Jacob
Armstrong
5366711
Assignment 5
Historical
Details
This was a cold day
in Rome. A breeze blowing through the Atticus estate sent shivers
down Nemo's spine. Marble statues lining the courtyard walls, all
works of art, seemed pale and dull, only adding to the gloom. Across
the courtyard his brother Marcus approached.
“My brother do
you know what good luck has just come upon me?” Not waiting for a
response Marcus continued,“Caesar himself has asked me to be
tribunus laticlavius of the third legion!”
“Congratulations
brother,” Nemo murmured halfheartedly.
“What is wrong
Nemo? Aren't you proud of me? This is a great step in a young
senators career!” Marcus asked, losing none of his steam.
“It's not that
brother, I truly am proud of you,” Nemo tried to grin. “It's
just... I'm not as certain as you that Caesar is the great man you
think him to be.”
“He is a hero!
How dare you question such a man as he fool brother!” Marcus walked
over to a nearby bust and paused for a moment, as if in thought.
“Why, just look at his conquest of Gaul and Pontus. Those
barbarians had been plaguing Rome for decades.”
“I do not
question his military capability but his motives. He is dictator for
life in all, but name and I have heard rumors even that won't be the
case for long.”
“For the good of
the people of Rome!” Marcus interjected.
“For the good of
himself!” Hissed Nemo. “When he crossed the Rubicon and incited
civil war, was that for the good of the people?
“He feared green
eyed serpents in the senate. Seeking to bring false accusations and
punishments to an honest man of Rome. Old men scheming to keep power
to themselves and away from the people.”
“War Crimes and I
think you may be too quick to call those accusations fa...”
“Conjecture!”
Interrupted Marcus.
“Besides, there
are very valid reasons legions aren't allowed near Rome Marcus and
you know this.” Nemo continued, “And just look at the fate of
Pompey and those who stood against him.”
“Pompey was
killed by that Egyptian fool of a pharaoh. He is said to have wept at
Pompey's death and that fool boy of a pharaoh rules no more! Caesar
is merciful, he pardons his enemy as often as not. What ruthless
dictator does that my brother?” By now Marcus had a fervent look on
his face that disturbed Nemo.
“I...” Nemo
hesitated. “I don't know brother. I don't know what to believe.”
Nemo looked at his brother then down at the ground, feeling slightly
lost and defeated.
“I'm sorry Nemo.”
Marcus laughed the fervent look gone from his face. “Nothing gets a
man's blood boiling quite like women and politics! I know you are
still learning the ways of both in high society.” He said with a
teasing smile.
“Oh shut it you
big oaf!” Nemo smiled back. “ I could teach you a thing or two
about the fairer sex!”
“Of course, young
brother.” Marcus chortled. “Of course. I go now to the forum,
Accompany me?
With a chuckle,
Nemo answered, “Of course!”
