Thread: Ancient Rome (blushing-rose and casketslinger)

Karin blushed a brilliant shade of red when Antonia confronted her about her conversation with Maelstrom. She had not supposed that he would understand Gaelic and had been reckless in speaking so openly in front of him. His reply was gentle, but she couldnt help but feel chastised as he spoke. She had no intention of getting used to Rome or of enjoying it, but she decided not to challenge Antonia further on the matter, instead remaining silent. Even so, as they moved into the house she couldnt help but reflect on what he had said. Maelstrom had looked content in his practice, and he certainly looked stronger and better fed than many of the men back home, where a bad harvest could disadvantage a whole community and leave them hungry. She listened eagerly as Antonia spoke, grateful for the cool shade that the house afforded. He had been perceptive when he had noticed her swooning, and she was keen now to sit down. She had been going to ask whether the rest of the slaves were all Britons too, but didnt get the opportunity. They had entered a large dining room and the sight of the feast on the table instantly distracted her. Karin moved forward hesitantly, only reaching out to grab a handful of lamb after receiving Antonias permission. She groaned in quiet relief as it passed her lips, and fully gave into her hunger. Mindless of her manners, she helped herself to the meat, cheese and fruit. She avoided the yoghurt, not recognising it, but did dare to try the hors doeuvres, marvelling at how much effort had gone into making such intricate food. So engrossed was she in eating that she only became aware of the din as Chloe entered the room. She jumped back from the table guiltily, mouth still full of food, as Chloe rounded on her. The older ladys outburst was intense, but Karin was heartened by Antonias casual defence of her, and this bolstered her own spirit. Being described as a thing rankled, but this time Karin didnt take the insult meekly. She raised her head high, firmly waving the maidservant away as she neared her. I will go to my room when I have had my fill, she stated firmly, each word underlain by a silent challenge to the matriarch of the house. If Antonia was correct and Furious had the final say, then Karin could undermine her hostess safely. No wonder Chloe was so irritated by her presence. She could sense the disdain in the posh womans gaze as she took another handful of lamb, ate it and then licked her fingers clean. What a commoner. Saloninia hovered by impatiently, watching the new slave through narrowed eyes. She guessed the girl to be her junior by at least five years. Where Aurelias figure was diminutive, Saloninia tended towards plumpness, and where the younger girls appearance suggested Roman origins, the handmaidens dirty blonde hair and blue eyes were typical of her homeland of Gaul. She was dressed in a plain white tunic, which though clean and of a decent quality was clearly inferior to the one Aurelia wore. Saloninia wondered jealously what services Aurelia had performed on the Master of the house to win such favour. As the slave girl helped herself to wine, Saloninia hurried forwards, keen to offset another outburst from her Mistress. Please, girl, come with me. Youll make no friends with such an attitude. Karin turned to argue, but held her tongue as she saw the genuine look of distress on the handmaidens face. Doubtless it would be this woman who was blamed if Karin continued to refuse Chloes command. Relenting, she set down the cup and nodded at the older slave. Alright, Ill come. You neednt worry. She followed Saloninia out of the dining room through a different door to the one that Antonia and she had entered, resisting the urge to shoot a final contemptuous glance in her new Mistresss direction. Saloninia was right such an attitude would not make her any friends, although she doubted she stood much chance with Chloe anyway. Instead she focused on the lady ahead of her. Whats it like, working here? Saloninia didnt turn around as she answered. Its a good life. The house of Medullinus is well respected and they treat their staff fairly. We may not all get treated like a guest at this she paused and shot Karin a scornful glance but we are kept well and not punished unduly. She turned to her left and pushed open a small door. This is your room. Karin followed her in, unsure what to make of the other slaves disdain. She had expected it from Chloe, but she had hoped that the staff at least would be friendly. She looked around the room. It was fairly small by Roman standards but was still bigger than anything she had known before. At home the sleeping area was separated from the main living space of the hut by a curtain. Piled sheepskin and rugs made the floor softer, and the cooking fire kept the whole hut warm. Here, a large bedframe supported a mattress, cushions and sheets. The rest of the room was empty save for a small wooden chest, presumably intended to hold her possessions, although she had none. She walked towards the bed and let the sheet run through her fingers. Thank you, she said softly. She heard Saloninia snort behind her and turned, questioningly. You dont like me, do you? Saloninia grimaced. Suffice to say I think it odd that a waif like you get treated with such favour, when those of us who have been loyal to the household for many years continue to live in the outbuildings and work for the privilege. She scowled at the young girl. I dont know exactly how you have whored yourself out to earn this room and nor do I want to. I hope its worth it. She turned on her heel and was gone before Karin had chance to reply, leaving the Celt alone in her new room to process what she had just said.