Crossing of the Rubicon
Julius Caesar stands at the banks of the Rubicon River, contemplating the irreversible act of leading his army across this boundary into Roman territory, an act of treason.
Setting
The banks of the Rubicon River, near Savignano sul Rubicon, Italy. The river is shallow but swift, its waters dark and murky under the winter sky. The surrounding landscape is flat and marshy, with patches of frost-covered reeds and bare trees lining the banks. The ground is cold and hard, with occasional patches of icy mud.
Characters
Julius Caesar
primary
A middle-aged Roman general of patrician bearing, with sharp, piercing eyes that command attention. His hair is thinning and combed forward in the traditional Roman style, his face lined with the marks of campaigns and political battles. He stands with the natural authority of a man accustomed to command, his muscular build evident beneath his military attire.
Legion Commander
secondary
A battle-hardened Roman officer in his late 40s, with a muscular build from years of military campaigns. His face is weathered, with deep-set eyes that have seen countless battles and a prominent scar running from his left temple to cheekbone. Short-cropped salt-and-pepper hair frames his stern features.
Standard Bearer
secondary
A sturdy Roman soldier in his late 20s, with a muscular build from years of military training. His face is weathered from campaigns, with a short-cropped beard and dark eyes that reflect the gravity of the moment. His hands are calloused from gripping the standard's pole during long marches.
Legionary Soldier
background
A young Roman soldier in his mid-20s, with a lean but muscular build from years of military training. His face is weathered from exposure to the elements, with a short-cropped beard and dark, piercing eyes that reflect both determination and apprehension. His hands are calloused, gripping his gladius tightly.
Dialog
Julius Caesar
The die is cast.
Legion Commander
Imperator, the ford is shallow but swift. The men await your command.
Julius Caesar
Then let us cross before the Senate's messengers can soil our purpose with their pleading.
Legion Commander
The Thirteenth stands ready. But once we cross... there will be no return.
Julius Caesar
Return? When has Rome ever rewarded caution over courage? The river is but water - the true Rubicon lies in the hearts of men.
Legion Commander
As you will it, Gaius. The aquila crosses the Rubicon.
Julius Caesar
Then let history record that we stepped forward when others would retreat. Advance!