"Sorry I'm late."
Giovanni Giustiniani Junior burst through the doors, his towering frame momentarily blocking the sunlight. Clad in full armor, a blade still hanging at his side, he exuded an air of urgency. Behind him, Cerberus followed in agitation, speaking quickly.
"Your Highness! You mustn't enter armed like this! All members are required to disarm before—"
Antonius waved a weary hand, silencing the protests. "It's fine, Cerberus."
Before another word could be uttered, Giovanni dropped to his knees before the emperor, his face shadowed by a mix of guilt and solemnity.
"Giovanni," Antonius rasped, struggling to lift himself from his reclining position. "Come, help me up. I can't stay lying here."
Giovanni sprang to his feet, moving to aid the frail ruler. Leo, ever attentive, also stepped forward to assist. Together, they gently lifted the emperor. As Leo began to step away, Antonius's hand clasped his arm firmly.
