(OOC APPOLOGIES FOR NOT POSTING IN FOREVER. ALL THAT IS ABOUT TO CHANGE. . . )

In spite of my distate for Volumnia, in spite of my apparent bad humor, I was really in rather high spirits. I had nerves, certainly. But I was filled with exhilaration at the thought of action, finally action, against Caesar, the man I detested.

I couldn't help grinning at Brutus, laughing a little as I knocked back some wine. "Well, my friend? Are you enjoying the party?"

Brutus frowned a little and did not immediately answer. The prospect of action, finally action, clearly did not kindle his enthusiasm nearly as much as it did mine. He was worried about being torn between loyalties, shaming the family name by taking either part in the battle for the freedom of Rome. Somewhere deep down, I think he was even concerned with doing the right thing. What a strangely moral man he is, I thought with a pang and a sigh of frustration. Always, he stood aloof from what I wanted.

"I confess, the company makes me uncomfortable," Brutus said very quietly after a moment. I could tell that he was speaking not of our hostess (more's the pity!) but rather of Labienus, myself, and the other senators. He didn't like pressure. In such a circumstance he was inclined to withdraw into his shell. That was bad. But he was also off-balance, which was to my advantage,

"It's the best company in Rome, Brutus," I said, also in an undertone. "Dregs that some of us may be, there are also noble men here, and all of us have the Republic's interest at heart. If I am not sorely mistaken." I raised an eyebrow at him. "Will you deign to drink to that?"

Eyes troubled, he hesitated for a moment, then mumbled assent. We toasted in momentary grim accord. I felt a wild thrill go up my spine. Something, I was sure, had to move forward tonight.