Alexander and the Gladiators May 51 BC: Gaius Volcatius Tullus is planning gladiatorial games as part of his campaign for the position of Aedile and has commissioned Alexander, a free man, to organize them for several weeks. In his efforts, Alexander also meets two young wealthy merchants from Gaul. A fatal discovery occurs at their inn, and soon Alexander finds himself at the center of dramatic events that also pique C.V.T.'s interest. Assassination in Pompeii Summer 51 BC: An alarming message comes from the south of the peninsula: a steward of the Volcatic estates in Campania has been brutally murdered. C.V.T. immediately sets off for Pompeii to investigate the background of the crime. In the first few days, a surprising and dangerous turn of events occurs, and C.V.T. finds himself in opposition to a mysterious enemy.