The following is a complete work of fiction inspired by Roman history, with a strong fantasy aspect for the use of artistic license. The original story which was previously posted on Literotica has been completely revamped, so the folks who have been following the story might want to go back and re-read from Chapter 1. The idea of intrigue, betrayal and a power struggle are the still the same. However, entire new passages and parts have been added and some omitted. What was once Chapter 3 is now broken up and will be incorporated into Chapters 4, 5 and 6.
Hopefully if you enjoyed the original, you will still enjoy this one. For those who wrote to me about this series regarding its lack of overly explicit sexual content, I will state for your peace of mind that it is NOT a stroke story. If that interests you, you'd be better off reading something else.
Disclaimer:
The following story may contain erotic situations between consenting adults. If it is illegal for you to read this please leave now. Please do not copy or distribute the story without the author's permission.
Important -
Please feel free to send any feedback or comments through PM or you email me. I appreciate you taking two seconds to vote or leave a comment. And as always thanks to the people who have continued asking for this story and inspired me to do so.
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The sudden death of Celaenia's King had shocked the country and with no heir named, times were strained. Portia knew that whispers were already starting in dark corners about political upheaval, putting her at the center of a very dangerous power struggle. Her pieces had to be put into play carefully, no possibility dismissed as trivial. Trust was a precious gift she could not afford even with those who voiced their support of her. Friends held favor with her only as long as they proved useful. She had to ensure her position, and had begun her game with Commodus and Sirrus. She would continue with the High Council, having set a time for a meeting with them tomorrow where she intended to announce her plans to wed Marcus to gain their confidence and approval. They were a bunch of doddering old men, but if she could gain their support she would have the city in her hand.
Gray eyes moved over the great hall, lingering on the couples dancing and partaking in the pleasures that the soldiers had been denied for the three years they had been away. She had orchestrated an elaborate feast in honor of Marcus's homecoming to gain the favor of the legions and the people. Food and drink had been provided for everyone in the city, the sound of people rejoicing in the streets was heard through the open windows.
Inside the palace, the musicians were playing, the wine flowed freely. The subdued ambiance which had lingered since the death of the king was replaced by the hopeful celebration at the legions' return and the dawn of a new era for Celaenia. Portia had encouraged a sense of luxury, presiding over the festivities with more confidence than she felt. There were many who smiled at her, yet she knew they silently doubted her ability to lead the Empire.
Celaenia was at war, though it was a quiet, internal warfare. Tonight was only the first of many battles, which Portia planned to win. Failure was not an option when there was so much at stake.
"Things are going well, Portia. You have surprised me."
Portia glanced at Commodus as he appeared at her side. Her eyes narrowed at the amusement he seemed to find at her expense, but she shrugged gracefully.
"I will take that as a compliment Commodus. Having seen so very many years in this world, surprising you seems quite the feat."
She smiled, sipping from her chalice, enjoying a moment of pleasure in his irritation.
"I am pleased. Things are proceeding according to plan. Sirrus is garnering support for me within the city's legions. This feast tonight will help to solidify that support, showing my respect for the military and the hardships they have experienced fighting for this country. With the legions' full support, I am one step closer to complete control over Celaenia."
"You are becoming quite the politician, Portia. I'm pleased to see that you are finding new ways to expand your hold. Your charms are many, but I doubt that even you can spread wide enough to service an entire country."
Portia's cheeks flood with color as she looked at the old man who smiled through his insult. Her palm stung, nails cutting into the tender flesh as she curled one hand into a fist at her side.
"I live for my country, Commodus. Fortunately I am young enough to have the luxury of enjoying her and her triumphs for many more years. Not all can say that."
"Very true, Portia." He looked amused as he placed his hand on her elbow to guide her away from the crowd to speak to her privately for a moment. They stood by a pillar apart from the crowd in view of the door.
He spoke quietly. "I spoke to Julian and Gregorius of the High Council today. They doubt your ability to rule alone, but they can sway the others if they are properly convinced. They have requests of their own to make."
"I have no doubt they do, but I have several requests as well. It will be interesting to see what agreement we come to."
Commodus nodded, his gaze moving throughout the crowded room. He seemed to vibrate with restless energy.
"I have set up private meetings tomorrow with trusted members of my council. They know of my support of you and they are in support of me."
"Interesting. I too have a meeting scheduled. The High Council wishes to know what my next step will be and I have decided to announce my intention to wed Marcus."
Disbelief flooded the old man's face, a grizzled brow arching.
"You surprise me, my dear. Marcus has been in the city for less than a day and you have already begun extending your web."
"Is that not what you wanted? The High Council has already made their happiness at his return evident. If Marcus expressed a desire for the throne, they would be in support of it. As his wife they will be in support of me as well."
"Very true. I must admit I am surprised that Marcus so readily accepted your proposal."
The statement hung, Portia's silence making him glance over at her. She was looking at the dancers; color high in her cheeks, lips pressed tightly together.
"You have not asked him have you?"
"I have not yet seen my cousin, Commodus. But I am confident that he will agree that it is the best possible solution."
"Confidence is a fine quality, Portia, but at times it is simply a word for stupidity."
"I know my cousin better than you do, Commodus. Marcus desires the happiness of the country and its people. If he believes that Celaenia will benefit from his acceptance of the throne, his duty will leave him no other option."
"If I were a gambling man, I would take that wager, but as it is, I will settle for learning of his answer."
Portia's reply was cut off by the sound of trumpets. Silence swept over the crowds and Portia turned slowly, tensing when she saw Marcus step into the main hall. For a moment, no one moved; all eyes were on the serious man who stood a head taller than most others in the room.
Marcus arched a brow, feeling the weight of all that he had run from for so long settling upon his shoulders.