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Other Games, Development, & Campaigns => Play by Post Games => Topic started by: Bedrockbrendan on January 19, 2012, 11:50:05 AM

Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on January 19, 2012, 11:50:05 AM
Everyone has arrived at Carrus's house to discuss the details of your mission to Mauretania. It is early and the sun is just starting to temper the evening chill as the new members of Servants of Gaius hold their first meeting.

(if anyone needs refresher on details or wants me to repost any of the letters let me know and I will do so).
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Benoist on January 19, 2012, 08:03:48 PM
Lucius Calpurnius Piso looks at each one of his companions with mixed feelings of respect and caution. He feels privileged to stand in such company and to have been granted this mission by Claudius and his Divine nephew. And yet... there is this doubt in the back of his mind, as though he might be the victim of a very elaborate joke on the Emperor's part destined to ridicule his name once again.

Calm down, Lucius. Concentrate on the task at hand.

Lucius sighs, inhales the fresh morning air. He adresses a silent prayer to Janus as they are about to step forward in their new lives in the service of the Princeps and asks : "Well. How shall we go about this task, my friends?"
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Nicephorus on January 23, 2012, 10:26:05 PM
Gaia smiles genuinely at Lucius' show of camaraderie instead of just starting in with orders.
 
"Well, before you arrived, Carus and I had discussed the idea that merchants come and go without much notice. And the best way to act as merchants is to be merchants. We can hire a ship and fill it with cargo to sell. And it is easy enough to disguise soldiers as guards. But we need a reason for a noble personage to be traveling to Africa without it looking suspicious. "
 
"Carus and I can handle the mundane details while you two work your connections before we leave. I'm afraid that there won't be room for all of your households, no more than a couple of slaves each so you'll have to make do."
 
"That's about all we've worked out so far. I can contact a friend of a friend when we get there to get the lay of the land. Beyond that, things are rather unformed."
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on January 24, 2012, 08:08:48 AM
Quintus nods at the suggestions given and says, "I have recruited two soldiers who are veterans and good men. They will be told only that we are guards, of course, and I will pay them well out of my own funds. Other than the soldiers, I will only be bringing along my slave Theo. I can also obtain arms for my men and I that will be more in line with the guards of a wealthy merchant."
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on January 24, 2012, 12:15:02 PM
Can everyone make a Detect Roll TN 10.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Benoist on January 24, 2012, 02:30:04 PM
OOC: Detect roll failed. (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/3342837/)
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Nicephorus on January 24, 2012, 02:47:47 PM
failed roll
detection roll (1d10=5) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/3342864/)
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on January 28, 2012, 10:23:31 AM
Okay. You both thought you may have heard something but it turned out to be little more than a rat scurrying across the floor.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on January 30, 2012, 09:48:53 AM
ooc: My printed rules are at home, how do I make a detect roll? Sorry, the weekend was very busy for me, bought a new (to me) car.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Benoist on January 30, 2012, 12:25:49 PM
OOC: Look at your Detect rating under your Mental skills. If you have no dots, roll 2d10 and take the worse of the two roll results. One dot, roll 1d10. Two dots, roll 2d10 and take the best result of the two dice. And so on.

Lucius reports his attention on Gaia's words once he dismisses the sound he thought he had heard: "This sounds like a good plan to me. I could pretext a sudden illness, and request a leave from the Senate to seek warmer climates, on the advice of my doctors. This would give me an excuse to travel for a time without having my family around. I could even ask to be welcome in the Province officially, given my rank. What do you think?"
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on January 30, 2012, 12:45:13 PM
Quote from: Benoist;510485OOC: Look at your Detect rating under your Mental skills. If you have no dots, roll 2d10 and take the worse of the two roll results. One dot, roll 1d10. Two dots, roll 2d10 and take the best result of the two dice. And so on.


ooc: Thanks Benny. My char sheet is at home so as soon as I get there I'll try to remember to update here. I need to write out a digital stat block for him like i have for my other chars.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: skofflox on February 01, 2012, 03:08:54 AM
Quote from: BedrockBrendan;508585Can everyone make a Detect Roll TN 10.
http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/3353476/
rolled a 7 & 8...

Nodding to the others as the plan takes shape..." I am sure I can arrange the details. I may even make a bit on this 'mission' !" as I raise an eyebrow and grin.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Nicephorus on February 01, 2012, 09:39:15 AM
Gaia nods to Lucius.  "That sounds like a good idea.  If you're not trying to hide, you'll be less suspicious and our actions will be less hindered. "
 
Gaia looks around at everyone.  "What next?  I believe Carus can see to renting a ship.  I can help him purchase trade goods.  I will also explore an auspicious day for leaving in the near future."
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on February 01, 2012, 02:27:50 PM
ooc: Crap, forgot. Sorry, have a test in Biology I've been stressing about.

detect roll: 2 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/3354113/)
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on February 01, 2012, 02:48:22 PM
Still just a rat.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Benoist on February 02, 2012, 06:03:56 PM
Quote from: Nicephorus;511204Gaia nods to Lucius.  "That sounds like a good idea.  If you're not trying to hide, you'll be less suspicious and our actions will be less hindered. "
 
Gaia looks around at everyone.  "What next?  I believe Carus can see to renting a ship.  I can help him purchase trade goods.  I will also explore an auspicious day for leaving in the near future."
"I will tend to my family, request my leave from the Senate and could gather some information about the local administration officials, maybe? We could use some information about Mauretania before actually landing there, don't you think?"
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: skofflox on February 04, 2012, 11:38:28 PM
Tenting my fingers as I give a slight nod.
"Excelent point Lucius. I will gather what information I can from some trade contacts regarding Mauretania. It would be wise to have an idea of the local situation before we sail!".

"Has the funding arrived for this task?"
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Benoist on February 06, 2012, 04:53:45 PM
Lucius speaks by reflex. He is used to be the one talking in a gathering like this. "I have no idea."

He instinctively looks towards Carrus, expecting him to have the answer to this question.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: skofflox on February 11, 2012, 05:19:03 PM
Quote from: Benoist;512792Lucius speaks by reflex. He is used to be the one talking in a gathering like this. "I have no idea."

He instinctively looks towards Carrus, expecting him to have the answer to this question.

I, in turn, glance towards Quintus arching an eyebrow ..." Any progress on the funding ?"
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on February 15, 2012, 02:08:25 PM
Quintus nods and smiles, "The funds have been delivered, more than our divine Imperator promised. Our guards are arranged as well. I will take my leave to acquire equipment for them and for myself, which I will pay for out of my own money, that we may preserve our funds for the enterprise. I will send my man to you once I and our guards are outfitted. I suggest it is then that we gather and acquire all that we need for both our trip and our business venture. It is my opinion that we begin acting and speaking in a manner consistent with our mercantile venture from this very moment onward, and behave in every way in accord with how any other newly begun venture would. This means I and my guards will accompany any who will be carrying the funds and gathering the goods and equipment we will need, to discourage unsavory elements and to display our seriousness and intent. The further details I leave to you all."

Quintus nods to Theo and bids the group farewell as he heads for the exit.

"Theo, please gather our soldiers and bring them to the house. I will head straight there and see you all when you arrive."
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on February 16, 2012, 05:37:48 AM
Quote from: Sigmund;514708Quintus nods and smiles, "The funds have been delivered, more than our divine Imperator promised as well. Our guards are arranged as well. I will take my leave to acquire equipment for they and myself, which I will pay for that we may preserve our funds for the enterprise. I will send my man to you once I and our guards are outfitted. I suggest it is then that we gather and acquire all that we need for both our trip and our business venture. It is my opinion that we begin acting and speaking in a manner consistent with our mercantile venture from this very moment onward, and behave in every way in accord with how any other newly begun venture would. This means I and my guards will accompany any who will be carrying the funds and gathering the goods and equipment we will need, to discourage unsavory elements and to display our seriousness and intent. The further details I leave to you all."

Quintus nods to Theo and bids the group farewell as he heads for the exit.

"Theo, please gather our soldiers and bring them to the house. I will head straight there and see you all when you arrive."

Sounds good. Use the equipment list to show me your purchases and we can post them up here for people to see so they know what supplies the party has.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on February 16, 2012, 08:57:24 AM
Quote from: BedrockBrendan;514867Sounds good. Use the equipment list to show me your purchases and we can post them up here for people to see so they know what supplies the party has.

For the men I will obtain a mace, a plain pugio, a parma and a suit of leather armor for each, no helmets. For myself I will obtain a plain Gladius, pugio, lorica hamata, parma, and a plain helmet. I will ensure that all these items, although plain, are of good quality. By my calculations it adds up to 590 d using out of the book prices. If there's an adjustment for short notice (I can pay off a gladiator supplier if I have to) I can cover it as well I'm sure.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on February 16, 2012, 09:01:52 AM
Quote from: Sigmund;514883For the men I will obtain a mace, a plain pugio, a parma and a suit of leather armor for each, no helmets. For myself I will obtain a plain Gladius, pugio, lorica hamata, parma, and a plain helmet. I will ensure that all these items, although plain, are of good quality.

Just to be clear, how many of each item?
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on February 16, 2012, 09:04:07 AM
Quote from: BedrockBrendan;514885Just to be clear, how many of each item?

I have 2 men, plus myself, so the tally will be:

2 maces
3 pugios
3 parmas
2 suits of leather armor
1 gladius
1 suit of lorica hamata
1 plain helmet
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on February 16, 2012, 09:46:32 AM
Quote from: Sigmund;514887I have 2 men, plus myself, so the tally will be:

2 maces
3 pugios
3 parmas
2 suits of leather armor
1 gladius
1 suit of lorica hamata
1 plain helmet

That comes to 590 Denarii. Just a bit over what you have, but you can probably get the money from Claudius if you need more for supplies and travel.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on February 16, 2012, 10:12:02 AM
Quote from: BedrockBrendan;514896That comes to 590 Denarii. Just a bit over what you have, but you can probably get the money from Claudius if you need more for supplies and travel.

I'm not paying for it out of the money given to us, I'm paying for it out of my own pocket.

Edit: so 590 denarii would equal 2360 sestertius correct? I have over 500k ses... I'm thinking I can cover it.

In fact, I would leave our mission funds with one of the others when I leave them.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on February 16, 2012, 10:18:03 AM
Quote from: Sigmund;514904I'm not paying for it out of the money given to us, I'm paying for it out of my own pocket.

Oh, that is entirely different then. Okay the total comes to 590, unless you intend to acquire any of them in ways that would reduce the cost (deception, theft, etc).
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on February 16, 2012, 10:20:52 AM
Quote from: BedrockBrendan;514908Oh, that is entirely different then. Okay the total comes to 590, unless you intend to acquire any of them in ways that would reduce the cost (deception, theft, etc).

Nope, I'll just acquire them in a timely fashion and pay the 590 d (or 2360 s)

Edit: char sheet updated to reflect the expense.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on February 16, 2012, 10:26:34 AM
Quote from: Sigmund;514909Nope, I'll just acquire them in a timely fashion and pay the 590 d (or 2360 s)

Edit: char sheet updated to reflect the expense.

Great. It takes you just a couple of hours to obtain all the items and transport them home.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Benoist on February 16, 2012, 01:55:13 PM
Lucius looks at the others as soon as Quintus left: "Any additional topic you'd want to discuss? If not, I shall take my leave and make my own preparations, gather some information and so on before we leave."
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Nicephorus on February 17, 2012, 08:01:31 PM
Gaia shrugs "I can't think of anything at the moment.  Carus and I can see to buying trade goods and I'm sure he can find a ship.  We'll have time to discuss details on the voyage if something comes up."
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on February 18, 2012, 03:39:49 AM
Quote from: Nicephorus;515202Gaia shrugs "I can't think of anything at the moment.  Carus and I can see to buying trade goods and I'm sure he can find a ship.  We'll have time to discuss details on the voyage if something comes up."

Great let me know what you want to purchase and what you are looking for in terms of a ship.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on February 18, 2012, 03:41:24 AM
Quote from: Benoist;514964Lucius looks at the others as soon as Quintus left: "Any additional topic you'd want to discuss? If not, I shall take my leave and make my own preparations, gather some information and so on before we leave."

Sounds good. Let me know what you intend to do for prep and information gathering.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Benoist on February 20, 2012, 01:46:18 PM
Quote from: BedrockBrendan;515246Sounds good. Let me know what you intend to do for prep and information gathering.

Lucius will depart.

First, he will go to his own estate and explain to his family he has to go on business for the State, without explaining any further, assuring them that he is alright, but the least they know about it, the better.

He will then go to the Senate to inform them of his departure for medical reasons. He intends to travel to Mauretania and wonders if he could be of any use to the Senate while he is there, as in, inspecting the local administration, outpost and so on. It is his excuse to gather some information about the place. Who's in command of the administration and the military down there? Are there any noticeable affairs or events that made their way back to Rome he could investigate?
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on February 20, 2012, 05:26:05 PM
Quote from: Benoist;515668Lucius will depart.

First, he will go to his own estate and explain to his family he has to go on business for the State, without explaining any further, assuring them that he is alright, but the least they know about it, the better.

He will then go to the Senate to inform them of his departure for medical reasons. He intends to travel to Mauretania and wonders if he could be of any use to the Senate while he is there, as in, inspecting the local administration, outpost and so on. It is his excuse to gather some information about the place. Who's in command of the administration and the military down there? Are there any noticeable affairs or events that made their way back to Rome he could investigate?

The senate recieves the news with murmurs and nods. Consul Asprenas raises his hand and addresses you:

"Senator Piso, if you are ill then the dry winds of Mauretania may do you well. And you may be of service to the senate during your departure. As you know Mauretania is a client of Rome, and I hear rumors that their king, Ptolemy, has dared wear the purple on a day honoring our emperor. Even if there was no ill intent behind this gesture, it will no doubt stir up the local Mauri. Perhaps you could send us regular reports on any rumors of rebellion or unusual activities. Should a crisis unfold, the senate controls the third legion Augusta in neighboring Africa (under the command of Gaius Calpernius Piso)."
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on February 22, 2012, 05:47:31 PM
Quintus sends Theo to summon the soldiers to Quintus' home, and lays out the equipment while he waits for the men to arrive.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Benoist on February 22, 2012, 06:14:08 PM
Quote from: BedrockBrendan;515705The senate recieves the news with murmurs and nods. Consul Asprenas raises his hand and addresses you:

"Senator Piso, if you are ill then the dry winds of Mauretania may do you well. And you may be of service to the senate during your departure. As you know Mauretania is a client of Rome, and I hear rumors that their king, Ptolemy, has dared wear the purple on a day honoring our emperor. Even if there was no ill intent behind this gesture, it will no doubt stir up the local Mauri. Perhaps you could send us regular reports on any rumors of rebellion or unusual activities. Should a crisis unfold, the senate controls the third legion Augusta in neighboring Africa (under the command of Gaius Calpernius Piso)."

"And thus it shall be done, dear Consul. There can be no doubt as to the place where my family's loyalties lie: at the side of the most exalted child of Rome, our guide, and light of this civilization, the most noble son of Germanicus, Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus Germanicus. I shall enjoy the climate of Mauretania and keep an eye out on behalf of the Senate. Whatever I may witness, you will know, as well as my relative, in Africa. Rome will then do as Rome pleases.

May divine fortune smile upon you, Senators, and those whose hearts and minds are set on defending our city against its most tenacious enemies. Ave!"

And thus Lucius Calpurnius Piso leaves the room.

There is a library that is part of the Senate complex, isn't there? Or somewhere on Palatine Hill in any case?
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on February 23, 2012, 04:51:08 AM
Quote from: Benoist;516086There is a library that is part of the Senate complex, isn't there? Or somewhere on Palatine Hill in any case?

Yes, a very extensive library and you have access to it.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on February 23, 2012, 04:52:01 AM
Quote from: Sigmund;516082Quintus sends Theo to summon the soldiers to Quintus' home, and lays out the equipment while he waits for the men to arrive.

Theo returns with the soldiers in a few hours.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on February 23, 2012, 08:46:49 AM
Quintus salutes the men and welcomes them into his home. He asks Theo to retrieve refreshments and then shows the men into the courtyard where the equipment is laid out.

"There is a set for each of you, which is yours to keep. I have been given leave by the Praetorian Prefect to start my own little side venture as head of a private guard unit. I have chosen you men to be my first recruits, and decided to step up our meeting in order to make sure we are prepared when our first contract begins." Quintus smiles. "You will be paid equal to what you have earned in the Legions, plus an extra 2000 a year. I will supply you with equipment that will become yours to keep and pass on to heirs. As founding members of this unit, you will be first in consideration for promotion and command, with an attendant increase in remuneration... assuming our venture is successful. If it is not, I will provide for you and your families from my own holdings as your exit from the security of the Legions and risk in joining the venture is my responsibility. Our first client will be another new mercantile venture begun by Senator Lucius Calpurnius Piso. His agent in this venture is an olive merchant named Carus." Quintus grins and winks, "Probably why the Prefect was so willing to give me leave time and permission to start this. Our main rules will be to guard our client and their property with honor and commitment, and to remain loyal and discrete once we have been hired to do a job. We will not dishonor ourselves by being bought off by honor-less scum. We are and always will be Soldiers of Rome after all. So, what say you men?"
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Benoist on February 23, 2012, 11:49:04 AM
Meanwhile, Lucius goes to the library and searches for information about Ptolemy, the history of Mauretania, as well as information about Pomponis Mela: his previous offices and assignments, his family history, anything that might tell me more about the man, including any bizarre events or occurences that might stand out to scrutiny.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on February 23, 2012, 12:30:02 PM
Quote from: Benoist;516226Meanwhile, Lucius goes to the library and searches for information about Ptolemy, the history of Mauretania, as well as information about Pomponis Mela: his previous offices and assignments, his family history, anything that might tell me more about the man, including any bizarre events or occurences that might stand out to scrutiny.

There are extensive histories of Mauretania and the Ptolemy family (these will take several hours to go over). Nothing on Pomponius Mela but you notice many of the Mauretanian histories are written by him. He also has a large history of Iberia and of Carthage.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on February 23, 2012, 01:17:21 PM
Quote from: Sigmund;516171Quintus salutes the men and welcomes them into his home. He asks Theo to retrieve refreshments and then shows the men into the courtyard where the equipment is laid out.

"There is a set for each of you, which is yours to keep. I have been given leave by the Praetorian Prefect to start my own little side venture as head of a private guard unit. I have chosen you men to be my first recruits, and decided to step up our meeting in order to make sure we are prepared when our first contract begins." Quintus smiles. "You will be paid equal to what you have earned in the Legions, plus an extra 2000 a year. I will supply you with equipment that will become yours to keep and pass on to heirs. As founding members of this unit, you will be first in consideration for promotion and command, with an attendant increase in remuneration... assuming our venture is successful. If it is not, I will provide for you and your families from my own holdings as your exit from the security of the Legions and risk in joining the venture is my responsibility. Our first client will be another new mercantile venture begun by Senator Lucius Calpurnius Piso. His agent in this venture is an olive merchant named Carus." Quintus grins and winks, "Probably why the Prefect was so willing to give me leave time and permission to start this. Our main rules will be to guard our client and their property with honor and commitment, and to remain loyal and discrete once we have been hired to do a job. We will not dishonor ourselves by being bought off by honor-less scum. We are and always will be Soldiers of Rome after all. So, what say you men?"

Standing at attention they both shout: "Speak and we obey". Neither one looks you in the eye or expresses emotion. Like all good Roman soldiers their posture couldn't be more perfect if they were carved of marble or stone.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on February 23, 2012, 01:48:18 PM
Quote from: BedrockBrendan;516242Standing at attention they both shout: "Speak and we obey". Neither one looks you in the eye or expresses emotion. Like all good Roman soldiers their posture couldn't be more perfect if they were carved of marble or stone.

Quintus nods and says, "Take your ease men. Please, inspect your new gear and do not hesitate to inform me of anything else you might want or need. I chose the leather because we are traveling to Mauretania for our first assignment, and I hear tell it's rather warm there this time of year. When we arrive, if need be, I will also acquire light colored cloaks to cover the armor with to protect it from the heat of the sun."
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on February 23, 2012, 03:31:52 PM
Quote from: Sigmund;516250Quintus nods and says, "Take your ease men. Please, inspect your new gear and do not hesitate to inform me of anything else you might want or need. I chose the leather because we are traveling to Mauretania for our first assignment, and I hear tell it's rather warm there this time of year. When we arrive, if need be, I will also acquire light colored cloaks to cover the armor with to protect it from the heat of the sun."

Gallus and Hostus inspect the arms and nod. As he admires the gear Hostus says "These will be just fine sir. And don't worry about the heat, Gallus and I served under the She-Wolf in Judea.".
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on February 24, 2012, 01:08:39 PM
Quintus nods and smiles as Theo hands out refreshments, "I may be your new commanding officer, but I am well aware that you men are veterans and I value your experience. While we will want to maintain our discipline and chain of command, I ask that you do not hesitate to share with me any thoughts or experiences you have about any situations that arise during the performing of our duties. I chose you men precisely for your experience and I welcome advice and respectful correction when needed. One thing I ask relating to our upcoming detail specifically is that you not mention my rank or affiliation with the Praetorians. I do not want to give anyone there the idea that I am there to spy or check up on them, as that might cause complications disruptive to our actual mission. Like any good Roman, I simply wish to increase my own holdings and bring glory to the Empire." at which point Quintus grins.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on February 24, 2012, 01:48:56 PM
Quote from: Sigmund;516522Quintus nods and smiles as Theo hands out refreshments, "I may be your new commanding officer, but I am well aware that you men are veterans and I value your experience. While we will want to maintain our discipline and chain of command, I ask that you do not hesitate to share with me any thoughts or experiences you have about any situations that arise during the performing of our duties. I chose you men precisely for your experience and I welcome advice and respectful correction when needed. One thing I ask relating to our upcoming detail specifically is that you not mention my rank or affiliation with the Praetorians. I do not want to give anyone there the idea that I am there to spy or check up on them, as that might cause complications disruptive to our actual mission. Like any good Roman, I simply wish to increase my own holdings and bring glory to the Empire." at which point Quintus grins.

Hostus looks doubtful for a moment, then smiles and says "I think I gather your intentions sir, you want us to blend in more, look less official-like. Am I right on that count?"
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on February 24, 2012, 02:00:29 PM
Quote from: BedrockBrendan;516531Hostus looks doubtful for a moment, then smiles and says "I think I gather your intentions sir, you want us to blend in more, look less official-like. Am I right on that count?"
"Yes," Quintus replies. "I do not want anyone to think we are more than we appear, as the resulting... complications could be disruptive to both our business and the business of our client, which would be unaceptable. It is a simple assignment and I'd like to keep it that way."
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on February 24, 2012, 02:53:19 PM
Quote from: Sigmund;516533"Yes," Quintus replies. "I do not want anyone to think we are more than we appear, as the resulting... complications could be disruptive to both our business and the business of our client, which would be unaceptable. It is a simple assignment and I'd like to keep it that way."

"Very good sir," Hostus slaps Gallus hard on the shoulder and says, "a couple of common body guards it is then."
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on February 24, 2012, 03:11:17 PM
Quintus laughs, "At least for this assignment men. Is there anything else you think we might want or need in the way of equipment?"
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on February 24, 2012, 04:35:55 PM
Quote from: Sigmund;516552Quintus laughs, "At least for this assignment men. Is there anything else you think we might want or need in the way of equipment?"

"A man can never have enough figs sir," Hostus rubs his belly, "Wouldn't mind one or two on the sea voyage...perhaps a few before as well."
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on February 25, 2012, 11:39:56 PM
Quote from: BedrockBrendan;516558"A man can never have enough figs sir," Hostus rubs his belly, "Wouldn't mind one or two on the sea voyage...perhaps a few before as well."

"I agree soldier." Quintus replies, then turns to his servant, "Theo, please bring us some of those figs you were wise enough to acquire yesterday. We can pack some for the voyage as well if you would be so kind."
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Benoist on February 29, 2012, 05:34:23 PM
Quote from: BedrockBrendan;516231There are extensive histories of Mauretania and the Ptolemy family (these will take several hours to go over). Nothing on Pomponius Mela but you notice many of the Mauretanian histories are written by him. He also has a large history of Iberia and of Carthage.

Lucius will take his time and go over these documents. He will also go to the Librarians and ask them if they know Pomponius Mela. Since there are copies of his writings here in the library, some of them might have known him personally. He will ask them what they think of the man, and how he came across to them. If that isn't the case, he will ask who in Rome copied these works for him. These people might know more.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on February 29, 2012, 06:51:47 PM
Quote from: Benoist;518060Lucius will take his time and go over these documents. He will also go to the Librarians and ask them if they know Pomponius Mela. Since there are copies of his writings here in the library, some of them might have known him personally. He will ask them what they think of the man, and how he came across to them. If that isn't the case, he will ask who in Rome copied these works for him. These people might know more.

From the documents you gather the following notable facts:

-Mauretania is a client kingdom of Rome and has been pretty well pacified. However it also has a checkered past dealing the with Rome. The last two kings were heavily Romanized.

-King Ptolemy is a descendant of Marc Antony And Cleopatra through his mother (Cleopatra Selene II). His father, Juba II, was an adopted by Julius Caesar and later the Divine Augustus. So this is a family with close ties to Rome and to the Imperial family.

-There are some who suggest (and this takes time for you to absorb because it involves reading between the lines) that Ptolemy is more worthy to rule than Caligula (because of his bloodline).

When you ask the librarian about Pomponius Mela he weighs with you his eyes then speaks: "He is an intolerable man who, thankfully, spends most of his time far away from Rome. If you plan to pay him a visit, tighten your purse, cork your wine and lock up your wife because he will pilfer all three given the chance."
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on March 09, 2012, 11:58:26 AM
Quintus finishes up his meeting with his soldiers, pays them half of the money for the upcoming assignment so they can pick up anything they might want or need, or even take care of any family. Then he helps Theo pack for the trip. Afterwards he sends Theo to check in with the rest of the expedition members to see if they require any help, also to obtain a time for when they might wish to acquire the goods we'll need for the trip so Quintus and his men can guard the transactions, and finally to learn the departure date and time and the name of the ship we will be taking if it's known.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on March 10, 2012, 12:08:16 PM
Quote from: Sigmund;520814Quintus finishes up his meeting with his soldiers, pays them half of the money for the upcoming assignment so they can pick up anything they might want or need, or even take care of any family. Then he helps Theo pack for the trip. Afterwards he sends Theo to check in with the rest of the expedition members to see if they require any help, also to obtain a time for when they might wish to acquire the goods we'll need for the trip so Quintus and his men can guard the transactions, and finally to learn the departure date and time and the name of the ship we will be taking if it's known.

Okay. Theo departs and one by one visits everyone to plan a timeframe for goods acquisition (you can each post what you say to Theo). I believe Carus was in charge of renting the ship, so he visits him last to determine the details.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on March 19, 2012, 11:46:39 AM
Quintus spends time practicing his martial skills using his new gear, then spends time maintaining it, checking over his armor and weapons carefully while he waits for Theo's return.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on March 27, 2012, 11:13:52 AM
Quintus then cleans up and has dinner while he waits for Theo to return.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on March 27, 2012, 12:25:45 PM
Quote from: Sigmund;522377Quintus spends time practicing his martial skills using his new gear, then spends time maintaining it, checking over his armor and weapons carefully while he waits for Theo's return.

I think it is fair to rule that Theo has spoken with all the other members and returned.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on March 27, 2012, 01:36:13 PM
Quintus welcomes Theo back and sets dinner out for his servant as Theo relates what he has learned. Quintus then send Theo on a short trip to inform our soldiers of the schedule and to ask them to report first thing in the morning to begin training together.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: skofflox on April 10, 2012, 02:57:50 AM
After the others leave, Carus freshens up and heads for a thermae known by him to be frequented by others with trade interests.
He spends that evening relaxing in the baths while keeping his ear open for any lucrative trade possibilities regarding transport of goods to Mauritania.

If none present themselves he will go the next morning to his contacts (mercantile allies) and/or Father (not sure if the family has a ship available or captains that we deal with on a regular basis).

(I would like to be the middle man...locating some goods that need transport and finding a ship capable with room for passengers. Maybe I can buy out someones interest... I can help crew a vessel  acting as cook/medic/able bodied seaman as well.)

OOC: Apologies for not posting recently. Am ready to continue on a regular basis!
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on April 13, 2012, 01:25:06 PM
Quote from: skofflox;528635After the others leave, Carus freshens up and heads for a thermae known by him to be frequented by others with trade interests.
He spends that evening relaxing in the baths while keeping his ear open for any lucrative trade possibilities regarding transport of goods to Mauritania.

If none present themselves he will go the next morning to his contacts (mercantile allies) and/or Father (not sure if the family has a ship available or captains that we deal with on a regular basis).

(I would like to be the middle man...locating some goods that need transport and finding a ship capable with room for passengers. Maybe I can buy out someones interest... I can help crew a vessel  acting as cook/medic/able bodied seaman as well.)

OOC: Apologies for not posting recently. Am ready to continue on a regular basis!

While relaxing and socializing in the tepidarium you over hear an Egyptian man who is trying to find interested parties in his papyrus business.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Bedrockbrendan on April 26, 2012, 08:36:10 AM
Okay, as promised (see recruitment thread) moving this forward a bit. You guys are on the ship to Mauretania and expect about a 9 day voyage. If there is anything you wany to do while onboard let me know, otherwise i will progress to the docking in a couple of days.
Title: Servants of Gaius Part One: Mauretania
Post by: Sigmund on April 26, 2012, 10:05:03 AM
All Quintus plans on doing is daily training with his men, along with keeping an eye on the crew, our cargo (each of us pulls guard duty in the hold on a rotating basis), and our clients.