Part 4/12:
In October 610 CE, a glimmer of hope appeared in the form of a rebel army from North Africa led by Heraclius, the son of the governor of Carthage. Disillusioned by Focus's failed governance, he believed he could restore the empire. Upon his arrival in Constantinople, Heraclius found the city in disarray - impoverished and crippled by fear. The pathetic state of royal loyalty was evident as Focus's own men captured him and put him to shame before Heraclius, who subsequently took the throne.