Titus Junius Antonious AD 69, Roman Forum
I hate this city. everything about it stinks. It can't be helped I suppose, I must pay tribute whilst I am here. and with that, Legate Titus Junius Antonius made his way through the bustling forum to the Temple of Mars. There he paid no small amount of sestertii to make his sacrifice. A large bull previously purchased for the purpose was brought before the priests. finding the sacrificed acceptable and for the coin I just paid it damn well better be he opined, they brought it to the platform and slayed the beast. as the large animal fell and spilled its life blood upon the temple floor, braziers sprung to life, no doubt passed Titus's mind that they were for effect.
"Mars accepts your sacrifice in thanks for the success of Legio Thirteen Gemina! go now with his blessing Legatus Titus Antonius!" With the high priest's parting words, he departed. Further business awaited him in Rome. he had been summoned before the Senate to give a report on the actions of his Legion and their expected movements going forth. and he was fairly certain that his old comrade Vespasian wanted words as well.
He marveled at how much the city had changed since he had left. no memory of the great Colosseum came to mind, and he also marveled at the construction that continued. Rome was alive. She breathed and aged like no other.