Tiberius Claudius Sabucius

• Quote

  The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few

• Activity Level

  Fast

Recent Posts

1. 

   Cerealia: A Day at the Races

   September 20

   Imperial Box - Young Things
   The advantage of the way he'd arranged the seating around him was that they could talk between groups, he simply had his age peers closest. Tiberius introduced Publius when Ovinia asked who the most recent arrival was, and gave a warm smile to the woman who settled herself not far from him; Julia Valeria. Perhaps the closest thing to a mother that he actually remembered, it was good to see her out and about. It had been too long since they'd spoken. Two more familiar faces joined the group and Tiberius returned the bow of Calpurnius Praetextatus with a respectful nod. Seeing those around him made him realise how many people amongst Rome's elite he was coming to know. It felt like a reassurance that he was doing the right things politically. Almost everyone here he could call a friend.
   Discussion fell to betting on the races. Tiberius had already expressed his opinion to Marcus, but he listened with interest since Ovinia had asked Publius and Aulus. How would the older senators respond? 
   Someone in the plebian seats screamed at the riders as they surged forwards on their horses. 
   So passionate! You think she's onto something?
   Tiberius snorted with amusement, but he regarded the racers thoughtfully. "Maybe. He's certainly holding his own against the White fellow." That was the one he'd recommended to Marcus.
   @Sara @Atrice @Jenn @Sharpie @Chevi @Insignia
   
2. 

   Safe Behind Bars

   September 20

   Who wishes to know? Am I going to get a trial?
   Tiberius glanced in the direction of sudden movement as Marcus arrived at his side. He supposed he probably should have told Marcus he'd be coming, or sent Jason since he'd slept in after the events of the night and Marcus had been gone when he'd a woken. Not a great look but he had a reason. He gave his friend a brief smile. "Yes and no, and I'm sorry for springing this on you." He added. His new role had given Marcus purpose and it showed in the way he moved and carried himself; he had a gravitas he'd lacked before. 
   Then he turned his attention back to the disheveled fellow in the cell. "Whether or not you get a trial depends on who you are." He said blandly. "Only slaves have no names, and slaves do not get trials." If this fellow wanted to play games then Tiberius would play for the moment, since he was both trying to sound the man in the cell out, and held all the good cards. He could just order the man's death. He didn't want to without cause, but he could. And he would, if he needed to. But it was one of those times when acting in the public interest and acting like a tyrant looked to his eye to be the same thing, and that made him go carefully. 
   @Atrice
   
3. 

   Cerealia: Grand Finale

   September 20

   April 77AD
   A week of celebrations had marked the Roman Empire's honouring of Ceres, goddess of agriculture, in celebration of the sprouting of the cereal crops and probability that, this year, the Empire would not starve. There had been races, feasts, parties, theatre and of course the parading and garlanding of the statue of Ceres herself, to the sound of the priests' incantations. Now it was time for the culmination of the celebrations, the great games at the Colosseum. Beginning on the evening of the last day and running into the night, the event - and the entire Colosseum - was lit by torches, lending an earie, flickering light to the events below. And, to be frank, the faces around them. At least Tiberius knew and trusted those who gathered around him.
   As per tradition, the captured foxes had been set loose, burning brands tied to their tails, to run in terror through patches of old hay in the middle of the arena, representing the gain of the upcoming harvest, setting these too alight as they brushed past them. Eventually the flames died down and those foxes who had not already died of burns were swiftly despatched by a handful of gladiators with gladii. The dead vermin were cleared away and the charred hay raked from the sand in preparation for the next spectacle. There would be the usual gladiator matches eventually, but there was something else planned first; something important.
   Once the sand was raked clear the slaves exited, leaving only one gate open into the arena. Through that gate was pushed a man, wearing no more than a loincloth. He was no famous enemy, captured on the battlefield and brought here to show the might of Rome. He was a criminal, and one who had wronged the wrong people. Most probably wouldn't even know him, but those who did might recognise the face of Marcus Barbatius, the bloody barber. The gate through which he'd been pushed closed, and for a moment the man was alone on the sands in the torchlight. 
   A grating noise signalled the opening of two other gates, but these weren't ones used by people, save on rare occasions. These ones led to the beast pens. Shapes slunk through the gates, initially visible only in silhouette, but large and undeniably feline. As they drew into the light, one showed a sandy pelt and thick mane about it's large head, whilst the other had a more orange pelt, marked with black stripes. Large eyes gleamed in the torchlight, as the gathered crowd began to stamp it's feet. 
   Tag: Any. 
   
4. 

   The night shift

   August 23

   Tiberius listened as Roscianus thought the situation through, listing potential witnesses they might be able to bring forward, each with their own pros and cons.,
   How much do we need to make sure he dies?
   The question was both complex and simple. "If the woman who witnessed him kill Atratinus will testify, and if he is not himself a Senator, that alone will be enough to condemn him to death." Tiberius said somberly. Whilst killing a member of one's own class usually results in fines, killing a member of a higher class was dealt with more severely, and a senator second only to an Imperial (and all after Caesar, of course). "If she won't, then those women from tonight, another witness from a different attack, plus perhaps the owner of the Elysium, would certainly build a strong case that the man is a danger to Rome's citizens." If he serially attacked, even killed, others, then he clearly could not be released.
   Tiberius fervently hoped that one or other case would be able to be made. But if not... the three men before him seemed convinced of this man's danger, as for some reason did Jason. Tiberius didn't want him walking around Rome any more than they did. "If you cannot find sufficient witnesses who will speak before a magistrate, then find one who will speak before me." He said at last, though he obviously didn't relish the thought. "I understand that many women will not wish to testify, but if this man is the monster you claim then we cannot have him roaming Rome. Have one testify to me, and I will... deal with him." The young Imperial promised, though his expression looked like he'd sucked a lemon. 
   @Chevi @Sains @Atrice @Sharpie
   
5. 

   Evergreens

   August 23

   I have, but... none of them are quite like you.
   There were many women who sought to weasel their way into Imperial hearts, for gold or glory or the chance at bearing the next Caesar. Great wits, wiles and schemes were often employed, and usually to no avail. Yet Sosia, with all her apparent innocence, did it so very easily. The words were obvious - how many Imperial princes were there? - but coming from her lips they sounded entirely unaffected. "I've never met anyone like you either." He admitted quietly, and it too was the truth. 
   What greater happiness than to spend the day together? He could hear their various slaves, guards and minders wandering around, only just out of sight, so they weren't truly alone, but they were as close as they could be. Leading her onwards, up the stairs to the next level, he sought out one of the rooms that faced south; the rare panes of glass between them and the colder outdoor air, but the winter sun warmed the room slightly. When it was inhabited there were braziers lit, of course, and there would be again when he and Marcus lived there. 
   I imagine few living Romans have been in here lately.
   "I think you're right." Tiberius agreed, searching his memory. "Quintus Augustus preferred to keep family close, in the Palace." Which, given the experiences of the purges, was hardly surprising. "I don't know whether my father used it - my birth father, Caesar Claudius. Maybe my mother did." From what he'd heard of her, the Villa Sullusti struck him as a place that she might have enjoyed, though he had no real evidence for it. But it pleased him to think of her walking these rooms and peristyles. 
   "I, um, I got you something." He admitted suddenly, slightly embarassed. It wasn't really proper to be giving gifts to an unwed woman, but he'd wanted Sosia to have some token of his esteem of her. Fumbling in the folds of his toga, he undid the tiny pin he'd hooked there.  It was a small, delicate fibula brooch, made of bright, yellow gold, with a single garnet set into the end. Garnet for protection. "I thought, if you had a pin, your palla wouldn't blow away." He said with a hopeful smile, thinking of their first meeting. 
   
   @Atrice
   
6. 

   A quick call...

   August 23

   Why would you not wish for your counsellors to gather together?
   It was a good question, a valid question. But for Tiberius there was an easy answer. "Because I do not wish to be seen as trying to usurp Titus Augustus." He said simply. It was all very well for a Patrician to have clients and informants - it was positively expected - but for him to assemble a formal concillium, aping his brother Caesar, could potentially be seen by some as Tiberius trying to grab power for himself. It was power that he did not want, but there would always be those looking to push their own agendas who might see a change in leadership as aligning with those agendas. Tiberius was steadfast in his support of Titus, and he wanted that to be clear above all else. But that didn't mean that he couldn't think for himself or have his own resources.
   Then Horatia pointed out that, in a few months, she would no longer need her father's permission. Of course. This was to be her and Aulus's third child. "The Gods will it." Tiberius echoed, as Horatia wished for a healthy child. Of course she did. Everyone did. And Tiberius added a silent prayer for the lady's health as well. 
   Out of curiosity, may I ask what sort of issues have been brought up to you thus far?
   "Nothing worthy of Caesar's attention." Tiberius admitted. "Which I take to be a good sign of the excellent governance of the Empire." He added with a brief, tight expression; her husband being one of the men responsible for exactly that. "If I could wish for one thing," he said suddenly, meeting her gaze, "it would be for peace. Stability. Not glory or conquest, not riches or fame, just for each to have what they need, for one day to be like the next, and for parents to be able to raise their children in peace." Something he, as the child, had missed out on. 
   @Sara
   
7. 

   Taken for granted

   August 18

   Tattoos to celebrate acts and feats; Jason indicated the wolf on his arm; his first kill. It was an interesting thought. Of course people killed predators, and if they did not farm then they would have to hunt. Tiberius had never killed anything save the odd summer fly, at least not directly. The Imperials had people to do that for them. Jason was the son of a chieftain, but he had killed, hunted. It must, Tiberius thought, be a life with fewer layers to it; a much flatter social hierarchy. And much simpler, which could be both a blessing and a curse. No great libraries and always one step from hunger, but no destitute poor either. So he assumed. Perhaps one day he'd be able to go to the frontier. What would it be like, to see somewhere like the steppes, 'a place where the horizon encircles you'? A place where Jason's keen vision had been highly prized, hence the hawk. The young prince wondered suddenly how he might look to Sarmation eyes; probably quite unpreposessing. 
   The stirrups help a rider to be more secure in the saddle with less effort.
   It was an interesting thought. They still looked to Tiberius like they would complicate matters, but he wasn't the one born in a saddle. If Jason said that the stirrups were part of what made his people such great horseback fighters, then they were worth knowing about. "You have my permission to give the stable master as many fits as it takes." He replied with a grin. "I'd like to try them, though I suspect they'll always come more naturally to you than to me." He was under no illusions that he was coming too late to such learning, and with too little time to devote to it. But if he could even improve his riding and his relationship with horses somewhat, that would be valuable.
   With a clatter the Praetorians arrived on their horses and Ignis danced impatiently, Jason asking if they could give the horses their run. It wasn't a conversation that Tiberius wanted to continue in front of others anyway. "Yes, lets." 
   @Sharpie
   
8. 

   Cerealia: A Day at the Races

   August 5

   Imperial Box - Young Things
   Tiberius smiled as Marcus protested that no one could ignore him. His friend - his brother in all but blood - was too kind, and whilst he no doubt spoke truth, the prince was quite certain that if he hadn't been an Imperial, he'd have been quite ignorable. Anyway, he wanted his friend to have some attention and enjoy his station. Stepping out into high ranked society wasn't all drudge and lessons. They were quickly joined by Ovinia and her brother - her middle brother, Lucius - who settled in with them. Ovinia looked well and he hoped she'd enjoy the events today. He'd made good on his promise to get her to a race or gladiator fight, so the race had best be a good one. With Jason's cousin in it, it likely would. 
   Then Ovinia asked about a middle-aged senator who was first to settle into the wider area around the Imperial box reserved for the more senior Senators, having arrived quietly whilst they'd been talking. He recognised the man more because he made a point of keeping track of Imperial officials than because he actually knew him. "Indeed. Publius Horatius Justinius." He raised his voice slightly to catch the man's attention. "One of the Empire's senior military officers, recently returned from serving in Achaea as Quaestor." He explained with a smile in the man's direction. "Eldest son of Marcus and I believe that your sister is married to Calpurnius Praetextatus, last year's Consul." The man nodded. Well, it was reassuring to know that he had the right man. 
   "Permit me to introduce Lucius Ovinius Camillus and Ovinia Camilla, and Marcus Junius Silanus." He gestured to each of the senatorial youths in turn. 
   @Atrice @Sara @Chevi @Insignia @Sharpie @Jenn
   
9. 

   Good things come to those who wait

   August 1

   He'd discussed attending Aulus's son's coming of age ceremony with his wife, but the invitation to this cena had been unexpected. It was oddly touching to be included in the doings of the Capurnii Praetextati as though he were family, though as they'd each hinted at and danced around, he might well be in the not too distant future. But that was not a given in the young Imperial's eyes, both because he had not yet really had the opportunity to speak with Aulus's daughter, and because he knew that the needs of the Empire sometimes changed, and quickly. But if they suited each other and the planets and wills of the Gods aligned such that he wed Calpurnia Horatia, it would be a connection to a good family and he would not object. There was no need to make things more complicated than necessary. 
   For now he was here for quite a different event, but still a personal family event, though he'd been a little surprised when he'd learned what it was to be. But Tiberius had added his signature to the end of the scroll, and now watched with interest as the meal's guest of honour was informed that he was, in fact, just that. For a moment his thoughts drifted to Jason; that was something he'd tuck away to consider later. Instead he forced himself to focus on the events playing out before him. 
   @Chevi@Sara @Sharpie
   
10. 

    A quick call...

    July 17

    Maidenhood and impending marriage. Tiberius hadn't thought about it like that - for a man it was just another milestone to arrange in due course - but he supposed that marriage dictated much of a woman's future, so it would be the most important thing in their eyes. That was why he wanted a woman as an advisor. One who understood the various ups and downs of women's lives.
    Horatia seemed interested, but not without reservations. "Of course." He replied evenly, tucking that little detail away in his memory. Of course, that was how most Patrician marriages were arranged. She and Aulus just seemed so close. "Either way, I would appreciate your friendship, and gladly return it." That in itself was valuable. He understood what she meant, that he would have his counsellor, it was just a question of whether or not it was offical. Horatia struck him as a good woman and an intelligent one; Aulus was a fortunate man and the young Imperial could appreciate even more why the Consul had given him the marriage advice that he had.
    "It's not a formal arrangement, if that might help sway your father. At least not at this stage. No formal gatherings of my counsellors together." He tried to explain. "Rather I'm looking for... the best word I can find is 'informants', but without the negative implications." He made a small, self-deprecating moue. "My first counsellor is a vigile. I'm hoping that you'll be my second. There is a 'maiden' I'm considering asking, though as you point out she no doubt has important things on her mind at present. And there is a plebian medicus to whom I gave access before I formalised the idea. I may revisit him as well." He was still considering, and keeping an eye out for those with their fingers on the pulse of the peoples.
    It was a difficult idea at times, but he felt that Horatia at least might understand.
    @Sara
    

Topics I Participated In

1. 

   Cerealia: Grand Finale

   Started by Tiberius Claudius Sabucius · September 20

   April 77AD
   A week of celebrations had marked the Roman Empire's honouring of Ceres, goddess of agriculture, in celebration of the sprouting of the cereal crops and probability that, this year, the Empire would not starve. There had been races, feasts, parties, theatre and of course the parading and garlanding of the statue of Ceres herself, to the sound of the priests' incantations. Now it was time for the culmination of the celebrations, the great games at the Colosseum. Beginning on the evening of the last day and running into the night, the event - and the entire Colosseum - was lit by torches, lending an earie, flickering light to the events below. And, to be frank, the faces around them. At least Tiberius knew and trusted those who gathered around him.
   As per tradition, the captured foxes had been set loose, burning brands tied to their tails, to run in terror through patches of old hay in the middle of the arena, representing the gain of the upcoming harvest, setting these too alight as they brushed past them. Eventually the flames died down and those foxes who had not already died of burns were swiftly despatched by a handful of gladiators with gladii. The dead vermin were cleared away and the charred hay raked from the sand in preparation for the next spectacle. There would be the usual gladiator matches eventually, but there was something else planned first; something important.
   Once the sand was raked clear the slaves exited, leaving only one gate open into the arena. Through that gate was pushed a man, wearing no more than a loincloth. He was no famous enemy, captured on the battlefield and brought here to show the might of Rome. He was a criminal, and one who had wronged the wrong people. Most probably wouldn't even know him, but those who did might recognise the face of Marcus Barbatius, the bloody barber. The gate through which he'd been pushed closed, and for a moment the man was alone on the sands in the torchlight. 
   A grating noise signalled the opening of two other gates, but these weren't ones used by people, save on rare occasions. These ones led to the beast pens. Shapes slunk through the gates, initially visible only in silhouette, but large and undeniably feline. As they drew into the light, one showed a sandy pelt and thick mane about it's large head, whilst the other had a more orange pelt, marked with black stripes. Large eyes gleamed in the torchlight, as the gathered crowd began to stamp it's feet. 
   Tag: Any. 
   
2. 

   Good things come to those who wait

   Started by Aulus Calpurnius Praetextatus · July 29

   June 77
    
   It had been a long time coming. Too long, perhaps, but it was better to correct an oversight than to ignore it in favour of the status quo.
   Rather than a more formal dinner party with entertainment, it was a small private gathering of Aulus, his wife, his eldest son and daughter and one or two close friends and family members who took their places in the summer triclinium which overlooked the garden. The smaller number could recline on the dining couches which were arranged in the usual fashion around the table in the centre, allowing for quiet conversation over good food. There was a single space left once everyone had taken their places, which might look (in a more slapdash sort of house) as though the host had miscounted or couldn't be bothered to try to get the right number of people to come.
   "I beg you will indulge me for a moment before we begin our meal," he said to his gathered guests. "We have one further guest, though I think it may come as a bit of a surprise to him." He turned to one of the waiting slaves. "Tell Felix to come here."
   "Yes, Domine." The slave turned and departed on his errand.
   It was only a moment or two before Felix appeared, as quick and attentive as ever. Aulus indicated  the spare place. "Felix, I would like you to join us, if you will."
    
   @Chevi @Sara @Sarah
   
3. 

   Cerealia: A Day at the Races

   Started by Tiberius Claudius Sabucius · June 25

   Mid April 77AD
   It was mid April and the weather was warming, trees were blossoming, and most importantly the first green sprouts of wheat from the grain which had been planted earlier in the season had been confirmed in the fields; the grain was fertile and growing and Rome would not starve. Ceres' blessing was on them for another year. In celebration, as was traditional each year, sacrifices of pork, wheat, salt, and incense had been offered to Ceres. Her statue had been draped in garlands of spring flowers and ceremonially paraded from her temple to the Circus Maximus, where she held the seat of honour next to Caesar himself, who sat in the Goddess's presence. There were to be races today, not of the chariots of which Romans were so fond, but of horses, in the more traditional form. Their riders would goad their individual steeds around the track, whilst the spectators looked on.
   Imperial Area
   Immediately below where Titus sat with the decorated statue of of Ceres was the space reserved for the rest of the Imperials. Tiberius occupied this area, cool under a cloth canopy, clad purely in white as was traditional; a bright tunica and toga candida. Immediately about him there was space who those whom he had invited; family of course but also the younger generation of the Senatorial class, both male and female, whilst the more senior Senatores and their wives had space reserved to either side of the Imperials, within conversation range should they desire. It was an arrangement intended to demonstrate openness and largesse, whilst also allowing his own generation - stunted somewhat by the chaos of the purges - to meet, mingle and forge their own friendships and alliances. 
   As he watched the stands gradually fill, Tiberius wondered whether he would be able to spot Jason's cousin in the race. 
   
4. 

   Safe Behind Bars

   Started by Marcus Barbatius · June 24

   February 77AD
   the day after Whoever Brings The Night
    His head was hurting, especially on the left side and towards the jaw in particular. When he moved up his hand to his head and his face, he could feel more than one area that had swelled and there was even a crack in the skin above his one eyebrow. He’d been bleeding. The blood was dry now, feeling coarse and unnatural and he almost wanted to rip the wound open to make it bleed again. Just to feel it, his own blood. Maybe that’s what he would feel now. Unless he could get out, somehow.
    Marcus had no idea what time of the day it was or for how long he’d slept after he passed out in the cell. Now someone came up to the small cell he was in, a guard, holding a wooden cup of water in front of the cell and what looked like old and dry bread. He was teasing Marcus, pretending he wouldn’t give it to him. Said he didn’t deserve to eat that well. Then the guard let Marcus touch the bread, as if he’d actually give it to him. And then he pulled it back and tossed it into a corner far away from the cell. And the water, he poured that onto the ground in front of the cell. And laughed, before he spat at the stain of water and left. Marcus leaned against the back of the cell.
    He should not have done it, he should not have let his anger get the best of him and he should not have gone out to kill one or more of all those people in the room that night. But he had wanted to remove them, so they could not put him in danger. Instead he’d been caught for the deeds he'd done.
    And while a part of him enjoyed that they wanted to see him dead, and a part of him had enjoyed seeing people he’d hurt before, people whose blood he’d seen… while he had enjoyed that, he had not enjoyed the blows to his head, mostly given by Alexius. And he did not enjoy sitting in this cell. All he had here was his mind. Maybe he should put it to use. He would need to speak up for himself. Marcus assumed he’d have a trial. Anything else would be unjust. He would plea for a trial. It had to happen. So that he could speak for himself and maybe prove that they could not prove that he was behind the murders and the attacks. Yes, that’s what he’d do. He would think.
    And so he did. No other guard came with food for him. And he was so far into his own thoughts that he barely noticed it when someone did approach the cell again. There wasn’t much light here anyway. Why should he bother with opening his eyes?
   
5. 

   The night shift

   Started by Lucius Manius Victorius Roscianus · June 6

   February 77AD (Right after Judge and Jury)
   The four of them - Alexius, Decimus, Jason, and Lucius - managed to deposit the killer at the Tabularium without further trouble. If he tried to struggle, one of them was always more than happy to punch him in the stomach, and seeing a praetorian and a vigile bring the man in, he was soon secured in a cell he wouldn't get out of. They all wanted to make damn sure of that. It was the early hours of the morning by now, but the task was not yet over. Following Jason, they all headed to Tiberius' domus, to report the news of the capture to the young imperial. 
   Technically, the killer was in the hands of the judges now. But to make sure he would not wriggle out of his fate, they all wanted to personally tell an imperial just how much this man needed to suffer before he died.
   "We'll wait while you wake him up" Lucius told Jason. The bandage on his arm was bleeding through (although more slowly now) and he felt more tired than ever. He just hoped Tiberius wouldn't be furious for being woken up at this early hour. He imagined they looked like quite the strange collection of people.
   @Atrice @Sarah @Sharpie @Sains
    
   
6. 

   An Education

   Started by Vibia · May 23

   February 77AD
   Vibia glanced around, long white blonde hair falling over her shoulder and to her hips as she studied the world beyond that subtle door in the Gardens of Sallust. An Imperial invitation was absolutely not one she was going to turn down, and bless Marcus Junius Silanus for thinking of her. He'd made it plain she was for the Prince, but he wanted somebody for himself and so she walked, arm in arm with a beautiful dark-eyed, dark-haired beauty through into the villa. They looked like fire and ice, perfect opposites. Where her body was artfully curved and her features were pale and delicate with doe blue eyes and blonde hair, Liana was olive skinned and willowy with striking features. A perfect pair for the wealthy, she thought. 
   Slaves, neatly dressed and unobtrusive, milled about before shepherding the two ladies into the villa and the corridors beyond. Vibia held up her hand to halt the men and slipped off the thick cloak she was wearing. Liana did the same. They were both dressed in exquisite Assyrian silk that, depending on how many times you folded it could be utterly transparent or fully opaque. She left it somewhere in the middle for her chiton, revealing the outline of her shape and the curve of her thighs and chest, sheathed in shimmering silk. It would be far, far too immodest for a proper Roman matron but neither woman was that. Liana's was silver. They were both bedecked in ornate jewellery as well, so as they rounded a corner into a receiving room - lamps dimmed and male voices floating to meet them, she grinned. Their dress and preening had most definitely been the correct call. 
   Inclining her head just a touch, she pulled her eyes up and surveyed the men. She recognised Silanus from the other one's amusing party, although for that she'd been hired for other skills - which she also thought she might be requested for tonight - hence why one of the slaves carried her cithara. Her eyes drew to the darker haired man and the smile on her lips became feline and suggestive. "Sirs. Thank your the invitation. I hope Liana and I didn't keep you waiting?" 
    
   TAG: @Atrice @Sarah
   
7. 

   Demanding an Audience

   Started by Hilda of the Chatti · May 2

   April, 77AD
   Hilda tilted her head to the side, squinting up into the sun and the hill in front of her. She'd been told this was where their chief rested his head. Why the chief needed such an ostentatious home was beyond her. She'd been in Rome a handful of days and yet she had been surprised almost every hour. She'd still not found Wulfric, as it turned out 'the subura' was a very vast place with too many people in it to count. She'd countenanced going back to Varus and demanding his specific address, but she'd scrapped the idea. Even the vaguely helpful instructions of 'he works at this warehouse' hadn't led her to her brother, and so she did what she knew - she walked to the most important part of the settlement (city) and decided to seek help there. 
   She was under no illusions that their chief, their Emperor, would know where Wulfric was but she did have a thought that perhaps he'd loan her assistance to find him. She was the granddaughter of the chief of the Chatti. She was a princess, in almost all respects, and she was to be respected. Smoothing down her long-sleeved shift and the sleeveless dress that lay on-top and then adjusting her belt and the gleaming broach at her shoulder she huffed in annoyance. People were avoiding her eyes and she tried to will her features into something friendlier. It didn't seem to work as people continued to scurry past her; men in pristine white drapery, women with their heads covered and hair twirled up, and small people in shabby looking clothes rushing with their arms laden. Nobody wanted to help. She huffed again and placed her hands on her hips. 
   "How do I see the Emperor?" She called out, to nobody in particular.
    
   TAG: Open!
   
8. 

   Evergreens

   Started by Horatia Sosia · April 8

   Early December, 76AD
   It felt like it had been forever since that party in November. She had tried her best to be a good daughter to her father and her family in general. She went to the social events they wanted her to go to, she socialized, she’d even met with her cousin Horatia, which had been interesting. After that she’d been a bit more careful, because Horatia now knew a secret of hers. She hoped her cousin wouldn’t tell, but why would she? What would Horatia gain from ruining Sosia’s future, by telling her family that Sosia was in love with Tiberius? Nothing, she thought. And so she hoped it was still a secret to anyone, what happened that night at the party.
   Now that was another reason to try her very best to be a good daughter and honor her family. Yet she could not forget the way Tiberius kissed her, the way he held her and the words he said to her. He thought her pretty and sweet… and he liked her. And he kissed her. And said he’d never forget her and they’d see each other again. Already before they kissed, he’d promised her that he would show her the gardens of Sullust and she hoped he would keep the promise. He said he would not forget. He said he wanted to see her again. But when?
   Then suddenly there was a messenger from the palace. For her. Tiberius had a date set and she was invited to join him for a walk in the gardens. She could barely wait. But what to wear? Gods! Oh she prayed to them too, asked them to help her, asked them to make sure she’d stay on the right path today. But she also prayed that Tiberius still liked her. Despite that her father had set up more than one meeting with possible suitors, wealthy and older men, who were probably nice, but… they were not Tiberius.
   But the day came. A day in the gardens in the winter. She dressed in a light blue gown and wore a light yellow palla with it. A few pearls, and she had her body slave Helia bring her a few evergreens to decorate her hair with. She wore the green leaves almost like a crown on her hair. Her body slave told her she was very pretty and she believed it. Then she went to meet Tiberius outside the gardens. Helia came with her, and a guard too, but they promised to keep their distance. She wished they didn’t have to come, but her father said anything else would be improper. Now she stood there, waiting. Hoping. Sighing. Until she was distracted by a rare flower, growing just near the gates to the gardens and she crouched down to pick it, maybe to decorate her hair with.
   @Sarah
   
9. 

   Start as you mean to go on

   Started by Jason · April 5

   February 77
   Tiberius was studying or reading or something - Jason had had no idea that scrolls could be so endlessly fascinating! - which had led to Jason's being able to take a few moments for himself, so long as he stayed within call of his master's rooms. That was easily done; his master was in one of the rooms off a private courtyard which gave Jason the opportunity to enjoy the outdoor space while still being within an easy call.
   He had found a patch of grass in the sun where he could lay down and stare up at the blue sky above, trying to pretend he was looking at a portion of the vast skies over the steppe at home. It wasn't quite working, though, he couldn't hear horses from his position, and the grass wasn't tall enough for the wild prairie grass. Nor was the wind the constant fresh breeze of his home.
   It was all he could get, though, and if the force of Jason's wishes could move the steppe to where he lay, Tiberius would have looked up to find himself surrounded by eternal horizon where the blue sky and the green grass met.
    
   @Atrice
   
10. 

    To Gaius Ovinius Camillus, Praetor of the Empire

    Started by Tiberius Claudius Sabucius · March 7

    November 76AD
    Praetor Ovinius Camillus,
    I write to you in greeting and acknowledgement of your service to the Empire. Though we have seen each other in Senate sessions we have not had the opportunity for formal introductions, and thus I seek to remedy that. You have achieved much and your family shows great potential. Should such interest you, I would be most pleased to meet with yourself and your sons, to better acquaint ourselves and to know the upcoming generation of Senators.
    The Goddess Athena, patroness of Rome herself, has perhaps shown a sense of humour, as the first member of your line that I have met was in fact your daughter, Ovinia Camilla, who attended the event at the palace a few months back. We re-encountered each other in passing on our travels through Rome and had an intriguing discussion on the topics of philosophy and geography. It speaks well of your family that you have a daughter so keen of mind. I have included two treatises for her which, following our conversation, I believe that she might find of interest.
    I look forward to future communication with yourself and shall watch with interest the political progress of your sons.
    Yours, in Service to the Empire
    Tiberius Claudius Sabucius
    The letter was accompanied by two scrolls. One was a treatise on the tenets of modern Stoicism by Seneca, whilst the other was a recounting by an Imperial geographer and map maker of a mountainous region of northern Gaul, including descriptions of the local peoples, their dwellings and even some of their traditions.
    @Sara
    

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