Atrice

Early September, 75 AD Alexius had been talking to people. Well, he always talked to people and met people and had good times with people, but he was on a mission now. A certain and very important job, because a friend of his had been attacked and he had to do something about it. Didia must have been so afraid, he thought, when that sick fucker cut her and she had to go to Theo for help and then asked Alexius to help her look for the guy. And of course he'd help her! She was his neighbor and friend and he hated to see anyone he liked, harmed. It actually felt good, for once, to know you did something that really mattered to someone. And now, that’s exactly what he did. Galla, one of his lovers, suggested he went to the lower classes and the alleys and brothels to look for the attacker. And so he went to the first on his mind, the lovely Lucilla, who lived up on the top floor of the insula, because she knew people like that. But she said she doubted any guys like that went to the Venus. She had not heard about any men with knives cutting up anyone for fun there. But maybe at Elysium? People with sick tendencies tended to go there, she said. That brothel-owner felt no remorse and all he thought about was earning coin. The whores there got beaten up and worse and nobody cared. He'd gone out, asked around and some days later, he knew that Elysium had to be the place to go to. So that’s where he went. If Didia’s attacker ever went to a brothel, that would be the place! He felt weird though, approaching the place. Alexius had never once paid for sex, not directly anyway. Paying to meet a gladiatrix because she fought well, and said gladiatrix then deciding she liked him enough to have him, that was different in his eyes. And now he stood in front of the Elysium, a poorly kept building, matching its inhabitants, he guessed. Poor girls and guys. But he wasn’t here for sex, at least. He was here for information. Alexius entered the house, coming into the bar-like room on the ground level, where men (and some women) met whores who’d let them do just about anything. He felt… almost dirty, walking in here. He didn't like the idea of owning other people and then selling them to the highest bidder for one night or one release only. Some of them could be used many times in the same night. It was disgusting. As a gladiator, he'd been prostituted too. He knew what it was like. It was not always a fun business and especially not in a place like this. He inhaled a breath and ran a hand through his hair while his eyes adjusted to the light. @Echo

Wulfric had not yet guessed that Aglaea was pregnant, but he thought she was not well and hoped she would be better soon. Why should he not hope for that? Why should he hope for anyone who weren’t feeling good, that it should stay that way? She let out a little laugh at his words and thanked him, said she was sure she would. And then they went on to talk about her master. She confirmed the name Varus and said Wulfric had looked like her master’s brother. Well Secundus was not the name he was looking for… but maybe the brother he looked like, was his father? Had he suddenly come so close to his real father just by being in the right spot at the right time? It felt almost like a dream. But he waited with asking more, because he’d already wondered if this Secundus was a kind master and to his surprise, Aglaea said he wasn’t. That he might be the worst in Rome. His eyes widened at this bold statement, but she went on, saying he was odd and mentioned again he’d been captured in Germania and said that might be the reason. Wulfric nodded thoughtfully, “Sorry to hear for him he was captured.” Wulfric replied, “Why you think he is the worst master in Rome?” He asked then, “Please… tell me.” If this Secundus was his father’s brother, that meant it was his uncle and he thought he had the right to know what his family members were like. Then he’d also be better prepared when he met them. He already felt sorry for her though, if her master was odd and one of the worst in Rome. It seemed unfair to him. Maybe he could help her somehow? @Echo

When Teutus said he’d be honored to become guardian for his younger half-siblings, he said he would be honored. And he would do his best for them, if anything should happen to tertius. Those were well chosen words, Tertius thought. It made him a little proud of his son and happy too, that Tertius had finally found a way to please Teutus and make him feel honored in the house. He was no longer a slave, after all, even if it seemed like he had trouble adjusting. But he’d just have to. And this new rank would hopefully help. Teutus even took the wine offered and drank, but then he set the cup down. He still wasn’t smiling. Did Teutus ever smile? He said he understood but then went on about how he didn’t have to live in the house and his presence would be unwanted here. He suggested finding his own place to live and Tertius put down his cup too. He’d been so pleased, he’d felt happy, when Teutus uttered those words just before. But now they seemed empty. As if Teutus hadn’t understood anything at all. “Why would your presence here be unwanted, Teutus? You are my son. I freed you. And I will make you guardian of this house and family, because anything else seems impossible and I want you to be part of this family.” Tertius said, “Why would I want you to leave? You think I’d do all this and that my only desire now is to see you go?” @Sharpie

How could he not smile when he saw Charis approaching with the bundle in her arms – and dressed in that very pretty, light blue chiton that he had given her. She wanted to give him a good impression, he understood that. And it worked. She was very beautiful and she’d even done her hair up in a Roman manner rather than her Briton style. Not that he didn’t like it when her hair wasn’t done up at all, but just hung down over her back and shoulders, long and thick and beautiful, like the rest of her. And it suited her, becoming a mother. It was as if there was a softness to her that he had not noticed before, when she looked up at him with a nervous smile. Of course, she knew nothing about what was going to happen. Tertius knew though, and Teutus. And Tertius especially was very anxious to lay his eyes on the little boy in the bundle in her arms. She was waiting for instructions and Tertius stood, looking at her. She didn’t do anything though. Had no one told her what was usually done in this ceremony? That the slave was to place her child on the ground in front of her master and then see if he’d pick up the child or not. Although she should almost be able to guess he’d do it. Else he would not have done it like this, with the whole household present. He even saw Teutus, who seemed to prefer to blend in with the rest today. After their conversation the day after the child was born, things had been a little strange between them. Again. Why would Teutus not just... act like a proper son? He looked at Charis now though and she didn't seem to know the next step, what to do, so Tertius would have to instruct her. He inhaled a breath, “Place the child here, in front of me.” He gestured to the floor in front of him and waited. @Sara @Sharpie

He hadn’t been sure of what Teutus would say to his plan and idea. His son was hard to read and he didn’t really know anything about Teutus’ plans or hopes for the future. It was more than half a year since he was freed now and he knew Tertius had struggled with searching the law for a loophole, but he also knew Tertius had not succeeded. And that’s how and why he came up with this new plan, because he wanted to do something for his son. He would not lose him. Teutus more than deserved that Tertius paid him attention, especially now. Teutus seemed surprised, stumbling over his words and Tertius watched him closely, still unsure about what that reaction meant. Was it good or bad? Would Teutus accept Tertius’ idea… or not? Would he rather make his own name and find his own trade? Tertius knew nothing. Teutus never told him about these things. For some reason, both his son and the mother of his newborn child found it hard to be honest with him. At least he hoped he could trust Teutus with this. Well, he would just have to, because he was not taking it back. It had been decided. He had spoken. At last, Teutus took a breath and said he’d be honored. And he would do his best for Antonia and his new brother, should anything happen to Tertius. Tertius stood with an appreciative smile on his face, “Good… I’m glad to hear that.” He said and then he did pour a cup of wine for Teutus, despite that his son had not wanted it, “This calls for celebration! I know you’re the only right person for this task and I hope you understand how important it is for both me and for your siblings. And for our name.” @Sharpie

This would be interesting. Because to be honet, Teutus did not seem very thrilled about the idea of a new baby brother in the house. Despite everything that Tertius had done for him lately, everything he tried to do, Teutus just didn’t seem very excited at all. Wasn’t he happy to be free? Wasn’t it what he always wanted? Tertius couldn’t help it that there were certain traditions and habits that were so ancient in Rome that everyone would glare at him if he dared to try and change something. The only loophole was to either ignore tradition and become an outsider by society or talk to Caesar. Both seemed… almost impossible and definitely very difficult. Teutus said he expected the new son to become Tertius’ freeborn heir and that meant he’d completely replace Teutus. He seemed bitter. Tertius understood why. “You’re right, I am going to free him. And changing things for you… is not as easy as I had hoped.” He said with a small sigh, “But, despite that, or maybe because of that... I have a favor to ask you. Because you are my son, Teutus. And I want you to always be a part of my family, because, well… you are.” Tertius said and put down the wine for a moment, watching the younger version of himself closely. “If anything should to happen to me… if I were gravely injured or worse, if I died, before Antonia and before Charis’ son reach adulthood. I want you to be their guardian. I want you to take care of them and the property until they come of age.” And as a praetor, he could do this - appoint a guardian for his children and his household. It was the least he could do for Teutus. Give him a job and a way to always be a part of the family. @Sharpie

Alexius walked into his flat first, setting the bowl of food down onto the table and Artemon followed behind him. The younger man seemed to take some time looking around, it was no doubt a larger room than what Artemon shared with his brother. Which just meant there was plenty of space for friendly guests like this one. Alexius explained that Lexus worked too, so he wouldn’t have to take too much extra work for now and Artemon seemed to think it made sense and wondered where Lexus was now. He also wondered what Lexus did for a living and Alexius smiled – maybe a tad bit resentfully – at his question. “No… he’s not. He’s for some reason not so fond of violence. He works as a gardener.” He said, honestly finding it a bit of a strange job and especially for his own son. His son, the son of a former gladiator and now bodyguard and mercenary at times… worked as a gardener! Artemon stood a bit awkwardly by the table and Alexius wondered why, but then remembered his manners, “Oh… please take a seat. Any seat you’d like. I’ll find us some plates.” He said and went to some shelves to pick a few flat and wooden plates. They’d break off pieces of the bread to dip in and scoop up the delicious sauce, but it was nice to have a plate to put the bread down upon. Then Alexius also found a pair of cups and a jar of wine. He always had at least one jar of wine somewhere in the flat, usually more. His guest then continued on the conversation concerning pleasure and said it was hard to tell if someone were pleased and said women could fake it… and he could only be sure about himself. Alexius sat down, pouring some wine for them and broke off a piece of bread for himself while thinking, “Oh I know women can fake it. But you need to kind of… really study them? Pay attention to them. It’s about the whole experience, for them. It is for men too, of course, but with women, they seem to kind of need more than men? More care. If they moan so loud you can hear it down the street, but their bodies don’t react or if they avoid your eyes when you ask if it was good…” He said, it was kind of hard to explain, but he just felt he knew these things. He’d tried so many things, slept with so many people… it was not easy to explain though and honestly, some women were hard to figure out, “Not that I’ll brag about really understanding them. I don’t think any man ever can. Besides, it’s always fun to have a mystery to solve, right? What does she want? What does she like? What makes her special…” He said in an almost dreamy manner and dipped a piece of bread into the sauce. He just really liked women, didn't he? And what they did to him and what he did to them. @Liv

Tertius offered his son wine, but Teutus shook his head and then said no one had slept well last night. And he’d slept badly too. Why had he done that though? He must be worried, Tertius thought. If only Teutus could understand his thoughts and why things were the way they were, but at this point, it seemed as if it might never happen. Teutus congratulated Tertius with the birth of his new son though, but he did not seem very cheerful. “Thank you.” Tertius said and sipped the wine, “My second son, that is.” He added then, wanting Teutus to understand that so far, this did not change what Tertius hoped he could do for Teutus. “Now… I want you to be honest with me. You are my son too, after all. My first-born, although I know I was not much of a father when you were a child. But times change… and it changes people. Tell me your thoughts on gaining a brother?” He wondered if Teutus actually would be honest with him, for a change. His oldest son still seemed a bit uncertain with his new freedman life and also uncertain about what he could say to his father and how to treat him. Tertius hoped it would be better with time, but it was hard to tell with Teutus. He was difficult to read. Perhaps the apple did not fall so far from the tree after all. @Sharpie

September, 75AD So much had happened since the spring, when Clio for the first time told her sister about the boy she met in the gardens. With whom she swapped clothes and wore boy’s clothes for a little while. And he wore hers! It was scandalous, really, but she had kept her promise and not told a single soul about it. They were twins, they’d always been together and Septima believed she would always love her sister and be loyal to her. They were very different apart from the fact that they looked almost exactly alike. But they were still sisters. Clio could trust her. They’d talked about Clio going to see the boy again and Septima would come along, so it at least wouldn’t be the two of them meeting alone. And maybe she was also a little bit curious about this boy, Lexus. But time moved on and they had not gotten a chance during the first month after and then it was suddenly May and their birthday. And then summer came and parties and events and then an earthquake shattered Rome! While the damages in their home had been repaired, the twins had been sent to spend time with relatives outside of Rome. And now it was suddenly fall and thoughts of the boy gardener Lexus were far away. The twins had other things to think about. After the earthquake, some people became homeless and some of them had settled in small camps the gardens in Rome - and it was decided in the family that the twins should go and hand out a little bit of food and clothes they had outgrown, to the homeless. Septima held a large sack with bread and fruit and her sister had the other sack with the clothes. Together they ventured to the Gardens of Sullust to hand out their items. As they came nearer the gardens, she looked at Clio. They spent much time together, but not all time, of course, so she was curious about how it looked like behind the walls to the gardens. She wasn't even sure she'd ever been here at all, “Have you been here since the earthquake?” @Chevi

Wulfric thought he was fairly good at Latin, since he already knew some when he left Germania. But he did not yet speak it fluently and certain phrases were still entirely new to him. He could kind of guess that being 'out of sorts' was not something good or nice, but what exactly it meant, he wasn't sure. So he asked, because honestly, that was the best way to gain information and answers. Aglaea said it was an expression and it meant she did not feel like herself. He watched how she looked at her hands and down herself. Was she sick? Something was definitely not right with her, but he was not yet sure what. She then explained she'd gone through a hard time and that it just happened sometimes. Wulfric nodded, "Alright... I am sorry you feel like that. Better you will feel soon, I hope." Wulfric said to her, wondering if he could help her in any way, but she did not seem to want to talk about it and moved on, wondering what he would know of her master. She said his name and Wulfric lit up upon hearing it. "His name is Varus?" Wulfric asked, surprised and curious and feeling a bit odd too, hearing that name said out loud by someone else here. That was the name he was looking for! Not Secundus though, but his father had a brother. So if Secundus had a brother, maybe... it was his father. He knew nothing about the family though and here, Aglaea could help him. He needed to know as much as possible before meeting his Roman family, so he would not make any mistakes. His mother hoped he'd return to Germania with wisdom and glory gained in Rome and he did not like the idea of failing his mother. So he would know anything Aglaea would tell him, "Tell me what is he like? Is he kind master?" @Echo

31st of August, 75AD It had been 9 days since Charis gave birth to his son. Of course he knew it was a son. Tertius was quite anxious to see the boy, but in this household he was the Pater Familias and he was the one who would decide anything that would happen to the child. So he would do things properly, as you did, as tradition ordered. Which meant he would not see his slave-born son until 9 days after the birth. If the child still lived and appeared healthy, the slave would present the child to the head of the household and Tertius would either pick up the child – setting it free – or not, leaving it to be brought up as a slave. And he would name the child. Now it was the 9th morning after the birth and today he would finally see his son. Hector had done everything in his power to distract Tertius the night before and he had done everything to attempt to make his master relax, but Tertius had still turned in the bed at night and he’d woken when he ought to sleep. Charis knew nothing of his plans. He had only told Teutus and he trusted that Teutus would not tell anyone. He nudged Hector when he’d been awake long enough and the slave got up and fetched a basin of fresh water for Tertius. He also fetched a fresh tunica and anything else he knew Tertius would want and Hector did not utter a word. His body slave was probably displeased with the whole situation. He knew that Charis was on Tertius’ mind a lot. He’d been worried since she went into labor and had been happy to hear that both mother and son were alive and well after. The way he lost his wife after Antonia was born… he didn’t want to lose Charis the same way. And she wasn’t even his wife, but… he couldn’t help but wishing he would not lose her. Despite everything, she had to live and be here. After he got dressed, he sent Hector out to set up a nice breakfast in the triclinium, for himself and for Charis – and then he found a seat in the atrium of the house, because that’s where he had imagined this ceremony would take place. In his hand he held a special amulet for the child. Honestly it didn’t have to be a big deal, when the child was born by a slave and not a wife, and he had not planned it to be. He had sent word to Livia Justinia, Secundus' wife, that a child had been born, but he had not formally invited them. He doubted they would come anyway. It could be a big ceremony, with guests and many family members present, but in this case, with a slave-born child, it would just be the whole household present and Charis presenting the child and Tertius doing what he planned to do. And then it was done. After he’d been sitting there a little while, watching the slaves just do their jobs, he decided it was time and waved the nearest slave over… “Announce that Charis’ child can be presented to me now.” He told the slave, who hurried on to tell Charis and then anyone else at home at the moment, who would witness the ceremony of the newborn child. It didn’t take long for Antonia to appear by his side, as the first and he gave her a smile and a hug, as she seemed very excited. He had of course informed her that Charis’ child was his, despite Charis not being his wife. He had explained to Antonia that he had been very fond of Charis, so fond of her that at least for a time, he had treated her almost like a wife (but not quite, of course). He didn’t know if Antonia had met her new brother. But he knew he looked forwards to it, no matter what. Slowly many of the house slaves appeared in or near the atrium. Would Teutus show up? He didn't know. All he could do now was wait for Charis and his newest son to appear. @Sara

August, 75 AD - the evening of Tricky Timing Alexius was ready. He’d not been working much today… well not officially anyway. He did not bring home any extra coin for him and Lexus. Instead he’d lurked around the marketplace to keep an eye out for Didia, as well as having asked people about barbers and other people who’d carry around knives and flasks with scented oils. A slave from one of the brothels said there were girls at their brothel who were scared of this one patron, who always wanted to see blood before he took in their bodies to get release. But when Alexius asked the name of the brothel, they didn’t want to talk. As if they were scared. It wasn’t at all easy, this mystery! In the evening he had a simple meal he brought back home to the insula and he told Lexus this morning he might not be home until it was dark out. Lexus wasn’t home yet while Alexius sat at his table, downing a bit of wine – a quite common thing for him to do – while he waited for Didia to show up. He was already dressed for the occasion, because when was he not? Short breeches and a thigh-long tunica and a belt that could easily be removed, so you could move easier. He wore his good boot-like sandals and had, just in case, also hidden a blade down a special sheath in said boot. Just in case. At last there was a knock on the door in the otherwise silent flat and Alexius jumped up to answer it, expecting to find Didia outside, also ready to learn a bit about self-defense in Rome. @Sara

Didia nodded, when he told her what to wear and so on - and then he lowered his voice, telling her to bring the knife she had too, just so he knew what she had to use for a fight. She said she would bring it, but he should not laugh at it. Alexius arched a brow at her little smile, "Why would I? If it's all you got..." He replied in a friendly tone and then she sighed and said she ought to leave. She then told him to clean up before Lexus woke and mentioned Alexius' night with Galla, while she chuckled. "I doubt it. I don't think we were that loud anyway?" Honestly though, he wasn't sure. Maybe Galla was a little bit loud, but it was pleasure, so what could he do? If moaning was part of how you enjoyed it, why shouldn't you moan? Alexius definitely wouldn't stop anyone. "But I guess getting clean would be a good idea. I hope you'll be alright until tonight? Else you know where to find me. You're always welcome." Alexius promised Didia, before she took her leave with a promise for returning after Cena in the evening. Once she was gone, Alexius went to lie down for a few moments, maybe a ilttle longer, before he got up to get himself ready for the day and also wake up Lexus, so the youth could get to work. He decided it was best to just not mention Didia and the attack on her, Lexus seemed fond of their neighbor and he didn't want his son to worry too much. Eventually they'd both get on the day, but Alexius would of course be ready for Didia later. @Sara FINISHED

He did want to ask her questions about her master, but he didn’t know her so well yet or how much she would tell him. The Romans were hard to figure out, so he decided to not ask about her master first, but instead return to his first question about her. Because there was something about her, something he sensed was not right so he’d ask how she was doing. And now he asked again – if she was alright. Meanwhile Aglaea had seemed to look him over strangely, and he wondered if he really did seem that familiar to her. So familiar she thought to begin with, that he was someone else. Aglaea thought his question over and blushed at it. Blushed? Why would anyone blush at such a question? Nobody asked her before? That was kind of sad, if that was the case. Then she said he was kind to ask, smiling, and said she was alright and knew he’d not hurt her. And that she was a little out of sorts? “A little… out of… sorts?” He tried to repeat her question, tilting his head while watching her, because he honestly was not sure what she meant by that, “What does it mean?” @Echo

It would seem he had not had enough to drink to do stupid things. He had had so little to drink that he was instead preventing stupid things, like beating up strangers in the street and risking getting caught by the cohorts. He dragged his companion away from the beaten man, despite her not really wanting to go. He held her by the arm to pull her with him, while she cursed the cohorts and Manius chose to not reply to that. She was angry, someone she cared for had died, he understood. But he didn't want her to get into trouble because of that. After a little while, he changed the subject and asked if she felt better now. She both did and did not. She wanted to beat more people up and wondered why Manius didn't even hit the man. She wondered if they should find another and then suddenly asked for his name. "I'm Manius. You?" He asked, "And I... don't know why I didn't. It just wasn't right." Manius replied while considering if he should just straight out ask her to knock him out... but that also didn't seem like something you just asked people, and for some reason, she was friendly towards him. So he just sighed... "I just want it all to stop." @Chevi

Galla was soon gone, which made the situation a tiny bit less weird with Didia. At least they were alone, or well, almost, because Lexus was still breathing loudly in his own sleep and dreams. Alexius awkwardly moved on with the conversation, turning back to their idea of him training Didia a bit in self-defense and how to use a knife properly. Didia looked after Galla for a few moments, but then suggested they would do it tonight after the late meal in the day. Alexius nodded, “That sounds good to me.” He replied with a smile and Didia went on how she could come here and they’d go somewhere more private. Of course. Alexius could easily find a more private spot… Didia had gestured towards Lexus’ bed though and Alexius nodded and smiled slightly, so she didn’t want to disturb his son despite this just being training and nothing more. Or what? If she needed comfort and to think about something else for a little while, he would happily offer it. Did she need to bring anything? “Just your lovely self, perhaps wear something easy to move in, if you can? And the… knife.” He said in a lower voice, “Just so I know what you’re using to defend yourself with…” @Sara

Alexius mostly meant the whole revelation about never having sailed as a joke, although it was true, but Artemon seemed genuinely surprised by it. The face he made was amusing and then after a few moments, he said he could take Alexius on a short trip and he had contacts at the harbor. Alexius nodded, “Sure, if you think that would work out. It would be something I’ve never tried… but I’m open to it.” He was open to most things to be honest. And he was even open enough when Artemon suggested what he did for a living. He’d heard the gossip about himself too, his lovers were often happy to tell him and he could only be entertained by it. And kind of proud too. Of course he heard bad things sometimes, but mostly he could just laugh at it. Artemon laughed with him and then said he’d heard some of the neighbors gossip about him. Alexius nodded with a grin, wondering if he should ask whom, but maybe another time. Alexius kept on talking though, explaining what he did and how much he liked sex and wouldn’t say no to something that would satisfy all involved. Artemon seemed surprised, so surprised it took him a few moments to respond, then he said it was bold and wondered how he was sure everyone were satisfied. Was it bold though? The way people responded to what Alexius did to them… the way their bodies would react, the way they’d whimper and moan and that satisfied and calm looks on their faces afterwards… that told him they were satisfied… “It would depend if she wanted me. And if we got along.” Alexius said, not that he’d ever slept with someone really old, but if they got along and it felt right, why not? “And is it bold though? Maybe…” He grinned, as he had a thought, “Are you not sure your partners are satisfied? I’m quite sure mine are, most of the time. I could teach you a thing or two… if you’d like…” He asked with a wink, because again… why not? They arrived at their building and reached Alexius’ floor and then Artemon began talking about work if Alexius needed money too, because he could get a job since he was big and strong, “Thanks for suggesting it but… I think I’m good, for now. Taking small jobs until something bigger comes along. Plus, my son works too. So it’s alright.” He said while he placed the food bowl on the floor for a moment to find his key and unlock the door to the flat. Picking up the food again he opened the door with his arm and entered. Lexus didn’t appear to be at home yet. @Liv

It could have been bolder than the kiss before, his challenge and dare for Felix after Alexius won the coin-game again... but instead he chose to try and get Felix a little more drunk, so that his companion might relax some more. Felix was obviously not used to relaxing as much as Alexius, but wine often did the trick! Not that he meant for Felix to get so drunk he'd pass out and not remember a thing, he just wanted to make it all a bit more fun. And Felix did as told, again... he filled his cup, emptied it and filled it again. Alexius smiled and drank a bit of his own, while Felix took the coin and the bet. And Felix won this round! Alexius waited curiously to see what Felix would come up with and his friend decided on a strange idea. Maybe not so bad though? Show Felix a place he'd not shown to anyone before... "Interesting." Alexius said, "And tough too! I've been around here for a long time and know my way around... but a place I've not shown to anyone else..." He scratched his chin while trying to think about it. Felix didn't say it had to be a secret place or anything, just something he'd never shown to anyone on his own. Alexius then stood and reached his hand for Felix, "There's a place I have in mind but it's a very long walk... actually to the other side of Rome, basically. I can show you, but... I can also just show you one of my favorite places in Rome? It's still not a place I really show people, although I often meet someone there. Or what do you say?" @Chevi

Updated this wanted ad with a partner in crime for Marcus and a potential new slave ;)

Wulfric could already barely remember half the names of the Roman gods that Iophon mentioned to him. He tried to learn about and remember the most important, but the rest were harder. And less important, or so he hoped. But at least he knew Julius Caesar, even if they said he never reached the Rhine or Germania... everyone knew the stories, of course they did. The man led an interesting life, according to the storytellers. But Wulfric did not know that the infamous Roman claimed to be related to the gods. Iophon explained that Caesar claimed that Venus, the goddess of love, was his ancestor. Wulfric arched a brow at the way Iophon winked at him, but then looked up at the temple they were walking by. And then Iophon said Caesar was a god now too and pointed at his temple! Then his new friend wondered if his people never claimed divine ancestry... "Some say we all have such ancestry. That the gods walk among us long time ago, were like us. But they do that even now, too." Wulfric explained, "But they hide, look like us. So no one guess who they are. To keep eye on our behavior." He said. There were many tales of odd strangers visiting towns and villages and strange things happened while they were there. And one day then, they would simply disappear and no one could explain it. Had to do be the divine, right? "You said you are Greek, from Egypt." Which was already confusing... and then he was here in Rome... "Are your gods like Roman gods?" It was interesting to talk to Iophon and try to understand all these things. @Chevi

Was he ever this annoying when he was young? Manius didn't think so. He married his wife when he was around Caecina's age and already before that, he was working at the slave market alongside his father. He never complained, but accepted his lot in life back then. Caecina did not seem willing to accept hers. Could she not see that he was trying to help her - he was trying to do what no other adults in her life seemed willing to do for her at the moment? He might be lower in the social classes than his employer here, but that didn't mean he wasn't going to carry out his job. When she claimed Marcus understood her and he didn't know anything, he called Marcus a brat, because that's what he was. He had not said it about Caecina, but he saw how she glared at him. Then she went over to sit down on the bed with a huff. Manius thought he hit something in her, he said something true and she was unwilling to admit it. Because she too, was a brat. He tried to reach out though, offered that he would listen to her and keep her secrets instead, but after some consideration, she said she didn't want to talk to him. She spoke coldly, but Manius heard how her voice broke. Enough was enough, it seemed. At least today he'd prevented her from a fall from grace. "Well... the offer still stands." Manius said, "Please just promise me to be... more careful, when it comes to Marcus. Think twice." He said and then moved towards the door, "You know where to find me, if you change your mind - or need me for anything else." He turned in the doorway to wait and see if she had more to say. If not, he'd leave her alone for now. @Echo

She seemed oddly relieved when he, after she told her secret, just stayed there and continued talking. Well, it was nice to talk to someone different for once and someone who demanded nothing from him. Not that he didn't like people demanding things - he did, to be honest, because that meant he had something to do. It was honestly rare that he just sat down with someone, like now. Listening to her talk about her strange faith. She said their sect had to remain secret for their own protection and Manius nodded, "Keeping your secret is the least I can do." He replied to her, she had wanted nothing from him after helping him with the purse and maybe this would be his payment to her. She would be able to trust him and he would keep her secrets. He said her faith almost sounded easy and she said that everyone struggled with having faith, but they were still forgiven. It was really remarkable, he thought to himself. If any of it was true. With gods, that was a difficult thing. If there were so many different gods to believe in... were some of them wrong then? They couldn't all exist, could they? But that was too deep for this afternoon and he finished eating the cake he ate, after he asked what happened to those who had no faith, didn't believe and didn't try to not commit sins. Aglaea seemed hesitant, but then said sinners - which he thought must be a word for people who committed sins - they went to Hell, which was a bit like Hades. "There's always something, isn't there? Hades or Hell..." He said with a little sigh, casting his eyes up towards the sky for a moment, thinking that's where he would never go... to join the gods in the Elysian fields, "I wonder what the gods want me to do, sometimes. Sometimes... often... I fear I am nothing but a failure to them. Do you know that feeling?" @Echo

Aglaea said it was nice to meet him and he supposed it was nice to meet her too. She seemed very friendly. Not all Romans were friendly, especially when he shared he was from Germania - a part of the world not yet conquered by Rome and if the gods were on his side, they never would conquer the large part of the continent that the Romans named Germania. They had tried before and they had failed. Now minor settlements were shooting up across the Rhine and they were being watched closely, but so far they did not appear threatening. He hoped they'd not suddenly turn their coats and their weapons on his people. Well this lady here certainly would not and she knew of his family... or maybe she did. He bet many Romans had been up there over twenty years ago and others may have fathered children too, but still. Even if her master was not his father's brother, and he hadn't even said the last name yet, he might know Tertius. It was all useful, no matter what. She seemed a bit surprised when he stopped her from leaving, but then she smiled and stopped and said she'd tell him about Secundus, her master. She didn't seem happy though, even though she laughed. But he wouldn't have to pay her, she said. He might just anyway, but decided to let it go for now. She looked around and found a seat for them. Wulfric followed her there but didn't sit until she did. "I want to know many thing." Wulfric first began with a little smile, "Where to begin..." He then mused, he had so many questions and he didn't want to say too much, in case this wasn't the right man and family or in case she wasn't as friendly as she led him to believe so far... but she might just be. Romans were difficult to figure out. "Oh... before I ask about your master." Wulfric said, as he recalled something and it might tell more about her character and how much he could trust her, "I ask you question, before I know your name." What he referred to was of course the first question he asked her, before they were introduced, but he didn't know if she would catch the meaning... the language was hard too, so he quickly added; "I ask if are you alright? You seem... nervous? I will not harm you." @Echo

Alexius noted how Didia yawned and felt bad for her again. She’d had a rough night and now she was so afraid and worried, that she came knocking on his door early in the morning. She thanked them though, for their thoughts and said she’d be grateful if Alexius would speak to the ladies of the night and said he could charm them, “I’m sure I can. I’ll get to it tonight.” Although maybe he should start by talking to Lucilla, because she might have some good contacts to get in touch with. Yes, he’d do that. He told Didia to make sure to tell him when she had time for self-defense and she thanked him and said she could be free for training in the evenings. Galla gave them some looks but Didia ignored her and his lovely bedmate glanced thoughtfully out the window and stood again, slipping back into Alexius’ bedroom behind the curtain once more, where she rummaged around. Alexius focused on Didia though, because she needed attention. “Evenings sounds good with training. I can find a location, no problem. Not that I’d mind Lexus watching, he could honestly use some training too. He just doesn’t seem so interested…” Alexius added lower voice and a small sigh, glancing towards the curtains surrounding his son’s bed. Sometimes it was a bit hard to have become father to a teenage son just like that, and a son who appeared quite different from himself too, “Anyway… that just makes more time for you…” He began and then Galla appeared again, now fully dressed and with her palla over her head to hide that her hair probably hadn’t been done good. “I think I better leave you two to it…” She said and walked over to Alexius, running her fingers through his hair before she leaned down and gave him a lingering kiss on his cheek just next to his lips. Then she stood with a little satisfied smile, “Maybe we’ll see each other again sometime?” She looked at Didia, “Good luck finding that attacker… I sure won’t forget the story either! If I hear anything… I’ll let Alexius know.” She promised and then she strolled towards the door, “Maybe another time… stay safe, Galla.” Alexius replied to her with a smile and then she was out the door and he could focus on Didia again, with a slightly awkward smile, but it soon faded, "So... training tonight then?" @Sara

Artemon didn’t think it sounded too bad with two months of travelling by food and carriage each way to Germania… but that meant almost half a year of travelling, since they also stayed up there for a bit and there was travelling around across the Rhine too. Which wasn’t as easy as on this side of the Rhine, because one thing he’d learned was that the Romans were good at making roads. In Germania, they were rarely as good. And while it had been summer, it was still a bit wet and windy at times. Not like Rome. Alexius had been born in Germania, but lived most of his life in Rome. That’s what he was used to. Coming back to his birthplace held many surprises and few of them were good. But he tried to not dwell on it, since that’s not what Artemon asked. Artemon went on about how long it took to travel when you were sailing and Alexius looked a bit surprised, “Oh? I can’t imagine… shall I tell you a secret?” Alexius asked with a small smile, it wasn’t like it was really a huge secret or a secret at all in fact, it was just never something that came up before… he leaned a bit closer, “I’ve never sailed before.” He said then, that was the big reveal. Artemon had sailed but Alexius… never. He’d done so many other things though, there were few regrets. He asked into what Artemon did for a living and he explained that he moved stuff between warehouses and had also worked at a harbor and been a sailor of course. He didn’t look like someone you’d mistake for a sailor, at all, but people often held surprises when you began talking with them. He smiled when Artemon said he was always looking for new opportunities to make more money, “Aren’t we all?” He said and then of course Artemon wondered what Alexius did and it would seem the young man had listened to gossip. Alexius just let out an amused laugh though, “Is that what they say now?” He’d heard a lot already and this entertained him, “But… no. I suppose…” That had been kind of what he did with Oriana. Not that he was paid to sleep with her, but it was a nice benefit that she wanted him in her bed… “I work as a bodyguard, mostly. Looking for a more steady job at the moment. Of course I don’t say no if my employers want me, I like sex, so that would be stupid to say no to, right?” At least Alexius thought so, “But that’s not what I’m paid to do. I’m just… openminded and ready.” He added with a smile and leaned closer to the youth again, unashamed, “Besides, who would I be to require payment for something that benefits and satisfies everyone involved?” He winked to Artemon and looked up at their building as they approached it. @Liv