EX OFFICIO AEDILIS P. ANNAEI L. IVLIAE
L. Iulia Aquila omnibus civibus S.P.D.
Welcome to the SECOND and THIRD Quarterfinal!
JULIA: Welcome Quirites, Socii, Peregrinisque to the Ludi Romani 2010 Second Quarterfinals this morning and to the Third Quarterfinals to commence this afternoon after a program of entertainment at the intermessio! I am Julia Aquila, your commentator this morning and with me in the broadcasting box is Domina Maria Caeca, Charioteer Vitus and an old friend and local celebrity, Balbus Gallus Hilarius, owner of the premier beauty salon, the Inner Peacock.
GALLVS HILARIVS: *rolls his eyes and does a neck shake* Oh honeee, I do see many who could use a good trim, those split ends are horrible this time of year, esp after such a hot summer! *waves the bright peach scarf tied at his wrist over the crowd as if blessing them with magic stylist dust* I am soooo glad to be here, thank you Domina Julia! *assesses Vitus from top to bottom approvingly purses his lips and winks at him*
Oh Snap! Look at all those red, white and blue flags and pom-poms of the factiones, you would think we are in the United States or something!
JVLIA: *with a soft laugh continues* It is a cool crisp morning as the last of the day’s Pompa is coming through the gates, and I must say each day is at least as magnificent as opening day. There are few Cumulonimbus clouds that resemble a master artist’s brushstroke against the clear blue skies. The track is in great condition for the race, the horses look magnificent as do the charioteers. The impressive Teutonicus has a magnificent sky blue body is appointed with blazing thunderbolts! Maria, welcome back Domina! Tell me do you have any favorites in this race?
MARIA: *bursts into laughter as she watches Gallus ham it up for the crowd while he touches up his peach lipstick* Well Julia amica, you know I am partial to redheads; that seething fury of Ulfilas Gothus is intimidating, particularly when he dons that scowl on his face. I was watching him while he was taking practice laps with his steeds and he seems to have the right touch. *she blushes* I noticed earlier this year his tight muscles make him a perfect master over his steeds but to the others he does not hesitate to use his whip. He has a good chance but alas I am loyal to the Albatae and Eporicus should do us proud.
JVLIA: *sweetly asks a servant boy to bring Maria a goblet of fruited water* I see your point Maria. I also remember that Gothus has a bad temper and it is said his patron is the only person he won’t confront with his fists or whips.
MARIA: You remember well Domina, the other drivers say “don't make Gothus angry, unless you and 3 of your friends want a good fight”.
JVLIA: I, myself, am partial to Gauls *sweeps her eyes teasingly towards Vitus* and Lucius Furius is looking really good, at practice that is, and has a promising record so being objective, I must say I would put my money on him. *leaning over the edge of the booth to watch the festivities, she turns her head towards Vitus unconsciously fingering her long golden French braid enquiring* And what say you Vitus?
VITVS: *smiles as he rises and saunters over to Julia close enough for only a breath to pass between them, holding her gaze with his own he speaks into the proffered mike* Domina, I can only attest to the horses and…
VITVS: As I was saying Domina, *casts a good humored warning at Gallus* For the Lusitania, Ducaliter is a wonderfully strategic driver, he prefers to conserve the enrgy of his team biding his time until he goes all out and his horses become as swift as lightening. Vitellius Celsus’ steeds are superb, as all are, but I just have a feeling about them. There is tough competition our there this morning, the Russata have good horseman manning their chariots but Gothus and Epicorus are also top men.
GALLVS HILARIVS: And I am a bottom…
*They all burst into laughter*
JVLIA: On that note let’s return to the activities down on the Circus. The Consuls are in their skyboxes with their families; Domina Albucius is looking absolutely exquisite standing next to the smiling Consul. Consul Quintilianus is with another striking woman today, and a pair of regal Salukis. Oh there is Agricola *waves at him* taking his place in the pulvinar next to Sabinus splendid in a purple and gold toga picta, also in the pulvinar I see Scholastica and Venator chatting away – he said something that made her laugh!
MARIA: It is wonderful to see Novi Romani enjoying themselves! Isn’t Audens looking well? In the stands Varro and Nero are climbing quite high! There is the ever charming C. Cocceius Spinula who is waving at the crowd, surrounded by ladies!
Look Julia our friend Petronius is waving at us!
*Julia smiles brightly at her friend and waves vigorously*
GALLVS HILARIVS: Fird of all sistuh, your frock is too low cut to be waving that hardily and second of all its too low cut to be leaning over the edge like that! Mercy me Domina. *Julia shakes her head at him but he suddenly gets distracted* Now there’s three fine looking men, Gaulterus, Sentius Leoninus and Servilius Priscus, oh damn, wouldn’t you know it, they are with Octavia Aculeo, well she is pretty, I would be in her company too – would love to get my hands on her hair!
MARIA: *laughing* Now where were we? Back to the drivers, Consul Albucius’ Eporicus typically conserves his horses’ energy maintaining a steady pace until the final dash to the finish.
VITVS: His has demonstrated subtle and exact skill. He went all the way to the finals last year so he has a good chance.
JULIA: I didn’t know you paid attention to what is going on in Rome.
VITVS: *smiling gregariously* There is so much for you discover about me.
JVLIA: I am more of an inquisitor than an explorer *she casts a wicked little smile his way* There seems to be some commotion down on the field, usually they have all the statues of the Gods in place by this time. Oh no! One of Rota’s hogs got loose! The mimes are chasing it! Rota is yelling a string of expletives at it *the crowd cheers and hoots, streams of confetti flow from the highest bleachers* two more hogs are loose!
VITVS: I will be back momentarily I am going to down to help! *he excitedly leaps over the chairs between him and the doorway and lopes down the stairs*
GALLVS HILARIVS: *whispers quietly and nonchalantly while he devours Vitus with his eyes* no, no, don’t go… *takes a glass of Falerian to Maria and Julia the helps himself to glass, his voice back to normal volume* Now mel meum this is what I came to see, muscle bound sweaty men wrestling…
MARIA: With pigs? *she and Julia burst into giggles*
*Servitors quietly arrive carrying silver trays laden with culinary delicacies and all manner of beverages. Vitus returns, wet from a quick outdoor shower to wash off the dust from chasing down the hogs, he is handed a large goblet of Falerian and relaxes into a chair*
JVLIA: I see that that the Magistrates, Placidus, Sacerdotes, Flamens and Pontifices are assembling, the beautifully appointed statues are being moved into place the will be calling for silentum soon.
MARIA: In post position is Albata’s Luxogenes, driven by Eporicus and owned by Consul Albucius, than Russata’s Fulminata driven by Lucius Furius owned by A. Vitellius Celsus. Next is Veneta’s Furor Teutonicus driven by Ulfilas Gothus owned by C. Tullius Valerianus and farthest is the Russata’s Lusitania, driven by Ducaliter and owned by C. Cocceius Spinula. Valerianus is examining his rig while his uxor, Valeria Pulchra is waving blue flags and pom-poms!
GALLVS HILARIVS: I just looovvveeeee all the colors and the glitter! I could live in a waterfall of color, we should have Circenses everyday! * he continues to gush for a few seconds* And Missy Domina, why are you not performing the ritual today?
JVLIA: Because I am not scheduled to! Hush up now Gallus; oh for the sake of Venus, stop pouting, you are such a queen! Put a sausage in your mouth, that should pacify you
*Maria and Vitus snicker, Gallus crosses his legs at the knee swinging his foot indignantly, pouts, sticks his chin in the air and begins to eat a sausage*
They are ready to begin the ritual; they have just called for silentum.
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Sacrum Iunoni
SALUTATIO
Hail, Great Goddess eternal, shining, most chaste Juno, Mother, whose sanctity is pleasing to the hearts of the Gods, You are the brilliant lily whom Jupiter cherished before all others. You are the Great Goddess, Queen of the Gods. You, Goddess, we adore. We invoke Your presence among us. Come. Make what we ask to be readily and easily accomplished, and draw our thanks, divine Juno, that, in fidelity, You do rightly merit. Juno, as it is prescribed for you in those books – and for this reason may every good fortune attend the cultores Deorum, the Quirites – let sacrifice be made to You, I beg and pray.
Wherever You may be in the ethereal regions, O wife of Jupiter Tonans, be present O Queen of the Heavenly Gods, we Your chaste daughters pray and beseech You.
PRAECATIO
O Juno Capitolina, Celestial Queen of Mighty Jupiter, whether You are worshipped and adored in the temples of Samos, or whether You are called upon singularly by women as Lucina in their tearful moment of giving birth, Your glory is nourished. You dwell in ancient temples, whether at haughty Carthage where they celebrated Your journey from heaven on the back of a lion, or whether in Your temple beside the riverbanks of Argos where You are celebrated as the wife of thundering Jupiter Tonans and as Queen of the Gods. Famous among the Greeks whose walls You defend, You who all the east venerates as Life-giving Zoegia, who all the west names Lucina, may You be present, Juno Sospita, Savior of women, who lends Her assistance to women who are pregnant when their health is in danger.”
SACRIFICATIO
Savior Juno, in offering to You this incense I pray good prayers that You may favor us, our children, our households and our homes.
Queen of Heaven, in offering You this moretum, I pray with a sincere heart that You will be pleased with this offering of moretum, and may You look kindly on us and on our children, on our homes and our households.
Juno Capitolina, may You be strengthened by this libation, may You be honored by this milk. In You, dearest Mother, in Your hands do we place our safekeeping.”
LITATIO
Juno Sospita, Juno Lucina, to You I pray and venerate, Juno Capitolina, Guardian Mother of the City of Rome, to You I give thanks. In offering incense to You virtuous prayers were well prayed, for the sake of this be honored by this portion of milk and honey.
PERLITATIO
“No more, Juno Lucina, do I ask of You today; no more do I call upon You, Juno Sospita, it is enough.”
“Thus it is done. May all the Gods above and below always love you, cultores Deorum, 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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MARIA: A beautiful ritual to be sure. The crowd is rushing to get last minute food and drink before the race begins. The agitatores for the second quarterfinals are finishing with their preparations and attending to last minute tasks. The agitatores are rechecking their harnesses, chariots, wheels and horses. The chariots are pristine and gleaming, the impressive agitatores are dressed in their colors.
JVLIA: *starts to chuckle* I am not believing this – Aeternia again took possession of Cato’s and Sulla’s iphones yet they are not to be daunted! Look at the huge monitor! It has focused on the two of them scribbling furiously on wax tablets and sending messages via a long line of swift footed messengers to the forum! There is Aeternia marching towards them in her magnificent cloak of blue feathers…
GALLVS HILARIVS: he muhmf thch [unintelligible because he’s masticating] (translation: oooo girl, that coat is fantabulous!)
JVLIA: Oh my! Aeternia is tugging on Cato’s tablet and he is holding on for dear life! But she is woman, hear her roar and she now possesses that tablet, Sulla gives it up without a fight. *laughs* She appears to be handing the tablets to the trash collector…but wait; she is gathering an adorable infant white tiger in her arms.
MARIA: Oh that is Invidia!
JVLIA: As agreed upon last night, I would like to announce that Vitus will be commentator on the race *the crowd cheers in affirmation*
VITVS: The agitatores are soothing their excited teams and are preparing to make the procession
*the crowds begin to shout and cheer once again*
The troika of chariots are making their way around the track; the steeds, each with a floral or herbal wreath at their neck, are bucking and prancing in anticipation, a good sign, giving quite a show aaannddd they are ready to run!
Missi sunt currus!
They're off!
It’s Albata’s Eporicus driving Luxogenes who pulls out ahead hugging the inside using his post position to the best advantage but surging out ahead is Russata’s Ducaliter guiding the Lusitania almost neck in neck with the Luxogenes and cutting off the wild Goth, Ulfilas Gothus who takes after him in a blaze of fury!
!!!!Observa quo vadis, cinaede (Watch where you're going, you jerk)!!!!! he shouts! Gothus snaps his whip at Ducaliter missing him by hair, but Ducaliter is so focused he pays no attention!
The three agitatores are moving in one unit connected by a cloud of red dust! The hortatores are busy trying to keep the steeds on track with commands and whistles! Trotting at a respectable distance is Russata’s Lucius Furius who seems to be saving his steed’s strengths for the final laps. Eporicus is cutting it way tooo close to the spina in an effort to get away from the pack closing in on him and…
*the crowds rise in a wave in the stands, Vitus jumps ups and leans over the balcony shouting*
Ducaliter passes Eporicus; he cuts him off and is in the lead by the spina!!!!
Gothas’ whip connects with the shoulder of Eporicus forcing him into the spina behind Ducaliter!!!!
Gothas goes wide and comes along side Ducaliter, raising his whip with his massive arm but Ducaliter is quicker with his own whip and catches Gothas on the side of his face! Blood is raining over the agitatores behind him!
“!!!!!!!!!! Caro putrida est (you are dead meat) !!!!!!!!!!!” he snarls loudly at Ducaliter but is cut off before he can say another word! Eporicus sways his into the Furor Teutonicus and forces him to the outside barely gaining control of his horses!
*shouts over the cacophony of the crowd, the drums, the tintinabulum,*Citizens of Rome we are witnessing gladiators in Chariots!!!!!
As we enter the second lap the dolphin is turned and it is Ducaliter in the lead for the Russatae, Eporicus not far behind for the Albatae, a furious Gothus for the Venetae in third in third and Furius for the Russatae with a “what me worry?” attitude staying close to the spina and keeping an easy pace in last, he is biding his time before he makes a move that one. Gothus with blood streaming over his face and matted in his red hair urges his steeds to run wide open and the Venetae go wild as he takes lead! Ducaliter and Eporicus are so close their chariots are almost flush with each other! Their quadrigae are struggling to keep the chariots on course! The two agitatores are throwing punches at each other and appear to be connecting from time to time!!! Some of the spectators are also coming to fisticuffs, possibly Albatae and Russatae!!! What excitement!
OH BY HADES!!!! Eporicus appears to have pulled something from his fasciae, throwing at Ducaliter who almost lost his balance!
The two continue to battle as the dolphin is turned into the third lap!!!
Leading is Furor Teutonicus driven by Gothus who is yielding as little ground as he possibly can in an apparent effort to spare the energy of his already overtaxed stallions, tied in second the Luxogenes and Lusitania are wheel to wheel in a clouds of dust and sanguine!!!! Last we have almost forgotten about Fulminata’s Lucius Furius who is smiling and charming the Matronae and they are responding by showering him with heaps of red rose petals.
*a light sprinkling of rain begins to fall in a sun shower* Will this cool off our two hotheads?
Look!!! Look!! Up on the screen Ducaliter has broken away from Eporicus and is taking Gothus by surprise!
They are stomping in the stands! The sky is a sea of red!!!!!
A wave of sand as the Lusitania passes the Furor Teutonicus has momentarily stunned Gothus and Ducaliter takes the lead by two lengths.
I am afraid the wooden portions of the stands are going to collapse!
I am not sure if that is rain or the lathered sweat of the three lead quadrigae!
The dolphin is turned for the final lap and the Lusitania is in the lead! Furor Teutonicus is second, third is Luxogenes… *loud screams and shouts shake the circus, the monitor pans to the crowds, sanguine colored roses and poppies fills the air some faces and clothing are red with blood, people are cheering and no longer fighting* The magnificent power of it all! Lucius Furius is taking the Fulminata full speed; those magnificent animals have been simmering, waiting for a chance to surge ahead! Hooves pounding the ground, Russata’s Fulminata bypassing the others as they rush furiously down the last stretch! Fulminata’s team is nearly fresh; those mudlarks are unbothered by the rain as they cross the finish line into the winners circle winning by three lengths! We have to watch it on the monitor from up here because all we see is a red sea!!!!
Congratulations to owner A. Vitellius Celsus! Also to Lucius Furius for a brilliant race – he must have been paying attention to the tensions at the feasts last night!
Coming in second is the Lusitania driven by Ducaliter owned by C. Cocceius Spinula.
Third is Furor Teutonicus driven by Ulfilas Gothus, owned by C. Tullius Germanicus and last is Luxogenes driven by Eporicus and owned by Consul Albucius.
*Vitus shouts into the microphone, over the crowd*
FULMINATA OF THE RUSSATAE DRIVEN BY LUCIUS FURIUS AND LUSITANIA ALSO OF THE RUSSATAE DRIVIEN BY DUCALITER WILL BOTH GO ONTO THE SEMI-FINALS!!!!
*servants bring fresh Falerian for the four commentators*
MARIA: What a celebration at the podium! *over Vitus gregarious laughter* Oh my Ducaliter and Eporicus are attacking each other! Gothus has joined in the ruckus! The soldiers are trying to separate them! Oh my! All this in 50 feet of living color! Thank the Gods they cut to the Victory celebration for the Fulminata team at the podium! *waves to Lucius Furius* Oh that Lucius Furius is such a handsome man, he certainly looks the winner riding his lap of honor and greeting the spectators!
JVLIA: I do not think I have ever seen so much red. Well, I mean that which isn’t blood.
*Vitus glances over her raising his eyebrows with a teasing closed mouth smile *
What? I yam what I yam
*smiles and bares her sharp little cuspids*
GALLVS HILARIVS: Ooooo girllll, sometimes you just scare me to death! *speaks very sweetly to the servants* Would a couple of you be dears and bring us each a plate of food? I’m so famished I believe I am getting a case of the vapors!
*Maria begins to giggle, then Vitus and Julia join in*
JVLIA: THE INTERMESSIO HAS BEGUN! The crowd is clearly amused by the desultatores! Oh that looks dangerous…but so exciting!
*the desultatores, [acrobatic riders] perform stunts on horseback jumping form one to another while the crowd mills about getting refreshments, some are strolling to the stables to see which quadrigae look best so they are better informed to place their bets. The agitatores for the third quarterfinals are examining their horses and rechecking the tack and chariots.*
VITUS: The jugglers are juggling in time to the drums! Look at that one, he is on his hands and juggling with his feet! Oops. Ouch, that must’ve hurt.
JVLIA: There is my cousin Caesar talking to those drivers who did not win the last race, no doubt instructing them on the legal aspects of their actions. I hope they know they are in for a long night *laughs*, It’s a Iulian thing. * a servant boy brings her another goblet of Falerian* No thank you, could you bring me a fruited water please. I will never make it through the next race; Vitus might just have to carry me home.
VITVS: It will be my pleasure Domina * smiles flirtatiously*
JVLIA: No ma chere, I promise it will be MY pleasure. *smiles knowingly, takes the goblet of fruited juice from the servitor, Vitus laughs robustly*
MARIA: Look what is happening down by the bleachers, a reprobate is approaching two young girls! *she looks nervously towards the two soldiers guarding the entrance to their skybox and then to Vitus and Gallus* Could any of you move the thingy on the thingy so we could zoom in and see what is going on?
JVLIA: *rolls her eyes, rises from her chair and slowly strolls over to both Vitus and Gallus and takes the goblets from their hands while one of the legionnaires moves the cameras to focus in on the girls and the degenerate*
Ok, the both of you, no more wine – or beer – or anything else alcoholic, until after the next race.
*gives them both a dulcet smile * Can I get a yes Domina?
GALLVS HILARIVS: *dramatically throws his hand in the air from the wrist and performs a neck roll and ultra sweetly says* Yes, Girlfriend Domina…
VITVS: Thingy? *laughs and takes her into his arms and whispers* Yes Domina Amicule…
JVLIA: *peels herself away from the gorgeous man, her kaleidoscope eyes spitting lightening bolts*
I don’t *do* PDAs, *an evil smile blooms on her face * you need discipline! And you, Gallus, will be donning a ‘yolk’ before the night is over!
*Maria laughs in the background while Vitus gives Julia a decidedly seductive but challenging look*
*They all laugh and then turn their eye to ‘da big screen’ *
*In full living color an image flashes in the center of the big screen, the volume turned up over the various activities during halftime, although occasionally Tribune Rota is heard shouting frustratingly from one of his concession stands “una momento, madonna mia bah (something unintelligible), shissa!” in a combination of future languages*
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On the huge 50 ft X 108 feet RAGUS is finally getting enough attention to hopefully last him a lifetime (written in its entirety by our own ©C. Maria Caeca, Scene II is found in Part V Ludi Romani Magna ):
SCENE: 2 girls, Fantasia and Fantastica, are sitting on a bench, eating honey cakes and gossiping happily. Enter Ragus, dressed in a wine stained toga, which has been covered with every kind of amulet and charm ever seen, in Rome or in her provinces. In one hand, he clutches a half empty wine skin, and in the other, a blank scroll.
FANATASTICA: Oh, gods! Who is that person with the *really* strange toga and the dirty tangles hair?
RAGUS staggers to the girls; falls on his knees (sort of) before them, and gathers them into an embrace.
RAGUS: Oh, sweet children! You must listen to me! I am the mighty philosopher Ragus! I am the fearsome magician! (flaps arms) I can lift myself with a thought, and float above the rooftops of Rome! (sways violently, nearly pulling the girls off the bench). Hear me, daughters! I bring you terrible news! Hear me, and read my scroll!
FANATASTICA: Um, I don't see any writing!
RAGUS: Shah! It is magic writing, silly child! Of *course* you can't see it .it's invisible!
FANTASIA.then how can we read it? Oh, please, (moves over) sit on this bench between us, or we'll all end up on the ground!
RAGUS tries to get up, falls, pulling the girls onto the ground, on top of him.
GIRLS shriek: my tunica! My hair! Mother will kill me! STOP THAT!
*RAGUS clutches the girls closer, sound of fabric tearing) Listen sweet darlings! There is danger afoot! There is threat to Nova Roma, and to all
who dwell within these walls! Let me tell you. Hush, listen, I say!
GIRLS: (trying to pull away) What? We'll listen, but let us go! We can't breathe!
FANATASTICA: and you stink!
RAGUS (drinks some wine, while more spills down his front) Listen, then! there is a band of mighty magicians from our many Provinces, all working together. And they have soldiers, oh, yes, *soldiers*! Girl soldiers, who have only their swords and shields for clothing (drinks more) Ah, how beautiful! How dangerous! How. Ah, the girls!
FANATASTICA, leaning forward: What danger? What threat? Tell us!
RAGUS: They are upon a quest to find out if Rome and the Romans who dwell her are really Greeks in disguise! They will destroy the city! They will destroy the forum! Run away, run away!
FANATASTICA tears herself away: Oh, I must flee! I must run! This is terrible! This is the worst thing I ever heard! I will *never* be associated with Greeks! (runs away, shrieking, covering her head with one hand, holding her tunica together with the other).
RAGUS: I need more wine! Read my scroll, girl, and get me some wine!
FANTASIA pulls away: Get your own wine, you nasty old man! I must warn the city!
She runs off, screaming) We are under attack! We are accused of being GREEK! We are being investigated by magicians, with naked female soldiers!
(several senators stop their discussion and turn to face FANTASIA:
Sen. L. COSIFUS: naked girls?
SEN. Cn. JUCIUS: GREEKS? What Greeks? There are no Greeks here, stupid girl! (sits down on bench) Now, be a good little Plebeian footstool. My feet are tired from standing!
SEN. NICO looks behind Fantasia at Ragus, staggering toward them: What is *that*?
FANTASIA: Oh, gods! (runs away) Beware Romans! The great magicians think you are all Greeks in disguise! Run Run, before they decide to purify the city with fire and bad wine!
A determined looking priest strides across the forum, hears her words, and stops in front of FANTASIA; Quoi? (slaps her across the face) You impious brat! Bad wine is the worst sacrilege! Go make offering to all the gods at once! At ONCE! You are a bad girl! (preferably, this last should be in French, grin).
RAGUS stumbles off, while Fantasia begins to wail, and the senators shake their heads in amazement. Meanwhile, a dignified gentleman in a fine toga comes along, without haste, humming a ditty to himself, and smiling.
RAGUS accosts him: You must flee! You must flee! We're all Greeks in disguise, and the magicians will kill us!
GENTLEMAN: "Son, I don't know about *you*, but I'm Norse, so I'm safe, whatever happens. Here, have a bit of this Meade. It will do you good.
RAGUS slurps down the offered drink. His eyes roll up, and he crumbles into happy oblivion.
GENTLEMAN to SENATORS: I thought that would take care of him. Now, will someone please go fetch that child and get her home to her mother?
SENATORS pointing at one another: You do it!
In the distance, you can hear FANTASIA: the magicians are coming! The magicians are coming!
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*The four commentators are howling in laughter, however they cannot be heard because most of the circus are howling in laughter as well*
JVLIA: *resuming the commentary as time draws closer for the Third Quarterfinal* Looks like there will be no more rain, there are a few clouds in the sky and it is now a little cooler as we head into the afternoon hours. Everyone is invited for a festival after the next race. We are going to try out our new stadium lights.
Wait, this just in: I have been asked by the Consul to remind everyone that near the main gate of the Circus is a new Lamborghini and you may purchase tax deductible raffle tickets, the price depends upon which provincia you live in.
Back to the spectators who are growing a bit restive, my good friend Senator Marinus is relaxing in his skybox, one of his chariots will be racing today however it is on loan to me. As always he is well dressed, today in a Top Hat, his toga picta and red boots. I see Petronius has decided to stay for the third quarterfinals as well. Looking about I see one very tall man is… oh look-it! It’s the Tall Man! And he is doing tai chi! The crowd is really getting restless (esp. the Barbarians), some are stretching in their seats; others are standing up and calling to the vendors! The wonderful scents of the food are whetting their appetites!
So many activities increase appetites, for food and other delights.
*laughs*
The spectators in the Tall Man’s section are all performing Tai Chi with him!
Senator Severus sitting in his skybox with Senator Sabinus appears amused by this, and what is that he is eating? A bloody delicious steak tartar sandwich?
In yet another section Piscinus and Metullus are leading a “wave” – resplendent in their togas, what a great effect!
Hmmm Gens Iulius provided the free Wine and Mulsum this Intermessio; *said in a teasing tone*I hope they didn’t get into my uber-ancient unfathomable potions way down in the deepest sub cellar. C’est la vie I suppose, y’all.
But everyone seems to be having a good time and that is what counts.
*noticing the chariots are preparing for the race Julia announces*
WILL EVERYONE COMPLETE THEIR PURCHASES AND RETURN TO THEIR SEATS PLEASE!
MARIA: They really turned the volume up for that Julia, but they got the message. Listen to the sweet sound of the Citharists…
GALLVS HILARIVS: Sugah, really… I hope they don’t put peoples to sleep. Techno might be a better choice esp. after all the food them folks have been devouring.
MARIA: *chuckles @ Gallus*
The troika of chariots are beginning their procession around the track. The agitatores look phenomenal in their racing silks – oh my, see all those youths in tunics running alongside the chariots tossing red and white flowers onto the horse, drivers, and chariots!?!
In post position is Ventrus Albus driven by the handsome, cleanly shaven and newly married red-haired wonder Hermannus for the Albatae and owned by none other than myself! Each of the horses is wearing a soft light wreath of bay laurel, juniper, and violets. In second position is Rubidea driven by Barbarufa for the Russatae owned by M. Arminius Maior, in third position is Vita Brevis driven by the dark beauty Aiofe of Silures for Albatae, sponsor is the Domina of the Albatae factio, our Aedile Curules, L. Julia Aquila. Aiofe is on loan to Julia from Cn. Equitius Marinus. The steeds are sporting delicate wreaths of lily, myrtle and rose. In the fourth gate is Fulgor Castrensi driven by Micaelius Calceolarias for the Russatae owned by Tribune C. Aquillius Rota. His driver Micaelius Calceolarias is a guest driver for the Russatae as he is from a foreign team, Scuderium Ferrarium – makers of the little red Ferrari. I see an excited (when is he not excited) Rota by the carceres with his sons.
JVLIA: I was told an interesting story by the stable staff, Rota has ordered wreaths made for his quadrigae to honor his Patron God Mars and opted for cinnamon and peony – he left out the red clover because he was afraid it might distract the high strung hot-bloods, and rightly so – but he has ordered bails of the clover in anticipation of a win, so we may just see another red sea today! I do know one thing for sure, judging by the scent of those slow roasted hogs we will have a feast tonight no matter what the outcome!
Ladies and Gentleman, Maria and I shall be sitting back and watching this race – and also cheering on our chariots, so I now turn the microphone over to a Rome-town native, Vitus!
VITVS: Thank you Domina. Fine steeds this race and some very passionate and determined drivers! They have arrived back at the ostia!
The chariots are in position in the carceres! *the clamor from the stands is near riotous*.
The trumpets resound, Aedilis Curules Placidus drops the mappa to the ground; the ostia are sprung!
Missi sunt currus!
They're off!
All four of the chariots seem to be quite cautious as if they are out for a drive in the country!
Ventrus Albus’ Hermannus takes the lead closest to the spina but it is Micaelius Calceolarius driving Fulgor Castrensi who pulls out ahead casting a challenging mien Hermannus way and is leading the pack. Aiofe is driving her retired mentor’s chariot the Vita Brevis and she means to win, but she is keeping a steady pace scrutinizing the styles of the other drivers. Staying back is Rubidea driven by Barbarufa who does not seem to be in much of a hurry
The dolphin is turned as they head into the second lap and Fulgor Castrensi of the Russatae is out in front and edges near the spina as he heads down the straightaway unchallenged, moving up from the rear is Rubidea, also of the Russatae and is neck in neck with Vita Brevis of the Albatae. The crowd roars as a long time favorite Hermannus of the Albatae surges forward displacing Fulgor Castrensi and falls into first place, Vita Brevis passes on the outside and is now in second place as the dolphin is turned and they round the meta for the third lap. Up until now no one seemed eager to rush the pace this afternoon, the pace even and slow in relation to the last two races. The two chariots of the Albatae are out in front and Rubidea is in third place with Fulgor Castrensi last.
The Fulgor Castrensi picks up speed as it maneuvers around Rubidea on the last stretch of the third lap, but the Rubidea isn’t having any of it and Barbarufa swings his chariot into the Fulgor Castrensi! The metal on both wheels screech and I swear I smell something being scorched! The Fulgor Castrensi rocks back and forth from wheel to wheel and Micaelius Calceolarius leans back in his chariot pulling on the reins and putting pressure on the yoke in what appears to be an effort to hold back the quadrigae that appear frightened and are beginning to bolt! If he does not gain control he will never make it around the next turn. The crowds have come back to life and all manner of fruits and vegetation are issuing from the stands in addition to red and white flowers. Red and white flags and pom-poms are being waved madly! Coming down the last stretch of the third lap Micaelius Calceolarius gains control of his steeds but he looks like a spawn out of Hades, his face is twisted, his eyes are black fire and his coal black long hair floats eerily behind him! The dolphin has barely turned as he follows on the heels of Barbarufa, driver of the Rubidea! In the lead Ventrus Albus and Vita Brevis are neck in neck as they head into the final lap.
WHOA!!!! I CAN”T BELIEVE MY EYES!!!!! MICAELIUS CALCEOLARIUS JUST TRIED TO PULL BARBARUFA OUT OF HIS CHARIOT BUT IN A TWIST OF FATE BARBARUFA GRABBED THE BIG MAN’S ARM AND NEARLY TOSSED HIM FROM THE FULGOR CASTRENSI!!!!!
Barbarufa pulls the Rubidea away from the Fulgor Castrensi leaving the nearly out of control chariot far behind him and is racing to catch up to the two lead chariots. Aiofe puts the pressure on her steeds and passes the Ventrus Albus and she looks good for the win, a full lap and a half ahead of Hermannus’ Ventrus Alba! Rubidea is on the heels of Ventrus Albus and closing in fast! The Vita Brevis is thundering down the final stretch!
*Vitus is shouting over the crowd now*
AWWWW we may be looking at an upset as Hermannus’ steeds catch up to the Vita Brevis!
IT’S A BLANKET FINISH! Hermannus driving Ventrus Albus wins by the skin of his horses’ teeth! The Vita Brevis is a very close second, Rubidea right on the heels of the Vita Brevis in third and Fulgor Castrensi last with Micaelius Calceolarius cussing and threatening Barbarufa! The legionnaires are in place to avert a melee like after this morning’s race. Rota runs to Micaelius Calceolarius and whisks him away to calm him down!
THE THIRD QUARTERFINAL WINNERS ARE, IN FIRST PLACE VENTRUS ALBA DRIVEN BY HERMANNUS FOR THE ALBATAE AND IN SECOND PLACE VITA BREVIS DRIVEN BY AIOFE, ALSO FOR THE ALBATAE! THEY GO ONTO THE SEMI-FINALS!
In third place is Rubidea driven by Barbarufa and in last place is Fulgor Castrensi driven by Micaelius Calceolarius.
It looks like it is snowing! *he picks up Julia and swings her around, all in the commentators booth are hugging, laughing and joyous!* congratulations Julia * he them picks up Maria giving her a great big kiss on her nose, swings her around before gently putting down* Congratulations Domina *he bows to them both*
JVLIA: Thank you all for coming to the Ludi Romani Circenses today! Please help yourself to all the food and drink you desire!!!!!
We’ll see you for the Fourth Quarterfinal 11Sept2010
VITVS: *ignoring Gallus, Vitus offers one arm to Julia and the other to Maria* Come Ladies, let’s go meet your winners and enjoy the rest of the evening. *they start walking towards the door with the two legionnaires following them for their safety, Vitus turns to Gallus* C’mon, we wouldn’t leave you alone, but both these ladies are with me! You have to get your own!
GALLVS HILARIVS: *Gallus laughs* don’t take offense, I love both you ladies but you are just not my type, I have my eye on this handsome fire dancer who is in need of a shave and a good styling…
To be continued…
©Aquila (Note the Ritual in smaller text and within the borders is free domain, INTERMISSIO [within borders] is © C. Maria Caeca)
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