Professional Documents
Culture Documents
~DRAMATIS PERSONAE~
Character Virtues include: Charity, Faith, Fortitude, Hope, Justice, Prudence and Temperance.
Character Vices include: Envy, Gluttony, Greed, Lust, Pride, Sloth and Wrath.
AMBROSII MAMERCII (Patrician) (Kurt)
The Ambrosii Mamercii are stalwart, guiding bastions of the Roman Republic and trace their
lineage back to Alba Longa and the refugees of the Trojan War. Members of the Ambrosii
gens state that they are descended from Mimas, the Trojan guide who aided Aeneas in
fleeing Troy. With Alba Longa’s destruction during the reign of King Tullus Hostilius, the
Ambrosii Mamercii were forcibly moved to Rome and resettled on the Caelian Hill with the
other Alban refugees. In Rome, King Tullus Hostilius enrolled the Ambrosii Mamercii in the
Senate as patricians because of their august lineage.
The Ambrosii Mamercii soon lived up to their heritage. “Ambrosius” means “immortal” in
Greek and the first Ambrosius founded his gens by blood spilled in battle. During Rome’s
early expansion in the 6th century BC, a Roman force was outnumbered and barricaded by an
Etruscan band. Pressed, Ambrosius took charge and rallied the Romans about him. He stated
that, although he might not prevail in the fight before him, death would not mean he had
been conquered; just that he had died with honour. He said the deeds he did before he died
would see him immortalized forever. With that, Ambrosius jumped the barricade and
charged the Etruscans. The Romans followed him. Ambrosius died in the fighting, but the
Roman force survived. In their fallen member’s honour, the name Ambrosius was taken by all
members of Ambrosius’ gens, a symbol of Trojan heroics and Roman fortitude, courage and
indomitable spirit. These qualities have been imbedded in successive generations of the
Ambrosii Mamercii who live up to that ideal.
The Ambrosii Mamercii have long held estates in Latium near Lake Alban, close to ruined Alba
Longa. In Rome, the Domus Ambrosii Mamercii is medium sized and well appointed. It is
located at a prestigious bend on the Caelian Hill with panoramic views.
GNAEUS AMBROSIUS MAMERCUS (Kurt) (mid 40’s) – is a celebrated patrician veteran of the
Pyrrhic War. Ambrosius Mamercus caused ripples through Rome at the beginning of the Pyrrhic
War when, as a Military Tribune, his sense of justice caused him to expose Tarentine bribery of
fellow Roman officers. The young Military Tribune held a court martial, established guilt, and
sent the offenders to his legion’s consul who ordered them executed. The event was a defining
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beginning in an ensuing public career of strict Roman traditionalism and support for Rome’s
mos maiorum (“customs of the ancestors”).
Ambrosius Mamercus fought with courage and determination through the Pyrrhic War. At the
Battle of Heraclea in 280 BC, Ambrosius Mamercus’ friend Decimus Aurelius Priscus was killed
while fighting next to him. Ambrosius Mamercus himself was wounded but survived the Battle
of Heraclea principally because of the brave efforts of Lucius Cornelius Scapula Snr, who carried
Ambrosius Mamercus to safety when the Roman lines collapsed. Ambrosius Mamercus
recovered from his wounds and ran for election as Quaeastor. He won, and returned to the
army as its General’s Quaeastor, a practical role to which he was suited. Ambrosius Mamercus
went on to win a Gold Crown at the Battle of Beneventum.
Post‐war, Ambrosius Mamercus has built up a strong array of clients amongst Rome’s
traditional plebeian farmers and cross‐roads colleges. The farmers and cross‐roads colleges are
attracted to Ambrosius Mamercus’ strong Roman ethics and practical support. He also has
patrician friends like his brother‐in‐law Marcius Malleolus Snr, who share his views. Ambrosius
Mamercus has put off further advancement up the cursus honorum, instead preferring his
Alban estates where he takes a personal interest in their management, having a genuine love of
farming. Visitors to the estate will often be invited to walk about the grounds and see firsthand
the fruits of his labour.
The idyllic Alban estates of the Ambrosii Mamercii. Lake Alban is in the background.
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Ambrosius Mamercus is proud of his estates and his ethics. His rustic credibility has become a
commodity in Rome where he is popular with the Comitia Tributa and Comitia Centuriata.
Ambrosius Mamercus is sought after by many to represent them in court or have him speak for
them in the Senate. Various factions in the Senate seek to enlist him in various causes and
consequently he has been co‐opted as an augur. Before he embraces any cause though,
Ambrosius Mamercus assesses whether what is proposed is in the interest of Rome and in line
with the mos maiorum. If it is not, then he will not support it. This reinforces Ambrosius
Mamercus’ credibility and popularity with the people.
Gnaeus Ambrosius Mamercus is married to Cornelia Scapula and they have 3 children: 1:
Gnaeus Ambrosius Mamercus Jnr (late teens), 2: Mamerca (late teens) and 3: Ambrosia (mid
teens). Gnaeus Ambrosius Mamercus’ younger brother Publius Ambrosius Mamercus is also in
the Senate and has been a Quaeastor.
CORNELIA SCAPULA (early 40’s) – is the wife of Gnaeus Ambrosius Mamercus and sister of
Lucius Cornelius Scapula Snr. Cornelia Scapula has a gluttonous desire to meet her gaudy
material needs that is at odds with her husband’s budget. Consequently, she also has the
fortitude to bear his incessant intellectualization of even the smallest inane thing that analyses
how “that issue” fits within the mos maiorum.
As a patrician Cornelii, Cornelia Scapula has become involved with the Vestal Virgins and has
cultivated a relationship with the Chief Vestal, Claudia Nerones. Cornelia Scapula supports the
Vestals in the rituals of the Bona Dea. Bona Dea business is often a reason for Cornelia traveling
to Rome at short notice. Seamstresses and jewelers always look forward to her arrival. When in
Rome Cornelia dotes on her eldest daughter, Mamerca, wife of Lucius Caecilius Metellus.
Cornelia regrets that her “dear boy” is travelling abroad.
GNAEUS AMBROSIUS MAMERCUS JNR (late teens) ‐ is the eldest son of Gnaeus Ambrosius
Mamercus and Cornelia Scapula. Ambrosius Mamercus Jnr is currently studying abroad on the
Isle of Rhodes where he is learning rhetoric, mathematics and politics. It is acknowledged that
he has little in common with his father and that they disagreed about Ambrosius Mamercus Jnr
continuing his studies abroad when his father thought he ought to be enrolling in the legions.
While abroad, Ambrosius Mamercus Jnr manages his finances through the Petronii Maximii
family. Ambrosius Mamercus Jnr is noted for his hopeful disposition but it is also acknowledged
he tends to lean towards the same gluttonous desires as his mother, from time to time.
MAMERCA (late teens) – is the eldest daughter of Gnaeus Ambrosius Mamercus and Cornelia
Scapula. A younger version of her mother, Mamerca is married to Quintus Caecilius Metellus, a
promising young man from a noble plebeian family.
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AMBROSIA (mid teens) – is the attractive youngest daughter of Gnaeus Ambrosius Mamercus
and Cornelia Scapula. Her father’s daughter at heart, Ambrosia supports her father’s causes and
believes in traditional Roman virtues. A temperate, obedient daughter, Ambrosia is considered
a real marital catch except that she is over proud with respect to her father’s virtues, which she
will not bend on.
THE AEMILII (Patrician) (Storyteller)
One of the most ancient patrician houses at Rome, the Aemilii are of Sabine origin. The
Aemilii are descended from Mamercus, King Numa Pompilius’ fourth son. King Numa
Pompilius was Rome’s second king. Mamercus received the name of Aemilius on account of
the persuasiveness of his language. The first member of the house who obtained the
consulship was Lucius Aemilius Mamercus in 484 BC. Since that time, the Aemilii have been
central figures in the Roman Republic.
LUCIUS AEMILIUS BARBULA (mid 60’s) – is the son of the notable Quintus Aemilius Barbula. He
was consul in 281 BC and was given a command against the Samnites. Lucius Aemilius Barbula
invaded the territory of Tarentum, which summoned Pyrrhus of Epirus for help, starting the
Pyrrhic War. In 280 BC, he was awarded a triumph for his victories in Tarentum, Samnium, and
elsewhere.
Aemilius Barbula is the current leader of the Civic Faction and is noted for his prudent, wrathful
and crafty nature. Aemilius Barbula is a widower but has three children: 1: Aemilia Barbula
(mid teens) 2: Lucius Aemilius Barbula (early teens) and 3: Marcus Aemilius Barbula (a child).
MARCUS AEMILIUS PAULLUS (mid 30’s) – was elected curule aedile in 266 BC and is widely
considered a future consular candidate. Aemilius Paullus distinguished himself in the last
phases of the Pyrrhic War and is regarded as a very capable and reliable man. Since the end of
the Pyrrhic War, Aemilus Paullus has been busy expanding his family’s fortunes in Magna
Graecia. He is a member of the Commerce Faction. Aemilius Paullus is prudent but greedy.
Following the completion of his term as curule aedile, Aemilius Paullus is now seeking a wife.
Aemilius Paullus’ mother was a Cornelia Scipiones and he is close friends with his cousins
Gnaeus and Lucius Cornelius Scipio. Aemilius Paullus was mentored by his more distant cousin,
Lucius Cornelius Scapula Snr, with whom he remains close.
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APOLLONII QUADRATII (Plebeian) (Will)
The Apollonii Quadratii trace their ancestry to the founders of Cumae in Campania who
originated from the city of Cuma on the Isle of Euboea in Greece. At Cumae, the Apollonii
Quadratii intermarried with Latins and prospered until the Samnites attacked, seized and
plundered Cumae in 421 BC. The Apollonii Quadratii, with other leading Cumaen families, fled
to Latium. The Apollonii Quadratii settled in Aricia and took over responsibility for the temple
of Apollo at the central cross‐roads of the city. Aricia’s growing prosperity was partly
attributed to this care. In the 4th century BC, Aricia was annexed by Rome for its own
protection from marauding Samnites. Aricia was made a municipium of Rome, providing the
citizens of Aricia with Roman citizenship. The Apollonii Quadratii enlisted in Rome’s legions
and fought the Samnites, and later, Rome’s other enemies, with great distinction. In peace,
the Apollonii Quadratii entered into the clientship of the Valerii Equitii and saw their star rise
with Rome’s as they built an extensive trade network using Rome’s military highways. Now,
released from clientship, the Apollonii Quadratii has accrued enough wealth to aspire to the
high offices of the Roman Republic as novus homo. The Apollonii Quadratii remain close allies
with their former patrons, the Valerii Equitii.
GAIUS APOLLONIUS QUADRATUS SNR (mid 50’s) – an equestrian of considerable means,
Apollonius Quadratus Snr served with distinction as a Primus Pilum Centurion in the Pyrrhic
Wars and has significantly added to his family’s fortune by the commercial connections he has
made in Magna Graecia. In particular, after the Pyrrhic War, Apollonius Quadratus Snr spent
several years on the road in southern Italy with his patron, Titus Valerius Equitus Snr. Together
they made a large number of good land purchases that solidified the fortunes of the Apollonii
Quadratii and made the patrician Valerii Equitii one of the wealthiest families in Rome. Valerius
Equitus Snr’s gratitude and friendship led to him releasing the Apollonii Quadratii from the
clientele of the Valerii Equitii. The money made by Apollonius Quadratus Snr is enough to make
it possible for his descendants to have a political career and Valerius Equitus Snr has agreed to
support the public career ambitions of the Apollonii Quadratii.
A temperate man who lives beneath his means, Apollonius Quadratus Snr has a respectable
domus on the Aventine Hill but is openly looking for a moderate Palatine residence to reflect
his financial successes. Apollonius Quadratus Snr’s detractors say he is a man of deep ambition
who is calling in favours to position his son for a career in the Senate, something they say he is
envious of not being able to do himself.
Gaius Apollonius Quadratus Snr is married to Autronia and they have 5 children: 1: Gaius
Apollonius Quadratus (Will) (late teens), 2: Gaia (mid teens), 3: Sextus Apollonius Quadratus
(mid teens), 4: Apollonia (early teens), and 5: Spurius Apollonius Quadratus (late childhood).
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AUTRONIA (mid 40’s) – the wife of Gaius Apollonius Quadratus Snr, Autronia has strong faith in
the gods but is deeply envious of her betters’. From an aspiring equites family, Autronia is
deeply uncomfortable in the presence of patricians (particularly the Valerii Equitii) and noble
plebeians. She is dismissive, patronizing and critical of poorer plebeians than herself.
GAIUS APOLLONIUS QUADRATUS (Will) (late teens) – Ready to enroll in the legions next year,
the young Gaius Apollonius Quadratus is renowned as a fine horseman on the Campus Martius.
He is a young man noted for his sense of justice and wrathful response when provoked. The
ambitions of Gaius Apollonius Quadratus Snr for his son mark the boy out as a potential novus
homo, leading to some ridicule from noble peers and Fabius Pictor’s Bully Boys.
THE ATILII (Plebeian) (Storyteller)
The Atilii are descended from an ancient Calabrian family that attained royal sovereignty over
large parts of Campania, near Capua. With Roman expansion, the Atilii, by then the leading
family of all Campania, developed a relationship with the Fabii who owned large tracts of
land around Falernia. The Atilii entered the clientele of the Fabii. Soon the Atilii were Roman
citizens. On entering the Senate in the 3rd century BC, the Atilii relied on Fabian patronage
for advancement. The first Atilii to become consul was Marcus Atilius Regulus Calenus, in 335
BC. From him came two powerful branches of the family – the Atilii Caiatinii and the Atilii
Regulii. Both branches of the gens Atilii maintain a close relationship with the Fabii Maximii.
AULUS ATILIUS CAIATINUS (early 40’s) – is the son of Aulus Atilius Caiatinus who was accused
of betraying the city of Sora in the Samnite Wars. Standing in disgrace of his imminent
condemnation, the elder Caiatinus was saved by a few timely words from his father‐in‐law the
great Fabius Maximus Rullianus (the first Maximus). Fabius Maximus Rullianus asserted that he
would never continue his relationship as patron had he believed Caiatinus was guilty of such a
crime. Thus, Aulus Atilius Caiatinus is the grandson, on his mother’s side, of the famous Fabius
Rullianus, a fact that he is very proud of. Aulus Atilius Caiatinus has been Quaeastor, Tribune of
the Plebs and Plebeian Aedile. He is a skilled mediator and has a good court room reputation,
being noted for his just approach to litigation. Atilius Caiatinus is expected to try his hand for
the consulship in the years ahead. He is currently looking for a wife.
MARCUS ATILIUS REGULUS (late 40’s) – was consul in 267 BC with his friend Lucius Julius Libo.
During their term as consuls Marcus Atilius Regulus and Lucius Julius Libo, with Lucius Cornelius
Scipio as a legate, defeated the Salentini and captured Brundisium. The spoils from these
victories made the two consuls fabulously wealthy. For Marcus Atilius Regulus, it allowed him
to dramatically expand his client base (which now includes much of the city of Brundisium).
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Marcus Atilius Regulus is a risen star in Rome, a man of influence and clout whose speeches in
the Senate sway public opinion. He exercised this clout when he divorced his plebeian wife with
whom he had no children and married Marcia, a patrician Marcii Malleolii – a magnificent
match for an Atilii Regulii.
Marcus Atilius Regulus is the son of another Marcus Atilius Regulus, the consul of 294 BC (and
the second man of the gens Atilii to attain the consulship). Marcus Atilius Regulus’ early career
was noted for his battlefield prowess in the Pyrrhic Wars.
Marcus Atilius Regulus has an optimistic, hopeful, disposition. He has a gluttonous, demanding
need to succeed that sometimes leads him into reckless activity but has advanced his political
career. Marcus Atilius Regulus has a tendency to just say what he thinks, quite directly. He has
been a Quaeastor, Tribune of the Plebs, Plebeian Aedile and Consul. Marcus Atilius Regulus
openly expects his star will rise further and that he may become censor, a prospect loathed by
Marcus Atilius Regulus’ envious contemporaries.
Marcus Atilius Regulus is married to Marcia and they have 2 children: 1: Marcus Atilius Regulus
(a toddler), and 2: Gaius Atilius Regulus (an infant).
MARCIA (late teens) – a patrician Marcii Malleolii, Marcia is enamored and in love with her
dashing husband. Marcia has high hopes for her husband’s continuing career and has been
obsessed with providing him with heirs. Having done so in only three short years of marriage,
she is feeling fatigued (slothful) by the experience and desires to spend time on the Atilii
estates in Campania where she hopes the country air will revitalize her.
GAIUS ATILIUS REGULUS SERRANUS (mid 30’s) – is the younger brother of Marcus Atilius
Regulus. Gaius Atilius Regulus Serranus’ career has not had the meteoric rise of his brother’s,
which causes him moments of jealous envy. Atilius Serranus’ career, however, is notable in its
own right. He served with honor during the later years of the Pyrrhic War and was a legate in
his brother’s consular army that defeated the Salentini and captured Brundisium. Atilius
Serranus personally fought with his troops, leading from the front and was noted by his troops
for his courage and fortitude.
With his brother’s wealth assuring him of the resources for a political career, Atilius Serranus is
said to be considering running for the office of plebeian aedile. He has already been a
Quaeastor and a Tribune of the Plebs. A recent rumor is that Atilius Serranus is also considering
marriage and is looking for a suitable match. Atilius Serranus has used his war booty to
establish several large latifundia estates in Magna Graecia on land once belonging to the
leading citizens of Brundisium. The conversion of these properties to working latifundia is not
yet complete, but it is said that because of the quantity of land and number of slaves, long term
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profit will be huge. Atilius Serranus has a large clientele comprised of former legionaries and
allies he commanded as a legate.
AURELII PRISCII (Plebeian) (Leith)
Decimus Aurelius Priscus is an old, but living, Roman hero. A great Roman leader in the
Second and Third Samnite Wars, Decimus Aurelius Priscus was a novus homo when he
became consul in 307 BC with the legendary Appius Claudius Caecus, his patron. The pair
were consuls together again in 296 BC. Decimus Aurelius Priscus was such a passionate
fighter in his youth that he was cognominated Priscus (proud) by his patron Appius Claudius
Caecus. Before Decimus Aurelius Priscus raised the family to nobility, the Aurelii had played
an important role in the Battle of the Orders that lead to special plebeian rights. As clients of
the great Appius Claudius Caecus, the Aurelii, via the office of the Tribune of the Plebs,
supported Claudius Caecus’ policies of extending the Roman franchise to men without land in
the rural tribes and allowing the sons of freedmen entry into the Senate.
In the 2nd century BC, the Aurelii Priscii are dominated by the whims of the great Decimus
Aurelius Priscus who has increasingly advocated a personal preferred path of peace over war.
Decimus Aurelius Priscus moved from the Expansionist Faction to the Conservative Faction
after the death of his old patron Appius Claudius Caecus in 279 BC.
DECIMUS AURELIUS PRISCUS (mid 70’s) – is a different man now to what the men of his own
political generation would remember, if they still lived. He is noted for his chastity and wrath. A
living legend in Rome’s Conservative Faction, Decimus Aurelius Priscus is a novus homo who has
been consul twice. He commands deep respect and has a definitive presence. Those who have
known him for some time, however, note the calm difference in him now from the fiery, proud
passion of his prime. Decimus Aurelius Priscus was once one of Rome’s greatest soldiers. But
two wars and more campaigns than he can count, finally overcame Decimus Aurelius Priscus.
Out of loyalty and friendship to his old patron Appius Claudius Caecus, Decimus Aurelius Priscus
stayed with the Expansionist Faction a decade longer than he wanted, a decade in which he
largely avoided the Senate. On his return to the Senate, he joined the Conservative Faction and
has remained there since. Decimus Aurelius Priscus’ policy change was reinforced when his son
was killed in the Pyrrhic War at the Battle of Heraclea, leaving him to care for his grandchildren.
The change in Decimus Aurelius Priscus has affected the way he has raised his grandchildren.
This has led to his enemies (really the children and grandchildren of his enemies) to say behind
hand comments that “his change has made the children go soft.”
Notwithstanding his shifting political views, Decimus Aurelius Priscus has maintained a close
personal relationship with the Claudian descendants of Appius Claudius Caecus, including
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marrying one of Claudius Caecus’ granddaughters to his son. The Claudians call Decimus
Aurelius Priscus “uncle” and like to hear tales of their illustrious ancestor. Claudius Caecus’
youngest grandson Gaius Claudius Caecus, is particularly fond of Deciumus Aurelius Priscus and
visits regularly with his own son, Gaius Claudius Centho.
Decimus Aurelius Priscus made a fortune in war loot from his many campaigns. He used this
money, and his original modest fortune, to buy cheaply from SPQR vast tracts of high quality
Etruscan land that he conquered in the Third Samnite War. Decimus Aurelius Priscus’ domus is
on the fashionable Aventine Hill, overlooking the Circus Maximus.
CLAUDIA PRISCUS (early 40’s) – is the granddaughter of the legendary Appius Claudius Caecus
and the eldest daughter of Appius Claudius who was killed in the Pyrrhic War. She is the sister
of Appius Claudius Caudex, Gaius Claudius Caecus, Publius Claudius Pulcher and Claudia Caecus.
Claudia Priscus married Decimus Aurelius Priscus’ only son. It was a happy match for Claudia
Priscus and the loss of her husband at the Battle of Heraclea in the Pyrrhic War devastated and
changed her. The loss of her husband coincided with the loss of her father. Taking her dowry,
Claudia Priscus claimed the right of sui iuris, an independent widow, to liberate herself from any
male relatives who might seek to force her to re‐marry. This action upset her brother Appius
Claudius Caudex and earned her the name Claudia Priscus (the proud). For her children’s sake,
and the legacy of her husband, Claudia Priscus continued to live in the domus of the Aurelii
Priscii.
The relationship between Claudia Priscus and the aged Decimus Aurelius Priscus is a tense one
at times because Claudia Priscus does not share Decimus Aurelius Priscus’ political views but
must acknowledge him as the paterfamilias of her children. Claudia Priscus is a staunch
supporter of hard justice against domestic and foreign outlaws or foes of Rome. She has no
mercy (wrath) for those she judges to do wrong.
Claudia Priscus has three children: 1: Decimus Aurelius Priscus Jnr (late teens); 2: Aurelia (mid
teens); and 3: Marcus Aurelius Priscus (mid teens).
DECIMUS AURELIUS PRISCUS JNR (Leith) (late teens) – has been heavily influenced in his
schooling by his legendary grandfather’s moderated political views. Aurelius Priscus Jnr is noted
for his wide ranging scholarship, a topic he is very humble about. It has been noted, however,
that he clearly has difficulty reconciling his grandfather’s current politics with his grandfather’s
militant political, civil and battlefield achievements. Nevertheless, Aurelius Priscus Jnr is very
proud of his grandfather’s achievements.
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For the last two years, Aurelius Priscus Jnr has enlisted in the legions but has served as part of
the army’s command staff. It is speculated that this is at the insistence of the great Decimus
Aurelius Priscus.
AURELIA (mid teens) – renowned for her beauty and near purple eyes, Aurelia is a dutiful
daughter and sister. She is noted for having a thoughtful mind. She studiously avoids the topic
of marriage. Aurelia is patient and envious.
MARCUS AURELIUS PRISCUS (mid teens) – where Aurelius Priscus Jnr is the product of the aged
Decimus Aurelius Priscus, Marcus Aurelius Priscus epitomizes his grandfather in his youth. A
superior athlete, and being sharp of wit and quick to fight, Marcus Aurelius Priscus has had his
mother’s passion poured into him. He has a keen sense of justice and is developing a
consuming sense of lust, much to the dismay of the female house slaves.
THE CAECILII METELLII (Plebeian) (Storyteller)
The Caecilii Metellii are recent
additions to the nobility of Rome, only
becoming ennobled in 284 BC. Despite
this, or perhaps in spite of it, the
Caecilii Metellii claim descent from
Caeculus, the founder of Praeneste,
who in turn is descended from Caecas,
a companion of Aeneas. Although the
Caecilii Metellii have become
influential in a few short generations,
their conservative values and respect
for the mos maiorum have seen them
invited into the inner circle of
conservative, patrician, Rome.
LUCIUS CAECILIUS METELLUS (mid 20’s)
– is the son of Lucius Caecilius Metellus
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Denter, the consul of 284 BC, who was killed by the Celtic Senones and Boii under the
leadership of Britomaris at the Battle of Arretium. Caecilius Metellus Denter’s mother, Barcine
of Macedonia was an Antigonid princess whose father fled Macedonia during the dynastic
upheavals there and settled in Rome. This connection makes Caecilius Metellus a removed
cousin of the Antigonid King of Macedonia. Caecilius Metellus’ aunt, Caecilia Metella
Macedonica dotes on her nephew. She is married to Julius Libo, leader of the Commerce
Faction. Julius Libo has been a mentor and father figure to Caecilius Metellus in the years since
his father’s death.
Caecilius Metellus is currently approaching fellow Senators to gather support for his family’s old
friend Lupercusius Carnius Snr, who is planning on running for the consulship of 264 BC.
Caecilius Metellus is married to Mamerca of the Ambrosii Mamercii. They have no children.
Lucius Caecilius Metellus is a pious, faithful, brave and capable man. He is focused and knows
what he wants (gluttony). He has plans to run for the office of Junior Military Tribune in 264 BC.
CAECILIA METELLA (early 20’s) – is the widow of Gnaeus Sulpicius Paterculus, who died fighting
the Sallentini. They had no children. Caecilia Metella is known for her fortitude in adverse
circumstances. She is envious of those who have not lost like she has. She finds her sister‐in‐law
Mamerca very shallow and very, very grating.
MAMERCA (late teens) – is the daughter of Gnaeus Ambrosius Mamercus and Cornelia Scapula.
Mamerca is clearly attracted to her husband but is also very interested in what more he can
offer her (greed). She has bright hopes for the future and enjoys regularly catching up with her
mother when she is in Rome. Mamerca thinks her sister‐in‐law Caecilia Metella is a bore.
Mamerca has started to pressure Caecilius Metellus to find a new husband for Caecilia Metella
so she can be shipped off, out of her domus!
THE CLAUDII (Patrician) (Storyteller)
The Claudii are of Sabine origin and came to Rome just after the birth of the Republic. Attius
Clausus lead a large retinue of clients from Regillum in Sabinia to Rome, betraying his other
fellow Sabines. Attius Clausus was rewarded in Rome. He was enrolled in the Senate,
recognized as patrician and given significant land north of Rome near the Anio River. By
decree of the Senate, Attius Clausus cast off his Sabine name and became Appius Claudius.
Appius Claudius’ descendants have been loyal Romans ever since. They have a reputation for
arrogant, forthright ambition.
The greatest Claudian to date is the famous Appius Claudius Caecus, the son of Gaius Claudius
Crassus, the Dictator of 337 BC. From his eldest son Gaius Claudius, the Claudii Caudexii and
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Claudii Centhones are descended. The Claudii Nerones are descended from his second son,
Tiberius Claudius Nero.
Appius Claudius Caecus had a sensational and unprecedented career. A hero of the Second
and Third Samnite Wars, he was censor in 312 BC before being consul. He was consul in 307
BC and 296 BC, both times with Decimus Aurelius Priscus. Appius Claudius Caecus was
Dictator in 292 BC and 285 BC. As censor, Appius Claudius Caecus built the Via Appia,
connecting Rome with Capua, and built Rome’s first aqueduct, the Acqa Appia. His other
achievements included publishing Rome’s first legal procedure guide, legal calendar and
reforming the way the Latin language was written. Amongst his other defining achievements,
Appius Claudius Caecus attained the enmity of the great Quintus Fabius Maximus Rullianus.
Appius Claudius Caecus’ final significant public act was to make a speech to the ambassador
from King Pyrrhus in 280 BC where he said Rome would never, ever, surrender. He died a year
later.
APPIUS CLAUDIUS CAUDEX (late 40’s) – is the grandson and principal heir of Appius Claudius
Caecus’ legacy. He is the brother of Gaius Claudius Caecus, Claudia Priscus, Publius Claudius
Pulcher and Claudia Caecus. With his own father dying in the Pyrrhic Wars, Claudius Caudex
became the Claudian paterfamilias before his time. He rose to the challenge and has had a
successful career to date, having been elected up the Cursus Honorum to the office of curule
aedile. Confident (pride) and capable, Claudius Caudex has shown by speeches he has made in
the lower magistracies that he is a conservative by nature (temperate) who is so ruthless he will
flirt with populism to achieve his ambitions. This trait, similar to his grandfather’s, has made
him unpopular with the Fabian gens and some sub‐factions in the Conservative Faction.
Claudius Caudex is married with children in their late childhood.
GAIUS CLAUDIUS CAECUS (late 40’s) – is the younger brother of Claudius Caudex and has never
had the political ambitions of his elder brother. Instead, Gaius Claudius Caecus has focused on
raising a family and being with them, unlike so many of his other family members. For his
family’s reputation, he has been Quaeastor (charity) but has sought no higher office yet. He
spends a good deal of time with his mentor and friend Decimus Aurelius Priscus, and with his
sister Claudia Priscus (sloth). Gaius Claudius Caecus married young, confareatio, for life. He has
several children, the most prominent of whom is Gaius Claudius Centho.
GAIUS CLAUDIUS CENTHO (mid 20’s) – is the son of Gaius Claudius Caecus and has benefited
from the fine education given to him through his father’s tutelage and the mentoring of
Decimus Aurelius Priscus, his great‐grandfather’s right hand man. Claudius Centho is already
developing a reputation for public service, having enlisted in the legions every year since his
18th birthday (charity). In conspicuous displays of valor (pride), Claudius Centho has won
several phalerae and a Gold Crown against the Sallentini. It is said he is now considering
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running for Junior Military Tribune. It is common knowledge that if he does, he will draw a large
vote because the Comitia Centuriata is enamored of him. Claudius Centho is not yet married. In
the last two campaigning seasons he has looked out for his cousin, Decimus Aurelius Priscus Jnr.
PUBLIUS CLAUDIUS PULCHER (mid 30’s) – is the youngest brother of Claudius Caudex and
Claudius Caecus. Cognominated “Pulcher” or “beautiful”, Claudius Pulcher is a very handsome
man. He uses this to his advantage and has reportedly cuckolded several senators (lust). Every
bit as ambitious as his eldest brother, Claudius Pulcher has a vulgar and sacrilegious sense of
humour that does not lend him to Conservative Faction company. Claudius Pulcher seeks glory
and is determined to get it (hope). He has served as Quaeastor and is now openly considering
running for curule aedile. Claudius Pulcher is also seeking a wife equal to his status.
CLAUDIA CAECUS (late teens) – is the daughter of Gaius Claudius, son of the great Appius
Claudius Caecus. Spoilt, arrogant, painful to be around and a stunning beauty, Claudia Caecus
was born late in her father’s life and she has little memory of him. She has been raised to be
fully aware of her own worth (fortitude) as a patrician Claudian (pride).
TIBERIUS CLAUDIUS NERO (early 30’s) – is the son of the first Tiberius Claudius Nero who was
killed in the Pyrrhic Wars,. He is a grandson of the great Appius Claudius Caecus. Claudius Nero
is currently the Treasury Quaeastor. He has been noted by the Treasury staff for his slothful
performance in the discharge of his duties and his much discussed hope that he can find a bride
with a large dowry.
CLAUDIA NERONES (late 20’s) – is the sister of Tiberius Claudius Nero and granddaughter of
Appius Claudius Caecus. She is also the Chief Vestal Virgin and only has a few more years of
service left to SPQR. Claudia Nerones is a woman of faith and suppressed desire (lust). She
carries out her responsibilities with skill and diligence. It is said that the wills of Rome have
never been better tended. Under her stewardship there have been no controversies concerning
the Vestal Virgins. Claudia Nerones holds regular soirees with the matrons of Rome in the
Temple of Vesta where she keeps the perpetual flame burning. She is good friends with
Cornelia Scapula, Valeria Equita and Marcia Malleola.
THE CORNELII (Patrician) (Storyteller)
The Cornelii are patricians who are descended from Cornelius, the powerful and mystical
priest of Diana who served under Servius Tullius, Rome’s sixth king. The early Cornelii are
noted for their religious observances, mysticism and prophecy. The gens rose to political
prominence when Servius Cornelius became the first Cornelii consul in 485 BC. From him all
patrician branches of the gens are descended. They include: the Cornelii Scipiones, the
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Cornelii Dolabellae, Cornelii Sullae, Cornelii Lentulii, Cornelii Cinnii. No other gens have
produced as many consuls as the Cornelii.
The Cornelii Scipiones are renowned for their recent support of Roman expansion into Magna
Graecia and for their interest in Hellenistic culture. They are regarded with some concern by
conservative Fabians and their supporters. The Cornelii Scipiones have a very close
relationship with the Aemilii Paullii and their cousins, the Cornelii Scapulii.
GNAEUS CORNELIUS SCIPIO (early 40’s) – is the son of Lucius Cornelius Scipio Barbatus, a hero
of the Third Samnite War and consul of 298 BC. He is the elder brother of Lucius Cornelius
Scipio and the cousin of Marcus Aemilius Paullus. Gnaeus Cornelius Scipio has performed solidly
throughout his career, particularly in the Pyrrhic War. Unusual for a man of his background,
Gnaeus Cornilius Scipio voluntarily served as Naval Quaeastor in the Pyrrhic War and displayed
great initiative in the role. He kept Tarentine raiders from devastating important parts of
SPQR’s coastline. He was prorogued in the role for an additional 2 years. Gnaeus Cornelius
Scipio continues to have an abiding interest in the sea. Now, however, it is more focused on
speedy trade with Magna Graecia.
Gnaeus Cornelius Scipio is an open, charismatic, generous (charitable) and energetic man who
is easy to like, can take a joke and spar verbally with the best. He is noticeably hotheaded and
sometimes rushes into things, loving the element of surprise and the glory of victory (lust).
Gnaeus Cornelius Scipio has been curule aedile and is openly asking people when they think he
should run for consul. He also wants to know who would be a good wife. Consequently, Gnaeus
Cornelius Scipio likes to consult and lead by inclusion, but then having consulted, will often then
just do whatever he pleases. He likes to spend time with his cousin Marcus Aemilius Paullus.
Gnaeus Cornelius Scipio also takes an active interest in his “nephew”, Lucius Cornelius Scapula,
who he thinks needs cheering up with a father like Cornelius Scapula Snr.
LUCIUS CORNELIUS SCIPIO (late 30’s) – is the younger brother of Gnaeus Cornelius Scipio. He
served with notable ability in the Pyrrhic War and in 273 BC was Gaius Fabius Licinus’ Army
Quaeastor. These experiences positioned Lucius Cornelius Scipio to serve as a legate, a role he
had with Gaius Fabius Pictor in his campaign against the Picentines in 269 BC, with Sempronius
Sophus in 268 BC and with Julius Libo and Marcus Atilius Regulus in 267 BC. The 267 BC
campaign against the Salentini was important to Lucius Cornelius Scipio. On it he bonded with
Julius Libo (leader of the Commerce Faction) and the capture of Brundisium made him
significant amounts of money with which he bought large estates cheaply in Magna Graecia.
Lucius Cornelius Scipio was curule aedile in 266 BC. In 265 BC, Lucius Cornelius Scipio is assisting
the censors Gnaeus Cornelius Blasio and Gaius Marcius Rutilius Censorinus carry out their
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mammoth undertaking. He is becoming regarded as something of an organizational wonder by
Rome’s senior elite and somebody everyone wants on their staff – he can make things happen.
Lucius Cornelius Scipio is quieter spoken than his elder brother, and is thoughtful and prudent.
While it takes a great deal to move him to passion, Lucius Cornelius Scipio is a practical man
who does not suffer fools gladly (wrath). A courteous and respectful man, Lucius Cornelius
Scipio is most at ease with his brother Gnaeus Cornelius Scipio and cousin Marcus Amelius
Paullus. When seeking counsel for himself it is noted that Lucius Cornelius Scipio trusts the
words of his “cousin” Lucius Cornelius Scapula Snr. Lucius Cornelius Scipio has not married and
has not indicated he intends to anytime soon.
CORNELII SCAPULII (Patrician) (Thalles)
The Cornelii Scapulii are descended from the Cornelii Scipiones branch of the gens Cornelii.
During the Second Samnite War, a Lucius Cornelius Scipio was a Military Tribune in command
of a legion besieging a town in Samnium. Lucius Cornelius Scipio forced the town's
submission by hanging prisoners from a platform by hooks under their scapula's in full view
and hearing distance of the town. Lucius Cornelius Scipio told a town delegation in ear shot of
the screaming victims that he would do the same to every living person in the town if they
did not surrender and open their granaries to him. The action so horrified the townsfolk they
agreed if they would be spared the gruesome fate. Lucius Cornelius Scipio was cheered by his
legion on the battlefield as Cornelius Scapula. The name stuck. The grain saved the wider
army and Cornelius Scapula went on to win the consulship. Since then, the Cornelii Scapulii
have defined the conflicts they have fought in with ruthless, unwavering determination and
persistence. Their leadership of armies is noted for its autocratic style, something that is
reputably reflected in the Cornelii Scapulii household.
The Cornelii Scapulii have grown wealthy from plunder and successful Roman campaigns.
Consequently, the Cornelii Scapulii have always been a part of the Expansionist Faction in the
Senate. They remain closely aligned with their cousins the Cornelii Scipiones, and the Aemilii
Paullii.
The Cornelii Scapulii estates are relatively new, reflecting their recent separation from the
Cornelii Scipiones, and are located in southern Campania and northern Magna Graecia. The
domus of the Cornelii Scapulii is on the Palatine Hill.
LUCIUS CORNELIUS SCAPULA SNR (mid 40’s) – is the grandson of the first Cornelius Scapula.
His father was killed in battle fighting the Volsinii in 284 BC, before having the chance to run for
the consulship. To preserve the dynasty, Cornelius Scapula Snr married as soon as he could. He
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married Valeria Equita of the Valerian gens and soon had his heirs. His relationship with his wife
is serious and business like.
Cornelius Scapula Snr served with distinction in the Pyrrhic Wars and was awarded a Gold
Crown for his actions at the Battle of Heraclea in 280 BC where he led a rear guard action that
saved a cohort of legionaries (including Marcus Ambrosius Mamercus, who later married his
sister, Cornelia Scapula). He won further phalerae at the Battle of Asculum in 279 BC and a
further gold crown at the Battle of Beneventum in 275 BC.
Cornelius Scapula Snr is universally respected by legionaries. He is a role model and mentor for
many who aspire to be successful at war, particularly his Cornelii Scipiones “cousins” and their
cousin, Marcus Amelius Paullus. He regularly works out on the Campus Martius and gives
instructions in arms to all Romans, regardless of class.
A strict, serious, grounded, no nonsense man, Cornelius Scapula Snr did not pursue his political
career with as much success as he would have liked following the Pyrrhic War. He was simply
too much the authoritarian soldier to be greatly liked by the electorate. He was elected
Quaeastor later than he would have liked, at 34, coming in last on the vote (pride). Cornelius
Scapula Snr has simply lacked the necessary funds to buy himself popularity and openly wants
to “win on his merits” to advance up the cursus honorum.
Improvising, Cornelius Scapula Snr sought funds via war booty and reputation by further
success at war. In 271 ‐ 270 BC he served as a legate in the siege of Rhegium. The Romans
sought to reclaim the city from Mamertine /Campanian rebels that had been sent to garrison
Rhegium during the Pyrrhic War, but had gone rogue. They had taken over the city and deeply
embarrassed Rome. The siege was long and savage and produced little booty. At the end, 300
rebels were captured. With victory, Cornelius Scapula Snr seized his moment and drove the 300
rebels to Rome on behalf of the consul, or so he said. In Rome, Cornelius Scapula Snr advocated
quick justice and had the rebels flogged and beheaded. The ringleaders of the rebellion he hung
by hooks under their scapulas so they could see the flogging and execution of their followers.
Cornelius Scapula Snr then personally cut down and beheaded the ringleaders. The spectacle
stunned Rome and Cornelius Scapula was elected the number one curule aedile in 269 BC.
Cornelius Scapula Snr openly wants to run for consul. But he also concedes to friends he does
not have enough money. He is now thinking of ways to overcome this by either building
overwhelming political support or taking some other action that can bring him into the public
eye. In the meantime, he is focusing a great deal of time on preparing his sons for the
unmitigated brutality of war the Cornelian Scapula way, like his forefather’s did for him – with a
cane (fortitude).
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Lucius Cornelius Scapula Snr is married to Valeria Equita (whose brother he is old war comrades
with). They have four children: 1: Lucius Cornelius Scapula (Thalles) (late teens); 2: Cornelia
(mid teens), 3: Faustus Cornelius Scapula (early teens); and 4: Cornelia Lucia (late childhood).
VALERIA EQUITA (late 30’s) – is the wife of Lucius Cornelius Scapula Snr. She is a dignified
woman of her class, everything a patrician Valerian ought to be. She is faithful, obedient and a
dedicated mother. She has had bouts of great loneliness as her husband will not let her leave
the domus without his permission, which is not unreasonably withheld, but is problematic
when he is away. On the two occasions she has disobeyed him, she was caned on bare buttocks
in front of the whole house staff. Valeria Equita adapted (wrath). Instead, she now entertains,
much to the consternation of her husband who cannot refuse her guests without alienating
that segment of Rome which he needs to woo the most. Valeria Equita says she hosts her
events for him, to improve his image. Valeria Equita loves her children very much and seeks to
give them the love their father’s distance denies (charity).
LUCIUS CORNELIUS SCAPULA (late teens) (Thalles) – is ready to enroll in the legions in 264 BC.
Raised to endure the hardships of soldiering by his father whom he clearly despises (fortitude),
it is expected by those who frequent the Campus Martius that Cornelius Scapula will easily fit
into the lifestyle of a Roman cavalryman – it will be easier than his life at home! What becomes
obvious to those near Cornelius Scapula for any time, however, is that he has a burning,
ruthless drive to not just survive, but to thrive in the face of adversity and rise higher than
anyone in his prestigious lineage (lust).
Cornelius Scapula is close to his “uncle” Gnaeus Cornelius Scipio and his maternal uncle, Titus
Valerius Equitus Snr. Valerius Equitus Snr lets Cornelius Scapula sit in the prestigious Valerian
Box at the Circus Maximus with his cousin, the young Titus Valerius Equitus.
THE FABII (Patrician) (Storyteller)
One of the most ancient patrician gens at Rome, the Fabii trace their origins to Hercules and
the Arcadian Evander. In Republican Rome to date, few other gens have as much
accumulated Auctoritas, Gloria or Dignitas as that of the Fabii. Successive generations of
them have been elected to high office. They represent a constancy of civic duty, conservative
stability and order. The Fabii are increasingly at odds with members of the Claudii, Cornelii
and the Aemilii. The greatest member of the Fabii was Quintus Fabius Maximus Rullianus, a
Roman hero of the Samnite wars of the 3rd century BC who was elected consul 5 times.
The principal branches of the Fabii include: the Fabii Ambustii; the Fabii Buteo; the Fabii
Dorso; the Fabii Labeo; the Fabii Licinus and the very famous Fabii Maximii.
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QUINTUS FABIUS MAXIMUS GURGES – PRINCEPS SENATUS (early 60’s) – is the son of the
great Quintus Fabius Maximus Rullianus. He was consul in 292 BC and 276 BC and is a hero of
the Third Samnite War. After his second consulship, Fabius Maximus Gurges was sent as a
legate to King Ptolemy Philadelphus of Egypt. There he established formal relations with the
Egyptian Kingdom. The personal gifts he brought back from King Ptolemy Philadelphus were
initially placed in the Treasury, but, by decree of the Senate, they were returned to him. The
gifted statues, vases and other works of art now decorate his impressive domus on the Palatine
Hill that overlooks the Forum Romanum. Fabius Maximus Gurges is the current leader of the
Conservative Faction and the Princeps Senatus. He is regarded as a patient (fortitude) but
greedy man (hence the congnomen “gurges”, meaning greedy). He has an abiding dislike for
the Claudians and has made much political capital of Decimus Aurelius Priscus moving to the
Conservative Faction. Fabius Maximus Gurges' son, Quintus Fabius Gurges Jnr, is one of the
consuls of 265 BC.
QUINTUS FABIUS MAXIMUS GURGES JNR (late 30’s) – is the son of the powerful Quintus
Fabius Maximus Gurges, consul 292 BC and 276 BC and grandson of the great Quintus Fabius
Maximus Rullianus. He is one of the current Roman consuls of 265 BC and is currently at war,
putting down a rebellion of the Vulsinii in Etruria. Fabius Maximus Gurges Jnr has broken with
tradition slightly in that he is currently associating with members of the Civic Faction. He is a
temperate but slothful man. Fabius Maximus Gurges Jnr has a son, Quintus Fabius Maximus
Verucossus (mid teens) and a daughter, Fabia Gurges (early teens).
QUINTUS FABIUS MAXIMUS VERUCOSSUS (mid teens) – is the son of Fabius Maximus Gurges
Jnr. Fabius Maximus Verucossus is regarded as a prudent boy with a mighty temper (wrath).
FABIA GURGES (early teens) – is the daughter of Fabius Maximus Gurges Jnr. She is regarded as
a petulant girl whose faith in her family’s position assures her a life of luxury and refinement –
all of which she slothfully enjoys.
GAIUS FABIUS PICTOR – PONTIFEX MAXIMUS (mid 40s) – is the son of a Fabian whose
pastimes included painting, which he was renowned and cognominated for. Hence, “pictor” or
picture. A prominent and influential man, Fabius Pictor always seems somewhat envious of his
cousins, the Fabii Maximii. Fabius Pictor has always had to prove himself in measure equal to
the descendants of Fabius Maximus Rulliananus. He hopes that now, as he reaches the zenith
of his career, he can be seen to stand in the sun.
Fabius Pictor is a shrewd, calculating and cruel man. In the Pyrrhic War, he was in all of the
dangerous trouble spots but escaped with few, if any, wounds – and no one can remember
exactly what he did. His detractors have made out he is cowardly, but Fabius Pictor rejoined
that he is blessed by the gods, a move that played no small part in him being elected Pontifex
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Maximus in 275 BC – particularly when his friend, the celebrated Valerius Equitus Snr supported
his candidacy.
In the Domus Publicus (the state owned mansion provided to the Pontifex Maximus, located in
the Forum, half of which houses the Vestal Virgins), Fabius Pictor has discharged his duties as
Pontifex Maximus appropriately with the aid of the Chief Vestal, Claudia Nerones. Fabius Pictor
was consul in 269 BC. With high office and a full career, Fabius Pictor has developed a knack for
cruelly putting people in their place, usually publicly.
His brother Numerius Fabius Pictor was consul in 266 BC. Fabius Pictor has two children: 1.
Gaius Fabius Pictor (late teens); and Fabia Pictores (mid teens).
GAIUS FABIUS PICTOR (late teens) – is the son of Gaius Fabius Pictor Pontifex Maximus and is
every bit as cruel as his father but prudent in the use of his discretion. A regular bully, Fabius
Pictor picks on those weaker than himself for sport. He and his Bully Boys are a regular feature
on the Campus Martius. The only boy immune to the bullying is Titus Valerius Equitus, on
account of his father being friends with the Pontifex Maximus and occasionally letting Fabius
Pictor into the Valerian Box at the Circus Maximus. Fabius Pictor despises Septimus Salvius Otho
and the Lupercusii Carnii who gave him and his Bully Boy’s a thrashing a few months back.
Fabius Pictor idolizes Cornelius Scapula Snr.
FABIA PICTORES (mid teens) – is the daughter of Gaius Fabius Pictor Pontifex Maximus. Fabia
Pictores is an energetic faithful girl, educated by the vestal virgins. She is envious of the relative
freedom she sees other girls of her class possessing.
THE JULII (Patrician) (Storyteller)
The Julii came to Rome from Alba Longa during the reign of Tullus Hostilius when he resettled
the population of Alba Longa on the Caelian Hill after Alba Longa’s destruction. The Julii
lineage, however, led them to be enrolled in the Senate as patricians. The Julii are descended
from Julus, who was also called Ascanius, who founded Alba Longa. Ascanius/Julus was the
son of the goddess Venus and Anchises. The Julii make much of the fact they are descended
from gods.
Legend has it that the Julii were involved with Rome before moving there after the
destruction of Alba Longa. One such Julian was Proculus Julius, a companion of Romulus.
The Julii have estates near Bovillae and throughout Latium south of the ruins of Alba Longa.
The Julii are regarded as people of good character who work harder than most to keep and
grow their gens’ modest fortunes.
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The cognomens of this gens include: Julus, Libo and Mento (the Caesars are descendants from
Julius Libo).
LUCIUS JULIUS LIBO (late 40’s) – was consul in 267 BC. During his term he fought the Sallentini,
for which he was awarded a triumph on his return to Rome in January 266 BC. He is
entrepreneurial and is the leader of the Commerce Faction. Since that time, Julius Libo has
been organizing a consortium of Senators to gain maximum capital benefit from land purchases
in the newly acquired Magna Graecia. Reportedly, they are making obscene amounts of money.
The profit has been so much that the censors have openly talked about looking into Magna
Graecia land purchases from poor communities devastated by the Pyrrhic War. Fearing the
consequences of such an investigation, Julius Libo is encouraging his friend Lucius Cornelius
Scipio to get the censors to focus on other issues. Just in case, Julius Libo is now dealing with
Carthaginians to set up new trade contacts in Sicily, Spain and North Africa.
Julius Libo has become close to Lucius Cornelius Scipio since their campaigning together and
quite likes Marcus Aemilus Paullus whose shewd investment advice he takes heed of. He is
close friends with Marcus Atilius Regulus, his consular colleague in 267 BC. Julius Libo has spent
some time mentoring his orphaned nephew Caecilius Metellus.
Julius Libo is married to Caecilia Metella Macedonica, daughter of Barcine of Macedonia, sister
of Caecilius Metellus Denter and aunt of Caecilius Metellus. Julius Libo and Caecilia Metella
Macedoinica have 3 children: 1: Lucius Julius Libo Jnr (late teens); 2: Julia (late teens); and 3:
Jula (mid teens).
CAECILIA METELLA MACEDONICA (mid 40’s) – is the daughter Quintus Caecilius and Barcine of
Macedonia (a refugee Antigonid princess), she is also the doting aunt of Caecilius Metellus.
Caecilia Metella Macedonica, being the daughter of a Greek princess is proud of her heritage.
She is a focal point for panhellenists in Rome and often entertains them (charity). Her
detractors are outraged by the parties at which everyone speaks Greek and dresses as
Olympian gods and goddesses. Caecilia Metella Macedonica and Marcia Malleola are often at
odds with each other.
LUCIUS JULIUS LIBO JNR (late teens) – is the son of Julius Libo and Caecilia Metella
Macedonica. He is a clever, shrewd and temperate young man. He is equally interested in
scholastics and commerce, politics and war. He is fluent in Greek and Punic. He has a lustful
weakness for women, which many agree is his outlet for the strict self‐imposed discipline of the
rest of his personality. Julius Libo Jnr’s weakness is aided by the fact that he is very good
looking.
JULIA (late teens) – as beautiful as her brother is handsome, guests of the Julians agree that the
night grows dimmer when Julia retires. Educated by her mother, Julia has been held off on
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marriage because her father is very fussy about who should wed his special daughter. Julia is
charitable but is overly proud of her accomplishments – she has been known to contradict
men, to her father’s embarrassment and the delight of his other guests.
JULA (mid teens) – is a rebellious counterpoint to her sister. She is a hopeful, romantic girl who
lusts for release from the bonds of her current situation.
THE LUPERCUSII CARNII (Plebeian) (Storyteller)
The Lupercusii Carnii are a powerful family that hails from Praeneste in Latium. The family’s
Latin origins are attested to in early Roman texts where the family features as part of the
founding legends of Rome. The Lupercusii are said to have actually seen Romulus and Remus
suckled by the great she wolf and took their name as proof of their witness. It is said that not
long after the founding of Rome and the death of Remus, the Lupercusii Carnii left Rome and
settled in Praeneste so as to guard the approaches to the young city.
With Roman expansion and the resolution of the Conflict of the Orders, the Lupercusii Carnii
were one of the first plebeian families to rise to high office. They actively seek to preserve
Roman traditions, particularly the cult worship of Quirinus. Having resided for a long time on
the old “Roman frontier”, the Lupercusii Carnii are well connected with the Italian Allies and
the Apennine Tribes, particularly the Samnites. Coincidentally, the Lupercusii Carnii have
always played a facilitation/mediation role in each successful negotiation between the
Romans and the Samnites.
The Lupercusii Carnii’s Roman domus is located on one of the oldest parts of the Palatine Hill
looking down onto the forum and across to the Capitoline Hill.
QUINTUS LUPERCUSIUS CARNIUS SNR (early 50’s) – is a man who is trying to win the
consulship. An unsuccessful candidate in 466 BC and 465 BC, Quintus Lupercusius Carnius Snr is
a man known for his great reputation on the battlefield, not his forum oratory. A strong willed
leader, Lupercusius Carnius Snr does not like being contradicted (wrath).
His battlefield prowess came to light in his youth when he served in the Third Samnite War.
Lupercusius Carnius Snr has fought in close to two dozen campaigns, far more than many of his
contemporaries. His plebeian standing has held him back, as has his close association with
Italian allies, who revere him as a legate when he leads them. As Tribune of the Plebs,
Lupercusius Carnius Snr sought to pass legislation granting Roman citizenship to certain long
standing allied Apennine Mountain towns. He was vetoed by a fellow Tribune. As Quaeastor he
served with distinction in the army and as Curule Plebeian he again sought to pass his
citizenship bill, and was again vetoed.
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Lupercusius Carnius Snr advocated for his citizenship bill in his consular campaign for 265 BC
where he said it would make Rome safer – the people whose citizenship he seeks are a bulwark
to approaching the city. Lupercusius Carnius Snr’s detractors pointed out that Rome is master
of Italy. Lupercusius Carnius Snr replied by telling people to look north to the Etruscans and
Gauls and north east, to the untamed Umbrians – commentary that seems prescient now that
265 BC’s senior consul Fabius Maximus Gurges Jnr is fighting rebellious Etruscans and using
these same towns as depots for his supply lines.
Lupercusius Carnius Snr is showing his political fortitude by preparing for another tilt at the
consulship, again applying his family’s vast fortune to the undertaking. He is now trying to build
support amongst the more powerful Senatorial families with a view to having them recommend
him to their clients among the Comitia Centuriata. Lupercusius Carnius Snr has won the support
of his distant kinsman and fellow Praeneste land owner, Lucius Caecilius Metellus, who is now
advocating for him. All things being equal, Lupercusius Carnius Snr looks like a real contender
this year for the election of 264 BC.
Lupercusius Carnius Snr is married to Salvia Otho. They have a happy marriage and six children:
1. Lupercusia (mid 20’s) is married to her mother’s cousin, Septimus Salvius Otho (mid 20’s), 2.
Quintus Lupercusius Carnius (mid 20’s); 3. Lucius Lupercusius Carnius (early 20’s); 4. Publius
Lupercusius Carnius (late teens); 5. Carnia (late teens); 6. Lupercusia Minora (mid teens).
SALVIA OTHO (mid 40’s) – is the daughter of an Etrurian noble family that are clients of the
Lupercusii Carnii. They prospered greatly by siding with Rome in the Third Samnite War and
were rewarded with citizenship and a great deal of land. Salvia Otho is a spiritual woman of
faith, but who, like all her family, has a fiery temper (wrath).
SEPTIMUS SALVIUS OTHO (mid 20’s) – is an East Etruscan nobleman with Roman citizenship
who has recently moved to Rome and enrolled in this year’s census – he has been given equites
status. He is married to Lupercusia Carnia and has several young children. Septimus Otho has
voiced an intention to have a public career and intends on enlisting in the legions next year. He
has previously served in Roman Ala.
On the Campus Martius Salvius Otho has been picked on by the young Fabius Pictor and his
Bully Boys for being a “jumped up Italian who doesn’t know his place, but soon will”. Salvius
Otho wrathfully took vengeance. He gave a thrashing to six of the young men by himself, broke
several of their bones and knocked out some teeth. He gave the young Fabius Pictor a fabulous
black eye. He is now despised by the Fabii Pictores and the Bully Boys have vowed to have
revenge.
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Salvius Otho comes from an old community of charioteers and has declared he will be entering
this year’s October Horse race. He jokingly says his faith in the gods and “the old ways” give him
all the advantage he needs.
QUINTUS LUPERCUSIUS CARNIUS (mid 20’s) – is a brave man who has enlisted in the legions
eight years in a row. He has a reputation for thinking before acting (prudence) but has been
known to have a berserker battle lust when in the middle of a melee (wrath). He is now
planning to run for Military Tribune.
LUCIUS LUPERCUSIUS CARNIUS (early 20’s) – is an out and out hothead (wrath). Quick to
temper and brooding when he has calmed down, Lucius Lupercusius Carnius is unpredictable,
but always extreme. He is a fighter who fights to win and will get as dirty as he needs to. When
people ask him his long term ambitions, Lucius Lupercusius Carnius replies that if he had his
way he would be “home and hunting”.
PUBLIUS LUPERCUSIUS CARNIUS (late teens) – is turning into the family intellectual. Unlike his
siblings, Publius Lupercusius Carnius has spent considerable time in their Roman domus and
paid attention to his pedagogue (temperance). He can read and write very well, do arithmetic
and is fluent in Greek and Punic. Like everyone in his family, Publius Lupercusius Carnius seems
naturally good at soldiering, but has a temper with those who cannot physically or mentally
keep up with him (wrath). He is planning to enlist in the legions in 264 BC. He has openly talked
about having a public career and is looking about for a wife. In this respect, he is hoping his
father wins the consulship to improve his chances of a good match.
MARCII MALLEOLII (Patrician) (Dave)
The Marcii Malleolii are of Sabine origin. They are descended from Rome’s fourth king, the
great Ancus Marcius, and are regarded as “patrician patricians”. The Marcii Malleolii are
genuine Republican royalty. King Ancus Marcius’ legacy was a formidable one. Ancus Marcius’
mother was Pompilia and thus he was also the grandson of Rome’s second king, Numa
Pompilius. Ancus Marcius celebrated triumphs against Sabine and Latin tribes and expanded
Roman territory. He founded the port of Ostia and dedicated temples to Jupiter. The Marcii
Malleolii have emulated their ancestor’s policies of Roman expansion, public works and
dedication to the gods.
MANIUS MARCIUS MALLEOLUS SNR (mid 40’s) – is a well respected man whose public career
has been limited by the disabling injuries he sustained at the Battle of Asculum in 279 BC – a
Greek spear went through his left knee, leading to the loss of his leg. The injury requires him to
use crutches with the assistance of a slave, or to move and travel in a litter – which he regards
as womanly and demeaning (pride). His injury also makes wearing a toga properly difficult.
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Having decided not to run for office, Marcius Malleolus Snr was co‐opted by the censors and
enrolled in the Senate – a measure of respect for his sacrifice to the Republic. Because of his
embarrassment of his disability, Marcius Malleolus Snr is always one of the first Senators to
arrive so that he can be settled without any loss of dignitas. Likewise he is always one of the
last senators to leave the Senate. A Senate decree has also been made that he is to be the first
of the “back bencher” senators to talk and that he can do so from a sitting position.
Marcius Malleolus Snr has become a formidable back room power broker. He is unswervingly
dedicated to preserving Rome’s mos maiorum, a task which he hopes he will be successful at.
He lends support to those he can by gaining for them the support of the Conservative Faction to
which he belongs. One of these candidates is his friend and brother‐in‐law Ambrosius
Mamercus whom Marcius Malleolus Snr is often heard telling he should run for office for the
good of the Republic.
Marcius Malleolus Snr’s other great interest is money, which he sees as the muscle of power.
He likes to accumulate it and so has been known to spend some time talking with Commerce
Faction senators. Marcius Malleolus Snr is thought to be a silent partner in a number of
overseas mercantile ventures.
Marcius Malleolus Snr is married to Ambrosia Mamerca and they have five children: 1. Marcia
(late teens) is married to the powerful Marcus Atilius Regulus (consul 267 BC); 2. Manius
Marcius Malleolus (late teens); 3. Lucius Marcius Malleolus (mid teens); 4. Decimus Marcius
Malleolus (early); and 5. Mania (late childhood teens).
Marcius Malleolus Snr’s oldest sister, Marcia Malleola, is married to Titus Valerius Equitus Snr.
AMBROSIA MAMERCA (early 40’s) – is the sister of Ambrosius Mamercus. Initially honoured by
such a prestigious marriage, Ambrosia Mamerca did not cope well with her husband’s injury
and his choice not to pursue a public career. The decision ended Ambrosia Mamerca’s dream of
being a consular’s wife and hosting the Bona Dea ritual (envy). Ambrosia Mamerca resigned
herself to her situation and focused on having children, one of whom she hopes will be a
consul.
MANIUS MARCIUS MALLEOLUS (late teens) (Dave) – is ready to begin his public career. He has
watched his father cope with the consequences of battle and is ready to face the test himself
(fortitude). Marcius Malleolus seems assured of a promising career as much of the
Conservative Faction is behind him. Recently, Marcius Malleolus has had several feminine
distractions – he cannot seem to keep himself in his toga (lust). It is rumored he may be having
an affair with a Senator’s wife, or worse, one of their daughters...
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PETRONII MAXIMII (Plebeian) (Matt)
The Petronii are of Sabine origin. The first member of the gens to live and work in Rome was
Petronius Sabinus who lived during the reign of the Roman king, Tarquinius Superbus. The
Petronii remained for a long time members of the lower classes and lived in the Roman
Subura. The Petronii Maximii emerged after the First Samnite war when Tiberius Petronius
returned from the campaign having acquired enough money to buy some land. The land he
bought was poor quality but contained some salt flats which he turned into a salt mine. The
money Tiberius Petronius soon made led to him being cognominated Maximus. Tiberius
Petronius Maximus soon expanded his land holdings and reinvested his wealth. By the end of
his life Tiberius Petronius Maximus was a successful member of the First Class and had pulled
up the rest of his gens through sensible business loans and small scale investments. The
Petronii Maximii knack for wealth creation continued and the next generation learnt the
value of those small loans. A generation later and the Petronii Maximii were successful
bankers secured by diversified agricultural investments.
By 265 BC the Petronii Maximii are an established equestrian family, fabulously wealthy and
have amongst their clientele other banking families whom they underwrite. It is widely
believed that the young head of the family will decide to enter the Senate.
The Petronii Maximii have an extensive, palatial domus on the Caelian Hill.
STRATHOCLES (late 50’s) – is the Head House Slave of the Petronii Maximii. A scribe and
accountant by profession, Strathocles was an Athenian whose family fell on hard times. To save
his family, he sold himself into slavery in his late teenage years (charity). Traded to Napoli in
Magna Graecia in his early 20's, Strathocles was again sold in his mid 30's as Rome established a
new order in the area. This time he was bought by the entrepreneurial Petronii Maximii to help
account for business interests in Magna Graecia. Strathocles showed his aptitude and value,
learning Latin and making the Petronii Maximii vast sums of money via information trading, cost
cutting in ventures and productivity gains. For the last 25 years he has served the family
faithfully and cared for the family's fortune during the "young master’s" formative years. Now
the young master, Tiberius Petronius Maximus, is in charge of the family.
Feeling his work is complete; Strathocles has approached his master seeking to buy his freedom
with the allowance he has been saving since he was made a slave (greed). Strathocles says he
just wants to find himself a little country villa and enjoy his remaining years. As yet, the young
master has not answered his faithful servant’s plea.
OCTAVIA VELLITRA (of the Octavii of Vellitrae) (early 40’s) – is from an old and wealthy Alba
Longa farming family that settled in the township of Vellitrae after the destruction of Alba
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Longa. Although the Octavian family is not highly distinguished, the marriage was a step up for
Tiberius Petronius Maximus Snr. Octavia Vellitra has certainly enjoyed the wealth and
opportunity of living in Rome that the marriage provided for her (gluttony).
Upset at the loss of her husband at the Battle of Beneventum in 275 BC during the Pyrrhic War,
as well as the lost potential for personal self advancement with it, Octavia Vellitra has been a
forceful influence in preparing her children for a public career in the Senate. She feels the
family wealth entitles them to no less. Octavia Vellitra has learned that money in Rome can
make things happen (prudent) – and she has the whole Petronii Maximii fortune at her
disposal.
Octavia Vellitra was married to Tiberius Petronius Maximus Snr. They had three children: 1.
Tiberius Petronius Maximus (late teens); 2. Decimus Petronius Maximus (mid teens); and 3.
Servius Petronius Maximus (early teens).
TIBERIUS PETRONIUS MAXIMUS (late teens) (Matt) – is a promising young man who the
establishment clearly see as a likely novus homo (new man) because of his family’s relatively
new and immense wealth. This has affected the way Petronius Maximus’ peers see him and has
meant he has had to continually prove himself growing up (fortitude). This may have been
easier for Petronius Maximus if his father had lived. Petronius Maximus’ father clearly had
political ambitions and could have paved the way. His early demise has meant the animosity
felt for him has been transferred to his son, even before his son has had a chance to find his
feet and show his mettle. Despite these challenges, Petronius Maximus has had a first rate
education. He has been tutored by the family’s remarkably capable Head House Slave,
Strathocles, and by specialist tutors purchased by his mother.
Now a man, Tiberius Petronius Maximus has taken charge of his family’s commercial banking
empire (greed) and is preparing himself for a public career. He intends to enlist in the legions in
264 BC. Forum watchers have been seen following him about the Campus Martius and the
financial districts to get a look at the man who now has one of Rome’s largest fortunes at his
disposal.
THE VALERII
The Valerii are one of Rome’s most distinguished gens. They are of Sabine origin and are
descended from Volesus, who came to Rome in the early days of the Kings and joined the
patricians in the early days of the Senate of 100. Since that time, the Valerii gens has been at
the forefront of social reform in Rome and have been instrumental in advancing the status
and rights of plebeians. Consequently, the Valerii are accorded great dignitas and have been
given various rights in Rome that include: having houses whose doors are allowed to open
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out into the street; having a dedicated gens “box” at the Circus Maximus with premium views
of the Circus; the Valerian Box has thrones for the heads of the Valerii families and plenty of
room for family members and special guests; the right to bury their dead within the walls of
Rome and forego cremation.
The Valerii have branched into various houses, all of whom are descended from the illustrious
cofounder of the Republic, Publius Valerius Poplicola, one of the first consuls elected in 509
BC. The Valerii Poplicolii, Valerii Poititii and Valerii Volesii are the primary families of the
gens, from whom have come in the 4th century BC the families of: the Valerii Corvinii from the
Valerii Volesii; the Valerii Flaccii from the Valerii Poititii and the Valerii Equitii from the Valerii
Poplicolii.
The Valerii make regular use of their plebeian clients, the Otacilii Crassii.
MANIUS VALERIUS MAXIMUS CORVINUS (mid 40’s) – is descended from the legendary Marcus
Valerius Corvus who defeated a giant Gaul in single combat (with the timely aid of a raven that
distracted the gaul, thus the cognomen “corvinus” which means raven) and was elected consul
several times as well as being made dictator. Valerius Maximus embodies his ancestor’s spirit
and is a brave and daring solider.
In the Pyrrhic War Valerius Maximus displayed great initiative, was a great cavalry commander
and displayed technique at engineering. He has been elected curule aedile and now clearly has
his eye on the consulship. Valerius Maximus is a faithful man, diligent in his offerings to the
gods. He is, however, desperate to prove himself equal to his ancestor and bring glory to
himself (gluttony). He is also keen to find a suitable match for his eldest daughter who has
come of age.
Valerius Maximus has three children: 1. Valeria Corvina (mid teens) 2. Manius Valerius
Maximus Corvinus Jnr (early teens); 3. Marcus Valerius Maximus Corvinus (mid childhood).
LUCIUS VALERIUS FLACCUS (late 30’s) – is descended from the Valerii Poititii. A traditional
aristocrat, Valerius Flaccus (meaning torpid) would rather leave the details to someone else
(sloth). He is big on giving directions and holding his underlings to account if they fail him
(prudent). Valerius Flaccus served in the later part of the Pyrrhic War, but took part in no
combat of note. Valerius Flaccus has two children: 1. Valeria Flacca (early teens); and 2. Lucius
Valerius Flaccus (mid childhood).
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THE VALERII EQUITII (Patrician) (Jake)
The Valerii Equitii branch of the gens Valerii came to prominence in its own right when Lucius
Valerius Poplicola, the younger son of the consul (and Pontifex Maximus) of 475 BC and 460
BC, won the October Horse chariot race 6 years in a row and was named Lucius Valerius
Poplicola Equitus. Thenceforth his descendants were the Valerii Equitii and count among their
number two further consuls. This prominent family continues to regularly compete in the
October Horse race, often winning. Considered truly blessed by the gods and a safe guard
against evil omens, the Valerii Equitii are often co‐opted as priests and augurs.
TITUS VALERIUS EQUITUS SNR (mid 40’s) – is a man addicted to the blues’ racing colors. A
prominent charioteer in his youth, he followed the family tradition and won the October Horse
race in 282 BC and placed in 281 BC before serving in the Pyrrhic War in 280 BC. In Rome,
Valerius Equitus Snr was a celebrity. He had his choice of women (lust) and brides, marrying
Marcia Malleola. Together, Valerius Equitus Snr and Marcia Malleola were the “it” couple. The
College of Pontiffs recognized the favour of the gods and co‐opted Valerius Equitus Snr to join
them. He is, oddly, friends with the Pontifex Maximus Gaius Fabius Pictor. The two friends are
often seen outside the Domus Publicus (residence of the Pontifex Maximus) or on the Capitol
Hill, deep in discussion, laughing, or tracking the flight of birds across Rome.
The Battle of Heraclea in 280 BC changed Valerius Equitus Snr. He served in the cavalry that was
making headway against Pyrrhus’ flank when it was charged and broken by Pyrrhic war
elephants. Valerius Equitus Snr lost his prize horse to one of the strange beasts whose tusks
impaled it. Valerius Equitus Snr was thrown clear. In the confusion he mounted another rider‐
less horse and fought his way free as Thracian cavalry completed the breaking of the Roman
flank. He lost his second horse at the Siris River and only made it across by shedding arms and
armor. The experience created in Valerius Equitus Snr a strong desire not to overextend into
vulnerability (temperance).
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their fortunes prospered, their friendship and love of travel grew. In 270 BC Valerius Equitus Snr
released Apollonius Quadratus Snr from his clientele and said the Apollonii Quadratii would
have Valerian support should his family seek entry into the Senate and a public career.
Valerius Equitus Snr bought the land near the Siris River where he lost his second horse at the
Battle of Heraclea. There he built a temple to Mars the Avenger. Within easy walking distance
of the temple he built the opulent and prestigious Siris River Villa on which he now breeds fine
horses. The decade since the end of the Pyrrhic War has seen the Valerii Equitii fortune grow
and grow, in large part because of the commercial alliance with Apollonii Quadratii.
Gaius Fabius Pictor is now openly pressuring his friend to re‐enter politics later in life and take
the mantle of the consulship that his blood entitles him to. Having secured the financial security
of his family for generations to come, Valerius Equitus Snr is seriously thinking about it.
Valerius Equitus Snr has a sister, Valeria Equita, who is married to Lucius Cornelius Scapula Snr,
whom he is friends with on account of their military service together. Valerius Equitus Snr
enjoys taking his nephew Lucius Cornelius Scapula, along with his own son, to the Circus
Maximus where he is cheered by the crowd when he enters the Valerian Box.
Valerius Equitus Snr married Marcia Malleola, they have three children: 1. Titus Valerius
Equitus (Jake) (late teens); 2. Valeria (mid teens); 3. Marcus Valerius Equitus (mid teens).
MARCIA MALLEOLA (early 40’s) – is the most beautiful woman of her generation. A bubbly,
high spirited and happy woman, she enjoys the celebrity of being her husband’s wife – and has
done so since the “race days”. In more recent years, Marcia Malleola has enjoyed her
husband’s wealth and the unrestrained budget afforded to her. Appreciating the change that
occurred in her husband while serving in the Pyrrhic War, Marcia Malleola has done everything
she can to make him content while at home – even agreeing to spending part of each year at
the Siris River Villa (charity). While in Rome, however, Marcia Malleola is a popular entertainer
and socialite. There is almost no Roman matron who would not invite her to a significant event.
One thing that stands out about Marcia Malleola, however, is that she does not like the
philhellenism of some of her contemporaries. Following the absorption of Magna Graecia, most
noble houses in Rome now have several Greek slaves. This has led to women in several noble
houses trying Greek dress styles recommended to them by new Greek seamstresses. Marcia
Malleola despises this and has deliberately set up “Roman” counter trends in women’s fashion
– being a patrician Marcii Malleolii married to a celebrity Valerian has its uses! While a nothing
in the world of men, the fashion controversy has polarized the more conservative women from
the philhellenistic ones and the slaves tell tales of Greek seamstresses cussing the name Marcia
Malleola.
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The source of Marcia Malleola’s dislike of philhellenism is her brother’s (Manius Marcus
Malleolus Snr) injuries sustained in the Pyrrhic War and the personal dignitas cost to him, which
she feels reflects upon her gens (wrath).
Marcia Malleola does not like her husband’s friend Fabius Pictor – Pontifex Maximus. She is
uncomfortable with the he looks at her and that he pays her too many courtesy visits when her
husband is away to make sure she and the children are fine. She tolerates him, for her
husband’s sake. She is, however, happy that Fabius Pictor – Pontifex Maximus is encouraging
her husband to re‐enter politics with consular ambitions. They agree on that one thing.
TITUS VALERIUS EQUITUS (late teens) (Jake) – is ready to follow in his father’s and ancestor’s
footsteps by racing in the 265 BC October Horse race (on in two weeks!) (pride). Valerius
Equitus is considered a rookie challenger for the title, although punters note he has spent the
better part of the year on his family’s Siris River Villa estates training with his chariot team. Now
back in Rome, the frequenters of the Circus Maximus are excited that a Valerian will again be in
a chariot wearing blue this October. To his peers, Valerius Equitus appears like what anyone of
Valerian and Marcian descent looks like – a future rival for the high offices of state. For Titus
Valerius Equitus, his faith in the gods will see him through.
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