Chapter 47: Marriage, and Departure
Chapter 47: Marriage, and Departure
There was no need for Marcus to seek permission from his father, Crassus, who had complete trust in his son’s judgment.
“Marriage to Caesar’s daughter? I have no objections. She’s known to be smart and beautiful. If you believe this is the right course of action, then it must be.”
His mother, Theutoria, also supported the decision.
Julia was already well-regarded among the upper-class women of the nobility. Although her family wasn’t wealthy, it had a prestigious lineage dating back to the early Roman monarchy.
There was no reason to refuse the match.
Crassus was pleased with the arrangement. His eldest son, the leader of the Optimates, was marrying the daughter of Caesar, a prominent figure of the Populares. This union clearly shifted the balance of power in favor of Crassus.
The news of the marriage led to praise for Crassus from the senators of the old faction, who saw it as a strategic move to control Caesar.
The citizens also saw the marriage as a hopeful sign of reconciliation between the nobility and populism, raising their hopes for peace in the often tumultuous Roman political landscape.
Marcus received generous blessings from everyone around him. His younger brother, Publius, arranged for the finest musicians to play at the homecoming of his bride.
“I’m overwhelmed with emotion to see you finally getting married,” said Septimus, who had watched over Marcus since his birth, with tears in his eyes.
Seline congratulated Marcus with her finest cooking, more exquisite than ever before.
Spartacus not only offered his congratulations but also gave practical advice.
“Sir, I can’t advise you on everything, but remember this: be faithful to your duties as a husband. That will naturally foster a harmonious family atmosphere.”
“I’m confident I won’t embarrass myself,” Marcus replied.
Danae, who had been listening quietly, smiled warmly and gave Marcus her heartfelt blessing. She was the first to offer her sincere congratulations.
Though Spartacus was known for his sternness, he wasn’t without sensitivity. He looked around at everyone’s faces, smiled softly, and whispered, “But you should still focus on strengthening your lower body. After all, true strength comes from there.”
Marcus took Spartacus’s advice to heart and resolved to dedicate himself to lower body training.
The wedding ceremony was as magnificent as anticipated, rivaling any noble family’s celebration in Rome. Crassus, ever the devoted father, made sure Marcus’s wedding was a national event. Caesar also provided a substantial dowry, adding to the grandeur of the occasion.
Of course, the dowry came from Marcus’s own funds, a common practice with Caesar.
Even before the ceremony began, the Palatine Hill was bustling with activity. Many of the Crassus family's clients flocked to Rome to celebrate Marcus’s wedding, and they did not arrive empty-handed. The spacious mansion was overflowing with people and gifts.
Crassus even rented an entire insula to accommodate those who came to congratulate them. A grand feast was held, with Crassus sparing no expense. He ensured that anyone who was Roman could eat and drink well. The citizens, already troubled by recent pirate activities, reveled in the fragrant wine and sumptuous food, praising Crassus and wishing the newlyweds the best.
The city buzzed with excitement, reminiscent of a triumph day, thanks to the multi-day celebration.
Finally, the day of the wedding arrived. The ceremony began with the bride being escorted to the groom’s house.
“There she is!” someone shouted excitedly as they spotted the bride’s carriage.
The crowd was eager to cheer. The carriage, carrying Julia, moved slowly along the wide road, flanked by a festive procession. At the front, people held torches to light the way, and musicians played cheerful tunes to mark the occasion. Citizens threw nuts into the air, wishing the couple fertility and happiness, while enjoying the lively music.
When Julia’s carriage reached the top of the Palatine Hill, Marcus’s entourage was there to greet her. They carefully escorted her to Crassus’s mansion.
At last, Julia arrived at the mansion and faced her groom, Marcus. Although her face was covered by a palla, she could see Marcus clearly. This was the man she would spend her life with. While divorce was common among the upper-class Romans, Caesar had given his assurance. Marcus had promised to cherish and love her for life.
It was clear that Caesar had orchestrated the situation, but Marcus was not someone to say one thing and do another.
Despite Julia’s intelligence and maturity, she was understandably nervous about this new experience. As her heart pounded with a mix of tension and excitement, the ceremony proceeded to its final stage.
When the last procedure concluded, they were officially married. After the banquet, as most guests had departed and the sun had set, the bride’s entourage escorted Julia to the bridal chamber.
The moment had finally arrived.
Marcus approached Julia with a hint of nervousness. He lifted her palla, revealing a face that was even more tense than his own.
Once the entourage left, the room was left with just the two of them. Marcus gazed into Julia’s eyes. Though she was a bit shaky, she met his gaze without hesitation.
“Now that we are spending this night together, we are bound for life. If there’s anything you want from me as your husband, please tell me now.”
Julia took a moment to gather her thoughts before responding.
“First of all, I’d like you to speak more casually with me. And, to be honest, I don’t want to be seen as a jealous woman, so I don’t mind if you have a personal life. But there is one thing I’d like you to promise: don’t be like my father.”
“I don’t think I have that much capability anyway… But I promise.”
“And if you spend time with other women or slaves, please make sure to spend as much time with me as well. I want you to promise me that.”
Marcus understood the underlying concern. Julia had likely picked up on Danae’s presence and the possibility of his relations with others. In Roman society, it was common for the upper class to have relationships outside of marriage. Many noble families had separate women solely for physical relations, and it was equally common for women to be unfaithful.
Caesar’s numerous affairs were a product of this social norm. Otherwise, he might have faced serious repercussions from aggrieved husbands.
Marcus had no intention of leading such a reckless life, except for Danae, who was an exception. He couldn’t refuse Julia’s request.
“I promise. But I also have one request of you.”
“Yes, I am your wife now, so I will gladly listen.”
“You are now part of our family. While you are Julius Caesar’s daughter, you are also Marcus Crassus’ wife. I want you to remember this clearly. I’m not asking you to act against your father, but I do ask that you align your priorities with me. I will do my best for you and ensure that you will not be ashamed of this request.”
“I understand. I swear to Juno that I will fulfill my duties as a wife.”
They agreed to respect each other, and the atmosphere between the young couple grew warmer. Marcus placed his hand on Julia’s body, and she was no longer trembling with nervousness.
As Marcus’ lips approached hers, Julia closed her eyes slightly. When his soft kiss touched her lips, her calm heart began to race again. They shared a deep kiss, marking an unforgettable first night of their marriage.
The honeymoon was perfect. Julia was an exemplary wife—wise, understanding, and supportive. Her presence made Marcus more efficient in various matters. She managed the guests and handled any issues with grace.
From Julia’s perspective, Marcus was an ideal husband. He kept his promises, paying careful attention to her comfort and maintaining both physical and emotional closeness.
However, their happy married life had to pause as preparations for the pirate suppression operation concluded. The time to depart had arrived.
Marcus, set to join the campaign as Pompey’s lieutenant, took only Spartacus with him. He was confident in Pompey’s ability to handle the pirate suppression, seeing it as an opportunity for Pompey’s glory. What concerned him more was the situation afterward.
Before leaving, Marcus summoned Septimus and gave him a secret order.
“Send Tadius to establish a base in the east, starting with Bithynia.”
“Are you planning to trade in the east?” Septimus asked.
“On the surface, yes. But the key is to use it as a foothold to influence the east. Spare no expense in securing the market and recruiting local merchants, especially those who trade with Parthia. That’s our top priority.”
Septimus furrowed his brow. “Parthia? Expanding influence there is challenging. Parthia still holds significant power compared to other eastern nations.”
“That’s precisely why we need to act now. Focus on merchants who trade frequently with Parthia, particularly local Parthian merchants. Building connections with Parthian nobles is crucial. Invest generously—shower them with gifts. I’ll likely go to Bithynia myself in a few months and will provide more details then.”
“Really? I thought you were joining Pompey for the pirate suppression. Why are you heading to Bithynia? Do you think the pirates will be defeated so soon?”
Their voices naturally lowered. Marcus nodded slightly.
“It’s likely. So tell Tadius to act quickly. By the time I arrive in Bithynia, I want the basic preparations completed.”
“I’ll inform him right away.”
“Oh, and make sure to look after Julia. I’ve instructed everyone at the house, but I’ll feel more reassured if you check in on her yourself.”
“I understand. You’re so concerned about your wife that Julia must feel very cared for.”
Marcus accepted Septimus’ praise with a faint smile. His attentiveness to Julia was due to his concern that she might be pregnant.
In the original history, Julia died during childbirth. Her death had caused a rapid deterioration in the relationship between Caesar and Pompey, eventually leading to civil war. If she had survived, history might have taken a very different path.
The timing and circumstances were different now, but Marcus believed in being cautious. He decided to also speak with Danae.
Danae was busy with her profitable business targeting noblewomen, benefiting from the rising awareness about the dangers of lead in cosmetics. Surprisingly, she and Julia had become good friends. Danae's higher education and polished manners made her a valued conversation partner for Julia.
“Danae, you’re better suited to take care of Julia than those dull men. Since you get along well, please keep a close eye on her.”
“Certainly. Julia is already a great help with my business, and we have a lot of interactions. I’ll make sure to take good care of her.”
“Thank you.”
Marcus bid farewell to Julia several times before leaving. She kissed his cheek and smiled brightly.
“Don’t worry and come back safely. I should be the one telling you to take care of yourself. Your concern for me makes me feel a bit guilty.”
Julia also addressed Spartacus, who would remain by Marcus' side.
“Take care of him and protect him well.”
“Of course. As always, nothing will happen to him.”
With their family’s farewell, Marcus and Spartacus departed the mansion.
The army camp was naturally located near the sea due to the large-scale naval operation.
Pompey’s camp was the largest Marcus had ever seen. The sight of hundreds of warships lined up in rows was awe-inspiring.
Upon entering the commander’s tent, Marcus was warmly welcomed by Pompey.
“Oh, you’re here! I heard you were enjoying your happy married life. I hope you’re not overexerting yourself by joining the war.”
“I’m honored to gain experience under your command. Besides, it’s a fight for Rome’s stability, so my wife fully supports my decision.”
“Indeed, I met her last time, and she seemed like a wonderful woman. You made a good choice.”
It felt peculiar to hear Pompey praise Julia, given that he would have been her husband in the original history. Pompey, unaware of Marcus’s thoughts, laughed heartily and then summoned the officers.
The tent was soon filled with legion commanders and centurions from the twenty legions. The curtain was about to rise on the historic pirate suppression campaign.
Pompey spread a massive map on the table and began speaking with confidence.
“Before I explain the plan, let me make one thing clear.”
Everyone in the tent awaited Pompey’s words with anticipation.
Pompey took a deliberate breath and scanned the room with a confident smile.
“I intend to eliminate these pirates within a year. Keep that in mind as you listen to the plan.”
A gasp erupted from one of the legion commanders, who quickly covered his mouth, though no one reprimanded him. Pompey’s declaration was that shocking.
The pirates scattered across the Mediterranean numbered in the tens of thousands, with their ships easily exceeding a thousand. Pompey’s statement implied he would not take even a year to eradicate them all, a bold and unexpected claim that left all the legion commanders and centurions wide-eyed.