Lucius took a long sip of wine, then smiled. “So be it,” he said. “In the meantime, I suggest that you not let the tail wag the dog.”

Vespasian nodded. “I couldn’t agree more.” As he considered his friend’s words, a plan started forming in his mind.

Just then more oiled slave boys and girls in loincloths entered the box. Each one carried an elaborate gold tray laden with jewelry, which they presented for the emperor and empress’s perusal.

After looking over one tray, Vespasian declined. He glanced over at Lucius. “Spoils from the Twenty-third’s recent campaign?” he asked.

Before answering, Lucius watched Persephone select a diamond and sapphire ring. Smiling, she slipped it onto the little finger of her right hand.

“Yes,” the First Tribune answered. “They sacked many Shashidan towns before the Borderlands were activated.”

“How much raw gold was brought home?”

Lucius shook his head. “Not enough to make an appreciable difference,” he answered. Understanding, Vespasian returned his attention to the arena.

As the chariots charged dangerously around the inner walls, the musicians played and the acrobats leaped and whirled. Vespasian quickly ordered the Games Master back to his side and held up the handbill.

“There are far too many slaves marked for execution, you idiot!” He raised his voice to be sure that Gracchus and the otherPon Q’tar members heard him. “Have you gone mad, you ignorant son of a street whore? I want the women, children, and one-third of the healthiest men spared for sale at auction on the new moon!” Finished, he lowered the handbill and calmly returned his gaze to the arena without bothering to turn and look at Gracchus.