Birth of Lucius Verus
The household of the Annii family celebrates the birth of Lucius Verus, future co-emperor of Rome, in a birthing chamber adorned with frescoes. Midwives attend to Domitia Lucilla, while Marcus Annius
Setting
The birthing chamber in the domus of the Annii family, a spacious room adorned with frescoes depicting scenes of Roman mythology, located in the private quarters of the household. The room is adjacent to a small courtyard garden, allowing fresh air and natural light to filter in.
Characters
Domitia Lucilla
primary
A noble Roman matron in her late twenties, with a pale complexion from indoor living, dark brown eyes, and neatly arranged chestnut hair in a modest matronly style. Her face shows signs of recent exertion from childbirth, but her posture remains dignified despite fatigue.
Midwife
primary
A sturdy, middle-aged Roman woman with sun-weathered skin and strong hands accustomed to the rigors of her profession. Her dark hair is streaked with gray and pulled back in a simple bun, with wisps escaping from the day's exertions. Her keen brown eyes show both fatigue from the long birth and professional satisfaction at its successful conclusion.
Servant Girl
secondary
A slender adolescent girl of about 14 years with olive-toned skin and dark, tightly braided hair. Her hands show signs of manual labor, with short nails and faint scars from household tasks. She has wide, watchful eyes that dart attentively between tasks.
Marcus Annius Verus
secondary
A Roman patrician in his early 40s, with a lean but strong build from military service. His face bears the weathering of campaign tents and senate halls, with sharp patrician features and close-cropped dark hair just beginning to show threads of silver. His posture carries the quiet authority of a man accustomed to command.
Dialog
Midwife
By Juno Lucina's grace, I present Lucius Annius Verus—a strong son with the gods' favor upon him.
Domitia Lucilla
Let offerings be made at the lararium—wine and honey cakes for Juno Lucina, and garlands for the household gods.
Marcus Annius Verus
The Annii name continues strong. This child shall honor our ancestors and serve Rome with distinction.
Midwife
The birth was auspicious—no complications, and the omens were favorable when the waters broke at dawn.
Domitia Lucilla
Nōnne the wet nurse should be summoned? Let the child take his first nourishment while the household makes preparations.
Marcus Annius Verus
The Senate shall hear of this blessed event when next I attend—a son born under favorable stars deserves proper recognition.
Midwife
The child grips strongly—see how his fingers clasp? A sign of good fortune and future strength.