The roar of the crowd still lingered faintly in the Colosseum's vast stone belly, like the distant echo of thunder retreating into the hills. Caesar had just finished his closing speech for the first day of the gladiatorial tournament, his deep, authoritative voice carrying across the arena until the very last word. Now, the assembled nobles, senators, and patricians were beginning to rise from their seats in a slow, almost ceremonial tide, their silks and togas brushing softly against the marble benches.
Nathan, standing, watched the departing figures with mild detachment.
Athena and the others watching Gods had left.
