Tellus Stabilita, 95-122 Summary

Before returning to Rome, Hadrian negotiates peace with Osroes, who is eager to see the bloodshed end so that trade can continue with India. Hadrian oversees the rebuilding of cities destroyed by rebellions. He also meets with representatives from the Jews and Greeks in the area, attempting unsuccessfully to improve relations. All told, he seeks peace on the outer rim of the empire.

Hadrian and Lusius Quietus go hunting together, and Quietus makes an unsuccessful attempt on his life. Quietus then proceeds toward Rome, evidently to try to usurp the throne. Hadrian enlists Attianus to deal with Quietus, and the old man goes beyond his duties, killing three of Quietus's allies along with him. Hadrian is infuriated, believing the acts will sully his accession. Attianus agrees to disappear from public life. Hadrian considers Attianus one of his victims.

The...