Three years following the destruction of Legio XXI in Pannonia, former Tribune Tiberius Artorius Castus and retired Centurion Primus Ordo Gavius Lucifer arrive in Rome. Their political fortunes rest in their letters of introduction from the revered general and Governor of Pannonia and Upper Germania, Marcus Ulpius Trajan.
Tiberius and Lucifer return to the Eternal City as growing turmoil engulfs the imperial court. Emperor Domitian's paranoia remains unabated, his spies ever watchful for any sign of disloyalty. Despite his loathing and fear of potential usurpers, danger lurks not within the halls of the senate, but at the very seat of power.
As the two former soldiers embark on a life far removed from the Danube frontier, they remain ever mindful of Trajan's cautionary advice; that Roman politics are deadlier than the most fearsome enemy warrior.
