Chapter 250: Revolution

Chapter 250: Revolution

< 250. Revolution >

I thought I did what I had to do back then. Even if they were my close friends, I couldnt condone their misguided actions Thats what I believed. It wasnt betrayal. I repeated to myself hundreds of times that I was doing the right thing.

Youre right. I remember telling you that several times. You also believed that, didnt you? Thats why you acted so convincingly that day. I wasnt there, so I dont know, but Marcus told me that even he was almost fooled by your performance.

Brutuss face darkened more and more.

It seemed like they realized right away that I had betrayed them. I tried to hold them back, but I cant deny the fact that my push led them to their doom. Because its true.

Thats normal.

Octavius said casually, laying out some snacks.

You dont call it betrayal when you expose a serious crime. Rather, its something to be praised for.

But Cassius trusted me as his family and told me his plan. And I told you about it.

I think it was a heroic act. Even if youre close friends, you have to stop them if they go down the wrong path. It was a decision worthy of Brutuss bloodline.

Octaviuss continuous compliments brought back some life to Brutuss dying face.

Uncle Cato and the others were furious that I was unfairly labeled as a traitor. They didnt seem to think that I would do anything to benefit Caesar, even if the assassination was wrong.

Theres no need to reveal that. Considering the public opinion against the assassins is at its worst right now, it doesnt matter, but its not a good idea to openly show it either.

I think so too. The citizens might praise me, but the aristocrats dont seem to look kindly on me.

He seemed to have regained his composure completely, but he still looked pale.

Marcus also thinks highly of your decision. Your actions were not for Caesar, but for Romes future. So dont worry too much.

Thank you for saying that. Im glad I talked to you. Then is the plan going as planned?

Of course. Youll probably see the reforms start by next month at the latest.

I gave up all my friends who I thought were friends because I trusted you. Please show me that my choice was not wrong.

I wont ask you to trust me. Showing you with actions is a better way to gain your confidence than saying a hundred words.

Octavius answered with a cheerful voice.

There was no lie in his face or eyes.

Brutus suddenly realized that he was looking at the young man with the eyes of an old politician who had seen it all.

He didnt know why he often forgot, but this person in front of him was twenty years younger than him.

He was smart and intellectual, no doubt, but he was still a novice in politics with no experience.

If he was lying, he would have been caught long ago.

I must have been too sensitive because of all the things that happened lately.

Brutus decided to bury his memories of his old friends in the back of his mind.

It was a pity that they left the world, but he didnt regret his choice.

The stories he heard at Marcuss mansion were shocking enough.

What is true republicanism?

The question Marcus posed kept spinning in Brutuss head endlessly.

He was sure that republicanism was the way Rome should go.

It was his political belief and also something that boosted his self-esteem.

But he felt the need to think about what kind of republicanism was truly ideal.

Was it better to stick to the current system as it was, or to move on to a more advanced form of government?

Various questions followed one after another.

Democracy like Greece was nothing but an illusion, as historical facts proved.

Greece declined and Rome chose republicanism and rose to become the master of the world.

But did that mean that Romes system was absolute and unique?

He used to be sure of that, but recently he couldnt be so sure.

Cassius dismissed Brutuss anxiety as nonsense.

Youre being too negative. Marcus will strengthen the power of the Senate like Sulla and step down cleanly.

It was a careless prediction that did not reflect at all how Sullas reform ended in a complete failure.

There was no future or hope in this assassination.

Brutus came to that conclusion just before he heard Marcuss plan.

It was a shock.

Brutus asked several times.

If this was really possible.

Marcus answered.

That it was a future that would inevitably come someday.

Brutus was completely captivated by the amazing plan and system that he had never imagined before.

He did not hesitate for long.

Brutus spilled Cassiuss plan to Octavius without any hesitation.

As a result, Cassius and the assassins met an unfortunate end, but he did not regret it.

He wanted to see Romes future promised by Marcus with his own eyes.

They said it might be a future that would not come while they were alive, but he did not care.

Even if he could not see it himself, it was enough to be a cornerstone for that future.

That was Brutuss true heart without a trace of falsehood.

Brutus seems to have no problem.

Really? I thought he would waver a bit, but surprisingly.

He must have been fascinated by your plan, sir. To me, it looked like just another poor victim who will suffer from hard work.

Octavius smiled pleasantly and stacked up the pile of documents he received from Marcus neatly.

It was such a solid impression that Marcus coughed awkwardly and sat down in his seat.

Ahem, anyone who sees it might think Im treating people harshly.

If Septimus or Publius hear you say that, they might have a lot to say.

Thats why Brutus joining us will make them happy. Dont you think so?

I cant deny it. I cant deny the saying that other peoples misfortune is ones happiness. It might be true that humans are born with an evil nature. By the way, did you solve the problem with Caesar?

Of course.

Marcus lowered his voice slightly.

Octavius listened to the long story and maintained a calm expression as if he had expected it.

As expected, he understood. I think you can ask him to act more aggressively as a villain from now on.

Do you really think we shouldnt miss this opportunity?

Of course. You have to keep attacking when you have the reins. Thats how you can get the best results. Of course, you should avoid killing them completely, because even a mouse can bite a cat. You just have to corner them and not kill or save them, and keep attacking.

Octavius was cold and merciless to the point where Marcus stuck out his tongue.

His method was completely different from Caesar or Marcus.

If he had to compare, he was closer to Sulla, who had pierced the sky with his cruelty.

Of course, he used much more refined and meticulous methods than Sulla, so others did not feel that fact.

As I guessed, your next target is.

Yes. As you guessed, sir, its those two.

< 250. Revolution > End