Roman Games: Mistress of Gamorah

By Richard Pietz

Donatari had been a gallant young officer with a bright and promising future serving as the Captain of Guard for the Emperor of the Territory of Corinia in what was a peaceful, productive, unobtrusive little country. He, his family, his countrymen, and his country itself find they are nothing more than pawns caught in the middle of the never ending expansion of the Roman Empire. Donatari must learn to survive as a gladiator in the harsh arena of the Province of Gamorah ruled by a Roman Governor and his ruthless, sadistic wife, Krystynia. Many lives are affected by her voracious lust for blood, power, and depraved sexual gratification. The book follows the lives of the citizens and slaves who serve to satisfy the Governess’ insatiable appetites, the most compelling of which are the deadly games of the arena.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: May 6, 2008
• ISBN: 9781462811090

Richard Pietz

About the author The author holds a master’s degree in Human Relations. He has worked in all levels of government including stints as a military officer, an urban planner, and a department director at a major hospital at the state level. All three life experiences exposed him to the many facets of human nature and the complex dynamics of human interaction. This book is his second attempt to explore the world of alternate life styles and sexual relationships that lie just beneath the public mainstream but which are inevitably emerging through art, literature, television and cinema.

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Copyright © 2008 by Richard Pietz.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

This book was printed in the United States of America.

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47893

Contents

CHAPTER ONE

I  Approaching Romans

II  Emperor’s Council

III  Balzoomy’s Treasure

CHAPTER TWO

I  Balzoomy Escapes

II  The Southern Army

III  The Messenger

IV  Robyni and the Centurion

V  Robyni’s Escape

VI  Camp Slaughter

CHAPTER THREE

I  Towers

II  Balzoomy’s Treason

III  Plunder

IV  Spoils of the City

CHAPTER FOUR

I  Journey Begins

II  Wagon Wheel

III  Main Column

IV  Pezardo’s Attack

V  Lustus’ Estate

CHAPTER FIVE

I  Titus

II  Gamorah

III  Sattinia

IV  The Steward

V  Treachery

CHAPTER SIX

I  Governess Krystynia

II  Sonia and Krystynia

III  Robyni in the Palace

CHAPTER SEVEN

I  Balzoomy’s Fate

II  Sattinia Visits

III  Graduation

IV  Private Showing

V  First Blood

VI  Reward

CHAPTER EIGHT

I  Dungeon

II  The Feast

III  New Love

CHAPTER NINE

I  Saturnalia

II  Donatari’s Opponent

III  Sheebah

CHAPTER TEN

I  Balzoomy’s Invitation

II  Condemned

III  Private Orgy

CHAPTER ELEVEN

I  Karem

II  Preliminaries

III  The Gladiators

LIST OF CHARACTERS

To our continued thirst for knowledge about the life and times of the ancient Greek, Egyptian, and Roman civilizations and to the men and women who spend their lifetimes to bring this gift of knowledge to us.

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CHAPTER ONE

The Roman Threat

I

Approaching Romans

The sun in all its glorious, golden array hung high above the peaceful setting below. It was early Autumn but the air was warm and pleasant. Sonia had taken advantage of this gift of the gods to its fullest extent. Her naked body was stretched luxuriously over a stuffed couch in the courtyard soaking up the warming rays of the friendly sun. A young slave girl stood at her feet with a huge fan to assist mother nature in keeping a pleasant breeze stirring. Another knelt at her side with a cool nectar which she frequently ran to the wine cellar to refresh while still another knelt on the other side of the couch with her mistress’ gown in the event of sudden visitors.

Honey bees were buzzing busily searching for the sweet nectar from the labyrinth of daffodils, roses, tulips and daisies and a myriad of yellow, red, white, and pink blooms found in the well kept gardens surrounding the courtyard. The soft breeze carried the aroma of honeysuckle and lavender gently through the air sprinkled with resplendent butterflies adding their majestic touch to the idyllic afternoon. Birds circled high overhead between the billowing white clouds, dotting the rich blue sky above, stretching their wings and enjoying the warm updrafts from the earth far below.

The gentle splash of water in the fountain brought a touch of urban elegance to the rustic setting as it whispered to Sonia urging her to relax and close her beautiful blue eyes. Slave and mistress alike had to shield their eyes from the dazzling reflection of the sunlight off of the brilliant marble facade of the villa. The Emperor himself had contributed to the furnishings of the home of one of his favorite young officers.

Handsome marble statues of the gods kept watch over the brick walkways in the gardens with their sightless eyes where Sonia’s two sons were at play under the ever diligent and watchful eye of Romjab, their tutor. Karem, the eldest at eleven years, was chasing Semda, eight years, with a lizard he had caught which was pretended to be a poisonous monster. Their world was sheltered and happy and full of games and mischief. The children’s laughter was interrupted by the thundering of the hooves of a dozen horses.

Someone approaches my lady. Let me assist you with your robe.

Sonia sat up to enable Tanja to place the robe around her shoulders and tie its folds in the front. Run see who approaches girl. See if it is my husband.

Seconds later the girl returned. No my lady, it is not your husband, but it is a detachment of his men led by the Corporal they call Turyk. Where will you greet him?

Oh bring him to me here, Sonia decided with an air of disappointed indifference. Since her husband’s promotion to Captain of the Guard at the Emperor’s palace, she had seen very little of him. Sonia had elected to remain at their country estate rather than accompany her husband to the city where she would have to put up with the catty women of the court. But she had not anticipated that so much of his time would have to be spent in court and was on the verge of changing her decision so that she might see her husband more than one day in ten.

Turyk knelt on one knee and kissed the hem of Sonia’s robe in an honest show of respect and admiration for the family of his Captain. My lady, he said in a deep gravelly voice. His eyes were caught by the bronze beauty of the exposed, slender, crossed legs before him.

What brings you Turyk?

He rose to his full height which was two heads above the average man of his day, reluctantly moving his eyes to meet hers. My lady, the Roman army has been sighted not two days march to the north. Your husband has sent me to escort you to the city as he is involved with preparing our defenses since we can only assume that their intentions are hostile. He has ordered me to return with you before nightfall.

Her mind was suddenly spinning with the details of organizing her departure. Leagei, show Corporal Turyk where to water his horses! Bring his party wine and meat! Tanja, bring Cenal to me! Doriah, prepare my wardrobe! By this time, the children’s elder tutor was also at her side. Romjab, prepare the children for a journey to the city."

At once my lady, he replied.

Cenal came running as fast as his obese body would allow. He ran, not out of fear of his mistress but, out of his desire to serve his gracious benefactor. He was the head steward of the estate and, as such, enjoyed many of the luxuries usually reserved for citizens of much higher stature. His mistress was not a harsh lady to serve and her generosity had earned his undying devotion and loyalty. His footsteps were also rushed because he was aware of the frightened tone in Tanjas voice. My lady wanted me?" he asked between puffs.

Cenal, the Roman army has been sighted to the north! I am taking the children to the city. You are to strip the estate of everything of value and hide it in the cave in the south field. Take all the food and wine you can store. Gather the rest of the slaves and take refuge there. The Romans are less than two days to the north. I will return after the siege. Oh, also have a wagon loaded with food and wine for me. It may become scarce in the city.

Yes my lady. He bowed low and scuttled off to his chores.

Sonia smiled at Tanja who had remained at her side after fetching the fat Cenal. She took her hand and patted it affectionately. Now Tanja, what else is there to do?

Let us bathe you my lady, to prepare you for your journey.

Yes, that would be nice.

Sonia soaked in a warm, scented bath while the chaos of preparations consumed the house. Her beautiful tanned and toned body may have seemed to be at leisure but her mind was a caldron of frantic thoughts and worries for the safety of her family and servants. However, she had given her orders and had every faith that her household staff would carry them out. She enjoyed the ministrations of her personal body slaves as their soft hands massaged and gently washed and dried their mistress.

Her entire world had suddenly and without provocation or warning been turned completely upside down. She must hurry and reach the side of her husband to lend whatever assurance and comfort she could during this impending crisis. She was trying to enjoy this last little taste of luxury knowing full well that it may become a very scarce commodity in the coming days.

II

Emperor’s Council

At last, the preparations were completed, tearful farewells made, and the journey to the city begun. Sonia rode high in a covered litter borne by eight husky slaves. Romjab and the children rode fine horses personally selected by her husband as gifts and Sonia’s three body slaves rode in a wagon loaded with personal effects and supplies. The entire countryside was in a state of confusion. Runners had been sent to warn all of the country dwellers of the approaching Roman hoard. Every road leading to the city was filled with wagons and chariots, horses and cattle, and anxious, apprehensive men, women, and children. The siege would be long and hard but most people had adequate warning to prepare for their needs.

The Emperor’s palace was located on a hill in the very heart of the city. The walls rose to the same height as the walls surrounding the city and a fortified tower protected each corner as well as the gate. The palace itself rose to awesome heights. High in the center was a tower from which it was possible to survey the entire city and the country side for miles around. This vantage point had been successfully used in the past to manipulate troops and direct the course of battle.

However, much lower than these lofty heights, a heated discussion was taking place in the Emperor’s Council Chambers. The discussion matched the wits of two Corinian Generals. Both Generals were on their feet glaring at one another. General Corock was in favor of yielding to the Roman demands whereas General Antius would yield to no one.

General Corock had a full white beard and a well weathered face. His uniform was resplendent with signs of valor and achievement. He was a member of the old vanguard and the years had made him more cautious as he had seen the ravages of war on his homeland in the past. His words were heavily charged with emotion. General, are you aware that the Romans have a full legion and an auxiliary force of the same size to throw against us. You are willing to defy twelve thousand infantry and two hundred and forty well trained Roman cavalry?

General Antius was several years younger than his counter part. His face was still chiseled and determined despite his relative youth. He stood a full head taller than his older comrade and his shoulders were broad and powerful. Yes General! I will defy ten times that many. We owe those sons of dogs no homage. I’ll not let my lowest of privates pay the first ounce of gold or a single ruby to these invaders. The city of Aphernia paid its taxes. The next year, the Romans demanded more. And again the third year. And again and again until they could no longer pay and the entire city was razed. General Antius drew in his breath to calm himself and sat down, satisfied that he had made the best point of the argument.

I am well aware of the fate of the city of Aphernia General. General Corock needed no history lesson from his younger counterpart. I am also aware that it is the greed and the insatiable demands of the wife of the Governor of the Province of Gamorah that increases the taxes each year. Her extravagance and excesses continually deplete the official coffers and so she must raid smaller states such as Aphernia and Corinia. We could send a delegation to Rome to . . .

A delegation from enslaved people to complain of the rule of a Governor appointed by the Holy Emperor of Rome himself! General you’re mad!

Enough! Emperor Corinia’s voice was commanding. While we bicker among ourselves, the Roman dogs get closer. We must decide now whether we fight or yield. We will need time to prepare our defenses. If all sides of the argument have been stated, I am ready to make my decision. The Emperor eyed each of his commanders in turn. The tension in the room was written on each of the proud, brave faces of the Corinian commanders.

But, before he could speak, an officer of the guard rushed into the chamber. Forgive my intrusion My Emperor! A Roman Centurion and ten of his men are at the city gate under a flag of truce. They demand an audience.

The Emperor studied the man’s face for several long seconds as he considered his next move in this life and death game that would decide the future of his country and his countrymen. He felt the tremendous burden on his shoulders and could only pray to the gods to give him the wisdom to act in the best interests of them all. Bring the Centurion to the Throne Room, he ordered. His men are to wait outside of the gate. Send a detachment to keep an eye on them. Quickly my loyal commanders, freshen up and bring as many of your officers as are within my walls to the Throne Room. We will hear the Romans’ intentions before we continue.

The Roman Centurion was ushered into the massive Throne Room of Emperor Corinia. He was somewhat impressed by the number of Corinian officers he noticed in the audience of the Emperor. The walls of the large room were covered with colorful tapestries depicting life and heroic deeds in the land of Corinia. Wonderful, deep reds, blues, greens, and yellows displayed spring planting, fall harvests, deer and pheasant hunting, the building of roads and dams and aqueducts, victories over marauding barbarians, temples, and the grand palace itself. The Centurion walked directly to the lavishly decorated throne and stood at attention, nodding ever so slightly. Emperor Corinia was attired in his richest robe and had a dazzling crown of jewels upon his head. Speak Centurion, he commanded.

My Lord Marcus Gaius Agripa, Governor of all territories from here to the Mediterranean, sends greetings to Deorian Lanius Corinia, Emperor of the city and territory of Corinia. The Governor, as the duly appointed representative of the Emperor of Rome, has graciously offered to allow Emperor Corinia to retain his position and holdings as they presently exist. In return, Governor Marcus Gaius Agripa requests certain taxes be paid annually to his holy office. Those taxes shall be one twentieth of all grain and produce harvested within the territory of Corinia each year, one tenth of all cattle and horses within the territory, five hundred slaves annually, and all young men will be required to serve in the Roman auxiliary forces from age sixteen to age twenty.

A murmur went through the gathering of officers in the Throne Room. The Centurion was undeterred. He continued in a strong, confident voice. In addition, my lord emperor, ten wagon loads of silver and ten of gold will be delivered to the Governor each new year. Here is a written document containing these provisions. If you sign and seal this document now, our legion will come no closer to your city walls. We will wait where we are camped for the first annual payment and will give you thirty days to raise it. If you do not sign now, you will have until we reach the walls of your city to do so. With this, the Centurion handed the document to the nearest ranking officer fully expecting him to present it to the Corinian Emperor.

General Antius accepted the document from the Centurion, pulled out his razor sharp dagger, cut it neatly in half and handed it back. Immediately the chamber was filled with howls of laughter and the sounds of clenched fists striking armor plated chests from the surprised and delighted Corinian officers. The General turned to face his Emperor expecting to feel his wrath but was pleased to find that he too was laughing at the shocked Centurion.

The Emperor raised his hand. Just as suddenly as the laughter had begun, it stopped. Lowering his hand he spoke softly but authoritatively. Centurion, you have the answer of my officers. The Centurion, this time sensing that the collective anger in the room could impose immediate personal danger to himself, bowed low, turned, and marched out. We will assemble in the War Room to plan our defenses.

The War Room was located just below the lookout platform in the observation tower. The Emperor’s private passageway in the center of the palace allowed him to reach the soaring heights of the War Room well in advance of his officers. He was already nervously pacing as the first of them began filtering in. All of their thoughts were focused on the fate that surely awaited them for daring to stand against the might of Rome.

The walls of the War Room were covered with large maps showing the known world, the territory of Corinia, the City of Corinia and her defenses, and the defensive positions of the palace. The center of the room was dominated by a huge, oak table. The timber for the table had been hewn by Corinian woodsmen from a majestic oak tree that had stood proudly for almost a century in the forests at the edge of the Corinian territory. Skilled craftsmen had cut and polished the wood during the reign of the Emperor’s great, great, great grandfather. Drumming his fingers on the massive table, that had survived many generations of Corinian hierarchy and threats to their rule, the Emperor waited impatiently until the last of the War Council had filed in and assumed their positions. General Tynohk, I will have your report.

Yes, My Emperor. General Tynohk was the oldest of the Corinian generals. He had weathered many minor skirmishes with warring tribes to the south and with the nomadic peoples of the north but never anything as monumental as the approaching clash with a well trained Roman Legion. He was in charge of the placement of all Corinian armies and troops and maintained daily communication with them through an elaborate messenger system. He rose slowly from his chair and went to the map of Corinia Territory.

As you can see My Lord, we have three armies positioned on our southern border which is our largest and heretofore most vulnerable. General Tymes and his army of five thousand troops are in the center with General Hermanes and his three thousand on the one side and General Cercees with his three thousand on the other side. We have already sent word to all three armies but it will not reach them for another half day and, if they were able to assemble and march immediately, they would still be a minimum of three full days and nights away.

We have General Sonuck with his army of one thousand on the eastern frontier and General Asak with his army of one thousand on the western border. But, as you know My Lord, these armies are scattered building roads and assisting the people with the harvest. All of this was common knowledge, but each of the men in the room hung on every word spoken by the old General.

To the north we have General Symbook and his army of two thousand. This of course is where the Roman Legion came through. General Symbook’s army was spread out in four groups of five hundred patrolling the border. Unfortunately, they had no chance to organize for a full scale frontal assault. The commanders of each of the separate groups have staged ambushes along the route to slow the enemy but these have been quite costly. Their casualties have been high. I am advised that they will continue this action until reinforcements arrive or until they are no longer able to do so. This leaves us with General Corock’s fifteen hundred, General Antius’ fifteen hundred, and the Palace Guard.

The silence was deafening as General Tynohk took his seat. No one spoke as all eyes were on the Emperor. What were the extent of General Symbook’s casualties? It was the Emperors’s voice, low and thoughtful.

Over half of his command dead or wounded My Lord. A full one thousand brave Corinian soldiers.

And the Romans?

Not half that many My Lord.

Captain Donatari!

Yes My Lord.

Runners have been sent to warn all property owners in the path of the Romans. You and your men will see to the quartering of these people within the city walls and to the preparations of the city for a siege. Your men will be the last line of defense for the palace should the Romans storm the walls. Be gone to do your work.

Yes My Lord. Donatari was the Captain of the Palace Guard which consisted of two hundred and fifty hand picked troops. He was a tall, bronzed man with dark, quick eyes which could dance with delight or pierce when angry. But he was also a good and honorable husband and father. He was concerned about his family in the country and would not rest easy until they were within the relative safety of the palace walls. He was glad that he had sent his most trusted and devoted soldier to insure their safety. He could think of no one better to trust with his family than Corporal Turyk. As he left, he could hear General Corock requesting the honor of leading his troops to battle against the Romans first.

I propose to meet them . . . The guard closed the door silently behind Donatari.

III

Balzoomy’s Treasure

All through the day and long into the evening, citizens poured through the gates of the city and began taking shelter in public buildings or with friends or relatives. An ordered confusion took over as Donatari’s men directed traffic, set up guards at the grain reserves and other vital locations and lent whatever help they could to the tired and scared populace. Donatari himself met Sonia and her entourage at the walls of the palace.

She flew into his strong arms and drew renewed courage from his embrace. What does all this mean my husband? she tearfully asked.

I’m afraid we have declared war on the Roman invaders, he huskily responded. But for now, let’s get you comfortable. The Emperor has made quarters available for you and the children in the east wing of the palace. I will show you the way but I’m afraid you will have to organize things yourself. I have much to do. He picked each of his boys up one at a time giving them a manly hug before leading his family to their rooms in the palace.

The next morning found the air filled with smoke from the burning villas and fields surrounding the city. The Roman tents could be seen through the haze just outside the city walls. They seemed to be as at home on the verge of their siege as they might have been in a camp outside of their own city walls. As of yet, no vehicles of war or siege machines could be seen. Incredibly, in the place of such preparations, music could be heard drifting through the thick, tepid air between the Roman camp and the strong Corinian city walls. And the laughter of women. The Romans were feasting and celebrating. Or was it a ruse? Some kind of trick? Maybe they were inviting attack. But of