Chapter 2: The Banquet's Prelude
As dusk settled over Rome, the villa transformed into a beacon of light and festivity. Torches flickered along the colonnades, casting dancing shadows on the marble floors. The aroma of roasted meats, seasoned with exotic spices from the far reaches of the empire, permeated the air, mingling with the sweet scent of blooming jasmine.
Maeve, clad in a simple yet elegant tunic provided by the head housekeeper, moved gracefully through the throng of guests. A silver tray balanced effortlessly in her hands bore goblets of rich, red wine. Her keen eyes observed the assembly of senators, generals, and foreign emissaries, each engaged in animated discussions and subtle negotiations.
Pausing near a grand marble column adorned with intricate carvings of mythological scenes, Maeve's attention was drawn to the central atrium. There, beneath a canopy of silk and gold, stood Julius Caesar, his presence commanding and magnetic. He conversed with Marcus Antonius, their gestures animated as they deliberated over matters of state and strategy.
As Maeve's gaze lingered on Caesar, he turned slightly, his eyes locking onto hers across the expanse of the room. Time seemed to halt as an unspoken connection sparked between them, a fleeting moment that sent an inexplicable shiver down her spine.
Quickly averting her gaze, Maeve resumed her duties, her mind racing with the implications of that brief encounter. Unbeknownst to her, Caesar's eyes followed her retreating figure, a contemplative expression settling on his features.