ROMAN SHORT FICTION

The Misguided Protector

The Curse of the Runaway Justice

Martius, Anno DCCL Ab Urbe Condita (A.U.C.)
March, 50 BCE

In the shadow of the Apennine Mountains, a quiet vicus was caught in the grip of fear — a fear of a runaway profugus, accused of perfidia and evading justice.

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Flavius Cassianus was a simple custos — an ex-soldier who had seen enough battle to desire peace. The seniores vici begged him to protect them from a runaway fugitive accused of treachery. They thought he was their Hercules, son of Jupiter, but in truth, Flavius was just bored. The market hadn’t had his favorite olives, so why not chase a fugitive?

“The man is dangerous, Flavius,” the village elder said, trembling as though he were describing a Minotaurus. He handed Flavius a worn map, hoping Flavius knew where to go. “He knows these hills well. Do what must be done.”

Flavius nodded solemnly, gripping his gladius. “I will protect the village. No one else needs to be afraid,” he said, already…