Pisces – Inner Ring Images (f70r)

At the outset of these events, Mars plainly manifested his influence over the affairs of government, foreshadowing discord, upheaval, and contention among those who governed the city. Under his ascendancy, the forces entrusted with the preservation of order began to array themselves anew, whilst alliances shifted quietly among men of arms and ministers of authority.
Upon the nineteenth day of June, he who sought to surpass all others established his authority more firmly and increased his standing above that of his rivals. Soon thereafter, new winds began to stir throughout the city and among all who took part in public affairs; old loyalties weakened, and many found themselves excluded from the political harmony that had hitherto sustained the stability of the government.
In the days preceding, the factions nearest to power had already measured their strength and prepared their designs. Yet there followed a season of impediment and stagnation, wherein resolutions remained suspended and controversies prevented the attainment of any lasting and secure peace.
Meanwhile, the higher powers gathered about the very centre of government and strengthened those in whose hands the direction of affairs had come to rest. The approaches to authority were secured against their adversaries, whilst within the city and in the chambers where matters of state were deliberated, the most consequential events continued to unfold.
The Moon, mistress of change and of the vicissitudes of Fortune, attended that uncertain season and for a time tempered the fervour of rivalries. By her influence, the conflict did not yet reach its most destructive extremity, though tensions remained concealed beneath the outward appearance of a restored order.

[Complete Translation]