Watch Your Back
By William V Weeks
Copyright 2016
This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales are purely coincidental. The characters are productions of the author’s imagination and used fictitiously.
Chapter 1
A wise man once said a boy doesn’t become a man until his father dies. Like many sons, Tallis dreamed of following in Coridan’s footsteps, and so he joined Herod’s Army at the age of eighteen. Two years later, the father died at the hand of Zealots as he walked home, alone, one night. While the dream of becoming a Centurion never died, the memory of that tragic night continued to haunt the son who held the rank of Decanus.
On the third anniversary of his father’s death, Tallis and four of his soldiers patrolled the streets of Hammath until the end of the second watch. Since the night of Coridan’s murder, the area from Magdala to the south end of Galilee’s largest lake managed to remain trouble free, and by the time Tallis crawled into bed, Abigail was asleep. The Decanus dozed off the instant he hit the mattress. Five hours later the sun would rise.
Tallis awoke at the sound of men screaming. Cordian's voice stood out above the others. “Help me, son.”
The Decanus leaped from his bed, expecting to see his father standing close by. “I’m coming, father.”
The yells and screams grew louder as shadows danced as his eyes adjusted to the darkness. As he grabbed his sword, a figure emerged to his left, charging toward Tallis, who swung the weapon, and the attacker fell. One down. A glimmer of moonlight shone into the room through the only window. Tallis felt his heart racing as he surveyed his surroundings. The screaming continued, and his father’s voice cried out one last time. “Tallis, help me! Hurry.”
“I’m coming.” Something moved off to his right, and the Decanus sprung forward while slashing his sword. Blood began pouring out of the victim’s abdomen as Tallis headed toward his father’s voice, calling out, “Father.” No reply came, and a third shadow appeared a few feet away. Once again, Tallis swung, and the attacker keeled over.
As the first rays of the morning sun began to filter into the room. Tallis turned and prepared for another attack, only to see Abigail holding a small oil lamp in her hand. “What are you doing?”
Tallis didn’t respond as he continued to check the area and realized the blood and bodies of his attackers weren’t there, and neither was his father. Abigail placed the lamp on a nearby stool before wrapping her arms around her husband. Tallis began to tremble. His nightmare had vanished as tears cascaded down his cheeks.
“I heard my father call my name. I tried to rescue him from his attackers, but he bled to death before I could reach him.”
“Come, my dear. Sit on the bed. You’re covered with sweat.”
Tallis dropped the sword and surveyed his damaged home. He’d managed to destroy most of the furniture. One stool remained, and he tried to hide his embarrassment.
Abigail sat next to her husband, placing her arm around his shoulders, and encouraged him to discuss his dream. “We can talk later. I need to meet with my soldiers and head to Tiberias. My Centurion might discipline us if we don’t arrive on time.” I don’t want Kaleb to find out what happened this morning. He might shame me in front of my colleagues and the entire Century.
“Here’s a wet cloth, dear. Wash your face while I fix you a bite to eat. You can’t let your men see you looking red-faced and teary-eyed.”
After cleaning up and putting on his uniform, Tallis gathered his weapons. Abigail handed him two small loaves of bread along with a few figs to eat on the march to the fortress. “I’ll speak with Moss when I return. I hope he can repair the damage I caused.”
Tallis kissed Abigail goodbye, she whispered to him, “Please watch your back today, dear.”
Stepping into the street, the Decanus headed toward the marketplace to meet his troops, while his wife closed and barred the door behind him.
For generations, Hammath had served as the major commercial center on the western shore of Galilee’s largest lake, but everything changed when Herod Antipas built his new city in honor of the Roman Emperor, Tiberias. Today, fewer than 200 Jews lived in what had become an insignificant village. Tallis led a Conturbenium of eight soldiers. Their assignment, protect people living in town and those traveling from Tiberias south to end of the lake. As he walked, Tallis wondered if his wife thought his dream served as an omen. Three years ago today, my father died at the hands of a band of Zealots. This morning, my soldiers and I will travel along the same highway to our meeting in Tiberias. Why my father decided to walk home, in the middle of the night, alone, is something I’ll never understand. They teach us to work in pairs or larger teams.
Three soldiers waited for Tallis when he arrived at the marketplace. “Good morning.”
Bazak’s comment caught him by surprise. “Tallis, you look terrible.”
The Decanus thought he’d washed away any sign of this morning’s fiasco. “I’m fine. Why?”
“You have red and watery eyes.”
“I said I'm okay.”
“So why the big sigh, sir?”
“Enough talk. Here come the others. It’s time to leave. Bazak, you and Shet will join with me this morning. The rest of you will remain on duty in Hammath.”
As the three soldiers began their trek, Tallis crossed the road and handed a loaf of bread and his figs to an old man leaning against one of the buildings. “Take these. It looks like you could use something to eat.” When he turned around, a well-dressed young man appeared from the shadows and bumped into the Decanus’s shoulder as he ran out the gate. “Stop!” The runner didn’t bother to slow his pace or look back as he ran north.
“Do you want me to chase him, sir?”
“Don’t bother, Bazak. He has too large a lead. Do you happen to know his name?
”His name is, Dan, sir.”
On the march to Tiberias, Tallis wondered why a young fellow, dressed in fancy clothes would bother running to Tiberias. What’s the rush? Nobody chased him. The soldiers entered Tiberias through the south gate and continued to the fortress located near the marketplace in the center of the city. Herod’s capitol served as a showcase for the entire Galilean Province. Whitewashed exteriors with red tile roofs adorned the government buildings. Homes and other structures received regular cleanings as did the cobblestone roadways. If Caesar Tiberias paid a visit to the community, he’d marvel at its magnificence along with the view of the lake bearing his name. With the construction of Tiberias, Hammath lost its charm from centuries ago, and the ancient city plummeted into decay. The builders of Hammath used basalt stones for everything. Tallis hated the color gray and vowed to one day paint his front door a bright color.
Shet and Bazak crossed the fortress courtyard, heading to their assigned station while Tallis entered the main building for his daily briefing with his fellow Decanuses serving under Kaleb, their Centurion. He arrived last and sat on an empty stool, closest to conference room door. Their superior officer joined them before Tallis could greet his comrades and everyone rose and stood at attention.
“Sit down,” Kaleb said as he glanced around the room. “Good morning, everyone. A few minutes ago, I met with our Commander, Nikolaos. He directed me to share some new information with you.” The Centurion took a deep breath before continuing. “I’m certain you all realize Zealots continue to wreak havoc throughout Lower Galilee. So far, the area around the lake remains peaceful. But we’ve heard rumors indicating these troublemakers may plan to shift their attention to the region from Capernaum south to Hammath.” Kaleb paused and looked at Tallis. “Nikolaos gave me specific orders to prevent any attacks from occurring in the territory under my command.”
The room remained silent as Kaleb continued to stare at Tallis. What does he want from me? A response? How can my Conturbenium prevent something from happening in Hammath? Impossible.
Kaleb continued. “This morning’s report is nothing more than a rumor, but I expect each of you to remain more vigilant over the next few days. At least until the talk of trouble subsides. I also want you and your troops to expand the hours you patrol from sunrise until the end of the second watch, rather than sunset.”
Tallis and his colleagues began to grumble amongst themselves over the new directive. How do I divide my team to cover two unsecured gates, the village, and an entire lakeshore within our town walls? We need to work in pairs for protection. When do we eat, or get a break? I hope one of my colleagues says something. At least they have ten soldiers in their Conturbeniums.
Kaleb continued to focus on Tallis as if waiting for his young Decanus to respond. “I don’t know when these alleged attacks will occur. Your assignment is to remain vigilant and prevent assaults from happening in your assigned areas. This is Nikolaos’s decree to everyone.”
The Conturbenium leaders continued to grumble amongst themselves. Tallis thought the directive placed an impossible burden upon him and the soldiers he led. Their Centurion’s voice silenced the room. “You have your orders. It’s not your place to question your senior officers. Perform your duties with distinction without complaining.”
Tallis didn’t wait for Kaleb to call his name. He stood, hands on hips, and glared at his Commander. “It’s impossible to prevent disruptions in our communities. I’m confused. My Conturbenium remains understaffed. How do we cover our entire village and the highway south to the end of the lake? We can’t do what you’re asking with ten men either.” His colleagues lowered their eyes as he spoke.
The Centurion stared at his Decanus, fists clenched, and stepped closer to Tallis as he sat down. “I realize you’re short-handed, young man. I wish I had extra troops available to give everyone, but Nikolaos didn’t provide me with any more information than I shared with you. Does anyone else have a question? Good. Go back to your regions.”
The soldiers stood and walked toward the door as Kaleb spoke and pointed to the nearest stool. “Tallis, don’t leave.”
Following his Centurion’s advice, Tallis sat down. Am I in trouble for speaking out? Kaleb sat next to his Decanus after everyone else had left the room.
“How are you feeling this morning, young man? You look troubled. What’s the problem?”
Tallis paused, trying to gather his thoughts. Kaleb seldom spoke in such a soft, caring voice to anyone. “I’m frustrated, sir―I find the orders impossible to follow. I don’t have enough troops to perform our mission. When do we sleep? Six hours isn’t adequate rest if you expect us to remain alert and perform our duties with distinction.” He placed his arms in his lap when he felt them twitching, hoping his Superior wouldn’t notice.
“There’s more going on than this, isn’t there, Tallis.”
“Sir?”
“You appear dejected this morning. Like you’re feeling a heavy weight pressing down on your shoulders. You can’t be an effective leader when you’re depressed or under stress. Talk to me.”
Kaleb’s words stunned Tallis. He thought he’d hidden his feelings from everyone, but Bazak had made a similar observation in the marketplace. “I miss my father, sir. He died three years ago today, and I keep thinking how he used to bring me to the fortress in Sepphoris and Tiberias after his transfer. I spent many days inside these walls, as a youngster, and a soldier. He was my hero, but I couldn’t help him when he needed me most.”
Kaleb smiled. “Everyone misses Coridan, Tallis. Your father was my friend and mentor. I try to honor his memory daily. I treasured his compassion and for giving me the opportunity to learn from him. He was a great leader like you will become one day. I’m sorry for your loss, but you can hold your head high, knowing he loved you. Since his death, you’ve become my best Decanus, and I am proud of you.”
Tallis lowered his eyes. “Thank you, sir. I appreciate your kind words.”
“Now, let’s discuss how we can protect Hammath. I’m confident you and your soldiers can handle the assignment, and today, I am adding two new soldiers to your squad. This will increase your team to ten. The same as the other Conturbeniums. This is the best I can do for now. I know you asked for two more men months ago. I’m sorry it took so long to fill your request.”
Tallis nodded. Do I thank him or not? “Do they have the skills needed to fight if the Zealots attack us?”
“Both men completed basic training. In fact, Nikolaos made the decision to assign the pair to your team. I’ve been pressuring him to increase the size of your squad.”
“Kaleb, do you ever wonder how well our soldiers will perform in combat?”
“Why would you ask such a question? You lead the best Conturbenium in my Century.”
“Thank you for the compliment, but all my men are all Jewish. The Zealots causing trouble in Israel are too. This concerns me. If we come under attack, will some of my soldiers switch their loyalty in the heat of battle, and fight against Herod?”
“Your troops swore their allegiance to the Tetrarch when they enlisted. So did you, Tallis.”
“I know, but the Jews make up such a small percentage of the population living in Galilee, and most hate Herod for a variety of reasons.”
“What are you implying, young man?” Kaleb stood and stepped into the hallway, looking both directions before re-entering and closing the door. “You never know who's listening, and what we discuss cannot leave this room.”
“I know you’ve heard the rumors, sir. Not long ago, a few Jewish soldiers stationed near Shimron switched sides and fought with the Zealots when they came under attack. Other times troops disobeyed orders and refused to fight. I hope these two additions to my team will stand with us rather than turn and run. What if something similar happened the night my father died? Where were his soldiers? He knows not to work alone. It’s too dangerous, especially at night.”
“We won’t know the answer to your question until you and your soldiers face such a situation, but I doubt your father’s soldiers helped the Zealots who killed him in any way. His men loved Coridan. I did too. I trust all our troops will honor their oath and perform their duties well.” Kaleb paused, leaned forward, and lowered his voice. “We try to enlist soldiers with previous military experience, and from different countries. Finding qualified candidates is next to impossible. Sooner or later, Herod will need to begin taking anyone who shows an interest in serving. If they don’t want to work for the Tetrarch, they can enlist with the Romans.” Kaleb paused before whispering, “I don’t want you discussing our conversation with anyone, Tallis. We’d both be in trouble.”
Tallis nodded and smiled. Kaleb’s words had surprised him, but he was glad others feared the same thing he did. “I hope I never find myself in a situation where the loyalty of my men comes into question.”
Kaleb rubbed his chin. “Your soldiers respect you, Tallis, and so do I.” He took a deep breath and exhaled. “I have one more thing to share with you. … I plan to retire in the next year or so. Needless to say, Nikolaos, Herod, and his other confidants hold you in high esteem, despite your young age. I expect they’ll promote you to fill my position when I leave the army because you’re the only Decanus in my Century with battle experience.”
The news stunned Tallis. He never dreamed Kaleb would retire. Coridan could retire if he’d lived another year. “Thank you for your kind words, sir. I try to perform my job well. It’s my goal to follow in my father’s footsteps and become a Centurion. I don’t want to ruin his legacy. Do you believe Herod will promote me? After all, my mother’s Hebrew and none of Herod’s officers are Jewish. Won’t he question my loyalty?”
Kaleb’s head snapped back. “Despite your mother’s heritage, Herod views you as he did your father, as a Greek. You look Greek, not Hebrew like your brothers. Y
ou have blond hair and blue eyes, and an excellent physique plus superior height. This enables you to see what’s going on in crowded situations and helps you maintain order when troubles arise. Count your blessings, Tallis, but keep in mind, if conflict raises its head, your troops must step up and control the situation. Failure to do your job may jeopardize your future in the Army. No promotion and possible demotion or termination from the service is a possibility.” Kaleb paused, waiting for a response, but Tallis remained silent. “I trust you understand the seriousness of the issues we face. Herod despises troublemakers, and he wants these Zealots stopped at all costs. I could lose my pension if my soldiers fail me, and I can’t allow such a thing to happen.”
Tallis never realized his superiors paid any attention to him. How do I respond to his comments? I’m pleased Kaleb thinks I’ll receive a promotion, but worried my men and I won’t meet his expectations. Can my troops and I prevent something from happening before it occurs? Impossible. I must resolve this predicament somehow. “I’ll do my best not to let you down, sir. Thank you for your support.”
Kaleb smiled as he stood. “Your father would be proud of you. Let’s go meet your new soldiers.”
Returning to the courtyard, the Centurion introduced Tallis to Acaph and Mered, two of the unlikeliest soldiers he’d ever met stood before him. Short and pudgy, both of them. I bet they couldn’t run more than a hundred paces if a lion chased after them. “Tallis, I want you and the men who accompanied you this morning to introduce yourselves and get to know your new troops during your return to Hammath.” The Decanus nodded. “Make sure you inform your entire squad of the changes in patrolling routines. I’m counting on your Conturbenium to perform your jobs with distinction. I’ll see you tomorrow morning.”
With the introductions completed, Tallis led his soldiers back to Hammath. As they walked, the Decanus tried to figure out how to prevent attacks from happening. His Conturbenium faced an impossible task. How do I find out how or where these rumored assaults will occur so I can station my men in appropriate positions and prevent any criminal activity? Several challenges faced his soldiers and him. The Zealots could hide behind the many basalt pillars near the town’s north entrance, or the olive grove up ahead. The village gates didn’t have doors to prevent access during the night. Who knows, if we capture or kill the Zealots, Herod might promote me before Kaleb retires. He might transfer me, though, and Abigail wouldn’t want to move away from her mother and family.
Entering Hammath through the north gate, Tallis heard a whizzing sound before a rock struck Acaph’s shield. Thinking they were under attack the soldiers formed a protective circle, with their backs to the center. Within seconds, Shet and Bazak broke formation and followed the sounds of sandals clomping along a stone-covered alleyway. “Prepare for another attack, men.” Moments later the two soldiers returned, dragging two young boys with them. Both wide-eyed and trembling as they struggled to break free.
Bazak released the arm of the taller boy and grabbed his neck. “What’s your name?”
“My name is Eyal. You’re hurting me. Let go.”
Bazak glanced at the other youngster. “What’s your friend’s name?”
“He’s not my friend. He’s my brother. His name is Ofer.”
Bazak bent down to Eyal’s eye level before yelling, “Why did you attack us?”
“We … we didn’t attack you, sir. My brother and I took turns hurling stones, using our new slings. We didn’t aim at anything in particular. Hitting one of your men was an accident.”
“Then why did you run from us?” Bazak slammed Eyal against the nearest wall. “I should knock some sense into both of you.” Both boys trembled and began to sob. “Quit crying and answer my questions.”
Tallis stepped between Bazak and the boy, placing his hand on his soldier’s shoulder. “Ease up. You won’t get anywhere by intimidating these two.”
Bazak released his grip and backed away. “Yes, sir. I’m sorry, Tallis.”
“Good. Now, calm down and try a gentler approach.”
Eyal’s breathing began to slow as did his tears. “We didn’t realize anyone was coming down the street, sir. We didn’t hear you walking toward us.” The lad pointed toward the other side of the road. “You can see more stones lying over there.” Ofer continued to cry. “What can I say? Our aim is poor.”
Ofer screamed at the top of his lungs. “Don’t kill us. We are our father’s only sons.”
“Nobody’s going to kill you, but whoever gave you those slings ought to have them tied around their neck.”
“Our father gave them to us for excelling in our studies.”
Tallis placed his hand on Ofer’s shoulder. “Calm down. You’re going to be okay. I want you to promise me you’ll practice outside the town walls in the future. Aim up toward the cliffs.”
“Yes, sir.”
“Good. Go home now, and I don’t want to see either of you slinging rocks or anything else inside our community.”
The pair scampered off without saying another word.
“Why didn’t you take them home and speak with their father, Tallis?”
“I’ll meet with him later, Shet. I know where they live. Their father’s name is Abe. You may know him. He fishes for a living. In the meantime, I want you to take Acaph and Mered to their new quarters. They will live in the empty house on the tenth street near the lake. Bazak, I want you to gather the rest of our Conturbenium. Then you and Shet will lead everyone on a patrol of our village to familiarize our new men with Hammath. After that, use the rest of your day to relax or to complete your chores. I’ll meet with everyone at sundown. Make sure the others know we’re on duty until midnight.”
Chapter 2