It
is the day of a Circus Parade in the Circus Maximus. The main event being a
chariot race within the Circus Maximus. Julia is one of the special guests
along with the rest of her family. They are seated near the Vestal Virgins, but
are in a special area for the Senatorial class. Everybody is excited to witness
the great Quintus, as he holds multiple records for Chariot speed races in the
Roman Republic.
Eli’s
paterfamilias is still in trouble due to his committal of adultery, so Eli has
been ordered around by the paterfamilias’ son for the past few days. Eli is
under good standing with his guardian, although the guardian is unaware of
Eli’s relationship with Julia. Thus, Eli is allowed to attend the chariot
races, as he is a big fan of Quintus. The ceremony begins as the Magistrates
enter the Circus Maximus in horse-drawn carriages. The consuls, praetors, and
the censors enter to a resounding applause from the constituency. Julia looks
across the enormous expanse of the 250,000 seat stadium, wishing to see Eli.
Eli sees Julia in the distance, as she is in the special section reserved for
the Senatorial class. Not wanting to disturb the procession, and fearful of a
beating by his guardian, Eli remains in his seat but simply gazes across at
her.
The
day’s events begin with a speech by one of the leading consuls, as well as a
salute to the Gods and Goddesses. One of the horse-drawn chariots contains
doll-like statues commemorating these immortal figures. As the carriage rolls
through the chariot track, Eli sees Julia’s face as belonging to a Goddess. He
then glances across the way and sees Julia leaving her section and heading in
his direction. She signals to him to meet her outside. Eli tells his guardian
that he is feeling ill, and is permitted to go home. In reality, he is about to
rendezvous with Julia outside of the Circus Maximus.
