Battle of Bedriacum
The Battle of Bedriacum is about to commence between the forces of Emperor Otho and those of Vitellius, marking a pivotal moment in the Year of the Four Emperors. Soldiers on both sides brace for the
Setting
The battlefield near Bedriacum, a flat plain dotted with small hills and patches of scrubby vegetation. The ground is uneven, churned up by the movement of thousands of soldiers and horses. Scattered trees and farmhouses mark the edges of the battlefield.
Characters
Otho
primary
A man in his late thirties, of average height but with a commanding presence. His face is lined with the stress of recent events, his dark eyes scanning the battlefield with a mix of determination and resignation. His short, curly hair is slightly disheveled from the helmet he has just removed, and his muscular build suggests a life accustomed to physical exertion.
Legionary Commander
primary
A tall, broad-shouldered man in his late 40s with short, grey-streaked hair and a weathered face marked by years of military service. His piercing eyes, framed by deep-set wrinkles, convey both authority and weariness. A jagged scar runs down his left cheek from an old battle wound.
Centurion
secondary
A battle-hardened officer in his late 30s, with a muscular build from years of military training. 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 and clean-shaven face are typical of Roman military discipline.
Veteran Legionary
secondary
A grizzled soldier in his late 30s, with a muscular build from years of marching and fighting. His face is lined with scars, and his sun-weathered skin bears the marks of countless campaigns. His short-cropped hair is flecked with gray, and his dark eyes are sharp with vigilance.
Standard Bearer
background
A rugged soldier in his late 20s, with a solid build earned through years of marching and combat. His sun-weathered face bears a few scars from past battles, and his hair is cropped short in military fashion. His hands are calloused from gripping the standard's pole through countless campaigns.
Scout
background
A lean and wiry young man in his early twenties, with sun-darkened skin and sharp features. His short-cropped hair is damp with sweat, and his eyes are keen, trained for spotting movement at great distances. His build suggests endurance rather than brute strength, ideal for long rides.
Dialog
Otho
The gods are silent today, Tribune. What omens do your scouts bring?
Legionary Commander
Dis Pater favors no man, Imperator. The Vitellians outflank us on the right—their cavalry moves like wolves.
Centurion
By Mars' beard! Close ranks, you dogs! Hold the line or I'll flay you myself!
Otho
Then we must be the anvil... Let Vitellius' wolves break their teeth upon us.
Legionary Commander
The XIV Gemina stands ready, Dominus. But the men whisper... they say the omens—
Otho
Let them whisper. A Roman need not fear the Furies when duty calls.
Centurion
Testudo form! Now! Or I swear by Jupiter's lightning you'll all be crow-food!