Just then, Gaius saw Demetrios fall from the wagon as a barbarian grabbed the reins.
“Daxos!” Gaius sliced at an attacker’s face and pushed past to pursue the wagon as it plunged down the forest road.
The wagon careened over fallen logs, bouncing into the air and landing with a bone-jarring crash before speeding on. Inside, Daxos huddled under the furs, gripping his pugio. Then they hit another log and the rear wheels exploded. With a cry, Daxos fell back.
The driver heard him and looked back. With the horses still charging, the barbarian stood and stepped to the back, his blade over his head to strike.
Daxos sprung up with the dagger and caught the man’s knee.
The barbarian howled with rage and leaned in to strike Daxos just as a pilum broke into his sternum and sent him flying to th
