<span class="mu-i"> <span class="mu-b"> ''A tour, you say? It would take too long to show you all the rooms. You'll have to do with the most prominent rooms we have. Come with me if you would, please.'' </span> </span> He clapped his hands twice, and then you suddenly found yourself within a large domed room, with, in the middle, on a platform raised high, stood the imperial throne.
A grand work of marble, gold, gems, and red cloth. It was of angular design with depictions of pillars, little figurines, and two little golden eagles at the top of the back of the throne. It was unlike the curule seats the emperors usually sat upon. The back cushion was embroidered in gold thread with the emblem of the empire: a golden eagle adorned with laurel leaves, with on his breast a golden sun. The knowledgeable would see this reflected in the banners that hung on the walls. The other banners were the ones of the imperial legions, with their common symbol being a cross with lightning bolts behind them. In dark blue there were both the emblems of the navy and imperial mages, embroidered with silver thread. The reliefs on the walls showed a myriad of topics: barbarians bringing tribute, a conference of senators, marching legions, a scene from nature, and many other depictions. Here, the dome was adorned not with stars but with clouds and a bright azure sky, upon which flew riders with their pegasi.
<span class="mu-i"> ''How long has that throne remained empty?'' </span> You asked of the Vilicus.
<span class="mu-i"> <span class="mu-b"> ''For as long as a millennium, and shall remain empty until a new emperor has been coronated. A prospect that I find unlikely, tell me, do you still have an emperor?'' </span> </span> Drusillus asked in return.
<span class="mu-i"> ''There is the Kaiser in Tautenland, and the emperor in Mithras, and—'' </span> A sharp laugh interrupted you.
<span class="mu-i"> <span class="mu-b"> ''The Provincia Mithradia has its own empire? And Tautania managed to advance out of its barbarism. They might lay claim to the empire, but emperors were more than just great kings. They were the 'dominus mundi,' the lords of the world. One empire under one emperor, united in purpose and destiny.'' </span> </span> Drusillus paused, his eyes narrowing. <span class="mu-i"> <span class="mu-b"> ''But now, it seems the world is fractured, divided among pretenders to a long-lost throne. The days of a true emperor may be behind us.'' </span> </span> He continued to talk, but not to any of you. <span class="mu-i"> <span class="mu-b"> ''Oh, domine, you should be glad you were not here to see it; the imperium lies dead, and children play make-believe among its ruins.'' </span> </span>
