"The Restoration"
By Mark Turchetto
Two young archeologists discover a vase with manuscripts in it at an excavation site. after breaking into the translating room, they discover the documents date as 1st century material. The story is read and it begins in 58 A.D. The place is Rome and the Caesar is Nero. Boudicca has rebelled against the empire and the war between Britain and Rome leaves one soldier, Marcus Canelius, on a destiny to murder and a trial. Marcus' hate has plagued him since his quest for his father's murderer. After found guilty by the Senate, Marcus must prove his loyalty to Rome. He is sent to Myra on a mission to return the apostle Paul safely to Rome for trial. Upon returning, Paul is placed under house arrest. Marcus is enlisted as a Praetorian to guard Paul. It is then that an incredible relationship occurs between this man of hate and the gospel teacher.
Marcus falls in love with Carese, a beautiful young Christian woman, and he pursues her. It is this combination of his relationship with the gospel teacher, his profound love for Carese and an intense spiritual encounter that Marcus' heart begins to change.
After Marcus reveals to the public the crimes Nero has committed, Nero demands that Marcus be executed. Marcus and Carese flee from Rome to Egypt, where the marry and bear a son, Antony. Their freedom is short-lived, for Nero's guards find them.
Antony is taken from them, and they are brought to Rome. Marcus is thrown into the dungeon and Carese is dragged off to Nero's palace. It is here she writes the manuscript meant for Antony, explaining to him who his parents are. The years pass, and Carese has almost given up all hope of ever seeing Marcus or Antony until one day...