Decius didn’t hear from the villa for several days after that. On the eve of the fifth day, however, he caught wind of some gossip that chilled his blood. He crossed the half-mile to the villa without thinking about it and hammered his club-like fist on the wood of the door. After a second, a servant opened it, and Decius swept in with confidence borne of anger.

Valentinian! He knew the name of old.

Fidelis was eating at a long table, alone, when Decius found him.

“Ah, my boy. Do sit. Have a grape,” said the old man.

The Pit Dogs: Chapter One