The Eagle's Rise: Legions of Honour, #1

By Blake Patrick

From Recruit to Centurion: A Journey of Valour and Conquest. A gripping, captivating historical thriller.

 

Rome's desire for World dominance…..Gaius and Marcus – heroes of the Roman Empire – face cunning enemies on the battleground and the political arena.

In the midst of ancient Rome's shadow, where danger and power intertwine, lies the story of "The Eagle's Rise." Follow Gaius Marius Maximus, a commander haunted by the call of battle and a longing for peace, on an epic journey that will challenge the very core of the empire.

Joined by his loyal and clever companion Marcus, Gaius must navigate treacherous enemies and deceitful alliances as Rome's reach expands into uncharted territory. With determination and unwavering courage, they strive to shape a new future for Rome, one based on unity rather than conquest.

But "The Eagle's Rise" is more than just a story of conquest and ambition. It is a tale of resilience, the unbreakable spirit of dreams, and the pursuit of a lasting legacy. Join Gaius and Marcus as they embark on an adventure that will test their strength and courage as they face the dawn of a new era.

For fans of historical fiction and epic tales of adventure, "The Eagle's Rise" is a must-read. If you enjoyed books like "The Emperor's Games" or "The Conqueror's Legacy," you will love this gripping novel.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Blake Patrick
• Release date: Feb 26, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224507931

Blake Patrick

Blake Patrick brings nearly three decades of frontline police experience to the literary world. Serving as a bastion of law and order in the UK for 29 years, Blake dedicated his career to the pursuit of justice, not only as a detective unravelling the intricate webs of criminal minds but also as a Family Liaison Officer, providing a compassionate bridge between the force and the families touched by tragedy and crime. Retiring the badge, Blake has since brandished the pen, channelling years of amassed knowledge, humanity, and street-smart wisdom into writing. Although this passion for storytelling was always a flickering flame throughout their policing career, it has only recently roared to life with the completion and publication of their works. This newfound courage to share stories comes from the very essence of a life spent in service to others and a personal milestone of triumph over the daunting vulnerability of creative expression. Blake's works are a unique blend of gritty reality and the rich, complex tapestry of human emotion, informed by an intimate understanding of crime's impact on people and society. Each narrative is not only an act of exploration but also a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit, often exploring themes that resonate deeply with readers from all walks of life. Married for 39 years, Blake's personal life is as rich and fulfilling as their professional one. Together with their spouse, they have nurtured a family that has grown to include two children and three grandchildren, creating a strong, loving foundation that has undoubtedly influenced Blake's writing. Often, it's within the animated discussions and suggestions from these family members that seeds for stories are planted. Whether it's delving into subjects of personal intrigue or taking up the gauntlet thrown by a family member's curiosity, Blake approaches writing with the same fervour and commitment once reserved for solving cases. Readers can expect a journey through pages that not only enthral but also enlighten, crafted by someone who has not only observed life from the sidelines but has been an active participant in its most challenging arenas. Blake's books promise to be a sanctuary where the thrill of the chase, the depth of human connection, and the subtleties of life's intricate narratives converge. 

Book preview

Recruit of Rome

The sun had barely crested the horizon when Gaius Marius Maximus first laid eyes on Rome. The city unfurled before him like a tapestry of chaos and splendour, its streets teeming with life, and its buildings a testament to both the grandeur and excess of the Empire. Gaius, a tall, broad-shouldered youth with hair the colour of ripened wheat, stood on a hill overlooking the city, his heart pounding with anticipation.

By Jupiter, I’ve never seen anything like it, he whispered to himself, his eyes wide with wonder.

Beside him, his travel companion, a grizzled old veteran named Lucius, grunted in agreement. Aye, lad, Rome has that effect on people. But remember, she’s a beauty that can bite.

Gaius turned to Lucius, his expression earnest. I’m ready for whatever she throws at me. I’ve come to join the legions to make a name for myself.

Lucius eyed him with a mix of amusement and scepticism. Many come with the same dream, boy. Few realise what it truly means to wear the red.

Gaius was born into a modest family in a rural village nestled in the undulating hills of the Italian countryside.

His father, Lucius Maximus, was a respected farmer who worked tirelessly to provide for his family, instilling in Gaius a strong work ethic and a deep respect for the land. His mother, Aelia, was a wise and nurturing woman, known in the village for her herbal remedies and compassionate nature.

From a young age, Gaius was taught the importance of hard work and responsibility. His father trained him in the ways of farming – ploughing fields, tending to livestock, and harvesting crops. However, Lucius, who had once desired to enlist in the legions himself, also saw to it that Gaius received basic combat training. He taught Gaius how to handle a sword and shield, and shared stories of Rome’s greatest warriors, igniting in Gaius a desire for military glory.

Gaius was known in his village for his strength, both physical and of character. He was reliable, often helping his neighbours with difficult tasks, earning him respect and admiration. However, Gaius always felt a sense of restlessness, a longing for something beyond the village and the fields. His father’s tales of heroic legionnaires and the grandeur of Rome had planted in him a seed of ambition, a dream to achieve greatness and honour.

The turning point for Gaius came with the passing of his father. Lucius’s death was both a personal tragedy and a catalyst that spurred Gaius to pursue his own path. With his father’s dream unrealised, Gaius saw an opportunity to honour his memory by achieving what Lucius could not. He decided to leave his village and journey to Rome, with a determination to enlist in the legions and carve a name for himself in the annals of history.

Gaius’s arrival in Rome marked the beginning of his transformation from a village youth to a Roman soldier. His rural upbringing had prepared him physically and mentally for the challenges ahead, but nothing could have fully prepared him for the sights and sounds of the bustling capital of the Empire. It was in Rome that Gaius’s journey truly began, a journey that would test his strength, his courage, and his heart.

They made their way down the hill, the cacophony of the city growing louder with each step. The streets of Rome were a labyrinth of activity; merchants hawked their wares, patricians rode by in litters carried by slaves, and common folk hurried about their daily business. Gaius felt a thrill of excitement as he took it all in, the sights, the sounds, and even the pungent smells.

Their first stop was the recruitment centre, a bustling, austere building adorned with the banners of the legions. Young men from all over the Empire crowded the place, their faces a mixture of hope, fear, and determination.

Gaius and Lucius joined the queue. As they waited, Gaius observed the other recruits. Some were like him, farm boys seeking glory and adventure. Others were streetwise youths from the city, their eyes hard and calculating.

When it was his turn, Gaius stepped forward to be assessed by a stern-looking centurion, his chest adorned with medals. The centurion, a man named Decimus, examined Gaius with a critical eye.

What’s your name, boy? Decimus asked, his voice gruff.

Gaius Marius Maximus, sir, Gaius replied, trying to keep his voice steady.

Decimus looked him up and down. Ever held a sword, Gaius Marius Maximus?

Gaius nodded. Yes, sir. My father taught me.

Good, Decimus grunted. You’ll need more than farm skills where you’re headed. Stand over there. He pointed to a spot where other selected recruits were gathering.

The new recruits were herded to Campus Martius, a large area of public land in ancient Rome that functioned as a field for military training and exercises. Its name, meaning the Field of Mars, referencing the Roman god of war, signifying its military associations.

The Campus Martius was located outside the city’s formal boundary, providing ample space for physical activities and mock battles. It was also a place where triumphal processions and elections were held, making it a centre of both military and civic life.

The selection process was rigorous. Gaius underwent physical tests, demonstrating his strength and endurance. Gaius was first challenged with the weight lift. This involved lifting heavy stones, each progressively heavier than the last, to test raw physical strength. The stones were of various shapes and sizes, some smooth, others awkwardly shaped, requiring not just strength but also a good technique to grip and lift. Gaius, his muscles straining and sweat dripping down his brow, managed to lift even the heaviest of these stones, showcasing his farm-bred physical power.

Next came the endurance run. Recruits were required to run multiple laps around the large training field, which was equivalent to several Roman miles. The purpose of this test was to gauge their stamina and resilience. Gaius paced himself, aware that speed was less important than the ability to endure. His breath grew heavy, and his legs ached, but he pushed through, determined to complete the run without showing signs of exhaustion.

In the shield march, recruits had to carry a heavy wooden shield and a weighted pack, simulating the gear a soldier would carry in a march. This gruelling exercise tested both endurance and the ability to bear heavy loads over long distances. Gaius felt the weight digging into his shoulders and back, each step becoming harder than the last, but he kept his pace steady, focusing on the rhythm of his march.

The obstacle course was a series of physical challenges designed to test agility, balance, and strength. It included climbing over walls, crawling under nets, jumping ditches, and manoeuvring through mock battlements.

Gaius tackled each obstacle using a combination of determination and nimbleness, his body pushed to its limits as he climbed, crawled, and leaped.

Finally, Gaius faced the combat drill. Armed with a wooden gladius (sword) and scutum (shield), he engaged in one-on-one mock battles with other recruits. This test was not only a measure of his fighting skills but also of his ability to maintain these skills when fatigued. Gaius’s movements were precise and calculated, his strikes forceful yet controlled, demonstrating his potential as a capable warrior.

These tests were exhaustive and challenging, pushing Gaius to the brink of his physical limits. However, they were essential in proving his readiness to join the ranks of the Roman legion, a testament to his strength, endurance, and fighting spirit.

As the sun climbed higher in the sky, the group was whittled down. Some recruits were sent home, their dreams of glory dashed by the harsh reality of the legion’s demands.

Gaius pushed himself to the limit, determined not to be among those sent away. He felt a fierce sense of competition, a desire to prove himself not just to the centurions, but to his fellow recruits as well.

During a brief respite, Gaius found himself beside a young man of about his age, his face marked by a scar that ran from his brow to his jaw. The man introduced himself as Marcus, a street rat from the Subura.

You’ve got a good arm, Marcus said, nodding towards Gaius. But strength isn’t everything in the legion. You need to be cunning, too.

Gaius looked at him, his interest piqued. And you can teach me that?

Marcus grinned, the scar twisting with his smile. Stick with me, farm boy, and you’ll learn a thing or two about survival and women.

As the day wore on, the trials became more challenging. The final test was a mock battle, a chaotic melee where the recruits, split into two sides, were given wooden swords and shields.

The mock battle, a pivotal part of the legion recruitment process, was designed to test the recruits’ combat skills, strategic thinking, and ability to work as a unit. For Gaius, this was more than a test; it was a demonstration of his potential as a future legionary.

The mock battle took place in a large, open field just outside the recruitment centre, transformed into a makeshift battleground. The ground was uneven, with patches of grass and dirt, adding an element of unpredictability to the combatants’ footing. The late afternoon sun cast long shadows, adding a dramatic backdrop to the event.

The individuals were separated into two teams, each representing a ‘legion’. Gaius found himself in a group consisting of a blend of recruits from diverse backgrounds.

They were given time to discuss strategy, formulating a basic plan of attack and defence under the guidance of a centurion assigned to oversee each team.

Each recruit was equipped with a gladius made of wood and scutum, copies of the standard equipment of a Roman soldier. The weapons were blunt and designed for training, but they were heavy and required the skill to wield effectively.

At the signal, a loud blast from a horn, the mock battle commenced. The two teams charged towards each other with battle cries, their wooden swords raised and shields held forward. The initial clash was chaotic, a cacophony of wood striking wood and the shouts of young men seeking to impress the watching centurions.

Gaius, his heart pounding with adrenaline, quickly adapted to the frenzy. He used his shield not just defensively to block incoming blows, but also offensively to push back opponents. His strikes with the wooden gladius were calculated, aimed at exploiting gaps in his opponents’ defences. He moved with a surprising grace for his size, dodging blows and countering with swift precision.

As the battle progressed, the importance of teamwork became evident. Gaius and his teammates started to coordinate their efforts, forming shield walls to protect each other and using combined force to break through the enemy lines. They communicated through shouts and hand signals, adapting their strategy to the changing dynamics of the battle.

The recruits faced various challenges during the battle. At one point, Gaius’s team was ambushed from the flank, forcing them to quickly reorient their shield wall. Gaius found himself at the front line of this sudden shift, bravely holding off multiple attackers until his team could regroup.

The climax of the mock battle was a dramatic face-off between the two strongest recruits from each team – Gaius and a particularly large and aggressive opponent on the other side.

Their duel was a display of skill, strength, and determination, each seeking to gain the upper hand. Gaius, using a combination of strength and strategy, eventually managed to disarm his opponent, earning cheers from his team and a nod of approval from the overseeing centurions.

The battle ended with the signal from the head centurion, signalling the completion of the exercise. Both teams were exhausted, panting and sweating, but there was a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie among them.

Gaius, in particular, had proven himself to be not just a strong fighter, but a smart and adaptable one, qualities essential for a Roman legionary.

The simulated combat was a critical test for Gaius, one that he passed with flying colours, showcasing his talent as a future member of the Roman legions.

When the dust settled, Gaius stood panting, bruised but unbeaten.

Decimus approached him, his expression inscrutable.

You’ve got the makings of a soldier, Gaius, Decimus said, clapping him on the shoulder. Welcome to the legions.

Gaius felt a surge of pride. He had done it. He was now a recruit of Rome, a step closer to becoming a legend, like the heroes he had grown up hearing about.

That night, as he lay in the barracks among the other new recruits, Gaius couldn’t help but feel that his life had just begun. He had come to Rome a boy, but he would leave a legionary. And his story, the story of Gaius Marius Maximus, was just starting to unfold.

The city of Rome, with all its glory and danger, lay before him, and he was ready to meet it head-on.

The Legion's Call

Dawn broke over the Roman military camp with a crisp chill in the air. The camp, a sprawling complex of tents, training fields, and wooden fortifications, buzzed with the disciplined activity of a legion at the heart of the Empire. Gaius, now officially a recruit, stood at the edge of the training field, taking in the sight of his new world.

Around him, the other recruits murmured nervously, their breaths visible in the cool morning air. Gaius, dressed in a simple tunic and carrying his new wooden training sword and shield, felt a surge of excitement mixed with apprehension.

A gruff voice cut through the morning haze. Line up, recruits! Your life as legionnaires starts now!

The voice belonged to Centurion Aelius, a seasoned veteran with a stern face and piercing eyes, who would be their trainer and mentor.

Aelius was born into a family of modest means in a small town near Rome. Since he was a child, this fascination turned into a calling, and at a young age, he enlisted in the Roman army, determined to carve out a legacy of his own.

Aelius’s early years in the legion were marked by a relentless drive to excel. He was known for his discipline, tactical acumen, and an unwavering commitment to his duties. These qualities, coupled with a natural skill in combat, saw him rise through the ranks.

His ascent from a common soldier to the rank of centurion was both rapid and well-deserved, marked by several notable achievements in various campaigns across the Empire.

Centurion Aelius was a stern and demanding leader, shaped by the rigours and realities of military life. He was known among the troops for his tough, no-nonsense approach to training and discipline. However, his harsh exterior belied a deep concern for the welfare and success of his men. He believed strongly in the virtues of honour, duty, and loyalty to Rome, values he sought to instil in his recruits.

Throughout his career, Aelius has participated in numerous campaigns, earning accolades for his bravery and strategic brilliance. He has a reputation as a skilled warrior and a shrewd tactician.

His experiences in various parts of the Empire, from the dense forests of Germania to the deserts of Africa, endowed him with a wealth of knowledge and experience, which he brought to his role as a trainer of new recruits.

Away from the battlefield, Aelius was a private man, with few indulgences or vices. He was devoted to his family, though his duty often kept him away from home for long periods. His philosophy revolved around the idea that the strength of Rome lies not just in its legions, but in the character and discipline of its soldiers. He viewed his role as a centurion not just as a military position, but as a custodian of Roman values and traditions.

For recruits like Gaius, Centurion Aelius was both a mentor and a figure of authority. His training methods were tough, but were designed to prepare them for the harsh realities of life in the legions. He was respected, and sometimes feared, but always looked up to for guidance and wisdom.

The recruits quickly formed a line, standing at attention.

Greetings to the legions, Aelius began, his voice echoing across the field. I am Centurion Aelius, and I will make soldiers out of you. You will learn to battle as a unit. Dismiss any notion of glory and honour for now; your focus is to survive and obey.

Gaius listened intently; his eyes fixed on the centurion. He felt a knot of determination form in his stomach. He was ready for whatever training lay ahead.

The first order of the day was an exercise regimen meticulously crafted to test and improve their stamina and strength.

The day started with a long-distance run, often stretching several Roman miles. This exercise was not just about building endurance; it also served to foster mental resilience and discipline. The recruits, carrying a full pack that simulated the weight of their armour and gear, were led through varying terrains – from the rolling hills surrounding the camp to rough, uneven trails that tested their agility and footwork.

After the run, the recruits engaged in a series of callisthenics. This included a rigorous set of push-ups, sit-ups, and squats, designed to build core strength and muscular endurance.

These exercises were performed in quick succession, with minimal rest between sets, pushing the recruits to their physical limits.

Mid-morning was reserved for combat drills. This involved practicing manoeuvres with their shields and wooden swords, simulating the movements and techniques used in battle.

The drills were repetitive and exhaustive, ensuring the recruits could perform these movements instinctively. These exercises also enhanced their hand-eye coordination and reaction times.

Post combat drills, the recruits were subjected to load-carrying exercises. They were required to carry heavy sacks or materials over a set distance, replicating the experience of carrying supplies or injured comrades.

This was followed by formation marching, where the recruits learned to move in unison while maintaining their formation – an essential skill for Roman legionnaires.

The training regimen also included an obstacle course, which the recruits had to navigate as quickly as possible. This course consisted of climbing high walls, manoeuvring under make-shift nets, leaping over trenches, and balancing on beams over water.

It was designed to improve their physical agility, balance, and overall fitness.

In the afternoon, the recruits engaged in wrestling and other forms of hand-to-hand combat. This training was crucial for close-quarters combat skills and also helped build physical strength and endurance.

The most challenging part of the regimen was running the gauntlet. Recruits had to pass through a narrow path flanked by their fellow soldiers, who would strike them with sticks and the flat sides of swords. This brutal exercise was meant to toughen them up and prepare them for the chaos and pain of real battle.

Gaius pushed his body to the limits, his muscles burning with exertion. He glanced around at his fellow recruits; some were struggling to keep up, while others, like Marcus, the streetwise youth from the Subura, moved with a lean efficiency.

During a short break when the recruits were given bread as a lunch, Gaius found himself next to a recruit named Titus, a stocky young man with an easy smile. Thought I was fit from working the fields, Gaius panted, but this is something else.

Titus laughed, wiping sweat from his brow. You’ll get used to it. Just wait until we start the weapon drills.

Their conversation was cut short as Centurion Aelius called them to attention. The next phase of training was about to begin.

The afternoon was dedicated to weapon training. The recruits were paired off to practise sword and shield techniques. Gaius found himself facing a burly recruit named Drusus, who wielded his wooden sword with a brutish force.

Gaius circled Drusus cautiously, parrying and striking in equal measure. He remembered his father’s teachings, using skill and technique over brute force.

Their wooden swords clacked loudly as they engaged in a vigorous sparring session.

Good form, Maximus! shouted Centurion Aelius, observing their duel. But don’t forget to keep your shield up. defence is as important as offense.

Gaius nodded, adjusting his stance. The training was intense, but he could feel himself improving with every strike and block.

As the sun began to set, casting long shadows over the camp, the recruits gathered for a final briefing. They sat on the ground, exhausted but exhilarated from the day’s training.

This is just the beginning, Aelius addressed them. You will learn to fight, to strategise, and most importantly, to survive. The life of a legionnaire is demanding, but it is also rewarding. You fight for Rome, for the glory of the Empire.

The centurion’s words stirred something in Gaius. He felt a sense of pride swelling within him. He was part of something greater now, a cog in the mighty machine of Rome.

As night fell, the recruits retired to their tents, after filling their bellies in the communal eating tent, which were shared with other recruits, fostering camaraderie and teamwork. Each recruit had a small space for himself, marked by a simple woollen blanket or animal skin laid on the ground, serving as a bed. A small, rugged sack filled with straw or cloth scraps acted as a pillow. belongings were minimal.

Gaius had a cloth sack where he kept his few possessions – a change of tunics, a cloak for colder nights, a small personal grooming kit and personal mementos he brought from home, such as a small carving and a family token.

In a corner of the tent, his training sword and shield were stored. These were crucial elements of his daily life and training. As he progressed in his training, this would also include his armour – lorica segmentata (segmented armour), a helmet, and greaves.

For light, there would be a small oil lamp, providing dim illumination during the night hours. Heating was minimal, with recruits relying on their cloaks and blankets for warmth.

The mainstay of Gaius’s diet was a wheat or barley porridge called ‘puls.’ This porridge was often accompanied by small amounts of meat (when available), cheese, or vegetables. Bread was also a common staple, sometimes dipped in wine or vinegar to add flavour.

Meat, when provided, was usually in the form of salted pork or beef. Legionnaires were sometimes given a ration of bacon or cured meats. On occasions, they might have access to fresh meat, which was a luxury.

Vegetables like lentils, beans, onions, and garlic were part of the diet and were usually boiled or stewed.

These provided essential nutrients and variation in their otherwise monotonous diet.

Fruits, such as apples, figs, and grapes, were consumed when in season or available. Olive oil and vinegar were used in cooking and as condiments.

The common drink was ‘posca,’ a mixture of vinegar and water, which was refreshing and helped to stave off disease. On occasion, recruits might have access to a diluted wine.

Meals were communal, eaten at designated times in the mess area of the camp. This communal eating helped to reinforce unity and discipline among the recruits.

Sharing the tent with Gaius was Marcus Atilius. Hailing from the bustling streets of Rome’s Subura district, Marcus was streetwise and agile. He grew up in a tough neighbourhood, learning to fend for himself since he was little. His quick thinking and adaptability made him a valuable ally, though his past life also instilled in him a certain wariness and cunning.

Titus Flavius, a farmer’s son from a rural area in the picturesque Italian region, much like Gaius. He was robust and good-natured, with a strong work ethic ingrained from years of labouring on his family’s farm. Titus was loyal and dependable, often serving as a mediator when tensions arise among the recruits.

Drusus Calvus, a burly and somewhat abrasive young man from the northern provinces, Drusus had a natural strength and a no-nonsense attitude. He was competitive and could be confrontational, but also fiercely protective of his fellow recruits. His physical prowess was unmatched, making him a formidable sparring partner.

Lucius Verus, a bit of an enigma. He came from a well-to-do family and was more educated than most of his tent mates. He was reserved and spoke little of his past, but his intelligence and strategic thinking became apparent during training exercises. Lucius often kept to himself, but he was observant and insightful.

Gnaeus Septimus was the youngest member of the group and the most inexperienced. Coming from a small coastal village, he was somewhat naive about the wider world. He was eager to prove himself and looked up to Gaius and the other more experienced recruits. Gnaeus was enthusiastic and quick to learn, with a determination that belied his youth.

Decimus Brutus, another recruit from a more urban background, was ambitious and sought to rise through the ranks as quickly as possible. He was skilled with the sword and had a certain charm, but was also known to be manipulative, always looking for ways to gain an advantage.

Together, these recruits formed a microcosm of Rome’s legion’s diversity, coming from various walks of life but united by their common goal of serving Rome.

Gaius lay awake, reflecting on the day. The training had been harsh, but he felt a deep sense of purpose. He was no longer just a farm boy; he was a recruit in the Roman legions, and his journey to becoming a legionnaire had truly begun.

In the darkness of the tent, Gaius thought of his father, hoping to make him proud. He closed his eyes, drifting to sleep to the sounds of the camp – the distant chatter of soldiers, the crackling of fires, and the ever-present sense of disciplined order. The world of a warrior awaited him, and he was prepared to embrace it.

First Blood

The Roman camp was abuzz with urgent activity as a group of legionnaires, including Gaius and his fellow recruits, were hastily assembled by Centurion Aelius.

Word had spread of local brigands harassing a nearby village, and a detachment was being sent to deal with the threat. This would be Gaius’s first real engagement, and his heart pounded with a mix of excitement and apprehension.

Listen up! barked Centurion Aelius, his eyes scanning the group. We have bandits causing trouble. We’re to put an end to it. Remember your training, stay alert, and follow my lead. This is no drill; these are real swords and real danger.

The recruits nodded, their expressions a mix of determination and nervousness.

Gaius gripped his temporary sword tightly, feeling its weight as a sobering reminder of the task ahead.

The march to the village was tense but swift. The legionnaires moved in formation, their armour clinking softly with each step. Gaius could feel the adrenaline coursing through his veins, his senses heightened to every sound and movement around him.

As they neared the village, the signs of brigand activity became evident. Fields trampled, homes ransacked, a