Chapter 661: Aftermath

The moment hung suspended, as Andrianos, confronted with the humanity of his emperor, responded with a voice thick with emotion. "Yes, your Majesty! I have two children now."

In that charged moment, as Andrianos acknowledged his emperor with heartfelt emotion, the air seemed to shift, charged with an undercurrent of loyalty and remembrance. Antonius, embodying both the majesty and the compassion of a true leader, then turned his attention to another familiar face among the ranks. "And you, Vladimir! Where is the medal of bravery I bestowed upon you after our triumph in Bulgaria? Is it still in your care?"

With a mixture of pride and reverence, Vladimir, a battle-hardened soldier in his mid-forties, eagerly displayed the gleaming medal, its surface reflecting his unwavering devotion. "Always, Your Majesty! It remains as pristine as the day it was awarded!"