Senator's horse rushed down the cobblestones of Via Appia for the Tiber valley. His bodyguards could hardly follow him while Marcus Aurelius, forgeting fatigues of the past days, sleepless nights and days full of hardships, advanced at full speed, scrutinazing the horizon with eager eyes...

Rome, at last... From the top of a near hill, he could finally look back into the land of his ancestry. What a long time! Although he knows had only been a few months outside, deep down he felt a century had passed away since last time watching those walls, those temples, that sunny landscape, those friendly people, industrious, courageous... Inadvertently, tears began to run down his face. The escort commander, an optio, kept his men away, Marcus Aurelius needed a time alone.



Thoughts raced through his mind. Negotiations had been tough and complex, too many details had to be defined, too many grievances accumulated during the war. Romans were hard and loyal people, but patience and prudence aren't always their better virtues. However, they had finally reached an agreement. New elections and new leaders would bring peace and stability for the Republic.

Taking his mount reins, Marcus headed for the Urbs. Passers-by slowed down and stared at the small group, many cheer and greet them in their passing. He crossed the narrow streets in the lower city, between Caelius and Aventinus Mons. Marcus recognized some faces happy with their return, and found the city plenty of an activity and optimism he could not remember months ago. His fellow citizens knew things were now different. He even passed Ildico's litter, and she greeted him with a gentle sign...

Finally the small retinue reached the place Marcus Aurelius was begging for... Before him, was the square in front of his villa. And there, at the door, his family, his acquaintances, his friends waiting for him. It was a great welcome. And before everyone else, Lucius and Marcus Aemilius, two friends who played their role in last days, and his comrades in the Army: Ralen, Marcus, Egil, The Mummy, Elendil... Hugs and handshakes, praises and thanks giving before entering the house to celebrate the beginning of a New Dawn.



Only a few absences cast a shadow in the air. Decimus, Elpis and Lucius had taken their own ways but, it's said "Every road leads to Rome", so maybe they would meet again. Aelius and Titus Pullo had not yet arrived to complete the celebration. Neapolis wasn't just around the corner, but hopefully they will return soon...

- My dear friends, today it's gonna be a wonderful day!