Marius walked over to the castra1 where the legio was situated. Since his father wanted him to visit the legio before giving them their orders, he would be speaking to the Legatus Legionis2, as his father was the Legatus Augusti pro praetore3. Legio Minerva had Ethosi as well, so he would likely visit them as well.

The castra’s gate was open, but guarded, and he was able to pass through as the guards recognized him. Marius always admired the organization of the castra. Although it was modified for the region, the castra had the basic layout that all castra adhered to. This made navigating them incredibly easy, and finding someone you are looking for quite simple.

Not to mention that this castra housed Ethosi, and so the Emotional Atmosphere was incredible. They were projecting an air of discipline and efficacy, and it made you want to work and do well. If only he could project this over the entire city, think of what could be done… But no matter, he would have to leave that for later.

“Ave4 Marius!” The Legate seemed to have been informed Marius was looking for him, which certainly saved time. “What brings you here today?”

“Nothing good, Legate, I am sad to say.” Marius grimaced, it was not the kind of news he wanted to bring. “Or I would be sad if it were not for your excellent Ethosi, I will have to give them my thanks later.”

“They are quite good at their job, but your words sound serious.” The Legate frowned, “here, let us talk about it in the praetorium5.”

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“A good idea,” Marius agreed and followed the Legate inside.

“So what news do you bring Marius?” The Legate was more blunt in quiet, which Marius was ok with. The Legate was also of senatorial rank after all, and did not have to be respectful to Marius at all. So the greeting outside was more polite than it had to be and Marius appreciated it.

“Not the good kind,” Marius sighed. “Local informants have given us information about possible movements by Langobardi tribes, and I am here to order you and your legion to the border.”

The Legate frowned, “is it really that bad?”

“There are some worries about a Rage Plague…”

The Legate started, and looked at Marius in surprise. “Trully? That is too serious to ignore.”

“I hate to say this,” Marius admitted. “But I sincerely hope I am having you march for nothing.”

“If it is a Rage Plague I hope so to.”

[1] Castra: A fortified Roman military camp. They had a very organized layout.

[2] Legatus Legionis: The commander of a Roman legion.

[3] Legatus Augusti pro praetore: A Roman military rank that functions as governor of a province and commander of the armed forces. These are all citizens of Senatorial rank.

[4] Ave: Hail!

[5] Praetorium: Headquarters of a Roman castra. The commanders live and work here.