The emperor otho is dead by his own hand and his rival, aulus vitellius, occupies the imperial throne. However, a new challenge has arisen in the east - the legions of titus flavius vespasian have declared their emperor....The emperor otho is dead by his own hand and his rival, aulus vitellius, occupies the imperial throne. However, a new challenge has arisen in the east - the legions of titus flavius vespasian have declared their emperor. In the dry heat of an August morning, gaius valerius verrens prepares for his last day on earth.