Birth of Lucius Verus
The birth of Lucius Verus in the imperial palace, a moment of high political and dynastic importance, with Emperor Hadrian present, signifying the continuation of the Antonine line.
Setting
Marble birthing chamber in the Imperial Palace, Rome. The room is adorned with frescoes depicting scenes of divine births and imperial lineage. High ceilings with intricate moldings, floors of polished Numidian marble, and walls lined with crimson silk drapes.
Characters
Midwife
primary
A middle-aged Greek woman with strong, calloused hands and deep-set eyes that have witnessed countless births. Her olive skin is lined with experience, and her dark hair is pulled back into a simple braid, held with a plain bronze pin. She moves with deliberate efficiency, every gesture purposeful from years of practice.
Domina
primary
A noblewoman in her late twenties, with a delicate yet resilient frame. Her face, though strained with labor, retains its patrician features—high cheekbones, a straight nose, and a determined jaw. Her dark hair is loosely braided and damp with sweat, clinging to her temples and neck.
Emperor Hadrian
secondary
A middle-aged man of commanding presence with a lean, athletic build, his sharp features framed by a neatly trimmed beard. His piercing eyes survey the scene with quiet authority.
Attendant
secondary
A young slave girl, approximately 15-16 years old, with a slender build and short, curly brown hair. Her olive skin is smooth but shows signs of long hours working indoors. Her hands are delicate but calloused from frequent washing and handling of linens.
Physician
secondary
A middle-aged Roman physician of stocky build, with short-cropped dark hair streaked with grey and a neatly trimmed beard. His hands are steady and clean, showing meticulous care for hygiene, a rarity in this era. His sharp eyes frequently glance between the Domina and the midwife, assessing the situation.
Dialog
Midwife
Domina, Juno Lucina smiles upon us. The head crowns!
Domina
I pray... to Juno... and Dis Pater... grant strength...
Physician
The matrix contracts properly. All proceeds as Galen described.
Midwife
Push now, Domina! With all the strength of your ancestors!
Domina
Vesta... bless this... child of Rome...!
Midwife
A son! The gods gift Rome another Caesar!
Physician
Bring the silver scalpel - the umbilical cord must be severed with ritual precision.