Cotta was about to reply to Quintus' retorts, when the senate doors opened, and young man entered the chamber. "Ave senatores! To me it is an honour to be here. Thank you for your invitation," spoke he. Cotta recognised him as Avlvs Aemilivs Mamercvs, a young figure of the powerful and ancient Aemilii family line. Cotta was about to ignore him and answer to Quintus' remarks, when an idea formed in his mind. Slyly, he smiled, before resuming an honest face, and speaking.

"Greetings, Avlvs Aemilivs Mamercvs. It is a pleasure to meet you at last. I have heard great things about you. We were just...discussing... the next destination of Rome's armies. I'm sure a young Tribune such as yourself would welcome a chance to strike back at old enemies to the north, gaining experience in waging war and command in the Legio II Latium. What say you, senator?