One day fate decides to smile on Brennus. He’s hunting in the woods when he is almost seen by a group of Roman soldiers returning to their encampment. He hides until they pass, then decides to bathe in the nearby stream. Naked, he finds a mossy rock on which to lie while the sun dries and warms him. It isn’t long before his instincts tell him he isn’t alone. He discovers a soldier watching him and leaps to his feet, ready to fight. But fighting is the last thing Cyprian, the handsome Roman soldier, has on his mind. Over time the men become lovers, finding happiness in a world gone mad. They agree to meet regularly and for a time, they do. Until one day Brennus is captured by the Romans. Where is Cyprian? Didn’t he see his handsome soldier as he was being led into the encampment? Or will he ultimately be betrayed?

His Pagan Love

There were womenfolk, and children. Nudity seemed optional, with some of the villagers walking around naked, painted in blue patterns, while others wore tunics, boots, and cloaks, or combinations thereof.


“Should we introduce ourselves?” asked Cyprian.


“How?” said Brennus. “Neither they nor we can understand a word the other says.”


“Besides,” Brennus continued. “Meeting us on the beach isn’t as threatening as meeting them in their own village. They might not take kindly to it.”


Together they resumed their hunt for sustenance.


“How long will we be here, do you think?” asked Cyprian as they examined the nearby berry bushes for fruit.


“You should know the answer better than me,” said Brennus. “How long will they keep looking for you? How long before they forget about you and find something better to do with their time?”


Chapter 19