“Praefectus!” Barta’s deep voice called out as he rushed up behind the group, passing them all to stand beside Lucius.
“How dare you draw your weapon on me!” Crescens hissed.
“Crescens, calm down!” Virgilio Carcer said, his hands pulling at his fellow ordo member.
“How dare you approach me like an angry mob!” Lucius roared.
Barta stood close beside Lucius and whispered. “Praefectus. He is no warrior. More trouble than it’s worth.” Barta noticed the look in Lucius’ eyes and reached up slowly to still his extended arm. “Your family is in the town, sir. They wait for us.”
Lucius lowered his sword and stepped forward, closer to Crescens and Carcer. “If you have business with me, then speak it.”
Crescens turned and beckoned his son. “You and one of your men attacked my son and his friends
