Myself, Beanius and the rest of our entourage climed the Palace Steps. Beanius was beginning to show signs of nerves. He got all tangled in his Toga and tripped up the steps in a rather undignified manner. I had the grace not to laugh (on the outside but I was wetting mysself in the inside).

We finally managed to get to the top of the steps in one piecee and I staightened Beanius out a bit, flicking imaginary flecks of dust off his Toga.

"Now Beanius, will you please be polite to me in front of the Emperor and the other guests? It would not make you look like a man of good charater if you are seen to insult your wife publicly."

"Hmmm, you have a point my dear. Rather an intelligent thought for you. Fabia, try not to touch up the slaves or gaurds. And difinately DO NOT lead the Emperor on. He is dangerous and would use you creully."

"Beanius, do I detect a hint of concern or even jealously on your part? You do love me!"

He ignored me and walked towards the Palace Doors. He gave his name and stated his buisness to the huge and rather handsome Praetorian Gaurds. We were expected, but protocol is protocol.

All was fine and we were shown through to a huge Atrium.

The Nigravipera Familias had arrived!