Sarah

Well maybe you're making a new one tonight. Having revealed why she wasn't with her old friends this night, Varinia smiled at Marcus's words. "I would like that Marcus." She replied easily. Whether he'd still want to be friends after Saturnalia was another question, but this whole festival was about living in the now and she could do that. She voiced her guess that gaining freedom wasn't something Marcus would ever have to worry about, and he confirmed it. No real surprises there, but she listened to him speak. No slaves of his own, and he was young, so someone else must be pater familias if she understood Roman customs correctly. Perhaps he would be in time, but she wouldn't ask. It was none of her business. Then he suggested that she must have been good to be freed, or purchased her freedom. "Neither, though I assure you I was good." She said, with a cheeky twinkle in her eye. "My son bought me and freed me. He was born to the son of my previous master, and freed by his father when he came of age." Which was a bit convoluted. No real need to go into further details. "So now I have my son back, and my freedom as well. So I have much to celebrate." She declared, raising her glass. She considered the young man across from used, who had no slaves no his friend his night. "What about you Marcus, what do you have to celebrate?" @Atrice

"Probably me." Tiberius declared from where he lounged on the cushions Azarion had collected, now feeling quite relaxed. Or maybe Azarion was the youngest, but he didn't seem to speak so he couldn't tell them a tale. So it was still him. "What do the Gods say?" He asked, reaching for the knucklebones and throwing them somewhat haphazardly, then adding up the score on the second try. It was not a good score. "Also I can't toss bones, so it's still me." There was one story that came to mind, one which he wondered whether or not his body slave had ever heard. "King Aeson ruled Iolcus in Thessalonica hundreds of years ago. But his throne was seized by his half brother, Pelias. To protect him, Aeson's son was sent away to be raised by the Centaur Chiron." He recalled his classical education. "Centaurs are half man, half horse, and Chiron was the wisest of them all." He explained. "When the Prince came of age he returning to Iolcus to claim his throne. It had been prophesised that he would be his uncle's downfall, so King Pelias told him that he would give the Prince the throne, if he brought Pelias the golden fleece that once belonged to the winged ram Chrysomallos, and was now held in the kingdom of Colchis. Which should be impossible." Like many things in mythology. "But the Prince assembled a crew of heroes, battled giants and monsters and with the aid of a goddess whom Pelias had neglected to honour, sailed all the way to Colchis. There, with the aid of Medea, who was the daughter of the King of Colchis but also a great seer and cantatrix." He said, using one of the better words for a woman who practiced magic "he was able to overcome it's guardians and gain the Fleece. The prince married Medea, and they returned to his Uncle's court with the fleece, and he and Medea killed Pelias." He revealed. "The Prince's name was Jason." He decided to leave out the bit where Pelias's son claimed the throne, exiled Jason, who then betrayed Medea to marry another and Medea then took horrible revenge. Probably his slave had been named for the centaur connection. @Chevi@Sharpie@Atrice

But you should perhaps try and find some room for fun and enjoyment in between military service and a quaestorship and finding a wife. She chuckled gently, no doubt meaning to give him permission to enjoy himself a bit. He met her gaze thoughtfully. "And what if I do enjoy those things?"He asked with a sudden, impish little smile. And he did, in a way. Fulfilling his potential and the path set before him were satisfying, and he was driven to serve the Empire. "I read a lot. Information from all parts of the Empire, and a number of philosophers. And legal documents." He looked a little sheepish for a moment. "Perhaps that sounds boring but I find it fascinating, trying to understand how both people and society function." And if your understanding was good enough, he reasoned, you could start to work out where the levers were. And if he could work out where society's levers were, he could pursue his goal of furthering stability. And then no one would have to live through purges and civil war again. It was interesting to hear Horatia's impression of Aulus' political drives, which fleshed out his own first impression, that they were much aligned in serving for the good of the Empire, not their own political gains, fame or that ephemeral concept, glory. "I think that the Consul and I are alike in our goals." He said quietly. It was perhaps not the most modest of claims. "If the Empire prospers, we all do." But it was interesting, and kind of fun in a way, to hear Horatia's take on the possibilities of the next few years. Not everything was politics and trade routes. Of course she was concerned for her daughter's future, as was only proper. He gave her a keen, slightly amused look. "I'm sure you and Aulus would find the very best blue-painted chieftain if necessary. But did you and he not wed whilst your family was in the provinces?" He asked. Wasn't Aulus serving with her father? Of course, that required the presence of someone suitable. It occurred to him, not for the first time, that Aulus and Horatia's daughter was of about the right age for him to consider marrying, when she came of age. And they were a good family to be connected to. Of course, Horatia wasn't the only one concerned for a young woman in the family, and she was perhaps a little concerned for his sister as well, not without cause. "I daresay that she would enjoy your reading club." He replied. "I will recommend it to her. She appreciates intelligent company." Claudia was a bright and savvy young woman. "I am also working to establish my own household, which of course includes my sister." And included his responsibilities for his sister, prime amongst them was finding her a husband. @Sara

It's certainly...something. Not a good thing then. And then Ovinia went on to tell him how she'd met Marcus loitering outside the Forum Boarium during Matralia, that so very feminine day of religious festivities where the women honoured the goddess Mater Matuta and celebrated their sisters' children as a reminder of the importance and interlinkage of family. She seemed to suspect that young Marcus had other kinds of 'honouring' in mind. For a moment the young Imperial pressed his lips together in a faintly disapproving expression, then realised he was doing it and let his face relax. Marcus was a friend from his childhood and one he valued, but he was gaining the impression that, now that he was older, his friend was rather focused on other types of play. It was a long way from where Tiberius thought he should be focused: on restoring his family's success and wealth, but he hoped to help him with that. "Perhaps Marcus should thank you." He suggested mildly. "For saving him from incurring the wrath of Mater Matuta."If he had dishonoured her holy day by seducing one of the women at the temple, the consequences of angering such a goddess were surely not inconsequential. But of course, Tiberius had also encountered Ovinia outside a temple. He hadn't been loitering, but it was an obvious connection to draw. At least you made it look like an accident, she said. "Well, if you're going to spend all your time visiting temples..." he winked at her. Likely it was a convenient excuse to get out of the house. Their conversation turned more serious, to the lost years of the purges and false Caesars, and the new generations making themselves felt. "I think we all lost something during those years." He agreed quietly. "Some more than others."He'd lost family members. And the time and familial love lost from those years made him determined to do everything he could to ensure Rome remained as stable as possible. He would not see such again if he could avoid it. But those wounds were healing, and Ovinia complimented him on his recent event. That brought a small smile to the young Imperial's face. "I will, if I can hold you to that promise."He said. "Though perhaps some more formal events as well, such as a youth forum." Something where there was less opportunity for casual social offense. "And open to some older participants too; perhaps those who are not yet occupying a seat in the Senate." Then her younger brothers, and those of other Senatorial women, could attend. He could meet more up and comings, as could women like Ovinia and Sosia, not that he was trying to run a match-making service. "I think you've put your finger on that social gap; it's time we made more of our own connections." He wasn't exactly the best to ask about entertainments though, and had neglected to consider what might be proper for a young woman as opposed to a young man, when suggesting the theatre. Oops. It was just something he thought she might find entertaining and a distraction from the everyday. But there were other, more appropriate interested. Ovinia had mentioned her interest in music previously, and she revealed that she'd like to learn to play the cithara well. It was a lovely instrument. "I'd love to hear you play it." He replied. Unfortunately it wasn't something he could really facilitate. But games and races, now they were another matter. Then she blindsided him by asking, if he could do anything in the world right now, what would he do? Tiberius actually paused for a moment in his stride, as he gave the question thought. "You know, I'm not really sure." He admitted. "I guess that means that I'm mostly doing what I want to do."He added with a sheepish smile. Or that the things I want to do are impossible, such as give my mother a hug, and sit at Quintus's feet to listen to his wisdom again. The longing for the comforts of childhood, even ones he hadn't known such as his mother's love beyond infancy. But he was, of necessity, a man in the Empire now. So what else? "I'd like to see the Empire." He settled on at last. "After the purges, we basically lived in the palace. Protected, I guess. I'd like to travel. But I assume that, as a Military Tribune, I will travel with the legions."Which he was actually looking forward to. "I'm sure there will be some excuse for races over the next few months. Do you think an invitation to sit in the Imperial area might be acceptable to your father? With your brothers and some of our friends, of course." He glanced across at her. @Sara

I have no reason at all not to, Domine. "Well, go on then." Said Tiberius, nodding in Ignis's direction. He could see how easily Jason handled Ignis on the ground, where others including himself had trouble. He wanted to see how his body slave fared in the saddle. If it was as well as he suspected, the young Imperial might well have found his new riding instructor. And to be able to ride like the horse people were said to would be a find thing indeed. And all because he decided not to ignore the man's background. How many other useful skills and talents were out there, wasting away in menial servitude? Tiberius would ride the bay, whom he knew to be a calm animal, but he wanted to see Jason up onto Ignis first. Just because the bay was quiet, didn't mean that his learnings couldn't be applied there for a better relationship with the horse. @Sharpie

"It was hard." She agreed simply, then she shrugged. "But dwelling on the past gets me nowhere. My present is much brighter." She said, then nodded slightly in answer to his next question. "I was young, though no younger than many Roman women." After all, the Romans considered a woman marriageable once she'd had her first blood. So some had children as young as she did. So now she had a son who was a man grown, and she might yet be young enough to have another child, though the chances were low. As that thought flicked through her mind she felt a small pang; perhaps she should consider whether that might be something she wanted enough to have a man in her life again. I guess you must know him well. Since… you have known him for so long. "I did." She agreed. "But we've both changed since then. Grown up, for a start." Again that little shrug. "We'll just have to see." There was only one way to find out what kind of man Tertius was now, and that was to speak to him. And she would. It was a meeting she was both anticipating and dreading, because what she remembered and what she heard about him were very different; and the outcome could be just about anything. Then Alexius said he should be going. "Don't apologise, I enjoyed talking to you." She said honestly. "Thank you." She replied. It was good to know that there was someone else that Teutus knew and she could rely upon, in the insula. "Feel free to drop in again, if you're hungry or just want to chat." But Teutus was probably waiting for Alexius down at the warehouse. "And here." She turned away for a moment, then turned back and pressed two pears into his hands. "Give one to Teutus for me." The other, of course, was for Alexius. @Atrice

It had been months since she'd shown up at Tertius's door to announce her freedom. Months since he'd welcomed her in and they'd had their conversation. It had gone far better than she'd feared, and their friendship seemed to be working well. Tertius had his world, she had hers, and occasionally they crossed. In fact, when Teutus had something to send his father, she'd offered to take it herself. It was enjoyable to say hello occasionally, and she didn't need more than that. The fact that her yellow linen chiton and blue palla spoke of the spring in the air, and her fibulae were brightly polished meant nothing, of course. As she walked up the street, she noticed a young man leaning against the wall opposite the Domus that was Tertius's. He might be resting or lingering with greater intent, but as she drew closer, Varinia noticed that his gaze often focused on that particular door, then moved away. Hmm. If he had business with Tertius, surely the man would just knock. She knew little about his work, but did know that it involved the law, and the untangling of legal matters. Might someone who didn't feel well done by seek some sort of revenge? Or could the man be a thief, casing the house? Or perhaps he was simply tired and had to look somewhere. There was one way to find out, and the woman who was everyone's mother and general busybody knew just how to do it. "Good morning." Varinia said with a smile as she approached. "Are you alright?" She added, a touch of concern in her tone. @Atrice

"The pleasure's mine." Spurius replied with a slight bow, leaning on his staff, before gratefully taking the seat offered in front of the desk. He was tall and stood when needed because it made a certain impression, but it was good to sit down. "A small cup would be appreciated, if it's not too much trouble." But only small; as a trader himself he knew the perils of drinking whilst working. No doubt the brothels handed out cheap wine fairly freely, to encourage their patrons. Spurius glanced around the office, making no secret of observing the changes, as he had done in the rest of the building he'd passed through. "I noticed some improvements when I arrived." He revealed. "Your predecessor let the place become rather run down, and wanted only the cheapest slaves, so we didn't do much business. If you're looking to improve the venue, and the services, I suspect that I may have more to offer you." He said simply. "Whilst I rarely trade in the cheapest, I do have a wide range of individuals come through my business, and I can select out those who meet your requirements, in skills, looks and price." He did that for others. If he knew what someone was looking for, when he had one who matched that description he would bring them to the business. He did that regularly with the Domus Venus. "I also have work crews available to hire, if you're looking for some assistance with repairs?" He suggested. @Atrice

I rarely had them either. Makes today a good one, right, domine? She smiled at him warmly. "It does indeed." She replied, happy in this simple pleasure, even more so to share it with him. "Perhaps I'll have to get you and Amandus to come to the markets with me more often." On the excuse of carrying things for her whilst she shopped. Then she could spoil them as she would have liked to have spoiled Teutus when he was young. Varinia had only had the one child, but she could have happily mothered a whole brood, and would still mother anyone who would let her, including the younger slaves. Especially the younger slaves. She knew all too well the things that they would have gone through, and was determined that they should not suffer in this household. They wander on, Varinia perusing the stalls and making notes. As they passed a wool stall she asked after Jannus's clothing, which he assured her fit well. "That's good. Let me know if it gets too small, or too worn." There was no need for any in her household to be cold or uncomfortable. That was her view anyway, having been both at various times. Most Romans of course didn't care if their slaves suffered a little, considering that their lot in life. But she'd been there, and was determined that Teutus's slaves would not suffer the same. Pausing, she fingers one of the fleeces, rubbing the lanolin-rich wool between her fingers. It was soft and fine, and would make a beautiful winter tunica or cloak. But it was a big bag, and it was best not to burden them down when they had the loom to carry. She would come back tomorrow for a new fleece to spin. She was already planning in her head what she would make with it. Perhaps she would dye it with onion skins and make a bright, golden blanket that would double as a cloak. "Where are you from Jannus?" She asked. The carpenter who made looms wasn't too far ahead. @Insignia

When Tiberius called for Jason, he expected the slave to appear at his summons, and he always had. He didn't bother about where Jason went whilst Tiberius was concentrating on his studies or reading, only that he was available when he wanted him. And Jason always had been, until now. "He's here, Tiberius. Come join us." Tiberius looked up and frowned slightly. That was Marcus's voice. But the young prince wasn't the type to leave a mess in his wake. "Why don't you join me, Marcus?" he replied evenly, "I have something here that I think will be of interest to you, and which we should discuss. After these scrolls have been cleared away." Which was why he wanted his body slave. "Jason, come here." There, that was plain enough, and his tone at the last request was firmer than usual. Whilst his friend was now a part of his household, he would not have his orders countermanded. @Atrice@Sharpie

Lucius grinned and rolled his eyes. "I don't need a stunning beauty, just a face I wouldn't mind seeing in the morning." And a body I wouldn't mind seeing at night. "But personality is important." He agreed. "No one wants to wed a harpy." Not that he was too worried about that. But he was a little disappointed that Ovinia didn't have an easy answer for him. He liked easy. His family had a tendency to be passionate perfectionists, always wanting the best of the best and everything just so, but Lucius was black sheep in that regard. He'd long ago realised that close enough was good enough and a lot less stress. But he had time. Far more interesting just now was Ovinia's response to his casual question about her last marriage prospect. He swore she nearly choked, looking for a moment like a deer in the hunter's sight. He couldn't fail to notice that she had to clear her throat twice before she could even answer him properly, telling him she'd asked father to call it off. The question was why; the man had met their father's high standards so should be everything one might wish for. Well, from their father's point of view anyway. Obviously not from Ovinia's. Eating his olives, he listened whilst his little sister elaborated, noting the point about the brother. Not just a brother, but an idiot brother. Ah. "Lost potential there, you think?" He asked casually, spitting olive pits into his hand and dropping them into the bowl. But I'm sure someone else will come along. Lucius wished he was quite so sure. He didn't want his sister to have to settle for some old man who'd already fathered his heirs. But she asked about his friends; strapping, handsome, kind and up to father's standards. "You don't want much, do you?" He chuckled, but the calculating look on his face said he was already running mentally through his catalogue of friends. "So I don't waste your time, what was it about Gaius Vipsanius Roscius that you didn't like?" He asked, seemingly idly but he wasn't quite ready to leave that alone yet. She'd admitted she might have been a little choosy, after all... She was right on the money on his political options. "Intelligence to match your beauty." He agreed with a grin. "You could absolutely visit." It might be just the distraction she needed from her suitors, and it might be the push that Viria needed to step up in running the household. But if he could get a provincial Quaestorship, which province? "I don't know." He admitted. Back to Hispania would be nice, but there were many parts to the Empire. "Perhaps I'll apply for all of them and see where Fortuna sends me." That could be exciting. It would increase his chance of getting one of the positions, whilst also relieving him of the need to actually made a decision. Easy. He'd heard that Britannia was cold and wet too; it was the main thing that people said about the place. Oh, and the people were really backwards, painting themselves blue and letting their women fight. "Would visiting me in Britannia be better than staying at home?" He asked, teasing gently. @Sara

Spurius smiled as Didia bowed, though the smile took on an amused twist as she then immediately began setting terms, and asking for information about his business. She was a canny one, no wonder her father trusted her to run his business whilst he was indisposed. Whatever would the old man do when she wed again? Or would he pay the tax for her, as Spurius paid it, to remain celibate, so she could keep the business going. But he was certain Didia had brothers. Likely this was one of several stalls, and with any luck things were going well for the family. He named a number of people to feed, though of course his stock ranged around that number depending on ingoings and outgoings, and she wasn't the only supplier he purchased from. But fresh vegetables and even some fruit to add to their diet of porridge would be a good addition to maintain health. "If the slaves don't like it, that's their problem." And he was pretty certain that they would. "You'll only hear complaints if I don't like it, and I'm sure I won't have cause for complaint." The words will I? hung unspoken in the air. And there she was, pushing for something else for his more expensive stock. Whilst he'd laud her salesman's instincts, Spurius didn't appreciate being pushed. "Just what we've discussed." He said, a little more firmly. "If I like what I get, we can talk about more next month." He was as good as his word. If the produce was fresh and plentiful, he would increase the order, but he wasn't going to commit large amounts on an unknown. He might not be trading to foreign lands but he'd learned his father's lessons well. "Here's what I owe you for the apples and pears, and here's for the first week's delivery." He counted out the sum in coins and offered them over. It was a neat little sum. "I look forward to us doing further business." @Sara

The change in her demeanour was almost comically stark. Where before she'd been quiet and downcast, suddenly she was lively and bubbly. Whether it was the thought of a possible new client or simply being asked to do something other than spread her legs, he didn't know, and his irritable mood didn't allow him to consider that she was a naturally helpful creature. In fact he almost snapped at her to stop her chatter, purely because he was in a foul mood, and even a little preemptively defensive. He could still hear that years old, stifled laughter. But she wasn't laughing at him, she was explaining that she used to massage her mother's arm as she knelt down before him on the hard tiles. It was the first really personal detail he'd ever learned about her, not that most people were interested in the backgrounds of slaves, but she had a pleasant voice and her light accent was actually quite pleasant. She started to mention her father, then stopped. If she knew her father, chances were either she'd been born free and sold, or her father had been free and not acknowledged her. Then of course some of her customers appreciated such skills. Well, that boded better than he'd expected, at least. Stretching out his leg, he settled his foot comfortably on the little stool, then pulled the edge of his tunica up to reveal his right thigh. It was immediately obvious that something was wrong. Where the inside of a man's thigh should be muscular or even plump, his had a distinctive hollow where muscle bundles had been cut, and then atrophied. And right at the top of the hollow in his thigh, one end disappearing under the fabric of his tunica where it covered his groin, was a scar; silvered with age but longer and uglier than the one on Ione's collarbone. Hers wasn't even in the same league. He watched her face to gauge her reaction. Around the hollow in his thigh, the intact muscles stood out in stark relief, overdeveloped from compensating for those lost, and currently cramping. His skin was red in patches where he'd been trying to pummel them into submission. He gestured wordlessly to his leg, then leaned back slightly in his chair, trying to will the offended muscles to relax as much as possible. Where did you serve, sir? Did she really want to know? Or was she just making conversation. It could be either. And if the latter, she hid it well. He re-affirmed his thoughts that she was wasted on the Elysium. "In Britannia mostly. I did two tours there." He said briefly, thinking of that cold, wet land, so different to Italia, and trying not to think of his last battle there. "Are you really from Crete?" He asked in turn. @Sara

It feels like I have been waiting forever. "I know; I'm sorry." She probably didn't mean it as a reprove, but he was well aware that he had promised her a walk weeks ago and not delivered. "I would far rather be here with you than at some tedious Senate session." He said, with both honesty and a touch of guilt. His participation in the Senate was important for the good of the Empire, which he lived to serve. This... this was entirely selfish. He didn't allow himself many selfish things, but enjoying Sosia's company was one of them. His gaze dropped to the rare winter bloom that she held twisting in her fingers. Like her it was a bright and joyful relief; it from the cold harshness of winter and she from the political machinations of those around him. And both were beautiful. "A winter bloom, so rare to see Fair promise of the spring to come Yet still not quite as fair as thee Thou bright reprieve from all that's glum." He gave her a shy smile, and then he blushed. The words needed work, ideally pondered for hours, but he was no philosopher with that kind of time. He had to make do with spur of the moment. @Atrice

Her new young friend seemed quite happy at the prospect of drinking more than his fair share of the wine, and generally enjoying the night. It was heartwarming in a way, even though Varinia didn't feel quite so uninhibited. When did I grow old? Marcus was missing his friend, but unable to find him seemed content with her company. Which was fine by her though, as with almost everyone she met, she wished she could solve the problem of his missing friend for him. Ah well, if the Gods were good he'd show up in the morning, probably with a hangover. What about you, Varinia? How come you're out all alone on Saturnalia? It was a good question, and she wasn't immediately certain how much to say. After all, part of the point of Saturnalia was that you weren't supposed to know someone's standing in society, so that everyone might mingle freely, equals before the Gods. But it was because of her change in standing that she was on her own this particular night. She considered it a moment, then decided that she didn't care. The truth was what it was. "I was freed recently, Marcus." She said gently. "My old friends are still slaves, and... I am still making new ones." And there it was. She probably could have sought them out, but she didn't know if she would be welcome. Her thoughts drifted for a moment to Tertius, but she'd promised herself that she wouldn't cause trouble there. Still, if he magically appeared before her this night, she wouldn't complain. But the Fates had brought her this young man here, and whilst she might not be certain she felt connection to all the Roman Gods, there were enough parallels to some from her own people that she wouldn't turn down what she was given. "I didn't feel I could rub that in their faces this night." And that was it really. It was all very well to say that social standing didn't matter, but it would matter in the morning. "It's a big change. One I'm guessing you'll never have to worry about." She was pretty certain that her new friend was a Patrician, if not an Imperial himself. @Atrice

As though summoned by the thought, one word in a familiar voice floated on the wind from just nearby. "Jason." Tiberius never called loudly. He trusted his body slave to be near enough to hear him. And he always was. @Atrice@Sharpie

Aren't we all just grumpy old bastards with some good days in between? "All too true I fear." He laughed in spite of himself. It felt good to talk to someone who understood. Yes they were different in many ways, but they'd also had some of the same experiences, and were of a similar age. He hadn't felt that level of comradeship for some time. Theo claimed to know a place that served food, and soon they had a bag of pastries and buns that smelled decidedly good. He had a feeling it would be a good evening. Have you been to the games at the Amphitheater before? "I have." He said mildly. "I go sometimes, though I can't say I follow any particular gladiator closely. Much the same as the races." But it was a nice day out and didn't tax his leg. "Actually, I bumped into a gladiatrix the other day." Quite literally. "Well, ex-gladiatrix. Now an Imperial bodyguard for one of the Princesses apparently." Which had resulted in a surprisingly interesting conversation. "She was quite the Amazon but I suppose that's the expected look." All blonde braids and leather armour. He still wasn't quite certain what he made of her, but then he supposed he didn't have to make anything. She just was. "I suppose you must treat them as well." It was interesting, thinking about the workings of the ludus rather than just watching the fighting mindlessly. @Chevi

A wave of relief followed Horatia's declining to rise to his challenge and chaperone Tiberius and Sosia in the gardens. Much as she seemed like a fine lady, he didn't really want her there during his precious time with her cousin, even as he knew he shouldn't want that time with Sosia as much as he did. And she gave an entirely acceptable excuse. Though he hadn't commented on her swollen belly, it hadn't escaped his notice. "Of course. May Juno and the Parcae bless you." He replied, acknowledging the obvious now that she'd drawn attention to it. Of course, nothing was certain, or even probable until the child was named on it's eighth or ninth day. There was a long gap between Horatia's last live child and this pregnancy, so Tiberius assumed that there had been others lost. But this one was well along at least; he hoped for both her and Aulus' sakes that it resulted in a healthy child; and a healthy mother. "It's not that uninteresting." He assured her. "After all, one takes a wife in the hope of children." Something that he was all too aware of. "I don't doubt that our Consul is pleased." He added with a twinkle in his eye beyond his years. He knew that Aulus was fond of his wife, and that he only had one son. No doubt there was hope for that reassuring second. Plus if Horatia bore a live child, she would then gain further freedoms. It would be good for the whole family. Her next question was a good one. What were his plans for the future? "I intend to continue the cursus honorum." He replied. "I'll go where my military service takes me. Then I'll stand for Quaestor in my year." And given his heritage there was little doubt he'd achieve that. But that was eight years away. "And in the time between I'll seek a wife." He said simply. As the pater familias and last male of his line he felt a responsibility. And of course, once he had an heir of his own he'd come fully into his inheritance, which was substantial. "From there I will do what I can for my family, just as any man." For like any other Patrician he would have his own responsibilities. "All whilst supporting Titus Augustus as needed, of course." Any call his brother might have on him would trump his own plans. "I am hopeful that my plans may align with the Consul's for at least part of my military service, but I am sure that you and he have your own plans." Her son Titus would no doubt stand for the vigintiviri in a few years, and then on to his own military service. Her daughter would come of age, and hopefully there would be a new child. @Sara

Some young women might find that quality entertainment a bit... unnerving... Another piece of the mosaic was added, creating a larger picture. Ovinia had been upset at the party, but she'd blamed the incident on the boys teasing her about her brother, whom if he recalled correctly was older and in the military and likely capable of taking care of himself. So Marcus had invited someone for the entertainment who had upset Ovinia. Whilst Tiberius was inclined to trust someone until given reason not to, here it seemed he was being given reason to at least vet the entertainment if Marcus was doing the organising. "I see." He said evenly. "Thank you." He did appreciate the subtle warning; he and Marcus were good friends, but he would not let friendship blind him. Admitedly, he had come to suspect that Marcus would need some guidance if he was to become the political success required to restore his family's name. Tiberius could provide that guidance, providing that Marcus would listen to him. That remained to be seen. Right now however his attention was on Lucius, who had also been at that party, the start of their acquaintance. "Don't apologise, I asked you here." He reminded the other man. He'd wanted to speak with him. "But of course you have work to do. It is I who should not keep you."He offered the other a friendly smile. "Thank you for meeting with me, and I wish you all the best on your new road." @Chevi

Was he? Was that charming? He'd heard that Marcus was considered charming, or at least got on well with ladies. Marcus was his friend whom he was very fond of, but he knew that they had different priorities in life. Had some of that rubbed off on Tiberius? "Is that a good thing or a bad thing?" He asked, only half in jest. The eye roll suggested that it wasn't all good. Flirting was an area in which Tiberius was far less confident than he was in, say, politics. It hadn't exactly been part of the curriculum. But then he'd never really looked for more than to make the other person smile. At least until Sosia came along. Then suddenly he became aware of women in a way that went beyond his one boyhood crush. Ovinia was very different to Sosia, but her obvious intellect was surprisingly appealing. Perhaps Aulus was on to something. Still, he'd always assumed that Quintus would simply make appropriate arrangements when the time was right; except that Quintus was now retired to his villa and estates, and Tiberius was suddenly on his own footing. Military service would be an exciting next step, he was looking forward to it, and the chance to finally see a bit of the Empire. But Ovinia's words caught him off guard. "Will I?" He asked, giving an awkward, slightly embarassed smile. He recalled for a moment Lucius's comment that there'd been graffiti about him on the walls, and not all of it bad. Of course, he was born and trained to make a positive difference to the people of Rome and of the Empire, but it felt both pleasing and a little odd to realise that there would be a response to his efforts. He expected to pay attention to the people of Rome; he didn't really expect them to pay attention to him. "I'll miss people here." He admitted. "Sometimes it feels like we're only just all getting to know each other and come into our own; our generation." Of course the women his age were either married or soon would be, and to older men, whilst he was expected to wed in a few years time to a younger woman. But that didn't mean that they couldn't be friends. If there's no suitable match for me... He supposed that was her life now, at her age. His twin was the same, and he'd been putting off having a conversation to that effect with Claudia. Was there such a shortage of good men? "I'm sure you could phrase a request to go to Hispania in a way your father would approve." He replied, thinking that Ovinia could probably be surprisingly persuasive. But then he only knew her father by reputation. But what could he recommend to young ladies over winter? He really had no ready idea, but gave it thought since she asked. "If your father feels Achaea is too far, there's always Sicillia, which is far warmer." He suggested. It was also part of Italia. "Do you enjoy the theatre?" He asked. "The better ones are like good literature, brought to life." But he was hardly the person to recommend a lady's entertainments. "What would you like to do, if you could anything?" He asked, curious. Was the answer simply to travel a little? Or was there more? @Sara

Tiberius watched with interest as Jason's hand on the impatient horse's chest caused Ignis to step backwards. His slave had done similar a few times in the last few minutes; putting pressure on the horse to get him to move in the opposite direction, and Ignis seemed content to oblige. Interesting. No forcing, no dragging him around by the reins, just gentle pressure, to which Ignis seemed naturally inclined to respond. He pondered what pressures people might be naturally inclined to respond to. But right here and now he was learning about horses. "I do, if you have no reason not to." Tiberius replied. If Jason really didn't want to he wouldn't force him, but he had his reasons. "I suspect you can teach me as much from his back as on the ground." And if that meant that Tiberius could have an easier time riding the horse, working with him instead of against him, then so much the better. @Sharpie

It had been a long day. His leg was aching from the distance they'd walked, not because he couldn't walk that far but because he'd already walked a fair distance that day. He'd had to face the fact that he had a limit, and there were consequences for exceeding it. But ceding the litter to Pinaria had been the right thing to do; an injured woman - and a high class one at that - took precedence. Now at least they had reached her home, and she could receive the care and the comfort that she deserved. Given that she lived with her brother, that wouldn't even be the comfort of a husband. He wondered idly whether she was only recently divorced or widowed or whether, like him, she paid the tax. None of which was his business, but he took an interest in people. She was helped from the litter and he stood aside, letting her familiar slaves aid her now that she was home. Her words of thanks were answered with a bow. "I am glad have served, and that Janus and Mercury guided me to you." He replied, naming the Gods of passageways and travellers. They were also the gods of new beginnings and financial gain respectfully, and with the introduction to her brother either might still have some part to play. "Rest well Lady." Once she had been ushered inside Spurius followed, going where the household slaves indicated, knowing that the twins would wait in the atrium. He was curious to meet this brother. @Atrice

Varinia was taking her new life one step at a time, very deliberately. There was a lot to get used to, and to explore. Whilst she'd taken over the running of Teutus's household for him, she'd started with the basics and, only once she'd set those to rights, had she begun to consider little luxuries. True, the sudden influx of four slaves had been a bit of a shock, but they were now working together as a household and beyond that she'd been careful not to get ahead of herself until she'd thought things through. It was very much the same with her personal life. She was reunited with her son, and she was relishing that. The next step had been to talk to Tertius and see where they stood with each other, which was what she was doing now and it was going very well. Only when all that was set to rights would she give any thought to the possibility of another man in her life. She had loved Tertius, still did in a way, and despite the pain she knew Peregrinus had caused Teutus, she did not begrudge him his little family. She wished the man before her only happiness, knowing that she already had her own, at last. She resolved that she would not pine for might have beens, that way lay only sadness and resentment, and she would try to help her son do the same. That way they could all be happy. Tertius's smile, and his confirmation that they could work together for Teutus's sake, brought an answering smile to Varinia's lips. Why did Teutus - and indeed Alexius - think he was unreasonable? All she'd had to do was ask. "No, we're not the children we were." She agreed warmly. "And we can arrange things to suit us this time." A friendship with Tertius would be a very fine thing. True, the girl she'd once been might mourn the loss of a dream, but the woman she'd become was quite satisfied, and grateful, that the man she'd known since they were both young - perhaps knew better than most - seemed to welcome friendship with her. She lifted her cup to echo him. "To our friendship." She tapped her cup to his, then took a sip. "Thank you Tertius. It is good to see you again." @Atrice

It was interesting that this man knew both Teutus and Charis. How had he come to know a slave in Tertius's household, since he didn't apparently know Tertius? But Teutus had said that he was friends with Charis, so perhaps that was the connection. It was a complicated web that they all wove and Varinia was still feeling her way along it, one careful step at a time. Still, her heart ached for her boy when Alexius explained how he'd met Teutus. "I know it was hard for him." Because Teutus had told her. It had been hard for her too, when Tertius had rejected the son she had given him. "Tertius couldn't recognise Teutus when he was born; it would have had to have been his father Publius, who was still alive then." She explained. "Publius was not happy when Tertius got me pregnant, and he still had two sons, I assume he felt he had no need of a slave's bastard as a grandson." Those were the facts of the matter, which didn't make the pain that Teutus felt any less. "I was devastated, but I've come to terms with it." It wasn't like she had any choice. Now she had to help her son come to terms with it. Of course, if Varinia'd had her preference, Teutus would have been born free to another man in a village in Gaul, and neither of them would ever have known what it was to be a slave. She smiled slightly as Alexius warned her about the complexities that Tertius seemed to create in people's lives. "I willl be careful." She assured him, touched that he cared enough to warn her. "I know Tertius, like few others know him. But I know he will have changed." How much remained to be seen. She shrugged slightly. "We shall see." And really that was all that could be said. "Can I get you anything else to eat, Alexius?" @Atrice

Aeneas grinned at Thessala's enthusiastic agreement; the idea of working with the fierce gladiatrice to develop this new form of team combat spurred his enthusiasm for what had initially been an idle idea. He knew she was particularly popular with the crowds for her flamboyant style and dual wielding abilities, and he himself was left handed; together they could make quite the unexpected combination. And if it was his fate to return to the ludus for now, he might as well hitch his chariot to her rising star. Assuming, as she pointed out, he could keep up. "We weel hae tae see, hmm?" He replied cheekily. "I weel try tae gie ye a run fer yer money." He added with a wiink. Unlike some men, Aeneas didn't scoff at the idea of woman fighting; plenty of women did in his own clan and he'd grown up with the concept. But Romans were a bit funny about women; they seemed to assume they could only keep a house and have babies. Those were things women did, of course, but not the only things. Certainly not in the ludus. Oh yes, the earthquake. That had been a nasty piece of business, felt throughout Rome. Aeneas sucked a breath in through his teeth. "T'wasnae guid up on the hill, but I kin imagine it wuid hae been much worse doon here." He commisserated. " Much as I wuid like the Gods tae gie the Romans their just rewards," he murmured quietly, "I wuid rather they didnae take the rest o' us doon as weel." Had the Gods been angry? Were they still? @Chevi