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The film begins with a shot of a rocky outcrop, shaped like a human head, apparently gazing out over the Carpathian Mountains. A voice-over explains that the expansion of Roman power is beginning to threaten the borders of the kingdom of Dacia under its “enigmatic“ ruler Burebista. The high priest Deceneus convinces the Dacian lords to swear allegiance to Burebista as king of a unified Dacia. He promises to keep Dacia free from the increasing power of Rome. A rigorous regime of military training is introduced by the king. Some refugees from Rome arrive, including Calopor, a former gladiator who had served with Spartacus. Burebista welcomes them, asking Calopor to tell him about Spartacus’ exploits. Burebista also learns about the ambition of the young Julius Caesar, and his rivalry with Pompey. Messengers from Mithridates VI of Pontus and from Greece arrive to ask Burebista’s help in resisting the advance of Roman forces. Burebista agrees to help. Calopor is sent to assess
