The early morning sun shone down upon Farius as he lead his horse down the decumanus maximus, or main street, of Ostia, the port city of Rome. Located twenty miles West of Rome along the Tiber on the banks of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Ostia was the gateway to Rome. As a major port, it was a thriving city about a fourth the size of Rome itself. Behind him, Farius could hear the hooves of the thirty other horses on the paved road. A centurion of the Praetorian Guard, Farius was leading a detachment of thirty other Praetorians to escort an arriving provincial governor back to Rome to meet with Emperor Hadrian.
As they made their way through Ostia, Farius mind went back to what he knew of the man they were being sent to greet. Antonius Justus Nerva was a man with a long history of great service to Rome. In addition to numerous minor offices held early in his career, he had twice served as a legion commander, in Britainia and Spain, served in the Roman senate several times and had just finished four years as provincial governor of Greece. While Antonius Justus was a respected military commander, and skilled governor, there were aspects of his private life that made him something of a scandal within Roman high society.
Though his wife had died some ten years ago, Antonius Justus had never married again. This itself was not particularly scandalous, though for someone as successful and powerful it was a bit unusual. What truly was whispered about was the fact that he had never betrothed and married off his only daughter, something almost unheard of in Roman society, particularly within the senatorial class. To Farius, a man who had spent eight years in the Roman legions before being chosen as a Praetorian, though there were aspects of Antonius Justus that seemed strange, the only thing that mattered to him was that the Emperor seemed to favor Antonius, and that was enough.
As the detachment of Praetorians reached the docks, Farius saw that the galley carrying Antonius Justus and his household had just arrived. Several horses were already waiting for the governor and any of his staff that would ride, as well as a carpeatum, a large four wheeled covered coach, most likely for his daughter. Halting the column of Praetorians near the waiting horses and carpeatum, Farius dismounted, as did the rest of the detachment. Handing the rains of his horse to one of the nearby slaves, Farius made his way down the dock towards where the gangplank was being placed for the passengers of the galley to disembark.
As Farius reached the bottom of the gangplank, a man he could only guess to be Antonius Justus appeared at the top. He was not dressed in a toga, as Farius had half expected, but instead in his military uniform, for his position as provincial governor was both a military and political post. Though the armor he wore of his green tunic was largely ceremonial, Farius could not help note that the man before him still seemed to posses a great deal of youthful vigor as he descended from the galley, followed by two aids. One also in military uniform the other in a toga.
Greetings Antonius Justus Nevra, I am Centurion Farius of the 2nd Cohort of Caesars Praetorian Guard. I am hear to welcome you back to Rome and provide escort for you and your household back to your estate within the city. Many of your peers within the senate look forward to greeting you upon your arrival in Rome and Caesar shall be hosting a feast in your honor this evening. The Praetorian centurion said in greeting, bowing his head slightly to the governor.
Thank you for the welcome Centurion Farius, it is good to be home, for how ever short a period it may be. Replied the governor as Farius looked back up for his first up close view of the man. Antonius Justus was at least as tall as Farius and was still quite lean, very likely from continued military training. His tanned features were somewhat stoic, though his eyes seemed keenly perceptive of everything around him. His armor was a leather breastplate with silver inlaid upon the chest in the form of a hand holding aloft a sword and bolts of lightning leaping from either side of the blade.
As the governor spoke, two other figures appeared at the top of the gangplank and began their descent that Farius could not help but notice. The first could only be the governors daughter, a woman of no more than twenty years. She walked with apparent grace, dressed in a soft white stola, a long dress that went down to her sandaled feet. At the shoulders, the stola was tide over them, leaving her neckline and arms bare. Over her right shoulder was also a palla, a red colored cloth that crossed in front of her body down to her left hip. Her skin was of a deep olive complexion, likely from the warm sun in Greece and her long raven black hair seemed almost to cascade down her back. Her lovely face had a serene expression, though her eyes were no less perceptive than those of her father. Several pieces of golden jewelry set with precious stones adorned the raven haired woman, further testament to her important station.
The second figure was also a young woman, about two years younger than the governors daughter. She was also wearing a white stola, though of slightly inferior material and was not wearing a palla. Though her face was also quite lovely, the most striking feature of this other woman was her brilliant red hair. Farius also noticed her green eyes seemed to continually scan the area and her body was much more tense than the governors or his daughters. The redheaded woman also wore several pieces of jewelry, though it was of silver, with amber gems.
The governor noticed Farius attention focus briefly on the two women as the made their way down from the galley. His expression not changing he spoke once more. May I introduce my daughter, Lucilla Justina Nevra, and her servant Berit. The second introduction slightly surprised Farius, for the redheaded girl was dressed far better than any slave he had known. The Praetorian centurion also couldnt help but wonder if in the last few years the girl was not part of the reason Antonius Justus had not remarried.
Focusing on Lucilla, Farius again bowed his head. My lady, it is a privilege to meet you and to act as your escort back to the home you have been long absent from. The centurion then focused back on the governor as he continued. If you are ready governor, it is still many miles back to Rome, we had best be on our way soon. With a nod from the older man, Farius lead the group back towards the waiting horses and carpentum.
As his daughter and her redheaded servant climbed into the carpentum, seating themselves on the soft cushions within, Antonius Justus and his military aide climbed onto two of the waiting horses while Farius and the other Praetorians mounted their horses. The governors other aide remained behind to over see more of the unloading of the galley. As soon as everyone was ready, Farius gave the signal to return to Rome, and the small procession started back along the road through Ostia.
Inside the carpentum, Lucilla looked out through the gossamer linen the covered the sides of the wagon. Watching as the Praetorians formed around the carpentum and her father, who rode ahead, she looked over at her companion, Berit. An escort by the Praetorians, it would seem the new emperor wishes to honor my father.
The redheaded younger woman smirked slightly as her bright green eyes peered out at one of the Praetorians ridding to the side of the wagon. He was far enough away that he likely could hear nothing of their conversation, but one could never be too careful. They are not arresting your father, that is definitely a good sign. Berit replied in Greek, though she spoke fluent Latin, a trace of her native Celtic accent apparent in her speech. While many of the upper class in Rome might speak Greek, it was rather unlikely that any of the Praetorians understood the language.
Lucilla could not help but give Berit an amused smile as she replied in Greek. Berit, sometimes I believe you are a bit to paranoid. Why would the new Caesar wish to arrest my father? It is not particularly unusual for him to be recalled to Rome now, he held his position in Greece for the typical length of such an appointment.
The redheaded woman shrugged, seemingly unconvinced as she leaned back on some cushions. An appointment made by Emperor Trajan. Perhaps the new Caesar wishes to fill such important posts with those more loyal to him. Lucillas face went more serious now as she evenly replied. My father has always been loyal to Rome, it is not as if he is unknown to Emperor Hadrian.
The raven haired womans expression then softened once more as she continued. But whatever the case, so far there seems to be nothing to substantiate your concerns. Berit seemed to let herself relax slightly as she replied. So far. I hope Crito is not sitting idle, but following along with us.
Lucilla gave a little grin as she closed her eyes, focusing on the connection she had with the raven she had named Crito. Though the birds eyes she could see the city and countryside spread out beneath it as it flew high in the early morning sky. He is currently flying ahead of us. She replied as she opened her eyes once more letting the connection fade into its more dormant state.
Lucillas connection with the raven was part of what she had gained as a follower of Hecate, the goddess of the dark and magic, know as Trivia in Rome. Over the last four years in Greece, the raven haired woman had learned many secrets of the goddess, studying with a few of her followers that she had managed to locate. With magic viewed by many within the Roman Empire with suspicion, Lucilla made sure that very few knew of her talent. Her father knew, having helped to secure the training for her, and of course Berit knew.
Lucilla looked back outside the wagon at one of the nearby Praetorians as she heard Berit speak once more. I wonder if these Praetorians are indeed as skilled warriors as they are rumored to be? Watching the Praetorian closest to them, who seemed to be about Lucillas age, she couldnt help but smile at Berits comment. Are you intent on only trying to determine if every new man you encounter is one you can best in combat? The raven haired woman asked.
Looking over at the redheaded woman, Lucilla recalled when her father had first brought the young girl to their home in Britainia. The six year old Berit had been among those captured by her father when he had lead a Legion in a series of campaigns against the Celts. He had felt the young girl could make a suitable companion for the eight year old Lucilla. Berit had been a bit wild when Lucilla had first met her, but with a little time, she had been able to get the younger girl to trust her.
The Celtic girl learned Latin rather quickly as she became Lucillas closest friend, staying with the family as the relocated as Lucillas father moved from post to post within the Empire. While officially a slave of the family, Berit was in fact treated as anything but a slave. For twelve years she had been Lucillas confidant and friend. When Berit had reached adolescence she had begun to demonstrate unusual abilities, as she quickly became stronger than any girl her age, and even boys of the same age. With this development of her unusual strength, Lucillas father had arranged for Berit to receive training with a sword, allowing her to fill an additional role as Lucillas protector.
It is always good to measure up potential enemies, particularly to determine which of them might be the greatest threat. Berit replied as she seemed to relax a bit more. Lucilla couldnt help but laugh at her friend. As the procession continued towards Rome, the two young women continued to talk, this time in Latin, as they discussed more mundane subjects.
Legatus Kaeso Sosius Durus walked calmly along in front of the lines of soldiers in formation for inspection. In his late thirties, Kaeso Sosius had spent most of his adult life serving in the legions of Rome. For the last six years he had held the rank of legionary commander. Both of his forearms showed scars that he had received in battles for the Empire and his face was weathered by the various harsh climates he had found himself stationed in over the years.
Dressed in red tunics and lorica segmentata, or banded armor, these men were the finest soldiers under his command. Each held a pilum in his right hand, a seven foot long spear. On the right hip each had a gladius, a two foot long sword for close quarters fighting. In the left hand, each man carried the curved rectangular shield, painted red, of the Roman legions.
Arranged in five groups of one hundred and sixty men, these were the members of the 1st Cohort of Legion XXI Rapax, the Greedy. Their named stemmed not from any pursuit of monetary wealth but from the legions desire to sweep everything before them in battle. Where the other nine cohorts any legion were made up of six centuries of eighty men each, the five centuries of the 1st Cohort were always double strength, making the entire cohort just a little shy of twice the size of any of the others. The members of the 1st Cohort were also the hand picked elite, veterans of many battles.
As Kaeso Sosius walked down the well ordered lines, looking over the men with pride, he was followed closely by the senior Centurion of the Cohort, and in fact of the entire legion, the primus pilus. Tuccius was a fifteen year veteran having served with numerous legions before becoming the primus pilus of XXI Rapax. He had more than proven himself to Kaeso Sosius over the last two years while XXI Rapax had been assigned to garrison duty in Germania.
The men seem no less battle ready than they were over a month ago before our return to Rome. Well done Tuccius. Kaeso Sosius commented as he started back towards the front of the formation. Though it has been difficult to contend with the more sedate feeling here, the men have kept very busy with drills as well as working to train the new recruits within the 7th and 9th Cohorts legatus. Tuccius responded, the tone at the end an indication that he was far less pleased with the state of those new recruits.
Kaeso Sosius couldnt help but agree, while there was a need to replace the losses they had incurred in Germania, it was always a difficult task to try to bring the newer recruits to full fighting shape quickly. In most any legion, the 7th and 9th Cohorts would be filled with newer recruits. And while every effort was made to provide them with the best training possible, it was likely not until they saw battle that they would truly become legionnaires. Keep at them Tuccius. Who can say how much longer we will be here before we are sent out once again. In fact, I am afraid I must end this sooner than I would like, I need to make my way to Rome, where I will be receiving our new orders Kaeso Sosius turned to look at the old solider with a faint smile. And believe me, I will have similar trials of my own. I am afraid I will be returning from Rome with six new tribunes, all of whom will likely need to be broken in as well.
The veteran soldier shook his head slightly at the mention of the replacement of the six staff officers of the legion, all young men of the Equestrian or Senatorial classes. These six positions were political appointments, made by the provincial governor of the province in which the legion was stationed. A shame legatus, you have finally forged our current tribunes into competent soldiers. I wish them well with whatever appointments await them.
Kaeso Sosius couldnt help but smile at the rare compliment from Tuccius. For most of the current young men acting as tribunes, they would move on to political careers, acting as minor magistrates for several years before they ever served in a legion again. An effective mix of military and civilian government experience, leading to a Roman senate where at any given time nearly half had at some time served as a legionary commander. The appointment of the new tribunals would fall to the provincial governor of wherever the legion was bound to next, usually a result of favors owed to the fathers of the young men. Climbing atop his waiting horse, Kaeso Sosius looked down at his primus pilus as he replied. An inevitable change, but I will pass along your best wishes Tuccius. I am sure they will be proud to have earned your respect. I wont be back until the morrow at the earliest. The camp is yours.
Riding back towards XXIs camp, the sound of Tuccius dismissing the members of the 1st Cohort faintly audible as he rode away, Kaeso Sosius looked over the fortified camp that had been XXI Rapaxs home for the last month. It was laid out as any legion camp would be, with a ditch and palisade surrounding the camp, the tents and other set up structures inside. At each of the four corners, stretching out along the North and South sides of the palisade were the stable areas for the legions horses. The tens for the soldiers were set up within, with two wide open areas dividing the camp, one running East to West, the other North to South. The North section of the North/South opening was actually filled with a few tents, one being Kaeso Sosius, another being a headquarters meeting tent and the last a tent for an alter to the gods.
Riding in through the Southern entrance to the camp, Kaeso Sosius continued passed groups of men sitting outside their tents, resting after a long day of training. Arriving at the headquarters tent, he left his horse with a young stable boy, who tide the horse along side the six others that were already waiting there. Striding into the tent, Kaeso Sosius found the six current tribunals waiting for him, gathered around the large wooden table set up in the center of the tent. The six young men had all been with him for two or three years, the youngest being twenty, the oldest twenty two. Each had grown dramatically in their time with XXI Rapax, and would the legion ever had to go into battle as a whole, Kaeso Sosius would not have felt hesitant to place any of them in command of large sections of the legion. But now it was time for him to say farewell to them, as they moved on to the next stage of their careers.
Good afternoon legatus. Said the senior of the tribunals, Gaius Ovidius Gratus, the tribunus laticlavius, a positioned reserved for a member of the senatorial class. We trust the 1st Cohort is as disciplined as ever. Kaeso Sosius nodded with a slight grin as he moved to the head of the table. Indeed they are, but would any of us expect less with Tuccius as primus pilus? The smiles visible around the table told that nothing less was expected. With a quickly gesture from Kaeso Sosius a slave brought goblets of wine to those gathered in the tent.
Taking his last, Kaeso Sosius raised his goblet in front of him. My friends, your time with XXI Rapax has come to its end. You have brought honor to yourselves and your families. You have the thanks of the entire legion for the jobs you have done and go with both my and the primus pilus personal thanks. To the next endeavors that await you, may the gods smile upon you as they have done so far. Each of the young men around the table raised his goblet before they all drank. As they set down their empty goblets, Kaeso Sosius proudly looked from man to man for a moment before he spoke once more. Now my friends, let is be off to Rome, were we shall learn what lies in store for each of you.
A little ways outside the city walls, a young man in peasant's clothing crouched on a rock. He leaned almost lazily on a gnarled wooden staff as his herd grazed around him. Most people had heard of him. Just a slightly eccentric hermit, who's only talent was to raise the cows that were his livelyhood.
A crudely woven straw hat shaded his eyes from the sun as he stared into the distance, his gaze settling on a distant bird, flying across the sky. Pulling himself up, he wandered over to one of the cows, reaching under to scratch at its muzzle.
"A crow," he said absently, still staring at the bird. He was silent for a second before looking down at the animal beside him. "What do you think, girl? An omen perhaps?" The cow's only reply was an unconcerned stare as it continued to chew at the grass. The cow herder returned to sitting on the ground, scuffing his bare feet in the grass. It would be time to go down to the city soon to see what he could sell. Milk, animal hides, and some handmade clothing and accesories were his main wares. But not his cows. He would never sell his cows.
Well great, a freeman at last and I still end up a food taster. If I wasnt so good at detecting poisons maybe I could actually do the cooking that I enjoy. But then again if I wasnt so good at it, Id be dead ten times over.
Drusus sighed as he walked the road to the city, avoiding the manure from the old man's cows. Some big party for someone and they needed extra food tasters. He was asked to attend. He had hoped it would be as a cook he had amazing skills in the kitchen but it was like his slave days; food taster. Well maybe once again he would save someone important and get a bonus of some kind.
As an old man on the side of the road shifted, a rabbit sprinted across the road ahead of him. Drusus waited; he wanted this to be a challenge. One
two
three; he whipped the knife out and threw. The rabbit never really had a chance he would eat well tonight.
Drusus was good at three things really; cooking his first love, detecting poison mostly because of his cooking skill, and cutlery. It had started as a hobby, juggling knives while bored, and moved up to throwing and target practice on the ever-present rats and mice. It was like he had a precognition of where something would be a moment before it was there.
He continued on the road toward the busy city.
"Shut up Mr. Burton, you are not brought upon this world to get it!" - Lo Pan
@MadGremlin
The midday sun shone down over the city of Rome, the warm spring air becoming even more heated in the crowded streets of the vast city. The district to the East of the Forum was an area known as subura, the poorest part of Rome. Where most of the streets of Rome were broad, those in subura were much narrower, the crowded buildings in the district also forming narrow alleyways that were notoriously dangerous.
Sentius Libo carefully made his way down the narrow alleys of subura, keeping a close watch on those near him. He had already made a large detour through the twisting maze of alleys to avoid an area controlled by one of the gangs that held power in some sections of the district. While subura was not Sentius favorite place to journey into, he was far more comfortable in the district than his patron would. The wealthy very rarely ventured into the district, though Sentius had heard that Julius Caesar himself had once lived in the subura.
As the alleyway before him opened into an open air market, Sentius breathed a sigh of relief. While the market of subura, where the cities poor did their shopping, was more dangerous than others in the city, it was a good deal safer than most of subura and also near the edge of the district.
Moving out among the crowd that was drifting between vegetable stores, wool merchants, and numerous other stores offering everything for daily life in the city, Sentius thought how pleased his patron would be with the success of his mission in subura. Passing by a blacksmith shop, the clanging of the shopkeepers hammer on his anvil ringing out over the noise of the crowds, Sentius could see the street leading back towards the heart of the city.
Finally clearing the throng of people in the subura market, Sentius passed through more affluent neighborhoods before he reached the Forums of Rome. Great open spaces, with large columned buildings, the various Forums, each built by different emperors, were the center of life in Rome. With wheeled vehicles prohibited from driving through the streets of Rome from sunrise until the tenth hour (4 in the afternoon), the streets and squares of the Forums were crowded with pedestrians as well as occasional slave carried litters for the wealthy. Everywhere businessmen were making deals, financiers discussed loans, and the loud voices of lawyers could be heard speaking for their clients from the nearby courtrooms. Soothsayers seemed to be everywhere, yelling out either dire predictions or visions of some fortuitous event. There were also numerous performers, all hoping to catch the attention of some rich patron and be invited to perform at a private party.
A majority of the men in the Forum were dressed in togas, in fact, it was traditional for fathers to bring their sons to the Forum when they wore their toga for the first time. The wealthy were quite easy to spot, both due to their expensive clothing and jewelry, but also because of the throng of clients that tended to follow in their wake, both to see to their every need, but also to offer protection for them. Sentius made his way through the Forum of Julius Caesar, the first such Forum, as he made his way towards the newest and largest, the Forum of Trajan. As he went, he spotted a man surrounded by several adoring women, Atilius Cornutus, one of the current stars of the Circus Maxiums. Atilius was a chariot racer for the parasina (green) team and had achieved over one hundred victories. Most Romans were passionate about chariot racing, supporting one of the four teams. Even Emperors were know to provide significant backing for their favorite team.
Passing by, Sentius finally arrived at the Forum of Trajan. After a brief search, Sentius finally found his patron, Pedius Figulus, a wealthy merchant. Pedius was a large, overweight man dressed in expensive clothing, his fat fingers covered with extravagant rings to display his wealth. A slave boy with a fan followed him through the form, fanning the overweight man as he tried to keep up with his own patron. Sentius did not recognize the man Pedius was fawning after, but he was obviously a senator. Not wanting to interrupt Pedius interaction with his important patron, Sentius choose to wait until he had an opportunity to speak with Pedius alone and report the success of his mission.
(ooc thought I would use this post to provide a few more aspects of life in Rome and (hopefully) other character ideas for anyone else interested in joining in.)
Lucilla looked out the translucent curtains around the litter her and Berit were now ridding in as they arrived at her fathers estate within the city. Once they had reached the city gates, the carpentum had not been allowed to proceed further, so the two women had boarded the waiting litter to finish their trip. As the slaves carrying the litter entered the courtyard of the estate, most of the Praetorian Guard escort broke off to return to their barracks.
Farius and three other Praetorians entered the courtyard as well, stopping near the gate and dismounting as Lucillas father and aide came to a halt near the group of waiting in the courtyard. Most of those gathered were the household slaves, gathered to greet their returning master. The figure wearing a toga standing in the forefront Lucilla instantly recognized, it was her uncle Livius, a member of the Roman Senate. Just behind him were two other men in togas, men Lucilla recognized as clients of the family.
As her father greeted his younger brother and clients, the slaves set down the litter, allowing Lucilla and Berit to climb out and make their way over towards the group. Her uncle faced her with a wide smile as he came over towards her. Lucilla, it is so good to see you again. Has it really been over a year since I came to visit you in Athens? Livius gave her a slight kiss on the cheek, Roman propriety frowning on most public displays of affection. Yes it has uncle. It is good to see you well.
Berit remained back from the group, though still separate from the rest of the household staff. As the greetings finished, Centurion Farius moved over towards Lucillas father. Excuse me governor, but Caesar wished to see you as soon as possible after your arrival. Myself and a small detachment await to escort you to Caesar as soon as you are ready.
Nodding, Antonius Justus replied. Thank you centurion. Please, you and your men should relax as you wait. Signaling towards one of the waiting slaves, he continued. Furio will show you to where you can wait as well as provide you with food and drink. I shouldnt be long, I just wish to change and wash off some of the dust from the road.
The centurion nodded as he and the other Praetorians followed after the male slave. Antonius Justus then turned to Lucilla as he asked, I presume you wish to rest some after such a tiring journey Lucilla? Lucilla actually shook her head as she responded. Later father, first I would like to spend some time finding an appropriate dress for the party this evening.
Livius chuckled slightly as he looked at his brother and niece with a grin. Best be careful brother, not even an hour back in Rome and she is ready to make her way to the Campus Martius and shop. You really should see to marrying her off so she can spend her husbands money and not yours. While some might have felt that Livius was being somewhat out of line, being the younger brother, Lucilla knew that her uncle meant well, both for her father and her.
Her father did not seem bothered by his brothers comment as he nodded to Lucilla. Very well, dont spend to much time shopping however, you should get some rest before tonight. One of her fathers clients then spoke up. If you wish Antonius, my oldest son is at home at the moment, I am sure he would be honored to provide your daughter with an appropriate escort for her trip into the city.
Her father thought for a moment before nodding. Lucilla, be sure to stop by Aemilius home before continuing. Leaving things at that, he then turned back towards the entrance to the home, walking along side Livius as the younger brother began telling some of the more recent news of Rome. Aemilius gave instruction to a young slave that was nearby, the boy running off ahead to notify Ameilius son to expect Lucilla. As their master left, the slaves gathered in the courtyard looked to Lucilla to be sure they were free to return to their duties.
Nodding her consent, the raven haired woman then looked back over towards Berit with a smile. The younger woman seemed to be having some mixed emotions regarding their shopping trip. While she was sure to want to see the sights of Rome once more, she was also likely somewhat worried about possible dangers to Lucilla. Making their way over to the litter, the carriers still waiting, the two young women climbed aboard as Lucilla gave them instructions to make their way to Amerilius home. She likely would do as her uncle had commented and start her shopping at the Campus Martius, where the luxury shops were located, and afterwards a trip to the argiletum and the numerous bookshops as well as shoe shops located there.
The cow herder pushed his rickety old wagon into the city, joining the crowd of shops and stalls. His herd remained on the hill. They would stay there until his return. His cows were very well trained, something the cow herder was very, very good at.
He pushed his cart into it's usual spot and unpacked. Nothing special, just draping some hides over the sides of the cart and hanging some of the hand-made necklaces and braclets (mostly leather) on the corners. Sitting himself on the ground he whittled camly at some wood as he waited for customers.
Drusus made his way through the Subura and the market. He sighed, all that hard work to become a freeman and it was certainly a step down. As a slave he had lived and worked in palaces. Sure he was at the beck and call of the master and lived in the slave quarters, but even the worst slave quarters were better than these slums. Now he had to dodge thugs and robbers; before he just dodged old men who liked young boys. Well ok, maybe hed rather be beaten up and robbed than the alternative. But living in squalor was no good.
In the market he traded the rabbit pelt for a much-needed new pair of sandals. As he pushed his way through the crowd to the location of his accommodations a smelly, haggard old man in a hooded cloak slipped up to him and pressed a roll of parchment into his hand. Drusus looked surprised and was about to say something when the old man gave him a toothless smile and spoke.
We know you can read it, consider the offer, we will make it worth your while.
Then he was gone into the crowd and Drusus lost sight of him.
Drusus held the parchment tightly until he was clear of the crowd. He didnt understand how anyone knew he could read, or for that matter know he was here. It was rare for former slaves to read and write, but Drusus had a keen interest and often was required to read recipes or write them down for others. He sat down and opened the parchment
"Shut up Mr. Burton, you are not brought upon this world to get it!" - Lo Pan
@MadGremlin
As the sun rises over the Campus Martius, the various shops begin to come to life, preparing for the business of the coming day. One particular shop stands out, as it is inhabited by but a single person, and an unusual one at that. The figure is covered in robes of a delicate pale blue, adorned with intricate designs in a bright, bold orange. The wares of the shop are equally unique, displaying fabrics of brilliant colors, containers holding strange liquids and powders, and a very small selection of jewelry that resembles lace, were it fashioned of crystal.
This individual, apparently a woman, had come from the barbarian regions in the company of an older man, presumably her father. They gained entrance to the Roman Empire, achieved citizenship with surprising ease, and, through the sale of their exotic wares, quickly ascended to a position among the wealthy members of society.
The unusual circumstances of their entry into the empire, their quick rise in wealth, their seclusive nature, even their unusual wares, has led to many dark rumors about the pair. It is suggested that, late at night, sorcerous rituals are performed, that the young woman wears the robes to hide scars from blood offerings while communing with demons or worshipping dark gods, and other unsavory speculations.
On the surface, however, they are paid a healthy amount of respect becasue of their financial status, with a slight distaste because of their Barbarian origin. Whether the rumors are true or not, there is rarely a lack of demand for the strange and beautiful wares in which they specialize.
(ooc This post is a slight move ahead in time in the thread, but something that I feel might be helpful for anyone still considering joining and looking for possible ways to join in. I will get back to the little shopping trip and some actual rping interaction in this rping thread 
Things will develop a little slow at the start of this, but as things move forward there should be much more interaction.)
Kaeso Sosius stood quietly to the side as he watched the meeting between Emperor Hadrian and one of the provincial governors, Antonius Justus Nerva. Kaeso Sosius had been a little surprised by the Emperors new orders for XXI Rapax, given his to date non-aggressive stance for the empire. Judaea and Arabia Petraea were right at the boarder with the Parthian Empire making conflicts with Parthian forces common occurrences, even in this time of peace. In addition, local uprisings seemed quite common in the region and the new Caesar was wanting to halt these civil disturbances.
Emperor Hadrian had recalled Antonius Justus from Greece to make him the new governor of the area, which made him Kaeso Sosius direct superior. The legatus had never met the governor before, but he had heard of him by reputation. There were already three other legions in the region, legions I Parthica, II Parthica and III Parthica, all raised for the Eastern campaigns and left to garrison there once the war ended. The addition of XXI Rapax would make a formidable force, a very clear indication of the emperors desire to bring the troubled area to heel.
As the emperor finished explaining his wishes to Antonius Justus, the new governor of Judaea and Arabia Petraea was dismissed. As the older man made his way from the emperors audience chamber, Kaeso Sosius moved to join him. Governor Nerva, I am Legatus Kaeso Sosius Durus of XXI Rapax. It is an honor to be serving with you.
Antonius Justus looked over at the legionary commander with an intent gaze, seeming to size up the man with what he had heard of him. Greetings Legauts Durus, I heard reports of the accomplishments of XXI Rapax in Germania. You are to be congratulated on your successes. The addition of XXI Rapax to the forces in the region is a great comfort. What is the status of the legion currently?
Kaeso Sosius was pleased with the direct business attitude of the governor as he quickly responded. The cohorts are currently at full strength, though the 7th and 9th are almost completely full of new recruits that replaced our losses. The older man gave the legatus a slight smile as he replied. Is that not usually the case?
Indeed. Kaeso Sosius acknowledged. In addition there will be a thousand auxiliary cavalry and two thousand auxiliary infantry attached to the legion making a full combat force of over eight thousand men. But I am lacking a command staff. All of my tribunals tours ended today. The governors face became one of thoughtful contemplation for a few moments before he replied. Six new tribunals to appoint. Given the situation we find ourselves venturing into, I will do my very best to find you the most competent young men I can legatus. It may take a few days however, but I am sure you will have plenty to arrange to prepare the legion for deployment.
Kaeso Sosius nodded in agreement as he came to a halt, Antonius Justus halting as well to face the legatus. Very much, in fact, unless you have further need of me at the moment I should get orders to my primus pilus to break camp and move the legion closer to Ostia to easier facilitate boarding the transports once I procure them.
See to your men legatus. The governor replied. You and I will have plenty of time to talk more over the next few days. I hope you will be attending Caesars party this evening? Kaeso Sosius nodded, actually he had been slightly surprised to be invited to the party in honor of Antonius Justus and his new post. Yes I have, until this evening governor.
Lucilla had proceeded with Berit to the home of her fathers client, where they were greeted by his son Velius Seneca. Velius was about a year younger than Lucilla, and currently serving as a minor magistrate in nearby Ostia. While rather average looking, he did seem quite fit and choose to walk along side the litter as they made their way to the Campus Martius to start the shopping trip.
Berit had remained silent as Lucilla and Velius had talked during their trip through the streets of Rome. The young man seemed to find Lucillas unmarried status as an opportunity to possibly earn favor with her in the hopes it could lead to a possible marriage and thereby improve his families connection with Lucillas family. It was nothing new, over the years, many young men from various families had all thought the same thing. To Berit, the intricate game was rather tedious, but Lucilla never seemed to tire of it.
So while the two talked, the young Celtic woman had spent her time regarding the sites of the city. Though she had been too Rome before, and even spent a few years here when Lucillas father had served in the Senate, the grandeur of the city always amazed her. Even the cities of Greece, where she had just spent the last four years were not quite as impressive.
Finally they arrived at the entrance to the Campus Martius, Lucilla having the slaves stop and place the litter off to the side of the street in an area several others waited in. While they could have continued on aboard the litter, the raven haired woman had felt that it would be good to walk past each of the shops, making seeing what each had to offer much easier. The litter bearers were more than happy for the break, moving to a shaded area to rest.
As the three started into the row of shops, Berit stopped by an old wagon that was set up as a cart just near the entrance. She could still see Lucilla and Velius from there, knowing Lucilla would likely not move to quickly ahead, so she began examining the leather items the man had for sale. Finding a leather bracelet that she found interesting, she looked down at the man who was whittling a piece of wood. How many Sestertii for this one? She asked him in Latin.
Further ahead, Lucilla and Velius were still talking as Lucilla came to a halt in front of store with a display of vibrant fabrics. This one looks like an interesting place to start. She commented as a slight grin came to Velius face. You have a good eye milady. This is indeed one of the more exotic shops on the street, though there are a number of rumors regarding the woman who runs it.
Lucilla looked back at the young man with an arched eyebrow. Is that so? What kind of rumors? Velius leaned in a bit closer so he could be heard over the crowds in the street as he spoke a bit quieter. Quite a few of them actually. They came from unknown parts, one of the barbarian lands, and quickly earned citizenship and wealth. Some say they perform sorcerous rituals at night, that they deal with demons and dark gods. But still, the wondrous items they sell are in high demand.
A slight smile came to Lucillas face as she focused back on the shop. Is that so, all the more reason to have a closer look at what they have to offer then. With that she made her way into the shop, followed closely by Velius.
[ QUOTE ]
How many Sestertii for this one? She asked him in Latin.
[/ QUOTE ]
The cow herder looked up at the young woman. As he rose and took the bracelet he noted the hard look of the her hands. Tough and sturdy looking. A farmer's hands, or a fighter's. Looking at the bracelet carefully, he seemed to consider for awhile.
"I'm afraid," he said, smiling from under his hat, "that I am a bit uninformed on modern prices. Tell me," he handed the bracelet back to her, "what would YOU charge for it?" His tone held no hint of bartering, just a calm good-naturedness, as though he was generally curious.
Drusus had recognized the symbols in the corner of the small piece of parchment; those that his mother had shown him.
The note was simple:
We know who you are and we know who your mother was. You belong with us.
There was a time and a place written to meet; after dark at a certain street corner. It was not a place that he wanted to be walking alone, after dark, to meet some unknown persons. Yet those symbols were clear he did have a connection with whomever wrote the note.
He tucked the piece of parchment into his belt and wandered out into the crowd of the Campus Martius. He noticed the old cow herder standing at a wagon selling his wares. The woman that approached the wagon caught Drusus attention. Drusus took a moment to fix his new sandal as he watched her. She was foreign northern probably but yet her skin was quite tanned and for some reason very attractive. There was also something about the way she stood and carried herself; weight evenly balanced, careful, measured steps, always seeming to know what was around her
That was the way of a seasoned warrior. Drusus had been up close with enough well trained warriors to know their ways. He had seen men twice her age that had seen multiple campaigns and did not carry themselves as she did. She may be dressed as a woman of some means, but the trained eye could tell that she was a warrior.
Suddenly he realized that if she were to notice him watching her, he could easily be a victim of that combat skill. He looked down and finished tying his sandal.
"Shut up Mr. Burton, you are not brought upon this world to get it!" - Lo Pan
@MadGremlin
Berit regarded the cow herder with a look of amusement over the fact he could be selling goods, but not be sure what to sell them at. Well, I am afraid I dont know what prices are like here in Rome either. I have been in Greece the last four years. She replied. It was then that she had a feeling as if someone had been watching her. Taking a quick look around her, she didnt see anyone that looked like a threat.
The slim redhead also noticed as Lucilla and Velius entered into one of the shops a little way into the Campus. Focusing back on the cow herder, she continued. Something like this would usually sell for two or three sestertii in Greece. How about I give you five?
"I'm inclined to think your offer too generous," the cow herder smiled, bowing his head slightly. "But I have never been one to slap aside the hand of fortune." As he accepted the money, he reached down, picking up the small wooden object he had been whittling.
"Perhaps you'd accept this in return for your generosity, free of charge. I noticed you entered with a friend or two. Maybe one of them would find it.... amusing." Still smiling he held out a small wooden sculpture of a raven.
Berit returned the cow herders smile as he took her money for the leather bracelet. But when he reached down and picked up the small object he had been whittling, her smile faded at his words. Glancing down at the small finely carved sculpture of a raven, she was very bothered how he could possibly even have an idea it might be of importance to Lucilla.
While his apparent knowledge was troublesome, the redheaded young woman realized she couldnt let it visibly effect her so much and quickly brought a smile back to her face. Meeting his eyes, she nodded as she spoke. It is finely sculpted, I am sure my mistress will appreciate it greatly. Perhaps you should seek more work in carving? I had best be going so I dont fall too far behind.
With that she started back down the street towards the shop Lucilla and Velius had gone into, taking another glance in the direction that she had thought someone had been watching her from previously to ensure that no one was paying unusual attention to her.
The herder bowed his head a little at her thanks, seemingly unaware of her moment of apprehension, a small smile still on his face.
"Of course. Good fortune to you." After her departure, he returned to his seated position, again whittling at some wood. A small spinning toy this time. It was always a rather popular item for him.
Samen readjusted her dark green cloak, making sure it covered her bow and quiver, as she walked up to the gates. Her heart hammered in her chest but her outward appearence was calm. Her mind kept running over the words one of the priestesses of Luna had taught her. The language of Rome was unfamiliar and difficult.
She glanced at one of the gate guards and smiled softly as he stared at her. She bowed her head in acknowledgement as she tried to slip past him. He leaned a spear out in front of her path and asked her to halt.
She sighed mentally as she turned her lilac-colored eyes to him. Her mind kept repeating the few phrases of Latin that she knew. She had hoped and prayed to Cerridiwen that she could just pass through but seeing she was obviously not from the Empire and quite definatly Celtic or a northern barbarian to these haunty, egotisical Romans.
"What business do you have here, barbarian?" he asked, staring her up and down.
"I am merely visitng the great city of Rome as I continue on my pilgrimage," she replied, her accent lilting some of the words.
"Pilgrimage? What kind of pilgrimage does a heathen go on? One brought on by thier false gods?" he laughed at her, from under his helm.
She grited her teeth as she clenched her fists at her side. She felt the annoyance of her goddess rise within her. At least the priestesses in the temple of Luna, understood. It appears only the intelligent ones are those devouted to Gods.
Samen reached into one of the pockets of her belt and withdrew the token of Luna. She showed it to the guard and smiled truimphantly as his eyes went wide.
"Luna has called me from my lands. It is by will of my goddess and one of yours that I continue on my path. So please let me pass unmolested," she replied, staring defiantly into his surprised eyes.
He mumbled something under his breath and stepped aside for the raven haired young woman. She replaced the token and strolled through the gates.
She fell into step with the morning crowds as her lilac eyes screached her new surrondings. She took a deep breath as she realized the size of the city. It was nothing compared to her home back in Erea, and her clan was fairly large.
Her brown and green leather clothing, stood out against the silken gowns and togas of the citizens. She pulled her cloak tighter around her and tried to remain unobtrusive. She found her way to some kind of market place and felt her heart lighten. The sheer diversity of all the merchants astounded her. So many different races of tribes and people.
Maybe I will find a fellow Celt? They might be able to point me in the right direction.
She began to make her way through the crowded market, checking out each stand and rug laid out. Several trinkets caught her eye as she scanned the merchants.
Her fingers, in her nervousness, unconsiously went to the silver cross she kept hidden under her vest. Her fingers traced the circle and the cross pieces, feeling the knot work her people were known for under her fingertips. It reassured her as she continued to walk.
Oh, please protect Bel until I can find him, Great Mother. I am your humble servant, Cerridiwen.
While she was praying silently, Samen did not see where she was going, her attention on one of the stalls. She bumped into someone and fell back on her rump with an soft grunt. She stared up at the man she had run into, her eyes wide with fear. He was apparently tying his sandal.
"I'm so sorry!!!" she replied quickly in Gaelic.
"Oh," she tried again, realizing he probably couldn't understand her," Forgive me..." she tried again in Latin.
Drusus watched the exchange between the old herder and the warrior woman. He glanced away when she turned to look, hoping he was not noticed.
[ QUOTE ]
While she was praying silently, Samen did not see where she was going, her attention on one of the stalls. She bumped into someone and fell back on her rump with an soft grunt. She stared up at the man she had run into, her eyes wide with fear. He was apparently tying his sandal.
"I'm so sorry!!!" she replied quickly in Gaelic.
"Oh," she tried again, realizing he probably couldn't understand her," Forgive me..." she tried again in Latin.
[/ QUOTE ]
Surprised, Drusus rolled and came to his feet in a fighting stance, hands reaching for the hidden knives. He quickly relaxed when he saw the lovely woman in the green cloak who had just bumped into him; another northern barbarian it seemed were they invading?
She said something in some barbarian tongue, though it sounded quite pretty, and then followed up in accented Latin.
Were he a normal roman citizen, he would most likely have spat upon the foreigner, but Drusus had worked alongside, and been friends with, everyone from Picts and Brits to Egyptians and Nubians. Through his mothers teachings and his own experiences he had learned to judge an individual on their own merits.
Please, it was my fault; I am the one who should ask for forgiveness. What was I thinking crouched down practically in the middle of the street. He held his hand out to help the young lady to her feet. Are you new to Rome?
"Shut up Mr. Burton, you are not brought upon this world to get it!" - Lo Pan
@MadGremlin
The old man moved easily through the crowd. His white hair was cut short to as was the style with the more prosperous, but he wore a thick beard. The lines in his face were deep, almost crevices, and he looked as old as the earth itself. His eyes, however, were a sharp gray. He wore the toga of a wealthy merchant. He carried a staff with Greek letters and the image of a winding snake carved in it.
He walked to the shop of the barbarians. They were, of course, the only ones who would have the herbs and ingredients he needed to create his pain-killing potions and healing drafts. It was incredible; as soon as a region became civilized, they forgot all the wisdom and knowledge of their forebears. The old man had seen it happen again and again.
Even that cowherd there, carving out a spinning top, probably knew more about healing that most of the doctors in the city. There were times the old man wished he could go back and slap both Hippocrates and Aristotle up along side the head. They both had gotten so full of themselves, and their followers expanded on that gross sense of importance.
As he stepped past the cowherd, he also saw something else refreshing; a young Roman man helping an obviously northern woman up and speaking politely to her. Perhaps there was hope for this civilization yet.
The Ancient Doctor stepped into the shop and looked around for the young woman or the older man.
[ QUOTE ]
A slight smile came to Lucillas face as she focused back on the shop. Is that so, all the more reason to have a closer look at what they have to offer then. With that she made her way into the shop, followed closely by Velius.
[/ QUOTE ]
The interior of the shop is well-lit and warm, with the slighest hint of incense. Bolts of vibrant fabrics, in a wide range of color and quality, line the walls. Further inside, there is a table, bearing jars, bowls, and vials, each appearing to contain some sort of powder or liquid, and, finally, along the back wall, the various pieces of jewelry are displayed.
As the old man and the younger pair enter, the robed figure steps forward from beside the table. She appears to diminish in height, bowing her head while she spreads the skirts of her robes.* Rising to her normal height, her head still slightly bowed, she speaks to them, "Salvete. Appetisne auxiliatum meum?"**
*Put simply, she curtsies
**Roughly: "Good Morning. Do you desire my help?"
She stared at the gentleman with a slight fright in her lilac eyes as he went into a crouch. Her hands tensed for a moment, readying to reach for her boot dagger. She noticed he had relaxed and she followed suit.
He reached his hand out to her as she concentrated on his words, picking out a few words she could recognize.
She tenitively took his hand as she stood. She flipped her long, curling, deep auburn hair behind her shoulder as she smiled at the man.
"I am obvious, yes?" she replied as she straightened her cloak with a soft chuckle," Once again, forgive me, Master..."
She smoothed her skirt as she continued to smile at the stranger. Since she had strated her training as the priestess of her clan, her grandmother, the current high priestess, had been teaching her more civilized manners. Growing up in a household of several male warriors had made her a slight tom-boy, or so says her elder.
She continued to beam at the stranger. Her smile warm as the rays of the sun, but calm as the light of the moon. It was a smile that moved men's hearts as easily as leaves caught in the wind. Her Uncle Oisin , the clan leader, would joke with her and tell her that she could be the head of his armies in battle as long as she came armed with that smile, no man would dare raise a weapon.
" I do hope you are in good health? I did not cause injury did I?" she asked as she noticed the dirt on his toga.
She leaned down slightly to dust away the grit clinging to the fabric when she froze, hand out, and stared sheepishly up at the man. She blushed brightly and stood again, embaressed. She wasn't quite sure what was proper behavior in Rome. She shifted nervously.
---------------------
Bel paced his cell like a caged animal. No! Now I trully am a caged animal. he thought to himself as he continued to walk the confines of his prison.
He ran a hand through his wild, curly blond locks. He blew at the strand that fell into his eyes. They had cut his long, mid-back braids. Now he was stuck with ear length hair he could do nothing with. His worn sandals slapped against the stone floor with his angry walk. He had to figure out how to escape.
If he could survive long enough, Pernious, his new master, said he would free him that is once Pernious' pocket was lined with enough money to make him live more comfortably. But, this was a roman dog's word, which meant nothing to him.
Bel stopped and stared out the small barred window that faced the collesuem. The chants of the crowds had finally begun to fade from his memories of the day before. He stared sadly down at his hands and flinched at the dried blood stuck under his nails. He was no stranger to battle. Forged a man on the fields, fighting the Norse tribes and the Romans alike, he had earned his birth name on the field. The men clamied he fought with a fury akin to fire. He burned a path through the enemy forces and sent the glorious fear of the dawning sun into the heart's of those who remained. His highland Uncle Collum , from his mother side, said his mother had named him aptly.
"Burn brightly, my little sun. Let no man tame your passion," she would say to him when he was a little boy.
He wrapped his strong hands around the bars of the window in frustration. Someone had captured the sun. He sighed in futility and rested his forehead against the cool stone wall as he continued to stand. He felt lost. There was an cold, emptiness in his heart that began to eat away at him after his capture several months ago as he helped his mother's tribe fight for their lands against the Romans. He had felt incomplete since he left her side.
"Samen," he whispered outloud in his native tongue, hoping she could hear him, but guessed it was no good.
His head snapped up, staring back out the window as he felt a familair pricking across his skin. A soothing sensation, almost like when his mother would caress his forehead when he was sick.
"My moon has come," he smiled out through the bars.
His attention was quickly drawn away as he heard the clinking of armor and the soft steps of a woman. He glanced over his shoulder with a dark stare, his sky blue eyes burning. A beautiful, young noble woman with flowing brown hair smiled hungrily at him.
"Is this the one you want, my lady?" the guard asked, nodding in Bel's direction.
The woman's brown eyes trailed over his lean, muscular form. Her eyes lingering on his intricate knot-work tattoo covering the length of his right arm and most of his shoulder. A lecherous smile curved her lips as her eyes moved over his lower body.
"Yes. This is the one," she replied as she handed over a small purse, jingling with coins.
"You know the rules, barbarian scum," the guard replied as he unlocked the cell door.
Bel turned to face them. He smirked as the woman gasped in surprise and lust.
"Of course," he grunted back, his accent showing, as he watched the woman enter his cage.
She reached a shaky hand out to touch the tattoo on his chest, over his heart. The strange archaic tattoo looked like the sun and moon were melting together. He grabbed her wrist roughly but didn't squeeze. No one was allowed to touch that tattoo.
"That's not what you want to touch," he growled at her with his deep voice.
She shivered as he embraced her roughly, knowing exactly what she paid for. After all since he began fighting in the arena, he had become quite popular with the noble ladies.
What warrior wouldn't want a life of brutal fighting and plentiful women, he thought to himself as he kissed the woman.
Maybe freedom and my missing half back.
The cow herder had set a couple of the small toys spinning as he finished the one he was working on. He took a moment, looking around at everything around him, his eyes finally resting on the small girl in front of him, staring at the spinning toys.
He smiled at her and asked her name. She replied hesitantly, her voice barely above a whisper. Taking his old knife, the cow man scratched her name into the toy in his hands.
"Here you are, young mistress," he tossed the wooden plaything to the surprised girl. "With my compliments." The child grinned broadly at him, thanking him quickly before turning and rushing away with her prize.
((ooc Many might recognize the title of this thread from a scene in Gladiator where Commodus and his sister are talking about Rome. This thread is a roleplaying story idea that has been an idea of mine for well over a year now. The general concept is one developed by a friend of my on the old CoH roleplaying boards back before the game was released. This friend, who posted under the name COR, started a thread called Alterverse, where we took our characters that we had been developing in other threads and altered them for this fantasy setting the COR had developed. Similar to DC Comics Elseworlds stories, it took familiar characters and placed them in completely different settings. COR started two of these Alterverse type threads, one the fantasy setting which was the original and another a modern world where Germany had won WW II. Another friend on the old boards started a third of these type of threads, one set in the early part of Queen Victorias rule of England.
Following in this tradition, this thread will be set in Ancient Rome, during a period historians call the Five Good Emperors. The year is 119 AD, the second year of Emperor Hadrians rule following the death of Trajan. This is about height of the Roman Empire with it reaching the extent of its expansion in terms of territory. Though its power is at its peak, there are still several enemies threatening the empire. To the East is the Parthian Empire, against whom Rome fought several wars, one having just been fought under Trajan from 114 to 117 AD. At the end of this war, Rome annexed the provinces of Armenia, Mesopotamia and Assyria. Following Trajans death, Hadrian made peace with the Parthians and returned Mesopotamia and Assyria. In addition, several barbarian tribes threaten the Northern and Northeastern boarders of the empire, places like Germania and parts of present day Eastern Europe.
I will try to be accurate to the period for the most part, though there will be times that some artistic license will need to be taken. For those interested in joining the thread, characters will have to have powers toned down a great deal from the levels present in most other threads on these boards. While the characters will likely have abilities that make them greater than normal men, they should still should be a far cry from the standard heroes we play in game and write about in other threads.
I would like for characters to fit into the setting, that is ones that would logically have contact with Rome, if they are not Roman themselves, which a majority of the characters should likely be. Mythological creatures should not serve as a character, while some creatures of myth will likely appear during the thread, they are better left as potential opponents and extremely rare. Additionally, it would be nice to see a variety of characters, not that we dont have such in other threads, but in a thread such as this, I think there might be some temptation for a number of people to choose something similar, like all being gladiators.
There are three posts that I will be posting immediately, which will both help to set the stage somewhat, but also introduce some possible means for characters to enter into the central story line. The first thread talks a bit about the political climate of Rome and introduces one of the major NPCS for the thread. An important element of Roman society to consider is the client system, a system by which members of lesser families would ally themselves with more powerful families, essentially become the client of the patron family. The clients would provide support for their patron, which could take many forms, both militarily, politically or economically. The patrons would support their clients as well, providing such things as political or military appointments.
The third post contains a lot of information about the Roman military as well as providing some potential for those who might be interested in having characters involved in the military. Please feel free to send me a private message if there are any questions on how to possibly join the thread. For now, the thread is open, but if there is a lot of interest and a large group gets involved, I might have to close it to new members for awhile.
Whew, long intro done, hope there are those out there that will find this thread interesting.))