Sarah

It felt... good, to be around family again. Grounding. A reminder of what was important, as well as the support of those to whom he was close. He'd missed that whilst in Achaea, in the wake of Lucia's death; missed it without realising that he had. Now that he was back, falling into the rhythms of family doings made that interconnectedness so much clearer. He was not pater familias yet, but even the head of the family was not an island, but surrounded by his peers. Publius appreciated Aulus inviting him to a family dinner. Dressed in his finest toga, Publius reclined on a couch in the triclinium of Calpurnius Praetextatus that overlooked their garden. It was a fine house, worthy of his sister who obviously kept it well. They'd proven an excellent match. As had he and Lucia. Now that space in the household was empty. It needed filling, but he wasn't going to think about that tonight. Rather he was curious about what his brother in law planned, when the man requested their indulgence and summoned one of his slaves. @Sharpie @Chevi @Sara

The smile on Ione's face when he spoke her name was almost pathetic in it's obvious joy and lack of any calculation or guile, but in truth that was what he liked about her, and to see her smile so brightly was oddly warming. She was such a terrible prostitute, and fit so comfortably into the crook of his arm that Spurius felt an odd contentment as he held her. It just felt nice to have her there. His attention turned to the other girl she'd brought with her as she answered his questions. Arrina. Not a name he recognised, but slaves acquired all sorts of odd nomens. She was appropriately demure and claimed to be grateful. He supposed that, like Ione, this was likely the most comfortably job she would do all week. And she claimed she understood; well and good. "You may." He responded simply, when Arrina asked his leave to attend to her duties. If anything she looked more confident in this space; either an experienced prostitute or someone accustomed to such surroundings. Either way Armenius had done well in her. He watched her move away, to the correct set of stairs, and nodded ever so slightly to himself. Good. Thank you for this. I hope Arrina is good enough? He was a little surprised when Ione spoke up, but she was only seeking his approval. "She should be, if she can fit into our routines as well as you have." He replied mildly, with a second glance at the stairs. Hopefully that would be the case. "Did you choose her, or Amenius?" He asked, interested. Either could have made a good selection, though if her master had picked the girl there might be more to that choice. @Sara

It always feels like guesswork, with Father. Varinia nodded gently where she leaned against his shoulder, and sighed, thinking back to that first reunion with Tertius. It would be impossible to make such lovely sons without such lovely mothers. Perhaps it had been a throwaway line, but Varinia had an inkling that there might have been more to it. "He does love you Makki, he told me so." She said earnestly, trying to think through both the present and the past, to find what it was that made things so difficult between the two men in her life. "There was a lot of pain around your birth, and not just mine." She tried to explain, remembering back across the years. "His father was furious. There was an argument. Then his father sent him and Secundus to Germania, either as punishment or prevention." That had hurt. There she was with a new baby, and the young man whom she loved and who was his father was gone. "When they came back, years later, you were already a boy running around, and Tertius carefully avoided us, probably on his father's orders." As pater familias, Marcus could have punished Tertius further. "Please don't think that he didn't want to be there for you." She liked to think that he had wanted that. "He wasn't allowed to be a father to you; he almost had to pretend you didn't exist. So he never got to play with you when you were little, or sit you on his knee and tell you stories. And you never got to have a father in your life as a child." Which made her deeply sad, when she thought about it. Unbidden, a tear trickled down her cheek. What her younger self wouldn't have given to have Tertius hold his son. She drew a deep breath before she spoke again. "You were what, fifteen summers, when Tertius left and took you with him? I can only think that it's hard to suddenly start trying to be a father, when your son is already a man." As strongly as Teutus wanted that fatherly affection and understanding, Tertius seemed to struggle to suddenly provide it. All because she'd been a fool and fallen for a Roman. But if she hadn't she would have no son. There was no right answer. And apparently there was no right answer, or no clear answer from Tertius. No indication as to what he really wanted, or was thinking "Have you asked him?" She asked curiously, looking up at her son. "I mean directly, just asked him outright." She added, in case she wasn't clear. "Call it a former slave's lack of finesse, but when I visited I just asked questions, and told him what I wanted, and I got answers." Had Teutus tried just being blunt with his father? Or was it that Tertius didn't have the answers, when it came to his son. "Sorry, I'm not trying to lecture. I just want to fix everything for you." She bumped against his shoulder again. "Call it a mother's instinct." Yes she wanted to meddle and make everything right. "Perhaps we both need to accept that some things can't be fixed, and hope that they can come right with time." She suggested. "After all, we did." And she was eternally grateful for that. He seemed as happy to have her with him, as they discussed the possibility of future marriages, and how that might shape the household. "I'm in no hurry to wed." She'd told Tertius the same thing. "Just promise me that we can always talk Makki. If you find a girl and want me to move out, or want something different, just say so, and we'll talk it through and work it out. I promise I'll always listen." She smiled at him. Communication was key, and if he couldn't communicate effectively with his father, she could at least give him the assurance that he wouldn't have the same problem with her. @Sharpie

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

Jason looked, if anything, somewhat shocked, then a slow, slightly hesitant smile appeared. Tiberius hoped that he would not come to regret giving Jason access to the horses, but as with attempts to change attitudes towards slaves, there was only one way to find out. He didn't think he'd read the man wrong, and what greater gift to one raised to live alongside horses? Jason's hand moved to the tattoo on his neck, a bird of prey stooping to catch something. It had been there as long as the prince had known him, probably pre-dated his enslavement for it wasn't the sort that Romans tended to put on slaves, but he'd never paid it much attention, until now. "Can I ask about your tattoo?" He said, framing his words with the respect of one who knew he didn't understand the other's culture. He could demand, of course, but he chose not to. He would be the change he wanted to see, and a tattoo could be very personal. He'd given Jason what he thought his body slave would value most - time with the horses - and then he offered that which Tiberius himself valued most. The ability to read opened worlds, and for a slave it could open opportunities. "I don't see why not." Tiberius said, on the subject of Jason learning the skill. Yes he was older, but he was clearly no slouch intellectually. Once again, there was only one way to find out. But Tiberius wouldn't insist if his slave didn't seem to take to it. Rather he was pleased that Jason not only agreed to teach him to ride, but said he'd be honoured to. The chance to learn to ride and understand horses like Jason did was a great opportunity. Then Jason asked something that made Tiberius frown slightly, not in displeasure, but in concentration as he searched his memory. "Stirrups are those foot-hook things, aren't they?" The ones the tribes of steppe nomads used. Jason's people. "Don't you get tangled in them?" With one's feet free you could wrap them firmly around the body of the horse at a run, and stick like a burr to it's back. @Sharpie

Imperial Area - Grown Ups Section It had been a bit of an odd invitation. Claudius Sabucius had invited pre-eminent Senatore families to join him at the races, with those of his own generation invited to the inner most circle, with the older generations close by. Apparently the young man had done similar before, hosting a youth event at the palace. At least this was more inclusive, though frankly Publius was content not to be sitting in the middle of the bored young things. Rather he looked forward to the opportunity to speak with his peers, should any decide to take up Caesar's brother's invitation. As he entered the Imperial area, Publius looked up at Caesar himself, sat with the Goddess, and bowed respectfully. So young. Both of them were so young. The loss of his wife hadn't been the only tragedy that year; Quintus's health had failed and he'd abdicated in favour of his son, who clearly had a right hand man in his brother. The whole of the Empire in very young hands made Publius uneasy, but at least he knew that they were not without guidance and counsel. His friend Aulus was one of those counsellors; perhaps he and Horatia would be joining them today, with their family. Publius's own two children were in tow, Spurius wasn't quite old enough to join the up and coming young things at Sabucius's side, but he would be soon. So the two sat nearby as Publius settled himself close enough to where the young ones were that he could observe who was speaking to whom and try to figure out the power relationships. @Atrice @Sara @Sharpie

Imperial Area "Salve Marcus." Tiberius responded with the ease of familiarity, since his closest friend lived with him. "The hair looks good." He added, thinking that Marcus cut a fine figure as a young man on the cursus honorum, rather than a rich layabout. He had faith in his friend. "All the young ladies will be ignoring me." He joked. Marcus had that easy-going nature that seemed to make everyone comfortable around him. Titus was the same, which was why he made a good Caesar. Tiberius was always a little more formal, a little more careful, and much more studious. If he hadn't been an Imperial he'd probably have gone into law. He might still. The riders were lining up at the start, the race officials checking the horses' harnesses and saddles. Jason was watching intently and Tiberius thought that he could see his cousin on one of the Whites horses. "If you want to place a wager," he said quietly to Marcus, "put it on the further of the two Whites riders; the one with the dark hair." Nothing was ever guaranteed, but knowing Jason and Azarion's heritage, that was where Tiberius would put his money, if he was a betting man. Which he wasn't; he preferred surety to gambling. But his friend might? That was up to Marcus. It wasn't long before those whom he had invited started arriving and Tiberius turned to see two similar faces, one more familiar and one less. Ovinia Camilla and one of her brothers; the middle one if he recalled correctly, who'd only come back from Hispania just before the party at the palace. "Ovinia Camilla." He acknowledged. "And Lucius Ovinius Camillus." Yep, middle brother. He recalled that the youngest was conveniently named Tertius. "It was my pleasure, and if you're late, then others are later." He gestured to the so far empty seating around himself and Marcus, indicating both that they were comparatively on time, and that they might sit where they liked. "I hope you'll enjoy the races." He said to both, before focusing on Ovinia. "I do recall that you wanted to see them." And an Imperial invitation was something that could make that happen. @Sara @Atrice

Imperial Area Do not make any comments about me making us late. Lucius raised silent brows in a wronged 'who, me?' expression as the two of them made their way through the stands towards the section reserved for the Imperials and their guests. Ovinia had come through, getting them an invitation not just to some Senator's party, but to the Imperial box at the Cerealia races! Directly above was Caesar himself, seated with the statue of the Ceres, meant to be imbued with the essence of the Goddess herself during her celebrations. And below was Caesar's adoptive brother, actual cousin and son of Caesar Claudius, sitting in the shade amidst slaves and Patrician companions, looking for all the world like he owned the place, which Lucius supposed he sort of did. He'd only seen him a couple of times, but he was struck by the man's youth, and had to admit quietly to himself that he found the fellow a bit underwhelming. Slight and not overly tall, according to his sister he was far more an academic than a military leader. Perhaps the Cursus honorum would change that. The fellow sat beside him was even younger, yet somehow struck Lucius as having more of a personality, with that easy smile and slightly touselled blonde hair, now shorter than he remembered. He'd been at the palace party, now so many months ago. What was his name? Fortunately Ovinia, being the primary invitee, took charge of introductions. Junius Silanus; that was it. Marcus, the younger brother. Another scion of a proud lineage, though rumour held that the family had experienced some trouble. Clearly not too much, if he sat at Caesar's brother's right hand. "Of course." Lucius smiled. "We met very briefly at the palace party." But all the young men seemed to have other, more female things on their respective minds that night. "It's an honour and a pleasure to meet you again." He bowed respectfully to Tiberius, and included a respectful not for Marcus. Then he glanced about, but so far Ovinia seemed to be the first young woman who had arrived. How disappointing. His hopes for a princess were so far not materialising. @Sara@Atrice

The first to arrive didn't come from one of the insula flats, but through the doorway from the street. A young fellow with dark hair whom Varinia didn't recognise. Perhaps he'd gone out early, or perhaps he was a friend of someone who lived there? He looked a little nervous so Varinia smiled at him over her basket. "Salve! Come in." She called, still fussing with her flowers. "What a day. I've been looking forward to the celebrations." She twittered, in a high mood. It was the truth though, the various feasts and festivals were what broke up the monotony of life for the Plebians, Freedmen and Slaves, and now that she was free she was determined to make the most of them. "I don't think we've met. I'm Varinia." She told him. "Would you like a cake?" Because everyone was going to get fed, possibly whether they wanted it or not. @Chevi

Something he'd learned about people over the years; they often didn't want ideas that challenged what was normal to them, even if normal looked awful from the outside. Confrontation only brought resistance. But placing the idea out there so that it stewed in the back of their minds and one day became their idea, so that they could suggest it and own it, was often far more effective. Of course, he could be reading the situation completely wrong; she might well have fallen. He just didn't think so. So he left the paperwork with the card exposed, but made no further comment on her bruise. He knew she'd seen it. Like most people she'd taken a nosy look at his paperwork, which he'd counted on, focused on what was there such that she'd almost missed the question. So, the idea was planted. Perhaps one day she might want it, and then it would be there. "Actually, leek and potato soup sounds delicious. With a slice of bread and cheese please." Best of both worlds. His mother made leek and potato soup, the words conjured up the taste. He waved away her suggestion that he was important with a faint smile. "I'm just another patron." He assured her. Just someone taking up space in the pub, having lunch. Yes he wore a suit, but he hadn't always and his father didn't. The old man had sniffed at the idea of going to university, before eventually conceding that a job that was mostly quiet save for the courtroom might suit his son that still jumped at loud noises better. And then he'd seen the results of the paycheck. Iona came back with his glass of lemonade, and Spurius already had some legislation document open on his laptop. Nothing to hide, it was available to anyone who could navigate the convoluted government websites. "Thank you." He said with a smile, as she set the glass down, then sighed good-humouredly at her question. "Always busy, I'm afraid. But I only do one afternoon a week with the charitable law group, so I need to cover as much as I can in that time." He replied, and odd little smile curving one half of his mouth for a moment. "Help as many people as I can." Which sounded more human than 'cases'. Because each case was a person. "What about you? Is the beer garden hopping again?" The warm weather surely had to be good for business. @Sara

It was always a bit of a mixed bag, taking a job lot from a household that was reorganising, for whatever reason. According to his factor who'd found them, their dominus was taking up a post in Judea, and only taking some of the household with him. Not uncommon, and it was under such circumstances that Spurius often ended up with a batch of slaves that could be anything from nigh on useless to very valuable, but usually spread somewhere in between. It was up to him, as the experienced slave trader, to sort through them, judge their skills and worth, and put a price on them. He was good at it, and he took care that the right slaves went to the right owners; it was part of why his business was so successful. The slaves had been given a light meal of boiled grains, and those who needed it had been given a tunica each, along with the simple wool square that could be a cloak or a blanket. Slaves were much easier to handle when they were comfortable. Spurius was working his way through the new acquisitions, questioning them over their skills and previous duties, making notes on his wax tablet. Having finished with a middle aged woman who'd been a housekeeper, the next in the row was a youngish man with dark, curly hair, broad brows and full lips suggestive of some foreign parentage. Spurius saws a lot like that; he kept a pair himself. The twins had a Roman father and a Germanic mother. Or this young man might have several generations of mixed heritage. He might even know. "What did your dominus call you?" He asked, fixing his hazel gaze on the young fellow. Not 'what is your name'; slaves had whatever name they were given. Spurius wanted to know what name he'd last been given, more to see whether it needed to be changed. Some people called their slaves all sorts of fanciful things, which future owners then didn't care for. What worked best at sale was something simple and easy to pronounce; of the new owner wanted something different, that was their prerogative. @Sharpie

July 77AD * Good things come to those who wait - Tiberius, Publius, Aulus, Horatia etc * All Change - Spurius and Davus

Curiosity was how you found out about the world and how it worked, to Tiberius's way of thinking. Assuming that you already knew everything you needed to know seemed the height of arrogance. How amused might he have been to know her thoughts? Both were young nobles, but with very different backgrounds and different views on the world. They have bigger homes. But we do not need big homes to be impressive. Both the young nobles smirked, though presumably for different reasons. Tiberius wondered how impressive a Roman contingent would find Hilda's grandfather's dwelling. One might call themselves a chieftain, but if they lived in little more than a mud hut, how much were they really chieftain of? That was the thing. Every little valley and mountain had it's own chieftain who acted like he was on par with the ruler of an Empire; they were only comparable in arrogance. Much like their daughters, it seemed. Hilda certainly had the attitude down pat. But Tiberius was more interested in what lay behind the attitude, and the glimpses she gave him into life amongst the Chatti. Closer. It was an interesting thought. For a moment his own thoughts drifted back to the mother he'd barely known, and the father he'd known not at all. It might be nice to be closer. Then again, a plebian family in a small insula were closer. You've visited somewhere else? Or only ever been in Rome? "I've been to countryside villas." He said, knowing that wasn't what she meant. For a moment he regarded the wall decorations thoughtfully, as they moved towards the triclinium. "It's no secret that there was a lot of political unrest when I was young, and quite a few of my family were killed." Anyone could hear about the purges for the asking. "Those of us who remained stayed close." So no, he hadn't seen much of the Empire. "But that will change with my military service; I'll travel with my legion." Which was one of the reasons he was looking forward to the next stage. This first year was all military education so far; interesting but still in Rome. "There must be times amongst your people when who holds the title of Chieftain is disputed?" There were always people hungry for power. "I have read accounts of the travels of many." Which wasn't the same thing at all. "But you've crossed a portion of the Empire to get here; you must have seen things of interest." He suggested, wondering whether she'd tell him.

The door swung open and there stood his sister, graceful and regal, a sight for sore eyes. She was the eldest of his siblings and had always been the closest; the twins were always thick as thieves. He was old enough to remember when she was born; he'd watched her grow up. Now she was a matron of her own household with children of her own. When had they grown so big? Likely she thought the same of his. For all that had happened, he felt his heart lift as she spoke his name and laughed her light, delighted laugh, whilst her children grinned, leaning down a little as she moved in swiftly to kiss his cheek, catching her briefly by the shoulders in the closest he would come to a hug. "Horatia." He returned warmly. Did the children remember their cousins? Of course they did, and their respectful nods were at odds with their broad smiles. They were happy to be here, and happy to be home in Rome. But what was this? Horatia suddenly wore a coy little smile. Brother, this is Quintus. One of the slaves stepped forward, a bundle in her arms. An infant. They all looked the same to Publius, but the pride in his sister's tone was obvious. He peered at the little, sleeping face, a picture of health. She'd given Aulus another son. A strange mix of emotions washed over him. In many ways his family and Aulus's had echoed each other; two children, a boy and a girl, then no more. Lucia had lost pregnancy after pregnancy early, and he'd sort of assumed that Horatia had done the same, though of course he'd never ask and she'd never tell. Then Lucia had finally carried again, only to loose both the child and her own life. The thought that Horatia had risked the same chilled him, whilst at the same time there was both joy and a little jealousy that she'd bourne a healthy son at the end of it. He knew it was a woman's lot to risk life to bring forth life, but that was all well and good until it was his own wife who lost that gamble. And Horatia was still with Aulus, whilst he was alone. But his sorrow was none of her fault, and he would be forever grateful that his sister and her son were healthy; only sad that his own wife and son had been lost. "Quintus." He echoed. "For Quintus Augustus, I assume?" Please tell me she didn't lose two more children. For the name meant 'the fifth'. "Congratulations." He said warmly, and meant it. "I will make offerings to the Gods in thanks, for you and your son." For his tiny child was family. There were many dangers in a young life, so many children didn't make it, but Patrician families had the best of everything, and their other two were healthy, as were his. Let this one grow and bring joy to his parents' hearts as well. Movement in the atrium completed their little gathering, as his brother-in-law made his appearance. "Aulus. Too long indeed. I am well." Or well enough at least. He inclined his head at his friend's condolences. "Thank you." There'd been the cremation and interment and funerary rights of course, for both Lucia and their son, but he hadn't stayed in Rome long after that, finding it easier to leave than to be constantly reminded. Her ghost would always be in the corner of his eye, but today was not a day for mourning but for renewing family ties. "Allow me to offer my congratulations on your young son." @Sara @Sharpie

Two girls. As requested. I shall be back within the hour if that suits? "Indeed." Spurius replied, politely but cooly, with the reserve he used with slaves and those who served others. He didn't much care for Ione's guard but he supposed the man had a job to do. Did he guard the girls when they trawled the streets or tabernae? Hopefully. He knew that she and her colleagues must do that of course, it was what prostitutes did, but mentally putting Ione into that picture was discomforting. But she was here, ill-fitting tunia and undone hair and all, and to his eyes she was a welcome sight. His gaze moved to the other woman with her. Dark haired, voluptuous and tanned, she was quite beautiful and, if one were being brutally honest, more conventionally attractive than Ione herself. She had to be one of Valerius's newer acquisitions, and it was good to see that the man was already improving his stock. One might have been tempted to take Arrina and leave Ione to the twins, but Spurius would be the first to admit that he hadn't chosed the girl purely for her looks. His first instinct was to focus on the new girl, get her sorted out, before turning his attention to Ione, but the memory of how well that sort of thing had turned out last week gave him pause. He still felt that odd awkwardness in the situation, but he gave a tight smile and held a hand out in Ione's direction. "Ione." The implication that she should come to him was clear, and once she did he put an arm around her, feeling her warmth through the course fabric of her tunic. Then he focused on the other girl. "What is your name?" He asked bluntly. "Did Ione explain the arrangement here?" It would make things so much easier if she had. Hopefully this girl would fit into their routines as easily as Ione had. He was cautious about welcoming a second girl in, but hopefully she'd be as grateful, and suit them well. "Romulus is upstairs waiting for you." He indicated the stairs that led to the storage rooms and slave quarters. "You'll just serve him today." Remus was in trouble for breaking Ione's belt last week, and had lost prostitute privileges this week. "Afterwards you can wash, and Corva will give you something to eat." That should be simple enough. "Do you understand?" She really was quite pretty, Spurius couldn't see that the twins could be too sour over losing Ione if this girl was her replacement. @Sara

It was good to know that Valerius had no objections to continuing the arrangement he'd had with Titus regarding Ione and her coming to his domus. It suited Spurius and his household well and he had no issues with paying for the extra time that entailed. In fact he'd been rather surprised at how well the arrangement had worked out, given how poorly the business seemed to have been run previously, but the new owner clearly had ambitions to change that and that could only mean an improvement in quality and service for the customers, including him. The little smirk as he admitted that he'd used Ione as well was mildy annoying if entirely predictable, but perhaps Valerius realised the potential in the woman, which was fair enough. He certainly found her appealing. And he seemed to like the sound of the arrangement that Spurius suggested, which pleased the slave trader as well. It was the kind of arrangement that would work well for both of them, and who knew, he could even arrange for a girl or two to come to the warehouse on the odd occasion. There was a lot of potential there and he knew that, in helping Valerius get his building fixed up more quickly, he was ensuring Ione's accomodations and hopefully clientelle as well, which would mean no more bruises or scars. It all looked positive. "I'm glad you like the idea." He replied smoothly. "It seems only reasonable." Plus they could reduce the impact of taxes by trading in kind. Valerius's offer was unexpected, but Spurius supposed he'd want time to draw up that contract, and didn't need him wandering around annoying people. Which made perfect sense, save that it came up against Spurius's intense, instinctive privacy around his sex life, or rather lack thereof. But Ione had pleased him last time; they could do something. It struck him that it would be odd to refuse. "Very generous of you." He replied with a smile and a slight bow. "I believe I can find my way back to your office, we can formalise the arrangement." They hadn't actually gone too far. Poor Ione had been stuck there, nude, whilst the two men spoke, but Spurius had been ignoring her as one did with a slave one currently had no use for. Once they'd agreed, he turned his hazel gaze to her. He hadn't ever really thought to see the inside of her cell where she worked. @Atrice @Sara

Varinia followed Jannus's gaze to the chair with the whorled decorations carved into it's dark wood. "Pretty, isn't it?" She said quietly, almost a conspiritorial whisper. "I like that one too." She admitted. "Maybe one day." But not today. Teutus had told her that she could buy things but she had promised herself that she would stick to purchasing what was necessary, and just one or two little luxuries for now. He needed his money to grow his business, and she had high hopes for it's future. Like any mother, she knew her son was a genius and would be very successful. Jannus admitted that he would like to learn other skills, and Varinia smiled. They should make sure that happened then; it would improve his usefulness to Teutus and likely make Jannus feel better about himself too. There was nothing like having a useful skill to grow one's confidence; she'd felt that when she'd learned to weave and proven to have a talent for it. "I'll talk to Teutus. Olipor can read and write as well, and do sums. He could probably tutor you in the evenings." After all, the man had once been a children's tutor for an equite family, there was no reason he couldn't teach his fellow slave. At last the shop's slave returned from where ever he'd disappeared to, with a bundle of wooden pieces tied together with stout cord. Do you know how these go together? Yes, Varinia had used one before, she understood the upright loom. The wooden frame parts were handed to Jannus, and a reel of cord for it's assembly given to Varinia. She thanked the man and, with a last glance at the chair, led them back out of the shop. "I suppose we'd better get his lot back to the insula." She said to Jannus, rather glad that she had his strength to heft the heavier beams. "Thank you for coming." @Insignia

Apparently this was indeed the man in question, the one whom Roscianus and his companions had brought in, in the dead of night, and then raced to tell him about it. He didn't look particularly dangerous, roughed up and locked away, but the most venomous vipers rarely gave warning of their nature. Or so he'd learned in politics. He regarded the man with a bland expression. Was this the killer of Atratinus? The man who had attacked multiple citizens and many of them women? Jason said he enjoyed the sight of blood, which seemed to be his motive. Perhaps that was why so many of his victims lived; he wasn't out to kill. What then happened with the Senator? But there was no point in conjecturing in the silence of his own mind. "What is your name?" Tiberius asked the man bluntly. @Atrice

Plebian Area "Be careful what you wish for, the Gods might grant you a Blue in your lap." Came the dry comment from the tier above. Spurius had decided to sit closer to the track this time, interested to watch the horse racing and see how much it differed, if at all, from the chariots. The horses still intrigued him, with their grace and power - not to mention their gift of mobility - and riding without the chariot reminded him of the officers and their mounts during the time in the legions. Who the girl by the edge of the track was he didn't know, but she seemed to know the riders, or at least that rider. @Chevi

"I guess the slave taxes don't go far enough at times." Camillus observed dryly. The force of vigiles was thousands strong - though mostly slaves - and had to be funded from somewhere. The 4% tax on slave sales was their primary source. But he could hear what Roscianus was getting at. "You're saying that what you don't need is people like me poking around and letting the man know that you're onto him." Which was fair enough he supposed, even if it went strongly against what he'd like to do, which was Fix The Problem Now. But with no clue as to who this man was, and no desire to involve his sister further, his hands were currently tied. "I'll speak to father about the benefits of generosity in light of the vigiles' aid so far." He promised Roscianus. "Though I suspect any major generosity would be seen after the man's capture." Because he knew how his father's mind worked. "If you reach the point of running him to ground, and want more manpower, I can bring my legion cohort to assist." He offered. But he wouldn't until and unless the man asked him to. @Chevi

Tiberius suspected that Marcus's imprecation to not do anything he wouldn't did not leave much. But as his friend left with the admittedly beautiful Liana, the young Imperial's attention was focused on Vibia. She was the one his friend had recommended, and in that area Tiberius trusted Marcus's judgement. She certainly seemed very professional. Every movement was graceful, like a dance, and showed off her assets to their best advantage; he didn't doubt that it was deliberate. But he appreciated professionalism. It meant at least one of them knew what they were doing. Glass in hand, cithara held by a slave, Vibia was suddenly ready for a tour of the Villa on the way to his chambers. It was an easy enough distraction and Tiberius was happy to oblige, pointing out interesting architecture, sculpture or decoration, and relating what he knew of it's history as he led the way through the eastern peristyle. She was probably bored but if she was, he couldn't see evidence of it. Vibia seemed the perfect companion, interested and attentive. "And this is the master suite." He said at last, though that would be fairly obvious from the way the rooms were appointed. The mosiac floor was intricate, the door curtains ornate, the small table in the corner beautifully carved and it matched the trunk and large bed in the cubiculum itself. The wall plaster was brightly and skillfully painted, with scenes of rural landscapes framed by paint that was meant to look like carved marble. The bed itself, a lectus genialis with room for two, was made of several different woods, highly polished so that their different colours and grains gleamed, and inlaid in places with mother of pearl. Tiberius didn't normally need a double bed of course, but it was there. He felt a little awkward bringing Vibia into his bedroom, but that was rather the point. "I trust it's to your liking." He joked to cover his awkwardness. But he shouldn't be awkward about it, right? Men did this all the time, and apparently enjoyed it. Certainly his own private investigations had been enjoyable. And he'd hired Vibia, so she should do what he asked. He just had to... ask? Tiberius took a steadying breath, and offered the poised and beautiful woman a slightly wan smile. "I don't know how much Marcus said when he asked you to come." He began simply. "I... haven't taken a woman to my bed before, and he recommended you." He said, trying to be very matter of fact about it, whilst feeling far from it. But what good was political training if he couldn't keep a straight face and a steady voice? "He spoke very highly of you, in fact." He added, showing a flash of genuine amusement as he remembered his friend's interest in Vibia. He'd have to arrange for her to have a night with Marcus too. @Sara

The issue, it seemed, was not a lack of witnesses but a lack of a witness who could and would easily testify. "The witnesses I must leave to you." He said firmly, blue gaze on Roscianus. "An attack on a lady's persona is as grave as an attack on her person, but if his victims were mostly women then that deprives you of a great proportion of your witnesses." Was that what the man did, prey on women in the knowledge that they would not risk the damage to their reputation of appearing at court and coming under fire? Certainly that would be an easy way to conceal his activities. "Obviously it would be preferable to avoid torturing anyone unless absolutely necessary." Plus he was pretty certain that the slave who couldn't talk which Jason mentioned was his cousin. He was the only one that Tiberius knew who used hand signs only Jason could interpret. "Even Caesar Augustus, himself a great lawmaker, held that interrogation of slaves should be a last resort." Alexius spoke up with his own suggestion, but Tiberius shook his head. "A slave cannot be compelled to testify against his master." He said simply. That was already covered by law. "The risk of false testimony is too high." Which was a shame as it would also be an easy answer. He needed to think. He understood what they wanted, and he wasn't certain that he could give it to them. "I know what you want, but if I condemn the man based solely on your reports, then I become a tyrant." He tried to explain. "And what I do reflects on Titus Augustus. History shows us that the Empire does not need tyrants." Nor indeed take kindly to them. Of that he was quite certain. "Our system of courts and magistrates exists for good reason." It might not be a perfect system, but it was better than the alternative. "At the same time, if this man is the killer that you believe, then it is in Rome's interests that he not gain his freedom." And therein lay the difficulty. "If you can prove either that he killed Atratinus, or that he is responsible for multiple attacks, that would be enough to condemn him. You would not need to prove every attack." He looked at Roscianus. Did they have enough witnesses prepared to come forward to prove one or the other? He looked questioningly at the vigile. Tiberius would be more than happy to arrange the punishment once the man was condemned. @Atrice @Sains @Chevi @Sharpie

Tiberius had become interested in inheritance law because of his own background, but their family situations were very similar and what applied to him also applied to Marcus. So he'd been keen to explain what he'd learned to his friend, in the hope that it would help him too. As he had warned, it wouldn't happen overnight, but if they were smart and persistent, it would happen. Tiberius hoped that it would be worth it, that there would be some kind of income for Marcus at the other end. "It's something I can do." He said mildly. "And I'm sure there must be something for you." Surely there had to be, his father had not been a nobody. "We'll work through it together." Marcus was as his brother, Tiberius wasn't not going to help him if there was a chance that he could. He would see a proud family back on it's feet again. "Let me know when you want to go and see the Vestals about the will." He said, meaning that he'd come with Marcus to support him, assuming that Marcus wanted him to. He could understand if that last message from his father was a more private thing. Tiberius was only interested in the technicalities, and whether there was anything there that they could work on legally. "Now, why don't we go and enjoy the sunshine in the courtyard." He suggested, since Marcus had apparently been enjoying it earlier. @Atrice @Sharpie

Really? Not that I wouldn't care for my husband or that I don't care for my father, but... it doesn't sound too bad. Don't tell I said that. "I won't." He assured her quietly, noting her smile and thoughtful tone. Perhaps it gave her a little hope, something to think about. He liked to see her smile. "Your words are always safe with me." He promised. No one needed to know what was said between them, and he felt oddly protective of Sosia. He wondered then, what she would do if she were free to do as she would. I... don't know. I think, that I would do what I do now. Spend time with you. The way she looked at him, her dark eyes and the trust he saw in them, made him want to weep with frustration at society's expectations. What had he done to deserve the admiration of someone like her? Tiberius never took his station for granted, any more than someone born to privilege did automatically, and didn't think that look was purely because he was an Imperial. But it made him smile. "Why me? Surely you've met other young men in Rome by now?" Surely there had been potential suitors? How could anyone not want someone as sweet as Sosia? But did it matter? Fate would pull them apart, he knew, unless he did something radical to stop it, even as he knew he shouldn't. But couldn't they enjoy their time together now? "We have today together. Let me show you the view from the upper floor." He squeezed her fingers where they nestled so comfortably in his, and drew her gently onwards through the building. @Atrice

Perhaps it was hard for Teutus to be himself in front of his father because he was still trying to please Tertius, and didn't know how. She wished she had an answer for him, but she suspected that Tertius felt just as lost with Teutus. Two men who didn't know how to relate to each other. She was the link between them, the mother of one and erstwhile lover of the other; could she find some way to bring them together? She knew she would try, she couldn't not, but they had to want it. Only the Gods knew and time would tell. He's still the paterfamilias, what he thinks does matter. If he wanted to stop me from running a business, he could. "But he hasn't, has he?" She asked rhetorically. "And you said he gave you the money to set it up?" Which surely indicated some intent on Tertius's part. "I doubt he would. I think he might be more proud of you than he knows how to say." So he said it in ways like giving Teutus his freedom to leave the house and even money to set up his own life. After all; hadn't Tertius done the same, rather than staying in the family domus with his brother? A Senator's daughter? Really? Well, that sounded exactly like something a proud but awkward Tertius would do. Seeking out what he thought was the best for his son, even though from a practical point of view it wasn't a good match. "I promise." She assured him. As a Freedman he should probably be looking for a Freedwoman or Plebian girl. At least he had a lot to offer compared to many men of the same class. "I'll keep an eye out for a suitable girl." She promised him. There was no need to rush him into an unsuitable match, and she would have to be a special girl to be worthy of Varinia's son. His next question threw her a little off guard, even though Tertius had asked her the same thing when she'd visited him. She supposed that it was expected of women. "You might not want me ruling your roost forever." She teased back with a smile, before becoming more serious. "I wouldn't mind marrying, but having just got my freedom," a pat of his arm, "I'm not eager to come under another man's dominion for the sake of it." She said, putting her hesitancy into words. "He would have to be a good man." Someone she could trust, someone she could share a life with. She'd like that, but she didn't know how many men might want her. She was over forty, and whilst she still had her courses and might yet have children, she knew that the chances were much lower than if a man wed a young woman. She would love more children, but was also practical. Perhaps a widower... "I'm happy to hear suggestions if you have them, but will you let me make the decision?" After all, as her son and the one who'd freed her Teutus had as much authority over her as Tertius had over him. @Sharpie