"My king's realm spans the continent. From Ireland to the Silk Country, none are unaware of his renown; his might shakes the world. We beseech Your Majesty to accept the supreme title—Augustus!"
"My ministers pay their respects to Your Majesty!"
Leon sat upon the stone seat at the center of the Roman Senate. Before him was a crowd of nobles from every land who had bowed in submission: Rome's wealthy senators, the continent's tribal chieftains and their people, Britain's knightly aristocrats—all influential dignitaries who held sway over their own domains.
Nobles from nearly all of Europa had come.
These highborn figures filled the hall, a dense sea of heads. There was not even enough room inside, and they spilled out onto the steps beyond, standing on tiptoe and craning their necks toward...