Death of Emperor Nero
Nero, the once-powerful Emperor of Rome, hides in a secluded villa outside Rome after being declared a public enemy by the Senate. With only his loyal secretary Epaphroditus by his side, he faces the
Setting
A secluded chamber in the Villa of Phaon, outside Rome. The room is modestly furnished, with thick stone walls and a small window overlooking the countryside. The air is heavy with the scent of impending doom.
Characters
Nero
primary
A man in his early 30s, with a once-regal bearing now diminished by fear and exhaustion. His face is pale, with dark circles under his eyes, and his once carefully groomed hair is disheveled. His build is average, but he appears gaunt from days of hiding.
Epaphroditus
primary
A middle-aged man of slight build, with sharp features and tired eyes. His hair is thinning, and his hands show signs of years spent writing and handling scrolls. His posture is slightly hunched from years of service.
Villa Guard
secondary
A seasoned Roman soldier in his mid-30s, with a muscular build and tanned skin from years of outdoor duty. His face bears a few scars from past battles, and his close-cropped hair shows signs of graying at the temples.
Dialog
Nero
Oimoi! Epaphroditus, tell me truly — does the world lose Nero so easily?
Epaphroditus
Domine, the hour is late. The horsemen approach through the olive groves.
Nero
Qualis artifex pereo! What an artist dies in me!
Epaphroditus
The blade must find the artery cleanly. Let me guide your hand.
Nero
They'll make statues of my corpse — mock the divine line of Augustus!
Epaphroditus
Better the eternal darkness than what Galba's men would do. Now, steady...
Nero
At least... at least my voice won't betray me at the end.