Disowned By Rome

The Legions had yet to conquer the world or master the Italian Peninsula. In fact, the army of the Roman Republic could barely be called a Legion or even an army. Yet, the military of the city held off the surrounding tribes for sixty-three years.

But to keep their war parties strong and to fend off hostile tribes, Rome needed every man to wield a spear and defend his neighbor with his shield. Those unable to fight and do hard labor were looked down on and considered lesser beings.

Into this demanding culture, a child marred by the curse of a Goddess was born. At nine days old, when they are named by their fathers, most infants become citizens of Rome. Most babies crawled at seven months and then walked by ten.

Caudex was neither a named citizen nor did he walk by ten months. Yet, when he first sat up, his mother placed two smooth, heavy stones into his little hands.

“You may start with nothing,” she whispered. “But you will not end that way. First we must build your strength where we can and enhance your balance where possible. Then, I will teach you letters and numbers. For no son of mine will go through life defenseless, disadvantaged, and disowned by Rome.”

Welcome to 446 B.C.

The Violent Path is a new series from J. Clifton Slater, author of historical adventure series Clay Warrior Stories and A Legion Archer.