EPISODE 5: THE SAXONS ## CHAPTER 1: RUMORS FROM THE EAST The trader came staggering through the eastern gate at dawn. His wagon was burned, his clothes torn, his face a mask of terror. Marcus was summoned from his morning meal to hear the report. "Saxons," the man gasped. "Hundreds of them. Landing on the eastern coast. Burning everything." "Where exactly?" "Started at the river mouth. Spread inland. I barely escaped with my life." The trader clutched Marcus's arm. "They're not raiders anymore, Centurion. They're settlers. Bringing families. They mean to stay." Marcus felt a cold knot form in his stomach. Saxons. The sea wolves from across the German Ocean. Britain had dealt with their raids for generations, but settlers were different. Settlers meant conquest. "Quintus. Send scouts east. I want to know numbers, positions, direction of advance." "Yes, Centurion." The optio paused. "What about the alliance?" "We call a council. If the Saxons threaten us, they threaten everyone." --- ## CHAPTER 2: THE COUNCIL OF WAR The response surprised even Marcus. They gathered in the principia—Romans, Brigantes, Picts, representatives from a dozen smaller communities. The news had spread fast. Everyone understood the implications. "The Saxons don't distinguish between Pict and Roman," Drest said, his voice carrying through the chamber. "They see all Britons as prey." "Then we must...