I accept

The bargain is quickly made, and one of the town notaries registers that the peasant woman Verania sells herself to the general defender of Tarraco, who in exchange will provide for her children, Aleka and Torix.

Verania only has the time to kiss the two youngsters goodbye, and it is night when I arrive at home with my new purchase. Olivia is there, which has been more and more unusual these days, as she spends the largest part of her time in the temple, praying with the other priestesses for the salvation of Tarraco. She and her two servants look surprised to see me coming back with such an escort.

"This is my new slave, Verania," I explain. "She can help Gabriella and Martha for the housework, when she doesn't serve me... but I must warn you that serving me will take the larger part of her time and energy."