A Duel

I face the young chieftain,and we circle around each slowly as everyone moves away to give us space to fight.

My short sword and his long knife are equally matched and the way he holds his knife tells me that he has used it many times before.

He lunges at me stabbing his knife at my chest,it takes all of my skill to block his blade.Before he can make another move i sprint forward and slash at his shoulders,but he moves back quickly.I continue on the offensive and punch him in the chest and make quick hits on his entire body.Unable to stand against my barrage,the young man falls to the ground.

His men are to stunned to react,and i lean on my sword grasping for air.And that is the difference between a Legionary and a common bandit i think to myself smugly.

The Chieftain gets up with the help of his men.And introduces himself as the former Prince Gaius Ocatavi and asks you for your help in deposing the usurper emperor by assassinating him,as he already knows who you are.

It is apparent to you that not all men in the new government are supportive of the emperor and you have to wonder what would happen to you if you go as the governor to the province only to hear that the present emperor has been deposed and a warrant for your ARREST issued.