The crystalline columns rose into the sky. Pillars of achievement draped in black silk. The funeral procession made its way from the royal home to the town square. Everyone was dressed in black, mourning the loss of the beloved emperor Remulo. A chariot followed the dead body as it made its way through the crowd. The occupants of the chariot were as silent as the night. The burning of the emperor’s body was requested by the royal family. A wooden shanty stood in the middle of the town square for the ceremony. The occupants stood next to the chariot as the body was placed inside the shanty. A graceful woman walked into the shanty.

“I will see you in the afterlife father and you will be pleased to know I am there.” She kissed his forehead and turned around.

“Geminus, come and say good bye to your grandfather.” A young boy stepped forward and kissed the emperor’s hand. As he did a young man stepped up behind him.

“Death frowns at you, and all you can do is smile back. I will miss you grandfather. But I will see you again.” Geminus turned around and went back to stand by the chariot.

“Admirable sentiment from a twelve year old, Luneras. He would make a fine emperor my sister.” The young man walked up and kissed the emperor’s head and placed two coins on his eyes.

“He is wise beyond his age brother. I have no doubt he would make a fine emperor, but don’t get any ideas Praximus. He is above all else my son and I would hate for him to have too much responsibility at such a young age.” Luneras turned to her brother and looked deeply into his eyes. She hugged him.

“You will make a great emperor Praximus. Hail Caesar.” Suddenly horns rang off outside and both made their ways to the chariot. As the shanty was enveloped in flames, the three made their way back to the royal house.

The next few weeks became a chaotic assortment of activities. Praximus was hailed in as the new Caesar. As his first movement as Caesar, he proclaimed a week of games in the arena. He wanted all the men of the country and all the soldiers to come and fight. The week before the games were to begin, Praximus called Luneras into speak with him.

“Luneras, I know you are protective of your son. I understand that, however I want him to watch the games. It will build his character my sister.” Luneras began walking in circles. She was overwhelmed with worry. After a considerable time of silence, she finally spoke.

“Praximus, he is simply too young. This could scare and hurt him in a way we can not even describe. I won’t allow it.” Praximus knew she would say this but he began to get very angry, and in the heat of his anger he grabbed her.

“If he is to become Caesar some day he must know the cruelty and gruesomeness of this world. He will not last if he doesn’t know how to fight. You must let him watch.” He finally let her go and she was baffled. The look of shock on her face was clear enough to anyone. She frowned at him.

“He will watch the first game, but not the days after. After the first day it gets too horrible and he would not be able to bear it. However after the first day if I believe he can handle it, I will allow him to watch.” Praximus got down on his knees and kissed her hand. She pulled away and left.

“I will make him into a warrior yet. I swear on your grave father. He will be the best fighter in all of Rome.” Praximus sat back down at his desk. He began to write a letter. The letter read.

All the men of the land come forth!

A week of games is to be held for the crowning of Emperor Praximus

Our new Caesar calls you to come and fight.

Arrive in Rome in one week.

Caesar Praximus

“All the men will come and fight for me. It will be a glorious week for Rome.” Praximus undressed and got into bed.

“All will love and glorify me. For I am Caesar.”