Centurion

After wintering in Germania, Julius Quintus Quirinius is ordered to gather the surviving members of his cohort and join General Nero Claudius Drusus as Roman forces move along the Rhine. Severe weather, desertion and attacks by a newly organised tribal resistance slow the march and expose the weakened unit to enemies who understand the country better than its occupiers.

When the cohort commander is captured and taken to a fortified position, Quintus and the remaining centurions must choose between an immediate rescue and the order to reach the Alpine passes. His men respect him, but many believe another costly attack will sacrifice their last chance of returning home. Command therefore requires Quintus to risk not only his life but the loyalty on which his authority depends.