REPUBLIC

written by
Noah Toth
Address
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TITLE: Freedom was at stakefreedom, which whets the courage
of brave men-Titus Livius
EXT. CARTHAGE - DAY
A city of Carthage is under siege by the ROMAN ARMY. In the
streets, HASTATI can be seen battling with CARTHAGINIAN
INFANTRY. In a narrow alleyway, one unit of HASTATI is
pushing forward against a group of CARTHAGINIANS.
The two sides push at each other with remarkable strength
using their shields. A ROMAN OFFICER barks orders over the
great sound of battle. One HASTATI is seen impaling a
Carthaginian in the neck with his gladius. Blood pours all
over the mans face, he squints as blood continues to drench
from him.
The officer continues to bark orders and the Romans finally
break through the Carthaginian lines. The Carthaginians who
try to run are cut down by Romans. The Romans rush forward,
hooting and hollering.
FADE OUT
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
INT. ROOM - DAY
We see a BEDROOM. Within the bedroom is CORNELIUS SCIPIO
(18). His light brown hair drapes over his forehead slightly.
Cornelius is at his desk, scribbling on a scroll. He wears no
clothing but his clothes lay idly by on the back of his
chair. He quietly mutters to himself in Greek.
INT. HOUSE - DAY
We see AELIUS (late 30's), one of the many slaves belonging
to the Scipios in Rome. Aelius, with his dark olive skin,
meanders towards Cornelius's room.
INT. ROOM - DAY
AELIUS
Dominus, do you wish to eat or
bathe now?
Cornelius picks up his head from the scroll and looks at
Aelius.
2.
CORNELIUS
No, Aelius, all I require are some
fresh clothes. A plate of figs
should agree with my morning
stomach.
AELIUS
Aye, young master Scipio.
Aelius hobbles off out of the room to the kitchen.
CORNELIUS
(MUTTERING)
For a trueborn Corinthian, he seems
to forget his own accent.
Cornelius returns to his scroll, reading and revising it
carefully. Aelius comes with fresh clothes as requested.
Cornelius stands up and allows Aelius to put the clothes on
him. Once the clothes are fitted, Cornelius stands up
straighter, and puffs up his chest.
He lets go a heavy sigh and gestures Aelius to return to the
kitchens. There Cornelius stands, alone. He abandons the
scroll and walks out into the parlor of the house.
CUT TO:
EXT. CITY COURTYARD - DAY
The courtyard to Hannibals quarters in Carthage house only
two men. One is HANNIBAL BARCA (late 20s). He bears a
scruffy beard and content, blue eyes. He sits on a simple
stone bench in the courtyard, wearing his usual garb. The
other man is MERCENARY CAPTAIN who is intently conversing
with Hannibal, even though the Carthaginian is ignoring him
mostly.
UNKNOWN MAN (V.O.)
(WHISPERING HEAVILY)
Swear that you will always be an
enemy to Rome. Swear it on the
lives of your brothers, your
subjects, and your life. Swear this
oath to me, Hannibal.
Hannibal continues to look up at the sky; he closes his eyes
and mutters an inaudible response. The Mercenary Captain
looks around him and then up towards the sky, confused.
MERCENARY CAPTAIN
General? Sir, are you okay?
3.
Hannibals head and eyes shoot back downward calmly and he
looks at the Captain, somewhat confused himself.
HANNIBAL
Aye, go on. I was temporarily
transfixedon the skywhat were you
telling me about? Something about
the
(voice trails off)
MERCENARY CAPTAIN
the Iberian mercenaries and your
many vassals, general. I believe
you asked me here to question me on
their loyalty.
HANNIBAL
And, my Iberian friend? Where do my
mercenaries loyalties lay? To their
farmlands or to their employers?
The Captain smiles assuredly.
MERCENARY CAPTAIN
Farmland can be restored and
regained, the money you graciously
pay us cannot.
Hannibal nods understandingly and gestures the Captain away.
The Captain follows orders and leaves the courtyard. Hannibal
slowly turns his head about the courtyard, looking for
someone. He finds no one.
Hannibal stands and walks out of the courtyard into the
palace. He is greeted by his brother, MAGO BARCA (early 20s)
and his other brother, HASDRUBAL BARCA (early 20s).
MAGO
Ah, brother! Will you spend all day
outside in that infernal courtyard?
Hasdrubal nods intently and glares at Hannibal.
HASDRUBAL
For once, our foolish Mago is
correct brother. There is war to
waged, brother.
Hannibal picks his head up high and cocks his head slightly
at Hasdrubal.
HANNIBAL
Then there is no better time to
enjoy the courtyard, Hasdrubal.
(MORE)
4.
HANNIBAL (CONTD)
You are right; there is war to be
waged. Swords to be crossed, spears
to be lunged and arrows to fly.
Hence that is why I was discussing
matters of loyalty with our Iberian
delegate there. Tell me, brother,
what of Saguntums response?
HASDRUBAL
Nothing but dirty Iberian mockery!
The Roman whores slaughter our
brothers in the streets of that
wretched city and do not apologize
or yield!
MAGO
For once, our humorless brother is
right. All Saguntum can hope to be
is a whore of Rome. So, shall we
greet them in such a way? It is
time to say salve to our friends
in Iberia!
(He chuckles)
Hannibal looks out a nearby window and remains silent for
about a minute.
HANNIBAL
If we attack Saguntum, Rome will
demand my head.
HASDRUBAL
You know this, Hannibal. We have
been preparing, threatening for
months now. Its time to act! They
have made a bloody mockery of us,
brother.
Hannibal once again stares out the window. He stares out to
Carthage.
HANNIBAL
The men are ready, no?
HASDRUBAL
Aye, my brother. 30,000 men are
ready to plunge into Iberia.
Hannibal sighs greatly, Mago darts his head energetically
between Hasdrubal and Hannibal. Hannibal lifts his head high
once more.
5.
HANNIBAL
Brothers, gather your finest armor,
weapons, and goodbyes to loved
ones. I will uphold my vow, my duty
to Carthage. We march on Saguntum.
Hannibal stands there temporarily and then fast-walks back
through the courtyard.
MAGO
He even has me convinced this is
why we march on Saguntum. The
vengeance of lost and forgotten
comrades is quite a convenient
casus belli.
HASDRUBAL
If a fool like you will believe it,
no doubt the judges will too.
CUT TO:
INT. SHIP - DAY
A Roman transport ship cruises across the Mediterranean.
Below deck is a bed, on the foot of the bed is FABIUS MAXIMUS
(early 60s). He is leaning over, trying not to vomit. He
wears a common, slightly dirty set of clothing.
He continues desperately to keep his scruffy, unkempt white
beard from getting vomited in. The ship rocks back and forth
in a quick, violent episode. Fabius vomits in a bucket near
his feet.
He picks up his head and wipes whatever bile which was caught
in his facial hair. The ship is heard to be settling loudly.
From the entrance of Fabius quarters comes MARCUS CINNA (mid
20s), the personal bodyguard to Fabius.
He is a young soldier and wears the apparel of one. He wears
a freshly polished dagger on his waist. He has a clean-shaven
face and carries a content, confident look about him.
MARCUS
Envoy Maximus, are you ill, sir?
Tis ill luck to be plague-ridden at
sea.
Fabius looks up to Marcus, the vomit only leaving small
traces in his beard.
6.
FABIUS
No, Centurion Cinna, I am fine.
Thank you for your consideration.
Marcus nods confidently. Fabius returns his head downward
towards his bucket.
MARCUS
Great, sir, that is great. Since
you are feeling well, I interviewed
some of the sailors while you were
sleeping. As you requested, sir.
Fabius looks up once more, looking at Marcus goofy face.
FABIUS
And, Marcus?
MARCUS
As you predicted, sir. Most of them
are old thieves from Macedonia,
Athens, Carthage, or Massalia.
Thats why I put on my armor and
dagger sir, I dont trust any of
these pirates with a shipment of
salt, let alone a great envoy and
old consul of Rome. The great
Fabius Maximus!
Marcus smiles and all Fabius can do is scoff lightly and
smile as well. From behind, dark skinned SAILOR #1 (early
30s) rushes in. Marcus hears the footsteps and quickly turns
around, firmly grasping his dagger hilt.
The sailor stops instantly and becomes very timid.
Fabius looks at him closely, making eye contact. Marcus looks
back at Fabius, awaiting an order. Fabius holds his hand up
in a halt gesture. Marcus loosens his grasp and allows the
sailor to pass.
SAILOR #1
Legati, we are only an hour or two
away from the Port of Carthage now.
The captain suggests you re-pack
all your valuables and prepare to
dock.
The sailor begins to leave but before completely exiting, he
performs an awkward and choppy bow towards Fabius. Marcus
turns back to Fabius and stares at him with an apathetic
face, awaiting another order.
7.
MARCUS
I am sorry sir, I shall see the
captain flayed for not telling us
sooner.
Fabius dismisses the foolish suggestion with another weak
hand gesture. He rests his chin on his palm and thinks
deeply, Marcus, out of impatience, interrupts the silence.
MARCUS (CONTD)
Legati, sir, what shall we do? We
were not expected in Carthage for a
few days from now.
Fabius looks up at Marcus, his chin abandoning his hand.
FABIUS
Stay close to me, Marcus. Soon,
Greek thieves will not be our only
problem. I shall do what the Senate
demanded. There, in front of the
judges, I shall stand.
Fabius stands up quickly, finding new energy. He takes two
fistfuls of his clothes, one fistful on each hand.
FABIUS (CONTD)
There I shall stand, Marcus. In the
folds of my toga, two options are
held for Carthage. In one fold is
war
(LIFTS UP RIGHT FISTFUL OF
CLOTHES).
The other is peace
(LIFTS UP LEFT FISTFUL OF
CLOTHES).
Fabius lets both handfuls of toga drop. Marcus nods
understandingly and leaves Fabius quarters.
EXT. SHIP - DAY
The deck of the ship is decorated with Greek, Macedonian,
African and Italian sailors. Marcus makes his way to the bow
of the ship, stepping over the occasional sailor and puddle
of vomit. When he is only a few feet away from the very front
of the ship, he sees AESOP (early 40s), the ships captain.
The captain has a proud beard which springs forth from his
tan face. Aesop hears Marcus footsteps and turns to meet
him.
8.
AESOP
Ah, my good friend, Marcus! Haha,
how are you? Get into any more
fights with my boys? Haha, more
importantly though, how is our
illustrious guest, Fabius?
An evil chuckle escapes Aesop. Marcus usually goofy face
turns from its previously apathetic one to an expression of
rage. Marcus clenches his fist and delivers a punch to
Aesops face. Aesops head whips backward and as it comes
back, Marcus delivers another blow.
Aesops knees buckle. Before he catches himself on the
ground, Marcus maneuvers behind him, catches him, and puts
Aesop in a headlock. Marcus pulls out his pugio and presses
the tip against Aesops backside.
Blood runs profusely from Aesops nose and the skin has torn
on his right cheek. He struggles vigorously and attempts to
grab Marcus and his pugio in vain.
AESOP (CONTD)
What are you doing, you Roman cunt?
Let me go or my boys will skewer
you with a trident and leave your
worthless corpse in the Port of
Carthage!
Marcus tightens the headlock, preventing words from escaping
Aesops lips.
MARCUS
Listen you Greek, boy fucking piece
of shit. If you give us the wrong
information again or send anyone
but yourself to collect us once
we've docked, I will personally see
your crew of hairless babes
impaled, castrated, and limbless!
Get us to Carthage without an
incident or more lies and you will
keep your worthless, poisoned
tongue!
Marcus releases Aesop. The Greek struggles for breath and
gasps wildly. Marcus stands upright and turns his head, the
entire crew was watching the episode. Marcus points his
dagger at the crowd and they leave quickly.
Marcus turns back to the struggling Aesop and kicks him in
the ribs, taking more breath from him.
He then quickly sheaths his pugio and offers Aesop a hand.
9.
Aesop swats it away. Marcus stands up, shrugs his shoulders
goofily, and walks off. Aesop waits to get up after Marcus
has completely departed and is below deck.
CUT TO:
INT. HOUSE - DAY
TITLE: A FEW WEEKS LATER
Cornelius is sitting in a chair, eating a fig across from his
father, PUBLIUS CORNELIUS SCIPIO (late 40s). Publius is
savoring a cup of wine through his apathetic face.
PUBLIUS
Aelius prepared these figs well, I
suppose. I sometimes wonder how you
could ever understand that thickly
accented man.
Cornelius looks up from his fig with a look of well-contained
joy.
CORNELIUS
Well father, sometimes its all
Greek to me.
(SMILES)
PUBLIUS
(SCOFFS LIGHTLY)
Aye.
CORNELIUS
Tell me father, how is dear uncle
Calvus?
PUBLIUS
He is.
Cornelius cocks his head slightly.
CORNELIUS
As it seems pleasantries are lost
on you let us skip them, shall we,
father? The mighty Publius
Cornelius Scipio barely leaves the
forum nowadays. Why does he bless
us with his glorious presence?
(LIGHTLY CHUCKLES)
Cornelius stands from his seat, bows sarcastically at his
father, and returns to his seat.
10.
PUBLIUS
(LEANS BACK)
Jokes will not get you far with the
Senate, Cornelius.
CORNELIUS
Ha and why would I want to go far
with the Senate, father?
Publius scoffs heavily and shakes his head in disappointment.
PUBLIUS
As long as you are a Scipio, you
will do what I say. I say you will
be beloved by the Senate.
CORNELIUS
I could please the Senate, if war
were loose upon Italy, Spain, or
Africa. To breathe that last
breath, to kiss that last kiss, to
intake that last heavenly ambrosia,
to swallow that last drop of wine
which wears the guise of honey. To
die, tis our final and greatest
gift to the Republic.
PUBLIUS
Poetic. I've heard it a phase in
all boys. And you are right,
Cornelius. War does not bless us
with its presence as of now but
soon it shall. As for the Senate,
blood appeals to those rambling old
fools more than rhetoric.
CORNELIUS
(LEANS IN)War is to occur
soon? With who? So many
nowadays I assume.
Illyrian sheepherders,
Macedonian boy-lovers,
Iberian savages, or maybe
some Gallic ghouls?
(SMILES)
Publius stands up, pushes in his seat, and wipes his mouth
with a napkin. He puts his arms behind his back and walks
behind Cornelius, pacing behind him.
Cornelius does not turn his head towards him.
11.
PUBLIUS
Enough of the damn jokes and
poetry, boy. Hannibal Barca, son of
that Iberian-fucking Hamilcar, is
marching to Saguntum and means to
besiege it. In a few days, him and
his horde will be at the walls and
in a few months, Saguntum will fall
to Carthaginian monsters.
CORNELIUS
Help will not come to our Saguntine
allies?
PUBLIUS
No, we will be too busy preparing
armies of our own. War is coming.
Not only that, so is my consulship.
With my promotion will come your
own. Father and son, killing
Carthaginians together.
Publius laughs almost maniacally and walks over to his side
of the table. When there, he reaches for his cup of wine and
finishes it in one mighty gulp. He mimics Corneliuss
sarcastic bow and walks out of the house, forgetting to wipe
his wine stained lips.
CUT TO:
EXT. CAMP - NIGHT
TITLE: Northern Italy, near the Arno River
In Northern Italy, a Roman camp sits on a quiet field.
In this camp is a maniple of Roman hastati, around 120 men
are spread out among this large camp. In front of his tent
sits ATILIUS AURELIANUS (19-20).
In front of his tent is a wooden stump, he is sitting on it,
sharpening his gladius with a stone. The sound of the sword
being sharpened is barely heard over the great, lively sound
of the camp.
A centurion, LUCIUS POMPONIUS (mid 30s), meanders up to
Atilius with his wineskin and takes a seat on the ground next
to him.
LUCIUS
Hey there, boy killer! How is our
fine Atilius this evening?
(MORE)
12.
LUCIUS (CONTD)
Man enough to finally drink from
the maniple wineskin? Ha!
Atilius looks up from the sword and then glares at the
wineskin. His face finally lands upon Luciuss eyes.
ATILIUS
Junior Centurion Pomponius, sir, I
have told you I do not care for
drink.
LUCIUS
(SCOFFS)
Everyone cares for drink
eventually, boy.
Lucius takes a large swig from the wineskin. His eyes are all
over the place, looking every direction possible. His lips
are stained with wine.
LUCIUS (CONTD)
Thats right; youve never killed a
man. After that, youll see the
appeal of drink. My first was a
wily Gaul. Came out of the wood
with ten o his buddies.
Atilius rolls his eyes but continues to sharpen his sword.
ATILIUS
Aye, sir. Youve told the whole
maniple maybe fifty times over. Ten
Gauls came at your three,half-
drunken comrades when scouting.
Thirteen men entered the melee, two
left.
Lucius swings his arms wildly.
LUCIUS
Damn right, Atilius! Remember, boy,
you are bereft of ever attending a
battle! Trust me when I say that
without the courage to drink, you
wont have the courage to kill.
Lucius clumsily tries to hand Atilius the wineskin, Atilius
denies it as politely as he can. Lucius simply shrugs and
goes back to drinking. From the same direction Lucius came,
CAIUS LUCANUS (early 20s), is seen soberly lumbering towards
the two men.
13.
He looks at Lucius until the two make eye contact. When their
eyes meet, a great laugh is exchanged between the two men
with no context. Caius takes a seat next Lucius on the grass.
Lucius offers him the wineskin with a drunken grunt, Caius
denies it.
LUCIUS (CONTD)
Has eunuch Atilius here converted
you, Caius? Ha! Ive never known
you to turn away good wine.
CAIUS
That is not good wine, Lucius.
(CHUCKLES LIGHTLY)
Caius allows a large smile to escape him. He then turns his
head to Atilius, who's still invested in his sword
sharpening.
CAIUS (CONTD)
You are not wrong though, Lucius,
this boy does seem awfully familiar
to a man without his manhood.
Atilius stops his mundane activity and finally engages with
the two men. His face is one of anger and annoyance.
ATILIUS
Why, sir, I do not see there being
a problem sharpening my sword. We
are an army, no?
CAIUS
Lucius, this boy was born without
balls or a sense of humor. Look at
the fresh meat, defending itself.
(LAUGHS LOUDLY)
Lucius follows in laughter and tries to take a swig from his
wineskin but it is empty. He is drunkenly shocked by this
discovery and lobs his wineskin far across the camp in a
fury.
LUCIUS
Never enough wine
Caius chuckles at the drunken exploit and all Atilius does is
return to his sword and stone again. Caius bumps the shoulder
of Lucius and begins to smile at Atilius.
CAIUS
Hey boy.
Atilius ignores Caius. Caius becomes more forceful.
14.
CAIUS (CONTD)
Hey boy.
Atilius ignores him again, Caius becomes enraged.
CAIUS
CAIUS (CONTD)
Hey boy, fucking listen when an
officer speaks to you!
Atilius remembers his duty and sets his sword in front of him
and the stone he lightly tosses behind his left shoulder. He
feigns a calm and relaxed face.
ATILIUS
Yes Senior Centurion Lucanus, may I
assist you?
Caius chuckles as though he is drunk.
CAIUS
Aye you can, you little cunt. Tell
me, boy, ever kill a man?
ATILIUS
No, sir.
Caius smiles insidiously.
CAIUS
Well, boy, theres no time like the
present.
Caius leaps from his spot on the grass, his sober feet
quicker than Atilius lack of experience. Caius tackles
Atilius, knocking him from the tree stump. Atilius is now
pinned down as Caius punches him repeatedly in the face.
Caius releases a horrible war cry, letting loose one more
punch on Atilius right cheek. Weak and taken by surprise,
Atilius puts up no resistance as Caius begins to choke him.
Raw skin is seen on Atilius cheeks and blood is spewing from
his mouth. He is only a few seconds away from death. Caius
face is enraged throughout.
CAIUS (CONTD)
Kill me, boy! Kill me!
(LAUGHS MANIACALLY)
Atilius turns his head to his right side, barely moving his
arms and waiting to die. When he lays his right cheek against
the grass, he sees his sharpening stone.
15.
Weakly, he grabs it and strongly slams it against Caius left
temple. Caius, disoriented, falls on his side. Atilius
lingers onto his knees, vomiting blood and gasping for
breath. He picks his head up and sees the sword he sharpened.
He limps towards it. Caius is still on the ground, attempting
to regain his senses.
By the time he has managed to get on his feet, Atilius comes
up from behind and slashes his hamstring muscles on his right
leg. Caius screams out in horrible pain.
As Caius struggles on the grass, attempting to stop the
bleeding, Atilius grabs him by the right shoulder, and turns
him over. There Atilius stands, over Caius, ready to impale
his sword into his neck.
Caius quiets his shrieks to soft moans, he is waiting for
death. Atilius pulls back his sword arm but before it drops,
he is grabbed on his left shoulder and turned around by
Lucius. Lucius punches him in the gut.
As Atilius whips his head downward in pain, Lucius knees him
in the nose. Atilius then jolts up in pain but is stopped
from falling when Lucius catches him by both shoulders and
brings his mouth to Atilius ear.
LUCIUS
(WHISPERS)
Yield you stupid boy
Lucius lets go of Atilius and lets him fall on the grass. A
loud THUMP is heard as his head makes contact with the solid
ground. Atilius eyes begin to close as blood from his nose,
raw cheeks, and mouth pour onto the green grass.
END ACT ONE
CUT TO:
ACT TWO
EXT. CAMP - DAY
TITLE: SAGUNTUM
We see Hannibals camp outside of Saguntum. Hannibals army
stands outside the camps entrance, waiting for their
commander as Hannibals siege artillery shoot pots of fire
into Saguntum.
16.
An artillery piece is seen loading its payload and launching
the delivery to the city walls. The pot of fire is seen
crashing against Saguntums mighty, stone wall. Fire shoots
in every direction.
Behind the mass of men at the camp entrance is Hannibal with
his brother Mago and Hasdrubal. Mago is smiling energetically
within his full leather armor, preparing to unsheathe his
falcata.
Hasdrubal stands there in his leather armor, like Mago,
except he wears a helmet for extra protection. His eyes dart
up and down the line, making sure no man is retreating.
Hannibal stands in between the two, standing confidently and
calmly in his bronze breastplate. He, like Mago, is without a
helmet. His hands are on his waist as he stares at the city,
observing the artillery releasing its hellish delivery.
HANNIBAL
(WHISPERS)
Here we are, father.
Mago glares at Hannibal, thinking he heard Hannibal say
something.
MAGO
Do you need something, brother?
Hannibal looks to Mago, maintaining the face of confidence.
HANNIBAL
Only Saguntine blood, little
brother.
(LIGHTLY LAUGHS)
Mago responds with his heavenly chuckle. He raises his arms,
cheering wildly. Dozens of men within Magos vicinity follow
his example. Hannibal nods at Mago and then Hasdrubal. They
look forward together and push their way through the crowd of
men.
As Hannibal passes, soldiers can be heard cheering, hooting,
slamming their swords against their shields. Hannibal and his
brothers make their way to the front of the horde. On each
side of the three brothers are five ladders held up by
numerous, nameless soldiers.
Hannibal walks a few yards ahead of his army, leaving his
brothers behind. The artillery continues to bombard as he
does so. When a few yards away, he turns his head towards his
army.
17.
HANNIBAL (CONTD)
(YELLING)
Men of Carthage!
He is answered by the battle cry of thousands of men ready to
fight.
HANNIBAL (CONTD)
(LAUGHS LOUDLY)
Men of Carthage! Men willing to
die! Men willing to glorify
themselves! Men willing to follow!
Men willing to meet Baal Hammon!
He is greeted by more battle cries and bloodthirsty hollers
over the artillery bombardment.
HANNIBAL (CONTD)
Today, many will die! Not you
though, brave men of Carthage! I
only plan to have Saguntine dogs do
the dying!
A bellow escapes the crowd of eager soldiers as well as the
slamming of swords against shields.
HANNIBAL (CONTD)
Today, we have many a man with us
on this glorious path. Iberians,
Africans, and Balearic Islanders!
Some of you are here for money,
some of you are here for a cause,
some of you are here for the joy of
killing. Whatever your purpose, you
shall have it! By the morrow, this
city shall be nothing put a burnt
corpse upon the Iberian soil!
Now the men are beyond riled up. They are jumping wildly and
smashing their shields uncontrollably.
HANNIBAL'S ARMY
(Shouting) Hannibal!
Hannibal! Hannibal!
Hannibal turns to the city.
HANNIBAL
(Yelling) Charge and see the blood
of cunts spilled!
His men listen to the order eagerly. Hannibal unsheathes his
falcata, releasing his battle cry while doing so. Hasdrubal
and Mago follow in his influence.
18.
The ladder men charge in the front, following Hannibal.
Hannibal begins his charge to the wall slowly, letting the
ladders pass him and allowing Mago and Hasdrubal to flank
him. When they do, they continue their charge together,
thousands of men behind them hooting and hollering.
Saguntine archers can be seen drawing their bows at the
ladder men. They fire their volley, two ladders with all
their men fall. The other three ladders make it to the wall
and slam them against the stone walls of Saguntum.
The Saguntines on the walls attempt to push them off but the
Carthaginians below keep the balance by pushing harder.
Hannibal and his brothers allow a dozen men to go onto each
of the ladders and up the walls.
The brothers follow up the center ladder eagerly. A Saguntine
soldier takes his position on the wall, his bow draw. He
fires his arrow at Hannibals ladder, it kills the man right
in front of Hannibal, sending him flying off the ladder and
tumbling off Hannibals backside.
Hannibal manages to hold on though. The few men in front of
Hannibal it over the wall and swords can be heard colliding.
Finally, Hannibal makes it over the wall to see that the men
have carved out a small open space, littered with five dead
men, on the wall. Around him, more men are coming over the
wall and rushing towards the battle occurring on both sides
of Hannibal on the wall.
On both sides on Hannibal, his men are pushing the Saguntines
back off the wall. Through the Carthaginians, a Saguntine
charges at Hannibal, wildly swinging his sword.
The Saguntine swings his sword at Hannibals head; Hannibal
blocks his strike and slashes at the Saguntines neck,
sending him to the floor.
Blood pours from the Saguntines jugular. Hannibals face now
has blood darting across it. Mago comes up from behind
Hannibal.
MAGO
(SHOUTING)
First of many, eh brother?
Hasdrubal then comes up behind Mago, his helmet is gone and
blood is on his breastplate.
HASDRUBAL
(SHOUTING)
What now, brother?
19.
Hannibal turns his head to both of them. He darts his head to
the left and then to the right.
HANNIBAL
(SHOUTING)
Mago, take the left and push into
the courtyard! Hasdrubal, take the
right and seize the battlements! I
would see this wall and its
occupiers sent to the afterlife!
They both nod their heads and go to their assigned position.
We now see Hannibal standing on the wall, breathing heavily,
watching the fight.
After standing like this for about a minute, he sprints to
the left side of the wall to help Mago. He pushes his way
through the men until he reaches the front of the melee.
One Saguntine attempts to plunge a spear into Hannibals
chest, Hannibal parries the attack and impales the Saguntine
through the chest.
HANNIBAL (CONTD)
(SHOUTING)
Come on, men! Finish them off!
CUT TO:
EXT. SAGUNTUM COURTYARD - SAME DAY
Hannibal is sitting on a bench in the Saguntine courtyard. He
is staring at his feet, twirling his sword in the dirt. He is
surrounded by dead Saguntines.
One dead man is in front of Hannibal, he picks up his head to
look at it. His face remains emotionless. He then notices
Mago lumbering towards him.
MAGO
Great glory is in this courtyard.
Hannibal scoffs.
HANNIBAL
So this is glory, little brother?
Mago looks away from Hannibal, observing the slaughter.
MAGO
Hasdrubal is just a little north of
us.
(MORE)
20.
MAGO (CONTD)
He sent me to tell you that hes
rooted out what resistance is left.
He asks for your orders on what to
do with Saguntum.
Hannibal stands up from the bench. There is a well behind
Mago. He walks over to it. In the well there is a bucket of
water.
He takes some in his hand and begins to splash it on his
breastplate. He washes off the blood. He then begins to
speak, without looking at Mago.
HANNIBAL
MAGO (CONTD)
(QUIETLY)
Burn it, little brother. Burn it.
See if the gods shall weep and seek
the inferno that awaits all who
would deny the will of Carthage.
FADE OUT
FADE IN
INT. CARTHAGINIAN SENATE - NIGHT
There is shouting everywhere, being thrown from every
direction in the Carthaginian senate house. Fabius stands
there, shouting back at the volley of Carthaginian voices. In
the back of the house is Marcus. He is chatting with AKBAR
(30), a guard with long black hair and full, green eyes.
AKBAR
These old fools will never stop
arguing will they?
Marcus chuckles lightly and looks back to Fabius quickly.
MARCUS
Im afraid not, boy. Only two
things will walk out of this
structure. Hannibals demise or
war.
Akbar hangs his head low and then looks into the verbal
melee.
AKBAR
They wont give up Hannibal. Except
for that Hanno cunt, they all love
him for what he did to Saguntum.
(MORE)
21.
AKBAR (CONTD)
In all honestly, Roman, I love him
for what he did.
Marcuss face saddens.
MARCUS
Then, Akbar, my newest friend.
Heres to war.
(He puts his hand out)
Akbar shakes Marcuss hand.
MARCUS (CONTD)
The old will bicker over
sovereignty while the young will
die over it, eh?
We focus on Fabius, who has survived the verbal bombardment.
He takes two handfuls of his toga, one on each side.
FABIUS
(SHOUTING)
Judges, in the folds of my toga are
this meetings adjournment! On the
left, there is peace. On the right,
there is war. Which will you have?
CARTHAGINIAN JUDGE #1 (mid 70s) stands from his seat
violently.
CARTHAGINIAN JUDGE #1
(SHOUTING)
What will you have, Fabius? Let us
have the mighty Rome decide
Carthages fate!
Fabius looks intently around the room, seeing if anyone
objects to this. They do not, he finds assorted judges
nodding in agreement. Fabius sighs heavily and releases the
right handful of his toga.
Some judges jeer Fabius while others begin to cheer in
excitement. Fabius then trudges over to Marcus. We close in
on Akbar and Marcuss faces. Marcus turns to Akbar.
MARCUS
Well, you were right. Good luck to
ye.
Marcus hands Akbar a silver coin.
22.
MARCUS (CONTD)
For any drink you might need. I
have a feeling well both be
needing it.
Akbar nods thankfully. Fabius finally reaches Marcus.
FABIUS
Let us be off, centurion. Carthage
has no more need of us, Rome calls
us back to her bloody embrace.
MARCUS
Aye, sir. We shall be off to the
docks then.
The two leave the senate and we close in on a bird eye view
of the Carthaginian senate. The shouting can be heard
quietly, echoing throughout the sky.
FADE OUT
END ACT ONE
ACT TWO
CUT TO:
EXT. FIELD DAY
The sun is shining over the field, emitting a bright, white
light. We see the field and its majestic beauty, its grass
swaying back and forth calmly. All is peaceful and tranquil.
From a bird eyes view, we see three figures running through
the field.
Down on the grasss level now, we see that the three figures
are Hannibal, Hasdrubal and Mago. We follow their backsides
as they run. They are all wearing full armor and carry one
sword each. We now see them from the front as they run and
close in on Hannibals face.
HANNIBAL (V.O.)
It never endsthe field never
surrenders.
Hannibal slows down and eventually stops, his brothers follow
in his example. Mago and Hasdrubal are panting heavily.
MAGO
We must keep running brother, it
will catch us!
23.
HASDRUBAL
He is right, we must keep running
if we are to survive.
Hannibal looks down and sighs.
HANNIBAL
(QUEITLY)
Who says we are to survive?
Hannibal picks up his head and holds up his sword in defense.
Hasdrubal and Mago look at each other and eventually hold up
their swords in defense. There they stand, defiantly ready to
meet their opponent. Hannibal lets loose a warrior cry.
We see the three of them from the front, Hannibal ahead of
the group. A javelin comes in and impales Hasdrubals
stomach. He only lets out a small grunt as he falls to the
ground.
Mago looks to Hasdrubal out of concern and we see an arrow
fly into his neck. Mago drops his sword and grabs at his neck
and blood is seen flowing out. Hannibal looks back to where
Mago used to be and then looks back and then up.
An eagle is seen swooping down; screeching as it lands on
Hannibals face and begins to claw his eye out. We zoom out
to where we can barely see Hannibal and only hear him scream
out of pain.
CUT TO:
EXT. RIVER BANK DAY
TITLE: Ebro River, Late Spring, 218 BC
Hannibal is squatting on the river bank, staring at the
water. He does not wear his military garb. From behind, we
see Hasdrubal approach in his military gear.
Hasdrubal stands behind Hannibal, waiting for him to take
notice.
HANNIBAL
What is it, Hasdrubal?
HASDRUBAL
The last of the men arrived. We are
at full strength.
HANNIBAL
What is full strength?
24.
HASDRUBAL
HANNIBAL (CONTD)
Ninety thousand infantry, twelve
thousand cavalry, and 37 elephants.
Hannibal does not respond and the trumpet of an elephant can
be heard in the distance, back at the camp. Hannibal stands
up and turns to the camp. Hasdrubal does not.
HASDRUBAL
This should be enough to destroy
the Romans. Especially in Spain or
Africa. Fighting in these vigilant
hills or blinding deserts will
serve us well.
HANNIBAL
Is everyone assembled at the tent?
HASDRUBAL
Aye, brother.
HANNIBAL
You know, faithful brother, I had a
dream last night.
HASDRUBAL
And, brother? What does Ba'al tell
you?
HANNIBAL
That we are doomed. (CHUCKLES)
Hannibal begins to fast walk back to the camp and pats
Hasdrubal on the shoulder as he walks back. Hasdrubal seems
confused and lingers behind Hannibal back to the camp.
Hannibal enters the camp with no resistance from the guards
as Hasdrubal lags behind.
He then begins to walk to the tent but as he is within a few
yards of it, he is shocked by an elephant with rudely steps
in front of him unexpectedly. He stops to let the beast and
its owner pass and this allows Hasdrubal to catch up with
him. Hannibal then enters the tent.
INT. TENT DAY
Hannibal is greeted by Mago with a smile. Hasdrubal walks to
his assigned position next to Mago. As he walks to his
position, we are made aware of GISGO (late 20s). He wears a
serious face like Hasdrubal but unlike Hasdrubal, he is
dirty.
25.
Next to Gisgo, we see MAHARBAL (mid 30s). He wears the
attire of a cavalry officer. Hannibal takes note of Gisgo and
Maharbal and nods respectively.
In the center of the tent there is a map of the western
Mediterranean.
HANNIBAL
I am glad you could all be here,
gentlemen. Hasdrubal, my brother
and commander of the Iberian
provinces (nods to him). Mago, my
youngest brother and proud
commander of our fine infantry
(nods to him). Gisgo, chief scout
(holds out his hand and allows
Gisgo to shake it, Gisgo does). And
finally, Maharbal, our fine and
promising cavalry commander. How
has the road treated you, good
friends?
GISGO
Well, sir, all roads lead to Rome
so it was hard not to fall into
enemy hands. (CHUCKLES)
MAHARBAL
I am very well sir. Many judges
revel in the victory over the
Saguntines and eagerly await your
thrashing of Roman cunts.
(bows respectively)
Hannibal returns Gisgo and Maharbals remarks with a smile.
Hasdrubal interrupts the pleasantries with a grunt.
HASDRUBAL
With all due respect--
HANNIBAL
I find it when someone says with
all due respect they are about to
say something rather disrespectful,
brother.
Hasdrubal stops his thought.
HANNIBAL (CONTD)
Now, dear Gisgo, what of Massalia?
How heavily defended is it?
26.
GISGO
Sir, Consul Publius Cornelius
Scipio has camped his army at
Massalia and is heavily defending
the Rhone. It would be an ill
challenge for us to give him
battle.
HASDRUBAL
Give him battle? Massalia is in
Gaul and here we are, on the
frontier of our own territories.
Are we to now take Northern Iberia
and Southern Gaul?
(SCOFFS)
Hannibal looks to Hasdrubal and ignores the remark.
HANNIBAL
Which Publius Cornelius Scipio is
it? I have heard there are two
Romans with the same name.
GISGO
Aye, that is true, sir. The consul
is the older one, the other one is
his son.
HANNIBAL
(LAUGHS)
These Romans and their pissing
names! Two Scipios, father and son,
with the same name! Where is the
creativity? The names dont have
the originality that ours carry.
Maharbal
(points to him)
, Mago
(points to him)
, Gisgo
(points to him)
; Hasdrubal
(points to him)
Hannibal
(points to himself and
chuckles)
.
Hannibals staff responds with a chuckle.
HANNIBAL (CONTD)
Well, gentlemen, it is as I
expected.
(MORE)
27.
HANNIBAL (CONTD)
The Romans have camped themselves
along the Rhone and that makes
passage into Italy impossible or
just very bloody.
HASDRUBAL
Speak sense, brother! Passage into
Italy?
Hannibal looks at Hasdrubal with an annoyed look.
HANNIBAL
If we are to invade Rome, I fear we
will need to pass through Italy.
(SMIRKS)
HASDRUBAL
Invade?
(He leans in and begins to
breathe heavily)
Would you have Iberia burn?
Carthage?
A hatred can be seen in Hannibals eyes. He releases a
massive sigh and slowly points to the tent entrance.
HANNIBAL
(CALMLY)
You forget yourself, brother. It is
I who brings the inferno, not our
enemies. Leave this tent now,
brother. You love Iberia so much?
Good, I need someone to defend it.
Perhaps thatd be you. May these
vigilant hills serve you well.
Hasdrubal looks about the men in the tent, desperately
searching for an ally. No one looks at him and await his
departure. Hasdrubal grunts angrily and begins to leave the
tent.
HASDRUBAL
(WHISPERED LOUDLY)
Piss and blood!
Hannibal looks over his shoulder as Hasdrubal exits, assuring
he is well outside the tent. Hannibal turns his head back to
the group.
MAHARBAL
His anger, confusion, whatever
emotion your brother is failing to
convey is not without merit, sir.
(MORE)
28.
MAHARBAL (CONTD)
An offensive war against Rome
would be costly and not to our
advantage I fear.
HANNIBAL
Our fathers have fought the
defensive war. Now it is time for
our generation's offensive. Romes
senate and aristocracy are
perfectly fine waging war when
blood is shed in Sicily, Iberia or
Africa, far away from themselves.
Bring the war to Italy. Burn their
farms, kill their neighbors and we
shall see a quicker and grander
yield than we hoped.
The men within the room grow very still and then slowly look
to one another, as if communicating without words.
MAGO
Brother, I would follow you to any
front or battle. I would gladly
jump in front of a Roman gladius if
need be. I would eagerly receive a
Roman javelin upon my breast. Yet
do not take this blind devotion for
foolery though. Even if we
destroyed Scipio at Massalia and
crossed the Rhone, our forces would
be at less than half strength. That
is not a force we can hope to
dominant the heart of Rome with.
Hannibal smiles and walks behind Mago, putting his hand on
his shoulder.
HANNIBAL
Thats why, dear brother, we shall
not cross the Rhone. We are going
over the Alps.
CUT TO:
INT. TENT DAY
In this tent, Atilius lays on the floor. His face has caked,
dried blood splattered across it and he is in a deep sleep.
We see him twitch slightly and eventually, he shoots upward,
now fully awake.
29.
He darts his head about and goes to touch his face. He
touches his face and when it pulls it off, we see remnants of
the caked blood on his hand. He looks at his hand, puzzled.
Then he eventually stands up and grunts in pain.
Atilius slowly paces around the tent, looking for something.
He goes by his blankets and notices something under them.
He squats down and we see it is the hilt of his gladius. He
pulls the sword out from under the blankets and stands up. We
see dried, somewhat faded blood on the right side of the
blade.
Atilius sighs and tosses the sword onto the blankets. He then
looks to the tent entrance and walks out of the tent.
EXT. CAMP DAY
There is a great hustle and energy about the camp, soldiers
are seen marching around in full armor and in the distance,
laughing can be heard.
Atilius looks around, wondering what is going on. SOLDIER #1
comes marching up from Atilius left side with the rest of
his unit, chuckling as he comes up and pats Atilius on the
shoulder.
SOLDIER #1
Aha, theres our killer!
Atilius looks at him, puzzled. But before he can reply, the
soldier marches on with the rest of his unit.
Atilius then moves down the aisle of the camp, looking around
for a familiar face. As he begins to reach the end of a tent,
Lucius pops out from around the corner of the same tent and
forces Atilius aside behind the tent.
LUCIUS
You have no fucking idea what
you've done do you, boy?
Atilius, now puzzled, looks around before speaking.
ATILIUS
What do you mean, sir?
LUCIUS
Cut the sir bullshit, boy. Caius
is not dead so your problems are
far from solved.
30.
Atilius looks around the corner of the tent. When he finds
nothing, he turns back to Lucius.
ATILIUS
There wouldnt have been a problem
Centurion Pomponius if that maniac
had not tried and killed me!
LUCIUS
Please, you dumb cunt boy, I insist
you skip the pleasantries and call
me something that dont involve my
rank.
ATILIUS
Why such familiarity, Lucius?
LUCIUS
Well I figure its the least I can
do considering youre going to kill
Caius for me.
From the rear of his belt, Lucius pulls out a small dagger.
Atilius steps back, shaking his head slowly in disapproval.
ATILIUS
Whywhy would you have me do that?
I thought Caius was your friendthe
Gauls you killed together
LUCIUS
Bugger the Gauls! He mightve been
my friend but it dont make him
exempt from being a fucking cunt.
What he did was inexcusable and if
the prefect was to find out what
happened under my watchwed both
be flogged until we couldn't tell a
cunt from a bull's asshole
(Hands Atilius the dagger,
Atilius weakly takes it)
. One good plunge in the neck and
hell be dead. Do it at night when
the prefect is done making his
rounds, Ill cover for you til
then, alright? Keep hidden, hes
been asking questions yaknow.
Lucius is about to walk out into the aisle but Atilius grabs
his shoulder.
ATILIUS
Lucius, why all the commotion?
31.
Lucius laughs loudly out of satisfaction.
LUCIUS
Thats right, you were asleep. That
barbarian Hannibal sacked Saguntum.
Were at war, brother! Some Scipio
cunt is coming to join us and then
were off to Iberia, boy!
(Looks around and
chuckles)
I bet you could use a drink now,
huh?
Lucius peaks his head around the tent corner and then
casually walks out into the aisle. Atilius looks at the
dagger in his palm. His knees buckle and he firmly grips the
dagger in his hand. He begins to look to the sky.
ATILIUS
Oh Mars, what have I done to offend
you?
CUT TO:
INT. ROMAN SENATE DAY
Cornelius sits within the empty Roman senate, simply staring
at the space around him. Outside in the forum, shopkeepers
can be heard peddling their goods but it is not loud enough
to cover the echo of the entering men.
Their footsteps make quite an entrance as they enter the
senate house. Cornelius turns his head to the two figures and
we see that it is Fabius Maximus and GAIUS TERRENTIUS VARRO
(mid 20s).
Varro has a cocky look about him and a freshly shaved face.
Cornelius smiles at both of them and stands up and walks down
to the senate floor to greet them.
CORNELIUS
(LIGHTLY LAUGHS)
Aha, my dear Varro and Fabius.
(Looks at both of them and
then directly at Varro)
Tell me Varro, how does Praetor
suit you?
VARRO
Well enough
(smiles)
.
32.
CORNELIUS
(Looks at Fabius)
And Fabius, how did your trip to
Carthage go?
FABIUS
(GRUNTS)
We all know how it went, Cornelius.
I would think your fathers absence
at Massalia would prove the point.
CORNELIUS
Was my father gone? I had barely
noticed
FABIUS
Dont be cruel, Cornelius. I
thought you would be excited for
war of all people. A chance for
glory surely.
(CHUCKLES)
Varro here can barely contain
himself!
Varro nods his head in agreement while laughing.
VARRO
Aye, I cant wait to have my chance
in this war. I have big things in
my future!
Cornelius squints slightly.
CORNELIUS
Im sure you do, dear Varro. Youre
to be a true Horatius.
Cornelius begins to walk to the senate entrance but is
stopped by Fabius hand.
FABIUS
When do you plan to leave for
Massalia, Cornelius? Your uncle and
father are already there, awaiting
your arrival for their Iberian
expedition. It would sit ill with
the people and your future if you
were not to join them in a timely
fashion.
Cornelius forcefully shakes off Fabius hand, his face
becomes grim.
33.
CORNELIUS
I leave tomorrow with my slave
Aelius and a few maniples of men
Im supposed to meet near the Arno.
(Looks to Varro and Fabius) Goodbye
and may Mars protect you, friends.
Cornelius begins to leave out into the forum.
FABIUS
May Mars protect us all.
Cornelius stops for a moment and sighs heavily, and then he
continues to walk out of the senate.
CUT TO:
INT. CORNELIUS HOUSE DAY
We see Cornelius burst through the door to the household, the
slaves at the door timidly step aside as he does, avoiding
his rage. Cornelius stomps around, circling the atrium.
CORNELIUS
Aelius! Aelius!
AELIUS (O.S.)
Coming, dominus, coming.
We hear Aelius feet shuffle and Cornelius stops his circling
when Aelius enters the atrium. Aelius bows respectively.
CORNELIUS
Where is the military equipment
father left?
AELIUS
(WITH CONFUSION)
Military equipment, dominus?
Cornelius walks angrily to Aelius.
CORNELIUS
Damnit man! My sword, breastplate,
and crest! Where are they?
Aelius smiles in remembrance.
AELIUS
Ah, yes, dominus. Master Scipio
left them in your quarters.
34.
Cornelius begins to walk to his room but stops and turns his
head to Aelius.
CORNELIUS
With such a memory its hard to
believe your people were mighty
mathematicians, warriors and
philosophers.
Aelius hangs his head low.
AELIUS
Yes, dominus.
Cornelius turns his head back toward the direction he
intended to walk and then enters his room.
INT. CORNELIUS ROOM DAY
In the back corner of the room, adjacent to the bed is the
armor on its stand. A sword is respectively placed on the
bed. Cornelius walks over to the armor and lightly brushes
it, closing his eyes.
CORNELIUS
We will see what sits ill with the
people.
CUT TO:
EXT. STREET NIGHT
TITLE: Arminium
A dark, cloaked figure walks alone down a street. The moon is
shining fully and it leaves a small spotlight of sorts in the
street. The figure walks into the spotlight and we see that
it is GNAEUS FESTUS (late 30s), a muscular man with a
scruffy, unkempt face. On this street there is one light
besides the moon being emitted onto the cobblestone.
It is the light from an active tavern. Laughter, as well as
light, are being poured into the street. Gnaeus slowly walks
up to the taverns entrance, keeping alert and avoiding the
light.
The taverns entrance is decorated with graffiti. Still
draped in his cloak, Gnaeus walks into the tavern. He is
greeted by the sight of obnoxious gamblers, whores, and
drunkards. He observes the sight and smirks. He then sits
down at the one empty table.
35.
SERVING BOY soon comes to see to him.
SERVING BOY
What can I get you, friend?
GNAEUS
Wine should serve just fine, thank
you.
The boy nods respectively and goes off to get the order. A
loud cheer can be heard from the table on the right of
Gnaeus. He turns his head slowly to witness the orgy of
drunkenness.
He sees a group of men cheering and hugging in a brotherly
embrace. Gnaeus fixes his eye on a gentleman with black hair.
Unknown to Gnaeus, the mans name is MARCUS CARIUS (late
50s). Gnaeus furrows his brow at the sight on the man.
Gnaeus then turns his head back to where the serving boy left
and he is greeted by the boy fast pacing his way to Gnaeus
table. The boy sets the wine down and begins to leave. Gnaeus
grabs the boys arm.
GNAEUS (CONTD)
A shiny drachma for you if you tell
me that black haired fellows name.
SERVING BOY
The black haired fellow? The drunk
one?
GNAEUS
Is there a sober man in this
establishment, son?
SERVING BOY
Haha, you have a point there, sir.
I believe I know the man you speak
of. Marcus Carius is his name.
Tight purse strings he has. I have
two children and he sees fit to
give me a few olbas as a suitable
tip.
GNAEUS
Allow me to loosen my purse
strings.
(Reaches to belt and pulls
out at least a dozen coins
and places them on the
table)
Will fifteen drachma be suitable to
feed those two children of yours?
36.
SERVING BOY
(Smiles out of joy)
Aye, sir that will feed them
suitably for a while. Thank you,
master sir
(bows)
. What can I do in return?
GNAEUS
(Lifts up cup)
Filling this up would be a good
start
(finishes up the last of
the wine)
. Then you could fully repay me by
asking that Carius fellow to leave.
The boy steps back, fear takes over his eyes.
SERVING BOY
He wont take kindly, sir. I might
be struck.
GNAEUS
Trust me, hes barely able to
stand, he wont strike you.
The boy nods with doubt and runs off to get the wine.
He comes back speedily, nodding as he hands off the wine.
Then he awkwardly walks to Carius table. He is seen putting
his hand on Carius shoulder. Carius turns around and I seen
shouting then spitting in the boys face.
The boy leans back, awaiting a strike but it does come.
Carius is seen storming out of the tavern. Gnaeus finishes
off the second cup of wine and leaves a few drachma on the
table.
EXT. STREET NIGHT
Carius is seen leaning against the wall across the tavern, we
hear him urinating on the wall, muttering under his breath.
We then see Gnaeus walk out of the tavern.
He allows the door to close behind him and does not move. We
then see Carius backside and the urinating has finished. He
then turns around.
CARIUS
(DRUNKENLY)
Who the fuck are you?
37.
We see that Gnaeus has advanced to only a few feet in front
of Carius. He observes the man carefully.
GNAEUS
You are Marcus Carius, no?
CARIUS
Aye, who the fuck is asking?
GNAEUS
You are responsible for the deaths
of five women, ten children and
three men. The women raped along
with four of the children.
Carius is taken aback but being drunk and cocky, he regains a
smug face.
CARIUS
Is that a question?
GNAEUS
Its a sentence, you raping son of
a whore.
CARIUS
Watch your mouth you sniveling
pleb! I was under the command of my
boss, I was following orders.
Gnaeus swiftly grabs Carius by the neck and begins to choke
him, Carius desperately tries to grab Gnaeus hands with
little success.
GNAEUS
You and the soldier have one thing
in common: you murder for money.
You make others widows so your
wives can live comfortably
Gnaeus temporarily frees up one hand and pulls out a dagger
from the back of his belt. He then drives the dagger into
Carius gut and twists it, Carius loudly grunts.
Gnaeus lets Carius slide against the wall to the ground.
Carius is spitting up blood and struggling to speak.
GNAEUS (CONTD)
Last words for our knifeman?
Carius looks up at Gnaeus.
38.
CARIUS
Youre the murdering knifeman you
you whore your blade like a
prostitute whores her
Carius cannot finish his vulgarity, life escapes his eyes and
his limbs become limp.
CUT TO:
INT. TAVERN - NIGHT
This is a poorly lit tavern. It is quiet and tranquil.
We see TITUS (about 40) in the corner table of the tavern. In
front of him is a small sack. We are able to see the dark
figure twiddling his thumbs patiently. He finally stops and
we see another figure in front of his table from his
backside. We see the bloody dagger of Gnaeus in the back of
his belt.
GNAEUS
That my money, boss?
TITUS
Aye, that is, if Carius is dead.
GNAEUS
He is.
The dark figure lightly tosses Gnaeus the coin purse and
Gnaeus catches it.
TITUS
You did a good thing Gnaeus Festus,
never forget that.
GNAEUS
The more I do it, the less of moral
man I feel, Titus.
Titus leans back further into the darkness of the tavern.
TITUS
What is morality but the unwritten
laws between gods and men? Here in
Arminium, just be thankful to the
gods for the presence of a man like
me. Someone who justifies your
murders as moral.
39.
Gnaeus nods as though his act has been justified and leaves
the tavern.
CUT TO:
INT. GNAEUS HOME NIGHT
The door to this Roman flat opens slowly and we see Gnaeus
enter. He slowly closes the door behind him and places the
coin purse on a nearby table gently. He turns his head to his
left and we see an OLD WOMAN in the next room over, sleeping.
Gnaeus tiredly takes off the clothes he murdered in and
clumsily throws them on the same table as the coin. He then
looks forward and creeps to the bedroom ahead. In this bed is
JULIA FESTUS (mid 20s) and she too sleeps deeply.
Gnaeus walks into the room and crawls into the bed without
disturbing her. She grunts a little bit and Gnaeus freezes
out of fear he has awoken her.
She does not wake and we see Gnaeus spoon her and begin to
cuddle up to her. The last thing we see is Gnaeus shutting
his eyes and sighing heavily.
CUT TO:
INT. GNAEUS HOME DAY
We open on Gnaeus in his bed; his arm lies where his wife
used to be. We close on his face and we see it twitch. A male
scream is heard quietly echoing. He twitches again, more
violently. The scream is heard to be louder.
Gnaeus awakes and picks his head up from the pillow rapidly.
He darts his head about the room, making sure that he is
alone. After he is proven correct, he buries his head into
his cupped hands and sighs.
We see Julia walk in the doorway. See realizes that her
husband does not notice her and she clears her throat. Gnaeus
looks up and halfheartedly smiles at her.
GNAEUS
Why does lovely wife absent me her
presence upon the sheets this
morning?
Julia obediently smiles at her husband.
40.
JULIA
If it would please you more, dear
husband, I would accompany you now
and perform wifely duties.
GNAEUS
And domina in the adjacent room
would not mind the sound of her
daughter riding her husband?
Julia looks down at her hands, ashamed.
JULIA
Of course, wise husband. What a
foolish suggestion. You are so kind
and benevolent to allow her to stay
with us in her final months. I feel
the need to repay you.
Gnaeus gets out of the bed and stretches his naked body. He
looks down towards his waist and laughs.
GNAEUS
Well a fresh set of clothes would
suit me well, lest I present myself
indecent in front of your mother.
JULIA
She is bed-ridden and I fear shall
not rise today. But if it would
please you, I shall fetch you fresh
garb.
GNAEUS
It would please me despite your
mothers condition.
Julia nods obediently and leaves the doorway to the kitchen.
Gnaeus sits back down on the bed and sighs once more. There
is a window in the room and we see him stare out of it.
Off screen, we hear Julia breathing heavily. Gnaeus turns to
the doorway and Julia stands there, with Gnaeus bloody
clothes from the previous night. Gnaeus swallows and we see
Julias lips quiver.
JULIA
What is this, Gnaeus? Is this your
absence from our bed?
Gnaeus stands up and moves closer to Julia.
GNAEUS
Aye, my love, it is work.
41.
JULIA
What work demands so much blood?
GNAEUS
Gaius no longer sought need of me
at the market. Titus has opened a
butcher shop, I volunteered for
ample coin.
JULIA
A butcher?
GNAEUS
Aye, you are married to a butcher,
lovely wife. I hope I have not
offended you.
Julia tosses the clothes on the bed and cautiously hugs
Gnaeus.
JULIA
Of course not, Gnaeus. The only
small, meaningless offense is that
I was not informed of your career
decision.
We see Gnaeus smile.
GNAEUS
I meant to tell you through my own
designs. I hoped you discovered the
purse of heavy drachmas over that
of bloody garb.
Julia breaks the hug and looks back to the kitchen, then back
to Gnaeus.
JULIA
A heavy purse of coin graces us
with its presence?
GNAEUS
Aye and butchery proves to be quite
profitable.
Gnaeus smiles and returns Julia responds with a smile of her
own.
JULIA
Allow me to fetch fresh cloth,
husband.
Before she leaves the room, she kisses him lovingly.
42.
She is the first to pull out of the kiss and Gnaeus leans
back slightly, surprised by her affection.
GNAEUS
As loving wife desires.
Julia takes the bloody clothes and leaves the bedroom.
Gnaeus turns back to the window and puts his hands on his
head in aggravation.
GNAEUS (CONTD)
(WHISPERS)
Fuck Neptune's thorny cock...
Julia returns quickly with fresh clothes. She hands them to
Gnaeus and he takes them, quickly putting them on. He pulls
in close to Julia, holding her hips.
GNAEUS (CONTD)
I would see my wife happy and proud
in her husband. I would also see
her kissed before the day has
begun.
Julia smiles.
JULIA
Then seize upon grateful thighs and
see day begun in earnest.
Gnaeus kisses Julia passionately for a few moments. He then
leaves begins to take off her dress. Her full and beautiful
nudity is exposed. Gnaeus seizes her upon the bed, reaches
down towards his crotch and begins thrusting. The moans of
orgasm and ecstasy are heard escape both husband and wifes
lips.
CUT TO:
EXT. FIELD NIGHT
TITLE: Alps, Late 218 BC
Hannibals army is camped outside a mountain pass that leads
into the Alps. The army is breaking camp on a snow-laden
field. We see Hannibal, walking about his soldiers until he
finally reaches the entrance to his tent. When he gets to the
entrance, he turns his head to the Alps and looks at them
with fear. He then enters his tent.
43.
INT. TENT - NIGHT
Upon entering the tent, Hannibal is surprised to see his
brothers Mago and Hasdrubal in his tent. Hasdrubal seems to
be drunk and Mago looks at him in a concerned fashion.
Hannibal looks to Mago and Mago looks back, shrugging his
shoulders.
HANNIBAL
Ah, brothers, what a surprise to
see you here. Tell me, Hasdrubal,
werent you supposed to leave for
Iberia this morning?
Hasdrubal looks at Hannibal, angrily. He then tries to charge
Hannibal but Mago stops him and holds him back.
HASDRUBAL
(SLURRED) You dont tell me where I
am supposed to be, you fucking
cunt!
MAGO
(NERVOUSLY)
Stay calm, brother. Hold back your
sword and forget this ill-placed
grudge against your kin.
HASDRUBAL
Unhand me, little brother! Lest you
find yourself bereft of a cock!
Hannibal calmly watches his two brothers.
HANNIBAL
I would see you in Iberia, brother.
It is an important office I grant
you and here you aredrunk.
HASDRUBAL
I am not drunk, I am liberated! I
am free to speak my mind and it
dares me to say: Hannibal Barca,
you are a fucking cunt!
HANNIBAL
We are all Barcas here; there is no
need to clarify.
Hannibal smirks and gestures Mago to let Hasdrubal go.
Mago does so cautiously. Hasdrubal does not charge Hannibal
but instead, stays in place, holding back further anger.
44.
HASDRUBAL
You send meto my fucking doom,
brother. The Romans will attack us
relentlessly. I will be unable to
help you on your fools errand.
Hannibal puts his hand on Hasdrubals shoulder and leans in.
HANNIBAL
It is no fools errand I attend.
HASDRUBAL
You would see all of Carthage burn
for a blood oath to one man.
HANNIBAL
Not just any man, dear brother, our
father. Your father. His wish to me
and to all of us.
Hasdrubal sneers and pushes Hannibal away; he then walks out
of the tent. Mago follows in pursuit.
EXT. FIELD NIGHT
Mago is fast-walking behind Hasdrubal as he makes his way to
his horse. Just before Hasdrubal can make it to his horse
where a few Numidian cavalrymen wait for him, Mago stops
Hasdrubal.
MAGO
Go back into that tent and form an
apology before you leave.
HASDRUBAL
I shall not apologize to a cunt
that sees fit to ruin his own
nation.
MAGO
The war has barely begun and
already you see fit to speech with
a seditious tongue.
HASDRUBAL
I speak with a sensible one! Tell
me, dear Mago, would you fall to a
Roman sword for that suicidal
brother of ours?
Mago looks back at the tent and then to Hasdrubal.
45.
MAGO
He will find a way or he will make
one.
Hasdrubal scoffs and gets on the horse. He is last seen
riding out of the camp with the Numidian cavalrymen, leaving
Mago in the dust.
CUT TO:
EXT. FIELD DAY
We open on a bright, desert field. There are hundreds of dead
Roman soldiers strewn across the area. Small fires are seen
sporadically throughout the slaughter.
One man walks about the dead, it is Cornelius. He is panting
heavily and walks about with his sword unsheathed. He is
covered in blood and darts his head about the field, looking
for survivors. We close in on his face, he is panicked.
His lips begin to quiver and he falls to his knees, dropping
his sword. He buries his hands in his palms and screams. The
cry is heard echoing across the dead field.
We are still closed in on his head and we see a bright, white
hand touch the top of his head. Cornelius stops his weeping
and looks up. In front of him, we see the angelic MYSTERY
WOMAN (20s).
She emits a bright aura around herself and wears a see-
through, white silk dress. She is the epitome of youth and
beauty. Cornelius looks up and wipes away his tears. He
crawls on his knees closer to her and buries his head in her
waist. He begins to weep again.
MYSTERY WOMAN
Shush, my child, why do you weep?
For glory is strewn across this
field.
Cornelius looks up towards the woman and wipes his tears. He
stands up and hugs her tight, resting his head on her
shoulder.
CORNELIUS
This is glory? Thisslaughter?
The woman forces Cornelius head off her shoulder and holds
it tight, looking directly into his eyes.
46.
MYSTERY WOMAN
Slaughter is always glorious when
it benefits Rome.
CORNELIUS
The newly appointed widows and
withering mothers in her majestic
streets are not benefited.
The woman slaps Cornelius and he backs away.
MYSTERY WOMAN
This is your future, Cornelius
Scipio. Africa shall be your
future. Africa shall bend her knee.
Africa shall be yours.
(She walks up to him and
kisses him. Then she puts
her mouth to his ear.)
(WHISPERS)
But only if you accept this glory
CUT TO:
INT. CORNELIUS TENT - DAY
Cornelius shoots upward, escaping his dream. He puts out his
hands and looks intently into his palms. He then proceeds to
bury his face into his palms and let go a muffled scream.
Outside the camp, we hear the sounds of an army camp.
Aelius pops into the tent unannounced. When he notices his
master is awake, he tries to retreat back out into the camp.
CORNELIUS
Dont scurry off, Aelius. Do you
need something?
Aelius turns back to his master, looking somewhat ashamed.
AELIUS
Multiple pieces of news have
reached us, dominus, and I had
hoped to engage you about them
after you had eaten.
CORNELIUS
I assume that means none of them
are good?
AELIUS
Correct, dominus.
47.
Aelius stands there, awaiting some kind of command.
CORNELIUS
Well, out with it, you bloody fool!
AELIUS
The centurion told me to tell you
that a messenger came bearing news
CORNELIUS
By all the gods, we already got
past that! Tell me, Aelius, what
has happened.
AELIUS
I fear, dominus, that the general
Hannibal is said to have bypassed
your father and uncle at Massalia.
Hannibal is said to be traveling to
Italy via the Alps. Where he will
emerge no one knows. Your father
rides south to Rome while your
uncle goes to Iberia in hopes of
gaining a victory.
Cornelius gets out of his bed, shocked.
CORNELIUS
I do not know whether to be
impressed or terrified, dear
Aelius. And, what other news came
from the messenger?
AELIUS
The Boii and Insurbes are in full
revolt in Cisapline Gaul. Being the
opportunistic Gauls they are they
have seen fit to challenge Rome.
CORNELIUS
Maybe the one thing us Greeks and
Romans can agree on is mutual
hatred for fucking Gauls.
Cornelius gestures Aelius to leave and he listens.
Cornelius returns to his bed, sits and buries his hands in
his hands. He brings up his head.
CORNELIUS (CONTD)
I fear there is no glory to accept,
Minerva.
48.
END ACT TWO
CUT TO:
ACT THREE
INT. TAVERN DAY
It is the tavern where we first saw Titus. Titus and Gnaeus
now sit across from each other at a table, drinking wine. All
around the calm men there is drunkenness and joy among the
other tavern attendees.
TITUS
Tell me, Gnaeus, how is that wife
of yours?
GNAEUS
Comfortable, thanks to you.
Titus and Gnaeus both smile.
TITUS
You said her mother was staying
with you in her last days, correct?
GNAEUS
Aye, that is correct. While I
despise her mood-shattering
presence, I must admit I admire the
elderly when they are near deaths
embrace.
TITUS
Oh? And why is that?
GNAEUS
Of all the things they could be
doing, they nag. They could be
trying to live whatever life is
left in them but instead they nag.
There is too much light in the
room, this water tastes like piss,
this blanket is itchy. Of all the
ways you could end your life,
thats the way they end it. They
dont justify their miserable
lives; they just try to keep living
it in a miserable fashion.
Titus nods and smiles, not replying to Gnaeus comment.
49.
Titus finishes his wine and lightly slams the cup on the
table.
TITUS
Speaking of miserable lives, I have
another contract for you. This one
is from a senator of the Republic.
Gnaeus puts down his cup and leans in.
GNAEUS
And what does the fine senator
desire?
TITUS
Another senator dead. A man by the
name of Fabius Maximus. A former
consul and the diplomat who went to
Carthage to try and sort out this
horrible mess before it began.
GNAEUS
You would have me kill a senator of
Rome? Youve bumped me up to
drunkards to major political
officials it would seem, Titus.
TITUS
Listen, the pay is good.
GNAEUS
In this case, the pay doesnt
matter. How would I justify such a
crime?
Titus leans back and smirks.
TITUS
Thats right; I forgot you are a
moral killer. You need
justification for killing this
Fabius Maximus? Think of it this
way. He could have ended a war but
he didnt. Now countless numbers of
men are going to die for this mans
mistake. Theres your fucking
justification, Gnaeus!
GNAEUS
Rest easy, Titus. I would see your
mood calmed and mouth filled with
wine instead of bitter words. I
shall accept this contract for the
justification is grand enough.
50.
Titus nods happily, recovering from the violent episode. Both
men drink in silence for awhile.
TITUS
I would see all of Arminium fall
under my fucking heel. I would see
you, myself and the entirety of
this sorry bunch to greater laurels
and economic victories. I would see
us to the gates of Rome itself and
I would see us piss upon it. Not in
disrespect of the city itself but
in disrespect of those we once
previously called "dominus".
We close in on his face as he finishes his wine and lightly
places the cup on the table.
INT. MEDICAL TENT - NIGHT
In this medical tent, there are many sleeping. We see Caius
in one bed, sleeping soundly. From the tent's entrance, we
see Atilius entering, holding the dagger timidly.
Caius tosses and turns in a quick, soft episode. Atilius
stops, fearing he has been discovered. Caius stops this
episode and Atilius then resumes his creeping towards Caius.
Atilius leans over Caius' bed and holds the dagger close to
Caius' neck. His hand trembles. Atilius begins to breath
erratically but calms himself down, takes a deep breath and
plunges the dagger into Caius' neck.
Caius' eyes open and his hands rush to the dagger, attempting
to pull it out. In his spasm, Caius falls off the bed and
rolls around on the group, attempting to breath but choking
on his own blood.
Out of fear, Atilius backs away from the bed and runs out of
the tent.
EXT. CAMP - NIGHT
As soon as Atilius exits the tent, he is tackled by Lucius
and punched repeatedly in the face. He turns his head behind
him. Behind Lucius, we see little flickers of torchlight.
LUCIUS
Here he is boys, I've found the
traitorous cunt!
The torchlight becomes more visible.
51.
ATILIUS
Lucius, what are you doing? I did
what you said! Caius is dead!
Lucius punches Atilius in the face again.
LUCIUS
I know, boy. And I could not thank
you enough.
Lucius smiles and the SOLDIERS are now behind Lucius. The
PREFECT (40s) puts his hand on Lucius' shoulder, forcing him
off Atilius.
PREFECT
I could not thank you enough,
Junior Centurion Pomponious. Tell
me, did you stop this slippery,
traitorous newt before he could
slay Caius?
LUCIUS
To much regret and self-loathing, I
was unable to stop this bastard
before he slew my comrade.
The prefect dashes a look into the open tent flap and looks
to Atilius.
PREFECT
Such a shame to lose a veteran of
insurrection to a pink-faced
weakling of treachery. I would see
this man flogged to death in front
of the rest of the maniple. A
lesson to those who would slay
their brothers while they sleep.
LUCIUS
I would support such a well-
deserved punishment.
PREFECT
And you, Lucius, I would see you
take the position of once a trusted
officer. If you would accept such
an office, of course.
Lucius smiles and his eyes light up.
52.
LUCIUS
I would love nothing more than to
honor the Republic and a once
trusted friend and officer. I have
just one request.
PREFECT
That being?
LUCIUS
I would oversee the flogging and
death of Atilius here, whose heart
burns with the fire of betrayal for
all that is honorable.
Atilius is too weak to protest and simply whimpers. Lucius
looks down at him and smiles.
INT. HOUSE - DAY
The door to this Roman house opens and Titus enters.
TITUS
Decimus, I am home!
A boy, DECIMUS (15) quickly arrives with his male companion
JUNIUS (15). They walk to Titus side-by-side. Titus is taken
aback by the presence of Junius.
TITUS (CONTD)
Oh, sorry Junius, I was unaware you
were present.
JUNIUS
It is quite alright, sir. I was
requested here by your son.
Junius smiles and looks to Decimus.
DECIMUS
Aye, it is true, I summoned him.
You said that with Carius dead, we
might expect some violent committed
in our own home. I figured two
young, able-bodied men would be
more suited to the homestead's
defense.
Titus smiles.
53.
TITUS
And you would see a good family
friend joined in the glorious
defense and slaughter?
DECIMUS
I would see us glorified.
Decimus and Junius both smile. Titus becomes somewhat
impatient.
TITUS
Junius, a thousand apologies and I
would hope you do not infer my lack
of interest in pleasantries for
rudeness but I have matters to
discuss with Decimus.
JUNIUS
Of course, sir. I will leave
presently.
TITUS
Please, Junius, you've known me for
years. I would see you call me
Titus.
JUNIUS
As you command, Titus.
Junius nods respectively to both Titus and Decimus. Junius
opens the door and leaves the house. Once the door closes,
Titus walks past Decimus and sits at a nearby table.
TITUS
Please, my son, have a seat.
DECIMUS
I would rather stand if it please
you, father.
TITUS
Very well.
There is an awkward silence for a few moments.
TITUS (CONTD)
Now I understand it is an
uncomfortable prospect, Decimus.
Yet it is one we must pursue
further. Cassia's father would be
more than happy to see his daughter
to your arms and your happiness
guaranteed.
54.
DECIMUS
And with my happiness, will come a
cemented alliance between the two
largest gangs in Arminium.
TITUS
Don't act so cynical, boy. You are
too young to be so cynical.
Granted, this marriage has lasting
political benefits for me but I do
it to make you happy and to see you
sire children.
DECIMUS
And if children do not interest me?
TITUS
That is irrelevant I fear.
Decimus shrugs his head and shoulders and remains silent.
TITUS (CONTD)
You are no longer a boy, Decimus.
You are fifteen, almost sixteen!
Nearly a man. I would see childish
things like your friend Junius put
aside so that more mature pursuits
may begin.
Decimus looks back to the door.
DECIMUS
If that is the case, father, may I
catch and say goodbye to such a
childish thing?
Titus grunts out of awkwardness and gestures Decimus to the
door. Decimus eagerly leaves.
EXT. STREET - DAY
Junius stands only a few feet away from the door of the
house. He smiles when he sees Decimus and Decimus returns the
smile. Decimus stands close in front of Junius. Junius bumps
up against the wall of the house.
Decimus then passionately kisses Junius. After a few moments,
the two unlock their lips and smile. Decimus' face then
becomes somber.
55.
DECIMUS
He commands me to matrimony and
would see us torn apart from loving
embrace.
JUNIUS
He cannot tear apart something
which he does not know about. Tell
him.
DECIMUS
I...I cannot. Could you imagine
what that would do to him? What it
would do to his gang of knifemen?
JUNIUS
Decimus, you act so nervously. A
man's affection to another man is
as natural as the wind.
DECIMUS
Yes but marrying said man that
offers no political gain is
unnatural and perverted...in the
eyes of my father.
JUNIUS
Is it your father's words which you
speak or that of your thoughts?
Decimus leans back, somewhat offended.
DECIMUS
Sweet Junius, what we have I would
trade for the finest wines or
silks. Yet I would not see you
killed for having a misplaced
affection towards me.
JUNIUS
And sweet Decimus, I have known you
since we were of the age of ten.
Right after your mother passed,
there I found you in the alleyway
crying. And from your weakness and
emotional depravity, I hoisted you
upwards. Our affections grew, our
kindness love and acceptance
towards one another grew. Now we
share lips, a bed and our very
souls.
(MORE)
56.
JUNIUS (CONTD)
My affection is anything but
misplaced, it is fated by the gods
themselves and I would defend such
fate with sword, shield and my very
life.
Decimus cannot find the words to respond, he hugs Junius
tighter and brings him in towards his lips. The two share a
prolonged, affectionate kiss.
EXT. CAMP DAY
We see Cornelius on his horse, leading his maniples into the
maniple camp of Atilius. Cornelius proudly rides into the
camp and sees a gathering of men in the center of the camp
who all attentively stand at attention in a circle formation.
Cornelius, struck by curiosity, rides ahead of his men to the
gathering. Upon arriving, we see that the soldiers surround
Atilius whose back is naked and propped up. A man with a whip
stands behind Atilius, ready to strike.
In front of Atilius is Lucius, who stands at attention.
Walking around Atilius is the prefect.
PREFECT
This man--no, this traitorous
whore! Was found plunging a dagger
into the neck of our once loved
Senior Centurion Lucanus! Being the
coward he is, he struck like a
coward! Upon the night and the
shadows he dwelt and killed an
officer who he previously had a
drunken quarrel with.
Atilius weakly lifts up his head.
ATILIUS
I...I never had...a drunken
quarrel. I do...do not drink.
The prefect turns to Atilius, walks up to him and strikes him
with his fist.
PREFECT
Shut the fuck up you cowardly cunt!
The prefect calms down and begins to walk around Atilius
again.
57.
PREFECT (CONTD)
This man, this boy, betrayed his
nation. He betrayed his republic.
He betrayed himself. But most
importantly, he betrayed the rule
of law in my maniple! He would see
us reduced to a squabbling mob! He
would see us reduced to anarchy
with his treachery! He would see
this very republic fall to the
Carthaginian swine which we battle
soon! This boy is himself the
epitome of swine which does not
deserve to draw sacred breathe! For
such betrayal deserves only one
punishment and that is death! This
coward will die by the use of the
whip upon his back. He will die as
though he was a common, disobedient
slave. On the order of our new,
tortured Senior Centurion
Pomponious, the punishment shall
commence.
Lucius smiles and the prefect looks to him, nodding. Lucius
begins to open his mouth.
CORNELIUS
Hold your tongue, centurion!
Cornelius gets off his horse and pushes through the crowd of
soldiers and walks up to Atilius. The prefect steps in
angrily.
PREFECT
I will assume that horse and armor
guarantees you rank over me. I
would think you would not have the
balls to stop this sacred order
otherwise.
CORNELIUS
You like to talk but not to think.
I am the son of Publius Cornelius
Scipio whose legion is just a
little way up this road.
The prefect instantly salutes Cornelius, Cornelius weakly
salutes back.
CORNELIUS (CONTD)
Even I, from yonder distance, heard
of this boy's confession.
(MORE)
58.
CORNELIUS (CONTD)
The confession being he has never
taken drink.
PREFECT
Surely it was nothing more than the
babbling of a scared child, sir.
Cornelius turns to the soldiers.
CORNELIUS
Men! I give you permission to speak
freely! How many of you have seen
this man take drink?
SOLDIER #1
Not me, sir!
SOLIDER # 2
Nor I, sir!
Almost the entire maniple begins to shout negative replies.
Cornelius smiles and turns back to the prefect.
CORNELIUS
It would seem this quarrel before
the murder was not one of
drunkenness and therefore, this boy
was in a brawl of survival. Surely,
even a traitor like this, would not
be the first to attack an officer?
And following this logic, the boy's
following attack was one of
vengeance and perhaps self-defense.
PREFECT
It still does not justify the act
off murdering an officer.
CORNELIUS
It is not about justification, it
is about understanding the context.
Let me tell you the current
context. Hannibal is en route to
burst from our natural gates. I
have been ordered to pick up every
maniple and man I can get to
properly supply my father's army. I
would see this context understood
and this boy cut down.
The prefect hestitates but eventually unsheathes his sword
and cuts Atilius from his bonds. Atilius falls to the group
and slowly gets up. He weakly stands at attention in front of
Cornelius.
59.
ATILIUS
Thank...thank you, sir.
CORNELIUS
Do not thank me, thank the context.
Now off to your tent. We break camp
and head off to fight greater foes
than betrayal.
Atilius trudges off to his tent. Cornelius looks to the
prefect. Lucius glares at Atilius as he walks by.
CORNELIUS (CONTD)
Now, prefect, break this camp and
have your men join my formation. We
are off to north.
INT. OFFICER'S TENT LATER THAT SAME DAY
Inside this officer's tent, there is a large table that is
host to a great feast and many drunk officers. Cornelius sits
soberly in the middle of the drunkenness while Publius sits
at the head of the table, somewhat drunk.
Publius stands up. The rest of the officers, including
Cornelius, stand up.
PUBLIUS
Men of Rome. Leadership of her
glory. Disciplines of her holy
armies. I beg a toast from you this
evening. Here we wait for Hannibal
and his barbarian hordes. Now the
craftiness of this man is to rival
that of a Jew but let us not
completely slander him. He shall be
our greatest bane and I fear he
shall salt our fields, rape our
women, slaughter our grand men.
Yet, he shall fall. He shall fall
to us. For everyone falls and
trembles to the might of the
republic and her virtue! The
Samnites, the Gauls, the Greeks and
even the Carthaginians have fallen
to our mighty swords before. By all
that is good, virtuous, just in the
world it shall happen again!
The officers, except for Cornelius, all express a drunken
cheer. They then sit down. Slaves enter the tent, bringing
more wine and wood.
60.
One slave girl, SEPTIMA (20s), fills the cup of Publius.She
is the earthly embodiment of the MYSTERY WOMAN. She leaves
the tent quickly.
Cornelius takes note of her and finishes off his wine and
exits the tent, following the girl.
EXT. CAMP - NIGHT
Next to the open tent flap, Septima stands attentively.
Cornelius exits the tent. He moves next to Septima and looks
at her meaningfully. Septima takes note of his gaze.
SEPTIMA
May I serve you, dominus?
CORNELIUS
You are the embodiment of a dream I
have.
SEPTIMA
You flatter beyond reason, dominus.
Is there something I can help you
with?
CORNELIUS
Tell me, who are you? I have never
seen you among the troupe of slaves
we carry.
SEPTIMA
I am your father's body slave,
dominus.
CORNELIUS
I do not mean your position, I mean
your name. What is your name?
SEPTIMA
They call me Septima, dominus.
CORNELIUS
Septima, that is a beautiful name.
Tell me, you are a body slave, yes?
Cornelius moves closer, Septima holds her position.
SEPTIMA
Yes, dominus.
CORNELIUS
Then tell me, has my father defiled
you with his grimy cock yet?
61.
Septima becomes uncomfortable.
SEPTIMA
Dominus...has not seized such an
advantage yet. He claims that he is
too old to be doing such things
with slave.
Cornelius nods understandingly.
CORNELIUS
I did not mean to make you
uncomfortable, Septima. It was a
simple question and a simple answer
was received. For that, I thank
you. Please know, I would never
defile you unless consent was given
to be defiled.
SEPTIMA
Yes, dominus.
Cornelius kisses her hand and walks back into the tent.
EXT. MOUNTAIN PASS - NIGHT
There is a heavy snow falling on the Carthaginian army as it
marches through the mountain pass. We see some soldiers
simply fall when marching and ahead of the column, we see
Hannibal. He is riding an elephant. The elephant trumpets.
THE END