A messenger wearing the Caesar's arms walks into the Magnaura.

"My master apologises that he is unable to be here in Constantinople to comment on the death of Senator Ampelas, but has sent me in his stead."

The messenger reads from a scroll:

"I am deeply saddened by the death of Senator Ampelas. He was a good man, and a loyal Roman. His death and the destruction of his army is a terrible blow for the empire. I trust that all senators will pay due respect to him."