Marcus returned to Rome with Spartacus and Seline.
The city, which he hadn't seen for almost a year, felt different from before. Rome was abuzz with anticipation for the grand triumph that was soon to take place. The mood was high following the recent suppression of Sertorius' rebellion, which had lasted over five years, and the prolonged slave uprising that had dragged on for nearly two years.
His family was overjoyed by his return. Theutoria, who had been pacing in front of the mansion, embraced him as soon as he stepped out of the carriage.
Her eldest son had returned, now more mature and dependable. As boys grow up quickly, she cried tears of joy, holding her taller son in her arms and refusing to let go.
"I'm so glad you're safe."
Septimus, observing from behind, bowed his head silently. Danae, with a tear-streaked face, murmured her relief.
Marcus considered apologizing, but the moment didn't seem right for it. He simply smiled, which made his mother cry even more.
His younger brother, who rushed out eagerly, wanted to hear firsthand about his brother's heroic victories. That day, they talked until sunset.
His mother and brother listened attentively to Marcus's vivid recounting of his experiences. Septimus and Danae, standing behind him, were also captivated and shared in the joy of the stories.
The highlight of the evening was, of course, the final battle between Spartacus and Crixus. Theutoria expressed sincere regret over the tragic necessity of killing a friend.
"What a sad story. To go to the battlefield and kill a friend…"
In contrast, his younger brother Publius could barely contain his excitement, his face flushed with enthusiasm.
"That's incredible! I can see why Father gave Spartacus our family name and even freed him. I wish I could have witnessed it myself. It must have been a legendary scene worthy of epic tales… Spartacus is pitiful, but those who saw him must have been filled with a fierce spirit."
Most Romans would likely react like Publius. Marcus found confidence in his future plans through his brother's words.
Once the long conversation with his family concluded, Septimus approached Marcus with a question.
"Young Master, I heard everything from your father, but don't you think you might have given up too much?"
"Why do you think so?"
"The value of a triumph is greater than you might realize. While the Senate might acknowledge your contributions, the citizens are more easily impressed by what they see. And considering the silver coins distributed during the triumph, the public support might shift toward Pompey, despite your efforts."
"You're right if you consider the short term. The immediate impact of a triumph is indeed substantial. However, such fervor is fleeting; it's a temporary excitement. What truly influences people in the long run is what stays in their minds."
"But how can you ensure that people remember you for a long time?"
Marcus smiled confidently. Septimus's concern was valid, but Marcus had already anticipated it.
This issue had been discussed when Marcus asked Crassus to forgo his triumph. Crassus had been concerned that giving up the triumph would lead to the citizens not fully appreciating his military achievements.
Marcus had a solution prepared.
"You mentioned that people are more easily impressed by visible things. Let's give them something memorable. I was planning to ask you to do this anyway: hire a renowned playwright. Ideally, someone with a good reputation but who can work quickly."
"You want to stage a play?"
"Yes. It will serve as a form of propaganda, and there's no better material than this. If the playwright adapts it well, the audience will be thrilled. I'm confident about it."
In the early days of the Republic, Rome's theater was rudimentary. It wasn't until the 3rd century BC that it became more refined with the translation and performance of famous Greek works. Plays based on Roman heroes or citizens were written later, and the theater's schedule gradually expanded from about 10 days a year to nearly 30, including special performances.
The demand for engaging plays among the Romans was definitely growing.
Septimus seemed intrigued.
"A play featuring Spartacus as the protagonist... Given that there are already many plays with Greek heroes, this should be feasible."
"Exactly. Spartacus is now a Roman. If we highlight that, it could make for a very educational play."
"Imagine this: A gladiator, once a slave, meets a master who recognizes his worth, swears loyalty, and uses his talents. He then kills his former friend who led a rebellion, all while shedding tears for his lord and Rome, and ultimately becomes a proud Roman himself. If we add some dramatization, this story could captivate the Romans like no other."
This approach would subtly praise Marcus and Crassus for their humane treatment of slaves while also celebrating Rome's glorious victory. The story's strong narrative and emotional depth would likely ensure a positive reaction from the audience.
Publius was already excited by the saga of Spartacus. Among the eight legions that followed Crassus, Spartacus had nearly become a legend.
Marcus had instructed the soldiers to recount their experiences when they returned to Rome. Soldiers who participated in victorious campaigns were always eager to share their stories. Spartacus was gaining fame as one of Rome's top gladiators, and the rumors spread quickly.
In this context, releasing the play would serve as excellent propaganda.
Theater was historically a powerful propaganda tool, though it wasn't fully established for this purpose in late republican Rome. The most notable early adopter of theater for propaganda was the first emperor, Octavianus, who commissioned plays that celebrated the myths of his dynasty.
Marcus drew inspiration from this approach.
'It seems I'm following in Augustus' footsteps in many ways,' Marcus thought. This wasn't just a feeling; it was a fact. There was already a proven method to win over both the masses and the Senate, and it would be unwise not to utilize it.
Septimus, understanding Marcus' intentions, agreed without hesitation.
"I'll find the most suitable playwright. Is there anything else you need?"
"Yes, while you're at it, look for a suitable gift."
"For whom?"
"Pompey. He plans to host a grand banquet after the triumph, and it seems that my father and I will be attending. I need to prepare a gift in advance—something symbolic and impressive enough to appeal to Pompey's vanity."
"I understand. I'll start looking into it right away."
Septimus bowed and left.
Once the discussion was over, Danae, who had been quietly listening from the side, approached Marcus. She seemed to have wanted to speak with him for some time but had been holding back.
Danae's appearance, reminiscent of an eager puppy, made Marcus smile involuntarily.
"Did you manage well while I was away?"
"Yes, I studied diligently, cutting down on sleep, so I could be ready to help you as soon as possible."
"…How many hours did you sleep each day?"
"I slept for five hours. At first, I only managed four hours, but I was too sleepy, and my study efficiency declined."
'She doesn't know her limits.'
Danae often overextended herself when it came to matters related to Marcus. He had instructed her to study hard but not at the expense of her health.
Yet, she smiled happily as if she enjoyed the challenge, which made him smirk.
"Make sure you get enough sleep to stay healthy. You don't need to study so intensely. Try to relax and engage in activities even when I'm not around."
"Okay. I'll do that."
Danae continued to smile and stayed by Marcus' side, her joy almost palpable.
"If you were a dog, you'd be wagging your tail incessantly," he thought.
"Did you do anything fun or interesting while I was gone?"
"Oh, yes! Well, you see…"
Marcus listened to Danae's cheerful chatter as he settled into bed.
The night he spent in Rome after a long absence felt profoundly deep.
Marcus' youth was also drawing to a close.
※※※※
Pompey's triumph was a grand success, making all the Roman citizens ecstatic. Without him, the entire province of Hispania might have fallen from Rome's grasp. Even the Senate, envious of Pompey, praised his achievements.
Despite expectations that Crassus' accomplishments might be overshadowed, that was not the case. A play about Spartacus gained immense popularity among the Roman citizens, and Crassus' reputation rose as well.
Crassus, once known for his greed, was now seen as a kind master who recognized and valued talented slaves.
His impact was not as immediate as Pompey's, but Crassus' recognition steadily grew, even if it went largely unnoticed.
Taking advantage of this momentum, Pompey and Crassus were elected as consuls with a significant lead over the candidates in third place and below.
Pompey achieved the unprecedented feat of becoming consul at the age of 36. While such an exception might have embarrassed someone with a strong sense of tradition, Pompey took great pride in it.
To celebrate his election, Pompey hosted a grand banquet, showcasing himself as both the youngest triumphal general and the youngest consul in Roman history. Although the Senate disapproved, Pompey paid no mind to their reactions.
He invited prominent senators and notable figures from the equestrian class, including his fellow consul, Crassus. Despite his dislike for Pompey's arrogance, Crassus decided to attend. Politics often required tolerating unpleasant opponents with a smile.
Contrary to the public perception that he was solely focused on wealth, Crassus was politically astute. He saw this as an opportunity to introduce his son, Marcus, and went to Pompey's mansion with him.
"Hahaha! Who is this?" Pompey exclaimed with exaggerated enthusiasm, spreading his arms wide.
Crassus masked his true feelings and responded with a polite smile, clasping Pompey's outstretched arm.
"It's the first time I've seen you since the consular elections."
"Hahaha, we'll be working together to run the state next year, so we'll see each other often. And is this young man your eldest son, whom you cherish so much?"
Pompey's gaze turned to Marcus, standing beside Crassus.
Crassus nodded proudly with a sincere smile. "You guessed it right. This is my eldest son, Marcus."
"Marcus? That's the same name as yours!"
"I gave him my name in the hope that he would follow in my footsteps. But it's clear that he will surpass me in every way. Hahaha!"
"Father, don't boast so much, or people might envy you."
Crassus laughed louder, ignoring Marcus' attempt to temper his pride. "Ha! Envy? Let anyone who has a better son than mine step forward. Those who say otherwise are simply blinded by jealousy."
Crassus had such confidence in Marcus that he believed anything his son said, no matter how improbable. The skills Marcus demonstrated after the war were truly impressive. Crassus had never lost by following his son's advice; instead, he gained immeasurable benefits.
Senators who once restrained Crassus now showed him deep intimacy and camaraderie. When he was elected consul, they vied to congratulate him.
Crassus was reveling in the best feeling of his life. With alcohol flowing, his pride in Marcus became even more evident.
Marcus responded politely and eventually sent Crassus elsewhere.
Pompey observed Crassus' unusual display of affection with great interest.
'Come to think of it, he did mention his son before,' Pompey mused.
He shifted his gaze from Crassus to Marcus.
"How old are you?"
"I'll be sixteen next year."
"So you'll be an adult in two years. You must have been quite young when you went to war. Haha, even I hadn't been on the battlefield at that age. You've got a lot of guts."
"I'm no match for the great Pompey, no matter what I do. In fact, I'm still struggling to manage my nervousness just being in the presence of someone I admire so much."
"Admire? Me?"
Pompey looked surprised. Crassus and Pompey were known adversaries in Rome, so hearing Crassus' son express admiration for him was unexpected.
"I may be from the Crassus family, but first and foremost, I am a Roman citizen. It would be disingenuous not to respect Pompey Magnus, who is building a reputation on par with that of Africanus."
"You know your father and I are not on good terms, right?"
"That's true, but you both are central figures leading Rome. And by the time I enter politics, Pompey will have achieved supreme leadership with everything at his command. There's no reason for me, a newcomer, to be hostile towards such a distinguished elder."
"Haha, you're refreshingly honest, which I appreciate. You clearly have a more open mind than your father."
Pompey was particularly pleased by the phrase "everything at his command," especially coming from the son of his rival.
He swirled his wine glass and gestured towards the mansion's garden.
"Let's step outside and talk further. I'm intrigued by how you've managed to turn Crassus into a doting father."
"It would be an honor. I've been eager to have a meaningful conversation with Pompey Magnus, whom I admire."
Pompey led Marcus to a secluded part of the spacious garden where they could talk privately. Slaves had arranged wine and various snacks on a nearby table.
"I shouldn't be away from the main gathering for too long, but a short conversation should be fine. Please, go ahead."
A slave poured wine into Marcus' glass. The pleasant aroma mingled with the evening breeze.
"I'm honored to accept."
Marcus lifted his glass and took a careful sip.
Pompey watched with interest, a smile playing on his lips.
"You've said you have a talent that surpasses Crassus."
"That's an overstatement."
"Don't be too modest. I want to hear your honest opinion. Consider it a test."
Pompey drank his wine in one gulp and continued.
"You spoke of me and Crassus as pillars leading Rome. Do you truly believe that?"
"Yes."
Marcus answered without hesitation but added a final thought.
"But I think both of you have areas that could be improved."
"······?"
Pompey's eyes flashed with a hint of anger.
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