The Foot of the Alps

For the first time since the revolt began, no Roman army blocks the road ahead. Just open ground, then the Alps, rising white at the edge of the world these people know. Cross over, and most of this army — escaped slaves and gladiators, tens of thousands strong — stops being an army. It becomes what it was before: free people, scattered to their old homes.

The camp is arguing in three languages at once. Many say the plan was always to get home, not to fight Rome forever — cross now, while the mountain passes are still open. Others say running now, the moment freedom is finally close, is just slavery with extra steps. If this army ever meant something, it doesn't get to disappear into the mountains right when it's winning. It should turn back and make Rome pay for every person it ever owned.

The mountains don't care which way this goes. They just won't wait.