Arriving through the gate and into the massive iron front doors, you surrender your trusted gladius Vesuvius, a Praetorian Guard escorts you to the inner sanctum for the bearer of the torch of civilization.

Entering his throne room, you’re struck by its majesty. Beautifully carved marble pillars draw your eyes to a skylight with crystal clear glass. Another rarity in the wasteland. The walls are covered in green foliage and fresh water runs throughout the room, creating a refreshing atmosphere in the otherwise dry desert.

The centerpiece of the room, however, is the 20 foot tall statue of Caesar himself, looming over his sanctum. A stark reminder to all those who come before him.

Remembering proper etiquette, you turn your eyes back down to the floor, taking note of the ornate tiles. It depicts a major Legion battle in a mosaic style, though you don’t recognize which.

....don’t care about the East. As long as we slow our expansion and continue trade, they won’t be an issue. The NCR is all that matters now.

The mighty Caesar is in conversation with Lucius and another man who wears a wolf’s head.

The man with the wolf’s head nudges Caesar.

Your body falling into instinct, you kneel.

[Mighty Caesar, Son of Mars, I am reporting to you.]

Stand, Centurion Quintilius Publicis.

You rise to your feet, maintaining perfect composure. Caesar’s two companions stare in silence.

I understand you’ve been working with your peers to enact a series of….much needed reforms to the Legion. Is this correct?

[It is, Caesar, though I can hardly call them peers, they far exceed me in both experience and skill.]

Humility is welcome in small doses, Tribune. You were personally chosen based on those exact qualifications, I want you to act like it.

Your heart drops into your stomach.

[O-of course, Caesar. I apologize for any insolence on my part. I humbly ask for your forgiveness if I am at fault, but did you call me Tribune?]

You are forgiven, Tribune. You are also not at fault. Against the suggestions of my advisors, I have decided to expedite your career progression. New tactics must be used against the degenerate NCR and you embody everything the Legion values. The Ninth Legion is going to be the first to roll out these reforms and I can’t think of a better man than you to oversee this effort. Congratulations Tribune, you will do well to not fail me.

He turns on his heel and leaves the room, his crimson cape fluttering behind him.

You forget to salute, raising your hand as he leaves the room.

You’re escorted from the palace, your mind and body numb to the news.