Watch Your Back

Watch Your Back

By William V Weeks

Smashwords Edition

Copyright 2022

This ebook is for your personal for your own enjoyment only. You may not re-sell or give this book away to other people. Please buy an additional copy for each recipient to share this book with another individual. If you’re reading this book and did not buy it, please return to Smashwords.com and buy your own copy. Thank you for respecting the author’s work.

This book is fiction, and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, places, events, or locales is coincidental. The characters are productions of the author’s imagination and are used fictitiously.

Chapter 1

Tallis stepped from the shadows and peered north, uncertain what he wanted to see or hear. A full moon provided enough light for the young Decanus to see the south wall of Herod’s new capital city, Tiberias. A blast of frigid air blew dust into his eyes. I hate the month of Tevet.

Seconds later, Tallis reached for his sword at the sound of approaching footsteps. As he spun around, a familiar voice filled the air. Relax, sir. It’s me.

You scared me to death, Bazak. Why are you here?

We both know why you’re here. I came to check on you.

I’m fine.

Are you sure? It’s been three years since your father died, and he’s not coming back. Do you still hear his voice?

Tallis nodded. I still hear his voice, calling my name, and His body shook as he said, I wasn’t there to help him the night he died.

There was nothing you could do, my friend. The zealots attacked him once he stepped through the south gate and headed to Hammath, and his attackers would be gone long before you arrived. You didn’t fail your father.

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, and Tallis led a Conturbenium of eight soldiers. Their assignment: protect the people living in town and those traveling from Tiberias to the south end of the lake.

Both soldiers turned and walked toward the marketplace. There’s something I don’t understand, Bazak. Why did my father walk home alone in the middle of the night? Every soldier knows we don’t work alone. We always work in pairs or larger teams.

Bazak shrugged, Who knows, Tallis. The area’s been trouble-free for months. Perhaps your Coridan didn’t feel threatened.

As they approached the well, three soldiers came into view as they waited for their colleagues. Good morning, everyone, Tallis said. The others nodded before Shet spoke.

Sir, you look terrible.

The comment caught Tallis by surprise. I’m fine. Why?

Your eyes, Tallis. They’re red and watery.

I said I’m okay.

So, why the big sigh, sir?

Enough talk. Here come the others. It’s time to leave. Bazak and Shet will join me this morning. The rest of you will remain on duty in Hammath.

As the three soldiers began their trek to Tiberias, Tallis crossed the road and handed a loaf of bread and his figs to an old man leaning against a building. Take these, friend. It looks like you could use something to eat this morning.

As the Decanus turned back toward the others, a well-dressed young man appeared from the shadows and bumped into Tallis before sprinting out Hammath’s north gate.

Stop! Shet commanded, but the runner didn’t bother to slow his pace or look back as he sprinted away.

Do you want me to chase him, sir?

Don’t bother, Bazak. He has too large a lead. Do you know his name?

His name is Dan.

On their march north, Tallis wondered why a young fellow dressed in fancy clothes would bother running to Tiberias. What’s the rush? Nobody chased him.

Twenty minutes later, the soldiers entered Tiberias through the south gate and continued to the fortress near the marketplace in the city’s center. Herod’s capital 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, he’d marvel at its magnificence and the view of the lake bearing his name.

With the construction of Tiberias, Hammath lost its charm from centuries past, and the ancient city plummeted into decay. The builders of Hammath used basalt stones for everything. Tallis hated the color gray and vowed to paint his front door a bright color one day.

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 nearest the conference room door. Their superior officer joined them before Tallis greeted 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 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 the attention to the region from Capernaum south to Hammath. Kaleb paused and looked at Tallis. Nikolaos gave me specific orders to prevent any insurrections 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. Today’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 going home at sunset.

Tallis and his colleagues began to grumble amongst themselves over this 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 to protect ourselves. When do we eat or take a break? I hope one of my colleagues says something. At least they have ten soldiers in their Conturbeniums.

Kaleb focused his attention on Tallis as if waiting for his young Decanus to respond. I don’t know when these rumored attacks will occur, but your assignment is to remain vigilant and prevent assaults in your assigned territories. This is Nikolaos’s decree to everyone.

The Conturbenium leaders continued to grumble amongst themselves. Tallis thought the directive placed an impossible burden on him and his soldiers. Their Centurion’s voice silenced the room. You have your orders. It’s not your place to question senior officers. Go. 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 and frustrated. 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 soldiers, either, and I’m short two men now. His colleagues lowered their eyes as Tallis spoke.

Kaleb stared at his Decanus, fists clenched, and stepped toward Tallis as he sat down. I realize you’re short-handed. I wish I had additional troops available to give everyone, but Nikolaos didn’t provide me with more information than I shared with you. Does anyone else have a question? Good. Go back to your regions.

The soldiers stood and headed toward the door as Kaleb spoke and pointed to the nearest stool. Tallis, don’t leave.

Following his Centurion’s directive, 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 gathered his thoughts. Kaleb seldom spoke in a soft, caring voice to anyone. I’m frustrated, sir. I find your orders impossible to follow. We 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. Tallis placed his hands in his lap when his arms began to twitch, hoping his Superior wouldn’t notice.

There is more going on, 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 stressed. Talk to me.

Kaleb’s words stunned Tallis. How does he know what I’m feeling? Bazak noticed the same thing before we left Hammath. I miss my father, sir. He died three years ago last night, and I remember 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 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 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 been my best Decanus. I’m 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 this assignment, and today, I’m 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. I apologize for the delay. I know you requested two more men months ago.

Do I thank him or not? Do they have the skills to fight if the Zealots attack?

Both soldiers completed basic training. In fact, Nikolaos assigned the pair to your team. I’ve been pressuring him to increase the size of your squad.

Tallis looked at his Centurion. 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, sir, but my men are all Jewish. The Zealots causing the 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, sir, but Jews make up a small percentage of the population in Galilee, and most hate Herod.

What are you implying, young man? Kaleb stood, stepped into the hallway, looked both directions, re-entered the room, and closed the door. You never know who’s listening, and this discussion cannot leave the room.

I know you’ve heard rumors, sir. Recently, 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 your soldiers face such a situation, but I doubt your father’s soldiers helped the Zealots who murdered him. His men loved Coridan. I did too. I trust all our troops will honor their oath and perform their duties with distinction. Kaleb paused, leaned forward, and whispered. We try to enlist soldiers with previous military experience and from different countries. Finding qualified candidates is next to impossible. Eventually, Herod will need to take anyone who shows an interest in serving. They can join the Romans if they don’t like working for the Tetrarch. Kaleb paused and sighed. I don’t want you discussing our conversation with anyone, Tallis. We’d both be in trouble.

Tallis nodded and smiled. Kaleb’s words surprised him, but he was glad others feared the same thing he did. I hope I never find myself in a situation when 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 want to share something with you… I plan to retire in the next year or two, but Nikolaos, Herod, and his other confidants hold you in high esteem, despite your young age. Herod will probably 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 have Jewish blood running through their veins. 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. You have blond hair, blue eyes, an excellent physique, and superior height. This allows you to view your surroundings in crowded situations and helps you maintain order when troubles arise. Count your blessings, Tallis, but remember that your troops must step up and control the situation if a conflict arises. Failure to do your job may jeopardize your future in the Army. No promotion, demotion, or termination 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 attention to him. How do I respond to his comments? I’m pleased and honored. Kaleb thinks I’ll receive a promotion, but I worry 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 them. 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 soldiers 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 duties 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. His Conturbenium faced an impossible task. How do I discover how or where these rumored assaults will occur so I can station my men in positions to prevent 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 at 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 stone 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 soldiers returned, dragging two young boys. Both were wide-eyed and trembling as they struggled to break free.

Bazak released the arm of the tallest boy and grabbed the lad’s 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 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? 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 Eyal, placing his hand on his soldier’s shoulder. Ease up. You won’t get anywhere by intimidating these two. They meant no harm.

Bazak released his grip and backed away. Yes, sir. I’m sorry, Tallis.

Good. Now, relax, 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 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 should 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. Abe is their father and fishes the lake for a living. In the meantime, 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. Then use the rest of your day to relax or to complete your chores. I’ll meet everyone at sundown. Make sure the others know we’re on duty until midnight.

Chapter 2

Working from sunrise to sunset every day takes a toll on a person’s mind and body. Add six hours to the workday, and life becomes a struggle. By sundown, our warm afternoon had transformed into a turbulent evening. Storm clouds raced down from the north, flowing over the hills and lake as rain poured down like someone dumped a bucket of water over your head. Thunder and lightning hurt your ears and lit the sky. Gusts of wind, powerful enough to knock a person off balance, might send anyone venturing outside to the cobblestones, and the first frost of the year may arrive by morning.

Tallis spent most of the shift working and acquainting himself with Acaph and Mered, so he assigned the pair to protect the north gate. At this stage of their career, the Decanus needed to provide guidance and direction, and they must earn his trust. An hour into the first watch, Tallis gave the recruits specific instructions. I’m going to check on your colleagues stationed throughout the village. Stop anyone not having appropriate business in town from entering. If you need help, sound the alarm by blowing your horn. In the meantime, keep your ears and eyes open, and avoid the weather by standing beneath this ledge. Both men nodded before Tallis turned and headed down Hammath’s main road toward the south gate.

The frigid wind pushed the Decanus along the road, cape flapping while Tallis struggled to control his outer garment and shield. I hate working in blustery weather. With luck, the night would pass without incident, making everyone’s job easier. I hope this storm ushers in the rainy season. It’s well overdue this year.

Thirty minutes later, Tallis returned to find Mered and Acaph shivering and rocking back and forth, trying to keep warm under the arch of the north gate. Tallis, how long do you expect us to stand here like two wet rats? We’re freezing to death, and we have seen no one since coming on duty at sundown?

Tallis took a quick step toward Acaph as the man’s eyes opened wide. How dare you say something so ridiculous to me? It’s not your place to question my orders. You know your assignment. Do your job without complaining. I talk. You listen and follow directions, soldier.

Acaph stepped back, trying to increase the distance between him and his Decanus, but he lost his balance and bumped into the wall. Tallis grabbed the soldier and shoved him back against the bricks. "Your attitude is less than impressive, mister. Why did you decide to join the army? For the money? Acaph didn’t respond. Mered stood nearby with a sheepish grin on his face, attempting to avoid Tallis’s anger.

As the night dragged on, the storm intensified, limiting the vision of anyone brave enough to venture outside. Tallis checked on his other soldiers a second time near the end of the first watch. Before leaving the north gate, he reminded his two men to sound the alarm if they needed help. Walking became harder as the wind kept shifting directions, blowing sand and dust into his eyes. Controlling his cape became impossible as he headed toward the lake. At least the streets remained empty. In the distance, he saw Bazak standing near the bathhouses, next to the guard tower at the east end of the north wall.

All is well, Tallis.

I hope everything remains quiet in the other parts of our village. Try to keep dry, Bazak. This storm won’t let up soon. Remember to patrol along the entire lake throughout your shift. I’ll check back with you before the second watch ends.

With the town secured, Tallis returned to the north gate to check on his newest team members. He overheard the pair chatting well before reaching their location as he approached their position. You two need to keep your talking down. The wind carries your voices along the road. If I could hear you, so could anyone wandering the streets tonight. Remain vigilant and quit gabbing. People don’t need to know we’re on patrol this evening.

Mered wiped the rain from his eyes. Sorry, sir, but people don’t go outside on nights like this.

You cannot say that for certain. Besides, inclement weather isn’t an excuse to shirk your duties or give away your position. Someone could slip up behind you two and slit your throats. Remember, nobody forced you to join the army. You choose this profession. Focus on doing your job and not on each other. Tallis turned and walked across the road. Where did they get these guys? Kaleb mentioned Nikolaos handpicked them. Why?

After standing in the rain with Acaph and Mered, Tallis checked on his other troops again. Stay alert while I’m gone. You can hide in the alley where those two boys ran this afternoon. Or find a spot where you can get out of the rain and see the gate. Don’t shirk your duties and keep your voices down. Do you understand what I’m saying? The pair nodded. You know your assignment. Make me proud. Mered and Acaph looked at each other, rolling their eyes. Tallis couldn’t complain to Kaleb, or he’d find his Conturbenium understaffed again.

Tal stepped into view as Tallis approached his position at the south gate. No one has entered or departed since we came on duty, sir.

I think the information Kaleb shared with me this morning is more than speculation. If the night remains trouble-free, we’ll all go home at midnight. We can use the rest. If you need me, I’ll be at the north gate after I complete my rounds.

When Tallis returned, the winds had ceased, and the storm was only a memory. The moon’s full face began to appear through the lingering clouds and reflected off the lake’s glassy surface, making the soldiers visible to anyone venturing outside. The Decanus also noted the lack of enthusiasm on the faces of Acaph and Mered as Abigail’s warning rushed back into his mind. Can I trust these two? Their attitude remained less than impressive.

An hour later, Tallis patrolled the village streets one last time. He excused himself after complimenting Mered and Acaph for doing their jobs well. Walking down the main road, the Decanus turned left at the fifth street, heading toward the lake. As he neared the water, he heard footsteps in the distance behind him and realized they came from several people running. The sounds echoed along the street and off the walls of houses lining the roads, making it difficult to determine which direction the sounds came from. Turning around, Tallis ran back toward the main road as a blast from a horn ripped through the night, followed by another alarm sounding seconds later. Tallis broke into a sprint. Turning the corner, the Decanus pushed himself to run faster, and the gap between him and the runners began to close. The lead runner picked up his