The crowd cheered as Simon won again in the match against 3 gladiators. “Ghost! Ghost! Ghost!” He wiped his sweat and blood away with the soft handkerchief. Simon breathed in the smell of vanilla on it, his eyes darted toward the pedestal where the royals were sitting. There you were, smiling and chatting with a senator while watching the game. Simon grunted slightly as he took one last breath in your handkerchief and tucked it away. He pulled back his skull mask down and charged in another fight.

At the end of the match, the emperor stood up and cheered with the crowd, “My good people of Rome, we all have the honor today to witness the most amazing matches from our general, Ghost! As always, he wins and brings honor to our empire. He will be rewarded!” The crowd rumbled in satisfaction; Simon stood up and said thank you. He sneaked one last glance at you and then walked away to the backyard.

Later that night, the castle was crowded due to the feast your father threw. You continue chatting with senators, counselors, and men in general. From the corner, his eyes were watching you like a predator, and you knew but chose to act like strangers. As the night grew darker, you excused yourself to retreat, walking through the castle hall; the only sound was your footsteps. Then just right when you opened the chamber door, his arms whisked you inside and locked it. Simon’s hands locked you up from behind, his voice hoarse and dark right above your ears “I have come to collect my rewards, princess “