The Consular elections immediately following the end of the Civil War were unlike any elections in recent history. They aroused the Roman people, from the lowliest plebeian to the greatest patrician. Of course, only the propertied notables were permitted to vote. But a variety of elements of the Roman society eagerly pressed their agendas. In the eyes of any foreign visitor, the vibrancy of the world's greatest city was clearly evident. Distant threats in Hispania and Thrace did not dull the spirit of the Romans. They retained overwhelming confidence in the abilities of their military.

Roman citizens followed the progress of the elections with apprehension. The news of the execution of Prima Legatus Horadrius Appus- a significant event under normal circumstances- did very little to distract their attention from the political theater. Prima Horadrius had been a non-entity in the government, and few Romans mourned his death. Without a doubt, the purge of the Manus family stirred up more resentment toward Emperor Tiberius than the execution of Appus. Some Romans even cheered the demise of the Prima. But most simply didn't care. They preferred to hear news of the elections.

Finally, after a long period of balloting, the electoral officials prepared to announce the results. The respected Pontifex Borius Publius Sabaco (NPC) declared, from the steps of the Temple of Jupiter Capitolium, "Aggripina Antonia Vitellius and Brutus Crassus Dio have been elected Consuls of Rome!"

The crowds cheered as Antonia and Crassus made their way up the steps. There, they were saluted by twenty-four lictors- twelve for each Consul, according to the ancient tradition. Then they each sat on an ivory curule chair: the throne of a Consul of the Republic.

Antonia and Crassus were the leaders of the new Senate. Nevertheless, they both understood that their powers were limited. After the initial ceremonies of inauguration, the Consuls processed to the Imperial Palace to pay respects to the Princeps, Imperator Augustus Tiberius Vitellius.

**SPQR**

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By: GM (QMA) and everyone who voted! ;-)