Three battles into the second war between Carthage and Rome, the Republic was reeling.
Hannibal Barca moved through the countryside burning, looting, and attracting recruits and supplies from disgruntled city residents and tribesmen.
Cornelius Scipio remained with the forward Legions, taking any position available. It spoke well of his loyalty, but his actions hid a deeper secret. Cornelius feared the Scipio men would be accused of being cowards. With his father and uncle in Iberia, and seemingly avoiding the Punic General, it was up to him to fight for his family's reputation.
Jace Kasia had no family but had a goal to be recognized as a Cretan archer. On the banks of Lake Trasimene, he earned the position of File Leader. Except he lacked the years of seasoning gained by the older archer commanders. The experience would come if he lived through the campaigns while fighting for Rome. And fight for Rome he must.
Both young men owed their advancements to defiant personalities. While some might argue they were too young, General Hannibal and his mercenaries didn't care. They would kill every Republic soldier and commander with no pity for the rebellious.
