“You are to address the Emperor as Your Radiance,” said the little androgyn. “Honorable Caesar is also permitted. You are to approach on your knees, stopping every third step to abase yourself fully . . .” The doors—twin pieces of gilded steel each weighing hundreds of pounds—swung inward. The light of the hall and the weeks-long day cast my shadow forward into the darkened chamber. I did not kneel.
