Nathan approached the imperial carriage, flanked by Praetorians who immediately stepped aside to allow him entry. He climbed the short steps and ducked through the velvet curtain, entering the lion's den.
Once inside the grand, gold-trimmed carriage drawn by four immaculate white horses, Nathan settled into the plush velvet seat across from the two most powerful men in the Roman Empire—Julius Caesar and Octavius. The carriage creaked softly as it moved, the wheels humming along the cobblestone streets of Rome beneath a pale morning sun.
Nathan's sharp red eyes locked with Caesar's. He didn't waste time with pleasantries.
"What did you wish to talk about?" he asked, his voice calm and even, but with a cool undertone that made Octavius flinch.
Octavius scowled, leaning forward with indignation. "Show some respect to your Emperor," he snapped, his fingers curling into a fist on his knee.
