(ooc, Seniara, it is no longer morning, more early afternoon. Going to have to make up for the fact that Lucilla entered the shop well before the Ancient Healer )
Lucilla and Velius had only spent a little time looking at some of the colorful fabrics in the shop before Berit had caught up with the pair. The raven haired woman looked at the redheaded Celtic girl with a smile. There you are, something must have caught your eye for you to fall behind like that.
When Berit did not smile back at the slight teasing, Lucilla realized something was bothering the younger woman. Berit came closer to Lucilla, holding out a small wooden figurine. Yes, some well made leather goods, but what is more unusual is the vendor gave me this saying you would likely find it interesting. The raven haired woman took the small figurine and held it up to examine it.
When she saw what it was, she slightly caught her breath before she recovered her shock. Velius seemed oblivious to her surprise, still looking at the fabrics. The small raven was finely carved, but the implication that this vendor could somehow know of her connection with her raven, Crito, was what was truly disturbing. She was about to question Berit more about this vendor when another individual entered the shop.
The old man that entered caught Lucillas attention, the questions about the carver of the raven figurine now somewhat less important as she studied the new comer. He appeared quite old, but not in the way of most of the elderly she had met. In many ways, there was something about him that reminded the raven haired Roman noblewoman of the old woman her father had found for her magical instruction on Crete. For as old as the man appeared, he seemed rather healthy for that age, he also possessed an aura of great wisdom.
It was at that moment that the shop keeper arrived to, greeting the four and asking if they needed assistance. Lucilla turned towards the woman with a smile. For now I am just surveying your impressive wares. The elder appears to have a clear idea of what he requires, please assist him first, it could be some time before I make up my mind. She then looked over towards the old man with a warm smile before returning to examining the exotic items within the shop.
As Lucilla returned to browsing, Berit noticed as two young men entered the shop, two that she recognized right away. One was the son of one of a client of Lucillas father, Lucius Marius. The other was one of Lucius slaves and an apprentice silversmith. Leaning in towards Lucilla slightly, the redheaded young woman whispered. Brutus and Pyris.
[ QUOTE ]
"I am obvious, yes?" she replied as she straightened her cloak with a soft chuckle," Once again, forgive me, Master..."
[/ QUOTE ]
Master? You must have me mistaken with some of these nobles and merchants around here. Im Drusus, just Drusus. He made a point of the single name. He had worked hard to escape the life of a slave and had not taken parts of his former masters names like most freed slaves did.
[ QUOTE ]
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, embarrassed. She wasn't quite sure what was proper behavior in Rome. She shifted nervously.
[/ QUOTE ]
Um
Im fine. Drusus was distracted by that face
those eyes
that smile
Are you ok? He said as he started to brush himself off, not taking his eyes off of the womans face. He was snapped out of it when she reached toward him, and then noticed her embarrassment. Drusus blushed a little too, but then smiled trying to make her feel more comfortable. He knew that his slim, defined face and dark hair could never muster a smile like this woman.
What brings you to Rome? He said, still somewhat distracted by the raven-haired beauty.
"Shut up Mr. Burton, you are not brought upon this world to get it!" - Lo Pan
@MadGremlin
[ QUOTE ]
For now I am just surveying your impressive wares. The elder appears to have a clear idea of what he requires, please assist him first, it could be some time before I make up my mind. She then looked over towards the old man with a warm smile before returning to examining the exotic items within the shop.
[/ QUOTE ]
Glancing at the Celtic girl and the northern shopowner, and remembering the northern woman in the green dress outside, the Ancient Doctor thought, Interesting. Ive seen more northerners today than I have seen in months, and all in the same place.
In lightly accented Latin, the old man asked What language are you most comfortable in? I have a lengthy list, and I speak many languages. The Doctor smiled through the bushy beard. I dont even know the Latin word for some of the herbs and concoctions I hope you have.
[ QUOTE ]
As Lucilla returned to browsing, Berit noticed as two young men entered the shop, two that she recognized right away. One was the son of one of a client of Lucillas father, Lucius Marius. The other was one of Lucius slaves and an apprentice silversmith. Leaning in towards Lucilla slightly, the redheaded young woman whispered. Brutus and Pyris.
[/ QUOTE ]
The old man glanced over his shoulder at the pair of men who entered the shop. A quick glance told him that they were related probably brothers, or maybe cousins. He also recognized that, despite their plain white tunics, they were wealthy. You have wealthy customers entering, the Ancient Doctor said in the northern Germanic tongue. I will browse and shop as you serve them. His dialect was archaic, but still understandable.
((edited for clarity))
[ QUOTE ]
You have wealthy customers entering, the Ancient Doctor said in the northern Germanic tongue. I will browse and shop as you serve them. His dialect was archaic, but still understandable.
[/ QUOTE ]
Pyris turned and noticed the old man pointing at them. He looked over to see Brutus staring at some cloths holding in his hand some linen. Pyris tugged on the shoulder of Brutus' tunic, trying to get his attention. As Brutus turned to look down at Pyris, it seemed like things were said but not heard. Brutus instinctively followed Pyris' point and noticed the shopkeep. He gazed calmly trying to see what Pyris was pointing at, before his eyes fell upon Lucilla and Berit. "Ah ladies, I did not see you when I entered."
Brutus turned on his charm and glided over to the girls, completely ignoring the men standing around them. "It is a pleasure to see you again, Miss Lucilla, and you too, Miss Berit. What brings you to the Campus Martius today?"
Pyris watched Brutus glide over to the two women by the shopkeep. He hated being left alone like that, but it was not his place to protest. His eyes flashed a saddness as he gazed towards the group, feeling outcast yet again. Odd that Pyris would be jealous of Brutus speaking to the women, he would rather have nothing to do with anyone at all. He looked around and then back to the list he had been given by Lucius. He was starting to learn how to read, not truly understanding some of the words. Knowing the combinations of symbols usually helped him associate them with the objects they represented. Staring at the list, he struggled in his head to remember what cloth was. He found two entries on the parchment: linens, and wools. The dimensions weren't mentioned, but Pyris knew from experience what he needed. He continued his search, picking up the sheet that Brutus had been holding. The quality was exotic, and definitely seemed like it would work, even though it was not quite the linen he knew his master sought. Fortunately, it was white. He took the sheet and held it while he searched for the woolens.
Summer Heat
Lucilla smiled at Brutus as he moved over towards her and the others, as the son of one of her fathers important clients, she had known him for several years. Good afternoon Brutus, so wonderful to see you as well. She replied. My I introduce Velius Seneca, the son of one of my fathers Rome based clients, Ameilius Seneca. She added, gesturing to the shorter Velius.
Berit simply smiled in reply as Lucilla spoke, glad that as a slave she really didnt have to comment with her mistress present to speak for her. She glanced over towards the smaller figure of Pyris, noting a slight look of sadness before her started going back to looking at a list in his hand. He seemed slightly confused by the list, and she though of going over to see if he needed help, but figured it would probably be better she remain where she was for the moment, at lest until Brutus focused his attention a bit more on Lucilla.
Though there were obvious differences between Pyris and Brutus, Berit could also see some of the similarities, which made her rather certain that Lucius Marius was father to both. It was not at all uncommon for Roman slave owners to father children with their female slaves. Berit felt fortunate that Lucillas father was not such an owner.
My primary purpose today is to find myself a new dress for the party the Emperor is holding tonight for father. But beyond that, I always enjoy the opportunity to experience the vast array of goods sold in Rome, it has been to long since I have been able to do so. Lucilla continued, her warm smile still in place. And what of you and Pyris? Acquiring some supplies for your father?
[ QUOTE ]
For now I am just surveying your impressive wares. The elder appears to have a clear idea of what he requires, please assist him first, it could be some time before I make up my mind. She then looked over towards the old man with a warm smile before returning to examining the exotic items within the shop.
[/ QUOTE ]
A slight bow of the head, "Certe."* Seeing her closer, one notices that even ehr hands and face are covered, so that only her eyes are revealed, and even those lie within the shadows of the hood of the robe. Turning to the old man, she awaits his response.
[ QUOTE ]
In lightly accented Latin, the old man asked What language are you most comfortable in? I have a lengthy list, and I speak many languages. The Doctor smiled through the bushy beard. I dont even know the Latin word for some of the herbs and concoctions I hope you have.
[/ QUOTE ]
"Loque quamcumque linguam ut eligeres. Intelligam."** Her accent was somewhat thicker than his, but of an entirely different character.
[ QUOTE ]
You have wealthy customers entering, the Ancient Doctor said in the northern Germanic tongue. I will browse and shop as you serve them. His dialect was archaic, but still understandable.
[/ QUOTE ]
A nod of understanding, then she focuses her attention on the newcomers. Seeing the larger engage in conversation with the ladies, she remains in the background, taking note of what they wish to buy, so that she might be prepared to address their needs, while, at the same time, keeping an eye on the smaller of the two.
* Yes/Certainly
** Speak whichever language you may choose. I will understand.
Brutus glanced down at Velius, almost sneering. It was more apparent around others the grander height of the man, almost towering over everyone else. ((he's 6'6" not quite sure of others in the room)) His lip curled on the right as he sized the man up. In his mind, he laughed that he would be attempting to win Lucilla's favor. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Velius Seneca, and I hope you don't mind my intrusion."
Brutus began to focus more on Lucilla, ignoring the others and focusing on her. "Congradulations on your father's appointment. I do hope to you enjoy yourself tonight. As for me, my father requested that Pyris and I gather some simple supplies to restock before our materials arrive at our destination. You know how he is about hte particulars."
Brutus looked back to Pyris. He seemed to be managing himself with the list. Brutus smiled, realizing Pyris was starting to become literate. "Have you found anything fascinating on your opprotunity today?"
Pyris seemed to be wandering aimlessly. A quick lookover yielded no obvious woolens that would suit Master Lucius. He now just wandered lightly making it look like he was busy while Brutus spoke with Lucilla. He caught Berit looking over at him as he eyed the group once more with a longing face, and wuickly turned away and went back to examining the shop's wares.
Summer Heat
And I am pleased to meet you Brutus Marius, I have heard of your father. Velius replied, though obviously a bit intimidated by the much larger man. He remained silent as Brutus and Lucilla continued to talk. Berit gave a slight smirk at how well she had read the young Velius. Even once his father arranged the traditional betrothal for Velius, if he continued as he was, he would likely still have competition for his wifes attention.
Now that she was being essentially ignored, the young redhead moved away from the two men and her mistress, making her way over towards where Pyris was still looking over things as well as his list. Yes, your father is very detail minded from what I have seen. Lucilla replied to Brutus. I believe it gives my father yet another thing to like and respect about him.
When Brutus asked if she had found anything much to her liking, Lucilla just shrugged slightly. Nothing as yet, but then we have really only just arrived in the Campus Martius before coming into this shop. Realizing she still held the wood figuring in one hand, the raven haired woman knew she should at least mention it in passing. Though, Berit did purchase this from a street vendor along with a leather bracelet.
As Berit neared Pyris, she gave the quite young man a slight smile. Good afternoon Pyris, did you need some help with your shopping list? She asked, her eyes glancing towards the list in his hand before looking back at his face.
[ QUOTE ]
A nod of understanding, then she focuses her attention on the newcomers. Seeing the larger engage in conversation with the ladies, she remains in the background, taking note of what they wish to buy, so that she might be prepared to address their needs, while, at the same time, keeping an eye on the smaller of the two.
* Yes/Certainly
** Speak whichever language you may choose. I will understand.
[/ QUOTE ]
Really, the old man said, his sharp gray eyes twinkling. He switched to ancient Babylonian. What I am looking for is essence of the poppy, distilled hemlock, Monks hood, and very thin needles for acupuncture. He switched to Greek. My mistress has several maladies. I am trying different combinations to ease her pain. And then in Gaelic, When it is convenient for you, if the young men and women wish to go ahead. I am in no hurry. He spoke the final words just loud enough so the red haired woman would hear it. His accent was that of the Picts of the far north of Britannia. He switched to the Germanic tongue again. Did you keep up with all of that? he said with the impish tone of a much younger man.
She blinked at him in concertration. "Drusus..."
She glanced around slightly neverous and then back at him, a shyness in her eyes. " I am seeking some..aaa...." she began, but stopped looking lost in thought.
~" By the gods! I can never remember anything. What was the word again?"~ she thought aloud in her native tongue, giving Drusus a smypathetic smile.
"Ah! I am seeking help. I am finding the house of war slaves?" she replied, quriking her eyebrow, praying she was able to articulate herself.
She played nervously with a silver braclet around her wrist. It carried her clan symbol, a stag's head embossed on the trinity knot. She stared into Drusus' eyes, studying him almost.
Eyes show the reflection of one's soul, her grandmother's voice echoed in her mind.
"OH! Forgive me. I am Samen. Pleased to make your presence," she replied quickly as remeberance darted through her eyes.
She extended her hand out to clasp his in greeting.
[ QUOTE ]
She glanced around slightly neverous and then back at him, a shyness in her eyes. " I am seeking some..aaa...." she began, but stopped looking lost in thought.
~" By the gods! I can never remember anything. What was the word again?"~ she thought aloud in her native tongue, giving Drusus a sympathetic smile.
"Ah! I am seeking help. I am finding the house of war slaves?" she replied, quirking her eyebrow, praying she was able to articulate herself.
She played nervously with a silver bracelet around her wrist. It carried her clan symbol, a stag's head embossed on the trinity knot. She stared into Drusus' eyes, studying him almost.
"OH! Forgive me. I am Samen. Pleased to make your presence," she replied quickly as remembrance darted through her eyes.
She extended her hand out to clasp his in greeting.
[/ QUOTE ]
Drusus grinned at the young ladies difficulty with Latin. He didnt mean to make fun, it was just
cute. He took her hand and kissed it. Lovely to meet you Samen.
((Note: I have NO idea if that was tradition at that time but I am going with it for now.))
The house of war slaves; you must mean the gladiators! Hmm, what could a lovely lady like yourself want with that place? Then he thought about how the noble women liked to visit some of the gladiators. But this young woman was not some roman noblewoman.
It is dangerous there, many dishonest men work that area. It is not safe for you to go there. They will know that you are not from here and seek to delude you.
Just before Drusus let go of Samens hand he had one of his visions. His eyes went blank for a moment. He saw a large, powerful man with blond curly hair, locked in a cage. Drusus could feel that the cage was something that the man hated.
Whoa, sorry about that. Drusus rubbed his eyes and thought to himself; That must be the man she seeks in the gladiator pits. I wonder if he is her husband?
The precognitive flashes he had left him a little disoriented at times.
If you need help finding the gladiator pens I can aid you. But I suppose you have no more reason to trust me than anyone else. I ask nothing in return; only that you dont come to any harm.
Drusus was unsure why he felt he needed to help; he just did. Was it the vision or just the look in this womans eyes? Or maybe she had put fairy dust on him or something? He didnt know, but he did know that he could not send this foreign woman into that pit of vipers without some help.
"Shut up Mr. Burton, you are not brought upon this world to get it!" - Lo Pan
@MadGremlin
"The simple things as leather bracelets and woodcarvings are subtle pieces of artwork that is almost always overlooked by those with a common eye. Berit must have found a good craftsman to purchase such simple trinkets. Take Pyris for example." A hand gestured to Pyris and Berit walking over to him. "He has a talent for manipulating silver I would say is only comparable to the gods." He removed a ring from his finger, and handed it to Lucilla. "He made this for me when I became a legal citizen, and only using the basic forge skill he had been taught to work them. The work impressed my father so much he permitted him to become a full time apprentice to our silversmith. Its that very attention to detail that your father admires in mine that my father admires in Pyris."
Pyris was oblivious to the fact others were talking about him. He was more concerned with Berit's sudden proximity and her question to him. Taking a nervous step back he stared at the woman with bright green eyes filled with fright and embarrasment. His thoughts stumbled as he thought of how to respond to her question. It was a simple yes or no question, but he couldn't think of the answer. He looked down at the list. Nothing was readable suddenly. It felt as though all eyes were on him at this moment, and the sudden attention was causing him to falter. He hesitated looking up, in fear of ridicule of a poor slave not knowing how to read. However, Berit didn't seem like the type to encourage mocery in his previous encounters with the woman, though distanted they were. His eyebrows gathered as he expressed his confusion, looking back at Berit almost pleadingly. Pyris was almost shaking trying to explain his problem while hiding his embarrasment. His eyes met Berit's, and seemed to try to explain everything with subtly. A weak smile flashed across his face, hoping she could understand his expressions. He slowly extended the list with an apologetic look on his face.
Brutus' lips pressed thin and curled downward. "Shame he's not better with people." He glanced back to the old man as he began rambling strange tongues. He recognized the greek perfectly, but the others he failed to understand by far. He turned back to Lucilla and smiled. His eyes for once gave away his secret of being a very soft-hearted and gentle soul while he unintentionally tried to flash his charm upon her once again.
Summer Heat
[ QUOTE ]
He switched to the Germanic tongue again. Did you keep up with all of that? he said with the impish tone of a much younger man.
[/ QUOTE ]
Her eyes show a hint of amusement as she speaks a single word, "Ja."
Seeing that the nobles are still preoccupied, she unlocks an oaken chest and removes a few small bundles, then, reclosing and locking the chest, places them in front of the elderly man.
In a relaxed and conversational tone, perfectly masking the veiled accusation to the bystanders, she confronts the old man, "(In Germanic)These herbs are . . . unusual. What guarantee do I have that you will not . . . misuse them?"
[ QUOTE ]
In a relaxed and conversational tone, perfectly masking the veiled accusation to the bystanders, she confronts the old man, "(In Germanic)These herbs are . . . unusual. What guarantee do I have that you will not . . . misuse them?"
[/ QUOTE ]
The old man was impressed that the mysterious shopkeeper was able to keep up with his several languages. At some point, he would have to come back and try out a few more languages, maybe even the language of his childhood, but now was not the time.
The Ancient Doctor smiled gently. (in Germanic) The only guarantee I can give you is the word of an old healer. As a merchant, you have a good sense of people, or else your shop would fail. Trust your internal guide, and decide whether you think I will use these for ill.
Though Lucilla had remained focused on Brutus, she had heard the old man talk to the shopkeeper in a number of languages, though she had only understood the Greek and Gaelic, but had recognized the last as Germanic. When Brutus had held out the silver ring Pyris had made for him, Lucilla took it examining it closely as she listened to the large man speak very highly of his fathers slave. Like Berit, she suspected that Lucius Marius was Pyris father, she sometimes wondered if Brutus suspected as well. If he did, he appeared to not be bothered by the fact, having some obvious respect for Pyris abilities.
It is indeed extraordinary work. She commented after she had carefully studied the ring, offering it back Brutus. If he is capable of such work with only basic skills, I have to wonder if he will have any equal once he fully masters the craft.
When she saw Brutus look over to where Berit was speaking to Pyris, she was slightly surprised by the emotion and caring she saw in Brutus eyes. She offered the large man an understanding smile as she replied. Perhaps with time he will learn to not fear interaction with others as much. But if he spends too much time with Berit, she will either drag him from his seclusion somewhat forcefully or make him withdraw even further in fear. She can be very direct at times.
Over by the shy Pyris, the redheaded young woman Lucilla was just talking about took the list from Pyris hand. Do not feel embarrassed Pyris. She said quietly in Greek. It is rather rare for a slave such as ourselves to be able to read. I have been lucky to be educated alongside Lucilla for the most part. Now while Lucilla and Brutus talk and flirt, lets make sure we get what your master Lucius Marius requires. With that, she began to help identify the objects that were on the list, showing Pyris what was what as she did so.
Samen was surprised when Drusus kissed her hand. She was use to clasping wrists as the warriors did. She blushed slightly as he continued to hold her hand.
She paid apt attention as he spoke, focusing on each word. She found herself nodding at the words she knew.
"Gladiators..." she replied, trying the word out.
Almost sounds like warrior. I guess that would be the best place for Bel. I could not see him playing a house servent or even working the fields like the others I saw on my way here.
She cocked her head to one side, slipping her hair over that shoulder, with a look of confusion as he apologized for something.
"I would like help. I would be very apprecative if you would not care to show me where this Gladiator's place is," she replied, slightly flustered, ashamed at her inablity to be fluent in this language.
She sighed deeply and gave Drusus a heartwarming smile. " You are correct, but other than you, kind sir, I know no one. You can help me converse with others, yes? It is obvious my Latin is broken."
He accepted the ring back and returned it to his finger. "Perhaps she may break his shell. He's been this way since his mother died. I think he blames himself for the accident. Though, I would be most intrigued how. She died in that fire 6 years ago, do you remember? Happened in the forges, a great explosion. His mother saved him from the fire but sacrificed herself. It was the first time I saw my father mourn the loss of a slave." He watched the interaction between Berit and Pyris further, noting Pyris warming up to her quickly, but keeping to himself still. He pondered in his head if Berit was aware what she was doing. He smirked and leaned down to Lucilla for a whisper, "It would be most intriguing to see them interact in other situations."
Pyris looked at Berit with a confused face. He was not embarrased for not knowing how to read. In fact, he was quite proud at what he had learned. He smiled a tired and surrenduring smile, accepting her help to find the materials needed. Each time a new word came up, Pyris' eyes seemed to light up as the information was stored in his head. He nodded and seemed to open his mouth as to express understanding, but no sound was ever made. The more he interacted with the woman, the more it became apparent to those paying attention the conversation was only one sided audibly.
Summer Heat
[ QUOTE ]
She sighed deeply and gave Drusus a heartwarming smile. " You are correct, but other than you, kind sir, I know no one. You can help me converse with others, yes? It is obvious my Latin is broken."
[/ QUOTE ]
There was that smile again. Drusus wondered why he was such a sucker for it. He had cautiously resisted the advances of several noble women when he was a slave; that was a dangerous game to play. But this young lady was melting him with a smile. Maybe it was the 'damsel in distress' thing.
Your Latin is not broken, just a little rough around the edges. Im sorry I dont speak any northern languages, just a bit of Greek. Where are you from exactly?
He tried to speak a little more slowly so she could understand.
The Amphitheatrum Caesareum (coliseum) is not far from here.
((OOC: If the maps I found online are correct))
Do you wish to go there right away? If you tell me what you seek there I can try to explain it to the guards and trainers.
Drusus was not all that familiar with the details or protocol for seeing the gladiators and he shuddered at how close he had been to being literally thrown to the lions when he was put into slavery.
"Shut up Mr. Burton, you are not brought upon this world to get it!" - Lo Pan
@MadGremlin
Samen beamed happily, her eyes sparkling. "OH! You are so very kind, Drusus!!! May the Gods bless you for eternity," she replied, her voice lilting joyous.
She knew no other way to show her apprecitaion then bless him. She felt her connection to Cerridiwen flare and knew that the goddess had answered her praise. Samen pushed a piece of her faith out and it spiritually annointed Drusus, leaving a quickly fading, mystical rune on his forehead that only she could see.
She nodded at him, content knowing that he was a genuine soul.
~" Eiries de Ereland'~ she replied, quickly, answering his question. She blushed again and bowed her head sheepishly.
"Forgive me. Habits die rough. I am from the island of Ere', far to the northwest," she replied softly.
"I am seeking my...my..." she began to mummer as she searched for the word.
She glanced up at Drusus and gave him a timid smile. She hated stumbling over her words and feeling so lost in this land. Back home, she was a proud priestess, armed with her magicks and her deadly ability with a bow. She had the respect of her people, but here she felt like a small child again. Meek and lost. Fear sat cold in her stomach.
"I'm seeking my...heart's blood...uuummm...that's not right...my...kinsman," she tried again, unease showing in her eyes.
"His name is Bel, if that may help. Once again, I know not how to thank you for your kindness and will to assist me," she replied, staring at him.
She blushed brightly and casted her glance downward, kicking nervously at the street with her boot.
Lucius Marius looked outside to see what time it was. His son and slave seemed to be taking longer than needed. Either there was a problem, which was not entirely impossible given the nature of Pyris' past, or which was more likely, they were dawdling and not focusing on their task. He sat at his bench studying the newest collection of jewelry made by his goldsmith and silversmilth. He set the good pieces to one side and the bad pieces to another so they could be melted down and reused. The day slowly became late.
Summer Heat
Drusus felt some sort of comforting warmth wash over him. He did not know what it was but it made him feel very nice.
Eiries de Ereland He tried to copy what she had originally called her homeland, probably massacring the pronunciation in the process. His over-active imagination had him envisioning all of those things of legend that he had heard about the place. Sounds like a nice place.
Drusus looked at the sky; the sun was well past its zenith but he still figured he had enough time to run this errand to the amphitheatre with Samen.
Shall we go then? It is this way. We will go and find your kinsman Bel.
As they walked Drusus pointed out some of the more famous landmarks of the great city to Samen.
"Shut up Mr. Burton, you are not brought upon this world to get it!" - Lo Pan
@MadGremlin
Lucilla nodded sadly at the mention of the fire six years ago. She had heard about the incident, though she had been in Rome, her father serving on the Senate at the time. I remember hearing of that, but I dont think I ever knew that his mother was killed in the fire. Brutus comment that his father had mourned the slave woman was somewhat telling to Lucilla, but she didnt make any mention of it.
When Brutus leaned in and whispered about seeing Berit and Pyris interact in other situations, she glanced up at him briefly, wondering if he meant what she though he might be implying. If it was, it was nothing Lucilla would have a hand in arranging, Berit in fact had much more freedom that most slaves enjoyed. It might. Was all she said before she looked back at Brutus, smiling warmly once more. But the day is growing late, and I still do not have a dress for tonight, and likely your father is expecting you and Pyris to return soon. I am sure we will see each other soon. With that, she made her way over towards the shopkeeper.
I am afraid I must be going today, but I will most assuredly return tomorrow to make some purchases. You have such a selection of wonderful items, there is much that has my interest.
Berit noticed that Lucilla seemed ready to go, her and Pyris had managed to go over most of what was on the list. Looking over at Pyris, she gave him a slight smile as she handed his list back. I am sorry, but it seems it is time for us to go. There are only a few more items, I am sure you can likely figure them our, or Brutus can assist you. When Pyris took back the list, the redheaded young woman made her way back towards Lucilla as the raven haired woman started towards the exit.
Velius nodded to Brutus as he started to leave as well. It was good to meet you Brutus Marius. He then hurried slightly to catch up with Lucilla and Berit.
The cow herder finally stood, beginning to pack his things back into his old barrow. In the fading light, he began pushing the wooden cart down the emptying street.
As the afternoon began to grow late, the crowds in the shopping areas of the city began to thin out. Curius Fronto rather preferred not having to fight through thick crowds as he went about his duties. The quartermaster of legion XXI Rapax, he had numerous duties to ensure the legion had all the supplies it required. Word had just arrived from the legatus that they were being sent to Judaea and the legion was to move closer to Ostia to facilitate boarding ships in the next week.
Thus Curius was in Rome to get the legions supplies to their new camp. He also had found out that in addition to the over five thousand members of XXI Rapax, he was also responsible for supplying over three thousand auxiliaries that were being assigned to the legion. The increased number of men meant almost double the work for him, not to mention the need for more supply personnel.
Dressed in a green tunic and leather armor, Curius turned down a street when he spotted something that made him stop. Up ahead was a young man pushing a cart down the street and hanging from the cart were several leather goods. Even from where he was, Curius could tell they were finely made, stepping up to the man, he called out. Hold citizen. Did you craft these leather goods?
Not really waiting for an answer, the quartermaster examined some of them a bit more closely, confirming that they were as well made as he had believed. I could use someone so skilled in leatherworking. Have you never considered working for the legions? The pay is good, your meals provided and you could continue selling such trinkets on the side if you wish.
Pyris ((pronounced PIR-us or just think Paris)) sat in the field, basking in the sunlight of a warm day. It was the first true break he had seen in ages, and the youth hated the travel his master's role forced upon him. For all his life he had served his master, Lucius Marius, and little did he know his owner was also his father. Of course, his father denied it, and never recognized the ******* son of a Spartan slave as his flesh and blood. Nonetheless, his mother gave him a Greek name hoping that he would. Pyris' mother died when he was still a child, leaving his father to raise him fully as a slave. Pyris was born almost two decades ago on this day, and no one truly cared to remember.
"Boy! stop sleeping in the fields! You have work to do!" Lucius called out to him. Pyris was instantly on his feet. Pyris rushed to the entryway to answer his master's call. "I'm sending you and Brutus the the market to gather some supplies. I expect a full supply when you return, and make sure you don't dawdle."
Lucius Marius lived in Rome prior to his patronage of Antonius Justus. While in Rome, he married a young woman by the name of Junia. Brutus was a few years older than Pyris, but they were still the same age and had grown up together. Pyris had shown interest and great skill managing the forges and thus his placement as an apprentice was logical. Lucius Marius was a smith by all definitions, having a small company that held someone to focus on unique metals. He was also one of the prized clients of Antonius Justus. The supplies, however, were simple cloths, food, and gems. Outside, Brutus stood waiting for Pyris to get ready.
"Care to race me Pyris?" Brutus said as Pyris walked up to him. Brutus stood almost a whole head taller, and much larger than the youthful Pyris. Brutus always beat the kid, having a few years not to mention rigorous athletic training. Pyris looked up at the man, gazing sheepishly into his eyes. The look said please no, but the smile said yes. Brutus merely laughed. "You're weak, that's why I beat you. Father has you busy with the forge so much you can't train with me in the gymnasium. Come on, I'll slow up."
Brutus' offer was all to inticing to Pyris. A flash of fire coarsed through his eyes and he nodded, determined to win this time. Brutus laughed again. "Ready! GO!" and the two men were off racing to the bottom of the hill and towards the Campus Martius.
Brutus stood at the entrance watching the bustle of people pass by, turning around only when he heard running footseps behind him start to slow down. "I even walked the last half and it still took you this long?"
Pyris leaned forward to catch his breath. At Brutus' taunt, he loked up with glaring eyes facing betrayal. Brutus walked towards the young man and helped him forward. The two moved into the streets, finally arriving to the exotic store. "Pyris, do you remember this store from the last time?" Pyris shook his head no, then shrugging not knowing what it was. The two entered on a whim of curiosity not sure what they would find inside.
((OOC: oh yea. they're in normal citizen wear, white tunic to the knees, sandals, etc.))
Summer Heat