As the battle unfolded it became clear that the rebellion of Flaccus came ready for violence. Verres was hoping they would have had the decency at least of appearing here unarmed, but 'SPQR' tattoos and weaponry made it clear that this was not just a politically illegal grab for the government, it was a violent one.

Verres hissed:

"SEE brothers! It is exactly as I told you, Flaccus and the optimates plan on controlling the government by the sword. SO BE IT. WE SHALL DEFEND IT WITH THE SWORD! Citizens this is either the fall of the Republic or its greatest stand against corruption! Attack Flaccus, KILL Flaccus and those who would rob Rome from the Roman people. HOLD YOUR GROUND! NO ONE LEAVES THIS FORUM!"

Verres hefted his gladius and a stool which served as a makeshift shield. Whispering a prayer to his household Lares and to Mens that little Marcus and his many friends should be successful, he supported his remaining followers and assisted with filling the gaps in the line.

If only more Romans still cared about the Republic, things like this would never come to pass. But now it has happened again: one man controls the government of Rome as when Sulla the murderer took power. Fitting that the direct decendants of such a man should be the ones to precipitate it: Valerius Flaccus and Faustus. Only the holy lightining of Jove himself could burn out this cancer.

The Republic is dead.