Throughout history, numerous vast empires have rapidly expanded under the rule of charismatic conquerors, only to crumble just as swiftly after their demise. Often, the absence of a strong leader leads to a rapid disintegration, exacerbated by the ambitions of generals and lords once loyal to the cause. This pattern looms as a potential fate for the Third Roman Empire—a question that remains unanswered, even to the emperor himself, who now rides with his son. In a symbolic gesture, the emperor shares his horse with his teenage heir, demonstrating a unity and a shared path forward, contrasting sharply with the solitary conquests of his past.