Personal History
Marcus Atrius Merula is a new man in Rome. He comes from a higher class plebeian family living upon the Aventine hill in Roma, the heart of trade and commerce in the city, his father was a wealthy merchant living off the spoils of the wars against the other Italian states.
When Marcus was 18 he left to join the army as a volunteer, something almost unheard of in today's army, although that is changing gradually. Thus, he is a career soldier and has lived almost his entire life so far by the sword in defence of the Senate and People of Rome. Through his time with the legions, Marcus has made his own name by coming up through the ranks being promoted to senior centurion in one of the legions fighting against Phyrrus. He was awarded the Corona Civica for gallantry and protecting the lives of fellow citizens at the battle of Asculum. Thus, he has become well known in the Plebeian areas of the city, especially in the Aventine, where his words hold particular sway amongst the populace.
Upon returning home he found that his house was all but empty, his wife Lucia (whom he briefly married before he left for the eagles) died giving birth to his son, Gaius. The most heart wrenching news however is that his father and brother have just perished from a plague that swept over the east side of Rome just 3 weeks before he returned. Of his once large family, only Marcus's mother Vibia, his son Gaius and himself remain.
His peculiar cognomen "Merula", meaning blackbird, was given to him by the soldiers under his command whilst he was a centurion. This is because of his brooding black moods that sometimes took him, and also the product of his fighting ability, agile but terribly destructive.
Politics
He fought against Phyrrus, but in those battles he witnessed things that made him rethink his views regarding the republic. So many men died, just trying to take that man down (which in the end they failed at doing) and Marcus now believes that maybe there should be someone stronger to lead the SPQR, rather than a bunch of old men who can’t make the right decisions at the appropriate times. At 36 years old he harbours no ambition to be this man, but he came home to try and make a difference in Rome itself, and maybe he will get a seat on the senate floor?
Temperament and Ideals
Marcus is a patient, quiet man that rarely loses his head in an argument. He is calm and collected, but can be utterly ruthless at times (a product of twenty or so years in the army).
Marcus centers his life round one set of morals, "honour is everything". He does not care for money or power, just to keep his family name intact and respected, and if money and power come with that, he will not complain.
He is one of the most loyal and trustworthy men in Roma; if you can't count on anyone else, come to the house of the blackbird.
Political Offices Held
484AVC - Tribunis Plebis
485AVC - Senior Consul
Ongoing Information
Marcus's son Gaius has recently left the house for the army, rebelling against his father's wishes to serve as a Tribune he has enlisted as a Miles in the Hastati.
Marcus has recently formed an unofficial alliance with Lucius Aurelius Lepidus, becoming a client of the man.
Gaius was promoted to the Principes in the battle of Taras.
Marcus has put his name down for the election of the People's Tribune.
Gaius was promoted to the Triarii after the siege of Bononia.
Marcus left on a diplomatic mission to Syracuse and Messana
Soon after his promotion to the Triarii, Gaius was again lifted up to the position of Junior Tribune after the death of the old one at Bononia
Marcus signed a treaty of mutual friendship with Syracuse on the behalf of the Senate, only to have all his work destroyed by the rampaging Consul Corvenus.
Marcus has now returned to Roma, the embodiment of righteous fury, determined to punish those who have wronged him.
Marcus has just been elected to Tribune of the People, and is very proud of his achievement!
Gaius returned home to Roma, spent some time with his friend Caius Sophus (now Scaeva) then left again for the legions on the Consul's expedition north.
Lucius Aurelius Lepidus - Is his unofficial patron, the man who sponsored him to be inducted into the Senate, to whome Marcus owe's much.
Tiberius Cornelius Victor - Marcus likes this man, he seems a quite philosopher but has a good sense of humour that appeals to Marcus, this man has partially changed his oppinion of Patricians. One of Marcus' closest friends.
Spurius Horatius Lurco - Marcus does not know much about this man, he is yet to make his judgement on what kind of man Lurco is. He seems to mean well.
Aulus Licinius Caldius - Marcus does not harbour much respect for this man, the way he is constantly vetoing important decisions and only wanting self gain. He believes however that he may be a good ally in the short term to get rid of Corvenus.
Flavius Julius Corvenus - It is now evident to Marcus that this man has no honour, and is willing to sacrifice all to achieve his politcal ambitions, and as a result he calls this man a friend no longer (though he keeps the pretence of friendship for now). Marcus believes it is for the good of the Res Publica that this man be brought down.
Lucius Valerius Poplicola - Somewhat of a loose cannon in Marcus's eyes, a man that will never be controlled by any man or Senate. He could make a good ally but could also be very dangerous at the same time. Marcus agrees with the man's military reforms.
Tiberius Basiliscus Atellus - This man is well meaning, but maybe does not have the fire in him to stand up to some of the more hard line Senators, he is also loyal to the Valerii which could pose problems if Poplicola becomes an enemy...
Lucius Neavia Imperious -Marcus respects this fellow Plebeian, although he dislikes his approach to dealing with conquered peoples. He believes Imperious has done a good job at Tribune this term.
Marcus Sempronius Sophus - Marcus respects this friend of his late father, and recognises he has a sound financial understanding, something that the Res Publica needs. His ties to Corvenus may prove an annoyance when Corvenus is tried before the Senate. A good friend of Marcus nonetheless.
Titus Ambrosius Varus - Marcus likes this Patrician and thinks his daughter may be a good match for his son.
Servius Muncius Septimus - Marcus believes this man a foolish gods-fearer who lets the divine mark his every step, a dangerous association putting all ones faith in the invisible.
Flavius Furius Fusus Brenianus- This mad Gaul is the subject of much amusement to Marcus, and he is finding himself starting to like the man.
Lucius Taedius Bubulcus - Marcus does not have much to do with this man yet.
Sextius Aietius Africanus - Marcus does not have much to do with this man yet.
Appius Rufius Crispus - Marcus does not have much to do with this man yet.
Decimus Maximus Olympicus - Marcus does not have much to do with this man yet.
Last edited by Merula; September 07, 2011 at 07:00 AM.
Marcus is seated in a chair in the courtyard of his domus, regarding a certain mosaic on the floor. It depicts some ancient battle in Roma; a sole roman soldier holding a bridge against hundreds of greeks, while senators behind him cut down the bridge to save the city from this greek horde.
Muttering to himself, What a shame it is that there is no one like this in the senate anymore, a man that would give his life for the republic!
He is broken out of his revere by a slave running breathless out into the courtyard
Dominus! Dominus Marcus! It is your mother, the Domina, she has awoken!
Marcus jumps up, pushing past the slave (who falls over into the garden) and runs up the stairs to see his mother. He walks into the room to find his mother in exactly the same position she has been in for the entire time he has been home, bedridden with a severe fever, her servant tending to her night and day with a wet cloth. He walks to her side, coruches down, and holds her hand , as if that touch would bring her back from whatever hell she has fallen into. She was well awake, but in the same delerium as always.
Is that you Manius, oh it is! I knew you wouldn't leave me my dear, come let me get you something from the kitchen...
No mother, it is me, Marcus, your son...remember, i went away but i'm here now, you are sick, just rest.
I can not get up Manius....isn't the garden nice this time of year?....please can someone get me a glass of water...You must try the doormouse, they are especially delicious....
His mothers servant motioned for him to leave, her condition was obviously getting worse, he kissed her on the head, stood up and surveyed the shell that had once been his parent, and leaves the room. As Marcus made his way back down stairs he was hailed by a voice behind him,
She is getting worse isn't she? That infernal plague is what did it, it took grandfather and uncle and almost her as well. But it was grandfather's death that sent her into this state...
It was Gauis, Marcus's only son, a handsome boy of seventeen with messy brown hair and a brooding face that seemed to judge everything it observed. It was evident that Gauis blamed him for the death of his mother, uncle, and grandparents. To say the least, the two men were not close...
I think with Juno's help she will recover soon, but the look on his face said otherwise, But you would not just bring this up Gaius, you obviously want something, money perhaps? Tell me what you need.
No, not money father, but your permission...no not permission as it is already done. You must be wondering where I was today, i was gone all morning. Marcus motioned that they continue the discussion in the courtyard and then nodded for his son to continue, I went down to the Campus Martius with my friends, we signed up for the army father. I want to serve the Republic.
Marcus wanted to be shocked, but he had been expecting this for a while now, things had not been very civil in this house since he had returned home, it was all he could do not to dicipline the boy. He did not want him to go to the eagles (not because of any sentiment, but because the legions were in such a state of disrepair) but knew if the boy ever wanted to be someone he needed to have served the SPQR.He sipped the wine a slave had given himthen replied,
Did you apply for a comission? Or have you joined as just a Miles? I could get you a rank, i have money now enough to do it...
No father, i want to feel what it is like to be a soldier, i will work my way through the ranks, i do not need your charity! I have joined Legio I under Consul *(Insert Name Here)* in the Hastati...
Feel what it is like to be a soldier!!! I'll tell you what it feels like boy! Its crap! Its a terrible existance to be at the bottom of the ladder, every day it is "yes sir, no sir, can i lick your boots sir!".... but, if that is the way you want to do it, be my guest!
When do you leave?
Rather taken aback by his fathers vehemence when speaking of the army, Gaius replied hesitantly,
Today father, i only came back to tell you i was leaving, to say goodbye, which i will say is a lot more than you did for mother!
And with that, he saluted, turned on his heel and left the building. Marcus immediatly ordered a sheet of parchment brought, and after writing a quick note, gave the note to a slave.
Follow the boy and give this to his commanding officer, the least i can do is have someone to watch out for him...
OOC: Im just building the character here, so you get to know him more. As you are probably aware, Marcus is blue, his son red, Vibia is Purple and any slaves are green. If that is too hard to read, just tell me and i will change it to speech marks and normal grammar.
Great! I can sense a real story brewing here! Keep it up!
Just a historical note though - the legions of the early-mid republic were structured differently than those of the empire. They weren't standing armies so much as militias levied in times of crisis, and only consisting of propertied men that had to supply their own equipment. Given that your character is a senator, it would be absolutely unspeakable (impossible, in fact) for his son to serve in the infantry - he'd more than likely be commissioned as a tribune under a consul, a position of limited command, in anticipation of his political future.
Don't let such vulgar concerns ruin your plot, though, if it can't be helped.
Originally Posted by Rebel Jeb
Hah, you're always so helpful to threads Winter. No wonder you got citizen!
Great! I can sense a real story brewing here! Keep it up!
Just a historical note though - the legions of the early-mid republic were structured differently than those of the empire. They weren't standing armies so much as militias levied in times of crisis, and only consisting of propertied men that had to supply their own equipment. Given that your character is a senator, it would be absolutely unspeakable (impossible, in fact) for his son to serve in the infantry - he'd more than likely be commissioned as a tribune under a consul, a position of limited command, in anticipation of his political future.
Don't let such vulgar concerns ruin your plot, though, if it can't be helped.
OOC: Marcus understands this, but his son has rebelled against him, and thus it can not be helped. Later on though Gaius might find himself with a strange promotion though I basically did this to only have to worry about one character, cos im just starting out see, and later i will bring Gaius back and who knows, maybe Vibia will get better thanks for your help though Winter!
I would be most honored if you would join me for dinner two nights from now, so that we may discuss in detail your proposition. Best to you and your family.
Originally Posted by Rebel Jeb
Hah, you're always so helpful to threads Winter. No wonder you got citizen!
Dominus, a message for you... The slave hands Marcus the wax sealed parchment.
Ah, it seems my old Tribune does remember, I may get a seat in the Senate yet... he turns to the slave, remind me, two days from now we go to visit the house of Aurelius Lepidus.
Marcus comes to the door
Ah Praetor Corvenus! It is good that you have come, I hope you do not find my home too pedestrian for your tastes. I, unlike some other senators i know, do not take pleasure in flaunting my wealth. 'This man seems a decent enough fellow, for a patrician'...
Please, please come and sit with me in the courtyard, the evenings are nice this time of year, sunsets seen from the Aventine are most spectacular! They walk off towards the courtyard whilst Marcus orders supper brought. They sit, now, what is it you wished to discuss with me? Marcus smiles...
Flavius laughs and says:
My own mansion is not any better, don't worry
For a plebeian, this man is quite wealthy and knows the etiquette.. how surprising.
Flavius answers to Marcus's smile, and says:
I am here to discuss about current events in the Senate. Our Consuls have departured into their missions. I have heard that Poplicola, a very able man, has already reached Taras with his legion. I have no news of Silius, but i believe he is already on his way to Rhegion. Senator Lurco did also leave to establish trade agreement with hellens, and perhaps negotiate peace..
His face showed for a moment a feeling of disdain when he mentioned Lurco.
I don't trust this Lurco much. I have that type of feeling in my guts that he is not to be trusted, and even less to be trusted because he is such a dull person.
Flavius seemed to hate Lurco. Maybe there was a deeper reason for it..?
But now, i think we should befriend in this noble Senate. I have always thought that we should let plebeians in the Senate, and thank the gods it is now possible.
Last edited by Maiar93; June 15, 2011 at 08:13 AM.
Predictor of AAR Plot Points and a wannabe forum ninja
ooc: just one thing, it should be "thank the gods, unless of course, corvenus is jewish haha or alternitivly you can name one god; thank Jupiter it is now...etc
Marcus is interested in Corvenus's proposal, 'it would be good to have a patrician on my side' he muses...
I have not had enough dealings with Lurco to judge him one way or the other, and i only judge a man by his actions, not rumour or gossip. His intentions seem noble enough, but if he should sway from the senates wishes he will surely fall.
You seem to have some enmity between Lurco and yourself, Marcus had always been good at reading the body language of the people he spoke to, Corvenus had visibily shuddered when he had said the Senators name, is there something that i may need to know about the man?
Also, if i am not being to prudent, I would most like to know what your plans are for your term as Praetor, and for the future, as I may be able to help you in certain aspects... Marcus leaned back in his chair, completely at ease with this discussion...
Flavius noticed how curious his fellow was, and refitted his face to be warm and friendly. He didn't want to insult his host the first day they met.
Marcus, there is yet nothing you would wish to hear of that man, or his family...
This time he managed to keep his face in tact, and then he continued:
I can tell you a part of my plans, as a sign of trust on you.
He continued while his tone of voice turned slightly darker.
Firstly, i need to get rid of this Lurco. He is a certain wall between me and the accomplishment of my plans. I need you to help me with that. Maybe we could get him in a bad light in the senate, so he would not have much of influence..
Predictor of AAR Plot Points and a wannabe forum ninja
Marcus was shocked at the direct tone that Corvenus was taking, of course none of this showed, he kept up his steady friendly facade...
My dear Praetor! I have no reason to do this man any harm, in any sense. Even if i was to help you in whatever you wished to accomplish, I would first have to consult with my patron, Lepidus, he may see a need for the man yet. I will withhold my judgement on this man, and i am sorry i can not help you with a task my honour finds distateful...that is unless the reason you want to get rid of him is a valid one...
Marcus was about to wait for an answer, but his curiosity at this strange case made him ask,
And, if i were to help you, what could you possibly offer me? You by now know i do not want for money or power...I am a hard man to win over my friend, Marcus smiles, more wine?
Flavius kept calm, sipped wine from his goblet and continued his push:
And i would not use money or power to bribe anyone, if i ever would even fall to such a level..
The tone in his voice inclined he has deep disgust for acts like bribery.
I cannot force you to help me. I do not offer anything to you, because i assure you that the man's fall in popularity will benefit us both. I know what happened..will happen..
He bit his tongue as he'd just said something he did not mean to say. 'I hope he doesn't know too much..'
But, i am no bribesman. My intention was, and will be to help you in the first place.
Last edited by Maiar93; June 15, 2011 at 08:49 AM.
Predictor of AAR Plot Points and a wannabe forum ninja
Nor i should think you would Praetor! Marcus smiled at him, knowing he had the man on the back foot, neither would i for that matter...
Let me say this to you Corvenus, I will be your friend in the Senate, i will keep my eye on this Lurco character and if something comes up that influences my opinion of the man, I will let you know.
Does this satisfy you? But, enough of politics, do you have any family Corvenus? mine are all sadly absent, or in the halls of Pluto....
Marcus found himself liking the man, for a patrician...
Flavius was surprised the pleb actually wanted to help him. His face remained motionless, but he smiled:
I haven't had time for a family. You see, I was born rich, yet i had to live my childhood and pretty much most of my life in poverty. Actually, so long that just in the recent years i began to gain and not lose. Now I own a mansion near Rome, just by the river Tiber. I wouldn't mind if you'd visit me there sometime. You have an open invitation, Marcus..
He smiled. 'Somehow i like this pleb..'
Predictor of AAR Plot Points and a wannabe forum ninja
Domvs Atrivs, The Aventine Hill
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Originally Posted by Rebel Jeb
I basically did this to only have to worry about one character, cos im just starting out see, and later i will bring Gaius back and who knows, maybe Vibia will get better 
thanks for your help though Winter!
haha or alternitivly you can name one god; thank Jupiter it is now...etc
