Chapter 25 Summary

Pope Leo is a busy, constructive leader, repairing and fortifying the city. Joan suggests they extend the city wall around the basilica to protect it, and the huge project is undertaken. Unskilled workers pour into Rome and the wall becomes an issue among the people. Anastasius is still plotting to become Pope and return the people's loyalty to the Frankish throne of Lothar, and sabotages the wall building project with fire, which spreads to the school building where Gerold is staying. Leo himself goes to help fight the fire and Joan is determined to find Gerold. Holding two children on his back, Gerold finds his way through the smoke by hearing Joan's voice. Gerold takes control of the firefighting effort and manages to save the basilica, which the people consider a miracle of Leo's. Leo learns Anastasius is responsible for the fire.

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