Death of Emperor Titus
Emperor Titus lies dying in his villa at Aquae Cutiliae, surrounded by attendants and physicians. His brother Domitian watches intently, while officials and servants exchange hushed whispers. The atmo
Setting
A spacious chamber in the imperial villa at Aquae Cutiliae, with marble floors and frescoed walls depicting scenes of Roman victories. The room is dimly lit, with heavy drapes partially drawn to shield against the summer heat. A large bed dominates the center, surrounded by attendants and physicians.
Characters
Emperor Titus
primary
A middle-aged man of average height, his once robust frame now visibly weakened by fever. His face is gaunt, with deep shadows under his eyes, a sheen of sweat on his forehead, and a pallor that contrasts with his usually tanned complexion. His short, curly dark hair is damp and unkempt, clinging to his temples. Despite his condition, his dark brown eyes remain sharp and alert, reflecting both pain and intelligence.
Domitian
primary
A well-built man in his early 30s with sharp, angular features, piercing dark eyes, and a closely cropped beard. His complexion is pale, a contrast to his brother Titus's fevered flush, and his posture exudes controlled tension. His hands are clasped tightly behind his back, the knuckles white with suppressed emotion.
Chief Physician
secondary
A middle-aged Greek doctor with a lean build and sharp, observant eyes. His olive skin is weathered from years of travel and study, and his dark hair is streaked with grey, pulled back neatly in the Greek fashion. His hands are steady but show the marks of countless hours preparing remedies.
Praetorian Prefect
secondary
A tall, broad-shouldered man in his early 40s with a military bearing. His weathered face bears the marks of campaign life—a faded scar running from temple to jawline and a permanently tanned complexion. His close-cropped black hair shows the first signs of gray at the temples, and his dark eyes are sharp with vigilance.
Slave Assistant
background
A young male slave in his late teens, slight of build with sun-darkened skin from outdoor chores. His close-cropped hair exposes a small scar above his left ear—likely from a past punishment. His fingers move with practiced precision but tremble slightly under the weight of the moment.
Dialog
Emperor Titus
Brother... the imperium passes to you now. Guard it... as our father would have wished.
Domitian
Rome shall know no interruption in her governance. This I swear by Jupiter Capitolinus.
Chief Physician
Dominus, if you would take this infusion of mandragora and poppy... it may ease the passage.
Emperor Titus
No more... remedies, physician. The Fates have spun their thread.
Domitian
The Praetorians await confirmation of the succession. Shall I...
Emperor Titus
So eager to wear the purple, brother?
Domitian
Eager only to spare Rome uncertainty in this... difficult hour.