Ave, Quirites! Welcome to ancient Rome. This 2-season, 22-episode show follows Caesar and his entourage for a few months before his inevitable assassination by Roman senators as they increasingly feared him becoming a king (spoilers, I guess). Each episode is one hour long and features plenty of details worth examining with a magnifying glass.
Rome is in turmoil. Common people clash with nobility, represented respectively by Gaius Julius Caesar and Gnaeus Pompey Magnus. Initially considered a more respectable man, Pompey has slowly fallen out of favor with Romans, who took a liking to Caesar's conquests in Gaul (today's France). Caesar would want to bridge the divide but the nobility loathes even the most remote possibility that he might make himself a king.
Caesar's 13th legion fights in Gaul. Titus Pullo is a brave but reckless soldier who disobeys orders and punches his superior, Lucius Vorenus, landing him a lashing and jail time. Vercingetorix, chieftain of Arverni, kneels in front of Caesar and kisses the golden standard to show obedience. Soldiers sack the city of Alesia.
Caesar receives news from Pompey, who tells him his wife, Caesar's daughter, Julia, has died during childbirth (the child is stillborn). With that, their familial bond is broken and there's nothing to hold them together. We're introduced to Octavian, Caesar's great-nephew (Caesar is the brother of Octavian's maternal grandmother). Octavian is tasked by Atia, his mother, with delivering a noble white horse that appeared on the city market to Caesar in Gaul on his own.
In the Senate, Pompey apparently defends Caesar from accusations of leading an illegal war. Cato the Younger is the one haranguing Caesar and the only one wearing a black toga, commonly reserved for those who mourn the death of a loved one. For Cato, a recalcitrant conservative, Caesar's acts represent the death of the Roman Republic. Pompey vetoes Cato's motion to charge Caesar with treason (click the image for a 266 KB, 1891x862px version).
Scipio presents Pompey with his daughter, Cornelia, since Julia died. Wow, Romans moved fast. He is watching a lascivious stage show. Cato is also there, dripping poison in Pompey's ear regarding Caesar. Pompey angrily refuses all help but says he doesn't wish to renounce Caesar.
Octavian is assembling his talisman before the journey (note the dice). His sister, Octavia, drops in her ring and consoles him. Pompey learns that the white horse was snatched from under his nose and sends his masseur to Gaul with a mission. In Gaul, Caesar's camp is snuck into by blue-skinned thieves, who steal the golden eagle. Brutus arrives to Caesar's camp and learns about the stolen standard. Marcus Antonius also arrives and acts like a douchebag.
Octavian's party is ambushed by brigands, who kill his guards and capture him. Marcus Antonius tasks Lucius Vorenus with finding the golden eagle by giving him a quarter talent of gold, which should be 8kg but in the show is a mere pouch of gold coins. Lucius Vorenus crucifies barbarians until one of them speaks. The Blue Spaniards took it and rode to the Cadurci lands. Lucius Vorenus then enlists the help of Titus Pullo, riding out together.
Servilia, Brutus' mother and Caesar's mistress, receives a letter from him through Brutus. She wistfully smiles at his words. Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo are exchanging small talk as they're realizing there's no chance to find the golden standard. Pompey asks Brutus to give an assessment of Caesar's disposition; gloomy and dreary, with a chance of mutiny. Pompey can barely contain his excitement.
Atia is pimping out her daughter, Octavia, to Pompey. The problem is, Octavia is already married to Glabius. Well, that's a quick divorce. Then a dab of arsenic on Octavia's face to pretty her up and off in front of Pompey she goes. Pompey is indifferent to Octavia and suggests waiting the next month before marrying her. Atia suggests they get dirty on the spot (click the image for a 96 KB, 1276x993px version).
Lucius and Titus are having a barbecue. They fall asleep and some kids steal their horses. Titus, you tit! Suddenly, they encounter bandits that took Octavian. They destroy them and free Octavian, who explains Caesar's plan – he lost the eagle on purpose to lure Pompey into thinking he's weak and attacking him first. Inside a cart dragged by the bandits they discover – the golden eagle carried by the masseur.
Pompey receives masseur's head and Caesar's note saying that he'll pay him a visit in person. Anyway, Pompey gets married to (drumroll) Cornelia! Atia lashes out at Octavia. Girls, let this be a lesson to you – don't let your moms get involved in your love affairs. Caesar is moving closer to Rome with his 13th legion. Behind them, their abandoned camp burns so nobody else can use it. What a formidable war machinery it was.
Caesar gets reports that men are deserting his legion but thinks none of it. Meanwhile, Marcus Antonius is ravaging a shepherd girl. He's being put up for People's Tribune, with Caesar's scribe, Strabo, sent to look after him. Cato and Pompey aren't worried about it. Glabius visits Octavia but Atia threatens to sic the dogs at him. Octavia cries her eyes out and Atia says, "Nothing a good leeching won't cure." Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo bring Octavian back to Atia. Octavian wants them to eat with the family but Atia hesitates.
Politics and alcohol are a bad mix today and they were a bad mix 2,000 years ago. Lucius Vorenus, a strict believer in the Republic, abhors the idea that Caesar would ever march his army to Rome; Titus Pullo thinks Caesar should bring elephants too. Atia challenges Lucius Vorenus' ideas of supporting the idea of Republic, since it means supporting people like Cato, who pretend to be for the Republic but are for the nobility. Octavian mentions that rumors in Rome state Caesar would try to make himself a king, but Lucius Vorenus can't fathom it. Titus Pullo drops a quip and Lucius Vorenus pulls his superior rank, excusing them.
Lucius Vorenus is finally going back home; it's squalor but a familiar face is there, his wife, Niobe. She's holding a baby. Whose is it? Answer him, whore! You're a granddaddy, Lucius. "But, my daughter is 13-14..." He's finally meeting his daughters but they are fearful and keep a distance. Niobe wants some alone time with Lucius Vorenus, who is finally eating a homemade meal. Their conversation is awkward and stilted but Niobe does break a smile upon hearing Lucius Vorenus will deliver at least 10,000 denarii from selling slaves. Meanwhile, Titus Pullo is spending his spoils on plowing junior customer relation managers at a brothel.
Cicero, Pompey and Cato visit Atia's home. Marcus Antonius joins them almost immediately and starts salivating over Atia's hand. Cato scolds him for wearing red, the colors of a soldier; Marcus Antonius agrees and amplifies. Marcus Antonius tells them that he is authorized to deliver a compromise to avoid slaughter. Octavian eavesdrops.
Caesar wants to command a province after his term ends, preferably Illyria (Balkans), to get legal immunity from prosecution for treason. Cato starts foaming at the mouth. Pompey is enraged with the terms. Marcus Antonius ends the discussion with a smirk. Pompey says to Cicero it's a bluff but he replies that desperate men are the most dangerous.
Titus Pullo enters a tavern and wants to gamble. Lucius Vorenus is plowing Niobe while their grandkid is wailing. Meanwhile, Marcus Antonius is plowing Atia while Octavia listens to them. Strabo reports to Caesar that Marcus Antonius was just the right amount of arrogant to enrage Pompey and Cato into making the first move. Meanwhile, Titus Pullo has lost a fortune in the tavern. He realizes the other guys are cheating and starts stabbing fools. Fire breaks out, someone bangs him on the head and he barely makes it out alive. An old lady is changing the dates on a huge public wall calendar (click the image for a 278 KB, 1920x1080px version).
Titus Pullo stumbles into Lucius Vorenus' home. Niobe runs to get a doctor, who performs surgery on his skull. Of course, the entire suburb is there to watch. The doctor inserts a metal plate inside his skull and uses a small hammer to bang it into place. Still better than modern American healthcare. Niobe questions Lucius Vorenus but he puts her in her place. He goes out to the slave market. His slaves haven't been moved yet; they're too skinny.
Pompey and Cicero are watching gladiators practice. The latter winces and flinches at every hit. Pompey says Scipio will put an ultimatum to Caesar, asking him to return to trial else be considered enemy of the state, with Cicero asked to support the ultimatum. Marcus Antonius is expected to use Tribune's veto to take the wind out of the ultimatum but the idea is to send a message to Caesar that he has no friends left. Cicero hesitates – that's a declaration of war against Caesar! Pompey threatens picking up his legions and moving to Spain, leaving everyone else to Caesar's mercy.
Lucius Vorenus meets his son in law and starts shouting. Typical dad. Niobe pleads for the two. The boy, Crito, is scared but stands firm. Lucius Vorenus allows the marriage through gritted teeth. Niobe scolds him for not being happy. He wanted his daughter to marry up, not got tied to some kid who drives cattle. Niobe calls him a brute and he is on the verge of smacking her but holds back. Titus Pullo is listening.
In the Senate, Scipio proposes the ultimatum, as laid out by Pompey. One third of the Senate stands up and, after a pause, Cicero stands up too and joins Pompey, with his entire section joining them. Marcus Antonius was meant to veto the motion but a brawl breaks out and the proposal is carried forward. Pompey can't believe what's happening.
Cicero asks the Senate leader to declare the prior session incorrectly ended, reconvene the session and let Marcus Antonius use his veto. Pompey orders his men not to harm or hinder Marcus Antonius in any way, otherwise he won't be able to veto the motion, which will start a civil war. Strabo delivers good news to Marcus Antonius, who expects to be stopped by Pompey, and orders Lucius Vorenus to rally every man he can find. Titus Pullo is babysitting with cheerful Roman wartime nursery rhymes. Niobe complains to Titus Pullo of Lucius Vorenus just as he enters the home and gets to hear it. Titus Pullo covers for him but she doesn't believe a word. Niobe and Lucius Vorenus have another awkward conversation where they're turned away from one another.
The men are to be rallied at Atia's estate. Atia tries to nudge Octavia into entertaining Marcus Antonius, but she is having none of it and fires back. Atia has heard it a million times, so Octavia adds the cringe. Marcus Antonius is entertained. Octavian would rather be someplace else.
Pompey's men are gathered at the Forum in a show of strength but are ordered not to attack anyone. Marcus Antonius comes in with his crew. Titus Pullo spots a cheater from the tavern, who charges at him with a knife. A bloody brawl breaks out. Pompey is outraged as the mob starts slaying one another. Lucius Vorenus is wounded and dragged away.
Pompey delivers the news to Cato inside the Senate – Caesar now has no choice but to march with his men on Rome when snow melts. Caesar receives the letter with the grim news as a soldier is reading a status report; his legion's manpower is waning. Marcus Antonius and his men are right behind the letter, since they're no longer safe in Rome. Caesar is officially proclaimed the enemy of the state. Caesar feels surprised by Pompey's actions. Marcus Antonius thinks it was Cato who put him up to this.
Caesar delivers one of his epic speeches to the 13th legion – Senate's proclamation has branded them all traitors. Caesar wants to go back with a sword and the legion cheers. Caesar gives Titus Pullo 500 denarii and the legion cheers. They ride out and I cheer.
Caesar and his troops cross the Rubicon, a muddy creek. Lucius Vorenus wakes up in a carriage just in time to tell us it's the Rubicon. He loathes the idea of being a traitor. Soon after, he's resigned to his destiny of being crucified for treason. In Rome, the news of Caesar's approach spreads like wildfire. Niobe and her daughter are anxious. We get a really cute breastfeeding scene.
Atia is whipping Castor for some reason. Brutus delivers the news to Octavian. Pompey hears the news too and discusses it with Cato, who is nervous. Pompey is calm and confident: "That poor man is dead". Caesar sends out Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo to scout out the outposts and nail the proclamation of Caesar's intentions to the Senate door, if they can.
Niobe's lover comes in and makes her tear up. The child is theirs! She was a whore after all! They kiss just as her daughter comes in. Niobe pleads with her not to tell Lucius Vorenus, who is by the fire and asks Titus Pullo about how to win over the love of his wife; he is worried about his family heritage.
Atia plans a party and enlists another of her lovers, stableman Timon. He doesn't want money but a bout of plowing. Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo find Pompey's camp. Their Ubian cavalry, German allies on horseback, is ready for some action (click the image for a 422 KB, 1916x1080px version).
Pompey's legionnaires are – just kids that start fleeing when attacked. One of them reports the news to Pompey, who realizes it's not even war season. Pompey is surprised at Caesar's speed and notes his three legions are green recruits, with some Gaul veterans who are likely to join Caesar. Pompey suggests a 'tactical retreat' to the south to rally the legions. Cato jabs him with sarcasm but Pompey stands firm. Cato is right, though, since the side that holds the capital in a civil war is the one that's won. Atia is frightened of being associated with Caesar but Brutus reminds her that they shouldn't follow modern trends.
Pompey is making his tactical retreat but it's Cornelia that orders everyone around. He sends his man, Durio, to loot the city treasury. Pompey's mob is trying to break down the door to Atia's estate. Durio is betrayed and the gold stolen. Titus Pullo tries to teach Lucius Vorenus his barbaric methods of plowing women: "It's just like putting a saddle on a skittish horse." You could make an entire series with just the two discussing women. Atia issues murder/suicide orders so that the mob doesn't lay their dirty hands on them. Octavia brings Glabius to the discussion. All of a sudden, the mob has dispersed.
Niobe's neighbor, Rissa, comes to prod for information about her lover. Niobe says she wants Lucius Vorenus back. Brutus is surprised that the nobility has fled the city. He doesn't know what he and Servilia should do. Brutus decides to go with Pompey. Servilia agrees but doesn't want to leave; she hasn't seen Caesar in eight years. Octavia has snuck out, presumably to see Glabius. He plows her. Timon intercepts and kills Glabius and his men.
Niobe is cradling the child while Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus discuss the nature of stars – of course, they are simply holes in the sky hundreds of miles away. Atia sells her protection to those of Pompey's faction who stayed behind. Meanwhile, Pompey's men are marching south. Cato is fearful because Durio hasn't come back but Pompey is calm.
Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo meet the caravan with stolen gold. They ask to inspect it and a fight ensues. Germans quickly kill most of them and they move on but Titus Pullo wants to check out the wagon. Timon brings Glabius' corpse to Atia's house and Octavia sees it. Girls, do I need to say it again; don't involve your moms in your love life. Atia denies being involved with Glabius' death.
Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo put Caesar's proclamation on the Senate door. He promises no retribution against his enemies and offers total amnesty to all who ask it. Lucius Vorenus resigns but Titus Pullo tells him that he can't just leave; he does and goes to the temple to pray, meeting Niobe there. She washes his feet and he tells her she's beautiful. He tries to be honest with her and promises to change but she is speechless.
Titus Pullo goes back to the wagon and finds a girl, Eirene, roped to it. He frees her and checks the wagon – gold! Caesar enters Rome as a conqueror.
In Pompey's camp, one of the men who led the caravan is tortured by Quintus, Pompey's son. Pompey sends him to find who has the gold. Caesar enters Jupiter's temple and asks for omens and the priests agree. Caesar plans a party at Atia's place but she's jealous that Servilia was invited. Octavian is offered goat's testicles by Atia to "put oak in your penis". Octavia asks Octavian if Atia had Glabius killed and promises to kill her if she did.
Lucius Vorenus has a quiet moment with his family. He wants to become a salesman. Marcus Antonius sends for him through a midget and tells him he could be crucified for desertion. Lucius Vorenus clings on to his ideas of Republic but Marcus Antonius tells him things have changed and pleads him to come back, promising enormous bonuses, but he refuses. Marcus Antonius is furious.
Niobe is looking for omens in liver. The witch tells her the signs of her secret being safe are mixed, Niobe starts spilling the beans but shuts up just in time and walks away. The witch tells her Lucius Vorenus will be filthy rich.
Atia and Servilia are getting prettied up for the party. Servilia is doubting her beauty. Ceasar is doling out money to buy the allegiance of remaining officials. He is reminded by one of his slaves to kill and confiscate the property of wealthy people to fund his reign. Caesar promises to spare every wealthy man, to which the advisor slave, Posca, commends his ingenuity in making the confiscation sudden. Lucius Vorenus is opening his business with a party. Niobe is fretful when greeting her sister, Lyde, whose husband, Evander, is the lover we saw previously. Lyde tells her it's all right and Niobe calms down.
At Atia's party, Servilia and she exchange stilted greetings. Atia is fuming at her makeup but doesn't think such a woman could ever be Caesar's favorite. Caesar enters the party, with one of officials announcing him using fasces, an axe bound with a set of sticks (click the image for a 152 KB, 1920x1080px version).
Since carrying weapons was not allowed within the Rome's borders (aka. pomerium), carrying fasces within Rome was usually a right reserved for dictators, indicating they ruled over life and death and could order anyone executed. Caesar used his fasces-wearing officials to show to all the influential people in Rome who remained that he will not bow to the will of the Senate. Caesar will eventually get killed in Pompey's theater just outside the boundaries of Rome, meaning his assailants actually obeyed the ancient traditions.
Caesar orders them to stop bowing and exchanges pleasantries with Atia. She welcomes him home. He greets Servilia too and mentions her son, Brutus. Caesar says:
Please send Brutus my best regards and assure him he will never have reason to regret our friendship. Nor will any of you (speaking to party guests), regardless of where your allegiances may have lain in the past.
Quintus Pompey and four men are arriving to Rome and guards let them in under the pretenses of being in business of death. Lucius Vorenus entertains guests at his party but denounces Caesar. Niobe brings out the baby and entertains it with Evander. At Atia's party, Chief Augur assures Caesar the omens will be positive.
Atia prompts Octavian to speak witty, but he refuses; Octavia then goes with her emo poetry. At Lucius Vorenus' party, Niobe is worried Lyde will spill the beans. Evander is prompted to take her home but she's buzzed and threatens telling the truth. Niobe pleads with her to keep quiet. Lyde and Evander wrestle and knock over a table, breaking some pottery.
Caesar goes into the bribing game, offering Chief Augur 200,000 sesterces for his wife's birthday. Quintus Pompey is told where to find Lucius Vorenus' home. He is angry and forbids Lyde and Evander from ever coming back. Quintus Pompey enters and demands gold. Lucius Vorenus explains what happened and Titus Pullo enters with gold coins, throwing them into the air and causing mercenaries to fight for it. Titus Pullo recommends stealing the gold and running away. Lucius Vorenus orders him to take the gold back to Caesar.
At Atia's party, Caesar is told the news so he and Marcus Antonius excuse themselves. Titus Pullo delivers Quintus Pompey to Caesar, who decides to release him to his father as a token of good will. Marcus Antonius angrily protests. Pullo reveals the location of stolen gold. Atia and Servilia have a conversation about Caesar. Atia tries to goad her into acting out but she doesn't bite. Caesar says:
Legionary Pullo. You are a thief. A foolish, incompetent thief. But you have served us well in the past so we will pretend your foolishness is a species of honesty and let you go unpunished. In fact, I think we shall reward you. I don't like to quarrel with Fortune and clearly she's taken you for a pet. (to Marcus Antonius) When you find the trove, give him a 100 gold pieces.
Caesar warns Marcus Antonius not to doubt him in front of enemies and talks with Octavian, who doesn't agree with what Caesar has done. Caesar has an epileptic seizure (morbus comitialis), so he's quickly taken to a back room but a servant lady sees it. The party rages on and Octavia is blackout drunk. Caesar regains composure but his wife, Calpurnia, notices something's not right. Caesar dismisses her concerns.
Caesar wants to do business at night but Calpurnia warns it's not proper. Caesar already expects Pompey to refuse truce and must get ready to pursue him. Niobe can't fall asleep. Atia is crying and Octavian tries to console her. She says she's feeling all alone. Servilia is sleepless too but Caesar visits her and they kiss with passion.
Pompey reads the terms of Caesar's deal – legal immunity and mutual disarmament. Cicero pleads for reason. Cato and Pompey adamantly refuse. Scipio says Caesar holds the city (remember what I said about holding the capital in a civil war) and that truce would buy them time. Brutus says Caesar's been peaceful. Quintus calls them women for entertaining the idea.
Evander is begging Niobe to profess love for him when Titus Pullo arrives with Eirene and notices it. Meanwhile, Lucius Vorenus is making amends at the shrine. Niobe offers him water. Caesar is waiting for omens. Chief Augur has it all set and says the auguries are good. The news is announced to the people waiting outside, who cheer.
Tense silence in Pompey's tent as he dictates a letter to Caesar. He barely musters the willpower to say the words of accepting the terms. Scipio and Cato correct him along the way to erase any implication of respect. Cato still calls it humiliation and calls them worms. Cicero says worms can't run away as fast as they did. Pompey refuses to ever again meet Caesar. Cato is caustic once again but Pompey tells him truce gains them more time. This scene shows just how outmatched Caesar was when it came to support; Pompey has all the smartest people of Rome while Caesar has a slave and Marcus Antonius.
Caesar is hearing detailed reports of people who have abandoned Pompey. He doles out official positions in return for obedience. Caesar has a lapsus linguae and says he hopes money can buy him a throne. Atia has invited him to dinner and he refuses – again. Octavia and Octavian are painting her toenails. Atia heard the rumor from the servant woman that Octavian and Caesar were in a back room. Atia is overjoyed that such a soft young boy has deceived such a powerful man. Octavian reveals that Caesar has an illness but won't share the details.
Titus Pullo is sleeping outside Lucius Vorenus' home. Baby Lucius and her "mom" will be going to live with Crito. Niobe's voice quavers. Titus Pullo asks for some water and realizes he lost Eirene. Looking at her makes him calm. Barkeep holds her hostage because of unpaid tab and Lucius Vorenus pays the debt. In exchange, Eirene is brought to Niobe as a house slave. Niobe doesn't like her but Lucius Vorenus orders her to stay. Niobe tells Rissa that Eirene has been hired to spy on her. Rissa calms her down and tells her she'd be dead if Lucius Vorenus knew anything.
Marcus Antonius examines Pompey's concession letter – Caesar will be given everything he asked for and even more. Caesar finds it too generous but doesn't think it's a stratagem and fears appearing as a tyrant if he attacked Pompey at this moment. Posca agrees truce will appear much more favorable in the public. Marcus Antonius is impatient but Caesar tells him things aren't as simple as picking apples.
Lucius Vorenus goes to inspect the slaves but they're all dead from disease. Weaselly slave seller says there's only one boy left and Lucius Vorenus brings him back home. Girls take a liking to him and name him Rubio. Caesar and Servilia are playing dice and she asks him to never leave her again. He kisses her leg. Marcus Antonius lays with Atia and tells her Caesar is loyal to Servilia. She is shocked to hear it and paces nervously the next morning as Octavian reads. He advises her to remain calm. Octavian's "masculine arts" tutor has arrived – it's Titus Pullo. Octavian wails on Titus Pullo's shield but he effortlessly deflects his blows (click the image for a 137 KB, 1920x1080px version).
Note Titus Pullo's technique – he's hiding his sword behind the shield so the opponent can't knock it out of his hand and he can also suddenly poke and slash without the opponent being able to see whence. Romans were the first to really make slaughter an industrial-scale affair, for example, by aiming with the sword (gladius) at the inside of the enemy's leg to cut the femoral artery, causing massive blood loss and inability to stand; once the enemy falls down, Romans don't even have to stab any more but simply trample him and move on. This discipline and efficiency allowed Romans to defeat opponents that outnumbered them by a large margin.
Octavian thinks he'll be a middling swordsman but doesn't think that's enough. Titus Pullo slaps him on the shoulder but Octavian cautions him not to do that. Titus Pullo asks for advice on how to tell a man his wife might be cheating on him. Octavian instantly knows it's Lucius Vorenus and tells him suspicion alone isn't enough; facts are necessary. Speaking in error might make a man hastily act and dishonor himself. Titus Pullo is pleased with the answer and commends Octavian.
Pompey receives Caesar's letter on a beach; truce is refused. Pompey envies the slave that brought him the letter for not having to make tough decisions and drops it in the ocean. Lucius Vorenus asks for a loan from Erastes Fulmen, one of his party guests, but he refuses saying that lenders are predators. Erastes Fulmen does offer him employment; a man of Lucius Vorenus' character would make an excellent bodyguard. Titus Pullo eavesdrops on Lyde and Evander bickering and sees her slapping him.
Scoundrels are defacing buildings. Niobe is dressing Lucius Vorenus and tells him being a bodyguard is a start. Calpurnia sees the graffiti of him and Servilia in lewd poses and plebs snickering at them; she is ready for a divorce if Caesar keeps seeing her. Posca tells him a divorce now would be devastating. Erastes Fulmen takes Lucius Vorenus to the slums to meet Tanjit, who took 50 truffle pigs without paying for them. Tanjit offers 25% of the agreed price. Lucius Vorenus is ordered to break Tanjit's arm, which he does, and when Tanjit refuses to pay up, to cut his throat, which he doesn't do. Niobe scolds him for not doing the job.
Servilia anxiously greets Caesar, who is cold and says goodbye. Servilia tries to hug him but he deflects her advances. Caesar tries to be formal and tells her this is right for the Republic. Servilia gets angry and tries scratching but he slaps her repeatedly. She falls down and is crying. Atia is happy for no reason and Octavia asks her if there's perhaps a plan of hers that bore fruit (she ordered the graffiti made).
Caesar orders Marcus Antonius to stay in Rome with the 13th legion and keep the peace but the guy is angry. Pompey is absentmindedly strolling on the beach. Cicero mentions going to his farm to Brutus, who decides to stay with Pompey. Lucius Vorenus goes to meet Marcus Antonius, who intentionally ignores his presence. After letting him sweat for a little bit, Marcus Antonius offers slightly worse terms and says he'll expect loyalty unto death. One of Servilia's maids caught one of graffiti makers and he reveals it was Timon, "the horse Jew", who hired him. Lucius Vorenus tells the news to Niobe, who is thankful. Servilia goes to cast a curse on Caesar and Atia. Lucius Vorenus goes to pray in a temple.
Titus Pullo and Octavian kidnap and question Evander in the sewers. He tells that he simply asked Niobe for advice and Titus Pullo is on the verge of believing him but Octavian says he's lying and threatens torture and death. Titus Pullo says he never actually tortured anyone and Evander confesses partially. Octavian orders his thumbs cut off and Titus Pullo does it. Evander then confesses that the child is his. Titus Pullo kills him on the spot. Octavian tells Titus Pullo Lucius Vorenus must never know about it. Caesar discovers Pompey's former camp burnt to a crisp; he and his entire entourage traveled to Greece.
Rubio is playing hide and seek with his step-sister. Niobe is fixing her husband's attire. He suggests going for a vacation but she doesn't want to leave grieving Lyde alone. It's been two months since Evander disappeared. Titus Pullo has a hangover but is ready for action. Marcus Antonius is bored to tears by a petitioner waxing poetic. By the way, I love the subtle censorship – the show uses "cack" and "cunny" instead of "shit" and "cunt", allowing the show to add appropriate flavor to characters while still remaining without foul language. Now that's how you censor things, not with a lazy BLEEP.
Publius Servilius and her wife Poppaea approach him and Marcus Antonius hugs him. They haven't actually met before but Marcus Antonius thinks cordiality creates a good relationship with civilians. Publius Servilius is the most senior senator, a former Pompeian, and Marcus Antonius decides to make him consul, as long as he:
Publius Servilius attempts to disagree but Marcus Antonius tells him he can always try persuading a crowd that Caesar is wrong. Finally, Marcus Antonius grabs Poppaea's rump and tells her to come marry him if Publius Servilius dies. Titus Pullo tries to tell Lucius Vorenus that Caesar hasn't turned out a tyrant. The latter won't go home; he wants a drink. Niobe and Rissa are discussing Niobe's daughter's mariage. Lucius Vorenus laments how Niobe acts and asks if maybe he should beat her. He gets blackout drunk and Titus Pullo carries him home. Such a tragic character. In the Senate, Publius Servilius speaks in front of the decimated ranks of senators (click the image for a 116 KB, 1916x1080px version).
All motions are carried and Marcus Antonius gives a sarcastic applause. Titus Pullo talks to Lyde about Evander and tells her he got in trouble with Greeks over gambling. She doesn't believe it but he says Evander is dead and she should move on with her life. Lyde is shattered and lashes out at Niobe, cursing her. Great, now they're never going to speak again.
Titus Pullo and Octavian have their exercise. This time, Octavian moves in the rhythm and actually wins the exercise. Atia is pleased and asks him if he penetrated anyone yet. He admits he hasn't and Atia charges Titus Pullo to solve the problem, but "none of your sordid soldiers' she-wolves".
Niobe kneels in contrition in front of a morbidly obese woman. The night has come and she hears Lucius Vorenus' footsteps. She has prettied herself up and made him a dinner. The kids are away. Niobe offers him a meal and he reluctantly agrees. They sit down and eat together. For the first time, a little bit of peace and quiet for Lucius Vorenus. She mentions her monthly cycle and says she's ready for some plowing. They kiss passionately.
Caesar sends a letter to Marcus Antonius about how he chased Pompey in Greece and how Pompey now has about 10 legions. Now Caesar is the one fleeing and needs Marcus Antonius' help. Atia is buying necklaces for herself and Octavia, who asks if they shouldn't be saving. Titus Pullo has arrived but Octavian is reluctant to meet him. Atia protests and tells him he will penetrate someone today. Titus Pullo takes him to a brothel and the madam prims herself at the sight of Octavian. She takes out the girls (and a few boys), who are dejected and have their heads bowed down. Octavian picks one girl, Egeria.
Marcus Antonius receives a secret offer from Pompey – he will give him his life, his dignity and a province. Egeria and Octavian try to make small talk but the girl barely speaks Latin. Octavian undresses and tells her to go doggy style. Meanwhile, Marcus Antonius is making two naked girls fight with swords. One of them gets cut and he licks the wound. Posca comes to remind him of his dinner with Atia, who is losing her mind waiting for him. Finally, he's there. She pretends she wasn't waiting for him at all (total lie). Octavian finished with Egeria as madam works the abacus.
Lucius Vorenus is with his wife and tells her Marcus Antonius doesn't intend to go help Caesar. She mentions that that's actually great news because isn't Caesar a tyrant? Lucius Vorenus is caught and says it's not like that. Niobe calls him an idiot. Atia tells Marcus Antonius that he could be the first man in Rome, if he wanted. He plows her and collapses beside her.
Atia asks him to get married and tells him she loves him for strategic reasons; if Pompey wins, she will need protection. Marcus Antonius tells her that Caesar losing would also mean he lost too but she says he would still have the city and people who love him. If he were to make himself a king, she would be a loving, obedient queen. Marcus Antonius tells her that he won't abandond a friend and that she's a wicked old harpy. They slap each other and she screams him out. Old lady bodyguard has a penknife to defend her mistress. He storms out just in time to see Octavian coming in.
Lucius Vorenus is finally having a giddy day with Niobe when the midget summons him to the Field of Mars. Marcus Antonius punches Pompey's emissary. Atia inspects a naked man with a massive dong (this must be a genetic defect). He's a gift for Servilia. Octavia and Octavian walk in. Atia is so proud of him and talks about making an alliance with Servilia. Octavia brings the naked man to Servilia, who sarcastically thanks her. Octavia is about to run out but Servilia tells her she's a good girl and that there shouldn't be any ill feelings between them.
Titus Pullo and Lucio Vorenus say their goodbyes to those they're leaving behind. Octavian goes to a Mediolanum academy, seeing how he's no longer safe in Rome. The legionnaires are on ships, battling with a heavy storm.
Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus are washed ashore. Caesar and Marcus Antonius discuss fighting Pompey where they stand. Pompey's crew is already celebrating their victory with a banquet. Pompey doesn't want to attack, satisfied with just waiting Caesar's army out. Cato thinks that's dishonorable and that they should definitely defeat Caesar in combat. Scipio and Cicero agree that it would look better back home if they win by force.
Atia asks Octavia to go beg Servilia for some protection. Octavia resents the idea and Atia feels offended. Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus are shipwrecked. Titus Pullo mentions drinking the blood of dead people strewn along the shore but Lucius Vorenus rebuffs him. The latter is etching a message onto a rock. Octavia goes to Servilia and they have a heart-to-heart. Octavia starts crying and Servilia hugs her. Pompey sends a message to Rome, saying the battle begins today. Caesar is woken up with the announcement that the battle will soon commence. He is perfectly calm. Posca is fretful but Caesar says he has to win; Pompey's men have other options. Armors are being donned and prayers are being said. The tension mounts just as Caesar does. We cut to the aftermath, with a weary Caesar sending a message of his victory to Rome. Pompey is wounded against a tree as one of his men approaches him.
Pompey's camp is still thinking it can win the fight, with the plan to rally the cities of Africa. They have no more funds. Cato thinks they can still win. Cicero will surrended to Caesar's mercy, he's tired and just wants to go home. Cato pleads with Brutus to stay but he says Pompey was an old fool. Pompey comes in just in time to hear it and suggests traveling to Egypt to rally troops. Cato suggests they should split apart. Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus are discussing afterlife. They try to make a raft and set out to sea. Pompey is prompted to eat by Calpurnia. Their kids are there too. They look like a bunch of beggars as the wolves howl in the distance.
In the morning, Pompey's caravan has gone on without him. He asks a man with a metal nose, Lysandros, how far more to Amphipoli. He answers but asks for payment, enraging Pompey. Octavia is playing her groin fiddle and goes to pray in front of the home altar. Atia is furious with her constant praying and tells her to visit Servilia for a weaving session. Octavia doesn't want to go but Atia tells her they must keep her happy.
Pompey's kids have both spotted the sea but also a couple of men washed ashore. Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus are given water by Lysandros. They see Pompey and Titus Pullo says he recognizes him. Pompey freaks out and wants to travel but Lysandros says they'll camp right there. Calpurnia tries to talk to Pompey but he lashes out and then regrets it. Calpurnia is quite regal and he reassures her. Servilia greets Octavia with a smile and the two chat. They are interrupted by Eleni, her servant, with the news of Caesar's total victory. Servilia wells up and Octavia touches her. They share an intense stare and a passionate kiss. Cicero and Brutus come to surrender to Caesar, who hugs them with a smile (click the image for a 152 KB, 1920x1080px version).
They are cold and distant. Cicero rambles off his terms of surrender while Caesar ignores him and talks to Brutus, kissing him on both cheeks. Cicero says Pompey doesn't want to surrender and Caesar is stunned – where can the old fool go? He's told Cato and Scipio have gone to Africa and invites them in his tent, where Marcus Antonius is sharing his hunter's tales. Everyone goes quiet. In his camp, Pompey is telling his own hunter's tales. Lysandros talks with Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus with an idea to overcome Pompey, but Lucius Vorenus gets all righteous and threatens to kill him, which he does (stab through the neck).
Lucius Vorenus presents himself and takes Pompey prisoner of the 13th Legion. Pompey insists on being just a merchant and talks with Lucius Vorenus alone, who asks him how he came to this road. Pompey says defeat seemed impossible, which is always a bad sign. Pompey retells the Battle of Pharsalus (his own cavalry fled into his center army and he lost), noting that this is how the Republic died. Pompey is on the verge of tears and begs mercy for his wife and children. Octavia and Servilia are snuggling. The next morning, Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus walk away leading a donkey.
Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus enter Caesar's camp and report on Pompey's state. Caesar asks why the latter didn't capture Pompey, seeing how he is a dangerous enemy but the latter replies that he is a broken man. Caesar is enraged and threatens crucifying him. Marcus Antonius again disputes Caesar's decision but he says those two found his standard and survived a wreck that drowned an army, so he won't kill a man with such gods protecting him. Caesar breaks camp and moves to Egypt. If this isn't a nod to the viewer about Lucius Vorenus literally being given Plot Armor, I don't know what is.
Pompey arrives to Egypt by boat, where Lucius Septimius, former centurion from 4th Legion, welcomes him with a stab in the gut and an apology. Calpurnia shields the eyes of her kids as Lucius Septimus beheads Pompey.
Brutus is finally back home, where Servilia coldly welcomes him. They hesitate but ultimately hug. She goes to touch his face but pulls back and walks away. Pompey's men who returned to Rome are given pardons. In Egypt, Caesar disembarks. I wonder if he'll be presented with some gifts. He enters the palace, where incense is being burned in copious amounts. Ptolemy is presented by a priest. It's just a fat kid on a throne, rolling his eyes.
Titus Pullo is being pelted with pebbles by kids, so he fires back with a pebble too. Caesar asks the Egyptians about the internal war between Ptolemies and then about Cleopatra. Caesar asks for Pompey and Ptolemy XIII, a bratty kid, wants to dismiss him. Caesar is presented with a gift by a thicc woman – Pompey's head. Caesar is enraged and tries to shame the Egyptian court but they have no shame. The following night, Caesar makes a funeral pyre and prays for the spirit of his old friend and enemy, Pompey.
Caesar tells Marcus Antonius to take half the men and go back to Rome, while he remains and deals with the upcoming civil war. Caesar plans to abstain from fighting against anyone and simply arbitrate. Posca tells him Ptolemy XIII has 100,000 men. Marcus Antonius tells him he's talking out of hubris, and Caesar says:
It's only hubris if I fail
Lucius Vorenus gets tasked with finding Cleopatra. He apologizes for not delivering Pompey to Caesar, who wants to collect 17 million drachma debt borrowed by Ptolemy XII. The kid stomps his feet but Caesar shouts him down. Ptolemy XIII's tries to evade paying but Caesar appoints himself the adjudicator of Ptolemaic disputes. Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo discuss their mission. The former has a small image of Cleopatra. Ptolemy XIII is angry and kicks a stool. His court advisors send thugs to find Cleopatra and kill her. Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus see the thugs galloping by and go after them.
Cleopatra is chilling in her tent. Her maid tells her that a guy named Hutto has arrived to see her. Cleopatra asks to be slapped by her maid. Hutto enters with fresh word from Alexandria. She calls him a worm and tells him to speak. He says she's about to be killed. Great job being a spy, bro. The maid starts wailing. Thugs enter the tent. Sounds of fighting are heard outside and Titus Pullo enters the tent. They struggle for a bit and then Titus Pullo minces him like a psycho and tries to charm the ladies. At Ptolemy's court, advisors discuss attacking Caesar and his "few hundred men". Caesar gets a message stating that the messenger killed Pompey. It's Lucius Septimus all right. In a few moments, we see his head being placed on a spike outside Caesar's quarters. Pretty gruesome.
Cleopatra is examining a coin with Caesar's image and thinks him handsome. Her maid gives her a pipe, with opium presumably, and tells her she's weak. Cleopatra slaps her and orders her to throw the pipe out. Pretty bizarre scene with weird characters. We see her tent is being carried by slaves through the desert (click the image for a 196 KB, 1280x1080px version). This type of tent is called a "litter"; ones carried on shoulders are "palanquins".
Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus are there too and the former tells the latter she's a "good cunny". They camp for the night and her maid tells her she's in no state to seduce anyone. Cleopatra is determined to have Caesar OR DIE. Her womb is between the floods and she would surely conceive of a child.
The maid invites Lucius Vorenus into the tent. Cleopatra sniffs him and issues the order: he is to plow the majesty. He is confused and doesn't want to be used in this way. He protests but his little Cato is eager. He leans over her but cannot comply because he isn't a slave. Cleopatra is offended but Lucius Vorenus sends in Titus Pullo, who starts humping her as the maids yodel. Titus Pullo tries to share it with Lucius Vorenus, who doesn't care about it.
The next morning, Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus enter Caesar's quarters with a rug, it's Cleopatra! She goes to meet Ptolemy XIII with her entourage and Caesar. She kisses her brother, who tries weaseling out. She accuses his eunuch of fomenting their strife. Eunuch accuses the court advisor. Soon after, two more heads are added in front of Caesar's quarters. Cleopatra asks Caesar if he has sons. He says he doesn't and she replies that a man without sons has no future. She says she's his slave now. They kiss and he plows her while Octavia and Servilia cuddle. Oh yeah, they're in the show too. Outside of Caesar's quarters, the crowd gathers and attacks.
In the senate, Brutus tells Cicero that he barely sleeps due to ill conscience. Cicero is afraid that Marcus Antonius will be able to do whatever he wants if Caesar doesn't return. Brutus tells him Caesar has escaped tighter traps. Cicero says Cato and Scipio have raised an army when Marcus Antonius enters and hugs them with a smile, telling Cicero he forgives him. Cicero feigns ignorance but Marcus Antonius tells him he knows about his plans of treason and twists his hands, promising to cut them off and nail them to the Senate door if he keeps planning it. Marcus Antonius is about to walk out but then tells them Caesar managed to destroy Ptolemy's army. In Egypt, we see Ptolemy XIII face down in a marsh (he's dead).
Cleopatra and Caesar walk out carrying a baby boy and show him to the legionnaires, who cheer approvingly. Titus Pullo yells too but he has a hunch it's his. Lucius Vorenus is quiet.
Africa after the Battle of Thapsus. Cato and Scipio are broken and defeated next to a dying elephant. Scipio suggests going to Utica for shelter and food. Cato says he needs neither but sleep would be pleasant. They march on with the remnants of their legions. They enter a dusty house. Cato asks for water; Scipio asks for bread and wine. Nightfall. Scipio tells that there's hope as long as they're living. Cato disagrees and tells him to make peace with Caesar. Cato exits with a knife, saying he needs to take a leak and then commits seppuku. Scipio sees the knife is missing and calls for help. In the morning, they've made him a funeral pyre. Scipio kneels and asks his officer to kill him, which he does by slitting his throat.
In Rome, Atia watches a burlesque stage show (the proper name escapes me). The crowd cheers when breasts are shown. Cato is shown stabbing himself and Scipio being slain. The main actor greets Caesar and the crowd cheers. It was like the news back then. Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo come back. Niobe and his daughters welcome Lucius Vorenus but Titus Pullo stands aside. The two kiss and enter the house. It's nice and they again kiss. Niobe bought more slaves; now they have four. She and Lyde made a business trading with the butcher shop.
Titus Pullo hugs Eirene, who can now speak Latin. He brought her a bracelet and puts it on. She smiles. Octavian and Timon are going back home. Atia welcomes Octavian and hugs him. Octavia hugs him too. Atia tells Timon he'll be seen later. Brutus warns Servilia they must hurry to Caesar's dinner, since he's been so good to him. Brutus tells her he's not proud with having to growl in front of Caesar. Servilia says she feels no sorrow for losing Caesar.
Caesar retells a few battles and mentiones he has to put on a triumph. Servilia and Brutus walk in and Atia comments on her shawl. Brutus shakes hands with Octavian. Servilia and Octavia look at one another and smile. Caesar watches on.
Caesar talks about bringing over a giraffe. Brutus doesn't believe such an animal exists. Atia suggests he go to the country and relax. Octavian observes Octavia. Brutus asks Caesar about his plans. Octavia and Servilia exchange glances. Atia provides anecdata. Caesar asks Octavian about putting the Republic to rights, and he says to employ citizens, create 100 new senators and start public works. Caesar likes the ideas and orders Chief Augur to instate Octavian as Pontiff. Atia tells him to kiss his uncle's hand. Octavian says he wants to focus on his poetry and Caesar disagrees. Servilia interjects, saying poetry is a young man's calling. Caesar looks at her and then away but doesn't reply.
Lucius Vorenus has built a scale model of the Battle of Thapsus, where he faced 900 elephants. Eirene is fetching water when Titus Pullo does it for her. Niobe notices Lucius Vorenus is antsy and tells him he should find something to do, meaning be a butcher. Titus Pullo joins him but they have no time to reminisce. A brawl breaks out over borrowed money. Lucius Vorenus intervenes but the ruffians offend his wife. The main ruffian tells them they're both dead men. The shopkeeper tells them those were Erastes Fulmen's people and he kills whoever he wants. Lucius Vorenus won't tolerate any ribbing by his wife. He hears knocking on the door; it's the kid he saved. Octavia and Servilia are knitting with a guide on a frame.
Servilia says she wishes she didn't care for Octavia so much and the two kiss. Servilia mentions Octavian; Octavia says Atia thinks Caesar and he are lovers but Octavian insisted it was Caesar's illness. Servilia asks more about it but Octavia can't tell more. Servilia wants to find this out to destroy Caesar, since he still has some terrible hold over her. Octavia talks with Octavian, who is learning to be the Pontiff. Octavia says she's bored and Octavian offers to read to her.
They sit in the garden and Octavian reads poetry. Octavia asks him to tell her a secret but Octavian says he doesn't know any such secrets. Octavia asks about Caesar and his mysterious affliction. Octavian tries to weasel away but Octavian tells her there are no gods to curse Caesar. Octavia tries to pretend she's indifferent and Octavian tells her about how he killed Evander with Titus Pullo. Octavia is unfazed and doesn't persist on finding out Caesar's illness.
Erastes Fulmen enters Lucius Vorenus' home, shouting to see him. Titus Pullo is there too and grabs a small dagger. Erastes Fulmen says that only he can chastize his people. Lucius Vorenus asks him to get to the point. Erastes Fulmen tells him to kneel down before him, kiss his feet and apologize the next day in Forum or his wife and daughters will be raped and the building burned.
Servilia isn't pleased with what Octavia found out and asks her to get her brother to bed to get him to spill his beans. Octavia says she can't betray her family. Servilia pushes more and Octavia wants to go home. Servilia tells her at the very last second that one of Timon's men killed Glabius.
The next day at the Forum, Erastes Fulmen and his crew look for Lucius Vorenus, who is nowhere to be found. At his home, women are already panicking and packing their bags. Lyde asks Niobe if Lucius Vorenus couldn't just bend the knee but she knows that's impossible. She sends her daughters to the countryside and remains with Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo, who have prepared their weapons and stashed them all over the house. Suddenly, Caesar arrives at Lucius Vorenus' home and starts the small talk. Erastes Fulmen is there with his thugs too and gets discouraged by the look of legionnaires.
Caesar came to ask Lucius Vorenus to become his magistrate of Lower Aventine, who again declines because he won't speak against what he believes in. Caesar says he isn't a tyrant but a dictator that has seized his powers legally and will return Rome to its former glory, returning the powers to the people once that's done. Finally, Lucius Vorenus accepts but we don't see his reaction. That was a missed opportunity to see the face of a man who has to do what is expected of him against his core beliefs.
Octavia is watching Atia getting her measures taken. It's night and Octavia wants some comical writing. Octavian says he has nothing of the sort. She sends out the slave and sets the stage for seducing Octavian, as suggested by Servilia earlier. Octavian is suspicious but lies with her anyway. He figured out what she wanted. She breaks out in tears and confesses about her relationship with Servilia.
Lucius Vorenus is wearing a toga and looks smashing in a mirror. Titus Pullo is moping in the corner. Atia literally lashes out at Octavian and again tries convincing Octavia that she didn't kill Glabius. Titus Pullo is hammered and asks Eirene to drink with him. He talks about his mother but says he doesn't know his father. Eirene conceded quietly. Titus Pullo nudges her to drink wine and get naked. Timon lies in wait for Servilia. His people start slaying her people. She falls out of her litter and brigands grab her. She is held, stripped and shaven but otherwise unharmed.
Brutus and Cicero are in the Senate, commenting on the death of the Republic. Brutus says the Republic was old and infirm, in which case death is a merciful release. Cicero talks about retiring to the country until Rome comes to its senses. Brutus mentions that, if the two of them had any honor, they would be with Cato and Scipio in afterlife. Caesar walks in with Marcus Antonius. Cicero gets up to speak and motions to grant Caesar the title of Imperator, giving him absolute power over Rome for ten years. The Senate is silent and then a lukewarm clap breaks out.
Brutus gets up and says that Caesar was invincible in battle but also wise. Brutus pledges his loyalty to Caesar and supports Cicero's motion. A hearty clap breaks out. Caesar stands up and says:
Many of you here today fought against me. Many of you wished me dead. Many of you perhaps still do. But I hold no grudges and seek no revenge. I demand only this – that you join with me in building a new Rome, a Rome that offers justice, peace and land to all its citizens, not just the privileged few. Support me in this task and old divisions will be forgotten. Oppose me and Rome will not forgive you a second time. Senators! The war is over.
An enthusiastic standing ovation breaks out.
Servilia is woken up in the middle of the night; Atia wishes to see her. Servilia can't believe it. Servants carry her in a chair because she apparently can't even walk. The two exchange forced pleasantries. Atia asks how she feels. Servilia offers her some "lemon water". Servilia asks about Octavia; she was apparently sent to a villa someplace. Actually, she is in a bath house of some sort cutting her wrists. Octavian comes in and says it's time to go back home.
Lucius Vorenus tries talking to Aventine citizens. People dismiss his words. He announces 5 days of feasting and games. Caesar meets Vercingetorix, who needs to be tidied up for the triumph. The rest of Rome is also being preened. Titus Pullo is denied participation in the triumph since he signed out of the legion. Caesar is looking at his attire. Marcus Antonius smirks and tells him that he's playing at being God. Caesar says he isn't playing and that this isn't a game.
Brutus talks to Servilia, who is barely staying upright. She speaks in a hushed voice and tells Brutus to go the "obscene display", meaning triumph. Octavia's wounds are being tended to back in Atia's house. Atia says she missed her.
Quintus, Pompey's son arrives at Servilia's house but she rejects him at first, inviting him inside her house. She calms him down and says all will be well. Caesar gets annointed with blood by Octavian. The procession starts. Vercingetorix is strangled in front of everyone.
People cheer. Each citizen gets 100 denarii from the treasury, 20,000 families get farms on public land around Caoua and all rents on low dwellings in the city are paid in full.
Brutus scolds Quintus Pompey for staying over for so long. Servilia says he can stay for as long as it pleases her. Brutus is upset. Posca is trying to explain the laws to Lucius Vorenus and tells him the elections are rigged so he wins. Lucius Vorenus thinks ill of it. Posca tells him he can help save the Republic. Titus Pullo wants to free Eirene and marry her. He feels something has changed in him.
Cicero shows Brutus some writing with his signature. He confronts Servilia, who calls it a cogent defense of Republican principles and admits to writing it in his name. The two argue. Brutus fears for his life. Servilia tells him it simply had to be done. She is using her son to take revenge on Caesar. Brutus tells her to end this insanity. Titus Pullo frees Eirene. She misunderstands it and begs to stay but then is overjoyed. A boy comes in and says he's going to marry Eirene. Titus Pullo loses it and slams his head against a pillar, killing him. Lucius Vorenus comes in and tells him the boy was his property, calling him a fool. The two have a falling out. Brutus apologizes to Caesar, who says he believes him. Brutus says he doesn't know who wrote the paper. Vercingetorix's corpse is dumped in the trash. At night, the members of his tribe burn it on a pyre. Erastes Fulmen approaches Titus Pullo and offers a job.
Titus Pullo intercepts and kills a man in the streets at night. Bums rush in and strip the dead man of valuables. Lucius Vorenus and his family are welcoming petitioners. We meet Mascius, a soldier from Lucius Vorenus' past. He says soldiers need a purpose and land in Italy. Titus Pullo is getting scorned by Erastes Fulmen. Marcus Antonius asks Caesar to evict his enemies and distribute the land to his legions. Caesar won't do it and sits in a chair he set up in the Senate. Cassius, the man who wrote the document, tells Brutus Caesar has to die.
Titus Pullo kills another man, this time in the daylight. He is chased by a hag and feels great remorse. Lucius Vorenus talks to Mascius and suggests moving the legions to Pannonia, wild land. Mascius haggles and asks for 12,000 denarii to talk the soldiers into taking the land. Lucius Vorenus and his wife are invited to Caesar's party. Caesar isn't afraid of graffiti portraying Brutus stabbing Caesar. Atia tries to warn him. Marcus Antonius approaches Octavia and asks her to talk to her for him. Octavia tells him Atia is madly in love with him.
Caesar and Atia meet Lucius Vorenus and Niobe. Men discuss the deal with Mascius. Caesar is surprised the deal was so cheap. Lucius Vorenus is offended with talk of corruption. Octavian approaches and mentions Titus Pullo is awaiting trial for murder. Octavian wants to save him but Caesar says rumors will circulate that he sent out Titus Pullo so justice must be done. Lucius Vorenus is silent. Octavian asks Castor to fetch Timon the Jew in the morning. Atia and Marcus Antonius find each other when everyone's gone. She slaps him, smiles and they kiss. Niobe and Lucius Vorenus cuddle. She has a headache.
In the dungeon, Titus Pullo awaits his trial. In the morning, Timon is beset by lawyers but only one, Priscus Maevius, wants to represent Titus Pullo, who turns out to be a stubborn client. The next morning, Titus Pullo is led to the trial. Maius Nigidius speaks for the murdered – Titus Pullo is scum and deserves to die. The crowd cheers. Lucius Vorenus is there too and notices Mascius, who is there with men to save Titus Pullo. Lucius Vorenus tells him to call them off for the greater good. Mascius wonders how it has come to this.
The crowd thinks Caesar ordered Titus Pullo kill the man. Priscus Maevius gets up and is pelted with rotten vegetables. One man tries to climb the wooden platform but is kicked in the face by one of the lictors.
Priscus Maevius asks for pity. Magistrate condemns Titus Pullo to death in the arena. Brutus and Caesar play checkers. Caesar wants to appoint Brutus as the governor of Macedonia. Brutus isn't happy with the offer and refuses. Caesar asks him to reconsider. Brutus asks if the goal is to get him out of Rome. They reminisce about the past. Brutus is offended and Caesar backpedals but ultimately tells him he has the legal power to demand it. Brutus says only tyrants are afraid of tyrant killers and storms off. Titus Pullo prays in the dungeon. He feels sorry for what he did and squashes a bug as offering. He is brought to the arena and sits down, not wanting to fight, as the crowd boos. Other gladiators are pleased with such as easy target. Lucius Vorenus again comes to watch.
Gladiators tell him he's meant to resist. Titus Pullo wants them to kill him and falls asleep. The gladiator starts trashing the 13th legion and Titus Pullo gets mad, stabbing one through the gut and decapitating the other with a shield. Now he's got a sword but the remaining gladiator knows to fight as well. Titus Pullo cuts off his arm and even scares the legionnaire guards away. More gladiators rush in and Titus Pullo is overwhelmed and can barely stand but he's killed them all, except one. This final gladiator comes in wielding a mace, pushes Titus Pullo to the ground and is about to kill him when Lucius Vorenus charges in, grabs a sword and fights for Titus Pullo. The final gladiator is stabbed with the entire length of the sharp end of his mace between his left shoulderblade and the neck. They amble out.
We learn Caesar did actually hire Erastes Fulmen to kill the man, who was Caesar's critic. Brutus tells Servilia he owes Caesar no more friendship and that he must do his duty.
We see the stage re-enactment of the fight. Atia and Octavia were watching the stage play too. Titus Pullo is resting as a man is drawing a portrait of him. There will be a mural of him and Lucius Vorenus in the arena. The two are famous in Rome as symbols of brotherly love and redemption. Titus Pullo takes a horse and rides out to Rome. Lucius Vorenus and Niobe go to visit their land outside the city. Priests chant next to the ceremonial fire as the spouse lie in the dirt in a missionary position. They kiss. The priest rings his bell but they are still kissing.
Lucius Vorenus comes back home and sees Titus Pullo in the bed. The doctor ties him up to the bed and orders a 10-day rest. Lucius Vorenus wakes him up and says Caesar would probably throw them both back in the arena. They laugh like in the good old times. Niobe doesn't mind and says she's happy Lucius Vorenus is laughing. Eirene hears them too but she's got killing eyes. Indeed, at nightfall we see her with a knife approaching Titus Pullo, who wakes up and smiles. She wants to slit his throat but Niobe interrupts her – a freedwoman killing her old master? Titus Pullo wants to chit-chat but Niobe is distant and walks away.
Lucius Vorenus has been summoned in front of Caesar. Niobe orders Eirene feed Titus Pullo and change his dressings. She spits in his porridge but he's probably eaten worse. Caesar orders 100 new men raised to the Senate, with a banquet to commemorate the event. Slaves and freedmen are not eligible for the banquet. Caesar walks on a huge map of Rome, discussing his plans.
Cicero grovels. Caesar wants to include Gauls and Celts to the Senate. Lucius Vorenus walks in. Caesar berates him but says the people have made great heroes out of them, ergo he cannot punish him. Caesar says Lucius Vorenus will be made a senator of Rome by popular acclaim. Everyone is astonished. Lucius Vorenus is stunned but accepts the offer. Caesar kisses him on both cheeks. Cicero is furious but Caesar says he has to please the people but also to take up the best men in Italy to the Senate, not just rich old men.
Lucius Vorenus talks with his daughter about finding her a husband. Niobe talks about finding her a rich old man but the daughter doesn't care about such trifles as dresses and jewels. Niobe and Lucius Vorenus laugh at her talking about love and say it has to be earned.
Calpurnia dreamt of a flock of birds making the shape of a skull. She pleads with Caesar to leave Rome. He says he's extremely weary but there is much more to be done. She says that's always the case but to what end. He says it's a good question, one Posca can answer. Servilia and Brutus pray to their ancestors for strength and having his heart filled with sacred rage.
Titus Pullo talks a boy into untying him and gets up, walking on a crutch. He tries to talk to women washing clothes but they all shun him, all except one. He brings her home but chickens out and tells her to go away. He's still hopelessly in love with Eirene. Meanwhile, Lucius Vorenus and his family is attending the banquet. Brutus, Cassius, Casca and Cicero comment on the new senators.
Brutus and his crew discuss the assassination plot due to the fear of being degraded and powerless. They discuss poisoning Caesar and so on but Brutus says he will do it in the Senate. Servilia touches his hand, the first sign of affection we've seen. Servilia recalls having heard of Lucius Vorenus before. She invites Atia, who wants to bring Octavian too. Servilia sends out a maid, who tells Lucius Vorenus that he's a cuck. Lucius Vorenus connects the dots and storms off.
Caesar walks into the Senate, where one conspirator clumsily grabs him and shouts for others to join. Caesar grabs a dagger with his hand and then everyone jumps into the fray. There's a commotion and people rush out. Brutus never did anything. Lucius Vorenus rushes back home. Cassius urges Brutus to stab at Caesar, who is barely sitting up. Brutus stabs him and Caesar covers his face with a corner of his toga. There were no final words "Et tu Brutus?"
Lucius Vorenus is smashing up the place and asks Niobe if Lucius is his grandson. She says she thought he was dead. He takes up a knife and she inches away, throwing herself off a balcony. Servilia invites Atia and Octavian over, gloating over what was happening and enjoying in watching Atia squirm. Atia says, "Thanks for the visit". Titus Pullo and Eirene are walking away, hand in hand.
Bloody mess in the Senate. Marcus Antonius walks outside and is met by bandits trying to kill him. He flees. Brutus is finally commended by Servilia. Brutus is shaking. Servilia urges him to be strong and be ready for leadership. The poor thing is violently trembling. Posca is sobbing over Caesar's corpse. Lucius Vorenus is weeping over his wife's corpse as the kid Lucius approaches. He grabs and starts shaking the kid when his two daughters and Lyde barge in and offer themselves as punching bags. He tries to power up his falcon punch but can't.
He finally calms down but curses them nonetheless and walks away.
Posca carts Caesar's corpse away. Atia is sobbing and sends Octavian away. He talks to Octavia, who realizes what Servilia did. Timon has arrived with 10 men and says the city is dead quiet. Atia says Marcus Antonius is probably dead and orders things packed, just like Servilia said she will do. Marcus Antonius barges in, swearing to take revenge. They exchange information on what had happened. Atia starts whinging that he wants to leave her. He says they need to rescue Calpurnia too, since it will look ill if she's abandoned.
Lucius Vorenus wakes up on the streets, with some hobo chanting and headbutting him to steal his bracelets. Titus Pullo made Eirene a wreath of flowers. He asks her to marry him. She cringes a bit. He promises dresses and shoes. She silently nods and smiles. That means "yes". He thumbs some mud on their foreheads and they kiss. Caesar is being breastfed as Calpurnia is mourning. Marcus Antonius walks in with his entourage. Calpurnia says nobody else has come to pay respects. Atia falls on Caesar's chest and weeps. Calpurnia says Caesar left a will and insists it be read immediately.
Marcus Antonius is seething that he wasn't mentioned. Atia is salivating. Marcus Antonius says the will means nothing because Brutus and his crew will declare all Caesar's acts null and void, claiming all his estate. Octavian says he and Atia must stay and protect the family. Octavian says that Brutus will lose all rank, since that was bestowed by Caesar, whose all acts are null and void; if he doesn't declare Caesar a tyrant, then he's a murderer. Atia threatens to slap him. Posca refuses to obey Marcus Antonius, who wants to kidnap Calpurnia. Atia snaps out of it and says she's staying.
Titus Pullo is still trying to make Eirene call him something other than "master". A horserider barges in, saying Caesar is dead. Titus Pullo pushes him off the horse and rides off with Eirene. Women are preening Niobe while the boy Lucius is scrubbing at the blood stain. Lucius Vorenus comes to. Erastes Fulmen walks into his house.
Cicero enters Servilia's house, praising the conspirators and regretting that he wasn't there to wield a knife as well (he was actually a massive coward in real life). He kisses Brutus' hand. Brutus tells him they have 2,000 men and the city is theirs. Cicero says he will leave to the countryside to deal with a 'lawsuit'. Marcus Antonius enters. Lucius Vorenus is back home when Titus Pullo walks in and learns what happened with Niobe. The kids are gone.
Marcus Antonius tells them a great many people will worship Caesar until they die. Cassius says they have men-at-arms, so who cares. Marcus Antonius tells them elections will have to be held to decide who will be in charge, which will be in the interest of avoiding bloodshed. Marcus Antonius offers a deal: it will be as if Caesar was struck by lighting and everyone will be granted amnesty, they will hold a massive public funeral and he will retire to plow his fields and slaves. Servilia asks for some time to talk his offer over.
Brutus is furious at Cassius ordering the death of Marcus Antonius. Cicero hints at killing him right now. Brutus wants to keep the public order and thinks Marcus Antonius will destroy himself. Servilia says he's not right outside so hospitality laws do not apply. Brutus says, "You too, mother?" which is funny. Brutus walks outside and tells Marcus Antonius they will be friends. He hugs Brutus and kisses him on the cheek. Marcus Antonius walks to Quintus Pompey and slits his throat (he was the one trying to kill him after he left the Senate).
Lucius Vorenus is slowly becoming his old self and realizes he cursed his kids. Titus Pullo is gentle with him and says that as long as he doesn't kill an animal on it, it's no biggie. Servilia visits Calpurnia's home to pay respects and gets spit on twice. She does see Caesar's body. Octavian and Titus Pullo discuss what happened with Caesar's killing; Octavian says he is ashamed of what he's done but wouldn't want it be known because "it would look ill with the people". Lucius Vorenus is in a trance over Niobe's body.
Atia wakes up Marcus Antonius, who wants to plow a woman in a funeral dress. Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus wait for his kids to come back (they won't). Titus Pullo tries to console him. They cart Niobe's body away and burn it on a pyre. Meanwhile, ditto is happening with Caesar in Rome. Marcus Antonius suggests Brutus leaves the city as grain monitor to audit Asian ports. Brutus won't do it. Marcus Antonius threatens them with the mob eating them alive. Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus find Lyde rummaging through the latter's house. She tells them Erastes Fulmen took the kids.
Erastes Fulmen is listening to a retelling of Ceasar's funeral. We hear how Marcus Antonius riled up the mob by showing them Caesar's bloody toga. Erastes Fulmen tells them that's a disgrace and that his crew should observe fucking decencies. How ironic for a mobster. Later on, he is in the sauna when he hears a scuffle outside. Suddenly, it all goes quiet. Lucius Vorenus stalks in with a bloody face and asks for his kids. Erastes Fulmen denies any knowledge of it. Erastes Fulmen runs outside half naked and sees Titus Pullo bloodied up amidst his dead crew. The time for reckoning has come.
Erastes Fulmen plays coy and drinks some wine, talking about how he plowed his kids, killed them and threw them in the river. Lucius Vorenus swiftly cuts off his head and carries it outside.
Lucius Vorenus brought Erastes Fulmen's head home and lies in his bed. We see a man stabbed in the back running down an alley. He collapses and bleeds out. A hag prays for his soul as Titus Pullo nearly empties a bucket of urine on her. Just another day in Lucius Vorenus' neighborhood. Eirene won't kiss Titus Pullo and wants to move out. She says they can't stay for much longer; if they made a baby there, it would turn out a monster. We see Erastes Fulmen's head rotting inside. Titus Pullo tries to talk some sense into Lucius Vorenus, who asks him to leave.
A month has passed. Lucius Vorenus is beset with guilt – he thinks he caused Caesar's, Niobe's and his kids' deaths. Atia asks Marcus Antonius about Cleopatra. She's jealous. Octavian asks him about Caesar's inheritance but gets the run-around. Marcus Antonius is wearing purple, the color of nobility, as his servants carry his litter. Marcus Antonius talks to Cleopatra. He's going to plow her, isn't he? Posca interrupts and offers the proposals – 10 grain shipments and 48, 35, 45 42,000 denarii a month. Cleopatra asks that Marcus Antonius accepts her son, the one Titus Pullo sired, as his own. He asks to plow her and she slaps him. Marcus Antonius refuses. Cleopatra invites him to dinner tomorrow.
Marcus Antonius learns that the death of Erastes Fulmen's death has thrown Aventine in turmoil. Marcus Antonius dismisses him. Cicero rubs verbal salt on his wound. Posca shows Cicero a parchment with Caesar's list of candidates. Cicero notes that it was a prodigious find. Marcus Antonius asks for Cicero's endorsement but the latter is indignant and refuses, unless he can cross out the worst scoundrels. Marcus Antonius throws his hands up, agrees and dismisses him. Soon after, he walks out to meet plaintiffs begging for his attention, and among them – Titus Pullo. Marcus Antonius walks to Lucius Vorenus' home and shouts him out of his coma, trying to face him the chaos he's caused.
He is asked why he hasn't killed himself. Marcus Antonius throws the head out and tells him there is still chance for redemption.
Atia and Marcus Antonius are bathing together. She asks about Cleopatra. He playfully asks about her being bitten by a moray eel. Octavian exchanges glances with some scoundrels getting ready for a fight. He enters the home and finds Octavia. Servilia is inside too, she says she didn't want to be there. Atia offers her friendship and reconciliation. The two kiss. Atia gloats. Octavian asks if she wants to kill her and threatens to tell Marcus Antonius. She is offended but doesn't deny it and sends Timon and his men away. Egyptians walk into the party with Cleopatra. Atia scowls. Cleopatra tries seducing Marcus Antonius. Cleopatra introduces Cesarion. Atia says he looks nothing like Caesar. They lie down and eat.
Levy, Timon's brother, comes in. Levy is a spice, wine and oil merchant. Cleopatra bids Marcus Antonius farewell and says Atia is her friend for life. Two women kiss and Atia whispers something about "spawn trollop". Levy talks about politics in Jerusalem and how their leaders lick the boots of Romans. Timon asks him to stay quiet and not bring politics into his home. We see gangs slaughtering each other as a priestly procession calls all gang captains to attend a parley.
Lucius Vorenus talks to all gang captains and says he's now the successor of Erastes Fulmen. Each gang will receive 5,000 denarii a month if they keep calm. One gang captain protests, Gaius Ignus Acerbo. He asks why would sane and respectable people do business with him, a cursed beast. Lucius Vorenus flips out, draws a sword and threatens them all.
Marcus Antonius justifies himself to Atia. Octavian pesters him about his inheritance until Marcus Antonius flips out and tells him he won't get a single coin. Atia tells Octavian to apologize. Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo discuss the gang captains' mood. Octavian announces to sell his property to pay out Caesar's promise. Marcus Antonius is furious. Octavian tries to calmly convince him the two need each other but the former gets enraged and pins him to the ground.
Octavian says he borrowed 3 million sestercii to pay the pledge. The two fight and a fire breaks out. Atia cries out. Titus Pullo discusses business with a junior relations manager and hires their old friends. Servilia is happy about the internal fight and brags to Cicero. He advises against calling Brutus back. Octavian leaves Atia and says he's determined to pursue a political career. He wants to stay with Agrippa, his friend south who is established there. We see the kids of Lucius Vorenus chained up and carted south alongside Octavian's convoy.
Lucius Vorenus wakes up in a room and hears a commotion. He's back in Rome, commanding gangsters in the Aventine. They think he's joking but obey. He hears complaints by one of Memmio's men and defends one of his men from accusations of forcing a boy to perform fellatio. Titus Pullo tries to moderate his position but Lucius Vorenus tells him to keep his mouth shut. They again go through the "don't question my authority in front of others" dance. A girl named Jocasta is getting high on some hemp. Octavia tries it too but thinks it's horrid. Atia scolds them for it but joins in. Jocasta tells them Macedonia (Greece) is the end of the world. Atia tells Octavia to stop socializing with a tradesman's daughter.
Atia goes to her chamber and Timon walks in. She sends him away. He is mad. Castor is again plowing boys, this time the stable boy, Duro. Timon comes home to see Levi teaching his kids Hebrew. We see a slave woman somewhere looking outside. Quick cut to the ocean. Marcus Antonius is stuffing his face with food at Atia's place. She is jealous and doesn't want to go to Macedonia. He says he wants peace and quiet to squeeze a province dry. Atia tells him to keep fighting and kill his enemies, who won't forgive him so easily
Timon sees Levi with some strange man. Levi says that's Barak, a saffron trader. Lucius Vorenus hears a scream, when one of his men who he previously defended comes in wounded. Lucius Vorenus is seething. Titus Pullo tries to calm him down but it doesn't work. The two have an argument they've had a dozen times so far. Titus Pullo confesses to killing Evander and Lucius Vorenus' eyes glaze over.
Cicero talks about Octavian's army with Marcus Antonius. He says he wants to take Gaul instead of Macedonia when he finishes being a consul. They discuss if Cicero will support him and at what cost. Cicero trembles and quavers but refuses. Titus Pullo tries to mend their friendship and it apparently works. Lucius Vorenus says he's the only one left in his life. The offending gangster is being punished. Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa enters Atia's home and sees Octavia playing a harp. He's lovestruck and tells her about Octavian's 10,000 men. Atia walks in and threatens to tell it to Marcus Antonius.
Agrippa goes cold and walks out. Atia says she has no son. Marcus Antonius must really be packing heat, huh? One of the servant girls catches a boy, Duro, in the kitchen preparing some food. She won't tell anyone. They kiss. The boy skulks out and enters Servilia's house and reports that the food can be poisoned but it will kill both Atia and Octavia. The boy asks for shekels and asks for a kiss. Servilia is stunned but eventually agrees. It must be like kissing a mummy.
Brutus and Cassius are trying to negotiate terms in Bithynia (eastern Turkey). The king wants to see a Roman woman plowed by baboons. Brutus is retelling the story of how he singlehandedly killed Caesar. The foreign officials call him a coward. He's buzzed and doesn't take well to teasing. Brutus calls their host some bad names and screams in his tunic when left alone. Atia is taking a bath. Marcus Antonius walks in and joins her. They discuss Agrippa and Octavian.
Lyde is trying to push out some planks and escape the slave camp. She does but the guard notices them. Lucius Vorenus has to fight against Memmio and calls the armed assembly. Titus Pullo feels ignored. Lucius Vorenus again doubts his loyalty and accuses him of being Niobe's lover. Titus Pullo says a demon possessed him and says he loves him but then says he did sleep with Niobe just to enrage him. The two fight and fall through a window among the assembled men in the tavern. Eirene holds up Titus Pullo as Lucius Vorenus is left crying like a whipped child.
Brutus is slowly riding and stops next to a creek. He gets undressed and decides to bathe. He looks up in the sky and prays to be born again, falling back first into water and emerging again. What in him has changed?
Marcus Antonius enters the Senate and is about to start when he sees Cicero is missing. Instead, his speech is read in front of the Senate:
When I was a young man, I defended our state. As an old man, I shall not abandon it. I give sincere thanks to Marcus Antonius, who has generously presented me with the most promising theme imaginable. I address you directly, Antonius. Please listen as if you were sober and intelligent and not a drink-sodden, sex-addled wreck. You are certainly not without accomplishments. It is a rare man who can boast of becoming a bankrupt before even coming of age (senators are seen leaving throughout the speech). You have brought upon us war, pestilence and destruction. You are Rome's Helen of Troy. But then, a woman's role has always suited you best (insinuation that he was a bottom in homo sex?).
Infuriated by these words, Marcus Antonius jump up from his (Caesar's) throne and starts beating the poor speaker. All senators have left. Cicero writes a note to Octavian, gloating about his speech and asks for Octavian's army. Three months later, Marcus Antonius has besieged Mutina, a city in Gaul. Two Roman generals, Hirtius and Pansa, are sent to assist Octavian's army. Titus Pullo and Eirene are back to Rome from Massilia to sort things out with Lucius Vorenus but find a scorched suburb. Titus Pullo is informed Lucius Vorenus left with Marcus Antonius to Gaul. Lyde finds them (what an accident!) and cries tears of relief, telling him Lucius Vorenus' kids are alive.
In Atia's home, the slave boy stalks his chance to poison Atia's food. He drops in something turquoise into a pot. Atia is served sea urchins but sends them back. She asks for something else, and that just happens to be what the slave boy poisoned the moment prior (what an accident!). The new meal is a savory stew of goose and root vegetables. The slave boy pours some stew into the bowl as Atia is growing hungry.
Atia is aching for some music. She asks a girl slave to sing and the girl obliges but starts bleeding from her mouth and collapses. She tasted the food she was carrying to Atia; it was poisoned. The poison was intended for Atia, who would have eaten it had it not been for the song. A boy watches from around the corner and starts fleeing. He is caught, whipped to the bone and seared with burning iron by Timon. Octavia sees it and objects. Her friend vomits. Atia asks the boy to confess and he does.
Castor pleads for mercy and Atia tells he should be made a eunuch but won't this time. He kisses her feet. The boy was one Castor saved from the street in a prior episode. The boy tries to bargain for his life and tries running away. Timon cuts his pleas short with a knife to the gut and a slice to the throat. The body is thrown in the sewer. Timon goes to his house, where his family sees him bloody. Levy objects and tries to order his kids around. Timon shouts at them and they exit the stage. Levy scorns him and calls him an animal. Timon's wife henpecks him too. Levy says she deserves better and asks Timon if he's proud. He says he is. Levy tells him he's a Jew and grabs him to hit him. Timon pulls out a knife and threatens Levy. Timon's son sees the scene.
In the north, Octavian's army fights that of "traitor" Marcus Antonius, who is now the enemy of Rome, at Mutina.
Titus Pullo arrives at the scene of the fight and tries to find Lucius Vorenus to tell him his kids are alive. How did Titus Pullo discover this? Octavian, now a grown man, greets and gives him supplies alongside a parchment with his seal to go north and find Lucius Vorenus. Octavian writes up a few letters and sends Agrippa with them to Rome: one to Octavia, the other to Cicero asking for triumph. Octavian holds a speech to his soldiers, telling them they'll be going to Rome for their money. Titus Pullo looks for Lucius Vorenus as the legions march south and finally finds him.
Marcus Antonius orders his men to reorganize and move north, trying to maintain morale with humor. Posca tries to bring sense to Marcus Antonius but he won't negotiate, since that's a "slave tactic". Lucius Vorenus approaches and asks to leave the legion. Marcus Antonius smirks at his politeness before desertion.
In Western Turkey, Brutus is up to 9 legions, with 25,000 infantry and 10,000 cavalry, almost a match for Marcus Antonius. Brutus is getting prepped to wipe out Marcus Antonius as Servilia prays in a temple before being kidnapped and brought to Atia's dungeon. Atia gloats for a bit before having one of her servants plow her. Her anguished screams echo through Atia's estate as Timon flogs her afterwards. Atia asks if she's had enough. Servilia spits on her and the torture continues. Timon is exhausted and lacking in inspiration. Atia says to cut up her face but Timon sets her free. Atia is confused. Servilia stumbles out all bloodied and skitters home. Atia hugs the wall and thinks about what happened; Timon just tried to choke her.
Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus are riding. Titus Pullo suggests camping. Lucius Vorenus doesn't even want to consider it. Titus Pullo confesses to killing Evander and gets a "thank you". They finally camp next to a fire and Titus Pullo talks about how a slave camp changes people and asks Lucius Vorenus to be gentle. Lucius Vorenus promises it but does say he has to kill to bastard. Servilia is in fetal position and freaking out as her maids try to nurture her to sanity. Octavia gets the letter from Octavian through Agrippa and learns of the news. Agrippa gets flustered and starts courting her. Octavia interrupts him and changes the topic. Atia walks in and learns the news. Cicero learns the news from Agrippa also. He is suspicious of Octavian Caesar bringing his army to Rome.
Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus arrive at the slave camp and see wretched souls toiling as they're whipped into shape. Titus Pullo gives coin to a slave driver to point them in the right direction. They meet the overlord of the camp and say they're looking for runaways. The overlord asks for papers. They've got none. Lucius Vorenus is about to blow his lid off but Titus Pullo shows the seal and tells the slaves are sex toys for Octavian. The overlord isn't buying it but shows them around. Lucius Vorenus sees one of his daughters in the kitchen and bursts into tears. He sees boy Lucius too and grabs him. The boy freezes in panic but Lucius Vorenus embraces him. The overlord figures out something's wrong but they've got him now. The third kid is used as a sex toy in the barracks. After killing the overlord, they move out with the kids.
Timon is praying with that black cube on his forehead. Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus drive a cart with the latter's kids inside. Titus Pullo suggests taking them anywhere else than back to Rome, which is filled with thieves. They encounter some sort of checkpoint, with Octavian's soldiers checking the carriages. The kids want to run away but the older sister says they have no money yet. The two men find out Octavian brought his 15,000-strong army to Rome, putting up camp on the field of Mars.
Cicero praises Octavian, who still won't be given a triumph because it was a victory over other Romans. Marcus Antonius still lives and two legions were sent after him. Octavian asks for a consul's chair but Cicero rebuffs him – no experience, no connections and no wisdom that comes with old age. Though, he does have an army. Cicero offers his mentorship if he does become a consul and Octavian agrees.
Octavia is arguing with Atia about Octavian. Atia is cold and asks for money. Lucius Vorenus and his kids enter the collegium, the one where he and Titus Pullo fought and went out the window. Eirene is there too and hugs them. Lucius Vorenus is trying to be cheery but the kids are cold and formal. Octavia and Octavian are teasing each other. She brings up Atia. Octavian is dejected that not even her sister is on his side. She tries threatening and cajoling him but he is adamant and won't enter the city until he becomes a consul, taking residence at Caesar's villa. He turns formal and dismisses her. She throws a tantrum and storms out.
Lucius Vorenus gets a status report from his captain, who is placed as third in command after Titus Pullo and feels slighted. Lyde, dressed in white, enters the collegium. She's joined the temple of blessed Orbona and is well. She asks about the children but Lucius Vorenus warns her the kids are going to be staying with him. The kids are overjoyed when Lyde walks in the room. Eirene is crying as she's washing the dishes. She says Titus Pullo that she's surrounded with bad people and suspects he loves Lucius Vorenus more than her.
Atia enters Octavian's tent. He is distant and formal while she trepidates and is overwhelmed by emotions, kneeling and asking for forgiveness. She asks for a second chance and says she's sorry. Octavian says he forgives her but doesn't hug her back. Octavian visits his home to meet Octavia. They hug. A priest is doing a cleansing ritual for Lucius Vorenus' children, smearing chicken blood over their faces. Their dad renounces darkness.
Lepidus enters Marcus Antonius's tent. The latter is shaggy. Lepidus laments how quickly his troops deserted instantly. Marcus Antonius is smug and thanks him for the reinforcements and says he should kill him but then offers him a position in his army. Lepidus hesitates but eventually agrees.
Octavian and Titus Pullo talk about the latter's married life. Octavian says it's an awkward arrangement but it's a natural arrangement and so must be good. Octavian is coy about his own wedding plans. Titus Pullo says Lucius Vorenus remains in loyal oath to Marcus Antonius and will fight for him if he returns. Octavian is understanding and puts on a laurel wreath. Titus Pullo congratulates him on doing well and Octavian thanks him.
Thunderous applause in the Senate as Cicero speaks. Octavian approaches, wearing a laurel wreath on his head, and is sworn in as the youngest consul. He honors Caesar and promises an era of moral virtue and dignity, ending chaos and debauchery. He declares Brutus and Cassius murderers and enemies of the state. Cicero is antsy and approaches him, saying that this isn't what they agreed on and that he will split the Republic. Octavian tells him to step away from his chair.
Octavian talks about Caesar's murder and mentions his legions, at which point soldiers enter the Senate and draw their swords. Octavian dares senators to speak against the motion. After the session, Cicero laments that he's been outmaneuvered by a child. Cicero writes a letter to Brutus and Cassius, calling them heroes of the Republic, knowing full well this now marks him as the enemy of the Republic and Octavian.
Lucius Vorenus enters his kids' room, where the older daughter is preparing to flee after the younger stole some coins for her. She is fretful and with bated breath. Poor Lucius Vorenus is trying to make up but the kids are cold. He promises to fix a broken elephant toy lying on the floor and suggests they all spend a day together in the country. The two younger kids are mum and look at the older daughter, who says, "If you'd like". The younger daughter spits after him when he leaves.
Lucius Vorenus is fixing the toy as a woman with dreads asks him about if he's ever seen elephants. They chat and she says that he can plow her, if he likes. He is silent and she is about to walk out but then the plowing commences. Lucius Vorenus plows her with his little sword. She wants to cuddle but he sends her away and tells her to take some coins from the table. She thought he liked her and says she's not a whore but he insists she take the money, which she eventually does.
Naked bodies are undulating. It's an orgy hosted by Maecenas. Agrippa is asking to leave but Maecenas is chilling and says the best part is yet to come. Octavia is getting high too with Jocasta, in fact, everyone is getting high. Agrippa takes Octavia to Atia's house and is about to get out when Atia interrogates him. Octavia explains what happened and ultimately confesses she was at an orgy. Atia calls her a "stupid drunken slut" and blames Jocasta. Octavia says, "So I was at an orgy. Who cares?" Atia is livid because it ruins Octavian's image and asks Agrippa why he's so helpful. He confesses to loving Octavia but she says he doesn't know her. He tries to threaten Atia because of her mean words to Octavia but words fail him.
Brutus and Cassius get the letter, in which they are asked to come back. Brutus is optimistic and hopes Marcus Antonius and Octavian will fight each other with their seven and four legions respectively; all they have to do is mop up the survivors. They hug. A scribe is summoned to write a letter to Cicero. Lucius Vorenus is drinking with Memmio and Cotta. He is teased about his children being slaves by Cotta. Awkward silence. Lucius Vorenus proposes peace with Memmio, admitting to being angry. Memmio asks for terms of the peace and Lucius Vorenus splits up the territory, wanting to make them happy. They clasp hands.
Once alone, Titus Pullo tells Lucius Vorenus that they'll think he's gone soft. Cotta says to Memmio that Lucius Vorenus has gone soft and they plot how to take everything over. The kids have fled the home and come to Lyde. The older daughter calls Lucius Vorenus "that evil man". Lyde scolds her for being so foolish—out all alone in the streets, the first thief will get their money and they will be reduced to prostitution to survive.
Lyde sits her down and tells her that she should stay with his father, be an obedient daughter, kneel before him and tell him she loves him, even if it means carrying her hatred inside her like a stone. She cries and thinks Lucius Vorenus will see right through it but Lyde tells her this is their only chance to survive and what Niobe would have wanted. What an emotional scene but with some continuity errors as Lyde's hands are seen clasping the daughter's face from one angle but then aren't in another.
Octavian and Cicero talk. Cicero demands he surrender the control of his legions because senators feel resentful of being coerced into agreeing. Octavian scoffs at the threat and says it has "no teeth". Maecenas quips but Octavian doesn't emote. Cicero announces Brutus and Cassius are bringing home 20 legions but again Octavian doesn't emote. Octavian defends his actions but Cicero asks him to lay down his arms and surrender for mercy. Octavian still doesn't emote but then his face starts twitching when Cicero walks out.
Octavian realizes 10 legions would be enough to crush him but Agrippa and Maecenas still ask him for guidance. He says he doesn't know when Atia walks in and asks if someone died. Servilia is writing a letter to Brutus, calling him "my dear son", which is a strange term of endearment for her. She encloses his father's ring, which has been passed down from his father, kissing it first, which is more affection than she has shown him throughout the show. We learn the ring is made of gold from the crown of the last king but notes it could be a made up story.
Marcus Antonius is still shaggy and suggests they march to Rome when roads dry up. Lepidus mildly disagrees, calling it "a touch aggressive". A soldier calls Marcus Antonius outside as a procession goes down the road; Atia in a fur coat with a fox pelt! Marcus Antonius smiles upon seeing her. She knows she still has him by the shaft. She says she's not sure about the beard and they have a long kiss.
After the plowing, he asks how she managed to get here all alone. She says she's not alone and in the morning we see Octavian has arrived with his men. Their soldiers look on as the two generals shake hands and hug without hesitation. Marcus Antonius smiles but Octavian is looking at Atia.
In the collegium, a feast for the family. The kids are serving their father, who is ladling the soup. The older daughter is polite and thanks him for the compliment on her cooking but behind her back is holding the "devil's horns" sign (extended index and pinky finger).
Legions of Brutus and Cassius are marching through northern Greece. Brutus is happy like a child and says he's been talking to men. Cassius is worried and says hope they fight as well as they eat, saying he only sees 100,000 mouths to feed. Brutus is poetic but Cassius is prosaic, saying there's still Octavian to defeat. Brutus rides off and Cassius breaks a smile.
In Cisalpine Gaul, Marcus Antonius and Octavian plan their surprise assault by marching to Greece and intercepting the 20 legions of Brutus and Cassius. The former speaks but the latter is writing and ignores him. Marcus Antonius wonders what's going on but Octavian throws him the list he just wrote of all the Brutus's and Cassius's supporters in Rome, who should be killed before their surprise is ruined.
Marcus Antonius calls him a "ferocious little cunt" and says Cicero must die first because he has an extensive network of spies but we all know it's that speech before sitting down to add a few names to the list. Octavian intends to march to Greece all alone and Lepidus is left behind with a small force to protect the peace in Rome. Octavian orders the hitlist be delivered to Lucius Vorenus for gangs to deal with. Atia wants to chip in and says Rufus Tranquillus, the father to Octavia's friend Jocasta because she doesn't like the girl. Octavian scolds her for being so petty but Posca interjects saying that he is rich and his money will come in handy. Marcus Antonius orders Cicero's hands be cut off and nailed to the Senate door.
Marcus Antonius says goodbye to Atia, who is tired of the custom and asks for Brutus's head as a wedding gift. Yeah, they're never getting married. Lucius Vorenus walks in as his older daughter is getting made up and orders her to wash it off, scolding the girl with dreads for doing it, who tries to talk smart but is warned to keep her mouth shut. The older daughter rubs the blush from her face with her dress and washes it away with her tears.
Lucius Vorenus distributes the hitlist and orders the older daughter to keep the kids out of the mud. Lucius junior runs into the mud with the fixed elephant toy as two scoundrels spot them and one approaches the older daughter, engages her in a conversation but then is at a loss for words. The chaperone hag pushes him away and takes the kids off.
In the collegium, gangsters are squabbling about how the hitlist was divided. Lucius Vorenus suggests they start dividing their spoils to the common people so they aren't afraid of the collegia (gangs). Other gangsters are skeptical but Lucius Vorenus says the time of peace is coming and the collegia have to become peaceful or they'll die. Gangsters are recalcitrant but Lucius Vorenus promises to finance the Feast of Pomona and Memmio finally agrees that they should show goodwill. Titus Pullo is quiet and says nothing.
The scoundrel summons Lucius junior and gives him a toy resembling two braided crosses to give to the older daughter, seeing how the chaperone is asleep. The two exchange glances. Cotta and Memmio talk and it turns out the scoundrel is one of Memmio's men. Titus Pullo heads off to kill Cicero; Lucius Vorenus tells him that he shouldn't be looting to show some respect. The girl with dreads inquires about his plans and sticks his hand in her groin. Eirene sees it and is jealous but he suggests they all go to the country, which they do and have a wonderful picnic. Titus Pullo rides off to deal with some business (kill Cicero).
Cicero is playing a board game as he is informed he's on a hitlist and that Octavian and Marcus Antonius are united. He writes a letter to Brutus and sends out a courier. The show depicts him as a hero trying to save the Republic but I don't think he was like that. Titus Pullo walks in and introduces himself. They exchange pleasantries. Cicero says his work today will earn him immortality. Titus Pullo smells the peaches and Cicero offers money but that's not enough. One servant runs out with a blade but Cicero scolds him for looking so absurd. Cicero stalls for time and looks at the sky one last time as Titus Pullo takes some peaches for Eirene. Cicero says to the servant to take care of his people as he wails. Titus Pullo suggests he kneels, which he does, and then stabs him down the neck.
Lyde tries to talk about marrying the older daughter but Lucius Vorenus doesn't want to hear about it. Lucius junior runs out to the road and he's almost hit by a car horse and it's actually the courier, who tries whipping Lucius Vorenus, who throws him off the horse but Lyde tells him to restrain himself. The tube with the letter drops down on the ground as the courier rides away.
Titus Pullo gets back with peaches and says there was no problem. The kids use the letter to make a hat. Cicero's hands are nailed to the Senate door.
Another hitlist arrives from Marcus Antonius. Agrippa is fretful—they've killed 1,000 men already. Maecenas says they need money. Octavian agrees with Agrippa, who asks for a leave to get some air. Octavia approaches him and asks about his day. Agrippa says his work isn't pleasant but is necessary and tries to avoid her. Octavia is offended that he's avoiding her. He says he doesn't have a drop of good blood in him and isn't worthy of her attention. Now she is offended. He kneels to apologize and she kisses him as Maecenas comes out and asks for the blasted tax projection figures.
Jews discuss bribing the master of Rome so that Herod can be recognized as a king of Judea. Levy starts talking trash and spits the council leader in the face, signaling to his men to come in and start the brawl, which is like something out of the best Western movies. Lucius Vorenus is dishing out food to the people. Titus Pullo laments not being able to fight again, saying that violence is the only thing he knows.
A blind man announces the second hour as Agrippa is plowing Octavia in then-equivalent of a hotel. The two shower and kiss. She is about to bawl her eyes out but pretends she's strong. Agrippa has no idea and says he's worried about her staying all alone. They kiss again, he walks out and she bawls her eyes out.
Atia tries to put some sense into Octavian as they wait for Agrippa. He starts apologizing but it's all right. Octavia runs in and apologizes too but Maecenas is smiling—he knows. They mount up without saddles and ride out. Atia asks about Agrippa and Octavia tries to deny it but there's no use. Atia says she won't be able to marry him. Jocasta runs in and says all her family is dead. Atia is cold but promises to protect her.
Titus Pullo is reminiscing as he shines his helmet. Eirene walks in. They discuss the Feast and Eirene says she doesn't mind the fish smell. Titus Pullo says he's thinking of old days but says he won't be leaving. He tries to convince her to let him go but she starts crying and says she's "preglant".
Brutus puts on his father's signet ring as he gets word of 19 legions approaching them. Cassius advises retreat but Brutus says he doesn't want to run any more. In Philippi in northern Greece, the legions get into formation. It's Cassius's birthday and he jokes with Brutus about having a cake the next year. Marcus Antonius tells Octavian to watch how history is made. Both sides advance and collide. Many wounds are inflicted but there's no telling who is who. A bit outside the battle, Marcus Antonius says his motto: "When in doubt, attack" and rushes forward. Octavian tells Agrippa to go forward as he stays behind.
Brutus is informed that his right flank is gone. Cassius is inside a testudo but his men still take a hit from an arrow volley and then rush forward. Cassius is next seen carried on a gurney to Brutus, who is informed his center is routed and they must fall back immediately. Brutus caresses Cassius and sees the advancing legions; he will not be falling back. He says to one of his generals to inform Servilia of what happened and tell her something suitable. Brutus kisses his ring and looks at the sky one last time before walking towards the advancing army with a sword drawn out and with his armor off.
He tries to attack them and cuts one by the leg before being stabbed in the back again and again, just like it happened to Caesar. Dead are put on the pyre as Marcus Antonius relishes the smell and order Cassius's head packed in salt and sent to Rome. Brutus's body hasn't been found as a scavenger cuts off a finger carrying a golden signet ring and puts it on his hand.
Servilia is holding Brutus's face mask. She is torn apart with grief and can barely whisper. She puts his mask on her face. Her lady servant tears the mask away as she weeps. Poor woman, she went through so much. The servant suggests some willow water. She doesn't want any more sleep. Dear God, she's devastated. Octavia is watching a girl getting prepped for her wedding burst into tears. Atia is exasperated and calls her "a penniless orphan". It's Livia? Atia says she knows men and this one will be a lovely husband for her. It's Jocasta and Posca. They recite their wedding vows. Marcus Antonius is again there and winks at one of the bridesmaids. Atia hints at wanting to marry him. He says it has to be the best wedding ever seen.
A voice is heard outside calling for Atia and justice. She goes out. Servilia, apparently covered in soot and with disheveled hair, is calling out for justice. Her lady servant is sprinkling her head with soot right in front of Atia's home. Where are the legionnaire guards? Atia wants to ignore her. Titus Pullo is cuddling with Eirene. She cockblocks him. She is pregnant. They are smiling and playing. She is still cockblocking him. He feels the baby moving.
Lucius Vorenus wants to use deeper berths in Ostia. We learn they have grain ships in excess of 10,000 amphorae. Memmio says those berths were reserved for oil but can be used if he gets 5% of grain but Mascius will supervise dock work. The deal is made. Vorena sees a doll dropped by one of Memmio's men and stashes it in her chest. So cute. Rain pours down on Servilia as she is still in front of Atia's house, hoarse and soaked. Marcus Antonius apologizes to Octavian for being late to get up.
Octavian is observing a large wall map of Italy. Lepidus says he has been approached by friends from the Senate, who worry the three of them intend to establish a tyranny. Marcus Antonius wants to hear their names and go look at Cicero's hands at the forum. Octavian interrupts their squabble and asks them to go down to business. They can't all rule at once and have to divide their power. Each of them should assume command of one third of Rome. Octavian hasn't considered who gets what. Lepidus says Rome isn't cabbage to get chopped up. Marcus Antonius takes a sword and cuts off a part of the map.
Octavian doesn't like that. He says in the west the Rome has only rowdy Gauls and the east is where the money is. Marcus Antonius promises divvying up all the tax revenue with his notorious smirk. Lepidus is literally given Africa. Servilia is still calling for justice. Marcus Antonius sees her and jokes on her behalf. Atia can't sleep in her home and is being driven mad. Marcus Antonius suggests Atia should go out and let herself be ranted at. Atia won't hear about it.
Carts are carting. Food is being given out to plebs. Titus Pullo shoos an old man from the food line. Eirene scolds a slave, Gaia, for not bringing in wood. She is fanning herself. Eirene threatens to hit her with a stick. The slave is unfazed. Eirene threatens her with Titus Pullo, who presents the fake food tokens to Lucius Vorenus. Memmio must have been making fake food tokens, but Lucius Vorenus doesn't want him to realize he's found out. Eirene enters and says about Gaia. He asks her what happened and she storms out. Gaia is Mascius's girl. Titus Pullo suggests Lucius Vorenus to beat Gaia up but that won't solve anything.
Titus Pullo finds Gaia alone. He has a whip. She is laughing. He says he will whip her. Gaia says Eirene is a mouse and Titus Pullo is such a lion and that anyone can see it. He asks what sort of animal that makes her. She says she can be anything he wants. She threatens him with Mascius, slaps, kicks, breaks a jug over him. He grabs her and she kisses him. He kisses back and she bites him, smashing another jug over his head. She grabs his little Titus Pullo and he chokes her. She is on the table, spreads her legs and he violently plows her. She laughs. Nicely done.
She asks if that's all he's got, so he puts some string in her mouth and plows her from behind. He whispers that this was a mistake and this never happens again. She says it's a shame and the two of them would go nicely together. She says he's got to keep her disciplined. He warns her. She tells him to relax. He says he can kill her if he wants. She says he can do anything he likes. Servilia is still wailing in front of Atia's house. Atia gives up and storms out, where the crowd is already gathered.
Atia tells Servilia to speak and be gone. Servilia starts casting a curse of some sort. She shows the devil horns and talks about bones and hills. The scene drags on. Atia's face turns sour. Servilia stabs herself in the heart and falls over. So theatrical. Her lady servants pulls out the knife and kills herself too. Octavia can't watch. Marcus Antonius says: "Now that is an exit" and summons Atia back inside.
Town crier reports about Prince Herod visiting and how all mockery of Jews and their God must be kept to a minimum. Herod asks if he must offer a bribe as a gift and Marcus Antonius says it is true. Herod wants to take the throne of Judea. Posca asks for 20,000 pounds of gold and Herod unflinchingly agrees. Marcus Antonius asks him to keep his Jews in line. Herod will. Herod wants to know if he speaks for Octavian and Lepidus and Marcus Antonius says it is so but Posca's face says otherwise. Herod seems pleased and walks out. Posca asks what his share of gold will be. Marcus Antonius plays dumb.
Taxes on olive groves and defenses against the Parthians were the topics discussed that morning. Marcus Antonius says he's become insufferably greedy after becoming free. Timon and his brother, Levy, see Herod. Levy shouts at him and says Herod should die. Maecenas has his toenails cut when Posca enters and asks for a word. Posca suggests saying something to Maecenas in confidence and he dismisses his slaves. Marcus Antonius wants to get lions that run.
Marcus Antonius sits with Octavian and Maecenas, the former of whom accuses him of not sharing gold. Maecenas says he bought one of Herod's people. Octavian accuses Marcus Antonius of exploiting the triumvirate, but he laughs and says Octavian has no accomplishments of his own. Octavian says he defeated him at Mutina. Marcus Antonius starts raging. Octavian calls him a "crude, arrogant lech". Eirene has a headache. Gaia brings her water and winks at Titus Pullo. Eirene says Gaia is a good slave now ever since Titus Pullo gave her a good beating and that he should do it every month. Titus Pullo chokes.
Vorena sneaks out. The man she lays with tells her fairy tales about having a farm with elephants and sheep. He says he loves her and they kiss. Memmio enters the room and recognizes Vorena. Memmio rages at Vorena and says she is risking everything. Memmio says he will have to tell Lucius Vorenus. Vorena says she will do anything Memmio says, as long as he doesn't reveal her secret. She is thankful.
Memmio asks Vorena to report what is happening with her dad. Maecenas, Octavian and Marcus Antonius discuss splitting their spoils in the future. They shake hands. Atia is happy they are friends again. Atia suggests a marriage. Octavian likes the idea. Marcus Antonius has no objection. Octavian says she mustn't be present and she walks away. Atia thinks she is getting married. Meanwhile, Octavia is getting plowed by Agrippa. Levy tells Timon they will have their chance to kill Herod at the wedding. Timon is getting cold feet. Levy snaps at him. It's a suicide mission.
Timon, Levy and their family are eating together. Timon is antsy. Lucius Vorenus sees Vorena rifling through his papers. She looks feverish. He asks what she needs. She says the sister needs a new dress and he gives her a few coins. She kisses him on the cheek and walks out. We hear plowing. Octavian is watching someone getting plowed. It's Atia and Marcus Antonius. She says she loves him and that they should take a break from sex for their wedding night. She prattles on. He interrupts.
Wedding. It's Octavia getting married to him. Octavian joins their hands. Everyone claps. Herod is right there, as are Agrippa and Maecenas. The bride has her hand kissed. She is flustered. Agrippa is gloomy. Maecenas comments on Atia's mood and how she seems genuinely in love. He warns Agrippa to mind his manners. Atia is fuming but can't keep her eyes of Marcus Antonius. Octavian skulks behind her and says he couldn't let her marry. She walks away speechless to her room and gasps. Marcus Antonius enters and tells her to come out and mingle. The lady servant exits.
Marcus Antonius says he still loves Atia but she is livid. Celebrations in the streets. Girls are dancing. The newlyweds are greeting the crowd. Proper celebrities. Timon and Levy approach. They see Herod. Timon sees Atia. Levy goes on but Timon won't do it; it's too much blood. Levy says he made an oath but Timon says he'll break it. Levy calls him a coward. Timon grabs him. Levy pulls out a knife, they struggle and Timon stabs him in the gut. Levy says he isn't his brother as he collapses.
Marcus Antonius and Octavia are laying in bed. He asks her to turn over so he can assume doggy style. He spits on his bellend and commences plowing. Atia remembers the curse. She should have interrupted it. Gaia visits a witch and asks for two herbs. They are for? The problem is over if drank before bed; if put in willow tea, there won't be any taste. Sure.... Gaia pays and walks out.
Octavian holds a speech. He praises the women of Rome. He's speaking to a room full of women. He thanks them. They clap. He promises their virtue will be rewarded through laws that punish vice. Maecenas coyly congratulates him on lying so well. Octavain says he meant every word of it. They see a girl. She has a son, Tiberius. Octavian asks to be introduced. Alfidia and her daughter, Livia. Octavian asks Livia to marry him. Alfidia is floored and Livia is speechless. The matter is settled. We learn Herod's gold is at Ostia waiting on the high tide. Octavian wants complete deniability.
Timon and his family are moving out to Jerusalem. His wife compliments him. Posca is buying presents for Jocasta, his wife. He sees a litter and enters it. Maecenas is in there with a hookah. He asks Posca about the shipment, who is fretful talking about the gold in front of slaves. The two want to shortchange the shipment and steal some gold. Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo discuss the shipment. They will take it by road. Secrecy is essential. The second officer, Mascius, is salty because Titus Pullo gets to handle the shipment. One of the women serves Eirene a tea. The camera lingers on it. It's poisoned, isn't it? Titus Pullo screaming in the night, his dick flopping. Eirene is bleeding.
A witch is "curing" Eirene by spitting on her. Eirene asks to be buried, not burned. She wants a black shroud and no trees, just open field. Titus Pullo is in denial. Eirene asks if the baby was a boy or girl; a boy. She asks the baby buried with her. Poor Titus Pullo. Eirene dies. How? She just stops talking. The witch mumbles something.
The assassin is watching Titus Pullo as he carries Eirene out. He buries her in an open field, wrapped in a black shroud. He prays to her god. So sad for him. He'll never have a family. What can you do, living in the slums amidst thieves and murderers. The shipment is going out. Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus are sitting in when they hear there's trouble. Mascius is hurt. The shipment was ambushed. The gold is gone. Why didn't the two of go with the shipment? Makes no sense. Mascius says they were waiting for them.
Lucius Vorenus sends out men to find out what happened. He reports to Octavian, Maecenas, Posca and Marcus Antonius. Maecenas starts flinging accusations. Marcus Antonius threatens him to bring their property back. Lucius Vorenus is cool as a cucumber. Lepidus claim it was Gauls. Nobody believes him. Maecenas accuses Posca of stealing the shipment with Marcus Antonius. Lucius Vorenus enters an establishment where a woman is being plowed by a couple men. He meets Memmio and asks about his property. They deny stealing anything.
Lucius Vorenus asks if they know anything about it. Memmio says it's almost always someone close. Lucius Vorenus storms out. Memmio rallies his men. Octavian is unfazed. Maecanas is fuming and wants Octavian to react, who caves. Maecenas says Marcus Antonius has a sham marriage with Octavia and is sleeping with Atia, who is avoiding him. Octavian summons Atia to a dinner.
Memmio wants to put an end to Lucius Vorenus's arrogance. He summons other captains, who think he stole the gold. Memmio says he didn't but then showers them with gold coins. They squabble over coins and laugh like kids. Octavian is talking to Livia and says he will beat her on occasion because it gives him sexual pleasure. She is ready and willing. They stare at each other. He thinks they will get along well. The feast is ready.
Atia meets Livia and welcomes her to the family. Octavia calls marrying slavery. Octavian says he is the master of this family. Marcus Antonius protects her. A beating is in order. Agrippa says he loves Octavia. Octavian threatens Marcus Antonius to leave Rome and never return. He grabs Octavian by the throat but soon lets go. Octavian dares him to strike. He pulls back and storms out. Octavia excuses herself and tries to leave alongside Atia. Octavian orders Maecenas to take them home and put them under guard.
Agrippa says he seduced Octavia but Octavian doesn't believe him. Agrippa is needed so he won't be killed or banished. He is thankful. Octavian discharges him and sits next to Livia, who eats a stuffed songbird. Titus Pullo hasn't eaten nor drank water in two days. They suspect Memmio. Titus Pullo says it must have been Mascius. The two go and visit him. He says he was lucky. They interrogate him. We learn Titus Pullo didn't go with the shipment because he was in pain due to Eirene's death. Titus Pullo is about to kill him.
Mascius says he saved Titus Pullo's life at Gergovia. Lucius Vorenus is playing with a toy from his son. He figures out he saw something like it in Memmio's collegium. He storms his daughter's room and starts rummaging. She is freaked out. He finds a box filled with toys of the same kind. She says she bought them. He realizes one of Memmio's men gave them to her. She betrayed him?! She says he loves her. She says she was glad to betray him. He is fuming and asks why. She accuses him of killing Niobe and wishes him dead. He slaps her and pulls a knife at her.
The daughter again accuses Lucius Vorenus of killing Niobe. He chokes her and slams her against the wall. Titus Pullo again tries reasoning with him and he lets his daughter go. If I were Lucius Vorenus, I'd be talking to her and trying to let her know what happened to Niobe (she fell off the railing). The town crier tells us Marcus Antonius is hastily leaving the city. We see him sullen with lictors. Legionnaires stop him but he doesn't want to use force to enter Octavian's house. He screams for Atia. Doors creak open and she runs out. Legionnaires stop her. He calms her down and just wants to talk to her in private. He stares down the centurion, who yields and lets them talk.
He says he's leaving tomorrow. She sighs and coldly tells him goodbye. He promises to send for her. She is exasperated and wants a promise. He does, on his life. He kisses her hand and she skulks back inside. He turns around and walks away. Posca is burning documents as Marcus Antonius is indignant. Lucius Vorenus enters and says Titus Pullo will retrieve it. Lucius Vorenus resigned from the collegium. Marcus Antonius is not happy. Lucius Vorenus wants to go to Egypt. This does not go well with Marcus Antonius but he yields and agrees. He needs good men but expects a stoic type like Lucius Vorenus to turn to drink when disappointed in life.
Titus Pullo waits for him outside. He wants to mend the ties and says Vorena has his blood in her. Lucius Vorenus has a message for his kids: he tried. Titus Pullo smiles, shakes his head and they hug. Legionnaires are holding guard in front of Atia's home. Octavia is ripping up flowers. She has nothing better to do. Atia asks her to go to the kitchen and find something to amuse her. It's a man, isn't it? Agrippa! They kiss passionately. Atia got him inside. Octavia wants them to run away to the east. He is on the verge of tears and says Octavian has forgiven him but has total control over their lives.
Octavia is stunned. He is here to say goodbye. He wants to have a formal and correct relationship. She calls him a coward and insults him one last time: she is having a baby. She won't tell who's the father. Atia is consoling her. An eagle is eating. Plebs are moving goods in the slums. Suddenly, they clear out. A storm is brewing. Memmio. The collegiums are about to start a fight. Titus Pullo is there too with Mascius. Memmio calls for a parley and says he has no quarrel with him. Memmio says Lucius Vorenus started the trouble and the two of them can do business.
Memmio walks up to him. They shake hands by grabbing forearms. Memmio smiles but Titus Pullo headbutts him and bites his tongue off (!), grabs a two-sided axe, shouts "13!" and throws it at a man. A fight ensues. I think Titus Pullo's side is winning. Memmio's side is fleeing. Alexandria, Egypt. Legionnaires are walking through the gates. Show theme is playing with an Egyptian mood. A boy is on the throne as Marcus Antonius walks in. A girl is trying to seduce him. She is barely clothed. He likes it. Cleopatra.
Lucius Vorenus is in his bed. So, he did survive. He wakes up Niobe. What?????????????? The woman talks in Egyptian and we see it is a whore. She accuses him of taking the blanket again and that should cost extra. He dresses up and walks out. Crowd politely makes way for him. Port. Camels. He enters the palace. Posca is inside, smoking a nargilla. Marcus Antonius is in the throne room talking to the Senate delegation. Marcus Antonius is showing Cleopatra how to shoot a deer on a person on all fours wearing a deer skin and pretending to drink. Marcus Antonius fires a blunt bolt at the "animal" and the crowd claps.
The Senator speaks and they both shush him. Cleopatra misses. The Senator says the payment for the grain will be double if it is delivered by the end of the month. Cleopatra asks for the triple price. The Senator agrees. Cleopatra asks for Carthage. Senator says this is possible. Marcus Antonius says nobody loves Octavian and quickly adds that he wants Spain too. Senator protests. Cleopatra kills the man in the deer skin with a real arrow. The crowd claps.
Marcus Antonius wants Octavian to declare war. In their chambers, Cleopatra lays on top of him and says he should declare war on Octavian instead of waiting. Two kids run in and Cleopatra shoos them out. Gaia is caressing Titus Pullo's back with her feet. The crowd outside is going mad. He calls her a cold-hearted bitch and says he would trade her for a horse. They kiss. He strokes her breast. We see her breast. Outside, the crowd swarms Titus Pullo as he pushes through. They are hungry. One man shouts "GRAIN". OK, we got it, they need grain. Titus Pullo climbs a tower and says the day's ration has been given. The crowd boos him.
Titus Pullo knows they are hungry but they are alive. If he opens the granaries, they will simply starve tomorrow. They grumble but obey him and disperse. Titus Pullo sends the kids away and talks to Mascius. They are in the granary. They have 10 days of grain at 1/4 ration. The bakers' guild offered them 600 for a sack. Inside the cage, Titus Pullo is feeding Memmio. Titus Pullo is feeding him so others know to stay honest. Memmio appears and acts like a wild animal.
Titus Pullo reports to Octavian. Maecenas says the plebs should eat the dogs but Titus Pullo says it's already been done. Agrippa says this is no moment for wit. Octavian says he has no more wheat to give out. Agrippa says to send three legions to Africa so Lepidus feeds them, which would give the city more food for a month. Octavian wants to know what the people are saying. Titus Pullo says they blame Octavian for the famine, thinking him cold and heartless.
Titus Pullo walks out. The three discuss Marcus Antonius and how he plans to starve Rome. Agrippa suggests declaring a war. Octavian sends for Atia and Octavia. Atia is on the roof when a kid approaches her. Her granddaughter, Antonia. Octavia is looking for her and scolds her. No letters for Atia today. She had a feeling there will be a letter today. Octavia tries talking sense into her. Castor informs them they are summoned to a dinner. Family and friends are there. Awkward silence. Octavian asks her sister for a favor. He wants Octavia to ask Marcus Antonius in Egypt for the grain. She thinks he is joking but he can't remember the last time he joked. Livia says she does remember but Octavian cuts her off.
Atia has no desire for a long sea voyage. Atia asks to be paid for their trouble. Octavian asks her to name her price. Atia wants a villa in Capri. Octavia would like a villa as well. They will take cash and decide later. The town crier will announce their departure. Octavian is plowing Livia, who slaps him. Twice. We see his naked buttocks and her breasts. He resumes plowing. Nice abs he has. She is choking him and his little Octavian. He gasps. All right. More breasts. She says she likes birds but doesn't like eggs, there is something sordid about them. They won't serve eggs anymore.
Livia asks why he is sending the two women to Egypt. She reasons that Marcus Antonius turning down his beloved wife will make the people think he has been bewitched and won't blame Octavian for the famine. Livia calls him a clever boy. He says good night and turns over, though we see it's daytime. At sea, Atia is pacing. Octavia is panting and seasick. Atia asks if she's changed since Marcus Antonius last saw her. Octavia says he's likely to fall into her arms. A woman vomits in the background and Octavia is about to retch as well. They have arrived. Caesarion is throwing balls at a eunuch, who cowers and shrieks when struck by a ball.
The kid throws a ball at Lucius Vorenus, who hits him with it. They play ball. Lucius Vorenus tells him about his father: he was a good man, good to have as a friend, a nasty temper when roused, bravest man he'd ever known, fine horseman, bad gambler, liked women, liked to eat. Posca runs in, wearing an earring. He informs Marcus Antonius and Cleopatra that Atia and Octavia have arrived.
Marcus Antonius has a chest tattoo. He realizes Octavian set this ploy into action. Cleopatra says he has to refuse her. Marcus Antonius says that turning her away will give Octavian causus belli, a pretense for war. Cleopatra says they will throw a nice party for them and they should be hospitable. Marcus Antonius says she would love playing the queen and Cleopatra says (say it with me):
I am the queen.
She says that would stop her pining for him. Marcus Antonius says he no longer loves Atia but thinks she doesn't deserve a public humiliation. They discuss the matter a lot more. All right, we got it. Please move on. Cleopatra suggests killing them. Marcus Antonius doesn't want it. Cleopatra says their ship could be said to have sank on their way home. Cleopatra calls him a coward and throws an urn 20 feet off of Marcus Antonius. Atia and Octavia are carried through Alexandria. Atia calls it a ghastly place. Octavia says it is big, though. Atia says Ptolemies were originally goatherds.
Inside, the two are still fighting as the women are waiting outside. Atia says this is rude. Octavia says this heat is unbearable. Atia says they will stay there. Jocasta is there. She converses with Atia and Octavia about the customs. Atia orders Jocasta to introduce them to the court. Posca exits. He tries pushing Jocasta inside and does so. He thanks confused Atia, who thinks they've all gone insane. Inside, a plowing session between Marcus Antonius and Cleopatra.
The women are barely tolerating the heat. Cleopatra and Marcus Antonius are cuddling. She says this palace life is no good for him and he will be happier when the war begins. Lucius Vorenus is given a delicate mission. He exits to inform Atia and Octavia they are to be escorted to their ship and leave Alexandria as soon as the wind allows. Atia thinks Marcus Antonius wouldn't stoop so low but he says it was indeed him. Atia doesn't want to go away.
Lucius Vorenus says he will use any force necessary to remove them but he won't touch them. Black slaves step forward with blades. Atia tries going past Lucius Vorenus but he won't budge. She slaps him. Still nothing. Atia weeps and walks away. Octavia says that Marcus Antonius is cowardly scum. Atia is briskly pacing to her ship. What was the point of all this. Posca and Jocasta are packing. Lucius Vorenus sees them. Jocasta begs him not to tell. Posca says they are merely taking a stroll in the harbor. Lucius Vorenus says then they should hurry while the winds are still favorable.
Lucius Vorenus says he has to stay and to say Titus Pullo to kiss his children for him. Posca and Jocasta leave penniless. What a bunch of idiots, they should have prepared for the flight. Posca and Jocasta enter the ship. Atia and Octavia are confused. Inside the court, Marcus Antonius learns Atia and Octavia are gone. He asks if they took it well. Lucius Vorenus says no. Posca is missing. Lucius Vorenus tells him that Octavia told him he is cowardly scum.
Lucius Vorenus says he isn't a coward but he does have a disease in his soul that will eat away at him until he dies. Marcus Antonius asks if he knows the name of this disease. Lucius Vorenus says he recognizes the symptoms because he has the same sickness. Octavian is slapped by Atia. He says: "Hello, mother". Atia accuses Octavian of knowing what would happen. He says she can now have her villa in Capri. Posca brought something that will help destroy Marcus Antonius: the last will and testament of him and Cleopatra. Posca says this is a genuine document that would make the Roman people hate Marcus Antonius as an enemy of Rome. Maecenas reads:
The town crier reads the news. Octavian is in front of the Senate, apparently lamenting Marcus Antonius's descent to madness. Octavian wants to destroy him and the Senate applauds. Afterwards, Titus Pullo, Posca and Octavian talk in the empty Senate. They discuss Lucius Vorenus. Octavian asks Titus Pullo to come with him as a mediator. Octavian says Caesarion will have to die.
Titus Pullo announces he will be going out. Lyde will be taking care of them. The kids are not really overjoyed. They won't accept a kiss. They says Lucius Vorenus killed Niobe. NO HE DID NOT! Wow. Lucius Vorenus is staring into nothingness. Titus Pullo sets down the rules and says Mascius will be in charge. We see Memmio is there. Gaia says she should come with. He won't hear about it.
Titus Pullo goes to get some vinegar. He hears or sees something and grabs a blade. Memmio is gone? How? What the hell. He hits Titus Pullo over the shoulder with a spatula and he falls down. Memmio grabs his blade and slaps to wake him so he can see his death when Gaia rushes in and gets stabbed in the gut. They fight. She gets stabbed again but then kills him with an empty wine cup (??????). She is bleeding. Titus Pullo says this isn't happening. Not again. Wow. They talk. She is going to die, isn't she? Gaia says Eirene was a good woman.
Titus Pullo says they are happy enough. Gaia says she's sorry and that she has to confess or Nemesis won't let her rest. She says to send the people away and he does. She says she did everything out of love for him. She confesses to killing Eirene and his kid through poison. His face goes blank. Stupid whore. Karma is a bitch.
He strangles her. She says: "Goodbye, love". She is dead. He carries her outside. People watch aghast. He dumps her in the pond. What? She will just float there? Putrid corpse.
Burning wrecks at sea. People rowing in a boat. Lucius Vorenus squeezes past people and orders one man tossed overboard. Marcus Antonius is absentmindedly staring at the sea. Lucius Vorenus provides him with water. He thanks him and drinks, saying he was fearful of defeat but now that it has come it's not near as terrible as he expected. The town crier reads the news: Octavian won over Cleopatra and Marcus Antonius. The crowd cheers. Vorena and Lyde listen to the news and walk away. Women at Atia's discuss what happened and lambast Marcus Antonius. Octavia defends him.
Women gloat at the squabble. Atia speaks to herself that she is to blame. Marcus Antonius offers to withdraw himself from public life but Octavian demands unconditional surrender. Octavian asks if there is a way to influence Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo sends a personal message: he hopes his child is well. A chair is lowered and a soldier is pulled up into the structure. An orgy. A welcome sight, to be sure. The soldier moves across the bodies and finds Cleopatra with Marcus Antonius baked out of his mind. Cleopatra calms him when he hears the news.
He rages but she calms him down. Cleopatra suggests escaping at night by disguise and going south. Marcus Antonius says he cannot run. She says she will follow whatever path he suggests and he says death. She suggests a ruse but he says he's a soldier, not a magician. He says they have an army of whores and that's all they have left. Lucius Vorenus hears the private message from Titus Pullo. The messenger suggests Lucius Vorenus is guaranteed safety if he opens the palace gates. Marcus Antonius sends the messenger to challenge Octavian to single combat. His vision is blurred. Cleopatra is torn to shreds. The messenger runs out.
Marcus Antonius orders Lucius Vorenus to fetch some weapons so they practice. He moves and meets Caesarion, who knows he will be killed. Lucius Vorenus tells him to come with to armory. Octavian hears the proposal and chuckles. The messenger seems exasperated. Agrippa suggests a siege but Octavian says it could take months. Maecenas suggests burning it down but Octavian wants to avoid a riot. The messenger delivers a message to a child and suggests it brought to Cleopatra. Marcus Antonius is barely standing on his feet. One of the slaves laughs and Marcus Antonius is insulted but then starts dancing, orders the slave to stand up and get a sword and shield.
The slave tries weaseling out but Marcus Antonius orders him to stand and fight. The slave is pathetic and falls after one shove. The crowd laughs as the slave cuts Marcus Antonius by accident and he violently kills him. The slave's final words are: "Really, sir, I must protest". That was funny. The slave falls, the crowd claps and Marcus Antonius is overjoyed. The messenger says Octavian has respectfully refused the challenge and will engage fire and siege works tomorrow. Marcus Antonius tells him to shove his terms up his behind and calls Octavian a coward.
He is furious at the crowd and throws food at them. He orders music and calls Lucius Vorenus with to drink with him. Lucius Vorenus drinks bottoms up. Marcus Antonius says that's how a real man thinks. Octavian's letter to Cleopatra holds a promise that she merely betray Marcus Antonius and she can keep the crown. She can't do it and is bawling her eyes out. Her servant lady advises her to accept. Marcus Antonius walks in and the slave hides the letter. He sees she has been crying. She lashes out and he is stung. He says it's true that he's become despicable. She says these years together were the happiest of her life.
Marcus Antonius says Octavian will burn the palace tomorrow and they must end this right now. He suggests doing it right now. She wants it to happen tomorrow in the sunlight. She is tired but tells him to go out to their guests. He kisses her on the nose and walks out. Lucius Vorenus and Marcus Antonius reminisce about past fights. They are losing their minds slowly. They talks about an afterlife. Lucius Vorenus says of course it exists. Marcus Antonius mentions Greeks dispute it and Lucius Vorenus says they talk a whole pile of nonsense.
Outside, legionnaires. Marcus Antonius is woken up by the lady servant bloodied. She shows him a message by Cleopatra wrapped around a bloody knife, stating she killed herself and asking him to come quickly. Didn't she die through cobra bite? Marcus Antonius weeps and goes into fetal position. This is harrowing. Lucius Vorenus is standing by and silently watching. Marcus Antonius asks why she didn't wait for him and the lady servant said it is a custom that the queen dies alone but with her last breath she called his name. He dismisses her, takes the knife she brought in and... looks at it before throwing it away. He wants to use a proper Roman sword. Lucius Vorenus gives him his.
Marcus Antonius says this is a better place to die than a ditch in Gaul. So many great men stood here. Marcus Antonius says: "I enter the end" and tells him to get out while he can. Lucius Vorenus says it's been an honor serving with him. Marcus Antonius asks him to hold the sword, pushes his chest against it and asks Lucius to tell people he died well, that he died Roman. Doesn't look like it. Marcus Antonius pushes himself against the sword and hugs Lucius Vorenus. What a sad exit. Lucius Vorenus washes his face and dresses him in legionnaire garb. Cleopatra enters???? Why was Marcus Antonius tricked into killing himself? She steps up to his upright corpse and kisses him on the lips.
Cleopatra orders children brought to. Lucius Vorenus is staring at her, she orders him to stop but he won't. He shouts at her. She said he should have killed himself. Lucius Vorenus tells her how it is: Octavian will kill Caesarion and parade her through the Roman Forum. Lucius Vorenus threatens to reveal the real father of Caesarion. Cleopatra taunts him and Lucius Vorenus says he will bring the child to Titus Pullo. Cleopatra shows her children how Marcus Antonius died—by his own hand. She orders Caesarion leave with Lucius Vorenus.
Lucius Vorenus brought Caesarion out. Legionnaires enter the palace. Octavian is there, and Agrippa and Maecenas too. He expresses condolences. Cleopatra thanks him coldly and says she was so scared but now she sees he is a good and honest man. Octavian says Caesarion is no threat to him. Cleopatra says she is Egypt and Octavian agrees. She is content and they shall be good friends. Octavian asks for one favor: she should come to Rome, and she agrees to go there next summer. Octavian says his ship is large is comfortable.
Cleopatra says traveling so soon would offend the priests. Octavian insists that they must go tomorrow and she should bring her children. She enters her chambers a nervous wreck. Her maids are after her. She is on all fours and enters the room with Marcus Antonius inside. She orders the doors closed and is still weeping. She apologizes to the corpse and grabs its hand. She says she was hungry to live but now sees Octavian is a monster and will do with her exactly as Lucius Vorenus said. She sits in his lap and puts his hand on her shoulder. She lied to him for nothing.
Cleopatra orders the old woman brought. Octavian's tent. Agrippa shakes his fist: they should have taken her then and there. Octavian says it's better she come along of her own will, it makes the breaking of pride so much better. Agrippa suggests she might kill herself. Octavian doesn't believe it and thinks he was charming. The old woman takes out a red flask, it's belladonna, which isn't fast but is the least painful. Cleopatra knows. She is sitting next to her lover.
Cleopatra wants no bloating or discoloration. The old woman suggests the snake and Cleopatra agrees. The old woman takes out the snake out of her casket and Cleopatra takes it next to her face. She comments that it doesn't look like much. The old woman suggests letting her bite on the wrist or breast. Cleopatra orders the lady servant ensure the children are safe before she follows her. The snake bites Cleopatra on the breast and she says she feels nothing but then gasps. The old woman says it goes away toward the end. Cleopatra is orgasming. Legionnaires are rushing inside the palace. Titus Pullo is there too.
Cleopatra is dying. Defiant to the very end. Gasping for breath. Octavian approaches her. She stands up and says: "You have a rotten soul". She is trembling and gasping. She sits down, grabs the hand of Marcus Antonius, throws her head back and exhales one last time. Agrippa asks what she said and Octavian says it. He takes their hands apart and orders children found. Titus Pullo secretly snags a picture of something. Octavian has a headache as he realizes Caesarion escaped with Lucius Vorenus.
Titus Pullo pretends he has no idea where they went. Octavian says he could still forgive Lucius Vorenus. Titus Pullo suggests going out to find Lucius Vorenus and Octavian agrees. Caesarion is sitting with Lucius Vorenus in the desert and promises him a province and any woman he wants. Lucius Vorenus builds a fire and they bivouac there. Sounds in the night. Someone is approaching. Titus Pullo! They greet and hug. Caesarion doesn't like Titus Pullo's demeanor, but he says Cleopatra died the right, honorable way. The boy is angry, refuses touch and is about to storm off into the night but returns and sits next to the fire, sobbing in his bosom.
Titus Pullo draws the position of all 10 legions. They have to go south. Lucius Vorenus says he will give him plenty of gold from that Cleopatra gave him. They will apparently split up. Titus Pullo explains about how Lucius Vorenus's kids are doing. Vorena the Younger is a little tiger that practically runs the tavern. Lucius Vorenus asks about Gaia; it didn't end so well. Titus Pullo says it is a long story. The two kids are brought to Atia's house. Octavian arrived. He says Marcus Antonius is dead. Atia takes it well, props herself up and says Octavian is not as good as king now. She offers him refreshments and water.
Octavian says he's glad she isn't grieving. She walks out. He introduces Helios and Selene, the kids, to Octavia. He offers Octavia to take care of them. She says there is no end to his cleverness and asks about Caesarion. Titus Pullo retells his fight with Memmio. They are on a cart and reach a checkpoint. Titus Pullo wants a fight but Lucius Vorenus says to keep quiet. Titus Pullo says they were out there hunting sphinxes but Lucius Vorenus quickly adds they are grain merchants who got lost. The soldier asks the kid for his name and he says "Aeneas". The soldier lets them through but then speaks Egyptian and addresses the boy directly. The boy responds and a fight ensues.
Lucius Vorenus dual wields swords but gets stabbed in the back. He and Titus Pullo tag team soldiers and pick them off one by one. The fight ends. Lucius Vorenus is hurt and can barely stand. Titus Pullo hugs him but he then falls over. Titus Pullo sees he's bleeding a lot and it will only take a couple days of rest. Lucius Vorenus doesn't want to die in this "fucking shithole" and wants to see his children before death. Such a sad ending for such a great character. One month later. Octavian's estate. Atia is sullen and hasn't chosen a dress yet.
Atia isn't going. She isn't feeling well. She smoked up her room. Octavia says she should be happy because it's Octavian's triumph as much as hers. They bond. Town crier narrates about the triumph. Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus arrived just as the triumph is announced. Titus Pullo reaches the collegium and says to Lucius Vorenus's children to tend to their father, introducing Caesarion as Aeneas. Why not hire a doctor in Egypt? They had tons of gold. Lyde tends to his wounds. He's coughing, which means he is about to die, I guess.
So, Lucius Vorenus is exiting the show too. Vorena is watching her dad struggle breathing. Titus Pullo talks about the parade. Vorena enters the room and kisses him on the cheek. Murmur. A room full of ladies. Atia isn't attending. Livia and Octavia are subtly mocking one another. Atia appears. Livia puts her down. Atia puts HER down. Octavia is barely containing her smile. Atia says Livia should go look at other women who tried destroying her. Exeunt.
The crowd is cheering. Many flags and placards with Octavian's face. Soldiers march. More cheering. Horses neigh. Old women throw petals. Palm fronds are being waved. The crowd chants "Caesar". Octavian holds the procession and comes off his chariot. Legionnaires march. Octavian climbs up on the stage and sits next to Livia. The parade goes on. Agrippa throws a glance at Octavia. Atia throws a glance at Octavian.
Titus Pullo talks to Octavian after the parade. They shake hands. It's been a long road they have traveled together. Titus Pullo says Caesarion is dead and he killed him in the desert. He cut his throat and cut off his head but it went bad. Lucius Vorenus died, or so Titus Pullo said. Octavian offers him a reward. Caesarion says:
Brother Osiris, let me live to spit in his face and remind him of this day. It is my sacred duty. By my blood, I will not rest until I avenge my mother and redeem my father's name.
Titus Pullo interrupts him and mentions there is something about his father he has to tell him. THE END
Wow, this was an ordeal. Directing throughout the series largely saps all the emotional buildup created by the events. For example, Episode 13 (the first one in the second season) opens up showing Caesar is dead. The protagonist of our series is gone, brutally slain in the Senate, but instead of lingering on it so we can absorb the shock, the show immediately switches over to a chase where Marcus Antonius flees assassins and then cuts to Brutus coming home and talking to Servilia. We have drama, action and drama again, all in the span of a minute or so.
The first 5-6 episodes of the series were the best, the rest of season 1 suffers a bit and then season 2 picks up the pace. After Pompey and Cato die, Caesar has no real enemies left except Brutus and Cicero, both of which are timid, frail men. This makes it so that the story now focuses on Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo, who are simply not as interesting as civilians. Titus Pullo even reflects on this very fact later on, as he says he's only a soldier and no good as a civilian. I know, Pullo, I know.
Frankly, both Titus Pullo and Lucius Vorenus should have been moved someplace else, perhaps to Gaul aka. France or Illyria aka. Balkans so they have an excuse to fight and do manly things. As it stood in the show, they were living in such wretched conditions and were so removed from the action that they might have as well been on the surface of the Moon, not in Rome. If it hadn't been for the plot contrivance where they always played a prominent role in the fate of Rome, their lives would have been supremely boring.
Erastes Fulmen, a violent but also principled man, is set up to be the perfect villain for Lucius Vorenus, but the show kills him off in 2 seconds. Such an interesting character but it's like the show producers said "we're running out of money, cut this guy loose, oh and the child actors too". Octavia is also whittled down to a mere background prop. In one episode, I believe 13th, she has a single line: "I think this salad doesn't have enough figs".
Season 2 has some nice details that made me chuckle, such as seeing how Posca and Marcus Antonius were changed by their stay in Egypt: Posca wears an earring and Marcus Antonius has a tattoo and wears makeup.