The Chinese and the Barbarians (Story 02)

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by mapingzuo

by mapingzuo

In Margiana, the eastern border of the Parthian Empire, Marcus is once again in the front line. Weakened from a march of over 2000 kilometers across the merciless steppes, they are no match for the Hun horsemen, who have perfectly mastered the technique of the Parthian maneuver, of darting to the rear at full gallop.

From the Huns, Marcus experiences torture and humiliation, but also a chance to survive - teaching the Roman combat skills. This he is to use in the fight against the Chinese army. In the camp, he meets Gaius and Chan, into whom he falls in love - without knowing who she is.

Marcus despises people like Gaius, who would sell their souls for a bargain. He kills the Chinese emperor's negotiators who want to ransom the two prisoners and sends their heads back. General Huo sends 40,000 men led by his nephew Gan Yen-Shou, to finally end the conflict. Despite the turtle formation (testudo), organized by Marcus and his men, the Chinese overrun the Hun lines. They free Gaius and Chan, who is accused of high treason by General Huo.

Gan tells his uncle about the courageous barbarians, who do not run blindly and brainlessly into battle, as they usually do. That is why he had spared them - perhaps they can teach more about the art of warfare.

The situation at the emperor's court continues to escalate. General Huo wants to depose the emperor. He wants to have him eliminated by assassins disguised as Huns. Gaius witnesses this plot and blackmails General Huo. He wants compensation for the lost gold. One of the general's concubines seduces Gaius and poisons him.

Chan is pardoned if she marries Gan. He will then be appointed the new emperor. But Chan does not want to and hopes for the help of Marcus, who can prevent the assassination of Xuandi and convict the general.

Now Marcus must lead the imperial guard against Gan's troops to save the emperor. After a romantic night with Chan, he enters the battle again - and is victorious. He kills Gan and puts his troops on the run. Marcus and his followers settle in the border town of Liqian.

Marcus marries Chan, but then the Huns are again at the gates of the city...