Hosker, G [Sword of Cartimandua 04] Roman Retreat by Griff Hosker

hordes in the safety of the grounds of Marcus’ new villa. “I will be staying a few days and then I will return north to give your husband the news of his promotion.  By the end of the month I will be here with my family, permanently.”
    By the time Marcus reached Alavna he could see the work which had already been completed.  There was now a double ditch surrounding the fort as well as two extra towers on the valley sides. The lower palisades had been faced with stone and the towers inside the fort strengthened.  The ala fort was the largest Marcus had seen except for the huge legionary ones at Deva and Eboracum, and he nodded in approval as he rode up to the porta Decumana. He was pleased when the sentry, whom he recognised shouted down.  “Halt! Identify yourself and your business.”
    “Tribune Marcus Aurelius Maximunius here to speak with the senior officer.”
    Hiding his surprise at the title the trooper shouted, “Open the gates you may enter.”
    As a trooper took his horse Marcus was pleased to see an old friend limping towards him.  Agrippa had been a weapon trainer and decurion before he was badly wounded in the battles against the Caledonii; as the quartermaster of Marcus’ Horse he could still do a good job and yet remain with his old friends and comrades.
    “Good to see you sir. Did I hear correctly?  You are a Tribune now?”
    “In a manner of speaking yes but it is purely honorary. Is the ala on patrol?”
    The grim look on Agrippa’s face told a story without the need for words. “Aye it takes all the turmae just to keep the road open between here and the north.  I fear that the losses may make that impossible soon.”
    “We have been losing men?”
    “Not a great number but every patrol results in injured or dead troopers.  We were already under strength and now… But let us not stand here. Come in and I will give you refreshments while I give you the whole story.” Agrippa was half way through his report when Tribune Sura entered. “I am sure the Tribune can carry on with the news sir.  If you will excuse me I will arrange your accommodation and have your things put away.”
    “Thank you Agrippa.”
    When they were alone Sura shook his head.  “It has only been a few weeks Marcus but things are getting much worse.”
    “Agrippa was telling me.”
    “I am not sure how long we can hold on to the northern forts.  We are losing too many men and they are indefensible. Until we get more replacements…”
    “I know. There is no sign of the Governor’s promised troops.”
    The Tribune shrugged. “It takes time.  We have no facilities to train them here.  That will be, I am afraid, your job and Decius of course.”
    “I suspect it will be more Decius’ role than mine.”
    “How is he coping with his new post?”
    “Loving it.  He knows every trick that soldiers have tried, mainly because he has tried them himself at some time.  Before Ulpius Felix took him in hand he was the biggest villain in the ala.  The fort is so well run, it is frightening.  I never realised how house proud he is.”
    They both laughed.  “I take it you are here to make the promotions?”
    “Yes.  How has it worked out with Gaius as Decurion Princeps?”
    “Very well. It suits him. Macro still races off into danger whenever possible so your decision not to appoint him has been vindicated and I have been watching young Demetrius.  The assessment you and Decius made of him was accurate in every way.  I am very impressed.  He could be a First Spear for me any time. He will make a good prefect.  It just depends how the others take it.”
    “If Decius and I have read the situation aright then they should all be happy.” He shrugged.  “We will fight out later.  Will you join us?”
    “I would love to.  Do you mind if I bring over a couple of my Centurions.  I would like them to see how well your officers work together. My lads are good soldiers but, and it galls me to say this, not as