The golden doors of the Imperial Palace opened before them with a groaning creak that echoed like a bell toll over the marble court.
The triumph had ended, but the next act of the day — no less grand — had only just begun.
The Emperor had returned.
Julius ascended the palace steps slowly, his stride measured, not out of weariness, but reverence.
The crowds below still chanted his name, the cheers and cries of joy washing over the Eternal City like a tide of living sound.
Behind him came Serena, dismounted now, her armor catching the sunlight as if she wore a second skin of fire.
Her hand lingered near his — not held, but close — a silent vow between equals.
As they passed through the threshold, the wide imperial doors sealed shut behind them.
The cheers faded.
Silence took their place.
And before them…
The Court of Romanus.
The Emperors Throne room.
~
