The Council in the Palace, and the Emperor’s Entrance

Now when the appointed day came on which the council was to meet for the final settlement of the questions in dispute, every member was present for it in the central hall of the palace, which seemed to be larger than all the rest. Along each side of its interior many seats had been set in order, and those who had been invited to attend took them according to their rank. As soon, then, as the whole assembly had taken their seats in fitting order, a general silence fell as they waited for the emperor to arrive. First of all, three members of his immediate family came in one after another; then others too went in ahead of him, not soldiers or the guards who usually attended him, but only friends in the faith. And now, as all rose at the signal that announced the emperor’s entrance, at last he himself walked through the middle of the assembly like some heavenly messenger of God. He was clothed in a garment that seemed to glitter with rays of light, reflecting the glowing radiance of a purple robe, and adorned with the brilliant splendor of gold and precious stones. [a]

Such was his outward appearance. As for his mind, it was plain that he was marked by piety and the fear of God. His lowered eyes, the blush on his face, and the way he walked all showed it. As for his other personal qualities, he surpassed everyone present in height and beauty of form, as well as in the majestic dignity of his bearing and in unconquerable strength and vigor. All these gifts, joined to a gracious manner and a calm that befitted his imperial rank, declared the excellence of his mind to be beyond all praise. When he had come to the upper end of the rows of seats, he at first remained standing. A low chair of worked gold was set for him, but he waited until the bishops had signaled to him, and only then sat down; and after him the whole assembly did the same.