Epilogue
Rome
The hero walked into the Forum along the parade route. It was not a Triumph, while no one doubted he had saved Rome, other requirements had not been met. A debate in the Senate had failed to secure an exception and allow for the greater ceremony. Even her Father had voted 'no'.
"It's not fair! He gets so pedantic. We saved the city, you deserve a Triumph."
"An Ovation is just fine. What's not fair is that you won't be out there with me."
"I'll be with you later." Her smile made his heart race.
And so he walked alone. The companions from the Battle of the Camp walked behind him, and behind them, troops from the legion. While they had not fought, everyone agreed that a few dozen hardly made a parade.
The legionnaires had come up with a song of course. It was no time until those behind him had picked it up.
Oh, yes he's our leader
To make his heart throb,
You only need mention
Bene Kebob!
Who needs a servant whispering 'remember, you are mortal' when you have these guys?
The Senate stood waiting for him. He looked over to their side, and saw her with her Mother and brothers. She smiled.
He climbed the steps. The eldest of the Senate waited for him at the top. He stopped on the last step. The eldest nodded his head, and turned to the Pontifex Maximus, who held a pillow, a crown rested on it. A crown of grass.
There was quiet as he bowed his head. Parents held their children up so that they could see. "Remember this; you will not see it again. Most receive it for saving an army, he did much more—he saved Rome."
Wearing the crown, he raised his head. He smiled at his love, and she winked at him. The eldest took his hand, and turned him to face the crowd.
"Ecce fortissimus! Ave Ruffio!"
"AVE RUFFIO! AVE RUFFIO! AVE RUFFIO!"
And a small white mouse looked out and waved.
"Vale!"
Notes
Ecce fortissimus—behold the hero
Vale—goodbye
Kimora Possibillis, Ronicus Stoppabullus, and Ruffio will return in Ronicus Ibericus