Chapter 343 - 222 Alde’s Request
Marcus Antonius was the model for Cicero. This ancestor, who also came from humble beginnings, relied on his oratory talent to ultimately become a Roman Governor, though he met his end during the period of rebellion initiated by Marius. Because of this, Cicero harbored a deep hatred for the radical reforms of the Civilian Faction and supported the conservative and stable Elder Faction.
Pompey, who had wiped out the Civilian Faction’s rebel army in Spain, appeared to him as a second Sula. Cicero believed that this brilliant Roman hero was destined to become a cornerstone of the Elder Faction.
This was also a source of personal motivation for him. Although he had begun making appearances in court seven or eight years ago and had gained a modest reputation within Rome’s legal circles, he felt this was far from enough. To enter the upper echelons of the Roman political arena and work alongside such luminaries, he knew he had to quickly claim the crown of the plaintiff, the pinnacle of legal achievement, to garner widespread admiration. This would become his next goal to strive toward.
..........................................
Mid-July, Snowdonia’s main residence. The tribal assembly, originally set for the end of the month, was convened early today. Representatives of various departments and their subordinates filled the hall.
"Everyone!" The tribal leader, Maximus, seated at the head, bore a grave expression and spoke in a low tone: "I have just received news. Our comrades who stayed in Italy... Spartacus and the troops he led have been completely defeated by the Romans..."
As Maximus had repeatedly emphasized before, everyone had reached a consensus that the main rebel army’s campaign in Italy would eventually fail. Otherwise, they would not have followed Maximus to this place. However, no one had expected the defeat to come so swiftly. That was an army exceeding 100,000 soldiers, led by the courageous and resourceful Spartacus!
"Leader, is this true?!" Acronis voiced the doubts lingering in most people’s hearts.
"It is indeed true..." Maximus said, his face shadowed with sorrow. "This news was just brought to me by Elder Karsipempas of the Alde tribe. I had entrusted him to keep us informed about what was happening in Italy.
He told me that two months ago, the main forces of Free Italy were defeated by the Roman Army led by Crassus. Spartacus, Hamilcar... Antonix, and other leaders fell one after another in battle. The warriors either perished on the battlefield or were crucified after being captured...