Friday, September 24, 2010

Part VI Ludi Romani Magna Circenses 13Sept2010: FINAL RACE A Modernized Roman Fiction


EX OFFICIO AEDILIS P. ANNAEI  L. IVLIAE





Ludi Romani Magna 2010: FINAL RACE and Closing of Ludi Romani; today, 13Sept 2010 is dedicated to the Capitoline Triad.

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C. CLODIA CONCHA: Avete Quirites, Amici et Inimici! This is Cardia Clodia Concha back again as one of your commentators for this, the Final race of the Ludi Romani Magna 2763, the race that will decide this Ludi’s Champion!  With me is V. Herminius Aquilinus who will once again give us an excellent running commentary of the race from high in the Circus Maximus! Old Sol is rising beautifully this early fall morning, shining brightly and with nary a cloud in the sky.  The wind Gods are smiling upon us gently, rustling tender golden yellow and bright red leaves that match the beauty of the abundance of flowers that fill the early morning air with seductive fragrances while birds sing melodies to herald the attendees to their seats. There is electricity in the air, the stands are filled with anticipation, bets are being made and the owners of the chariots, and their friends and entourages are staying close to the tracks. The wine is flowing, vendors are having a record day and it is still early morning, the Pompa was particularly festive; the entertainment highly unusual!

The Plaustra is in place and they are ready for the Ritual to the Capitoline Triad this last day of the Ludi; the Priests and Priestesses take their places.
Aedile Curules et Sacerdos Veneris Genetricis L. Iulia Aquila has just called for Silentum…

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Ritual to the Capitoline Triad

PRAEFATIO

Iane pater testem te testor mihi. Te hoc ture obmovendo bonas preces precor, ut sis  volens propitius nobis liberisque nostris domibus familiisque nostris. Illaec advorsum si  quid pecasso, Iane pater, veneror te ut misera ego sim.
Sic sit et sic est.

Father Janus, I call on You to witness. I make this offering of incense to you and pray that you will look kindly and favorably upon us and our children, on our house and our households.  And if I do anything to violate this (rite), I pray that I shall suffer misfortune.
Let it be so and it is so.


SALUTATIO

Optimus Maximus, protector of boundaries (Fidius) and of the state (Stator), great thunderer (Tonans), watch over this ritual and grant it thy blessing so that it may be found worthy both in your eyes and to the immortal gods. 

Juno Regina, celestial light (Lucetia), who warns against dangers (Moneta), who purifies (Februata), sanctify our hearts and minds and grant us your blessing for this ceremony so it may be found worthy both to your eyes and to the immortal gods.

Minerva most skillful (Sollertissima), goddess of wisdom, master of the arts, bestower of victory, let us be eloquent and grant this ritual your blessings so that our words will be worthy both in your eyes and to the immortal gods.


PRAECATIO

O Father Jupiter who inhabits the Tarpeian Heights as His chosen abode next to the heavens, and You Juno, Daughter of Saturnus, and You, divine Virgin, whose gentle breast is harshly girt with the Aegis of the terrible Gorgon, and all You Gods and Indigites of Italy,
Hear us and grant us your blessings so that our prayers and offerings will be found worthy both in your eyes and to the all the immortal gods.
Let it be so and it is so.

SACRIFICATIO

Iuppiter Optime Maxime, ita Iuno Regina Coeli, patrona Rei Publicae, ita Minerva sancta, tutela ab omnis inimicis, invoco vos. Propitii despicete,
Capitolini dii magni, accipiteque hunc oblationem parvum in verbis eoris factus est, qui pacem deorum agere volunt.

(Iuppiter Best and Greatest, Iuno Queen of Heaven, protectress of the state, holy Minerva, defender against all enemies, I call upon you. Look down in favor, great gods of the Capitol, and accept this small sacrifice which we make in the name of all those who would be partakers in the peace of the gods).

Minerva Sollertissima, te coram thus cremo, crustum offero et vinum libo, in adoratio gratiasque. Te placeat hunc sacrificium, ut per novus anno appropinquo ab omnia iniuria protegas.

(Minerva most skilful, I burn incense, offer cake and pour out wine before you, in worship and gratitude. May this offering be pleasing to you, and may you safeguard us all from harm throughout the coming year.)

Iuno Regina, te coram thus cremo, crustum offero et vinum libo, in adoratio gratiasque. Te placeat hunc sacrificium, ut super domi familiaeque nostrae invigiles, quod fortunatem felicitatemque firmitatemque per novus anno appropinquo habeamus .
.
(Queen Iuno, I burn incense, offer cake and pour out wine before you, in worship and gratitude. May this offering be pleasing to you, and may you watch over our homes and our families, that we may enjoy health, happiness and prosperity throughout the coming year).

LITATIO

Iuppiter Optime Maxime, rex deorum immortalem, te coram thus cremo, crustum offero et vinum libo, in adoratio maxima cum reverentia gratiasque. Te placeat hunc sacrificium, et nos semper faveas. Adiuva nos, dive maxime, quod per novus anno appropinquo nominem Romanem digneamus in operibus nostris.

(Iuppiter Best and Greatest, king of the immortal gods, I burn incense, offer cake and pour out wine before you, in worship with the greatest respect and gratitude. May this offering be pleasing to you, and may you always be favorable to us. Help us, greatest god, that all we do throughout the coming year be worthy of the name `Roman').

Ita vultis, ita siet!
(As it is wished, so may it be!)

Ave, Iuppiter Optime Maxime! Ave, Iuno Regina, Propugnatrix Divina! Ave, Minerva, Custos Sollertissima Rei Publicae!
Ave, Vesta Mater! Ab divine potestate vestra capite inclino.

(If unsatisfactory or attended by ill omen):

Dive, si quid vobis in illisce neque satisfactum est, vos hisce sacrificio piaculo.

(To the Gods if something in this was not satisfactory to you, may this sacrifice appease you)

PERLITATIO
“No more, Gods on High, do I ask of You today; it is enough.”
“Thus it is done. May all the Gods above and below always love you and wish you happiness in all that is good.”
“May the immortal Gods make it so, as fortunate as it is pious.”

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C. CLODIA CONCHA: An inspiring ritual by Sacerdos Julia Aquila this fine day!
Without further comments on the celebrity studded attendees’ list, which a body only needs to look around them to gain full knowledge of, here is the list of Chariots today! Although the race is primarily dominated by Albatae semi-final winners the Venetae are out in force, dressed in rich blue Togatae and Tunicae for which I provided the fabrics and co-designed with, and were appointed by, Inner Peacock owner Balbus Gallus Hilarius at a soirée this past weekend.

VITVS: *teasing smile* What? I wasn’t invited?

C. CLODIA CONCHA: Ah Vitus, it is such a pleasure to be sharing this skybox with you; I must say I am so glad you have returned to Rome! But, the reason you were not invited is because I believe you were busy with the Domina of the Albatae, er, attending and planning parties and such… *Vitus passes a small smile and nods*
But the sport that occurred afterwards was what you really missed, all that blood and flesh…
*slowly runs her tongue over sparkling canines, the long slim manicured fingers of her right hand gently strums the pommel of her lamb’s leather cat o’ nine tails attached at her waist, then with a wicked grin and a smoky drawl* When I say peacock feathers go well with a garment, one should always listen…

VITVS: I shall remember that Domina Concha…*laughs loudly* You are insatiable!

C. CLODIA CONCHA: Somehow Dominus, I do not see you as the peacock feather type! Leather, and yes, raw silk bound with gold and gems, what I do not know though *turns a sinister gaze his way curling her lips into an even more sinister smile, her ebon eyes blazing* how you are going to keep the object of your affections in line…

VITVS: Ah now Concha while that is not any of your concern, I will tell you that a thoroughbred is best when allowed to remain free and unfettered. *his deep voice washes over her hypnotically in a very easy fashion*

C. CLODIA CONCHA: I think you may one day come to regret that philosophy – as for me I like the object of my affection to take a – slight - upper hand, in private that is. Woe to any man who publicly attempts such action!
*her dark eyes flash poison daggers and then segues back to the races*
Oh but today the Albatae is enforce! White, white and more white! Snowblinding! They have three chariots today but having the honor of post position is Tempestas Noctis driven by Nicodemus the Thracian for the Venetae owned by Statia Cornelia Æternia, in second position is Luxogenes driven by Eporicus for the Albatae, owned by my dear Consul Albucius, in third is Ventrus Albus driven by Hermannus for the Albatae owned by C. Maria Caeca and at the fourth gate is Vita Brevis driven by Aiofe of the Silures for the Albatae on loan to Domina of the Albatae, Aedile Curule L. Julia Aquila, by its owner esteemed Senator Cn. Equitius Marinus.
I see the troika are making their way around the track in a lively procession, the quadrigae are adorned with wreaths and the agitatores are truly working the crowds. I can hardly hear myself think! The Venetae are stomping in the stands, I do hope they hold up! Near the track is Æternia shouting “GO VENETA! VENI VIDI VICI!!!” and waving those darling Tiger Striped Blue Fuzzy Pom-Poms, now those, I think, are courtesy of Gallus Hilarius!

VITVS: I am afraid she is being out shouted by another Venetae supporter, Tribune Petronius, who can easily be heard shouting: “GO BLUES! BLUES UP! VENETI VINCENT! IN HOC COLORE VINCES! PORRO VENETI! VENETI! VENETI! VENETI VINCENT! IN HOC COLORE VINCENT! VENETI VICERVNT! VIVAT TEMPESTAS NOCTIS! BLUES UP! BLUES! BLUES! BLUES ARE THE BEST! GO BLUES! BLUES UP!” His has been a strong voice in Rome this year and not only in the Ludi.

C. CLODIA CONCHA: Ah, yes and he, and his ‘curls to die for,’ has been the subject of many an admiring tongue. *tosses back her head, her Raven braid spouting down behind her back, her swallow evident in her long ivory neck as she gushed* I would have liked to have watched from the shadows as his agitatore was flogged but I did send him a note requesting to be present and to partake of the feast of steak tartare courtesy of his quadrigae…

VITVS:*his aqua eyes now stormy, his voice deep with a touch of gruffness, his face stern and stoic* With the bloodlust evident in some of the Roman Matronae they should go off to war in the legions.

C. CLODIA CONCHA: *responds with laughter the sound of which is light many tiny fragile bells* ah big powerful warrior, how then do you rationalize the religious sacrifices performed by Domina Julia?

VITVS: *he blesses her with a handsome smile then stands and bows gallantly and deeply from the waist, saying sincerely* lust is one obsession; an occasional sacrifice is another issue entirely.

C. CLODIA CONCHA: You have yet to skim the surface of the mysterious Julia Aquila, I do not think anyone has… *waves him away with a graceful flick of her fingers and rolls her eyes, laughing as she says” Tartare Pegase, Tartare Antares, Tartare Orion, Tartare Sirie!

VITVS: *laughing and shaking his head at the dark haired beauty* The agitatores and quadrigae are back at the carceres behind the gates. Consul Memmius Albucius, Aedile Julia Aquila and Questrix Maria Caeca have taken positions high in the center island to cheer on their chariots!

C. CLODIA CONCHA: The trumpets sound!
From the Magistrates box, Aedilis Curules Placidus drops the mappa; the ostia are sprung…
Missi sunt currus!
And they are off!!!!

VITVS:*shouting over the riotous cheers and protestations of the crowd* RIGHT OUT OF THE GATE NICODEMUS SWINGS THE TEMPESTAS NOCTIS INTO THE LUXOGENES!  Eporicus manages control of the Luxogenes then continues a steady pace; The Vita Brevis passes the Ventrus Albus and paces alongside the Luxogenes.  Hermannus takes the Ventrus Albus swiftly around the outside and wields the wide quadrigae towards the Tempestas Noctis!

As the dolphin is turned into the second lap it is Tempestas Noctis for the Venetae; Ventrus Albus for the Albatae, Vita Brevis and Luxogenes for the Albatae tied in third.
If my eyes are not deceiving me, Aiofe and Eporicus are flirting with each other!
But is this flirtation to gain advantage? Only time will tell. The quadrigae thunder down the track, pure raging motion!

Surging ahead Vita Brevis takes the others by surprise as she begins to pass Tempestas Noctis just as the third dolphin turns and they head down the first stretch of the 3rd lap – Nicodemus throws some yellow sandy matter at Aiofe which she deflects by lifting her forearm protecting her eyes!
Nicodemus steers the wheel of the Tempestas Noctis into the wheel of the Vita Brevis, grinding it audibly!
*the crowds of Albatae shout and jeer - the Venetae cheer and hoot*
The Vita Brevis nearly tips over and a spoke has flown off the wheel!
Aiofe is thrown off balance and holds on to the outside of the side of the chariot which is dangerously close to tipping over, her arm where she deflected the yellow sand is bleeding, cut by the fine sinister glass!
The Luxogenes and Ventrus Albus speed by – and the better for Aiofe if she is unable to maintain her hold!
Hermannus has caught up to the Tempestas Noctis - he tosses back his blonde mane and laughs loudly while he uses his whip across the knuckles of Nicodemus, who tries to appear hardly bothered by it, but coupled with Hermannus’ Ventrus Albus pressing him into the spina, and as sparks fly from the wheels of the Tempestas Noctis Nicodemus struggles to keep his chariot in line but loses his advantage and is now in second place as the Ventrus Albus takes the lead!

Recovered Aiofe, looking more determined than ever, sparks flying from her eyes, droplets of blood trailing behind her urges her horses to pound the sand with all of their might!
Luxogenes is passing the Tempestas Noctis on the last stretch of the third lap!

It is Ventrus Albus for the Albatae, Luxogenes for the Albatae – no wait! Vita Brevis for the Albatae comes out of nowhere and passes Tempestas Noctis and Luxogenes and is now in second, Tempestas Noctis for the Venetae is in last place!

The fourth the dolphin is turned and Tempestas Noctis comes around and is coming back into first place, foam flying off his horses in sheets, but its an upset as Luxogenes speeds between Ventrus Albus and Tempestas Noctis, the three neck in neck as they pound down the last stretch to the finish. The Vita Brevis has maneuvered her steeds into first place and with a war cry her steeds surge ahead leaving the rest behind her!
*the crowds go wild, the sound is raucous*

Aiofe of Silures driving the Vita Brevis for the Albatae crosses the finish line by a full length! Luxogenes for the Albatae comes in second, closely followed by the Ventrus Alba for the Albatae in third and even closer the Tempestas Noctis in fourth place!
*trillions of gardenia petals fall seemingly from the sky, people stream down in drves from the stands and skyboxes*

THE WINNER, IN FIRST PLACE, IS VITA BREVIS DRIVEN BY AIOFE OF THE SILURES FOR THE ALBATAE OWNED BY AEDILE L. JULIA AQUILA, ON LOAN FROM CN. EQUITIUS MARINUS!
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE NEW CHAMPION OF THE LUDI ROMANI MAGNA 2763 AUC!
*continues to shout over the appreciative roar of the crowd*
PARTY TONIGHT ON THE PALATINE AT VILLA IVLIA!!!!!!!!!
THE STREETS WILL FLOW WITH THE FINEST WINE, BREAD, CHEESE AND ALL MANNER OF DELICACIES COURTESY OF THE IULII AND THE EQUITII!

~FINI~


©Aquila (Note the Ritual in smaller text and within the borders is free domain INTERMISSIO)

Part V Ludi Romani Magna Circenses12Sept2010: SEMIFINALS A Modernized Roman Fiction

Ludi Romani 2010: FIRST and SECOND (LAST) SEMIFINAL
EX OFFICIO AEDILIS P. ANNAEI L. IVLIAE


L. Iulia Aquila omnibus civibus S.P.D.

Welcome to the SEMIFINALS!!!!!

This day of the Ludi, 12Sept2010 is dedicated to APOLLO.

Welcome Quirites, Socii, Peregrinisque to the Ludi Romani 2010! A spectacular Pompa was witnessed this day, citizens and guests alike seeking healing for themselves and loved ones. They brought and also purchased amulets and talismans and left messages and offerings at shrines along the way! Today is a day of promise with clear blue skies overhead; the crowds are hopeful and excited, the entertainment even more colorful.
Now the ritual to Apollo commences.
The call for silentum is issued.


Sacrum Apolloni Medico
SALUTATIO
“Hail Apollo Medicus and hail You immortal Gods ! Come, come (Gods), take in this ceremony, and protect it!
PRAECATIO
Apollo, we ask and beseech You, we beg and pray to You so that You may confirm, strengthen and help the Republic of the People of Nova Roman, the Quirites, so that You save the Republic of the People of Nova Roman, the Quirites, from all discord, illness, dissension and wrongdoing; so that the Republic of the People of Nova Roman, Quirites, may always flourish and prosper; so that You may keep away all illnesses visible and invisible; and that You allow all events to be good and salutary to the Nova Roman People of Quirites, to the Republic of the People of Nova Roman, the Quirites; and that you put an end to the controversy that is ongoing between the Nova Roman citizens.
SACRIFICATIO
Apollo, by offering you this incense I pray good prayers so that You may be benevolent and propitious to the People of Nova Roma, the Quirites, to the Republic of the Nova Roman People, the Quirites, to the Collegium Pontificum and to the Collegium Augurum, to our Vestals and sacerdotes, to us, to our households, our homes and to our families.
Apollo, when offering incense to You I have prayed good prayers, for the very same reason may You be blessed and strengthened by this small portion of wine.
LITATIO
For these reasons, Blessed One, by offering this wine, by offering this incense, by offering this libum be benevolent and propitious to the People of Nova Roma, the Quirites, to the Republic of the People of Nova Roman, the Quirites, to the Collegium Pontificum and to the Collegium Augurum, to our Vestals and sacerdotes, to us, to our households, our homes and to our families.
PERLITATIO
“No more, Gods on High, do I ask of You today; it is enough.”
“Thus it is done. May all the Gods above and below always love you and wish you happiness in all that is good.”
“May the immortal Gods make it so, as fortunate as it is pious.”
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IVLIA: Good Morning once again and welcome to the first semi-final of the Ludi Romani 2010!  It is a crisp cool morning, spirits are high, the stands are packed! I am Julia Aquila, your commentator this morning and with me in the broadcasting box is V. Herminius Aquilinus who has been making quite a hit at the various parties since his return to Rome and who will be once again reporting the race for us today. The crowd is rushing about procuring last minute food and drink before the first semifinal race begins.
The agitatores for this most important race are finishing with their preparations and attending to last minute task: they are rechecking their harnesses, chariots, wheels and horses.
The chariots are absolutely gleaming and pristine, the agitatores impressive in their colors, the quadrigae lively and frisky!
The troika are making their way around the track in this lively procession, wreaths adorn the steeds and the agitatores are truly stars this morning, waving and smiling! 
Competing in the first Race in post position is the Drunas driven by Nervia for the Albatae owned by Consul Albucius, second is the sky blue Tempestas Noctis driven by the tall crimson haired Nicodemus the Thracian for the Venetae owned by St. Cornelia Æternia, in third is the Consul’s other chariot, Luxogenes driven by Eporicus, my personal favorite, for the Albatae and finally the Fulminata driven by the handsome Gaul Lucius Furius for the Venetae owned by A. Vitellius Celsus.

Many Thanks go to the Herminii for the wonderful and well tended buffet in the commentators’ box and also for providing the feasts and endless refreshments for today’s special quarterfinal!

*moves to the edge of the skybox and watches as Placidus prepares to start the race, the noise raises in a deafening wave from the spectators and Iulia repeats a familiar phrase*

They have arrived back at the ostia are in position in the carceres.

The trumpets sound the signal, Aedilis Placidus drops the mappa to the ground; the ostia are sprung!

Missi sunt currus! 

They're off!


VITVS: Yes they are off and they are moving down the track at an even pace, in a cloud of red sand as they make the first turn; Luxogenes in the lead with the Tempestas Noctis on his heels, the Fulminata and the Drunas do not appear in any hurry. As the dolphin turns into the second lap it is White, Blue, White, Blue and crowd is cheering their favorites on. The quadrigae thunder through the second lap and maintain position into the third lap with Luxogenes getting too close to the spina for comfort.
Look at that! *crowds rise in their seats!* Drunas is pulling ahead and nearly makes the Tempestas Noctis lose control! Drunas is in first and we nearly lose track of the Fulminata as it had followed quickly but nearly hidden by the Drunas’ dust!
As the Dolphin is turned into the fourth lap the order has changed omnes! It’s the Drunas in first, then the Fulminata a close second, a nose behind, followed by Tempestas Noctis and at their heels is the Luxogenes!
Consul Albucius has left his skybox and has been escorted to the center of the track! A dangerous maneuver, but who can blame him!
The Tempestas Noctis goes wide on the outside, the steeds in a full lather as Nicodemus pushes them into first place!                                                                                                                                                Hope the hot-walkers are ready for that team!
 Pounding down the last stretch Luxogenes *Julia jumps up and down trying to suppress an excited screech* and he just might surpass the Tempestas Noctis in a final upset!
But No!
It is Tempestas Noctis by a hair in first place, followed by the Consul’s Luxogenes in second, the Drunas is third and the Fulminata is last.

THE TEMPESTAS NOCTIS FOR THE VENETAE AND THE LUXOGENES FOR THE ALBATAE GO TO THE FINALS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

JVLIA: Oh the excitement is in the air as we break for the intermessio, the mimes and musicians are piling onto the field, the acrobats on horse back and the jugglers, actors and orators are claiming their space and audience as thousands upon thousands of people stream down from the stands to partake of the free feast!
In addition to the generosity of the Herminii, The Consuls will be providing all the wine one can drink during the intermessio!

*Maria Caeca escorted by Hermannus (whose wife is in the infirmary), Balbus Gallus Hilarius, Cardia Clodia Concha escorted by Consul Albucius, Faustus Fannius Felix and Poppaea Solin Felicita, dear friend of Julia and Maria and a well known noble patron of the arts and Roman socialite, escorted by Consul Quintilianus accompanied by four Praetorians arrive in the spacious skybox to wait out the intermessio and to enjoy a special feast*

VITVS: *ambles over to Julia, towering above her and bends to her ear, his heated breath washing over her the sensitive ivory flesh sending chills down her spine then he speaks just loud enough for all to hear* Note the Praetorians, mea voluptas unica, to keep our Consuls from each other’s throats.

*before anyone can comment, the crowd begins to laugh, howl and hoot and they all look to the center of the big screen at a familiar sight… The Consuls rush down to the scene, the Praetorians swiftly in pursuit, speaking into their blue-tooths barking orders for other guards to meet them below*


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INTERMISSIO Scene II brought to us by ©C. Maria Caeca in its entirety (Scene 1 is found in Part III Ludi Romani Magna)

Scene II
 
*Scene: in the background you can the crowds roaring .and some occasional words. "Greeks" Parthians" "Carthaginians!" several citizens come on stage, yelling.*
 
1st citizen: "they want to kill the Greeks!"
 
2nd citizen: "No, the Parthans!"
 
3rd citizen: "Idiots, the Carthaginians"
 
4th: "We're Greeks!"
 
5th citizen: "Who are we, anyway?"
 
 
All: "Idiot!" *they begin to brawl.*
 
*Fantasia comes back, tunica torn, barely covering her decently, hair unbound and whipping in the breeze*
 
Fantasia: I *must* find the Magician! I need to ask him something!
 
Ragus awakens slowly: "what what .what did the Great Ones do to me?" Ah! I've been transported! This is Tartarus! We're all in Tartarus, and we're all
dead!"
 
All: No! We're all Greek! We'll Parthian! We're Carthaginian!
 
Fantasia: I don't *like* Parthians!"
 
 
 *Enter Senators:*
 
Sen. 1. Are we in compliance?
 
Sen. 2.: With what?
 
Sen. 1: with anything? Anywhere?
 
All: Uh, dunno!
 
Sen. 2: Where, in NR law, does it say that Greeks, Parthians or Carthaginians are bad and must be destroyed? Please be specific.
 
Sen. 3: I don't know, but we beat the stuffings out of Carthage, so maybe we think *they* are.
 
Sen. . Nope, we just think *they* are gone.
 
*Crowd gets larger, brawl gets louder and more exuberant.*
 
*The 2 Consuls are seen standing on the steps of a temple, arguing.*
 
Consul 2. "this is *your* fault! I *told* you not to provide free wine, now look at this mess!
 
Consul 1: No! this is *your* fault! You didn't stop these rumors when you could have!
 
 *Ragus crawls up the steps:* Oh, mighty consuls! You must make sacrifices to the gods to prevent our terrible fate! I'll start them for you.
*spills some wine on pavement, and splashes consul 1's toga*.
Oops, I didn't mean to give the gods *that* much!
*lifts wine skin, takes long drink, chokes.*
 
Consul 1: Ce qui est celui?
 
Fantasia: Oh, dear gods! The Gauls have invaded us .and we are being ruled by a Gaul! Woe is us!
*to Ragus* give me that!
*Grabs for wine skin, he pulls it away from her, trips, and sits down, abruptly*.
 
*Sound of police whistles. Enter members of the Praetora, with lictors.*
 
Praetorian Quaestor: "Lictors! Lictors! Get this mess cleaned up! I won't have this kind of behavior in the City!
 
Scriba 1: Ello, ello! What's this, then? What's this?
 
Scriba 2: *a dignified Matrona: grabs Fantasia by the hair and hauls her to her feet*
Shame on you! You're an absolute mess!
*the Scriba retrieves pins from hidden places in her tunica, and begins to pin Fantasia's tunica together* I must make you at least *appear* decent!
 
Fantasia: Ouch! You're sticking me with pins!
 
Crowd: A witch! A witch! She's using pins!
 
*Female scriba, muttering imprecations under her breath:* "Oh, be *QUIET* all of you! You are a disgrace to the name of Roman citizen!"
 
*A young priest strides into the square, takes one look at the malay, and says in a carrying voice:* Citizens! Stop this fighting! These are the
sacred games, where we honor the gods, and you are not behaving like the brothers and sisters you truly are!
 
Voice from crowd: Make us, priest.
 
*Young priest sighs.* As you wish.
*enters malay, starts grabbing combatants by the scruff of their necks, and tosses them away from one another, creating a path through the mob as he goes.* You *will* learn to get along! You *will* learn to love one another! You *will* learn to honor the goddess Concordia!
 
 *Behind him, the mob comes back together, and continues fighting. The priest comes face to face with Ragus, and stops.* Uh .who are .you?????
 
Ragus: The mighty magician and philosopher Ragus, at your service. Want some of this wine?
 
Priest: No, thank you. My friend, you should go, now, to the baths, I think. You'll feel so much better. I'll help you.
 
Ragus: I just need more wine. Help me by getting me more wine, and I'll intercede with the Great ones so they won't kill you.
 
Priest: Kill me? Who wants to kill me? Looks around, confused. Oh, dear, am I in trouble again?
 
 *A Peregrinus stands in the entrance of an alley, watching avidly, whispering* "Burn, baby burn! Anybody got a match?
 
*From over head, the public address system first squeals, then hisses, and finally, the mellifluous voice of the Curule Aedile is heard saying:*
 
Ladies and Gentlemen, please take your seats, the races will recommence in 10 minutes.
 
 All: Race time! All exit, cheering, except Ragus.
 
Ragus: I tried to tell them, and I *really* need some more wine! Where's that nice girl? I'll ask her to get me some!




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POPPAEA SOLIN FELICITA: Good afternoon and welcome back to the final semifinal! It is a beautiful early fall afternoon, a slight warm breeze to take off the chill – but there are no fall colors – blue and white are the colors today! *her laughter is akin to tiny sweet bells* This is Poppaea Solin Felicita and I will be assisting V. Herminius Aquilinus, in any way he needs me to! Domina Julia and Domina Maria will be sitting this one out, as both have entries this race. And there they are! With that handsome tribune Petronius Dexter! He has curls to die for! Be still my heart!

*Vitus laughs gregariously and shakes his head*

*winks at Vitus, then purrs to the crowd* Did you hear that Vitus laugh? If I were him I would consider Petronius competition! *turns to Vitus* Don’t think the gossip about you and my dear friend Domina Julia seals the deal – I’ve know her for a long time…

VITVS: *laughing* I am not too worried; I think I can stand up to the competition – in that arena anyway!

SOLIN FELICITA: *with a wicked biting husky trill, twirls a lot of her strawberry blonde hair* Aw, so you’re saying that you’re the Domina’s horse even if you don’t ever win a race…

VITVS: *his stormy blue eyes flash* There is always next year, this was just practice – I am honored to have such a fine woman even take the slightest interest in me. She’s quite discerning and I hear she only shows interest in champions.

SOLIN FELICITA: *purzzzzzzzz, flirting, looks him up and down* Oh yes, she has always chosen well.

VITVS:*taking the high road, flashes her a grin* In friends as well. *looks on the field and Julia is waves at him, smiling*

SOLIN FELICITA: Why thank you Vitus, *than aside, away from the mike… and sarcastically* maybe when she is done with you we can explore some other options, if there is anything left of you…

VITVS: *leans forward seductively, curls his lips into a smile, a lock of his blonde streaked hair falls lazily forwards, and whispers away from the mike* When the sunrises in Hades I may consider it.

SOLIN FELICITA: *turns away and rolls her eyes, into the mike*
The troika are making their way around the track, one for the last time this Ludi – beautiful wreaths adorn the steeds, the agitatores are dignified and animated; waving and smiling!  This last semi-final is a highly competitive race; in post position is the Ventrus Albus driven by Hermannus of the Albatae owned by Domina Maria Caeca, second is the Vita Brevis driven by the lovely but tough as nails Aiofe of the Silures for the Albatae owned by Senator Marinus *flashes a teasing grin to Vitus*, but on loan to Domina Julia Aquila, in third is Incitatus driven by Stolo for the Venetae and owned by C. Petronius Dexter.
Well omnes they have arrived back at the ostia are in position in the carceres and it appears as though Aedile Julia Aquila is getting ready to start this semifinal race!

The trumpets sound the signal, Aedilis Julia Aquila drops the mappa to the ground!

The ostia are sprung!

Missi sunt currus! 

They're off!

VITUS: It’s Vita Brevis out in front, its quadrigae are rested and their stride is easy and effortless! Hermannus in the Ventrus Albus is staying close to the spina and taking his time, and Stolo in Incitatus is in no hurry either. This almost seems like a training lap compared to earlier races in this Ludi and Incitatus pulls alongside the Vita Brevis on the outside but is making no aggressive actions. As the second dolphin turns the horse are pounding the sand down the first stretch and Incitatus takes the lead and crosses in front of Hermannus close to the spina coming way to close to the Ventrus Alba’s quadrigae making the team shy a bit. Hermannus is not taking it! As they head into the last turn of the second lap he moves to the right squeezing the Vita Brevis further to the outside and thunders around Incitatus nearly making him crash into the spina, Vita Brevis takes advantage of the distraction and takes the lead position as the third dolphin turns and heads down the first stretch of the third lap taking a clear lead on the inside. Stolo and Hermannus are tussling over position! Their wheels have met! *screeching, shouting and cussing ensues from the two male drivers* Incitatus and Ventrus Albus are neck in neck and are veering into each other as they head into the first turn of the final lap! Vita Brevis is already half way down the first stretch of the final lap and Aiofe is not looking back, she is focused and running her race with precise skill and confidence! Hermannus shouts a command to his steeds and the big animals pull away from Incitatus! He is racing towards the final turn but the Vita Brevis has already negotiated it and is on the final stretch! Hermannus is a man on a mission and is pulling alongside the Vita Brevis; they are neck in neck as they head for a blanket finish – a photo finish! *shouts, whistles, confetti, boos fill the circus*
It is Ventrus Albus driven by Hermannus of the Albatae owned by Domina Maria Caeca in first place by a hair! Vita Brevis driven Aiofe of the Silures for the Albatae owned by Senator Marinus, on loan to Domina Julia Aquila is a close second and Ludi Novi Romani champion Incitatus driven by Stolo for the Venetae and owned by C. Petronius Dexter is in last place and disqualified for the finals!
GOING TO THE FINALS IS VENTRUS ALBUS DRIVEN BY HERMANNUS OF THE ALBATAE IN FIRST PLACE AND VITA BREVIS DRIVEN BY AIOFE OF THE SILURES ALSO FOR THE ALBATAE IN SECOND PLACE!
CONGRATULATIONS! SEE YOU IN THE FINALS!!!!!!!!!!

SOLIN FELICITA: We will see you all tomorrow night for the final race!
*turns the mike off and turns to Vitus, and teases seductively* Just got an invite for the both of us to a party at Consul Albucius, of course it looks like Julia will be so in demand tonight she wouldn’t even know you were gone – how about you and I go party hopping…

Vitus leans back in his chair and smiles at her, a twinkle in his eye, knowing she “belongs” to Consul Quintilianus, at least for this night but then relaxes to a tender touch behind his shoulder. He knows that touch so well, the warm lips that kiss the side of his neck and the gentle caress as Julia gently presses her body into his back and weaves her arms loosely on his chest, he raises his hands to take hers and holds Felicita’s gaze and mouths ‘no contest’*

JVLIA: Po, behave, as the song goes “you can’t always get what you want.”

*They all laugh and head off towards the parties*

Narratio resumetur…
To be continued…




©Aquila (Note the Ritual in smaller text and within the borders is free domain, INTERMISSIO [within borders] is © C. Maria Caeca)

Part IV Ludi Romani Magna Circenses 11Sept2010: FOURTH QUARTERFINAL A Modernized Roman Fiction

EX OFFICIO AEDILIS P. ANNAEI L. IVLIAE

LVDI ROMANI 2763 AVC  FOVRTH QVARTERFINAL


This day of the Ludi, 11Sept2010 is dedicated to MARS.

After the Pompa, on a day of clear blue skies and as magnificent as the days before, the ritual to Mars commences.


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Sacrum Marti

SALUTATIO

“Hail Father Mars and hail You immortal Gods ! Come, come (Gods), take in this ceremony, and protect it!

PRAECATIO

“Father Mars, guardian of our success, even as You led the legions of our forefathers to bring Romanitas to the ancient world, lead us that we may spread the benefits of Romanitas yet further. I beseech You that You rightly guide us in our actions and take into Your holy embrace Your sons and daughters of Nova Roma. I beseech You that with Salus and Concordia You heal our conflicts, unite us in a common purpose, and with victorious success increase the dignity of Nova Roma.”

SACRIFICATIO

Father Mars, to You deservedly I give thanks. Mars Gravidus, look down and preserve us! I do beseech you by your good genius, come forth (down to us)! No longer keep us in suspense! Father Mars, we come before You this day with open hearts, pure and chaste.  By these offerings we seek to honor You. May You hear us, O Mars, and may You honor us this day with your presence.  As You have so often (before), so (now) accept (these) offerings and bless our community.
Father Mars, by offering this incense to You I pray good prayers, so that You may be propitious to me to our sacerdotes, to the Senate and to the People of Nova Roma. Father Mars, as by offering to You the incense virtuous prayers were well prayed, for the sake of this be honored by this small portion of wine. Accept (our) libations and send upon us Your kind thoughts. May You grant Nova Roma concord and a richness of life!
“Father Mars, may You be strengthened by this libation, may You be honored by this wine. In You, dearest Father, in Your hands do we place our safekeeping.”

LITATIO

Mars Gravidus, to You I give thanks. Father, while offering incense to You virtuous prayers were prayed well, for the sake of this be honored by this small portion of wine.

PERLITATIO

“No more, Gods on High, do I ask of You today; it is enough.”
“Thus it is done. May all the Gods above and below always love you and wish you happiness in all that is good.”
“May the immortal Gods make it so, as fortunate as it is pious.”



IVLIA: Quirites, Socii, Peregrinisque welcome to the continuation of the Ludi Circenses, this is your commentator L Julia Aquila. With me is V. Herminius Aquilinus who is most well known as the Charioteer Vitus who has returned to Rome after many years in Liguria to race for the first time for the Albatae and who has been graciously treating us to his commentary on the races.
Today we have a very special race for the Fourth Quarterfinal. There are only two chariots in this race but they are both formidable. The wildly popular Stolo, *the crowd booms with support* last year’s winner driving Incitatus for the Venetae and owned by esteemed Tribune C. Petronius Dexter is pitted against C. Maria Caeca’s Procella Nivosa driven by Arienrhod for the Albatae!

Many Thanks go to the Cornelii for the wonderful and well tended buffet in the commentators’ box and also for providing the feasts and refreshments for today’s special quarterfinal!


*white “snow” seems to issue from the cheering and the sky is awash in white and blue confetti, Maria’s supporters surround her and keep her glass with filled with Falerian, Hermannus by her side, while Petronius assisted by Aiofe tends to his interests and maintains a post close to the track as his charioteer Stolo makes sure all is well. Petronius’ excitement is very evident even though he has been quiet this Ludi*

The trumpets sound the signal, Placidus drops the mappa to the ground; the ostia are sprung!

Missi sunt currus! 

They're off!



VITVS: Out of the gate Stolo guides the Incitatus into a steady trot apparently not being overly concerned that the Procella Nivosa guided by Arienrhod is passing him, but also at a steady pace. It is important to note that these horses, even when going their fastest are actually trotting and not galloping which is difficult, if not dangerous, in yoke and harness.  This kind of trotting, racing trotting, can be just as fast and is a sign of a well trained hot blood.
Before the Procella Nivosa can get ahead the Incitatus maneuvers into first place as they race down the stretch before the second lap.
The dolphin turns into the second and Arienrhod is amidst a red cloud of sand and pounding hooves, she is reaching into her waist sash and throws something towards Stolo!
A blade is sticking out of his forearm!
Without slowing his pace he pulls it out and tosses it to the side, not even glancing back at her, a spray of blood washing over him. The steeds of the Procella Nivosa are quite lathered as she presses them harder to catch up with the Incitatus who is not maintaining a steady pace as the third dolphin turns.
Arienrhod has caught up with Incitatus midway in the first stretch of the third lap, she violently pushes him close to the spina – oh by the Gods there is an overturned sausage cart in the way!
Stolo’s steeds jump the cart and the Incitatus flies over it tipping forwards and knocking Stolo over the front-piece!
*loud collective gasp from the crowd*
Stolo is holding on but he if he falls at that speed he will be trampled by the hind quarters of his horses and run over by the chariot!
He recovers using all his strength!
Stolo has pulled himself back over the chariot! His well trained steeds have astonishingly maintained pace and position close to the spina!
The fourth dolphin is turned; the Incitatus is on the heels of the Procella Nivosa and is leaving the inside to pass her!
She gives him a derogatory hand movement and he smiles a chilling smile as he pulls up next to her and swings the Incitatus into the Procella Nivosa sandwiching it between him and the spina. A wheel of Procella Nivosa lifts on a small rise while the Incitatus thunders away with ease leaving the other chariot dangerously tipping into the center.
OOOOOHHHH and the Procella Nivosa is down!
Her right wheel has tipped and splintered into pieces!
Arienrhod has rolled to the ground and is lying very still!
Stolo, driving Incitatus as if he is being chased by hellhounds is racing towards the finish as his fans go crazy!
He is awash in an ocean of blue matter issuing from every corner of the Circus!
INCITATUS DRVEN BY STOLO FOR THE ALBATAE OWNED BY TRIBUNE C. PETRONIUS DEXTER GOES TO THE SEMI-FINALS!!!!!!!!!!

*The crowds begin to stomp and cheer in deafening continuous waves, clouds of blue confetti and blue flowers shower down from the highest bleachers, the big screen is nearly obliterated in a sea of blue*

This has been some race today omnes! We just had word that Arienrhod is battered and may have a few broken bones but she will recover. Her husband Hermannus and her owner C. Maria Caeca are by her side. The hot-walkers are busy ministering to and walking the overtaxed steeds of the Procella Nivosa to prevent shock and pneumonia.

Congratulations to C. Petronius Dexter! And to Stolo and the quadrigae of the Incitatus! There is a joyous celebration going on by the gates and there will be many feasts tonight in anticipation for the semi-finals.

JVLIA: This has been an exciting and terrifying race cives and peregrines! But there is more to come!
The line up for the first semifinals are in post position the Drunas driven by Nervia for the Albatae owned by Consul Albucius, then Tempestas Noctis driven by Nicodemus the Thracian for the Venetae owned by Statia Cornelia Æternia then Luxogenes driven by Eporicus for the Albatae and Fulminata driven by Lucius Furius owned by A. Vitellius Celsus for the Venetae.
For the second semifinal in post position is Ventrus Albus driven by the flaxen haired Hermannus for the Albatae owned by C. Maria Caeca, Vita Brevis driven by Aiofe of the Silures for the Albatae on loan to Iulia Aquila, me, by Cn. Equitius Marinus and Incitatus driven by Stolo for the Venetae owned by C. Petronius Dexter.

VITVS: The Circus will be closing early today to prepare for the semifinals but the forums, the marketplace and the main streets will be ready to receive you, you guests and citizens of Rome! The Horatii are providing the feast and refreshments until dark! Be safe and see you at the semi-finals where anything is possible! Feasting and endless refreshments at the semi-finals will be provided by my kin, the Herminii!
*he turns to Julia, his azure eyes twinkling*
Domina, are you ready to party meum corculum?
JVLIA: *teases Vitus* Sane, meum delicium! But first we must stop in the carceres so I can examine Arienrhod and prescribe unguents and herbs – also to make sure her bones are set properly, there has been a lot of drinking today.
*makes a salutation to the masses*
Omnes, see you at the races!

Narratio resumetur…
To be continued…



©Aquila (Note the Ritual in smaller text and within the borders is free domain)