Lucius walked over to the emperor’s right where a large leather map was stretched between two posts.
“The forts of Doune, Alauna, and Strageath, I left heavily manned, while my own ala units have been based at Bertha here.” Lucius pointed. “Between each of these are a chain of thinly manned fortlets and watchtowers which have now been reinforced by the incoming legions.”
“What of this fort?” Caracalla said, pointing to Fendoch where it lay isolated at the foot of the highlands.
“I did send a turmae of my best men to scout as far as Fendoch, sire. When they did not return, I rode out myself and found them…” Lucius felt his throat tighten at the memory of the tree and fought back the anger that rose in him, the feeling of failure.
No weakness! he chided himself. “The Caledonii had ambush
