<strong>Aulus, caught in a gaze between him and the gladiatrix</strong><br/><br/>Even despite his humane offers to the pale slave, his gaze with the prize of this Ludus had caught in a lock of distraction, a distraction that would be interrupted by another, probably someone who served this Ludus. (Autolycus)   He at least showed mercy in the tone of his voice so not to alarm the remaining guests here, but it was clear the dismay in his tone and was enough to catch Aulus’ attention.  With that attention came the answering of his wishes slowly returning to his standing posture.  Despite his shared concern towards the struggling slave, it was clear that his meddling was unnecessary if not foolish.  Perhaps the young lad was foolish, but at least he was willing to challenge man’s hubris so that one might survive.<br/><br/>The announcement of the slave was enough to break the stare between the two men.  At this moment no one could tell the emotion festering in the young soldier.  Was he upset, insulted, ashamed?  Such a thing did not matter since now they would be greeted upon the balcony of the estate.  Leaving not a single word in front of the man (Autolycus) he made the first move stepping towards him.  His steps showed no sign of intimidation on approach.  Only on approach where they were side by side did he finally break silence with the man.  “I admire your loyalty to your Dominus…..unfortunately I am unfamiliar with the protocols and boundaries of an estate such as this.   I have however, seen enough bodies suffer the effects of a lack of water, so you will forgive me…but simply ignoring it would have been the more egregious choice.”<br/><br/>With his words finally passed he then moved to Antonious whom was distracted by food and drink.  “Ah Aulus my boy, what kind of trouble are you getting into so far?”  The man had been taken in by the wines intoxicating effects, an effect Aulus was pleased to have not partaken in, despite that minor hiccup with the slave with the wine vase.  “None as great as yours if you keep that up….come we’ve been asked to move to the balcony, I think we should follow.”  What choice did Antonious have, with him in his stupor he could only rely on the sober soldier to help him to the next potential client.  By that time, Antonious would be sober enough to conduct his business, leaving Aulus to conduct his obligations here as well.<br/>