Rome, The Eternal City
Quintus Lutatius Catalus, tribune of the III Legion, veteran of the Gallic Wars, had never been so happy to see home. He spent his entire childhood inside the walls of Rome, but after nearly 3 years away, it seemed like he was seeing it for the first time. His commander had granted him a reprieve to return home to take care of his father. The old man had started to take a turn for the worse these last few weeks, and as his only child, Quintus had to make sure his father's affairs were in order in case... something happened. The thought darkened Quintus mind. His father was the strongest man he knew, and was a hero to much of the Roman Republic. The idea of him as an old man in the last days of his life seemed impossible.
Quintus nodded to himself as he walked down the streets, near the markets. He felt a little awkward in his senatorial tunic. Armor was heavier, but he didn't feel comfortable without it. The only protection he had was one of his father's slaves, Brennus, who was old even when Quintus was a boy. Despite Brennus' age, he was strong and one of his family's most trusted slaves. A big man like him was more than enough of a deterrent for anyone looking to start trouble.
As they approached the slave trader district, Brennus spoke up. The man rarely spoke, so everyone, including his master, were inclined to listen. "It'll be alright, master. He was a good man in life. I am sure he will be treated well in the afterlife." he said. If there was one thing that made Quintus' skin crawl, it was being called "master", but the young Roman took it in his stride. "You speak as if he is already dead, old bull." Quintus used his affectionate nickname for Brennus. "But I think you are right. I just wish I had more time."
"He is proud of you, as am I. It does me good to see the little babe whose ass I used to wipe turn out to be a decent fellow. Almost make's it worth it." Brennus deadpaned, and Quintus laughed. Even Quintus' father tolerated the slave's insubordinate behavior, as Brennus always meant well. Quintus was suprised to hear his old friend talk again. "She's a pretty one." he pointed at the nearest slave cage. Quintus turned to look and saw a girl there. She looked about his age, maybe younger, with lush brown hair and eyes that almost looked like gold. She would have looked beautiful, if she didn't look so sad. Quintus motioned for his slave to follow him, and they both went to the cages.
