Death of Emperor Trajan
Emperor Trajan, one of Rome's greatest rulers, lies on his deathbed in a luxurious villa in Selinus, Cilicia. His physicians and attendants hover anxiously, knowing the end is near. The room is filled
Setting
A spacious Roman villa in Selinus, Cilicia, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The emperor's private chamber is adorned with luxurious furnishings, and the air is thick with the scent of medicinal herbs. The room is dimly lit, with heavy drapes partially drawn to shield the emperor from the harsh summer sun.
Characters
Emperor Trajan
primary
A once-powerful Roman emperor, now weakened by illness. His face is lined with age and fatigue, yet retains an air of authority. His hair is thinning and grey, his strong jawline still evident despite his weakened state. His eyes, though dimmed by pain, remain sharp and commanding.
Physician
secondary
A middle-aged Greek man with a lean, wiry build, his dark hair streaked with gray and tied back in a simple knot. His olive skin is lined with wrinkles of worry, and his sharp, intelligent eyes are shadowed with fatigue. His hands, though steady, show signs of frequent washing, the nails kept short and clean for his profession.
Attendant Slave
secondary
A middle-aged man of slight build, with weathered features and calloused hands that speak of years of service. His dark hair is streaked with gray, tied back in a simple knot. His deep-set eyes are shadowed with exhaustion and sorrow.
Guard Captain
background
A tall, broad-shouldered Praetorian guard in his late 30s, with a weathered face marked by faint scars from past battles. His close-cropped dark hair and clean-shaven jaw reflect military discipline, while his alert grey eyes betray the vigilance expected of his rank. His posture remains rigid despite the emotional weight of the scene.
Dialog
Emperor Trajan
Physician... tell me plainly. Does Fortuna desert me?
Physician
Divine Majesty, the body follows its natural course... The gods decree more than mortal hands may mend.
Emperor Trajan
Then Rome cannot wait for recovery that will not come. Send for Hadrian.
Physician
At once, Imperator. But first, this draught—for ease... for ease.
Emperor Trajan
Ease is for lesser men. Yet... I will take it. The eagles must fly without me.