Please note: This is a companion version & not the original book. Sample Book Insights: #1 The boy was disgusted with himself for falling asleep and his anger turned to the soldier. How can a man like that be in the army but I can't join. #2 The boy, who was born a mute, was hoping to join the Roman army and become a burdenless soldier. However, the general told him that the army needed an execution guard, and the pay was not much. #3 The Roman method of execution was a slow and painful death. The condemned were stripped naked and nailed to a cross, with their arms stretched out. They died from the pain within hours. #4 He was often jealous of the other boys at the orphanage, who could speak freely about everything, even things that made them look foolish. He wished he could speak about his dreams and thoughts, but he couldn't.