Science and technology

The Roman Empire has not just sat still through this expansion. Science has advanced roughly as it has in our timeline, in particular Leonardo da Vinci (who at this time is around 40 and at the height of his imaginings) is supported by the central government in Rome, and has been allowed to experiment as he wishes. Indeed, he receives much funding from the Senate, and many of his imaginings have become reality: submarines have been built and the Mediterranean and the Red Sea have been explored. Tanks have been built and aided the Roman troops.

Glass making (by alchemists) has reached the point where telescopes are commonplace on the battle field, and most generals will have a brass telescope in their possession. Larger telescopes allow alchemists to search the heavens, although their use by priests is more prevalent. Priests use these devices for astrology, rather than astronomy! However, they more frequently use Indian mystic methods of divination. Lower castes often cannot afford the sacrifices necessary to get the priests to foretell for them, and Tarot is common among merchants, traders and foot soldiers.

Transport is still limited to ships, and animal drawn carriages. Traders use large caravans of camels, horses, and ox-drawn carts. Military units use horses, and ox-drawn carts for supply. Consequently, communication is difficult across the Empire - it would take several years for a return trip to Rome, for example, and most large outposts in the Empire are largely autonomous. Nova Roma is ruled by its own Senate, and it rules the Empire throughout North America.