Caledonian advocates

15

Simon was told by the troops that they were send to rescue them. He was also informed about the troop's suspicion towards the leader of the operation. Simon didn't inform the troops about Kaith, Anika and the queen. He instead requested them to provide the ships with sufficient supplies. After the ships were anchored at the tiny island, Simon landed on the island. There he grasped some berries and ate them. In the bushes his eyes fell upon a chest. The chest looked quite old. When he broke it open he found it filled with golden Roman coins that were minted in Gaul. The coins dated from the late rule of Augustus. It was filled with around 1200 Aureus. There was a letter attached to it. The letter was written in Romanised Celtic

'This is a fifth tribute from the Province Aquitania towards Chieftain Ludoyahu and his Parisian wife Thea. This money comes from the Aquitanian taxation treasury and it's meant as an investment from the Aquitanian leaders into the client city state Jehuda town, which is a loyal ally of Rome and of the Gaulish people'. 

The coins were still in a perfect condition after 102 years covered by bushes and sand. Simon dragged the treasure with him unto the ship and brought it to the tiny library - which he made into his bedroom. He didn't find Kaith into the hidden wardrobe. He saw that the queen was still sleeping. At this moment Simon realised how blessed he was. It occurred to him that no matter how bad the circumstances around here were he always ended up discovering some hidden 'treasure'. This time it was a literal physical treasure.

At land, Vesius and his colleague were ready to sail towards Caledonia. One of the men wanted to visit the tiny island first. They agreed to do this. 

Simon, looking from deck, saw a ship coming towards them. When ship arrived Simon greeted them. The soldiers were gone gathering supplies. 

'Salve! Brethren! I greet you!'

'Sesterus Vesius! Commander at the Batavan fleet!'

'Soldier. It's an honour to meet you. I'm Hebraicus Alheus Ravennus, treasurer of King Arvid II of Caledonia. I'm stationed here to guard the finances of Queen consort Silvana and her crew.'

'Sir Hebraicus! Great to meet you! Your crew has been rescued on command of the Rhine legions. There is also an attack happening in the South of Scandia at this time. We need to warn your lord about this...'

'Gentlemen. I'm glad you made it here' He gave both men 40 Aureus 'This is a gift of thanksgiving on behalf of Arvid II. Your soldiers are returning soon with supplies for these ships. I invite you on board to sail with us towards Caledonia. You can make your case before the King once arrived. Meanwhile, enjoy the hospitality on board'. 

The men accepted the offer. Shortly afterwards the soldiers returned with food, oil and firewood. The soldiers were permitted by Vesius to remain on board. At this time, Simon began wondering where Anika and Kaith were...