

Tertius Quinctilius Varus
Senatore-
Content Count
287 -
Last visited
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Player
Atrice
About Tertius Quinctilius Varus
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Praetor
Custom Fields
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Face Claim
Craig Parker
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Location
Rome
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Quote
My will, your hands -
Face Claim
Craig Parker -
Location
Rome
Recent Posts
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Tertius pretended to ignore the way Secundus stared at him, when he pointed out that Sergia had been way too young for marriage, when Tertius himself married and left the house for good. It was all on Secundus, this issue. Tertius had tried to do his bit with Longinus already and he did not think it was his fault it didn’t work out then. But it might now. Longinus awkwardly commented on the ‘squabble’ between siblings and how he didn’t know about them. He smiled, but he had no idea what a nest he just stuck his hand into. He was a friendly man though, Longinus. Tertius hoped he’d not end up getting stung.
Longinus continued about Sergia, apologizing again about how he fell for an unsuitable woman instead, so now he was here. And he would know when he could meet Sergia. Secundus was right – there was one area right here, where they seemed to agree. Their niece should have a husband and it better be sooner, rather than later. Longinus was a fine choice. Tertius thought he’d not mind being related to him. Secundus had stayed quiet for a while now though and now words escaped his lips, inviting Longinus to his villa to meet Sergia. And then he wondered, indirectly, just how suitable Longinus might be, if he fell for the wrong lady before.
Tertius arched a brow, he couldn’t help but smile. His brother showing a bit of cleverness for once! That was interesting. And that was a very good question! Tertius picked up a handful of grapes to eat them, as if he was watching a show.
@Sara @Járnviðr
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The more he sat here, eating the snacks, drinking the wine and listening to the conversation, the more upset he became. Secundus, the madman, had more or less thrown him out of his childhood home last time they met and now they were supposed to sit here and act civil, because of Longinus. Tertius didn’t want to be here. He wanted to not see Secundus. They’d been fine before Germania. Even while they were there. But after Secundus’ disappearance and then reappearance many years later… things went the wrong way. But he sat quietly, now. Listening to Longinus attempt to joke, although he’d not met Sergia, and then he mentioned his late wife. Not quite proper when discussing your future wife, Tertius thought.
Meanwhile Secundus was eating in a very uncivilized way and he caught the glance Longinus sent him. Tertius just rolled his eyes without a word, quietly letting Longinus know that Secundus was far off and there was nothing to do about it. Longinus went on. Wondering why Sergia wasn’t married. Yes, why exactly was that? Tertius arched a brow too, curious to hear what his brother would answer to this interesting question.
Tertius had no chance to reply and he would let Secundus do it anyway. Of course Secundus blamed Tertius and then gave a strange speech about how opposites did not attract and how a wife should give him what you didn’t already have. Tertius was amused, wondering what exactly Livia gave to Secundus, because he could not imagine that lovely, young woman wanting to give anything to Secundus. Then his brother claimed that both he and Tertius had paraded suitors to Sergia before, but their squabbles got in the way.
“I don’t recall I had any need to parade suitors back then, not yet. She was still a child, when I married and left our childhood home… or don’t you remember, Secundus? It is more than ten years ago.” Tertius replied, “I’m afraid I do not have any good explanation to why Sergia is unmarried. She is beautiful like her mother – our sister - and will make a good wife to anyone, I’m sure.” Tertius said with a friendly smile, “But I do agree with my brother in one case – to make sure you get along and the match is well-made, you should meet her. I am quite sure she is eager for marriage.” He knew she was eager to marry – so she would not suffer a moment longer in the same house as Secundus. Tertius had felt the same when he married.
@Sara@Járnviðr
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Why was Secundus here? He wasn’t there last time Tertius met with Longinus, so why now? Tertius gathered it had to do with Sergia, but he did not consider his brother to show up. Secundus didn’t care about anyone but himself. Of course though his brother tried to plaster on some polite words, but then he could not help but insinuate that Tertius just had a son with someone not his wife – because he didn’t have one – but Tertius would not let him feel he’d won.
“We are all fine and thriving, Secundus. I hope you and your family are the same. I’m surprised to see you in Rome, I heard you’d gone to the villa.” He commented back to his brother, but none of them smiled and then Secundus turned his attention to Longinus and went straight to business. Poor Longinus seemed bewildered for a moment, but then he invited both his guests further in towards the triclinium, while Longinus revealed the reason for the meeting. Tertius took a seat, making sure Longinus would be between him and Secundus, so he could keep his distance. Longinus began talking about Sergia, whom he was apparently suddenly interested in again. Tertius picked up the goblet with wine closest to him.
Secundus spoke of Sergia and mentioned of her youth, although she was in her early twenties now and should have been married years ago. Something Secundus had not seemed to be busy with until now. Why had he not found a husband for her already? The poor young woman was trapped with him instead. Then Secundus mentioned she was not fond her uncle… not her uncle Tertius, but Secundus. Quinctilia and Sergia sometimes came to see Tertius, he supposed to rest a bit from Secundus’ oddities, and they seemed happy enough with that. His attention returned to Secundus, who now began eating. It wasn’t a pretty sight. Tertius wondered why he was here at all. It was obvious now that Secundus would exclude him from the conversation the best he could and he was the one in charge of Sergia, Tertius was not. Instead he picked up a handful of dates, eating them while watching and paying attention the conversation. He had nothing to add right now, after all.
@Sara @Járnviðr
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Her frown was so short he barely noticed it, instead she smiled happily and agreed that they were some kind of family and that Peregrinus would grow up with love and comfort. Tertius nodded, “Then we want the same for him. That’s a good start.” He replied with a warmer smile back to her and then he’d toyed with a quite different thought, that he didn’t know if he’d ever go through with, although emperors had done it before, so why not him? Although he didn’t know if Charis was wife-material… if she’d be a good, Roman wife. He doubted she would. She’d lived here a few years now, but she was probably still a Brit inside. But again, you never knew with the future, did you? Charis looked at Peregrinus, before she replied and spoke of how you could not plan your life, because the gods would change and twist it anyway.
“That’s what they seem to enjoy doing.” Tertius said and Charis said she had all she needed, for now. He nodded again, had this thought of putting his hand over hers, just for a moment, but then he didn’t. It felt awkward, somehow. He hated awkwardness.
“I suppose I do too… for now.” He added. Would he bed her again, once Peregrinus no longer required her to nurse him so often? She was still beautiful. Perhaps even more now that she was a mother. It suited her so well. But no, not yet. All his thoughts and ideas of her would have to wait. Maybe another time… if she continued to be so good.
“I suppose I should get on with my duties for the day. And you can… go and rest with Peregrinus, if that’s what you need to do. I will summon you or come to you, if I want to see my son.” Tertius said and stood, leaving a moment there for her to reply to him, if she had anything more to say.
@Sara
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Longinus had such a charming and winning smile on his face, Tertius thought to himself, while the other senator greeted him, clasping their arms together and thanking Tertius for making the time to come here. Then admitted it had been rude that he did not contact Tertius after last time they talked, “Don’t think about it.” Tertius replied in a friendly tone, indirectly informing Longinus it had been noted but since Longinus more or less apologized, it was alright. Besides, the matter of Sergia now seemed entirely out of his hands anyway. He didn’t know yet she was the reason he was here, now.
The other senator commented on Tertius’ latest addition to the family and Tertius smiled, he couldn’t help but being proud of his son, even if he was born by a slave from Britannia. Peregrinus was now almost half a year old and he was thriving and happy. Tertius looked forwards to seeing his first steps and hearing his first word, “Yes, I did have another son a while ago… little Peregrinus.” He said, leaving it unmentioned between them, that he had no wife to bear the son. Everyone knew anyway, so what was there to hide? But it wasn’t something you talked about openly, of course. They were then interrupted by one of Longinus’ slaves, apparently here to tell something of importance. It was then she spoke the name.
Tertius’ eyes widened with surprise, Secundus… here? Why? He had not seen his brother since just after the earthquake in the summer and he honestly had not expected to see him so soon. Or so suddenly. He looked at Longinus, who explained himself and then said he had not had the pleasure of meeting Tertius’ brother. The pleasure? More the disgrace! Tertius felt almost speechless and only opened his mouth to speak after Longinus asked if it was alright, “I didn’t exp…” He was cut short as his brother walked into the scene as if he owned the place. It didn’t go well last time they met. Secundus more or less ordered Tertius to simply leave his childhood home. He lifted his chin while Longinus approached his brother, but he didn’t speak – he honestly could not come up with any polite greeting for his brother right now.
@Sara @Járnviðr
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Charis nodded when Tertius instructed her, that Peregrinus was her highest priority right now. She could do her garden work, if she wanted to, but if Peregrinus needed her, that’s where she needed to be. Right now everything seemed peaceful and Charis was so pretty and calm… but he didn’t know yet if he could trust her. This was a hope, that he could. If she could not fulfill her duty and keep his son happy and comfortable, it was still in his power to change Charis’ life again. To ensure his son’s happiness. But she said she wanted Peregrinus to be happy too and promised to not let him down.
“I hope not.” Tertius said, his voice was soft enough but if she looked, she’d see that look in his eyes – she just promised she’d not let him down. Because she knew there’d be consequences, if she did. After that, there was a long moment of peace, where Charis nursed his son and Tertius just watched her. She didn’t seem too distracted by it and Tertius felt at peace for once, here in this moment, with her. He told her his thoughts and then she said she’d like that too. Calling them a proper little family. Well perhaps not a proper family, she was a slave, but the father of her child and her child were not slaves. But a family none the less. Before he could respond to that though, Charis took it back.
“We are a kind of family though, are we not? Although you are not free and we are not married. It’s still just the three of us, right now.” Tertius replied. In his mind he toyed with the idea of freeing her and marrying her, but would she succumb to that? Could he trust her with freedom and marriage? It was a nice thought. He hadn't met any other women he'd like to call wife. With Charis, maybe. If Imperials and Emperors could do it, why not he? But first he needed to know if he could trust her at all. Tertius wasn’t known for freeing his slaves, but it happened with Teutus now and now he had another son.
“There’s no knowing what the future holds.” Tertius then added, wondering how she’d react to such words.
@Sara
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It was more than a year ago that Tertius had a special visit from the Senators Longinus and Rufus, regarding possible marriage between Longinus and Tertius’ niece, Sergia. Tertius had hoped for the best after the meeting, which he thought went well enough – despite Rufus being sick – but there was no word regarding the proposal and when he heard that Longinus was due to marry another woman, he had assumed it was the end of that. Secundus would have to deal with marrying Sergia off on his own, again. His brother had, after all, pushed him and today Tertius had no say in what happened to his sister or her children. He knew though that none of them had married yet and Sergia wasn’t getting any younger.
So he was surprised when he gained the invitation from Longinus to come to his own, apparently to discuss the proposal once more. He had of course heard that the marriage that had been set up for Longinus did not go through, but he didn’t know that Longinus was still interested in Sergia. And again... it was none of his business. It was Secundus’ business and he was clearly not handling it very well at all. Quinctilia never remarried and Sergia was not married either. Hopefully young Marcus would do better, most likely being smart enough to find someone on his own and not rely on Secundus to get it done.
Tertius had dressed finely, in a dark blue tunica and toga with golden decorations, for the invitation. His lectica carried him up to the domus in the area of the small Aventine. From the outside, the domus looked like any other in Rome. But Tertius left the lectica and with Hector following behind him, he approached the place and a slave let him into the atrium. The decorations indoors were… interesting. There was much to look at here and Tertius certainly wasn’t bored while he waited for the host. At last Longinus appeared with a grin on his face, “Thank you for the invitation, Senator.” Tertius replied to the welcoming host, “I hope you have been well since last time.” He continued, unaware that there was another guest also approaching the domus.
@Sara@Járnviðr
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How could he state anything else, but her being the mother of his son? He had no wife and no one else but Charis would take care of his son, at least while the boy was still small. He imagined that once he'd learned to walk and talk and understand things, it might be different, but a baby and a toddler should just be what they were. And their mother should care for them, like Charis would do it now. And how could his son be comfortable if she was not? She listened quietly while he spoke, telling her all that and that she could take breaks if Peregrinus required it. Sweet Charis thanked him and then went on wondering when she could work in the gardens again.
"If you wish to do your job in the gardens, that's fine. But while he's so young, Peregrinus should be your highest priority. I don't want to see him unattended and unhappy. He is my son and it is your responsibility to make sure he is satisfied, at least at this age." It was good to know though, that Charis wanted to be helpful, even while she was taking care of their child. She really had come back and changed into someone he felt he could work together with, after her breakdown in the spring and now after the childbirth too. This was not the same disobedient Charis that he took to bed, to prove he could control her and she had no power over him. This was someone he could... admire and enjoy spending time with. He picked up a few grapes to eat while thinking about all that, and watching her, nursing his son. This was so peaceful.
"We should do this more often." Tertius said with a small smile, almost in his own thoughts though. He looked at her. He was still her master, but... "What do you think?"
@Sara
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Tertius chuckled too, when she laughed, it was contagious. But things turned serious again when he told her that he wanted things to be done right this time. Charis looked up at him, their eyes met for a brief moment there while she thanked him. Tertius nodded, it was for Peregrinus’ sake though, but he was certain she understood that. Meanwhile the little boy in her arms, by her breast, just lay there suckling quietly and everything seemed so oddly… peaceful. He watched her stroke Peregrinus’ head, she loved her son, didn’t she? Although it was not only her son. It was his son too. He hoped she understood that.
Silence fell briefly, before he also told her hoped they could work together to make Peregrinus’ life a happy one. Charis nodded, replying she’d like that and she thanked him for trusting her and trusting her to take care of her son. He had threatened with taking Peregrinus from her, in case she did not pull herself together during her breakdown. But she had done that. She had risen again, she had become someone he could talk to once more. Even spend peaceful time with, together with their son. Charis then thanked him for allowing her more freedom too and then she said he was generous, but there was a hint of a smile there.
“Am I? Maybe I am…” He replied with a little smile, but then fell more serious again, “If you’re to take care of him – and you are – then I want you to be comfortable. If his mother is not, then how can he be? And I want him to be comfortable and happy.” Tertius added, “Know that while he is small and requires your attention… you can take breaks when you need to, for him. And if you need anything for him, just let me know.” Anything for this son of his, the first son he had who was not born to be a slave. Not after he announced Peregrinus’ freedom anyway. His son was free, would grow up as a free Roman and have the same rights as everyone else. This was good.
@Sara
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Charis seemed very focused on their son, as soon as she got him back into her arms. It seemed very natural to her, motherhood… the way she handled Peregrinus, smiling at him, bringing him closer to her body because he needed that. He was hungry. Tertius wondered if she wanted privacy, he could not order her to stay and be watched, if she didn’t want to. Not in this situation. Not with their son present. He didn’t want her to feel uncomfortable. So he just had to ask. It took a few moments before she looked at him, seeming surprised about the question, but he smiled and she said nothing.
Tertius assumed that meant she did not want him to leave, or else she would have said so, right? Tertius picked up his wine, oddly fascinated by the sight. Not that he had never seen women nurse their children like that before, but it was something else with Charis and their son. He saw how she gasped and winced when the boy latched on, but after that, it seemed more peaceful and she even smiled at Tertius… while speaking of how she thought it would be easier and she had always wanted to be a mother.
“I’m sure it will come to you. You… make it seem very natural to you.” Tertius replied, thinking about her words. She said she always wanted to be a mother, yet she tried to kill herself and the baby many months ago. Hopefully she had moved on, truly. Hopefully it was not a ruse. It didn’t seem to be though… “I’m sure you will be a very good mother. I will do things better this time. I want it to be done right.” Better and more right than with Teutus, he hoped she understood that’s what he meant. Tertius was no 18 year-old anymore, who had accidentally made a slavegirl of the house pregnant. Not that this was planned, but he’d decided to welcome it anyway, “I want Peregrinus to be a happy child and I hope we can agree to both try and achieve that, together.”
@Sara
Topics I Participated In
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Deals to be done
Started by Lucius Cassius Longinus ·
Mid-January, 76AD
Saturnalia had come and gone with the fresh winter winds that whipped about the city. Although it didn't get nearly as cold as Britannia here, Longinus' body was unused to the cold after a summer spent outdoors, basking in the heat of Italia and Greece. The hypocaust was at full steam (literally) for the occasion and the paterfamilias Longinus had spent the early afternoon chivvying slaves to make his domus look presentable. It was an odd place; half-decorated in his late wife's style, a quarter under the influence of his mother with her love for garish frescos and vivid mosaics, and the rest was left up to his tastes. Tastes which bordered on the downright odd. A British battle axe on the wall in one room, some pottery he'd found en route back via Gaul in another. It was an eclectic place that had none of the polish of other Senators and Patricians his rank, but it indubitably suited him.
The slaves had done their work admirably though and it was at least tidy. After he'd waved his mother goodbye (thank the Gods) to spend the late afternoon and evening with his cousin Lepidus, Cassia his daughter going with her, Longinus was left alone with the slaves. He didn't know why he felt nervous, he'd come to his decision without much fanfare after a disappointing few months looking into the impossibility of adoption, and unsuccessfully musing over other eligible women. Maybe he was nervous because of the family? They didn't have the best reputation around, and his mother had curtly reminded him as she departed that Tertius - who'd seemed at least affable, and nice enough - had recently had a bastard born son by a slave, a son whom he'd recognised. Longinus had resisted the urge to tug at the neckline of his tunic at the remark, given he'd been in the same situation some months ago with Sestia, although that was a secret he'd take to his grave.
He'd invited both Tertius and his eldest brother here today though, and perhaps that was why he felt oddly ill at ease. He found Tertius pleasant enough but his brothers reputation preceded him. Unfortunately for Longinus, his plan required the paterfamilias and that meant Secundus himself. He hoped Tertius could temper him a little though, hence the dual invitations. Poor Longinus wasn't to know of the discord between the brothers.
A slave disturbed his thoughts and announced one of the brothers was here. "Yes, but which one?" He asked with a frown and the slave girl merely sighed and shrugged, "I don't know domine, he's tall, dark haired..." Longinus had to suppress a chuckle, "Yes dear Merula, that's very helpful." He shooed her away with a wave of his hand and jumped to his feet from where he'd been sat in the garden. Bounding through the house with his customary energy, he drew to the atrium and slapped on a wide grin he didn't quite feel. "Welcome!"
TAG: @Járnviðr @Atrice
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Personal Assistant and Secretary Wanted!
Let it be known, that Praetor and Senator Tertius Quinctilius Varus of Rome is searching for someone who can take over a vacant job as personal assistant and secretary as soon as possible. Unless the assistant is a slave, there will be an available private room for them to stay in, early in 76 AD. The assistant will also be offered meals in the house and free time as well as payment.
Age: 18-25 years of age
Gender: Male (preferred)
Social Rank: Freedman, Plebian or even Slave to be purchased
Skills: Speak, write and read fluid Latin. Other languages are welcome too. Knowledge of math. Knowledge of the law in Rome is useful too, but not required, as it can be learned.
Personal skills: Must be diplomatic, friendly, loyal and honest to their new employer.
Start date: As soon as possible
Pay: Depends on skills and social rank
The assistant will be entering a household currently inhabited by the Praetor himself, his 11 year old daughter and newborn son, one freedman as well as a good number of slaves.
The new assistant can be an already made character fit for and interested in the job - or an entirely newly made character.
Please contact Atrice via PM or Discord #7964
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Transformation
Started by Tertius Quinctilius Varus ·
31st of August, 75AD
It had been 9 days since Charis gave birth to his son. Of course he knew it was a son. Tertius was quite anxious to see the boy, but in this household he was the Pater Familias and he was the one who would decide anything that would happen to the child. So he would do things properly, as you did, as tradition ordered. Which meant he would not see his slave-born son until 9 days after the birth. If the child still lived and appeared healthy, the slave would present the child to the head of the household and Tertius would either pick up the child – setting it free – or not, leaving it to be brought up as a slave. And he would name the child.
Now it was the 9th morning after the birth and today he would finally see his son. Hector had done everything in his power to distract Tertius the night before and he had done everything to attempt to make his master relax, but Tertius had still turned in the bed at night and he’d woken when he ought to sleep. Charis knew nothing of his plans. He had only told Teutus and he trusted that Teutus would not tell anyone.
He nudged Hector when he’d been awake long enough and the slave got up and fetched a basin of fresh water for Tertius. He also fetched a fresh tunica and anything else he knew Tertius would want and Hector did not utter a word. His body slave was probably displeased with the whole situation. He knew that Charis was on Tertius’ mind a lot. He’d been worried since she went into labor and had been happy to hear that both mother and son were alive and well after. The way he lost his wife after Antonia was born… he didn’t want to lose Charis the same way. And she wasn’t even his wife, but… he couldn’t help but wishing he would not lose her. Despite everything, she had to live and be here.
After he got dressed, he sent Hector out to set up a nice breakfast in the triclinium, for himself and for Charis – and then he found a seat in the atrium of the house, because that’s where he had imagined this ceremony would take place. In his hand he held a special amulet for the child. Honestly it didn’t have to be a big deal, when the child was born by a slave and not a wife, and he had not planned it to be. He had sent word to Livia Justinia, Secundus' wife, that a child had been born, but he had not formally invited them. He doubted they would come anyway. It could be a big ceremony, with guests and many family members present, but in this case, with a slave-born child, it would just be the whole household present and Charis presenting the child and Tertius doing what he planned to do. And then it was done. After he’d been sitting there a little while, watching the slaves just do their jobs, he decided it was time and waved the nearest slave over… “Announce that Charis’ child can be presented to me now.” He told the slave, who hurried on to tell Charis and then anyone else at home at the moment, who would witness the ceremony of the newborn child.
It didn’t take long for Antonia to appear by his side, as the first and he gave her a smile and a hug, as she seemed very excited. He had of course informed her that Charis’ child was his, despite Charis not being his wife. He had explained to Antonia that he had been very fond of Charis, so fond of her that at least for a time, he had treated her almost like a wife (but not quite, of course). He didn’t know if Antonia had met her new brother. But he knew he looked forwards to it, no matter what. Slowly many of the house slaves appeared in or near the atrium. Would Teutus show up? He didn't know. All he could do now was wait for Charis and his newest son to appear.
@Sara
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About the Future
Started by Tertius Quinctilius Varus ·
23rd of August, 75 AD
He barely had any sleep last night, after Jocasta came to tell him that he had a new son. Tertius had gone to sleep in the chamber that had been set up for him, the day after Charis suddenly went into labor. He had to sleep somewhere, although it definitely was not the same as his own bed. Hector had done everything he could to make Tertius feel comfortable and he also tried during this particular night, but for some reason, Tertius was just not really in the mood for sex. Finally Hector fell asleep and Tertius turned many times, thinking about freedom, adoption, ceremonies and sons. He’d have to speak to Teutus about the matter.
No doubt his oldest son was worried about his rank in the family now that Tertius would be a father, a real father, to his newborn son. No doubt Teutus was also aware that the child had been born now, so perhaps he could guess why Tertius sent for him. Tertius would have to make sure Teutus understood it all, what had happened and what was going to happen. He'd have to make sure Teutus understood his own rank and Tertius' plans - because he honestly wasn't sure if Teutus did understand at all, why it was taking so long and why it wasn't as easy with him as Tertius had hoped. He’d also tell his plans for the new son so far. No one else knew about the plans, not even Charis. And no one else would know until the ceremony, no one but Teutus anyway.
He could not just discuss it right away though, he was a Praetor and Senator and had to do some honest work first. But after the morning turned into afternoon and the warm part of the day began, Tertius headed home and sent a slave to find Teutus, so they could meet in the tablinum. Here he sat now, on the edge of the table, just like last night, when Jocasta came to dryly announce the birth of his new son. Hopefully Teutus' mood would be at least a little better.
@Sharpie
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A New Beginning
Started by Sara ·
20th of August, 75AD
It had started an hour ago. A dull ache in her back that woke her up from her sleep and wouldn't settle. It wasn't excruciating, but it ached. By the time the hour was up, the ache had morphed into an odd sort of...pressure that couldn't quite be explained or articulated, every ten or perhaps twenty minutes that gripped her belly - deep inside. She knew enough to know that this might be the beginning. She was not due for two, or three more weeks but the midwives had warned her that with her size an early labour was not to be unexpected. She felt the waves of fear crash over her as she sat cross legged on her bed, trying to breathe through the gripping sensation as the other two girls in the room snored in their slumber, oblivious. She felt breathless, and not just from the discomfort, but from the panic that consumed her. She felt flushed, hot and trapped. It couldn't be now could it? She wasn't ready, she hadn't sent word to Cynane or her sister, she hadn't put plans in place if...if things did not go well. She choked and Jocasta stopped her snoring, but mercifully didn't wake. She couldn't stay here.
As the waves of the pressure settled again, she carefully and quietly pushed herself up from her cot and padded gently from the room into the chill of the early morning. It must have been still well before dawn - the sky was an inky black, but there was a bright moon and she found herself following the familiar route into the garden. One arm cupped her bump and the other reached out to the columns to settle herself, not out of pain - that had stopped for now - but from the fear overtaking her.
She finally made it outside on unsteady feet with flushed cheeks and moved to sit on the bench. She glanced about the place, deserted in the dead of night and tried to ignore the memories of all that had happened out here; praying to her Gods (where were they now?), that first taste of a relationship with Tertius, playing with Antonia, arguing with Teutus...everything that had happened to her here had started from the garden. Maybe that was why she was drawn here now? She must have been sat there for a little while as the pressure, the gripping pain started again and she winced, reaching out one hand so her fingers clasped the stone of the bench and she let out breathless little mewls of discomfort. As she breathed through it (dreading that this was only the beginning, and the pain would get so much worse), she didn't realise somebody else was approaching.
TAG: @Atrice
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Double Trouble
Started by Atrice ·
July 75 AD, one week after the earthquake
The earthquake was a week behind him now and slaves and workers were busy repairing most of Rome – including Tertius’ house, of course. The ceiling had to be improved, he wouldn’t forget how bloody Charis’ arms had been the morning the earthquake happened… and all because plaster from the ceiling in her room had fallen down. And her fellow slaves had not helped the pregnant and pretty young Charis.
And that was just one thing that had to be repaired. There were several others too. But that was his own home. Now however, he’d been sitting in the tablinium, deep in thought. He had not heard anything from his siblings after the earthquake. He hoped his sister and her grown children were alright, as well as Livia of course. And Secundus, he supposed, but he didn’t bother considering him much. Tertius had tried his best to be friendly with his brother, when he returned from Germania, but Secundus kept blaming him for returning to Rome and not searching for his captured brother. And he hadn’t liked how Tertius had run things while he’d been away. Things had just spiraled the wrong way and Tertius was only happy to marry and move away from his childhood home.
Since then, the brothers didn’t see each other a lot. Tertius still received visits from his sister and the children of course, but not from Secundus. Still, he was worried about his family and decided to go and take a look at the house of the Pater Familias of the Varus family. Hopefully Secundus was in the countryside, as he often was.
He didn’t bother to bring any slaves with him. The travel through Rome wasn’t long to reach the old house. It was kind of strange to knock here, but he did and a slave let him in. He just wanted to see how much damage had been done here and if Secundus even cared to repair it. The house where they grew up. He probably didn’t care. Quietly Tertius moved through the house and into the peristyle to take a closer look.
@Járnviðr
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Crazy Little Thing
Started by Atrice ·
Late July, 75 AD
It had been a good while since that evening at the Gardens of Sullust, where he had been caught off guard by a thunderstorm and had to seek shelter in one of the pavilions there. And on the same night, a lovely young lady, Caecina Tusca, daughter to the proconsul of Britannia, had done exactly the same. That is how he met her and he was plenty entertained by her wit, her charm and their conversation – and her own attractiveness of course. So much that he almost found it a pity that he was already in his mid-40’s. Of course other Senators might be happy to consider such a young woman a future wife of theirs, but Tertius didn’t like the idea… at least not of her as his wife. If he should have a wife, he would like for her to be more mature and not someone who was younger than his own son. That would be strange.
There was someone however, who should be looking for a wife, and that was his son and his heir, Teutus. He was a freedman and he could not hold office or follow the course of honor, but any children he had, they could reach proper ranks once more. And Teutus did carry the Varus name name, so any children he had, would do the same. Teutus was the one who would carry on the family name. It was all on his shoulders, especially since Secundus had no children. He hoped Caecina would like Teutus and that he would like her as well, and that her father would deem it a proper match despite Teutus’ rank.
An invitation had been sent to Caecina Tusca at the Palatine, not far from the palace, as she had explained to him. It was the end of July now, almost a month after that fateful morning of the earthquake and Tertius’ domus was more or less restored now. He had considered leaving Rome and inspecting the villa in the countryside, but decided against it, because he wanted to bring Charis and with how far her pregnancy was now… he didn’t know if it would be safe for her. So in Rome they remained. Maybe they would travel after the child was born.
Right now though, there were other important matters. The triclinium had been made ready, Rhoda was busy cooking in the kitchens and Teutus had also been informed that he should attend dinner with Tertius tonight, because they were having a visitor. Tertius had of course told Teutus how he met the young lady and that he had merely invited her to thank her for her kindness on the night of the thunderstorm. She sent for a litter for him too, after all. Now he was resting in a chair by the atrium, waiting for the guest to arrive and hoping that Teutus would be able to entertain her too.
@Sharpie @Echo
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Dining With Potential
Started by Emy ·
Safinia let the slaves fuss over her as well as her mother. It was only for a dinner with the family. No need to fuss over her. Or she had believed. Well the good thing for tonight was that she was wearing a new dress that was light green with simple in its designs with white sleeves to match it. Safinia did like the material and it was much better than the utter chaos and tragedy that was pink. A good color to be certain. But it was just simply not her color. She was willing to try and apologize to her father for her behavior. While she did believe in her behavior,she also believed in making peace for it was too drastic. It was something she had to do.
As she made her way to wear the dining was, she spoke to herself practicing to what she was to say to her father. It was a simple one but it would be for the peace. She wasn’t about to change her ways unless she thought it would save her life. But maybe this way her father won’t parade her in a square like a livestock looking for a farmer. No it was the other way around. But regardless. She had to. Plus her mother would constantly lecture her.
As the young lady made her way into the dining area,she saw her father was waiting for her with....Praetor Tertius. This was indeed a shock. But not surprising as seeing as he was not the only of the senate to visit. Her father put down his goblet and walked over to her. “Ahh there you come come.” He ushered his daughter over and introduced her. Safinia was only a little bit confused as she looked to her father who cleared his throat. She bowed her head,speaking of the honor. Her father then excused himself out of the room leaving only the slaves in prescence. “It is a honor to receive you in our home..” She spoke. “But if I may pry to ask,why now? No disrespect to you good sir but you’re not one of the senate to visit my father. Again,no insult meant”
@Atrice
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The Equality of Man [Earthquake]
Started by Atrice ·
30th of June - The Earthquake
It was an early morning… actually, it was barely morning. Everyone in the entire household were asleep, not even the kitchen slaves or those taking care of the heating system were awake yet. Silence roamed the corridors and the chambers and Tertius was also asleep in his room together with Hector, always by his side now – at least when they were in here. In the last week, there had been light tremors to the ground. It had been shaking a few times, or perhaps more rattling, it wasn’t anything big and not something he hadn’t experienced before. To most people in Rome, these things weren’t entirely uncommon.
Tertius had of course made sure to sacrifice to the right gods and to his ancestors too, asked them for help, just in case something should happen. And nothing had happened and all seemed to be fine. Until now…
He woke up with a start, as the bed was shaking much. In fact, everything was shaking! It had been a warm night and he hadn’t cared to put on any clothes after sharing some pleasure with Hector, but now…
“Hector!” He literally shook his body slave’s arm, “Earthquake!” He exclaimed while he heard vases or jars of wine fall off tables and shatter and there was dust in the air from the walls or the roof. Tertius jumped out of the bed. His tunica still lay on the floor and he quickly pulled it over his head while thinking that this was more than just a light tremor! No one in the house would sleep through this, surely!
Tertius ran out of the room, “EVERYONE out into the peristyle!” He yelled. If one of the doorways gave in or the roof, people could die! Hopefully Hector was right behind him, also waking people up, while Tertius ran to Antonia’s room to get her up. And where in the name of Hades was Charis… oh, the child! Gods! Why were they angry?
@Sharpie @Sara @Joaquin
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Late June, 75 AD
Charis had been allowed to do more and more, since their last proper conversation in the beginning of May. Now it was late in June and Charis was very visibly pregnant. It was impossible to not notice her, when he walked around the domus, although most of the time, they still didn’t interact with each other. She hadn’t done anything out of order though, since he let her out of the room and she was being a very good slave. She did as she was told and nothing else. So she was allowed longer trips to the market and the baths, just about as much freedom as the other slaves. She wasn’t spoiled like before. But she was also at the same level as the others.
He couldn’t help but sometimes watch her. Perhaps he still had a fondness for her, despite it all. And add to that the fact, that she carried his child! The first child he would have since Antonia was born. His third child. Teutus had been a mistake, back then, but today he was grateful for his son and still pleased with the fact that Teutus was now free and held his name. Any child Teutus would have, would carry on the family name. But there would be another child and Charis had been so certain it was a boy. Despite the fact that he now had Teutus written into the will as his heir, you never knew what could happen. A second son wouldn’t be bad.
He would have to talk to Charis again. Discuss her well-being and the child. Especially the child. What were her hopes – what did she think would happen? She had behaved so far and the idea of taking the child from her had faded along with his anger. He almost wanted to forgive her for her disobedience and her lies. And then he might actually accept the child and free it right away and name it his child. And let Charis be his son’s mother. But it all depended on how this conversation would go.
Tertius had the triclinium made ready for this talk. A bit of wine, a bit of water and he’d asked Rhoda what Charis preferred to eat these days; he recalled from his time with his wife, that she had certain cravings when she was pregnant. This would be the first time he would spoil Charis after she tried to kill herself and the child; and after her punishment. But all that was in the past now. Now he sat on one couch and another was ready for her. He sent a slave to fetch Charis. Tertius was willing to move on… if she was.
@Sara
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