A Soul Rewoven

Chapter 3. Beyond the Horizons

Scene 11 Rising to the Call

The morning sun ascended over Arvena, casting its radiant glow upon the wide cobbled streets bustling with people. Among those moving through the city was Knight-Captain Roselia Marcella Corvinus. Rose strode purposefully towards the personal abode of her commanding officer, Tribune Marcus Valerius. Her breakfast at the barracks had been interrupted by an urgent summons, a mild annoyance, but her spirits remained high. She held hopes for an intriguing assignment, a welcome departure from the monotonous months she had spent stationed in Arvena. Yet, cautious not to raise her expectations too high, Rose was well aware of the tranquil nature of this Empire region and the strained relationship she shared with Tribune Marcus, who seemed to relish opportunities to make her suffer.

Soon, Rose arrived at the mansion. The main gate swung open, and she was granted entry with a half-hearted salute from the guards. If time permitted, she would have reprimanded these apathetic legionaries for their negligence. Clad in lightweight leather armor with reinforced chain mail in strategic places, her steps weren't the quietest, and her armor emitted a faint rattle. Yet, another guard stationed near her destination failed to notice her approach, caught in idle conversation with a female scribe.

"Caius, do your damn job!" Rose's voice was sharp as she addressed the legionary by name, a result of the limited personnel in the local garrison, a mere two hundred strong. "The tribune summoned me urgently," she continued, a hint of annoyance tinging her voice. She was aware of the precarious nature of disciplining legionaries, given her past run-ins with Tribune Marcus. Still, as a tall woman with a muscular build and an intense gaze, Rose's mere presence was enough to jolt Caius to his feet, snapping him into an immediate salute.

"Of course, madam. Please follow me." Caius quickly adjusted his stance, leading Rose towards the room she sought. Soon, they arrived in a large room filled with shelves bearing various papers, scrolls, and tablets. There, a man sat behind a table. However, this man wasn't the tribune; he was Maximus Corvus, the head scribe of the local garrison. Maximus, a veteran of the legion now relegated to administrative duties due to his age and injuries, had a robust build and displayed a scar that snaked along his neck – a testament to his days on the battlefield. Rose admired him for his unwavering work ethic and unyielding dedication.

"Ah, welcome," Maximus greeted, his voice warm yet his eyes betraying an icy demeanor. He gestured towards the door. "Caius, return to your post. I'll take it from here."

Caius saluted and departed, leaving Rose alone with Maximus. "How have you been?" Rose inquired, her tone softer now as she relaxed in his presence. "And how's Octavia?"

Maximus's expression immediately brightened, his eyes dancing with life. "Octavia's doing well, thank you. And I'm quite content too, but we'll have to catch up later." He grunted slightly as he stood up from behind the large desk, using a crutch for support as he approached Rose.

"Tribune wants to see you," Maximus informed her, his voice hushed and hurried. "And considering his disposition towards you, this could be challenging. He's in a foul mood today, so be careful."

"I'll be fine," Rose replied, appreciating Maximus's candid warning.

"I'm sure you will," Maximus chuckled lightly, motioning for Rose to follow him as he led her to the door that led to the tribune's workspace. "By the way, did you witness the falling star last night?" he inquired as they walked.

"Yes, I did. It was rather terrifying to watch it streak across the sky above the city. The sound it produced was haunting," Rose confessed, a genuine note of concern in her voice.

"Did the prospect of adventure not entice you?" Maximus gave her an understanding glance, and Rose simply smiled in response as they reached the door.

Maximus knocked loudly and entered the room, disappearing from Rose's sight for a moment. He reappeared shortly after. "He's ready to see you now."