บท 687: Time Spares No One

Throughout history, numerous vast empires have rapidly expanded under the rule of charismatic conquerors, only to crumble just as swiftly after their demise. Often, the absence of a strong leader leads to a rapid disintegration, exacerbated by the ambitions of generals and lords once loyal to the cause. This pattern looms as a potential fate for the Third Roman Empire—a question that remains unanswered, even to the emperor himself, who now rides with his son. In a symbolic gesture, the emperor shares his horse with his teenage heir, demonstrating a unity and a shared path forward, contrasting sharply with the solitary conquests of his past.