ROME

Rome stirred from his alcohol-induced slumber with a groan. His arm had fallen asleep from being flung over his face the whole night so he turned to his side just as the room brightened with the sunrise. The servants assigned to his chambers were up and already about their tasks; their footfalls and early morning rush stirred him from his lazing sleep. He opened his eyes and frowned at the spot beside him where there was a small indentation as if someone had been there.

Now that he noticed, there was an unfamiliar presence hovering around the room like someone had just left. He placed his hand on the...