Having won 100 denari each through Stylax's betting on a chariot race, he and Marcus have very different ideas on how to spend the money. Marcus, naturally, wants to spend it on Cynthia, whilst Stylax prefers a more laddish approach.

Surprisingly, Aurelius is getting married. Even more surprisingly, he invites his "best mate" Marcus to be his best man. Reluctant to say the least, Marcus plans a night on the cheap, avoiding the hottest club in town.

Grumio falls ill after eating an apple on the loo. Marcus refuses to pay for his medical treatment preferring instead to go with Cynthia's remedy of candlelight and prayer. Stylax strikes up a rapport with a rich nobleman Gaius who agrees to fund his charioteering career

The boys buy an eccentric slave called Mushki at an auction. Grumio finds his position in the household gradually usurped as the new guy impresses Marcus. Stylax, however, has a sneaking suspicion that Mushki might be a psychopath.

The local elections arrive, so Marcus and Stylax sign up as hired clappers for wig-wearing politician Victor of the Gracchii. Grumio, however, is drawn towards another candidate named Julius Priscus. Could it simply be because he is giving away free promotional plums?

The boys bump into old school friend Fabianus, who is now a hot shot lawyer. Through him, Stylax reconnects with old flame Cordelia.

Marcus and Stylax try to raise 3,000 denarii to avoid the girls being deported. Grumio visits Landlord in prison through a sewage pipe.