Death of Emperor Trajan
Emperor Trajan lies dying in a grand marble villa overlooking the Mediterranean, surrounded by his generals and physicians. The room is filled with a mix of solemn reverence and quiet desperation as t
Setting
A grand marble villa overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in Selinus, Cilicia. The villa is perched on a cliff, with sweeping views of the turquoise waters below. The interior is adorned with intricate mosaics, frescoes depicting Roman victories, and columns of polished marble. The room where Trajan lies is spacious, with high ceilings and large arched windows that let in the evening light.
Characters
Emperor Trajan
primary
A once-powerful man now visibly weakened by illness, with a broad but gaunt face, deep-set eyes, and a prominent Roman nose. His short-cropped grey hair is thinning, and his skin is pallid with a sheen of sweat. Despite his condition, his posture retains a regal bearing.
General Lucius
primary
A seasoned Roman general in his late 50s, with a muscular build that shows signs of years of military campaigns. His face is weathered, with deep-set eyes and a prominent Roman nose. His short-cropped hair is mostly gray, and his jaw is set with determination. A scar runs from his left temple to his cheek, a testament to battles fought.
Physician Marcus
secondary
A middle-aged man of slight build, with sharp, intelligent features and deep-set eyes that betray his exhaustion. His olive skin is lined with worry, and his dark hair is streaked with gray, tied back in a simple knot. His hands, though steady, show signs of frequent washing and the occasional tremor of fatigue.
Slave Attendant
background
A young man in his early twenties, of slight build with sun-darkened skin and short, curly black hair. His hands are calloused from years of labor, yet move with practiced gentleness when attending to the emperor. His downturned eyes avoid direct gaze with any freeborn present.
Dialog
Emperor Trajan
Lucius... the eagles must return to Rome without delay. See that Hadrian is informed... before the Senate hears whispers.
General Lucius
By your command, Caesar. The Legions will stand ready at the Rubicon until the succession is secure.
Physician Marcus
The fever burns like Vulcan's forge... but this poppy draught may yet grant you ease, Dominus.
Emperor Trajan
Save your remedies, Marcus. I've crossed more rivers than the Styx... Let the Fates cut the thread.
General Lucius
The Tenth Fretensis has sworn oaths to your chosen successor. Dacia to Mesopotamia - none will dare challenge this.
Physician Marcus
The pulse flutters like a wounded bird's wing... Jupiter Optimus Maximus, grant us mercy.
Emperor Trajan
Enough. Leave me with the sound of the waves... and fetch parchment for my seal.