Accession of Vitellius
Vitellius is proclaimed emperor by his legions in the Roman Forum, with soldiers cheering loudly while senators murmur in the background, sensing the instability of the Year of the Four Emperors.
Setting
The Roman Forum, Rome, amidst the grand columns and marble structures, with the Rostra at the center where Vitellius stands. The winter air carries the scent of burning braziers scattered around to provide warmth.
Characters
Vitellius
primary
A corpulent man in his late fifties with flushed cheeks and a double chin, his thinning hair combed forward in the Roman style. His small eyes glint with a mixture of triumph and nervous energy, and his thick neck strains against the golden torque of imperial office. Despite his ungainly physique, he carries himself with an air of newfound authority.
Legionary Captain
primary
A grizzled veteran in his late 40s, with a muscular build weathered by decades of campaigns. His face is deeply tanned and scarred, with a broken nose that speaks of many brawls. His short-cropped hair is more salt than pepper, and his piercing grey eyes survey the crowd with authority.
Senator
secondary
An older patrician with a gaunt, lined face and sharp, calculating eyes. His silver-streaked hair is meticulously combed, and his posture remains dignified despite the unease of the moment.
Common Legionary
secondary
A young soldier in his early 20s with a lean but muscular build from years of military training. His sun-weathered face bears the marks of recent campaigns, with a short, unkempt beard and close-cropped dark hair. His hands are calloused, gripping his gladius tightly.
Slave
background
A young male slave in his late teens, thin and wiry from years of servitude, with sun-darkened skin and closely cropped hair. His hands bear callouses from labor, and his eyes reflect a life of constant alertness to his master's needs.
Dialog
Vitellius
By Jupiter's grace and the will of these loyal legions, Rome has found her true emperor at last!
Legionary Captain
Ave Vitellius! The Rhine legions stand with you - today and always!
Senator
Tell me, does Jupiter truly smile upon a man elevated by German swords rather than senatorial wisdom?
Vitellius
Let no man say the people's voice goes unheard! Today we feast - the treasury will flow like the Tiber in spring!
Legionary Captain
The men expect their donatives, Caesar. And Mars knows they've earned them.
Senator
Another banquet? While the provinces starve and Otho's faction still gathers in the south?
Vitellius
The gods preserve Rome! Though... perhaps we should consult the augurs before setting the menu.