A man enters the Magnaura in simple clothing, although the chamlys he wears marks him as Senator. His gentle face seems weary, yet his light brown hair and mustach are inpeccably trimed. Waiting for the Ceasar to finish his discourse, the man then speaks up in gentle but audible tones.

Senators, I am Markos ek Sinopis.

I decided to come before in order to announce my impending battle against Helarionas Anargiros, as my forces have caught up him while he attempted to flee the Adriatic Sea. I expected to find this body in support of my actions or at least in tacit agreement.

Instead, I am appalled to discover that some in this body have made of this lawbreaker a hero or a martyr. Not only does this man go against the laws of the Empire, but the very traditions which harken back to the foundation of this Empire.

If you wish to change the law, then do so by legislation and not by cheering on someone who defies it.

Then there is matter of the Church. If God approved of this union,than surely either the Basileus or the Patriarch would be made aware of His will. Instead, the lawbreaker seeks a treasonous priest to consecrate his union.

Let me ask you Senators, how do you know the princess even loves this man? Rumors? If not I wonder how you know more of such things that her father. Shame on you for attacking the character of a great man based on mere hearsay.

Have you no respect for this Empire which has been bountiful to you? Have you no respect for its laws and institutions? Have you no respect for the men who are responsible for all you possess? Have you no respect for yourselves?