Aurelia remains at the Asiaticus house with Castor, Pollux, and Nestor. The creditor escorts Valeria through evening streets toward the Theater of Marcellus, carrying the disputed tablet.
Behind a heavy curtain, a cramped backstage chamber waits among painted scenery, coiled ropes, and the muffled music of the public performances beyond.
the contract advocate
I marked every clause that binds you after the exhibition. The organizers will negotiate, but only before your name is announced to Rome.
The newly retained advocate sets a fresh wax tablet beside the contract. Red ochre circles the deductions, the private demonstration, and the penalties for refusal.
the contract advocate
There is one concession worth pursuing. You may fight under Valeria Asiaticus, not Myrina, and keep the public credit for every victory.
the contract advocate
In exchange, they will impose another limitation elsewhere. I have not accepted it. I wanted you to hear the price before they hear your answer.
The creditor folds his arms beside the curtain, while applause swells beyond the chamber. The wax tablet lies open between them, its unmarked space awaiting Valeria’s decision.
✓ Quest Accepted
Identify the new limitation attached to using Valeria Asiaticus's name
“"By now, everyone knows my name. I would be interested to know what conditions they want to attach to it."”
SUCCESS (Superb Reasoning, rolled +1)
Valeria Asiaticus
Everyone knows my name by now. What conditions would they attach to using it?
The advocate turns the fresh tablet toward the lamplight. Beyond the curtain, music falters briefly, and the creditor’s confident posture tightens.
the contract advocate
They would require the name Valeria Asiaticus on every bill, announcement, and victory notice. No mask, no Myrina, and no retreat into anonymity.
the contract advocate
They would also claim exclusive use of it for one year. You could not fight elsewhere, accept another sponsor, or appear under that name without their consent.
He taps the red marks beneath the clauses, separating the public honor from the private leash. The creditor watches Valeria rather than the tablet.
the contract advocate
They demand that you attend rehearsals, interviews, and sponsor dinners when summoned. Refusal forfeits the advance and triggers a penalty against future purses.
The Creditor
In return, your name fills the Theater of Marcellus before the first sword is drawn. Rome will know precisely whom it is paying to see.
Quest Complete
Identify the new limitation attached to using Valeria Asiaticus's name