The Emperor Has Come To

"I remember that in my dreams, I found myself on countless battlefields, one after another. I remember standing atop the Theodosian Walls of Constantinople. I remember seeing our greatest foe — Mehmed II — the man we once believed we could never defeat. He stood on the opposite side of a river, his gaze turning back to meet mine. I remember seeing my dear friend Giovanni. He was there, standing proudly in the courtyard, his blade raised high, with his wife Therma standing just behind him. I remember all those brothers who followed me on the fleet long ago. They were all there, gathered in a circle, their hands linked together as they smiled at me with warmth and pride…"

The old emperor's voice grew hoarser, his breathing shallow, but he continued. His eyes wandered, gazing far beyond the room.