"And what of Ephesus' defenses?" asked the Praefectus Primus of Troy, Marcus Aemilius Scaurus.

"They are still under construction, sir," his aide, a native of the area named Alepanos, reported calmly.

"Very well. Have we heard back from Parthia's envoy?" Scaurus asked.

"No sir. He and the Peregrinus Primus, Allectius, are still in talks."

The 'talks' had started almost immediately after Troy had received word that Rome was once again discussing war. There had been a few scares in the past, but this one seemed to be the real deal.

Fortifications had been redone in every major city - Troy/Pergamus (the city of Troy had expanded so much that the two cities were virtually one), Ephesus, Smyrna, Dardanus. The fleet had been reorganized and redistributed throughout the lands. The Army of Troy had been called up, as well as the town militia's in every place that could support one. Troy was ready for war, bristling with pili and gladii.

If Rome wanted a fight, they would receive one.

"Alepanos, go see if I may talk with the Dux," Scaurus ordered. The aide nodded and calmly made his way out of the Praefectus Primus' offices. Hopefully Scaurus could get an update on what was happening in Rome...

MAS