Jenn

Tacita stood off to the side while everyone was gathered in the main part of the warehouse. She kept out of the way as she wasn’t for sale. It felt weird simply standing off to the side, but there wasn’t anything she had been told to do, and there wasn’t anything she could see to do. The Consul took his time looking at what was available. At one point the Consul turned in her direction and Tacita momentarily caught his eye, she suddenly dropped her gaze to the floor. She waited a moment and then lifted her head, but only slightly. She noticed that the Consul and Claudus were talking but she wasn’t able to hear what was being said. “Tacita” Suddenly she heard her name being called by Claudus and saw a flick of his hand for her to approach. What was happening? Tacita approached the pair, gave a quick little curtsy and waited for more instructions or questions. “Consul, should you wish to ask her anything it needs to be in a yes/no format as she does not speak.” @Sharpie

After handing the Consul his cup of wine Tacita stepped back quietly out of the way- they would have left but Claudus hadn’t dismissed them yet. While she wasn’t listening intently to the conversation she did keep an ear open for any commands that came their way. He went on to say that his wife was looking for a project- she wasn’t exactly sure what that meant but as he was in a slave market as opposed to the main market she suspected he was looking for a slave that his wife could train up. Before Claudus could reply there was a knock. “Come in” A moment later the Claudus’ foreman entered the room. “Is everyone gathered for the Consul’s viewing” His foreman nodded his head and gestured back out to the main room. “Good” When the Consul was done with his cup, they moved back out to the main room. The other slave who was with her joined the women, but Tacita stood just outside Claudus’ office door- she didn’t join the other as she wasn’t technically for sale. @Sharpie(If you want to do the next post & NPC Claudus that can make it go faster)

The Senator, whom he knew to be Aulus Calpurnius Praetextatus stepped inside and Spurius followed after him. “Are you after anything in particular?” Spurius listened as he went on to say he was looking to get something for his wife, but he had nothing particular in mind. Usually something for a man’s wife from a slave merchant centered around a body slave, cosmetic slave, or general female slaves for the domestic household. “Come with me to my office- I have some refreshment available, while my foreman gathers up my slaves for you to look at.” Spurius waved a hand to the foreman, then they headed off to his office. Having seen the men approaching outside, Tacita had informed the foreman and then put her broom. Away. She generally stayed out of the way during these situations as she wasn’t technically for sale- as she was owned by Spurius, but Tacita and another woman were handed a tray of food and a jug of wine. Tacita took the jug and followed the other woman towards the office. They arrived at the door, gave a knock and after hearing Spurius’ command to enter, they entered the office. The woman who was with her set a tray down near both Spurius and his guest, gave a curtsy then stepped back out of the way. Tacita, poured a cup of wine and with a curtsy offered it to Spurius’ guest. @Sharpie

On this day, the main slave market itself was fairly quiet. Many of the vendors had warehouses surrounding the main market area where they would do business privately. Tacita had come with him on this day to the warehouse to do some general busy work- tidying the warehouse. Claudus had recently gained a new shipment of slaves which meant there was more dirt, dust and mess to take care of. She had spent the morning sweeping the dust & dirt into one larger pile and was in the process of depositing it outside when she noticed a heading in their direction. Tacita gave a quick bow and darted back inside the warehouse to inform the foreman that there was possible business. He went off to inform Claudus who went out to meet him. (Claudus) “Welcome Dominus.” He bowed then stepped back to let the man inside if he wished to enter. @Sharpie

March Tacita woke to both Corva and Linus telling her that she would be going with Claudus to the office today. She got up from her bed and put on a simple but clean tunic. Tacita took her bag, had a quick breakfast, then headed out with Claudus. They headed through the Roman streets, weaving through various side streets until they hit the market warehouse. When they entered, Tacita hung her satchel, with her wax tablet, up on a wall hook- she wasn’t allowed to use it at work unless Claudus gave her permission. Tacita gave a quick look to Claudus with a ‘do you need anything’ look and he shook his head then waved her away. He headed off towards his office and she grabbed a nearby broom and began to sweep the room. @Sharpie (for Aulus)

“I’m doing alright, I think, considering the circumstances.” She assumed he meant the earthquake. It had been tremoring for about a week, but the strongest one had occurred earlier that morning. “How are you? It appears you made it through the morning so far.” There was a little structural damage, a few broken pots and very minor injuries but overall they were lucky. “We had a few minor injuries and some structural damages. I know we are lucky- how did people fare where you are?” She wondered if the Ludus had taken more of a hit.

JULIA VALERIA- POST HEREBARBARA STILICHA- POST HERETACITA- POST HERE {may need to re-home her if her owner is dropped)

Summer in Rome meant heat, but they were heading into early Autumn which for Tacita meant relief. There were so many tasks that needed done daily regardless of the weather. Sweltering heat made tasks less enjoyable. This day was a slightly cooler day and she was using the opportunity to check out the market as she had part of the day free. Normally she would come to the market with someone to help translate, but Corva and Linus were both busy today. Corva warned her to only use their ‘regular’ merchants. By regular it meant that they knew her deficits & they knew who her master was- there was less chance that they would take advantage of her. Tacita arrived at the market, took a quick look around and then headed towards one of the stalls. At the first stall she picked out a few items to make herself a little ‘lunch’. The vendor told her the price and she used her fingers to ‘negotiate’, although not much was required. Tacita placed the items in her drawstring bag then headed off to a bench under a tree-glad for some shade. She settled herself down on the bench and pulled out the bread and fruit.

Barbara entered the triclinium and took a glance around. There were several couches and women were sitting down nearby people they knew. Barbara knew of the people here, but she was not directly connected to anyone as family or friends. She figured she would wait until people had settled where they wished and then take a spot that was leftover, but she then heard someone near her speak up “There’s a space right over here if you need one.” Barbara turned in her direction. “I would appreciate the spot, if that is alright.” After she got approval, Barbara sat down next to Pinaria. “This all looks so nice and comfortable. Horatia did a wonderful job.” Barbara agreed with Pinaria- it was absolutely beautiful and very comfortable. “It certainly does seem wonderfully comfortable in here- she has done a wonderful job. I am Barbara Stilicha.” @Atrice (also @Sara @Chevi @Dev @Anna @Laria @Echo)

Julia heard the story as it was quickly presented. She was not entirely sure what to make of it and she wondered what Juliana thought of it. Juliana was very clearly used to being the Domina of the house as she immediately began issuing orders. She sent Decimus off with the medicus to be tended, with Aia running off after them as soon as she was given permission. Juliana then walked off with her arm wrapped around Claudia. Julia was ready to step in if Juliana needed assistance, but it seemed like she had it taken care of. They were led off to the baths and Juliana left them with orders to get cleaned up then to come speak to her in the triclinium. With that Juliana left. Before Julia turned and followed her she gave a look over Claudia as if to make sure that she truly was physically okay- mentally might be another story but that would come. Not knowing what, if anything, to say she turned and followed Juliana from the room. @Atrice@Gothic@Sains@Chevi

Julia watched as her son head off and then turned towards the market stalls. Her son was taking care of any major restorations that were needed, while she had agreed to handle the smaller things. Julia had a list of purchases but the most important was replacing some of the broken pots. She walked around until she found a stall and began to look at the pots the vendor had. They were a good size and seemed solid. She was just about to get the vendor’s attention to ask him a couple of questions regarding when the pots were made and how much they were, when someone bumped into her from behind. Julia set the pot she had in her hand down before it was dropped and turned to see who it was. As she turned the man spoke up. “Apologies… oh, we met before, didn't we?” Julia looked up at him and after a moment to orient herself to the situation she nodded her head. “I believe so, Salve. It was Alexius correct? No harm done. How are you doing?” @Atrice

About a week prior to the end of June, Julia had been at her residence outside of Rome. At first the tremors were light, but her son had ordered her back to their Domus in Rome. She felt that it would have been safer to remain outside of the city, but her son did not trust the home she resided in. Julia, after making sure that the slaves of the household would take care of themselves if the tremors got worse, returned to Rome. In the early morning hours of June 30, Julia was startled awake by a strong jolt. “What was that?” It took another shake or two before she registered what it was. The light tremors had become an earthquake. Julia woke the young slave girl that was resting in the corner of her room. “Go wake the other slaves.” She threw a shawl around her shoulders and followed the young girl out of the room, running the other direction. “Wake up- there is an earthquake” It did not take long for the entire household to be woken up. A survey of the damage the following morning involved some cracking in the foundation, a few broken pots that got knocked over and a few injuries from people stumbling around in the dark. She had received word from the slaves at the farm outside Rome that most things seemed to be intact although they had to round up all the animals as they scattered when the quakes began. All in all, her 'circle' of people were lucky that injuries were minor and damage didn't seem to be severe. The next day Julia, along with her son went to the market- he needed to discuss some of the repairs that were needed and she wanted to replace some of the pots that had been broken in the tremors. “I shouldn’t be too long Sextus. I will head your direction when I am finished.” He nodded and the two of them split up. Her son sent of their male slaves with her as an escort although she didn’t really need it.

Widowhood with a grown up son had meant Julia had a lot of free time to herself-she divided her time between the small horse farm she had shared with Canus and her son’s Domus. It would be 2 years this coming Saturnalia, and she knew that society expected a woman to remarry after a suitable mourning period. She knew that her prospects had been limited with the first marriage- in fact, she thought she would never have been married in the first place. Julia figured at this point the prospects for a second marriage were going to be just as slim so she wasn’t holding her breath. With the free time she had been enjoying tending a small garden and the abundance of produce was more than she could use. Julia looked at the gathered fruit & vegetables, and after setting some aside for her she wrapped up a care package to take to Flavia. She knew Flavia had her hands full with the little ones. As a treat for them she threw in some sweet honeyed fruit. Julia wrapped a light palla around her shoulders for the travel, then took the wrapped bundle and tucked it into a basket. Stepping outside she noticed that all had been prepared for her. Julia settled herself and they were off. Although the journey wasn’t too long she did enjoy the rhythmic movement of the terrain underneath her. When they reached Flavia’s, Julia emerged and took the basket. She was welcomed by of Flavia’s slaves who went off to tell their Mistress that she had a guest. He returned shortly. “This way Domina” Julia nodded her head and followed him through the house to the garden. As she emerged into the garden she saw Flavia sitting in a chair and heard the greeting she gave. “You’ll have to forgive me, but getting up off this chair is rather difficult at the moment.” Julia cast her gaze over Flavia from top to bottom. “Do not trouble yourself- there is nothing to forgive. I hope you are doing well.” @Dev

Sounds awesome- Julia can pay Flavia a visit at her home if you want or they can meet somewhere. Barbara and Valeria certainly aren't the same status wise but the book club would be neutral ground @Dev

A few days prior to the book club Barbara and her daughter had been shopping in the market when she heard word of the book club. Her daughter had asked what exactly a book club was and when Barbara told her she scrunched up her nose ‘that’s boring mater’. Barbara gave a bit of laugh and ruffled her daughter’s hair. “You are so much like your brother…It will mostly be a chance for women to get out and socialize.” Her daughter asked if she was going. Barbara shrugged her shoulders; they finished their shopping and headed home. That had been followed up by a formal general invitation to their domus. She had discussed it with Marcus and he said the decision was up to her- Barbara wasn’t someone who absolutely needed social outings, but at the same time she had been trying to dedicate some time to herself as she got older. She had spent so many years of her earlier life caring for other and carrying so many thing on her shoulders. On the day of the book club she had one of their slaves assist her into a dark blue chiton and then arrange the palla overtop for a warmer layer. Her red curls were arranged into a braided twist. Her daughter sat on the bed watching her get dressed ‘you look lovely mater’. She gave her daughter a kiss on the forehead. “Thank you- now you be good while Mater is gone.” Her daughter nodded her head. With the warnings out of the to both her son & daughter, she left her domus and travelled to Horatia Justina’s domus. When she arrived, she noted there were a range of women that had already arrived- it did not matter that she was not the first to arrive. She greeted a couple of women on her way in, and when it was time to greet her hostess Barbara introduced herself “Thank you for hosting this event- I am Barbara Stilicha" Then followed after their hostess towards the Triclinium. @Anna @Lauren @Sara @Chevi @Atrice

Hey Atrice- I will start by throwing Barbara into the book club. Perhaps one of those she has spent so much time focused on her family that they say 'you need a night to yourself'. The other interactions might require a little more thinking- For Julia/Tertius the link could definitely be his daughter. If he has ever considered a horse for her Julia is still spending some of her days at the small horse farm 'owned' by Alaric Stilicho but formerly run by Julia's husband prior to his death, or they could meet in the market. Alexius or Helios interactions would probably be best in the market

Awesome selection of characters Atrice Lots of options *Pinaria- Barbara is close in age and they both have youngish children (Barbara's youngest daughter is turning 7 and Marcus is a few years older than that). Julia on the other hand would be older but a good listening ear. *Tertius- Would need to figure out a way for them to meet. It might be interesting to see if something could come to be between these two but if not there is a friendship option especially when it comes to his daughter- Julia loves all children. How does he feel about the Imperials- seems he is sort of neutral when it comes to politics. *Alexius- it might be fun to do a 'follow up' thread where Julia and him bump into each other again or a thread between him and Barbara- they could bump into each other somewhere and he could catch up about how the family is doing. *Helios- There certainly wouldn't be a lot of conversation options between Helios & Tacita, but if he prefers 'quiet' she would be a great person for that. She is able to engage in conversation with yes/no questions. @Atrice

Hey Dev- saw that you popped back into the discord earlier today. If you want to thread with any of your characters let me know

Bump need to get my gals back into the swing of posts- any ideas hit me up Julia: Widowed-if she marries again it will have to be someone who is an Imperialist, enjoys keeping to herself, has a grown son (from when she was a slave- he is currently an available character if someone wants to play him) Barbara: Married with 2 kids, could do with some friends although her attention is very much directed to her family. Her husband was a played character but his app has been archived. He is a praetorian guard if anyone is interested Tacita: Quiet only because she can't talk. Could do with some friends to be with but if not mostly can be found in the market or at her owner's (currently owned by Spurius Claudus) slave market warehouse.

(Definitely need one of these- too many dates/info to keep in my head...) Name: JennDescription: My character's Log: Julia Valeria, Barbara Stilicha, Tacita @Anna

Hello @Brynjahr- sorry I didn't see your initial reply to this post. He is still available if you would like to play him. Do you have any questions?

Jennifer ~ staying ~ keeping: Julia Valeria, Barbara Stilicha, Tacitadropping: n/a

Julia heard the footsteps before she saw Juliana, who a few moments later entered the room. Julia warmly accepted the hug and a kiss on either cheek. “Thank you for the invitation.” Before they could sit down for a chat the sound of horses was heard outside. It was a sound that Julia was VERY familiar with considering the property she lived on was a ‘working’ horse farm. Was Juliana expecting more company? Considering the confused look that came her way the answer to that question appeared to be no. Julia followed a few steps behind Juliana towards the door but sped up closer to Juliana’s side when she heard her gasp. In the courtyard were some figures who she would recognize in a heartbeat- Claudia whom she had known since a baby, Decimus, Aia and Cynane. It took only a quick gaze to clearly see that something very serious had happened. Juliana immediately took charge of the situation summoning her slaves to help them all down and calling for the Medicus. Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed Juliana’s young son Quintus peek from around a pillar and then go back to hiding. This was not something he should be seeing. The Medicus came running prepared to do what was necessary. Aia after hearing Juliana’s demand for an explanation gave a very precise run down of what had happened. She noted that Aia specifically mentioned Decimus’ shoulder which clearly had an arrow sticking it out of it. It was a wonder he was still conscious. Juliana declared that everyone would get washed up, wounds tended and then she would have answers- Julia wanted those answers as well. Wondering what exactly she could do as Juliana seemed to have things well in hand, she tapped a passing female slave on the shoulder “Domina Juliana’s son Quintus was hiding behind that pillar- make sure he does not witness anymore of this. If no one is able to keep an eye on him come find me.” She nodded yes and headed off in the direction of the pillar to round up Quintus. Julia then turned towards the rest of the crowd and saw that Juliana was supporting Claudia on one side and Aia had Decimus. She moved close enough that she could step up to the other side if extra support was needed. She also wondered if she should send word to Alaric for assistance but she would wait until more information was given. @Gothic @Sains @Atrice @Chevi

“I like what they do over there” Tacita followed Nymphia’s gaze back towards the crowds. They could still hear the music and laughter. A smile crossed her face as she also nodded her head in agreement. She loved watching the show as well. Sometimes she would find herself trying to ‘hum’ along to the music but if it was a tune that she wasn’t familiar with she could simply sit back and enjoy the show. She wasn’t required to say or do anything. Nymphias went to ask if she was waiting for someone here. Tacita nodded her head and pointed through the crowds over to one of the market stands. If Nymphias looked, she would see an older man doing some business with the owner. She had come in with Linus to keep him company and to help him carry things back to their Domus or the warehouse. @Beauty

"Are they... selling you?" Tacita was glad that he seemed to be understanding what she was saying, and that he had figured out to ask questions or make comments in a simple yes/no format. Not being able to communicate with words was her greatest challenge, but she was alive therefore she was determined to make the most of whatever life she was given. All in all, she had been very lucky. She had gone through a couple of masters, but each of them had been understanding and patient with her challenges. When he asked if they were selling her she shook her head no. She had been up for sale through Spurius’ warehouse a short 7months ago but Spurius himself had decided to keep her. @Chevi (we have probably reached a pretty good place to wrap it up if you want to do one more round of posts each- I can have another slave come out to 'get her' so he can at least learn her name lol)