That made Lucius even more angry, and he was about to scream when Numa spoke up.
“The only strange thing that happens occasionally is that…well…from time to time, two men come to look around the place.”
“What men?” Lucius asked.
“They say they work for one of the neighbouring estates, but after so long, I know a Praetorian spy when I see one.”
“Spies?” Phoebus asked.
“Yes,” Numa said. “They come every month or so. Threaten Prisca and myself, look around the ruins, and then leave.”
“It’s as if they’re trying to make sure of something,” Prisca added.
“We’re not afraid of them anymore,” Numa said. “The troops had done their worst.”
“What do they want?” Lucius said.
“They ask where you are, Master Lucius.”
“Where I am?”
“Like Prisca said. It’s as if they’re trying to make sure of so
