Truth be told, Lucius had hard time trusting anyone with so much a bag of coins, let alone to look after his daughter. Mercenary... that's all he was in Lucius' eyes, a sell-sword offering to spill blood for one with deepest purse. Lucius' purse was plenty deep but the idea of man whose loyalty is defined only by weight of his belt did not sit well with him. He felt the scorch upon his skin before, the bitter sting of betrayal motivated by the cruelty of coin and its power. With such boasting, one could easily deduce that man's skill exceeds the need... but it was still just that - boasting. This is not Greece or Persia, this is not the wilderness of endless steppes that stretch across Asia... No. This is Rome. The center of the world, beating heart of civilization to which all roads lead to... this city is far more dangerous, for a wolf only ever follows his instinct and its nature, while humans have always been and always will be unpredictable creatures.<br/><br/>Lucius' eyes briefly glanced toward Lucia as she circled around Cadmus. She was taught well... the subtle game of seduction and temptation that any great woman must possess and while he was on the brink of ire to see a stranger be within arm's distance of her, he controlled his temper quite well. Next gaze was shot directly at Cadmus, cold and piercing, one who is not as skilled in sword and shield but whose will is tougher than steel. It was to show the clear difference, to make man understand word of Lucius Aurelius Alba is law in this house. After all... he'll be paying him directly out of his pocket.<br/><br/>Soft grin crept up on his lips. No. He could not deny Lucia's eager wish. Slowly, he stroked his lower lip with index finger, pondering on this situation. He'd rather see a Legion trail Lucia closely behind but with it even more problems would arise... Perhaps just one man is needed. He rose other hand and beckoned with finger... within moments Cassus, loyal servant of House, appeared by Lucius' side. Hushed words were spoken to him, keeping eyes glued to Cadmus at all times. With swift steps, Cassus left the room, obeying instructions given by master. "Trial run. I do not hate that idea." Bitter-sweet words of mixed content and contempt echoed in the marble halls. Servant returned, offering to his master a well-woven leather purse. Light clinking sounds were heard as Lucius carefully inspected content and only after he was entirely satisfied with it, Cassus brought it to a carved-wooden table and placed, right in front of Cadmus.<br/><br/>"Fifty denarii." Lucius spoke with clear, loud tone. The amount of coins was as stated, more than months pay of legionnaire - quite a bit more actually "You'll find that I am generous to those who earn my trust... even more so if my daughter's well being is in the question. Prove that you are all you said and this..." he pointed with finger to the bag "Will be not be the last you see."<br/><br/>"Of course..." He started again after a brief moment of silence, enough to give Cadmus time to check for the bag "There are some rules, which I am sure you will understand. First... my daughter's safety must remain unquestionable. Should someone dare to so much as touch her without her permission... I want him to only have his fingers in dearest of memory. I believe I need not clarify what must happen if more would to occur. Keep in mind she is rather... mischievous." He said with a chuckle as he looked briefly over Lucia "And of course after me, her word is law."<br/><br/>"Lastly..." His fingers moved over his brows, observing a faint mist of sweat that was about to bathe his forehead. Day was long and he needed rest "... and let's not ruin this good start of professional relationship... my trust extends as far as your loyalty does. As soon as later ends... so does former. Crucifictions are common occurence nowadays. Now..." Lucius stood up from the couch, offering Cadmus brief but well-meant smile "Have yourself settled. You shall need energy if you are to shadow Lucia. As for me, I am in deep need of a bath and I believe I promised my daughter a round of game after."<br/><br/>As Lucius walked toward bath within the villa, he removed one piece of clothing after another, giving them to slave girl that followed him closely. For a man his age, he was still in excellent shape, well toned body with few scars to remind him of lessons that he must never forget. Come tomorrow, the entire cycle shall start again but for today, he is content to rest his mind. Pool was large, just a bit smaller than some public baths. Entire staff of the House could fit in without any trouble... expensive luxury but one he never once regretted. Water was warm, refreshing and he sat down on the steps, allowing tension to slowly drain out from his pores.