The Leopard Vanguard (Leopard King Saga Book 1) Read online

  Now it was Tullus’ turn to laugh. “Fair enough. But if I win you will have to wash both me and Celestra everyday for one month.”

  Anna pondered Tullus’ offer before extending her hand. Tullus shook it while Celestra growled her assent.

  The next day the Troupe set up camp outside the city of Ravenna: known as the infamous gathering point for Julius Caesar’s troops before they crossed the Rubicon, during the irksome Roman civil war. Tullus had surveyed the marshes that surrounded Ravenna’s imposing city walls before helping Gansu prepare for his act. Suddenly, his friend abruptly broke off the practice session. Tullus watched with metal rods in hand, as Gansu assumed the lotus position similar to when he had first demonstrated his act. Gansu took deep breaths through his nostrils before exhaling through his mouth. “Why do you do that?” Tullus asked.

  One of Gansu’s eyes flickered open, then closed.

  “Why do you do that?” Tullus repeated.

  “My focus eludes me this morning. I must think of my breath. Because, he who can master breath can accomplish anything,” Gansu replied calmly.

  “Really? Can it help me become a better fighter?”

  Both of Gansu’s eyes flickered open. “If that is what you desire.”

  “Teach me.”

  After a moment of silence Gansu broke off his breathing. “Sit down,” he said. Tullus assumed the lotus position. Gansu nodded. “Now, close eyes.” Tullus did so and waited for Gansu’s next instructions. “Picture a river; the river is life. River flows in one direction like life. Now, slowly take in breath from nose and release air from mouth.”

  “This is going to make me a better fighter?”

  “No questions! Think of river and breath only!”

  Tullus pictured a river in his mind but he also imagined himself fighting off hordes of barbarians with Cutter. He was serving in the Legions again, back in Syria and far from Rome. Soon both his and Gansu’s breathing became synonymous. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Tullus heard Gansu cease his breathing exercises.

  “Open eyes.”

  Tullus opened his eyes. “I don’t feel any different.”

  Gansu shook his head indignantly. “You westerners, too much hurry. Come back tomorrow; I teach you more.”

  Tullus stood up and thanked Gansu before returning to the center of the camp where he found Paullus talking to Masego and two other men who served as the African’s assistants. Behind them two camp sentries stood guard in front of a baggage train with the emblem of an imperial Roman eagle carved into its side panel. A baggage train used during military campaigns, but what was it doing here? After his conversation ended, Paullus broke off from the group and smiled at Tullus. “Tullus. I was thinking about you, come, walk with me. How are things progressing?”

  “Quite well, thank you,” Tullus replied. “But I was wondering what an imperial baggage train is doing in our camp?”

  “Don’t worry yourself with that,” Paullus said somberly. “How are you coming along with your breathing exercises?”

  Strange response. “We’ve started, but Gansu acts a bit odd sometimes.”

  Paullus laughed. “The Chinese are not like us westerners, Tullus. But there’s a reason for those breathing exercises.”

  “I’m not sure I follow.”

  “Have you ever experienced visions or felt strange lately?”

  “Not that I know of…why?”

  “Feelings of premonitions?”

  Tullus thought hard. “Why are you asking me these questions, Paullus?”

  “Please answer the question, my dear boy.”

  Tullus thought hard. “When I was in Rome I felt a sense of dread; I was at a banquet.”

  Paullus rubbed his bearded chin. “It’s as I figured–the Periculum spell. Even without studying the Fortis spells your natural talents seem to have emerged on their own.”

  “I’m afraid I don’t understand what you’re talking about, Paullus.”

  “Tullus, I knew something was different about you. I knew it when you could see the stars in Celestra’s eyes.”

  Tullus didn’t know where Paullus was going with this. “Can’t you see the stars in her eyes Paullus?”

  “Tullus, you really don’t know how special you are…do you? You’ve never heard of Elemence?”

  “Should I have?”

  Paullus grinned. “No, of course not. All forms of magic were banned from the Empire before you were born and most of the Fortis rolls written by the Great Elders were burned after the destruction of the Air Paladins. Well, I’m sure this is all new to you, but I feel it’s time you learned.”

  “What are you trying to say Paullus?”

  Paullus said: “My boy you’ve been blessed with Gift: the source where Elemence originates. That’s why you can see Celestra’s stars. I cannot see them as I am an ordinary mortal.”

  Gift? Tullus laughed. “How do you know all of this?”

  “Through Hradack of course. Years ago he explained it all to me. He is a powerful Spellcaster skilled in the art of Elemence: which is the study of thought-based magic.” Tullus scratched his head. “I think I need a drink.”

  “Excellent. I was on my way to my tent. We can drink there.”

  They approached a large bark-colored tent. Inside, it smelled of incense. Tullus marveled at the lavish carpets and elaborate wooden desk inside it.

  “This looks like the tent of a Legatus,” Tullus said as Paullus slid behind his desk.

  “It serves its purpose.” Paullus poured a cup of wine for Tullus. “Now, have you given any thought to my offer?”

  Tullus stared at the impressive Combat Griffin carvings inlaid upon the front panel of Paullus’ desk before his thoughts returned to the wager he had made with Anna. He sipped his wine. “It appears that you’ve given this idea of yours more thought. But I must warn you Paullus Anna isn’t happy about my inclusion into the Troupe. “

  Paullus laughed and stood up behind his desk. “Anna is always distrustful of newcomers. It’s in her blood. I’m sure she’ll warm up to you in time. Be patient.”

  “It’s not Anna I’m worried about. It’s this wager we’ve made. And if I lose it I’ll have to become her slave for one full month.”

  “Then we must make sure you win dear boy.” Paullus walked toward a large trunk in the corner of the tent. After fumbling through it he pulled out a Leopard pelt and looked it over. “Given to me by a Hradack the Leopard Master, years ago,” Paullus said as he handed the pelt to Tullus.

  Tullus inspected the pelt. “What does this have to do with me?”

  “I think there’s a cape in here somewhere,” Paullus said as he dug through the trunk’s contents again before withdrawing a large Leopard-print cape. “Yes, here it is,” Paullus dusted off the cape before tying it around Tullus’ neck while Celestra looked on intently. “Your cognomen is Ulixes? That means King, correct?”

  “Yes,” Tullus said, “a nickname given to me by my friend Decimus: ‘King of the Centurions’ he called me. The name stuck.”

  “Mmmmmm…I think it’s all starting to come together. Why don’t you do the honors?”

  “I’m not sure I follow.”

  “The pelt, dear boy, try in on.”

  “Alright,” Tullus slipped the Leopard pelt over his scalp. “Now who am I supposed to be dressed like this?”

  Paullus grinned. “I’ll have to think up a name, but when I do I’ll be sure to let you know.”

  Tullus emerged from Paullus’ tent with Celestra trailing him. He left the Leopard pelt and cape with Paullus who would have them cleaned. Tullus walked around the perimeter of the camp until he heard the sound of water in the distance. After walking a bit further he came across a rope bridge spanning a lush green ravine. The bridge was suspended over a raging river below and Anna was perched on one of its handrails, staff in hand. He laughed and walked up to where she was standing. “What are you doing Anna?” The bridge swayed under his feet while Celestra padded after him.
>
  Anna paid no attention to Tullus or Celestra but smiled. “Practicing my balance. I’m going to need it to win our wager.”

  “Still convinced you’ll win ehh?” Tullus replied. “I want to let you know Paullus has found me a costume for my act.”

  Anna continued her balancing act on the handrail, twirling her staff and nimbly placing one foot in front of the other. “Can’t it wait? I’m a little busy.”

  “Not really. I want to talk to you.”

  “Then come up here.”

  Tullus smiled. “I do believe that is a challenge.”

  “Think you can handle it up here? It’s a long way down.” She pointed her staff at the sharp rocks below.

  Tullus stepped closer toward her before taking a peek at the raging waters underneath the bridge where foam bubbled around the rocks. He hated heights, but wasn’t in the mood to explain that to Anna. “I’ve been told I’m a fast learner,” Tullus replied as he gripped the handrail and hoisted himself up to where Anna stood. He faced her and she smiled. “This doesn’t look so difficult.”

  Anna swung her staff at him but he kept his balance. “Stay up here a little longer and you’ll soon feel your ankles tire,” she said.

  “So what is the purpose of this exercise?” Tullus stretched his arms out to balance himself.

  “Didn’t you hear what I said earlier? It’s for balance. I use it to practice my act. But whatever you do, don’t look down while you’re standing on the handrail.”

  Tullus felt the handrail cut into his sandaled feet. He glimpsed the river below and almost lost his balance.

  “See? I told you not to do that,” Anna complained. “You Romans don’t listen too well do you?”

  Tullus laughed and inched closer to where Anna was standing. For a moment Tullus thought she would lash out at him again with the staff but she stood there while a light breeze tickled them.

  “I think I’m getting the hang of this.”

  “Don’t get too close to me Tullus,” Anna said as an anxious look washed over her face.

  “I thought you were an expert at these sorts of things,” Tullus said as he closed in on her. “I figure we can both land on the bridge together if we put our minds to it.”

  “What? You’re a crazy Roman, you know that?”

  “I’ve been called worse, but let’s ask Celestra. Girl, do you think I’m crazy?”

  Celestra remained motionless on the bridge while her bright yellow eyes stood transfixed on both Tullus and Anna—finally, she growled her assent.

  Tullus grabbed one of Anna’s wrists while she struggled to maintain her balance. A few moments later she dropped the staff and it rolled toward Celestra who placed her front paws on it.

  “What are you doing?” Anna said.

  “Weren’t you listening to me earlier? I want both of us to land on that bridge together.

  Now, on the count of three. Ready?”

  “Tullus, I really don’t think this is a good idea–”

  “One…..”

  Anna squirmed but Tullus held her tight.

  “Two…”

  “This is madness, Tullus.”

  “Three…”

  Tullus pulled her toward his body and leaped toward the spot where Celestra sat. The Leopardess, utilizing her superior reflexes, pounced from her spot as Tullus and Anna landed on the bridge. They struggled as the bridge swayed under them before Tullus found himself on top of Anna. “I think I’m beginning to like this thing called balance.”

  “Tullus, get off me.”

  “What’s the matter Anna, unhappy because you’re not on top?”

  Anna’s face flushed crimson. “You…are…a barbarian.”

  “Barbarian? I’m not the one wearing creature skins,” Tullus said. He hadn’t felt this good since he was in Eliana’s arms. He looked deep into Anna’s eyes and studied her face while loose strands of blonde hair partially concealed her mischievous eyes.

  “You’re enjoying yourself, aren’t you Tullus?”

  “Maybe I am,” he said while Celestra watched them intently.

  “If you dare tell anyone about this…I’ll…I’ll…”

  “You’ll what?” Tullus said. He rolled off of her and stood up before offering his hand. She reluctantly took it before collecting her staff. Tullus leaned against the handrail and smiled. Anna kneed him in the groin before taking off like a hare. Tullus winced as he rubbed his groin.

  “Celestra, I do believe she likes me.”

  The Leopardess shook her head and growled.

  {V}

  The summer months grew warmer as Tullus started training for his new act. He spent many days with Gansu practicing his breathing technique and studying the old Fortis I scrolls with Paullus. Elemence was more difficult than Tullus anticipated, and he found himself struggling to cast even the most basic Fortis spell–only the Periculum spell came easily. He also found himself practicing his balance with Anna whenever she would tolerate his company. The incident on the bridge was never brought up again, but Tullus couldn’t help recall it whenever he was with Anna. Tullus still didn’t know what his show name was. Paullus wasn’t forthcoming with information despite his daily contact with Tullus and Celestra. Their act was in place. That was all Tullus knew. He had spent weeks training with Paullus, going over the different routines he and Celestra would perform. Paullus’ direction as ringmaster proved invaluable as they fine-tuned their act. Gansu’s encouragement also aided Tullus’ confidence as did Celestra’s acceptance in her role as his partner. Finally the big day arrived: the afternoon of their first performance. Tullus, surprisingly, was not the least bit nervous. He had fought many battles as a Centurion and this was no different, except for the fact that instead of going to war, he was going to entertain crowds. Tullus donned his Leopard-print cape, fastened to his chainmail by two golden Leopard head brooches. He tied a Leopard-print scarf below his eyes to conceal his identity and pulled the Leopard pelt over his head and tied it under his neck. The linen shirt and light chain mail fit comfortably under his leather harness which featured two torques specially designed to offer support to his torso during his act. Two gold wristbands and greaves, shaped in the form of growling Leopard heads, completed his costume.

  He inspected his ornate scabbard, studded with golden Leopard head bosses, and the sword and dagger Vulcan had crafted for him. The sword was named LeopardClaw: its grip forged in the shape of a Leopard’s claw twisting down toward the pommel—which was fashioned in the shape of a golden Leopard head. Upon the blade Vulcan had inscribed the emblem of a pouncing Leopard. The dagger was ordained LeopardTooth, a smaller version of Leopard Claw, its grip forged in the shape of jagged teeth twisting down toward its Leopard head pommel. Tullus sheathed both blades and faced Celestra who looked and him intently through her yellow orbs. Around her neck hung a gold medallion, her name inscribed upon it, attached to a leather collar she would wear during their performance.

  “How do I look girl?”

  Celestra growled contentedly and Tullus smiled. “I’m glad you approve.”

  Paullus’ head popped through the tent’s opening. As he inspected Tullus a large smile spread across his lips before he entered the tent to greet his newest performer. “I say dear boy you look quite distinguished–are you ready?”

  “I believe so,” Tullus said as he checked his costume once more in the mirror.

  “Then, by all means. Let us go.”

  Tullus paused for a few moments. Paullus noticed his hesitation and looked concerned. “Is there a problem, Tullus?”

  Tullus cleared his throat. “How many people am I supposed to perform in front of Paullus?”

  Paullus scratched his beard. “We have quite a few in our audience today.”

  “Yes but how many, exactly?”

  “A few,” Paullus said, “but really Tullus, we must go to the main pavilion where you’re scheduled to perform.” They left the tent and many of the freedmen called out encouragement to Tullus and Celest
ra as they made their way toward the main Pavilion. It was a large billowing structure decorated in Leopard-print pattern. Tullus had never seen it before and assumed Masego had finished it recently. He picked up the pace, following Paullus, as he and Celestra were led inside the pavilion. Inside, Tullus watched Anna finishing up her act. Her athletic body pouncing from one spot on a high wire to another. She finally landed with a back flip and extended her arms in the air, smiling at Tullus and Celestra who were watching her from outside the center ring. After the crowd’s applause died down, and with the act completed, patrons filed out of the pavilion while a few drunken spectators remained in their seats. Anna strode over to where Tullus and Celestra were standing.

  She laughed. “So that’s your costume? Who exactly are you supposed to be, Tullus?”

  “A man that’s about to win our wager,” Tullus responded confidently, even though he watched his prospective audience shrink as people continued to file out of the wooden stands and leave the pavilion in droves.

  “Well I guess I’ll wish you luck…it appears you’re going to need it.” She emitted a raucous laugh before Celestra growled at her. Anna walked off while her enamored fans trailed her sycophantically. Tullus shook his head before he watched Masego and his men set up the props for his act. Paullus entered the ring and called out to the remaining members of the audience.

  “Ladies and gentlemen. Today we have a special treat for your viewing pleasure. Our next performer has traveled the four corners of the Empire. He is here today to perform with the almighty Leopardess Celestra….may I present…the magnificent Leopard King!”

  There were a few scattered cheers and polite clapping from the stands. Tullus ran out to the center of the ring with Celestra trailing him. Paullus resumed his introduction:

  “Now, for his first act, the mighty Leopard King will demonstrate the deadly rings of fire. Masego brought out two large metal rings with bronze handles. Linen rags were wrapped around the rings while Masego dipped them into a large buckets filled with burning oils before a freedman brought a torch. The rings lit up as Celestra took her place across from Tullus inside the main circus ring. After Masego handed him the rings—which were attached to thin metal rods that served as handles—Tullus raised the rods above his head and felt the heat emanating from the rings. He nodded as Masego and the freedman stepped away before signaling Celestra with a shrill whistle; Celestra ran toward him. As she approached the metal rings Tullus took deep breaths through his nose. Celestra grew closer; closer; closer.