The Roman Years

The Roman Empire had conquered much of the then known world but its borders were always a concern because of rebellion by local tribes. Legions were sent to quell them and so a constant need of replacement soldiers was always required to keep control. Britannia and Germania were two such borders. Lucius Portilus, a trusted Senior Centurion with the Praetorian Guard and a friend of Emperor Trajan, has been sent to Cyprus to recruit and train a new Legion. He was a tall strong man who led his troops from the front. His ability with a bow was incredible, the power with which the arrow was sent to its target and the distance it flew, was unsurpassed. He had quickly risen through the ranks and was soon noticed by the Emperor and transferred to his personal body guard. Lucius now held the highest Centurion Rank, Primus Pilus. His career was on the up and with Trajan’s patronage he could go all the way to General. But as time went on this perfect Roman started to have nightmares. Dreams of a past he did not recognise. Voices started calling him. A recurring vision of a warrior in a dark cloak and carrying a shield emblazoned with a Phoenix. Who was this man and what did it have to do with Lucius.

The Roman Empire had conquered much of the then known world but its borders were always a concern because of rebellion by local tribes. Legions were sent to quell them and so a constant need of replacement soldiers was always required to keep control. Britannia and Germania were two such borders. Lucius Portilus, a trusted Senior Centurion with the Praetorian Guard and a friend of Emperor Trajan, has been sent to Cyprus to recruit and train a new Legion. He was a tall strong man who led his troops from the front. His ability with a bow was incredible, the power with which the arrow was sent to its target and the distance it flew, was unsurpassed. He had quickly risen through the ranks and was soon noticed by the Emperor and transferred to his personal body guard. Lucius now held the highest Centurion Rank, Primus Pilus. His career was on the up and with Trajan’s patronage he could go all the way to General. But as time went on this perfect Roman started to have nightmares. Dreams of a past he did not recognise. Voices started calling him. A recurring vision of a warrior in a dark cloak and carrying a shield emblazoned with a Phoenix. Who was this man and what did it have to do with Lucius.

Ron Richardson has had a varied career including serving with the Army as a marine engineer and with the Royal Air force His enduring love of the ancient world prompted him to write these books. From the Author. I would like to say thank you to friends and family for their help and support during the writing of the books, especially to Grace Bliss who has read both so far and has given me good feedback. I must also say thank you to my wife, Sheila ,without whose help and encouragement I would not have made it this far. The following Historical Sites are just a few from which I gathered inspiration and knowledge: Flag Fen Bronze Age Site – Peterborough Corbridge Roman Site – Northumberland Hadrians’ Wall – various sites along the route. A must go place to visit for all history lovers of ancient Britain. Fishbourne Palace – Chichester