The Seizure #
Inside the villa, the Procurator admires a fresco while holding the ledger. With terrifying politeness, he announces that Picentia's disaster exemptions are obsolete. "The profits of the last two years belong to the Aerarium. We are simply collecting the arrears. Nine parts in ten."
Aulus slams his hand on the table: "That is theft! You are stripping us bare!"
"The Empire spans the world," the Procurator replies, his eyes dead. "Do you think we will starve without the wool of one valley? You mistake your utility for necessity."
Gaius signals for silence and manages a neutral response: "Perhaps we can discuss the scope and arrangement of the arrears tonight? Over proper hospitality."
The Procurator's smile widens as he stands to leave. "A 'settlement.' A fascinating concept."