They are outnumbered, but they never lose heart ... Rome, in the year 255. Rome's enemies are advancing from all sides to annex parts of the stricken world empire. Sassanid ruler Shapur and his mighty army also stand before Arete, the easternmost bulwark of the empire. To defend the fortress, Emperor Valerian sends his tribune Ballista. Ballista is a Teuton, but has long been in the service of Rome. Undaunted and loyal, he follows his mission, although he knows how hopeless the situation is, for he has only a few warriors at his disposal ... Captivating, richly detailed, brilliant - Marcus Clodius Ballista, the Germanic-born warrior of Rome, in his first mission.