Read Online Hosker, G [Sword of Cartimandua 11] Roman Treachery by Griff Hosker - Free Book Online Page B

will not know what to do.”
    “The men have heard rumours of people being terrorised up the valleys to the south. Wagon tracks were seen but no-one dared say anything.  So your rumour may be true.” The brothers looked at each other with unspoken words in their eyes.  Decius would work on the security again and clear the trees back further. Rebels or bandits that close meant problems for the hardworking and loyal Brigante. In this area it paid to be careful.
    “We have turmae on the road for a while so you can always send a messenger to Morbium.” The proximity of the fort afforded the farm more protection than most. “We have to go now but I will visit again, alone next time.” His last comment was for Frann.
    Ailis nodded, “Good, it is time Macro had a sister.  I am getting no younger and I would like a granddaughter before I meet your father again!”
     

Chapter 5
    As they left the farm Aneurin ventured, “Sir!”
    Sextus snapped, “Not when we are on patrol son.  Save your questions for the halts.” He shook his head and said, to no-on in particular, “ I have never known such recruits for fucking questions.”
    Marcus did not turn around but smiled.  Aneurin reminded him of himself riding with Rufius and Metellus all those long years ago.  “Just one question Aneurin.”
    “Why doesn’t the ala patrol this part all the time?”
    “That is a good question Aneurin and the answer is a simple one.  We are the only cavalry this side of the divide and the barbarians in the north fear us.  Once we have quashed this latest threat we will return home.” He saw Aneurin’s face drop.  “Where is your home?”
    He pointed to the east.  “Over there by the hills, close to the old hill fort.”
    “I know it. Well we may return but not for a while and now no more talk we have to find a giant who is invisible.”
    Sextus saw the question rising into every face and he growled, “Not one fucking word!”
    They reached the valley and Marcus held up his hand.  They just waited. There was total silence but all of the troopers, not just the new ones stared at each other.  Eventually Scanlan held up his hand and said, hesitantly, “You said a giant sir?”
    Marcus laughed, “Just wait and see Scanlan.  We have time to wait so do not worry.  Out next journey is an easy one down the road towards the south.”
    The troopers stared at the water.  Suddenly a figure stood next to Sextus, who drew his sword and said, “Fuck me!”
    Marcus shouted, “Stand down! It is Drugi.” He smiled at the genial giant who stood taller than a horse’s head. “You have not lost your touch old friend.”
    Drugi snorted, “Around these I could have worn full armour, banged a drum and they still would not have seen me.” He smiled at Marcus.  “How long since you saw me?”
    “Had I had my bow, enough time to put three arrows into you when you moved behind the elm tree!”
    “Hah! This land is making me soft.”
    “What have you heard, Drugi the king of all trackers?”
    He pointed to the west. “There are men with wagons in the high valley., to the south”
    “Brigante?” The old scout nodded and Marcus turned to one of his more experienced troopers. “Livius, ride and find the prefect.  Tell him Drugi says they are in the high valley.  Stay with him.” Livius kicked his horse and trotted off. “Drugi, we need scouts.”
    His face fell.  “You want Drugi to leave the farm and follow the wolf?” He pointed at the wolf standard carried by the signifier.
    “No Drugi.  Your work is here, training my son and protecting my family.“ Drugi’s face split into a huge smile. “No, we need you to find us a couple of boys or young warriors who can scout.” He held up his hand.  “They will not be as good as you but we need someone who can follow trail.”
    He looked away to the west, as though he had not heard the decurion’s words. Then he turned.  “I have two trackers in mind. I will bring them to your