. Diollo had expected to be able to ride out the campaign and carry on as usual but he now found himself in the front line defending his position against an increasingly powerful attack.

The rest of the class were thoroughly enjoying themselves. Mr. Diollo was not a popular teacher, not even with the front rows. He was just too much of a crawler and a creep. Whatever the bigger picture they were enjoying seeing him brought down.

Normally Steven would have found himself at the wrong end of Mr. Diollo's cane for his intervention but mention of Imperial support rattled the teacher.

"Steven is right........" Flavius began

"Be quiet." Steven and Mr. Diollo snapped together. Mr Diollo spoke without thinking trying to stop the boys ganging up on him and forgetting who he was speaking to while Steven was making sure that Flavius continued to act as a slave.

Both were visibly surprised at the moment of agreement to the noisy amusement of the class.

"I cannot continue with you challenging the proper order like this. You, boy. Go and fetch the headmaster."

The boy was in the front row and it was the first time that Mr. Diollo had spoken sharply to the son of a noble. The startled boy obeyed without question.

The Headmaster was one of those men who naturally commanded respect. Tall, well proportioned and with greying hair and never visibly excited no matter what pandemonium was being generated around him.

Even the front rows thought it normal to stand for him. Once all the boys were seated he was told what had happened.

"I think the Palace could have warned me of the Governor's plans." he said, "We could have made suitable arrangements. You boy, stand up."

Flavius obeyed, standing smartly at attention.

"I'll respect the Governor's wish to be incognito. I'll refer to him as if he's a separate person and I assume you're fully aware of his plans."

"Yes sir," Flavius replied, "I know what he's thinking."

"Good! So why wasn't I informed of this protest?"

"It's not a protest, sir. The Governor is committed to his service until he turns twenty one. I understand that the Emperor and the Board of Guardians believe that any discussion would have given bureaucrats the chance to dilute the plan. The Governor is sorry if you've been inconvenienced, sir."

"Thank the Governor when you see him and I take their point about interference. I had a letter from the Education Department today. I'm invited to apply for a number of grants related to integrating the various social classes into a single stream. There's generous compensation for setting up the program. I take it that it's not a coincidence and even the Governor and his peers will benefit from the improved facilities. Interference can work in both directions, don't you think?"

Flavius smiled, "Yes sir, The Governor would like to talk to you about it at the reception tonight if you're able to attend."

"Unfortunately mere teachers don't receive invitations to such events. I'm surprised you forgot that."

"I didn't forget, sir. You are involved with the completion of His Excellency's Imperial Service. That makes you eligible to attend. His car and a servant will be at your disposal to deal with any question of invitation if you and your wife are available at such short notice."

"Thank the Governor and tell him that I look forward to speaking to him directly. Mr Diollo, may I request that you end your practice of caning new slaves in this class immediately?"

"And am I also expected to listen to the ramblings of slaves during our discussions?" Mr. Diollo asked.

"It seems that the Provincial Governor demands it," the Headmaster replied, "and His Imperial Majesty will be aware of anyone who obstructs him."

Mr. Diollo remained silent for a time before saying, "I think it's time I retired. I have no wish to be involved in destroying the social order that has served the Empire so well."

"This is not the place to make major decisions, Mr Diollo." the Headmaster replied, "You're one of the greatest authorities on the origins of our Empire and I'll be sorry to lose you. We'll have the resources to introduce that subject as a major course. Please come to my office and we'll discuss your options."

The next lesson was Maths. The teacher was far more tolerant and argued that mathematical problems could only be right or wrong. Nevertheless the back rows tended to lose more marks for untidiness and bad presentation though from that day onward they seemed to do much neater work.

The rest of the morning droned on without further incident. Teachers avoided any sort of class discussion or any marking of papers; generally avoiding any activity which might get them involved in Flavius' revolution.

Lunch was difficult for Steven. The nobles watched as Flavius dutifully laid out his food then hurried over to the other servants to eat his. Steven ate alone understanding why. It was not the first time he had earned the hostility of the nobles and, yet again, he did not wish to drag his friends into the conflict.

Flavius' cook had insisted that his Master eat properly, no matter what he was doing, and had packed too much of the best food in the larder. Flavius happily shared it all with the other servants making himself very popular.

Football was very popular with the lower classes. All it needed was a ball and space to kick it. There were proper fields and leagues across the Empire and although it was all right to watch the games no noble would be seen playing it seriously. It was something of a test for Flavius when he was asked to join in a game. It was an entertainment for their betters and so it had to be played properly but only slaves put on public performances.

All boys like to kick a ball around and Flavius like many other Nobles had been secretly envious of the slaves' chance for a bit of fun. He only hesitated briefly before joining in.

He might have kicked a ball around with friends in their gardens but it was the first time he had played where the other players took it so seriously and he was completely outclassed. His game finished when he was brought down by a tackle. He hit the ground face down, winded, with a bloody nose and his ankle badly twisted.

If it had been any other player the game would have continued. It was not a particularly hard tackle by the usual standards but Flavius was not the usual slave.

It had happened before to someone's servant so Steven knew he should not rush to Flavius' aid. The Nobles watching the game would have crucified the slave who had injured one of their own. The slave realised this and stood petrified with fear. The other players recovered from their own fear and seeing that no one was coming to Flavius' assistance helped him up. Seeing that he could not play any more, they helped him over to their rest area.

"Nice tackle." Flavius called out to the trembling slave, "I'll be ready for you next time."

The boy collapsed in tears and in his turn, had to be helped over to where Flavius was sitting, to recover. The slave belonged to the school and once lessons were complete would be set to cleaning up. If Flavius had asked, the boy would have been killed without further thought but when he put his arm round the boy to comfort him the incident was over.

The school had a fully equipped bathhouse for most of it's students. The exception of course were the slaves. As it became crowded more and more of the lower ranks were excluded. They made do with shower heads and latrines behind the bath house.

The slave boy nervously suggested that they get cleaned up and helped Flavius over to the slave area. Flavius looked aghast at the sparse amenities so different to the bath house he was used to. It was clean and that was it's only redeeming feature. The slave cleaned the blood off his face before they stripped and stood under the shower.

It would have been an erotic experience if the water had not been so cold. Instead they helped each other get clean as quickly as possible before brushing down their tunics.

Flavius looked his old self and he could almost walk normally when he reported back to Steven.

"Did you enjoy yourself with the slave?" Steven asked.

Flavius grinned.

"No sir. He was too nervous and the water was too cold. We both wanted to get into the sun to dry off."

Steven laughed, "Never mind. You'll be home soon and you'll have your pick of your slaves."

"I wish Mother didn't find excuses to parade slave girls in front of me all time." Flavius said quietly, "I know I'll have to get married and I could really go for some of the girls she's got lined up. I just don't want to get some slave pregnant to prove I'm capable."

The remainder of the day passed without incident and Flavius was fully recovered by the time they got back to the Palace.

Hans insisted that Flavius and Steven rest before the nights activities. Steven was under orders to see that Flavius had everything he wanted and slept with Flavius' cock firmly planted in his arse and Flavius' hand firmly around his own manhood. Hans also insisted that Alan should also rest. Hans was older and had enjoyed a quiet day. He continued getting the House of Sparta ready for the reception.

He suspected that Titus and one or two of the other adults might want a quiet refuge before the night was over.

When he woke the boys he was careful to address Flavius as 'sir'. In a way it was like a game and now it was Flavius' turn to be 'it' while the other two had to do the rushing around helped by a few slaps and blows from Hans. From the the moment he woke, Hans expected Flavius to behave like the Governor while the others attended to his needs.

It was the role he had been raised for and he slipped to it easily. It may seem surprising but his experiences as a slave helped. He did not want to be in trouble with Hans for doing his duty poorly and where he had accepted his own humiliations with good grace he assumed that everyone else would. Alan and Steven understood their roles. Alan was used to being a slave while Steven knew he had to behave to the same standards he had expected from Flavius during the day.

Alan and Steven were still naked when Flavius was finally dressed and ready to join his family and took part in a little ceremony.

Hans knelt in front of Flavius and said, " Your Excellency, I'm at your service."

Steven, then Alan repeated the ritual before Flavius dismissed them and gave them fifteen minutes to get themselves ready. It had steadied Flavius and he was ready to meet his family.

He headed for the the family quarters with the other slaves of Sparta making up his retinue.

It was a grand entrance as Alan and Steven opened the doors for him and he stepped into the lounge.

"At last, Flavius," his mother began irritably.

Flavius remained silent. Hans, Steven and Alan stood dutifully behind him as he raised his hand to show the ring on his finger. It was the one that he had taken from his father on his death and it was the symbol of his position.

Julia looked at the tableau in front of her. Flavius had entered as the Governor and there was nothing in his manner or appearance to suggest anything different. She had no choice but to follow the same protocols and traditions.

She curtsied briefly.

"My apologies. Your Excellency, I'm at your service."

Flavius looked at Titus who took his turn in front of Flavius. He bowed his head briefly before saying, "Your Excellency, I'm at your service."

His wife looked as if she was being dragged to the scaffold as she took her turn. She still had not accepted the new situation and was furious that she was not standing beside her husband while he accepted homage.

Their elder son took after his mother. He was sullen and resentful as he paid his respects. The younger son looked equally sullen until his back was towards his family when he winked cheekily and mouthed, 'Good Luck' before saying the formal line.

Other members of the family who had arrived to attend the reception also paid their respects to the new Governor. Flavius remained quiet and aloof during the ceremony, merely thanking them all for their support at the end.

There are fashions in protocol as in every other human activity. The main theme of the evening was to make Flavius undisputed Provincial Governor and pronounce him head of the House of Aulus. That dated back back to the earliest period of the Empire. At times protocol would have allowed him to be surrounded by bodyguards. Nowadays a token protection was allowed which meant when they made their way to the reception, Flavius led followed immediately by the boys and then the rest of the family.

When he stood on the podium, the Sparta boys stood immediately behind him. Dressed as slaves their role was obviously subservient and they separated Flavius from the rest of the family, again showing him to be undisputed head.

He stood as dignitaries from neighbouring provinces offered their congratulations and the Nobles and dignitaries of his provinces offered their support.

Finally he began his speech. he started by thanking everyone for their support, how he planned to continue the work his father had done, his hopes that the disputes with Scandinavia could be resolved and how he hoped to make the province more prosperous. It was all standard stuff.

After the Board of Guardians had paid homage they had been guided into the Ante-room as had Titus and his headmaster before returning as a group to stand at the front of the hall.

"As you know, until I reach twenty one I am to be trained by a Board of Guardians. They come from all ranks but they have been chosen by the skills they bring to their task. I ask that you all give them due respect for their contribution, not only to my Governorship but, to the Imperial Service I have undertaken.

"That service is to try and stimulate the Education system so that it produces more of the scientists and engineers that the Empire needs. For that reason I would ask that you all show due respect to the Headmaster of the town school which has suddenly found itself at the forefront of the Imperial program."

The noble classes of the Roman Empire were always suspicious of favourites being taken from the lower classes. Although there were now slaves and a mere teacher standing at the front of the hall along with nobles, there were defined boundaries of what was expected. Protocol may have been bent but it had not been broken and if it had Imperial approval the nobles had more to gain by accepting the situation than opposing it.

As the gathering began to socialise Juan, Harold and the Headmaster found themselves being cordially greeted. Titus had chosen to stand with the Board of Guardians rather than with the family which had infuriated his wife while Germanicus Susitus was entitled to stand at the front anyway.

Flavius managed a few words with the Headmaster.

"Thank you for inviting me, Your Excellency." he said, "It's a little overpowering though."

"You should try going to school as a slave." Flavius replied, "Do you approve of the changes?"

"Oh yes! So do most teachers. Have you thought how you're going to encourage other schools?"

Flavius grinned.

"I was the star runner in the 800 metres. Are you going to allow a slave to compete in my place?"

"I see. If I allow one slave then I may as well allow others. If my school breaks ranks then what will the others do? We seem to be at the head of the list for a number of grants and your Uncle is asking about filling a number of apprenticeships in the shipyards. If we succeed then we'll be setting standards other schools will be expected to follow.

"There's one thing though. There's a certain slave who will be expected to keep up with his work and set the standards for the other boys so I'll be keeping a close eye on him."

Flavius swallowed nervously. "He'll do his best, sir."

"Headmaster not sir, Your Excellency." the Headmaster said, "You normally keep to your different roles brilliantly. So do the others. I recognise young Cirenson there. I could do with a slave like him to entertain me. I can say that to Your Excellency about one of your slaves. I would never say it about one of my students."

Flavius grinned, "You should have a body slave as a mark of your new status. You can't have one of the House of Sparta members though but if you see anything else you fancy let me know."

"I don't want one who's too bright though. I'd have to put him through school then I'd lose him."

Julia approached them. "Flavius my dear. Could you come greet Claudina. She's one of my dearest friends and she's got a daughter about your age.

Steven was slightly embarrassed about the Headmaster's comments and at the same time excited. He had never thought about attracting people before. That evening men and women had touched him, apparently by accident but he was not supposed to react. His duty, along with Hans and Alan was to stand dutifully behind Flavius so that he was not crowded. It was the first time he had attended such a gathering so he was content to watch events and listen to the conversations going on around him.

Alan had also been the subject of various gropings and lewd comments. He was more used to it than Steven but Hans had glared at him on more than one occasion to steady him but it was still an amazing experience for both of them.

Flavius' younger cousin, Marcus approached him.

"Having fun, Your Egg-lency." he asked cheekily.

"It'll be better when I have tongue cut out for your rudeness," Flavius retorted, grinning.

"If I tell you something will you protect Mother?"

"I didn't think she needed anyone's protection."

"I know what you mean. If there's trouble will you protect her?"

"I'll do my best. What's wrong?"

Marcus was silent for a while before speaking.

"I wish Mother wouldn't give Father such a hard time. She's always on about how he should be Head of the House of Aulus and how he's such a failure. He's not though, is he? You wouldn't have given him all that extra work if you thought that, would you?

Flavius was having trouble seeing where the boy was leading. He tried to answer but Marcus continued,

"You have a family slave, David. Mother's promised him his freedom but she can't do that, can she? At least not while you're the head."

"What makes you think she promised him his freedom?"

"Do it and when my son takes his rightful place you'll have your freedom." Marcus quoted from memory

"Did she say 'son'?"

"Yes."

"What do you think Hans?" Flavius asked turning to his slave.

"I know David. He's a slimy lazy bastard."

Flavius glanced at General Maximilian and discretely beckoned him over. Without seeming to have a care in the world the general approached Flavius. He spoke affably to anyone who greeted him but hardly broke his step.

"I need to get to my office without attracting attention, General. Any ideas?"

"You were asking about the Battle of Armiens, sir. I could show you on a map."

Flavius turned to the other boys.

He said just loud enough for guests to hear. "I've got a military escort for a while. You can take a break."

Then quietly, " Alan, keep Titus distracted. Hans, fetch Matthew. Steven, stay with me."

Flavius and General Maximilian strolled through the reception towards discussing the battle. Once the General muttered, easy sir, as Flavius nerves got the better of him.

Once in the office, Flavius said apologetically, "Thank you General. I'm sorry but this is an extremely delicate matter and... er....."

"And you'd like me out of the way while you deal with it. Of course sir, I understand."

"Steven, take the General to the House of Sparta and look after him. Make our guest as comfortable as possible."

Matthew arrived as the General and Steven left. Flavius explained the situation.

"It's too soon to act, sir. We've no evidence and we should catch them in the act."

"No! I promised to protect Marcus' mother. If David acts against me then she is implicated in the crime. If no crime is committed then there is nothing against her.

Matthew nodded. "Minor things possibly but they could cause more trouble than they're worth to act upon them. Why the urgency?"

"I don't know what David is supposed to do or when. I'm not used to threats against me."

I understand sir. He's lazy and a troublemaker. I won't have any trouble finding a couple of slaves to take him and put him in solitary confinement. No one else will know and you can deal with him at your leisure."

"Thank you, Matthew. If we're wrong about him I'll find a way to make it up to him but for now, do what's necessary."

As Matthew left Flavius rang through to Steven.

"Tell the General that I'm ready to return to the reception."

"Yes sir," Steven replied sounding a little disappointed.

General Maximilian was as calm as ever but Steven was flushed and something was pushing his tunic outwards. Flavius thought that his nipples seemed pronounced and the surrounding skin had a red tinge.

"Military manoeuvres, General?" Flavius asked.

"Yes sir and if the boy cares to visit my quarters I will finish the campaign."

Flavius looked Steven who nodded.

"I'll see that there's a room available for you tonight. You can resume the invasion as soon as it is convenient."

"The General broke into a rare grin. "Thank you sir."

As they re-entered the reception they separated. Hans and Steven took up their positions as attendants to be joined a moments later by Alan. Flavius' absence had been noticed but no one doubted that it was anything but the General explaining some points of history.

As Flavius circulated around the guests a slave approached nervously. He was in his twenties and Flavius knew that it was one that Matthew trusted completely.

"Matthew says it's done, sir and all's well"

Flavius remained expressionless and dismissed the slave with a flick of his hands. He would reward the loyal slaves later but for now their needs did not exist. He began talking to a minor noble who was delighted to have been singled out and the reception continued.

Octavia was standing beside her husband Titus and their two children when Flavius was first able to speak to her.

"I see you have to drag your slave friends around with you," she said, "I'm surprised you're not dancing with one of them."

"Oh! I've got a boy who'll be dancing and singing for me tomorrow. He's tried to serve you once or twice though I doubt that you remember him. His name's David."

"Why should I remember a slave. I know my rank."

Flavius thought she spoke less certainly than before and noticed that Marcus' brother, Publicus had gone white and was looking anxiously at his mother.

"No reason at all, Aunt." Flavius replied, "I understand that you're taking Publicus on an extended tour of your estates. Are you teaching him about farm management?"

"What's this my dear, "Titus asked, "It's the first I've heard of it."

"I'm sorry, Titus." Octavia replied, "I wanted to tell you myself. I've no idea how Flavius heard about it so soon."

"It's a pity that you'll be leaving before David's performance." Flavius said, "If you wish to leave the reception early to start your preparations I'll not be offended."

"Thank you! That's most considerate. Come Publicus."

"Are you going to tell me what's happening?" thundered Titus, "You've sent my wife away. Why?"

"Easy Uncle." Flavius said as calmly as he could, "What would Aunt Octavia do to control the House of Aulus?"Titus stared at Flavius.

"Uncle, if people see you looking like that they'll think war's been declared."

Titus relaxed and even managed a grin.

Flavius laughed, "It's lucky you're too high born to be an actor. You'd starve to death."

Titus laughed with him. "If you don't tell me what's going on I'll become an assassin and choke it out of you."

"I received intelligence that Aunt Octavia was using one of my slaves to spy on me and was talking about Publicus becoming head of the House."

"Rubbish. Gossip and slander. How could you be so stupid as to believe it?"

"I wasn't sure that I did until I mentioned the slave's name and talked about her trip to the country."

Titus seemed to slump down, suddenly looking very old.

"What happens now?"

"Nothing." Flavius replied, "Apart from my informant everything has been kept within the House of Sparta."

"It's good of you not to publicly disgrace her."

"It's a promise I made," Flavius explained.

Titus looked puzzled then looked at Harold who had seen something was wrong and had been hovering nearby on the pretext of trying to introduce his wife.

"Welcome Mrs Cirenson," Titus said, "If you'll allow me to borrow your husband, I'd like us to get very drunk together."

"Marcus," Flavius said, "Would you be so kind as to escort Mrs Cirenson and help her to keep an eye on those two."

Marcus led off a deeply flattered Mrs Cirenson, grateful to have something to take his mind off events.

"Hans, do you think I can relax a bit now? It's late and guests are already leaving."

Don't you remember what your father did. When your father took his coat off and dismissed his escort it was a sign to start winding up."

"I'm going to sleep all day tomorrow."

"You won't. You have duties as Master Flavius. House of Sparta's got four guests and they'll need looking after as well.

"Four?"

"General Maximilian, Marcus, Your Uncle Titus and Mr Cirenson.

"Marcus?"

"He'll probably feel safer until his mother and brother have left. Since Mr Cirenson has been waylaid by Titus may I arrange a car for Mrs Cirenson?"

As Flavius removed his formal jacket and loosened his clothes, sitting alone at a table, the remaining guests took the hint and began to leave. He watched as General Maximilian and Steven left together and saw Titus being helped out of the room by a couple of beefy slaves followed by Harold being carefully guided by Alan.

His mother approached him.

"What's happened tonight?" she asked, "Why is Octavia rushing off so suddenly?"

"I'll tell you about it later, Mother." Flavius replied, "It's all over for tonight."

"I was proud of you tonight. Your father would have been as well. Octavia's right about the the way you forget your rank and consort with the lower classes but she's a stupid bitch and does some ridiculous things. Whatever she's done done now, you've handled it very discretely and efficiently. I'm impressed. I'll tell that boy Hans that his training is having good results."

"Thanks Mother. I know you don't like the House of Sparta so I appreciate that."

Finally it was all over and Flavius thankfully headed off to bed. For once, all the boys lay down to sleep rather than play and everything was quiet, except for General Maximilian's room though even they slept eventually.

Only David, cramped and uncomfortable in his cage failed to get any rest. He awaited the following day with dread and in the pitch black lost all sense of time. He knew why he had been taken and every sound filled him with dread wondering if they were coming for him at last.

Chapter 5

Everyone except Hans slept late in the House of Sparta that night. All was quiet in the guest rooms so he let Flavius and Alan sleep on. When they were needed they would wake quickly and get about their duties or feel the tawse which Hans always carried.

He would spend the day keeping the apartment running smoothly though he had one remarkable experience.

He was heading through the palace on some errand when he saw Julia, Flavius' mother coming the other way. Normally he just pressed against the wall and she would sweep by without a word. Today she stopped.

"Hello Hans." she said, "How are you today? Not too tired after your efforts yesterday?"

"No My Lady," Hans replied, "Thank you for asking."

"Do you have time to come to my quarters for a few moments? Will your duties permit?"

"Yes, of course My Lady,"

Hans was frightened. The lady Julia just did not behave this way towards slaves. It had to be some cruel game.

When Julia was seated she snapped, "Girl, a drink for the boy." and then to Hans she said, "I'm afraid I can't be as easy with a slave as my son seems to be but please relax."

"Thank you My Lady." Hans replied unable to say more.

"You know what happened between between my son and my sister in law don't you."

Yes My Lady."

"Tell me about it."

"I'm sorry My Lady but Master Flavius has ordered that we should not mention it. May I request that you speak with him about it."

"I could have you flogged until you do tell me."

"Yes, My Lady."

"Oh for God's sake, sit down, boy. You know, I'm beginning to understand what Flavius sees in you and don't say Yes My Lady."

Hans grinned, "Can I say No My Lady."

Julia laughed, "Finish your drink and get about your business. Look after my son and you'll have nothing to fear from me."

Hans left Julia's quarters hardly able to believe what had happened. It was the first time that she had ever treated a slave as a person.

General Maximilian woke next thanks to his military training. He was relaxed and rested and looked fondly at Steven lying beside him. The General was not a cruel man but sometimes he took a boy and used him very roughly indeed. Steven had the the marks and bruises to prove it and he would walk awkwardly for the remainder of the day but as a reward for accepting the General's harshness he had also experienced some of the biggest orgasms of his life. The General gave pleasure as powerfully as he took it and Steven gave up his seed until his cock ached and and he was too exhausted to produce more.

The General had not started out much more cautiously than he would have with one of his adult soldiers but Steven accepted everything without complaint, impressing the General who leant over and kissed Steven gently until the boy woke.

Steven groaned as he stirred and his aching body protested, then groaned again as his body began to react. Steven had already learned not to protest at the Generals ministrations. In fact he enjoyed them.

"Still willing to serve me boy?"

"I'm the General's obedient slave, sir."

Steven yelped at the slap he received and knew he was in for a hard time but he looked forwards to the rewards that would come.

The others only saw him briefly that morning when he was sent to fetch some breakfast. Harold was horrified at the sight of his sons battered body and Hans had to stop him from intervening.

"Steven, No one expects you to be treated like that." he said, "If you wish I'll tell the General that you have other duties."

Steven thought about what the General had promised to do to him and winced as his aching cock stiffened in anticipation.

"No, I'm OK. he replied.

Steven would visit the General whenever he had the opportunity and become known as the General's Boy by the soldiers who served General Maximilian. Some had experienced the General's special brand of love making and the General had a fearsome reputation. No one ever discussed their time with him which only added to his reputation. General's Boy was not a derogatory name, quite the opposite, and the personnel under General Maximilian's command would come to treat Steven with the utmost respect.

Alan and Flavius were woken next. Alan was sent to the kitchen to prepare food while Flavius was allowed to relax.

Hans had laid out informal clothes but they belonged to Flavius Aulus head of the House of Aulus.

Flavius knew why. He had to deal with David. Romans expected loyalty from their slaves and Flavius was no exception. He felt a grim anticipation as he considered the punishments he might inflict. No matter how cruelly or harshly he treated the slave, no one would think badly of him. Indeed, it would weaken his position if he was considered soft.

Alan served him breakfast as he considered his options. He sent for Matthew and told Alan to try and rouse Titus who staggered in holding his head a little later. As always Hans was ready to deal with situation and insisted, as firmly as a slave could, that Titus drink the cure he was offering.

Alan was sent to Marcus' room to wait until the boy woke up. Alan was to keep Marcus occupied and entertained for the remainder of the morning. For once, Alan failed to follow his orders. As soon as he was awake, Marcus insisted on speaking with Titus.

"It was me who told Cousin Flavius about Mother and Publicus." he said as he stood in front of his father.

Titus was quiet for a while before saying, "So it was you who made Flavius promise not to harm her or Publicus."

Marcus nodded.

Titus held out his arms and hugged the sobbing Marcus.

"I want you to stay here for now. Alan will look after you. He might be a slave but he's a good boy and I'd be pleased if you treated him well. Do you understand?"

"I mustn't whip him just to remind him of his place, Father."

"You shouldn't have to whip him at all." Titus replied.

"Mother says you let slaves forget their place and I shouldn't be soft like you."

" Alan knows what's happening. He'll not divulge that knowledge to anyone outside the House of Sparta. You have to trust him as much as you trusted Flavius and that means you have to respect him."

"Yes Father."

"Take care of my son, Alan," Titus said quietly.

"Yes sir," Alan replied, "I'll tell him about the House of Sparta."

Titus nodded, smiling, as he, Flavius and Matthew left for the slave quarters.

When David had finally heard his cage being unlocked his chest tightened with fear until he almost stopped breathing. He was gagged, stripped and, to his surprise, thoroughly cleaned until he was tied spread-eagled to hooks in the floor and ceiling of the interrogation room. His weight was still taken by his feet but he was stretched tight and he was left again until Flavius' little party arrived.

Flavius picked up a metal prod and pressed the button on the handle. The opposite end crackled with electric sparks casting a flickering cold blue light.

He pressed the end against David's thigh and pressed the button again. David screamed into his gag writhing in agony, almost pulling himself off the the floor as he tried to escape.

Flavius removed David's gag and said, "Tell me what I want to know."

"Please Master. I don't know anything."

Flavius moved the prod further up David's thigh and pressed again. David shrieked and threshed about again as the electricity seared through his body.

"Please Master, She threatened to cut my balls off, if I told anyone." David begged.

"That only hurts once. I can do this as often as I like." Flavius said. He spoke quietly and he sounded that much more menacing. He held the prod to David's sac and and pressed the button again.

"Instead of cutting them off, I'll fry them off and I'm losing patience." Flavius said when David had recovered enough to hear him.

She said that if I prove that you're incapable of being the Head of the House of Aulus I'd get my freedom when her son replaced you.

Flavius pressed the button again and David passed out. Smelling salts were kept in the Interrogation room and together with a bucket of cold water thrown over him, David soon revived.

"Start from the beginning and don't leave anything out." Flavius jabbed the button. "I'll let you know if there's anything I don't understand."

David was beaten and told them everything. He was prodded a few more times and it became harder to stop him talking than getting anything out of him. Later Flavius pieced together some of the details David did not know to finish the story.

Matthew had beaten David for laziness and David had been sullen and resentful. Octavia had found him sulking and explained how things would be different if she could run the place. It would be best for Flavius in the long run if he did not make Aulus a laughing stock with his antics. David was to find other slaves who could see the broader picture and who would find a way of sabotaging the nights reception. David was to steal any confidential papers he could find and pass them to Octavia. He was not sure what she would do with them but got the impression that she might make money out of some of them and others would turn up in places which would make Flavius seem irresponsible and careless. Enough had to happen to convince the court that Titus should become Guardian. It could not be one big disaster. They happen but a series of small incidents that showed that Flavius was losing control and the slaves were becoming lazy and careless would be far more effective.

David did not know how she planned to get rid of Titus but Publicus knew better than to challenge his mother so she would effectively have complete control.

"Which slaves agreed to help you?"

"Craig and Ty, Master."

Matthew hurried off to fetch them. When they arrived Flavius had them strip and stand against a wall with their hands behind their heads.

He picked up a heavy cane and swung. David screamed again as the blow landed on his buttocks leaving a bloody line as the welt formed. He struck again and again until the slave's back was red and dripping blood from his shoulders to his knees. Twice David fainted and was revived. Blows landed on David's sides under his armpits, cracking ribs.

Flavius was tiring as he started on David's front but succeeded in drawing blood across David's abdomen. The last couple of blows were across David's cock and balls causing David to faint again. This time Flavius just let him hang.

He turned to Craig and Ty.

"Do you have anything to tell me?"

They had been frightened when they arrived and now they were petrified. Ty just stood unable to move as his his bladder emptied. Flavius managed to jump out of the way just in time.

"Master," Craig said, "We work in the kitchen and David wanted us to do something to the food. He said that Lady Octavia said that it was OK and for your own good really. He made it sound so reasonable. I know how you are doing your Imperial Service and how well you're doing so I knew it was wrong and I did nothing. Neither did Ty."

"You didn't report it either like you should have done." snapped Flavius.

"I tried but Matthew had Lady Julia on his back about the reception. I'm sorry I meant no disrespect, please believe me, Master. I have an appointment to see him this afternoon."

Flavius turned to Matthew.

"It's true, he did try to speak to me yesterday and I was busy. I do have appointment with him this afternoon. I'm sorry, sir but I had no idea."

"And was my Mother on your back, Matthew?"

"She was determined to make the reception a success and was very demanding, sir."

"She was on your back then and you don't have to answer that, Matthew."

"Thank you sir," grinned Matthew.

Flavius turned to Craig. "Take your friend and get him cleaned up. Come back here and clean this place up. I don't think we'll get much work out of Ty today so he can rest in his room."

"Surely you're rewarding them for keeping quiet." Titus asked, "They shouldn't have even considered doing it and told someone immediately."

"If slaves obey me blindly then they would obey Octavia as blindly. These two thought about it and made the right decisions. They were prevented from warning me by the chain of command. I understand that from the House of Sparta."

He turned to the slaves. "Craig, which would you prefer, a night in a brothel or with a rent boy?"

"With Ty sir," Craig replied without thinking.

"That thing says he hasn't stolen anything yet. I don't know if I believe him. Organise a search. If you find anything, I'll see to it that you have a night of luxury with him. If another slave finds anything he can have the same choices as well."

The three slaves were in their twenties. Their diet and lives meant that they were fit and healthy. Each one could snap the neck of a boy like Flavius without thinking about it yet all three were terrified of Flavius in his present mood. The feeling of power that Flavius was experiencing was turning him on like nothing had before.

"There's nothing more we can do until the search is done." Flavius said to Titus and Matthew, "Why don't you go back to the Sparta quarters and wait for me?"

Titus hesitated before heading for the door. He still needed time to come to terms with his wife's treachery but at the same time he wondered what Flavius was up to.

While he was waiting for Craig to return, Flavius stripped. His cock leapt up and almost slapped against his belly as it was freed from the constraints of his clothes, it was so hard.

He stood waiting for Craig to return who stared wide eyed as his master ordered him to kneel down. Craig was used to being fucked and Flavius' boy cock was smaller than the adult cocks he was used to but he yelped with pain as Flavius thrust into him with pure animal lust. It only took a couple more thrusts before Flavius exploded with an intensity he had never felt before. His hips convulsed rather than pushed and he had no control of his body until his balls were drained of every last drop of cum.

Craig vainly tried to accommodate Flavius' wild assault but it proved too much, too wild. He was left sore and uncomfortable while Flavius was left drained emotionally, all the stresses and tensions of the last few days sucked out of him.

Flavius ran some water to clean himself and Craig knelt before him ready to obey him.

"You were in the wrong place at the wrong time," Flavius said with a grin.

Craig grinned back. "No Master. It was a pleasure to serve you."

"So why did you hesitate before seeing Matthew."

"It made sense that you were too young to handle your new position. The rest seemed to follow on until I saw you looking just like your father. David may really have thought he was helping you, Master."

"Do you really believe that?"

"No Master. I suppose not. He was hoping for a reward not trying to serve you. I'm sorry I did something to hurt you, Master. I should be punished."

"Turkeys don't vote for Christmas." Flavius said, "Slaves shouldn't ask to be punished but I'll flog you if it'll make you feel better."

"Thank you sir but no. I'll not rest until I've searched every inch of the grounds and slave quarters. I don't need to be rewarded if I succeed because I'll do my best anyway."

Flavius had been dressing while they had been talking. He had forgotten everything in his moment of lust. Now the acrid smell from Ty's piss mingling with the sweat and blood on David made Flavius feel dirty.

"It's time for us both of us to attend our duties. I meant what I said earlier about rewarding you. At least keep Ty out of the way until I'm finished with that thing. I don't need to scare him any more."

Craig was angry with David. He felt stupid for even half believing that Flavius was incapable. He was furious that he had put Ty in danger. Craig mopped up the floor and unceremoniously threw a bucket of water over David before washing him down. When he was done he put a bucket between David's legs.

"If you have to do anything, try and aim for the bucket." Craig said as he left, "Keep this room fit for the Master to visit."

David was in agony. If he moved to ease one one pain he triggered another. He had trouble breathing and he knew more was to come. He had found a document about troop movements on Flavius' desk when he was cleaning the office. It was amongst some old papers belonging to Flavius' father and was already out of date but it would not have looked good if it had been found in the street.

Slaves sometimes stole food and drink from their masters, even money and were skilled at hiding it. The document was safe against an ordinary search but the search Flavius had ordered was not an ordinary one because he had other slaves helping him. He knew the document would be found.

He was in despair as he tried to bend his legs so that he hung by his arms. It was not an easy way to commit suicide, and he was soon struggling back on his feet, gasping for breath crying at the pain from his broken ribs.

Meanwhile Flavius tried to relax in his office. He sent for the others and together they waited for the results of the search. Marcus sat on his fathers lap and Alan knelt beside them awaiting their orders.

Flavius smiled quietly at the scene. Titus had never shown interest in boys but at that moment he needed their support.

Matthew sat miserably refusing anything Hans tried to serve. He had let Flavius down and had failed to control the slaves. He would not be surprised if Flavius were to sell him.

"Why so glum, Matthew?" Flavius asked.

"I'm sorry I let you down so badly, Master." Matthew replied.

"It's not your fault," Titus said, "How do you think I feel?"

"I don't care who's got the biggest guilt trip." Flavius snapped. "People betrayed us and that's that. If it wasn't for my promise to Marcus, I'd have that bitch Octavia and her brat hanging alongside David."

Flavius calmed down as Titus flinched and Marcus looked as if he about to burst into tears.

"I'm sorry Uncle and I'm sorry Marcus. I shouldn't have said that but they caused this, not you or Matthew."

They waited in silence until Steven finally joined them. He walked with difficulty and he was in pain but there was a contented look about him and he smiled happily as he remembered his time with the General.

His appearance lightened the mood considerably as he endured some light hearted bantering and questions about his experiences with the General. Harold was relieved that Steven was all right and dropped his guard enough to make a crack about Alan's devotion to Titus.

Alan blushed furiously while Marcus looked curiously at his father but even Matthew had relaxed enough to enjoy the lunch that Hans had prepared.

Finally Craig arrived holding the document he had found. He stood, frightened, in front of Flavius' desk.

"Is that all, Craig?" Flavius asked.

"I think so, Master." Craig answered, "but...... er......"

"Speak freely, be disrespectful if you need to be but say what's on your mind. You won't be punished no matter what you say."

"Yes Master. David used to hide in a garden shed if he wanted to skive off work. It was in an old tool box hidden under some junk. The thing is, it had one of those large combination locks and it was new. It looked out of place. That's what made us suspicious.

"I went and asked David about it. I had to point out that he would either tell me or you, Master and he gave me the combination. He said the Lady Octavia had given it to him before your Father died."

"Before?" Flavius asked.

"Yes Master. I wondered about going to the market and asking the iron monger if he remembered anything. Maybe she had bought two"

I don't suppose you've ever used the phone?"

Craig shook his head.

"Steven, take Craig through to the House of Sparta. Treat him like a guest and see what you can discover. You've done well Craig."

"When the boys had left Flavius asked, "Comments anyone?"

"Why does it matter when mother bought the padlock?" Marcus asked.

"Because the whole thing was planned in case I didn't become Guardian," Titus replied, "Your mother is not clever enough to think of contingency plans."

"How about Aunt Julia." Marcus asked.

"No, It wasn't her." Matthew said firmly, "She's clever enough but she was determined that last night's reception succeed. She would have boiled Flavius and me in oil if it had failed."

He paused.

"I'm sorry Master. I forgot my place."

Flavius laughed, "She scares me at times, too. Besides, she'd lose too much status to Octavia if Publicus became Governor."

"Uncle Titus made his move when my father died. It was simple, direct and legal, not devious like this. Besides he's a target as well. Marcus destroyed the plot by telling me otherwise I'd wonder if he wasn't planning on killing his mother and brother as well.

"It's all right. I'm not accusing anyone but explaining why I think there's an outside plot and that means I have to tell the Emperor."

"That's going a bit far, isn't it? I'm not sure that we should bother him with this." Titus said.

"That's what Craig thought, isn't it? He wasn't sure whether to take David seriously. What do you think Matthew?"

"I can see the parallels. Damned if you stir up trouble for no good reason and damned if you keep quiet and allow your master to be attacked."

"You're talking as if Octavia was involved in some bigger plot." Titus said, "I can't believe that."

"I'm sorry, sir," Matthew said, "But I have to say this. I don't think the Lady Octavia is clever enough to plan all this. She probably pushed you into trying to seize the ring but I doubt that she prepared a backup plan beforehand."

"I feel sorry for David in a way. She made it sound reasonable when she talked about the ring and I'm not supposed to be gullible like a slave." Titus said quietly.

"It was reasonable, sir." Matthew said consolingly, "No one could have expected Master Flavius to be such a remarkable young man and you were the obvious Guardian."

At that moment Steven and Craig burst in. Matthew looked angrily at Craig while Hans glared at Steven. They both paled slightly at their appalling manners.

Flavius noticed the little exchange.

"I could forget to behave properly, myself, if there's some good news." he said, "Let's hear it."

"She bought it in a shop near one of her estates." Steven said, "It was about a month ago. The shopkeeper remembered it because he's an ironmongers and it's not the sort of shop great ladies visit. They send their servants."

"How did you track it down?" Titus asked.

"I was chatting to one of her slaves the other day." Craig replied, "He said she'd been holding court there while waiting for the late Master to die. It was how he described it, sir."

"Don't worry. I wonder where that slave is now. I'd like to speak with him."

"The Lady Octavia has left but there's a few slaves packing the last of her baggage. If he's one of them would you let me speak to him, Master?"

"Why you, Craig?"

"He's terrified of his mistress. He scarcely speaks but when he does it just pours out especially if he's slightly drunk. He'd just clam up in front of you."

Craig paused, "Master?"

"What's bothering you Craig?"

"I'm a slave and I'd be trying to get another slave to betray his owner. It would be like David, Master."

"He's my slave, boy." Titus growled, "She only gets title when I'm dead. Do what you have to."

"See what you can do, Craig," Flavius said, "You've done well today. How can I reward you?"

"Never separate Ty and me, Master."

"Until you meet a beautiful girl and beg me to let you marry."

"No sir. Neither of us have much in interest in girls and we love each other."

"I could declare you married and find you quarters to match."

Yes please sir. That would be wonderful. May I ask Ty first please."

"First, go and see what information you can get from Octavia's slave. Come back and report. Matthew will find you a bottle of good wine and you can propose properly."

Flavius turned to the others.

"I'm going to speak with my mother," Flavius said. "Why don't you wait in the House of Sparta. You can relax there. It's a pity Craig's so old. He'd have made an excellent candidate."

"You can't blurt it all out to the Emperor, my dear," Julia said when she heard the story, "if you do you would make it official and there'd be trouble if you were wrong."

"Phone him. Express your regrets that he can't attend your father's funeral in person and ask his advice about how to proceed. That way you've told him but it's not a formal accusation unless he makes it so."

"But I've still told him. What difference does it make?"

"The Empire has been around for nearly three thousand years. There are protocols and procedures for everything. If he'd lived longer your father would have taught you but this is something you'll have to learn from your Mother. You're not the first to be uncertain whether you've uncovered a plot. Asking his advice means you've told him but it's down to him to make the decisions.

"Believe me, if you visit Rome, the finer points of protocol like this would be part of your daily life."

"Yes Mother, I see."

"Now what are you doing about the slaves. Your father would have had all three castrated and crucified. Matthew would have been whipped yet you're proposing to let two of them live as if they were married? Extraordinary."

"Matthew was hassled over the reception and Craig didn't have anyone to advise him how to approach his betters, Mother."

"It's a pity the Saturnalia is months away. You and your friends could have served at the wedding feast."

"Pardon, Mother."

Julia grinned.

"I must admit I was influenced by Octavia's poison as well, and I still disapprove of you cavorting around with slaves as much as you do but you seem to be learning from it. Your father would never have seen beyond Craig's betrayal the way you have and Hans is proving to be an excellent servant.

"Let's show the world that the House of Aulus is unharmed and that we have every confidence in our servants. Let the slaves have their own party as a wedding feast. We'll attend and toast the happy couple.

"You've got a problem though.

"Traditionally the Master takes the bride on the wedding night as a display of his authority. In this case you'll have to decide which one it is."

To Be Continued