Second Battle of Bedriacum
The battle rages on the plains near Calvatone, with the Vitellian forces clashing against the Flavians. A desperate centurion attempts to rally his men as the line falters, while the wounded cry out i
Setting
A vast plain near Calvatone, strewn with the remnants of battle. The ground is churned into mud by thousands of marching feet and cavalry charges. Nearby, a small river winds through the landscape, its banks trampled and muddy.
Characters
Legionary Centurion
primary
A battle-hardened centurion in his late 30s, with a muscular build from years of military service. His face is weathered, with a prominent scar running from his left temple to his jawline, a testament to past battles. His short-cropped hair is flecked with grey, and his piercing brown eyes are filled with determination.
Legionary Soldier
secondary
A young man in his early twenties, lean but muscular from training. His face is smeared with dirt and sweat, and his wide, fearful eyes dart constantly. His short-cropped hair is damp with perspiration, and a fresh cut on his left cheek bleeds slightly.
Cavalry Officer
secondary
A tall, lean man in his late 30s with a weathered face marked by years of sun and wind. His dark hair is cropped short in military fashion, streaked with grey at the temples. His piercing brown eyes scan the battlefield with practiced efficiency. His arms bear the corded muscles of a seasoned horseman.
Wounded Soldier
background
A middle-aged Roman soldier, his body bearing the marks of battle. His muscular build is evident despite his injuries, with sun-kissed skin covered in sweat, blood, and dirt. His face is lined with pain and exhaustion, and his short-cropped hair is matted with blood from a head wound.
Standard Bearer
background
A broad-shouldered soldier in his late 20s with a wiry beard and sun-weathered skin, his muscular frame straining under the weight of battle. His helmet bears the marks of recent blows, and sweat streaks through the dust caked on his face. His hands, wrapped in worn leather grips, clutch the standard pole with white-knuckled intensity.
Dialog
Legionary Centurion
Hold the line, you dogs! Lock shields and form testudo! If we break now, we're all dead men!
Legionary Soldier
Centurion! The flank crumbles—by Mars, they're behind us!
Cavalry Officer
Wheel left and strike their rear! Now, before their archers regroup!
Legionary Soldier
Sir—I see Vitellian standards in the smoke! Are we abandoned?
Legionary Centurion
Steady, lad. The gods favor the disciplined. Close ranks—let their cavalry spend themselves on our steel.
Cavalry Officer
By Dis Pater—their general's exposed! Sound the charge!
Legionary Centurion
Now, you sons of Rome! Advance at my mark—for Otho and the Senate!