The Meeting in Massalia

[Lucius Malfoy]

With his plans in mind, the Proconsul desired to find those who were viewed as the leaders and notables of the three major cultures within his diverse Proconsulate; the Greeks, the Gauls and his fellow Romans. After gaining the expertise of new Legate, Lucius Atilius Regulus sends forth a call for the nearby communities to have them send representatives to Massalia for a meeting. He hoped to form a gathering in which new economic and social measures could be put forth and set down between the three cultural groups in the hopes of making a more prosperous province for the Republic.

[Pontifex Maximus]

One of the Massalian duoviri, Marcus attended. Brennus, a Gaul, also showed up.

[Lucius Malfoy]

The Proconsul looks at both those who answered his call. He leans back into his chair, offering the pair to sit as well. His Legate, Titus, standing to the right of him.

I am Lucius Atilius Regulus, your new Proconsul. Ever since arriving in this home of yours, I have pondered upon what could be the best way for these lands to grow, thrive and provide, not only for ourselves, but the Republic herself. It is my intention to weave the Greek, Roman and Gallic communities together, to devise new economic measures to build up this lands potential and tap her resources, to promote a stronger cultural coexistence so that Gallia Narbonensis shall thrive for many generations.

He looks to both men quietly for a moment before asking each a simple question.

What do your people need to help us achieve this goal?

[Pontifex Maximus]

"More favorable trade terms with the Gallic tribes, better protection from their brigands, an enlarged port, and better roads." Marcus answered eagerly. "Bring civilization to this backwater."

"Bah, Roman civilization, more like genocide and profaning the gods." Brennus replied. "Give us Gauls rights, political rights. And the right to free worship. Many Romans fear that if we worship freely we will be inspired to rebel."

[Lucius Malfoy]

Do we not share this land? Should we not be in tranquility in friendship?

The Proconsul suspected this was a rhetorical question, yet still spoke of it anyways.

I am in agreement with establishing trade relations with neighboring Gallic tribes and improved infrastructure. The land has great potential and we, as its inhabitants, should improve upon it for future generations to reap.

Lucius thinks quietly for a moment upon the Gallic matters addressed. The political rights would be difficult as the Senate would have to approve of it, yet he could still address the other matter.

Tell me, Brennus, does your pantheon not have similar deities to our Roman pantheon? I did my research before coming here to help me understand the cultures that make up this Proconsulate, but I feel, that as a Gaul yourself, you would be able to educate me better on topics of your people and culture. If this is true, then perhaps we can find a means that will make us both happy.

[Pontifex Maximus]

Brennus details items related to the Gallic faith traditions (look it up)

[Lucius Malfoy]

After listening to Brennus's details, the Proconsul ponders for a long moment. The Gauls had very similar concepts for their gods, save that they had deities that dwelt by hot springs, rivers and other natural formations. He was most intrigued by the god of agriculture, believing he could be a means to join the Romans and Gauls of these lands closer. He turns to both of them, looking at the Gaul first.

To grant you political rights would require the machinations of the Senate, yet I do not fear that the Gauls will rebel if they are allowed to worship.

He looks to both men, speaking further.

As your Proconsul, I will seek to expand our infrastructure, ensure protection for all from brigands, and seek trade relations with neighboring tribes. To show goodwill to the Gallic people and bring them on board with these plans so that we may work as one, I will grant them their right to freely worship their pantheon. May your gods be pleased and happy to know that their people have returned to them.

Lucius needed the two communities to work together so this measure should help them.

I shall begin the process of expanding the roads and send an inquiry to the Senate, later this year, to see if a legion can be stationed in these lands to help guard the roads and look out for brigands. In the mean time, I will also send emissaries to neighboring tribes in the hopes of establishing favorable trading relations to expand our economy. Is this agreeable?

[Pontifex Maximus]

Brennus nodded impassively and Marcus agreed. Prior governors had promised much and delivered little, they would see what this one could do