The Emperor looks at each of you and turns to leave when it is clear no one has any questions. He is followed by Macro as he exists the garden.
Marco must have had a torch or lamp because once the emperor departs the room plunges into darkness. Only a small light held by Claudius illuminates the room now. The warm flame reveals an expression of confidence and determination upon the royal uncle's face, a stark contrast to the obsequious demeanor he carried in the presence of his nephew.
"You heard the Emperor," Claudius says. "You are to go to Mauretania at once, preferably by sea, though I don't want to know the details of your itinerary. Yes it is true we are at war with Neptune, so boats are a danger. But the way over land is long, and you will have to cross water at some point anyways. However do as you will, after all you were selected because the emperor has confidence in your judgment.
"As to the r-r-r-reason for your mission. My dear friend, Pomponius Mela has been living in Tingis for some time in an effort to map out sacred sites in the region. He and I have corresponded for several months. Mostly his letters were just fabricated stories of nymphs and golden apples, but his last epistle concerned me. He seemed like a man whose future is uncertain, and spoke about the possibility of his death. He raved about a cult, a g-g-golden bull and an artifact connected to the god Poseidon, or Neptune.
"Go and find what you can about this cult and see if this has anything to do with the sea god. More importantly, protect my friend Pomponius Mela. Any questions?"