Play@YSDC

Cleopatra's Palace- Rome, Italia
Late Afternoon- March 14, 44 BC

Caelia Alba, Artemis Gaius Sylvius, and Spurius Papirius Valens returned to the city and made their way back to Cleopatra's palace, where the guards at the gate recognized and admitted them. Adelphus and Nefertiri met them in the antechamber. "Welcome back," said the handmaiden. "What have you to report?"

Caelia takes a deep breath, "Well, not as much as I'd hoped so far. But we have found friends. Senator Germanicus is forewarned and he is to dine with Caesar tonight; he will try to warn Caesar. Unfortunately the seer, Septimus, had a heart attack and nearly died." Caelia looks a little uncomfortable as she remembers,

"He is resting at Germanicus' villa. And we are heading to the residence of Scaevola, whom I expect you know. I have a feeling he may know something about this business so we hope to find out something from him - without letting on what we know. With his powerful connections, his political stance and his connections with Egypt he could be involved with the plot or know somebody who is. It's just going to be difficult to get him to talk.

"I know Septimus well," said Adelphus. "We have conferred on several occasions. He did tell me about a vision he had of what is to come. I am glad he is still alive."

"It is good that Germanicus is taking action," said Nefertiri. "Scaevola has visited this palace before to pay his respects to Her Majesty. His fondness for Egypt is well known, and he also is loyal to Rome. He may yet be part of the plot, and of the Brotherhood, however. Perhaps in his mind he thinks slaying Caesar would benefit Rome. Be careful when you go to his villa. If he is indeed one of the plotters, it would be very bad if he were to become suspicious."

"We are all too aware of that. I think we'll play it on the safe side so not to jeopardise the little we already know. If there is nothing else, we'd better be on our way." Caelia bows and if no one has anything else to add, she leaves the antechamber with Artemis and Spurius.

"May the blessings of the gods go with you," said Nefertiri. "If you learn anything of interest, you can pass word to us."

OOC,I'll wait a little to see if [b]Artemis[/b] has anything to say or do.

Artemis listened and as Caelia took her leave, he cleared his throat.

"Lady Nefertiri," He started with a significant amount of hesitancy in his voice. "I do not know much about this Senator Scaevola, but is there anyone in his household that may be called upon if we do find trouble?"

OOC:   Sorry was a bit out of pocket these past few days.

"Many of his servants are Egyptian," said Nefertiri, "but they are fiercely loyal to him. I do not know anything about them. None of his family members live there with him. His wife died in childbirth a long time ago, and he has not remarried. His children are all grown and no longer live in his house. He has three daughters who have all married into other families to form political alliances, and he has two sons. The elder is a provincial governor, and the younger is an officer in the legions. As far as I know they would be loyal to their father, but I have never met them."

"Thank you, I find that information is always valuable, or at least it kept me alive during my earlier days." Artemis smiled and then nodded at Lady Caelia and Spurius. "I think good lady, we need to be off then and along the way we can acquire our kits and such to put on once we are out of Rome proper."

"You are most welcome," said Nefertiri to Artemis. "Indeed, information is the most valuable commodity of all. Keep our friend safe."

Caelia bowed to Nefertiri and led the way out of the palace. Once out in the street she says, "We should stop by your barracks to collect anything you might need, and then go to my residence; from there it is not far to Scaevola's."

ooc,Caelia needs to change into something less dusty and spittle-fied. Also she'd like to pick up her travel bag which contains some first aid - herbs, bandages, small medical tools.

The three made their way through the city, collecting what they needed in their various residences and then passing out of the Ostia gate as the sun sank low in the sky. The red orb was barely above the horizon by the time they arrived at Scaevola's lavish estate. Much like Cleopatra's palace, it was guarded by bare-chested Egyptian men with sickle-headed swords that Caelia knew were called khopesh. They stood on either side of the gate, arms crossed over their chests, their blades strapped to their backs. While it was obvious that Scaevola was a wealthy man - he would have to be to afford the requirements to be a Senator - the luxury here paled in comparison to what they had just seen during their visit to the Queen of Egypt.

OOC,Yes, that's fine. You can all pick up whatever you need on the way.

As they approached the residence, they could see the moonlight reflecting off the guards' polished chests. "Those are khopesh warriors," Caelia whispered. "They are very fierce and determined in battle. They are loyal to their master and even more so to Egypt. Be wary of their khopesh blades; they can lop a lion's head off with one sweep.
Artemis, would you rather be my guest or retinue? As retinue you can speak with the servants, as my guest you can dine with us and try to fathom Scaevola for yourself."

ooc,Shall I assume Spurius will act as my guard or similar?

Artemis quickly ran up the stairs into the sleeping area and opened the chest that stored his other possessions. He looked over the armor and then down at his toga. He wasn't sure what made the most sense to wear. Armor could be seen as being hostile, the tunic more of a friendly social visit. He rushed down the stairs and as he approached Caelia she asked,

"Artemis, would you rather be my guest or retinue? As retinue you can speak with the servants, as my guest you can dine with us and try to fathom Scaevola for yourself."

He smiled. "Kind lady, I think if I appear in a tunic I would be seen as you said as a guest, maybe a "distant cousin" now retired from the Camps." But, if I were to appear in armor it would mean a time with the servants and they may be the ones we need information. I suspect no one at the Senator's villa would be surprised, if suddenly the country cousin wanders into the culina offering to help."

He smiled at Caelia and turned to Spurius, "It seems that you good friend get to go about the servants and such, hopefully they will treat you well but not too well." He winked and grinned at his fellow soldier.

Spurius smiled back. "From what I have seen of Egyptian women so far, I would not mind," he said, "though none of them can match our lady for beauty, of course."

OOC,Yes, [b]Spurius[/b] can act as your guard. He will generally do as you wish until he has a player. [b]Artemis[/b] borrowed a toga, not a tunic.

Caelia smiles, "You are very chivalrous, Spurius. It's agreed then, Spurius can loiter in the servant's quarters and Artemis can join me at the table but might wander off as he's from out of town and has rather suburban manners." She grins, and leads the way to the gate.

"Caelia Alba to see Senator Scaevola, and this is..." She allows Artemis to give his full name as she doesn't actually know it.

"Artemis Gaius Sylvius, from Treveri, " the veteran smiled and awaited their being invited inside.

"Spurius Papirius Valens," said Spurius. "The two of us are auxiliary cavalrymen."

"You are expected, my lady," said one of the guards. A runner was sent back to the house as the guards opened the gate. "Please, enter and be welcome, you and your escorts."

The three of them proceeded into the villa's grounds. Standing before the main house were two rows of Egyptian-style statues of men with the heads of various animals: crocodiles, jackals, lions, hyenas, and more, all of them standing some seven feet tall. At the end of the colonnade stood a twenty foot tall replica of the Sphinx. It differed from the original not only in size, but also in the fact that it had a nose. Beyond it stood the house itself, a pair of open double doors leading into the vestibulum.

"After you, good lady," Artemis moved to the side of the vestibule to let Celia enter first them followed in her wake.

Caelia looks at the statues as she walks up the path and then stops at the sphinx and looks at it closely. "I hope this is the Egyptian variety and not the treacherous Greek type. Well, here goes; into the lion's den. Shall we have a code word? If we are in imminent danger and must leave at once; let it be 'Ariadne'." And with that, she leads the way through the double doors.

Artemis nodded, "Ariadine, will work, Lady. Let us go visit Egypt restyled and hope for a way to save the Queen's friend."

He followed behind Caelia, past the sphinx, and into the Senator's estate.

The Sphinx was indeed in the Egyptian style.

Caelia entered the main house, followed closely by Artemis and Spurius. A short corridor led to the open-air atrium, where Senator Scaevola awaited, standing in front of a bubbling fountain and flanked by Egyptian servants wearing Egyptian garb. A couple more guards stood here as well. Several doors and corridors led to other parts of the villa. "Lady Caelia, welcome!" called Scaevola, bowing deeply. He clapped his hands. "Wine and food for our guests!" The servants bustled around, carrying trays. One young Egyptian woman bore a tray with goblets of wine, and another had a tray piled high with dates, olives, grapes, and other fruit.

Artemis bowed slightly and saluted the Senator by bringing his right hand closed in a fist to his chest. He looked about and found his gaze following the servants wearing the thin shimmering linen of the Egyptian markets. When the woman brought in the tray with all of the food, he felt his stomach's needs overcome any other interests he might have been harboring in his mind. He smiled at the Senator and looked at Lady Caelia.

Caelia smiles widely and and walks towards Scaevola, holding out her hands for him to take. "Senator! Thank you for such a warm welcome; this all looks so lovely! I do hope you don't mind me bringing along a distant cousin and his friend; this is Artemis Gaius Sylvius, and Spurius Papirius Valens." Caelia turns on her best Roman high society self, hoping to impress the senator.

Scaevola smiled, taking Caelia's hands in his and squeezing them gently. "Your cousin and his friend are welcome in my house as well," he said. "It was wise of you to bring an escort. The roads near Rome are not as troubled as they were during the war, but one can never be too careful."

"Senator," Artemis bowed his head, "your kindness is reflective of the best of the Republic's leaders, thank you for the welcome. The streets were crowded with merry makers celebrating the festivities."

"Thank you," said Scaevola, bowing slightly. "It is good that the people of Rome are enjoying the holiday. Rome has endured so much, it is nice that there is some good fortune."

"I have to believe that the best of Rome is ahead of us, Senator." Artemis responded with a smile. "For if this retired auxillaria standard bearer could see the palace of a Queen and the villa of a Senator in the same day, well then all things are possible."

"Yes! Please show us around your lovely home, I'm dying to see your collection too." Caelia says excitedly.

"You are correct," said Scaevola. "Rome's best days are indeed ahead! The Republic shall endure forever if I have any say in the matter." He rose to his feet. "I'd be glad to show you around my collection of Egyptian art and artifacts. I'm sure you noticed the Sphinx out front. That piece is the pride of my collection."

"Yes, we did notice that as we came onto the villa's grounds," Artemis nodded. "Rather unusual to see here in Rome, where were you able to find something such as that?"

"I did not," said Scaevola with a grin. "I had craftsmen brought in from Egypt to create a replica of the Sphinx for me. It was expensive, but one cannot be a Senator without being wealthy."

"It is a true marvel, Senator, having never served anywhere but in the Treveri and some of those associated areas, I believe the treasures of Egypt have to be beyond my ability to imagine if your Sphinx is any guide." Artemis genuinely smiled as he thought of Egypt through the eyes of his earlier encounters. "If I could be so bold, what started your interest with Egypt?"

"I first journeyed to Egypt years ago," said Scaevola. "It was in the days of the Triumvirate, and I was sent there to negotiate grain shipments. I fell in love with Egypt at first sight. I had read up on it before I traveled there, but nothing prepared me for the reality."

"All I know of it is what a fellow veteran shared, too hot even in the shade, sand, sand, and more sand," Artemis laughed as he recalled the stories he had heard from Augex years ago while sitting about a fire on campaign. "I just cannot imagine how different it must be to the Republic and Rome."

As they walk along the pathways past the impressive statues, Caelia listens politely to the men but looks carefully for anything in the collection that is particularly unusual for Scaevola to possess; anything that might point to an association with the darker arts side Egypt.

Rolls,Spot hidden (35): 33%, Egypt (21): 07%

"It can get quite hot in the desert, it's true," Scaevola said to Artemis, "but you'd be surprised just how cold it can get there at night. And while the desert is barren, the flood plains on the banks of the Nile have the most fertile soil. Egypt prospers even when the rest of the world starves. Rome imports much grain from Egypt."

The group walked into the tablinum, just off of the atrium, where Scaevola had his study. Shelves were lined with papyrus scrolls, a few of which were also on a mahogany writing desk. There were also a few busts and statuettes on the shelves and on small display tables. Some of them continued the chimera theme of humanoids with animal heads, and others were busts of Pharaohs long dead. His imago, wax masks of his ancestors, also hung on the walls. A few luxurious chairs were present, and he motioned for his guests to take seats.

Caelia Alba,Humanoid figures with the heads of various animals were common in Egyptian art and mythology. Several of their gods took this form, and she recognized Thoth, the ibis-headed god of wisdom, and Anubis, the jackal-headed god of the underworld. While Anubis did signify death, he did not have the negative connotations that similar deities did in other cultures. He was a protector of burial places and also a guide to souls in the underworld, where he weighed them and judged whether or not they were worthy. [b]Caelia[/b] also recognized two of the busts as depicting Akhenaten, who had originally been known as Amenhotep IV, and his queen Nefertiti. Please also roll Occult and History.

Caelia takes a closer look at the busts, "These are very beautiful, Scaevola, and very old; where did you find them?"

rolls,occult (15%) roll: 05. History (20%) roll:69

Artemis took a closer look at the two Egyptian busts after he heard Caelia's acclaim for them. The details and the craftsmanship were impressive to be sure. The colors vibrant and lifelike. "If you could excuse my ignorance, who are they? Or, who where they?"

"Thank you, my lady," said Scaevola. "These are the Pharaoh Akhenaten and his wife Queen Nefertiti. They were sculpted by the famed sculptor Thutmose. I found them during a visit to Egypt and purchased them at great price. Akhenaten was best known for introducing the belief in a single god to the exclusion of all others. After his death, the Egyptians attempted to erase all references to him from history. As you can see, they were not entirely successful."

Caelia Alba,[b]Caelia[/b] felt there was something odd about the idol of Thoth. While he was not the head of the Egyptian pantheon, [b]Scaevola[/b] had given him the most prominent place. In addition to being the god of wisdom and magic, Thoth was originally the god of the moon and was said to have power over time. He was regarded as the scribe of the gods (and also the scribe of the underworld) and advisor to Ra, the sun god. The Greeks equated Thoth with the god Hermes, which was Mercury in the Roman pantheon. Interestingly, the name of the sculptor of the busts, [b]Thutmose[/b], meant "son of Thoth."

Artemis looked back at the two sculptures and then back at the Senator. "The varied faiths across the Republic never cease to bewilder me. Yet, in the end all reflect the challenges of the Light to overcome the potential of destruction by the Dark."

"And Egypt has the biggest plethora of them all. May I ask why you have placed Thoth above all the others here? He is akin to our Mercury who is certainly not lord of the Gods, but merely a messenger."

"Thoth is similar in many ways to Mercury," said Scaevola, "but he is more than a mere messenger, which is more Hermanubis's job. He is scribe to the gods, and he has many other roles as well. He maintains the balance, he is the inventor of writing, he created himself, and he is the master of laws and oratory - very fitting, considering I am a Senator. He is the fount of science, philosophy, wisdom, and the divine. This is why I have given him pride of place."

Caelia Alba,[b]Caelia[/b] already knew everything that [b]Scaevola[/b] mentioned, and she recalled further details that he hadn't. Thoth was also a god of magic and said to be the originator of it. She also knew of a religious cult in Egypt dedicated to Thoth, centered around the temple to Thoth in Khmun, which the Greeks called Hermopolis Magna after Hermes. Both Thoth and Anubis were often conflated with Hermes/Mercury.

Artemis nodded at the explanation and the references. To him, there were the old gods of his youth with the Treveri and then there was the god of Light in his eternal struggle with the dark.

"And is he not also the God of magic?" Caelia asks innocently, she knows that Thoth is the god of magic and surely Scaevola knows this too but would he admit it. She casts a pointed glance at Artemis to make sure he is listening.

"Indeed he is," agreed Scaevola with a nod. "Your knowledge of Thoth is excellent. Have you ever visited the temple to Thoth at Khmun?"

OOC,Everyone may roll Insight.

Spurius wasn't sure what to make of the conversation.

OOC,[b]Spurius[/b]'s Insight roll (5% base skill) speaking to [b]Scaevola[/b]: [dice]0[/dice]

"I'm afraid my travels didn't take me that far. Tell me about it- what was it like? You have certainly been lucky to have delved into the deepest parts of Egypt. It must help having the finances for such exploration. Do you know any other people who have explored Egypt as much?" Caelia takes a sip of wine and looks carefully into the shadows.

Spot hidden,roll:89

"No Senator, this soldier never went across the Mare," Artemis added in response to the Senator's question to Lady Caelia and nodded in agreement with Caelia's request.

"I don't know of any other Romans who have explored so deep into Egypt," replied Scaevola, "but doubtless their are Egyptians who know their own country better than I do. The Temple to Thoth is a wondrous and beautiful place. My meager collection pales in comparison to the astounding treasures there. It was ancient when Rome was new built. I had the pleasure to visit it during my journeys. The priests of Thoth are very wise, and I learned much from them."

"Journeys? So did you visit there often Senator? I would think that the travel would have taken you far from Rome for too long?" Artemis spoke with some surprise for the idea of traveling repeatedly across the Mare was of such a risk, he had never met someone who had done it often before.

"I've been to Egypt a several times on business for the Republic over the decades," said the Senator, "but I've only been to the Temple to Thoth in Khmun twice. I've had a couple of long stays in Egypt as a result of that business, during which I had time to travel and explore the land."

Mr. Handy wrote:"I've been to Egypt a several times on business for the Republic over the decades," said the Senator, "but I've only been to the Temple to Thoth in Khmun twice. I've had a couple of long stays in Egypt as a result of that business, during which I had time to travel and explore the land."

"Then it must be safer to travel there than I thought. ALso safer to travel about too. May I ask what this temple was like and the country about it? Artemis' geniune interest was evident in his tone as he looked about at the statues and artifacts.

"I never said it was safe," said Scaevola, "but I have no fear of danger. Travel across the Mare Nostrum, though not without its hazards, has become routine. It takes about a week for a ship to sail from Ostia to Alexandria. Travel into Egypt's interior is more perilous, but I was not unescorted, nor was I without my own ability to protect myself. Khmun, which the Greeks call Hermopolis, rests almost exactly on the border between Upper and Lower Egypt, not far from the east bank of the Nile. The city itself is luxurious and majestic, rivaled only by Thebes for its beauty and wealth. It is close enough to the river that the land is fertile and verdant, though the desert is not far away. The Ptolemies built many great structures there, but the Temple to Thoth predates and excels over them all. It is constructed of great stones, and its magnificent portico is flanked by two rows of six pillars each. The pillars are connected to each other at their centers by architraves of five stones each. The two columns on either side of the entrance are the widest of all, with a huge stone over the tops of both of them. They are painted in yellow, red, and blue stripes. The portico also has excellent sculptures of Thoth himself, as well as of the ibis and the ape.

"It sounds like something one would find in their dreams," Artemis said in fascination. "I have to ask then was the draw to the Temple of Thoth?"

"I have to ask then, what was the draw to the Temple of Thoth?"

"I had heard tales of the wonders of the temple," said Scaevola, "and of the great wisdom of the priests of Thoth there. I simply had to go and see for myself. Who wouldn't want to make the journey? Ah, but where are my manners? I've had a meal prepared for us. Would you care to feast?"

"Yes of course. Thank you for showing us around." Caelia thoughtfully follows Scaevola to the dining area; It all seems above board but... she wishes she knew more about the Thoth religion as Scaevola seems particularly enamored by it.

"Your offer is truly generous, Senator, and feasting would be very much appreciated." Artemis followed along with Spurius. "Senator, I feel the fool, for I have to say I know nothing about the religions of Egypt and so know nothing about Thoth. Could you give a simple soldier some guidance on that which seems to be a great draw to you and your house?"

"It is wisdom above all that I have sought," said Scaevola, leading the way back to the atrium and then down a short hall to the peristylium, an open-air garden lined with columns, "and wisdom I have found with Thoth. The priests of Thoth have knowledge that few men possess, but they do not share it lightly. One must be initiated to learn their secrets."

Artemis followed and looked about the various parts of the Senator's villa. "So it is one of the many secret religions and societies of the Republic.

"It is like the mystery religions in some ways, yes," said Scaevola, leading them into the triclinium, where a sumptuous banquet awaited. Egyptian servants stood ready with trays containing wine and various foodstuffs. "Please, help yourselves. The main course will be in shortly."

Artemis wandered over to one of the servants, took one of the glass tumblers of wine and tasted some of the food stuffs. He was rewarded with tastes that surpassed anything he could have expected.

Caelia nibbles delicately on an otter's nose. "Knowledge is indeed the most wonderous thing; I feel I'll never know all that medicine has to offer in my lifetime. Which saddens me. What does the initiation involve - or is it too secret for you to say?"

Artemis enjoyed the luxory of the room, the food, and the decorations. His eyes wandered about like a child seeing the world anew. There was a twinkle in his brownish amber eyes that reflected outward. His eyes took in everything, architecture, decorations, furnishings, and the exotic look of the Egyptian servants that wandered about with offerings of food and drink. Even Spurius seemed to be enjoying himsef in the room. When Caelia asked about the initiation ceremony, he found his attention coming back into focus on their purpose for being there.

"Ah, but there is knowledge and then there is wisdom," said Scaevola, pausing to wash down his food with some wine. "Wisdom teaches us how to use the knowledge we accumulate. Any fool can know things, but the wise know what to do with those things. I too lament that I will never know everything. There simply is not enough time for any mortal to learn it all. But, as Socrates said, wonder is the beginning of wisdom, and I can see that you too possess it. The mysteries of Thoth are not for the uninitiated, and the initiation itself is the first of those mysteries. I cannot tell you of it - but I can show you. As an adept in the mysteries of Thoth, I can administer the initiation rites if you wish. You are certainly worthy, dear lady."

"So Thoth has its mystery, but isn't the Sphynx the one who guards mysteries and secrets?" Artemis asked confused and uncertain as to what was going on about him. His pronunciaton of Thoth was thick and clipped.

"The Sphinx does indeed guard mysteries," said Scaevola, "which is why I have one guarding my home. The Sphinx guards Thoth's secrets on his behalf."

"Would they also protect the Pharaoh or the Egyptian nobility? Surely, Rome would benefit from a strong protector such as what the Sphinx appears to be" Artemis stretched on that, but felt that there was a need to try to determine the role the Senator played locally.

"Yes, the Sphinx is also the protector of Egypt, of the Pharaoh, and of her family," said Scaevola. "Rome does benefit indirectly from her friendship with Egypt already, and further benefits would accrue from a closer relationship."

"Yes, I do wonder what Caesar has in mind in that regard. He has a lot of power already; I hope he uses it wisely in the years to come. He could do with a sphinx of his own to guide him." Caelia considers the offer of initiation - surely that would be one step too many for their cause!

"Caesar has too much power for any one man to wield," said Scaevola. "Dictators are to be chosen for terms not exceeding six months, and only for the duration of the war. With the war ended, there is no legal justification for him remaining in that position."

"But, surely there are benefits for Rome from him leading, that has to have value too?" Artemis asked with obvious sincerity.

"It's true; Caesar has a lot of experience going for him and who else has his capabilities at the present time? I can't think of anyone." Caelia sips her wine.

"Us soldiers, young and old, remember him as the man who not only lead us into battle against the enemies of Rome, but more importantly, brought us home afterwards," Artemis added.

"Many people feel that way about Caesar," said Scaevola, taking a sip of wine himself. "It is one reason he is so popular. However, the Republic was never designed to be ruled by one man. We had enough of that when we were ruled by kings, and that must never be allowed to happen again. Power is a poison. When it is concentrated in one place, it has a corrupting effect. Even someone who started out noble, with the best of intentions, can be consumed by power when exposed to too much of it. It must be diluted. That is why the Republic is supposed to have two consuls who rule Rome, each elected to terms of one year. Caesar himself Is one of the consuls, and Marcus Antonius is the other. That is al well and good. But there is no need of a dictator at the present time, especially one who remains so for the rest of his life."

"Well then couldn't the Senate just reaffirm and define the role of the consuls?" Seems like a fairly simple way to move on for the betterment of Rome?" Artemis took another bite of a delicious meat that he was offered. After swallowing the delicious morsel, "banishing Caesar would not be a wise move from this old soldier's perspective. Too many of us owe him too much to see that happen."

"Nobody said anything about banishing Caesar," said Scaevola, "but you're right, it would be most unwise. He would just return to Rome at the head of an army loyal to him - again. I have no issue with Caesar being one of the two consuls. My problem is that he has the powers of a dictator in perpetua. In an emergency situation, when speedy decisions are needed, the Senate can appoint a dictator to serve for six months at a time. But when the emergency ends, the dictator needs to step down. The Senate could reaffirm the role of the consuls and command him to step down from his dictatorship, but it will not. It is too enamored of Caesar, and it has granted him these powers indefinitely over my objections and those of other Senators. I am not as skilled an orator as Cicero - who has also argued against the Senate's action - but I made a strong case. Unfortunately, the Senate refuses to do what is required."

OOC,Everyone may roll Civics.

[spoiler-button]Rolling civics [dice]0[/dice] [/spoiler-button]

Caelia raises an artful eyebrow;

Civics,(25%) roll: 19

"I suppose, according to tradition, you are correct; but the senate put him there and it's they who decree the law. There must be a few unhappy people though; those who want Caesar removed from office, and I can appreciate the uneducated being worried about his close ties with Egypt. He could be treading a rather dangerous path." Caelia takes a sip of wine whilst watching Scaevola's face.

"Ah, you might indeed say that," replied Scaevola. "It is good that he is friendly with Egypt, but of course there must be limits. Queen Cleopatra should be an ally, but there are some who are concerned about her being more than that." His face was unreadable.

OOC,You've all already rolled Insight, and all of the rolls failed.

"The Queen, truly beautiful, and the palace was remarkable for this old soldier to see," Artemis' voice trailed off in his effort to recall the events of earlier in the day. "But, she surely could not hold more power than the Senate of Rome?"

Scaevola chuckled. "If you think that, you do not know the power of a beautiful woman," he said. "Why, just look at the beautiful Lady Caelia. Would you not do anything for her? Queen Cleopatra is likewise beautiful, and she is very skilled at getting men to do what she wants. She is also extremely intelligent, or she would not have survived to become Queen. Men think they are in charge, but it is women who wield true power."

"But, Senator, what power could a foreign queen wield over the victor of battles such as Caesar? Plus, the Senate holds the power in Rome, does it not? So why would there be any worry about such as the Queen?" Artemis asked in puzzled response to the Senator's argument.

Caelia blushes at the praise. "You cannot compare me to the greatest queen that ever lived, Senator!

She did have his only son, that would count for something. And I'm sure it was her idea to put all these new statues up; they are very Egyptian in style. Maybe they plan to become King and Queen over all of the Roman and Egyptian empires; and as she is still very young, she'd be supreme ruler once Caesar died. She'd be mad of course; I would opt for a simpler life myself." Caelia sighs.

"I suppose it will be interesting at the next games to see what the populace think of it all when Caesar starts the proceedings; they always tend to show their true feelings then. Will you be going, Senator?"

She wonders how Spurius is getting on in the servants' quarters.

"Indeed I will," said Scaevola. "I would not miss them. You have wisely identified the concern about Caesar and Cleopatra, and their son. Most people do not see this danger, and Caesar remains very popular. The Senate has given him all the power he needs, and all Cleopatra needs to do is exercise the power she has over him."

Caelia looks at Artemis meaningfully, "It is all very complicated isn't it." An owl hoots in the deepening dusk and Caelia is startled. "Oh, what time is it?" she asks Scaevola.

"It is difficult to tell time at night," replied Scaevola. "It feels like it's been an hour or two since sunset. Don't feel you need to leave, however. The night is still young. You are right, Roman politics are extremely complex. You don't know the half of it. There are factions, and factions within factions. It is impossible to please everyone. Making a friend often means making an enemy, but the opposite can be true as well. Alliances shift, friends can become enemies - look no further than Caesar and Pompey - and enemies can become friends. Being a Senator is an incredible balancing act. It is much simpler to be a soldier, like your friend here." He nodded to Artemis. "You know who your enemies are, and there's always someone to tell you what to do."

"Yea," Artemis laughed in agreement,"sometimes it is easier being the simple line soldier, knowing your place and that you only have to follow orders. But, as time grows, even the simplest of soldiers tends to think of the best way to do what he is told. Those in the higher ranks learn that a simple order can have different meanings if the situation changes. "

Artemis took another sip of the wine. "But, enemies can be reconciled and wouldn't it be best if Caesar and Pompey just worked together without any fighting? Celebrations and alliances can be a lot better for the local merchants, I would think?"

"I wouldn't worry about the merchants; they'll make a profit whatever way the tide turns, sharks that they are." Caelia smiles warmly at Scaevola,"Thank you, senator; it's just that I have a patient I must check on this evening; but we have some time yet. And I can always come back another evening. Please, tell me more of the initiation; what would Artemis or I have to do, should we wish to pursue the path for greater knowledge?"

"It would have been better had Caesar and Pompey remained friends, as they had been once," said Scaevola. "When Pompey ordered Caesar back to Rome, he underestimated him. Alas, it is too late for Pompey. Caesar had no wish to see him dead, of course. The war continued on years after it should have been over, as Pompey's followers were loathe to surrender. Had Pompey been taken alive, I'm sure Caesar would have sent him into exile rather than taking his life, and granted amnesty to his supporters if they laid down their arms."

Scaevola smiled back at Caelia. "It is a wonderful evening, and I will be saddened to lose your delightful company when the time comes when you must depart, but your patients must come first. You will of course be welcome to return at any time. The offer of initiation is open only to you, dear lady, not to your friends. They are not prepared to walk this path. I cannot tell you what it entails, for the initiation rite itself is a secret, and only those who undergo it may know the details. Suffice it to say that there is no risk to your health, and it will not require too much of your time. We would go to the exedra to conduct the initiation." He referred to the indoor garden just off of the courtyard through which they had passed. "Your friends would be free to explore the grounds while they awaited us."

"Lady Caelia, if you want to proceed with the induction, I can check on Spurius if it would be easier, however, I do believe that we have an early morning obligation that requires us to return in the not to distant future," Artemis smiled and looked back and forth between the Senator and the physician.

Caelia ponders. "I think... may Artemis and I have a moment alone, Senator? Maybe we can arrange for me to stay here." She stands gracefully and walks over to a quiet corner to have a private word with Artemis.

Artemis smiled and followed Caelia over to the corner of the room. "Well, what would you like to do at this point?

"Of course, my lady," said Scaevola. "I would be most pleased if you would remain here tonight as my guest." He stood aside while Caelia and Artemis conferred.

Caelia speaks in a low voice. "I'm concerned that we should be reporting back to the palace and meeting up with the others to discuss tomorrow's plan. Although we haven't really discovered anything here of relevance; it's only my gut feeling that Scaevola is up to his neck in it, but he's just too damn smooth; he's a perfect politician!

Do you think we should bid him goodnight or do you think we're on to something here? It all points to an Egyptian cult; a perfect candidate to murder Caesar. I fear the only way to get further here is to partake in his initiation ceremony; I confess I'm intrigued by it but I'm also very wary what it might entail. I'm sure he wouldn't try anything on the daughter of the most respected physician in Rome, my father is Father is Caelius Albus Graecus, but I'd feel better if you or Spurius were here to pick up the pieces afterwards."

"I tend to agree, good lady," Artemis nodded as he ensured his voice was simply a whisper. "I too feel we should be aware of what Ceasar and the others are doing. This Senator seems to have his head more in the clouds than in practice. However, I don't believe that you should be here solely on your own. We could send Spurius back as a runner to let the others know of your intent to remain here. I can wander about the grounds. Obviously, we will need to ensure we get some rest too."

"It is a good plan. Spurius can find the others; they will still probably be at Germanicus' residence, and take a message to the palace; won't he like that idea! I'll keep Scaevola busy and you'll hopefully have a bit more freedom to have a scout around where the Senator doesn't want us to look. I'll also be glad to know you are near; don't forget 'Ariadne' should things go awry."

Caelia smiles, "I am used to being awake all night with my work, as I'm sure you are too; we can get some sleep later." She swallows, "Well, here goes, I wonder what I am in for." She grasps Artemis' hand briefly and then turns away to face Scaevola.

"Then, let's do this and hope we can catch a bit of a nap in the early dawn," Artemis smiled in agreement. He glanced about and to get a sense of where he might find Spurius, who had been left with the thinly cladded Egyptian servants near where the food was being prepared, he suspected. A soldier, no matter the age, never let the opportunity for beauty and food to go unnoticed or underappreciated.

Caelia smiles warmly at Scaevola. "Artemis has kindly agreed to instruct Spurius and then will probably lounge around your beautiful gardens and drink too much wine. Spurious will return if my patient is worse but I think that unlikely. So, I am at your disposal for a little while longer at least." She laughs, the sound tinkling in the warm air.

"Excellent, I am most pleased," replied Scaevola to Caelia with a smile. "If your friends need anything while they await us, they need only ask my servants. My lady, if you are ready for the initiaion, we shall proceed to the exedra."

Artemis soon found Spurius in the servants' quarters, as he had suspected. He was reclining with a pretty serving girl on each arm. While they stroked his muscles, a third fed him dates from a small tray.

Caelia darts a rather worried look at Artemis' broad back as he disappears towards the servants' quarters. Then she takes a deep breath, and nods to the senator.

"Spurius, I see you managed to keep yourself well entertained and um fed," Artemis smiled at his fellow soldier. "New orders though my friend, we need you to run back to the others and let them know that Lady Caelia is partaking in this Senator's initiation ceremony. I can easily keep your place here, and maybe one of these lovelies could be so kind as to give me tour of the Villa, a library if it has one?"

Artemis smirked at Spurius' obvious frustration in not being able to fully enjoy the fruits that were being offered to him. "Sorry, son, but duty to the Republic above all else while in the service of Rome, right?" Ladies, I am Artemis Gaius Sylvius retired from the Legions and could I ever tell you stories, maybe one of you could show me about the Villa? Explain all of Egypt that has been moved here?"

Spurius reluctantly rose with a sigh. "My apologies ladies, but I must withdraw," he said. "Duty calls." He saluted Artemis before leaving.

The girls watched him depart, then turned their attention to Artemis. The one with the tray of dates set it down and approached. "I shall show you around, good sir," she said. "The Senator's library is in the tablinum, where you met with him earlier. This way." She led him through the outdoor garden and into the study.

OOC,[b]Caelia[/b] is moving to the thread linked below:

The Initiation

OOC,[b]Aretmis[/b] is moving to the thread linked below:

The Grand Tour

OOC,[b]Spurius[/b] is moving to the thread linked below:

The Messenger