After several hours of travel, the carriage finally began to slow as the city came into view. Nathan, who had been resting quietly inside, stirred at the subtle change in pace. Driven by massive, swift horses clad in ornate harnesses of polished bronze and crimson cloth, the carriage rumbled steadily along the stone-paved road. The rhythmic clatter of hooves echoed through the air, mingling with the faint murmur of distant crowds.
Curious, Nathan leaned slightly to the side and pulled back the silk curtain. His white hair caught a glint of sunlight as he peered outside. His breath caught for a moment—not from the speed or motion of the carriage, but from the awe-inspiring sight that met his gaze.
Rising ahead of them like a monument carved into the very sky were the colossal walls of Rome.
