Shortly after rising, Marcus enjoyed a ientaculum composed of bread, fruits, and nuts. Treating himself this morning because he knew that today was going to be an especially long day. After finishing his meal, he quickly hurried to dress. Marcus was already late. Within a few minutes he was ready, and set out to reach his upper class patron to fulfill the salutatio. His patron, Tiberius, welcomed him with his usual gift of a sportula. Although Marcus was grateful to receive his usual basket of fruit, he had more urgent things on his mind. Marcus sought legal advice from Tiberius. Early in the week, a minor argument that had involved Marcus, resulted in a fight that ended with 2 of a wealthy man’s slaves injured and some other property damage. After listening to his story, Tiberius told Marcus to return for dinner to discuss the matter more fully. However, on the condition that Marcus would give political support to Tiberius and come to town with him as a member of his entourage. Marcus gladly agreed.
As promised, Marcus walked among Tiberius‘ entourage to the Forum. Tiberius was going to plead cases in court and engage in other daily political activities, which meant that Marcus would have some time to kill. Instead of waiting with the other members of the entourage, Marcus snuck off to browse in the market. What Marcus did not know was that today he was fated to see his true love for the first time. Passing by a fruit stand, Marcus saw a woman. He felt helpless and completely possessed by her beauty Unable to control his jaw from dropping or his eyes from staring, Marcus found his legs to be the only functional part of his body. They seemed to have a mind of their own as they dragged him closer to the magnificent creature. It was obvious she was wealthy, as she wore a crimson collared stola with a maroon palla draped gracefully over one shoulder. Her one exposed arm revealed a collection of silver rings and a golden armband. As he got closer, Marcus noticed the shimmer of red in her almond colored hair, and the specs of gold in her hazel eyes. Although well covered, her olive skin showed from underneath her stola as the breeze blew. Marcus guessed her to be of the equestrian class. From first sight, he knew she was well above him and that he didn’t have a chance...
