Thread: Ancient Rome (blushing-rose and casketslinger)

Karin blinked uncertainly, discomfited by the sudden turn of events. Furiouss words were harsh but his expression was one of amusement. She took comfort in the fact that she had somehow escaped the encounter unscathed, and tried to follow the mans train of thought. I dare because I consider the alternative to be punishment enough Master. She tried not to think about the threat of death and clenched her hands into fists to stop them shaking. If fighting your oppression honours my mother then I will do it gladly. Please make no mistake in return that you will be waiting for an eternity. I will never give myself to a Roman willingly. She spoke boldly, but when she met his gaze again and saw the hardness there she quailed slightly, remembering her new position. The flame of rebellion that had fuelled her outburst flickered and waned. Thus it was that when Faustus called out and the coach slowed she sunk back into subservient silence, her eyes firmly on the floor. The girl arrived first, eager and innocent. Karin heard the fondness in Furiouss voice as he replied to her comments. This Claudia was clearly a favourite. At least she seemed friendlier than the next woman who arrived. Chloes voice was petulant as she questioned her cousin, and Karin recognised the well cultured tone of good breeding, tainted by disapproval and suspicion. She took Furiouss hand when he proffered it and stepped down shyly from the carriage, as confused as his family evidently was by her introduction. The robe had seemed an odd gesture earlier but she had interpreted it guardedly, whereas there was no mistaking his intentions with these remarks. She almost turned to the soldier with the question on her lips, but got no opportunity to voice it. Chloes shriek of outrage was enough to keep her silent, shrinking slightly behind Furious as the older woman directed her attention towards her. The word filthy rankled, but she held her tongue with difficulty. There was no need for her to fan the flames of this ladys temper even further when it seemed to be burning fiercely enough on its own. As Chloe left, followed closely by Faustus, Karin found herself face to face with the next member of the family she was to call her hosts. Antonias voice did not carry the same anger as his mothers had, although his attentions still caused her to shiver as he mirrored his fathers actions from earlier. She wanted to step away but thought better of it, instead remaining frozen on the spot. Furiouss response to his son's question surprised her. Not ten minutes earlier he had cautioned her about speaking in Faustuss presence, and yet here his words to his son now seemed to give her permission to converse freely. She glanced at his retreating back questioningly, but received no further guidance. She felt Antonia scrutinise her again and hesitated momentarily before replying. Life would be easier if she could make herself understood. I do speak Latin Master, although it is not my mother tongue. Despite being awarded the title of a guest in the household, she was still unsure how to address Furiouss family. Erring on the side of caution seemed to be the best approach for now. I understood your question but am unable to answer it. I did not know my Father and cannot answer for whose blood runs in my veins. She gave a small shrug. Many of your people have invaded my country so I suspect your guess may not be far from the truth. Her pride flared again and she could not stop herself from adding, I consider myself to be wholly Celtic. Whatever Roman connection I have was not of my choosing.