Part 5/10:
Two months on, Lucius reaped the rewards of his creative resurgence, earning both respect and profits. However, home life remained tumultuous, with Lucius's wife leaving him out of frustration over his reluctance to start a family. It was a sobering success tinged with personal despair, setting the stage for more transformative experiences.
A Call from the Emperor
Unexpected news arrived when Emperor Hadrianus summoned Lucius to discuss his architectural achievements. The emperor—who appreciated art—desired a luxurious private bathhouse infused with fresh creativity. Lucius felt the weight of the challenge, grappling with creative fatigue, until an accident sent him back to Japan once more.