The narrative in our story now shifts to Camilla, the retired Vestal Virgin, who we first met in the prologue, 25 years before. As instructed by  a highly placed confidant of the Emperor, Paulus Honorius Fabius, Camilla had been conscripted to take the newly born baby Sophia, from her mother, Tullia, at birth and spirit her away across the Mare Nostrum (Mediterranean Sea).  Camilla is re-united with Honorius, and tells him about Julia’s childhood, and her growth to maturity as a scholar and philosopher in ancient Alexandria. Honorius reveals a state secret, but takes great interest in the details of Sophia’s life.