The Villa of Claudius was decked in funerary colors. The family stood and mourned his passing and then in the deepest parts of their minds, they began to wonder what was in it for them.

Germaniae had no illusions about this, as she was certain there would be nothing in it for her. She had been an outcast too long and away from Rome too long for anyone but her two devoted cousins to care. But they, on the other hand, had a lot to wonder about...

“Claudius was a faithful Senator for many years and we should send him on his way to the great underworld in style,” a friend said in eulogy. “Claudius was a faithful husband, father and friend. I dare say Rome would not be what she is today had not this man answered the call to public service and served Rome which he loved so well.”

Germaniae mused that it was more likely his great wealth and fortune that paved his way to the Senate rather than his great skill. She glanced over at Thea and Dia who were sobbing while being comforted by their husbands. Mourners were in abundance and the body was ready. The funeral was about ready to begin.