Part 5/10:
In an era marked by rampant inflation, the currency is rapidly devaluing, consequently affecting purchasing power. The protagonist utilizes his recently acquired gold coins, only to find the cost of living steep against the backdrop of economic turmoil. Furthermore, language barriers add a layer of complexity, with the visitor eager to experience local life, yet hindered by a lack of fluency in Latin.
Overwhelmed by this new reality—and the less-than-appealing public hygiene standards—the diner quickly learns the stark differences in Roman society, including its communal facilities. Public restrooms, notably vile by modern standards with holes in marble slabs and unsanitary conditions, paint a visceral picture of daily life that men must navigate.