That you shall become a of House Cornelius.

"...That you shall become a **** of House Cornelius until such a time that your debt is payed off."

You tongue dries like leather in your mouth and you find yourself unable to speak. Astridr smiles to me. "Thank the gods master, much worse could have been done to you today."

"Worse?" You stammer, "I'm to be a ****."

"Yes," interjects the man, "however, you are allowed to own property as an indentured ****. Should your master Cornelius allow it, you will be allowed to return to your home every day that you're not needed. And, you are in much better legal standing than the captured barbarians." His eyes dart to Astridr "Who are slaves for life."

"So, I keep my home and Astridr?"

"Yes, for now. I've shown you leniency for being an off-worlder. Your name, and garb betray you. Do not scorn this opportunity." He begins to fill out paperwork. "Now, House Cornelius has no use of a labor **** right now." He dips his quill in an inkwell and continues to write. "So you shall work in the training halls as a Eunich."

"What?!" You protest. "I refuse, you can't do this."

For the first time since you've encountered him Cyprian draws himself to his full stature. He booms out his decree "Enough! ****! You are at the service of House Cornelius, until such a time as your debts are paid off." His voice takes on a quieter, though no less authoritative tone "Eunichs maintain as many legal rights as the women of this land. It is a necessary change to protect the chastity of our slaves in training..." He scratches his chin, "Though if you wish, I will allow you to become Infames, a sex ****. It will be beyond my authority whether you become a male or female whore, or the puer delicatus, but know that even after you are freed, there is no turning from this path in the eyes of society and law, and no matter what your fate, all will add considerably to your initial debt."