Pietas, Gravitas, Dignitas and Auctoritas

**Dark Storm** · January 19, 2012, 01:46 PM

Gnaeus stood before the gathering crowd.

"Romans, Citizens." he roared across the mass, "Today is a grand day for a republic, once more the Senators have Rome have voted in favour of continuing the expansion of our republic and the saving of those clients who put their trust in our rightful care. I, Consul Gnaeus Claudius Tranquillus shall head this expedition which shall take two of Romes legions into the very wilderness of the barbarous Iberians where we shall hunt, too extinction our enemies. To aid me in this task I have chosen one of your most rightful leader, a true virtuous Roman who will help bring proper order to the barbarians, Quaestor Lucius Claudius Libanus. Now, Romans remember your rightful place support your legions who are out fighting for Rome. Act with order, with Gravitas in support of Rome's legions, with Dignitas in your lives, do not speak against our Republic for it is un-Roman, unnatural. Do these and you shall support the Legions, Pietas, Gravitas, Dignitas and Auctoritas, I expect every one of these, from every one of you. Now then, without further ado, I shall leave you with my Legate, Quaestor Libanus."

Gnaeus stepped aside from the podium...

**Pontifex Maximus** · January 19, 2012, 02:12 PM

People of Rome, dignified conscript Fathers,

It was with great reluctance that I accepted the Consul's appointment to this position, but I understand my duty to the Republic requires me to bow to the wishes of superior magistrates. My own role will be to ensure that the money flows into the hands of those who need it and is kept from those who do not. I shall inspect the province of Iberia and check for irregularities, and if need be I will draw my sword and fight along side our troops. The burden of foreign service will not only be borne by the soldiers in the ranks, but the commanders as well. May Jupiter Best and Greatest and Mars smile upon our ventures, so that we will earn victory over our enemies.

Lucius smirked as he descended the rostra, all too aware that the foolhardy people had lapped up his words with the same mindless patriotism that allowed him to push through the legislation almost unopposed anyway. Looking towards Gnaeus he awaited the delegation to depart the walls and make for Ostia, and then a ship to Spain.

**Dark Storm** · January 19, 2012, 02:20 PM

Gnaeus nodded to the Senator smiling, before gesturing to his Lictors to 'disperse' the crowded Plebs so that their path may be unhindered. Gnaeus walked up to his Legate, "A fine choice of words, Lucius." he smiled

**Pontifex Maximus** · January 19, 2012, 03:34 PM

Necessary words, only. I think I'll be speaking a lot along those lines in the future. For now I am focused solely on Spain and the glory awaiting us there.

Lucius mounted his black horse and checked his gear

I have sent most of my baggage ahead. What are your plans, Ganeus? Will I serve a civilian or military role? I am your senior in age, but I'm sure you won't allow that to affect your judgment.

**Dark Storm** · January 19, 2012, 03:45 PM

"I will allow you to serve where best you feel suited, Lucius." Gnaeus smiled, "You can help me in both roles if you wish, If I give you command of the Cavalry on the battlefield we can co-ordinate ambushes and such." Gnaeus spoke as he mounted his own horse, a pure white Spanish horse that had been gifted to him upon his rise to Senator.

**Pontifex Maximus** · January 19, 2012, 04:06 PM

Command of the horse, at least I will be positioned with men of similar means...

Lucius felt he would quite like dispatching his enemies from horseback, much more than simply standing and taking the brunt of a charge.

I trust you have given the marching orders? What are the initial steps we will take?

**Dark Storm** · January 19, 2012, 04:14 PM

"We are initially set to group up, so to speak, in Tarraconensis (VIII), I have already sent a message ahead to our legion in Iberia. From there we shall seek to speak with the Barbarian leader to who we are giving support and then shall discuss the enemies movement and forces. We will then make a decision based upon the information we gain, if the enemy are besieging a town or city I will most likely let them engage then, once they are fully occupied in the attempt we shall crush them. If they are travelling then we'll have the advantage of both legionaries and cavalry, as long as we're on the flat."