Proscription of Cicero
The Second Triumvirate (Octavian, Mark Antony, Lepidus) declares Cicero an enemy of the state in the Senate House, marking his proscription. Senators debate the lists under the watch of armed guards,
Setting
The interior of the Curia Julia in the Roman Forum, a grand Senate House with high ceilings and marble walls. The space is filled with rows of wooden benches arranged in a semi-circle around a central podium where the presiding magistrate stands. Armed guards are stationed at every exit, their presence a stark reminder of the gravity of the proceedings.
Characters
Mark Antony
primary
A robust and imposing Roman general in his early 40s, with a muscular build from years of military campaigns. His face is weathered by sun and battle, featuring a strong jawline, deep-set eyes, and a thick, well-groomed beard. His hair is dark and slightly curled, worn in the military style of the time.
Senator Lucius
primary
An elderly man in his late 60s, with a gaunt but dignified frame. His thinning white hair is carefully combed back, and his deeply lined face bears the marks of a long political career. His sharp, intelligent eyes are his most striking feature, reflecting both wisdom and defiance.
Octavian
secondary
A young man in his early 20s with a lean but athletic build, sharp features, and piercing grey-blue eyes that betray his calculating nature. His short, neatly trimmed brown hair is styled in the Roman fashion, and his clean-shaven face gives him a boyish appearance that belies his political acumen.
Lepidus
secondary
A middle-aged Roman statesman with a sturdy build, his face showing the wear of political life. His dark hair is streaked with grey, and his eyes are watchful, calculating. He carries himself with the quiet confidence of a man who knows his place in the power structure.
Guard Captain
secondary
A broad-shouldered, middle-aged Roman soldier with a weathered face, deep-set eyes, and a closely cropped beard. His muscular frame is honed from years of military service, and a prominent scar runs across his left cheekbone, a testament to past battles.
Senator's Slave
background
A young male slave, approximately 18-20 years old, with a slender build and short-cropped dark hair. His olive skin is smooth but marked with faint scars from past punishments. His large brown eyes dart nervously, and his lips are slightly parted in apprehension.
Dialog
Mark Antony
By the blood of Mars, let there be no doubt—Cicero's name stands first upon this list, and any who shield him shall share his fate!
Senator Lucius
This is no justice, but vengeance—a dagger plunged into the heart of the Republic itself! Shall we now call ourselves senators, or mere scribes to tyranny?
Mark Antony
Spare us your theatrics, Lucius. The Republic died when Pompey fell—or do you still weep for his corpse?
Guard Captain
The exits are secured, Consul. None shall pass without your leave.
Senator Lucius
Then let the record show that Rome’s last free voice was silenced not by barbarians, but by her own sons—may the gods forgive you, for history will not.
Mark Antony
History is written by the victors, old man. Take him away.
Guard Captain
At once, Consul.