That winter is not easy for Marcus. His leg aches from the overwork of the long journey, and Cottia is away all winter. There is still the issue of Marcus's future to be decided. He considers becoming a wealthy man's secretary again. Regardless, Esca pledges to remain with Marcus. Cottia finally returns, looking grown up and more beautiful than ever. Cottia begs Marcus to take her with him, whatever his future brings.
A horseman arrives with a message for Marcus, a papyrus roll. With amazement and delight Marcus learns that the Senate has made Esca a Roman citizen. Marcus has been retired from the Legion with a full pension. He is to be paid part in cash and part in land. The Senate will deed him a farm in Etruria or.....
