Today was a big day. Septimius, the brother of Emperor Claudius, has graced my master with his presence at dinner. The entire household has been preparing for his arrival since last month actually. My master has copiously reminded me the importance of his guest of honor and, as such, much responsibility has been placed on my shoulders. This was one of his shining moments to remind others of his prominence, and the food was to be impeccable. I have been scouring the market for ingredients for weeks. The cooking for the convivia began a week ago.
The dinner lasted for the entire night. Thankfully, Septimius brought along his own cook, Rufus. Rufus told me quite frankly that Septimius is under the impression that no other cooks can satisfy his oh-so-sensitive palate, but I was glad to be relieved from preparing Septimius's meal anyways. After all the guests had eaten until unconscious, Rufus and I had some of the leftovers by the kitchen fire. He began to tell me stories of unfortunate events that befell on some of his acquaintances, who were(!) also cooks. One cook in Metapontum received 100 lashes for not using enough salt to season the fish. Yet another in Apuleius hung himself to avoid his master's punishment after a dog finished an expensive ham of a stag.
I know for certain that I will not have to fear such repercussions for my master is a good man. In fact, before he retired for the night, my master bestowed a hefty praise on me with a silver cup despite the fact that some of the dishes could have been better. As much as I sincerely appreciate my master's kindness, I am reminded of the fact that my life is at the mercy of someone else whether I hear about an unfortunate end of a fellow cook or receive a gift from my master. Oh, how I wish to be a free man! Once Romanus is ready to take my place, I shall ask my master for my freedom. I have an inkling that my master knows and has already acquiesced to my wish. The other day, I caught a glimpse of my master looking over while I was teaching Romanus how to cook master's favorite dish, steamed lamb. Once it was served for dinner, he gave me a knowing nod as to approve Romanus preparing his favorite dish from then on.
For now, though, still a privileged slave.
