Death of Emperor Titus
Emperor Titus lies dying in his bedchamber, surrounded by physicians and advisors. His brother Domitian watches closely, while tensions over succession simmer beneath the surface.
Setting
The imperial bedchamber in the Domus Flavia on Palatine Hill, Rome. The room is spacious with high ceilings, adorned with frescoes depicting Roman victories. The large bed dominates the center, surrounded by physicians and advisors.
Characters
Emperor Titus
primary
A once robust and commanding figure now visibly weakened by illness, with sunken cheeks and pallid skin. His dark brown eyes, though dimmed by pain, retain a flicker of their former intensity. His short, curly hair is streaked with gray, and his muscular frame has become gaunt.
Domitian
primary
A man in his early 30s, with sharp features and piercing dark eyes that betray his calculating nature. His build is lean but strong, with the bearing of someone accustomed to both military discipline and courtly intrigue. His hair is dark and closely cropped in the Roman style, with a slight wave that hints at his Flavian lineage.
Chief Physician
secondary
A middle-aged man of Greek origin, with a lean but sturdy build, indicative of a life spent in study and practice. His olive skin is marked by faint lines of worry and concentration, and his dark, intelligent eyes are framed by thick brows. His hair is short and slightly greying, kept neatly in the Roman style despite his Hellenic heritage.
Senatorial Advisor
secondary
A middle-aged patrician with sharp, calculating eyes and a lean, aristocratic frame. His face bears the lines of years spent in political maneuvering, and his posture exudes quiet authority. His dark hair is streaked with gray, neatly trimmed in the Roman style.
Assistant Physician
background
A lean, wiry man in his early 30s with sunken cheeks and dark, tired eyes. His hands are calloused from years of grinding herbs and preparing remedies. His olive skin is marked with faint scars from accidental burns and cuts.
Dialog
Emperor Titus
By Jupiter's will, I see the shadows lengthening... Tell me, physician, does your art still hold any light?
Chief Physician
The humors rage like the Tiber in flood, Dominus. We must attempt one final balancing... if your strength permits.
Domitian
Surely Rome cannot afford such uncertainty. Brother, the state requires clear dispositions... while your wisdom still guides us.
Emperor Titus
Ah, Domitian... ever the dutiful steward. Tell me, when you stand where I lie now, will you remember our father's lessons about power?
Chief Physician
The fever burns like Vulcan's forge... Perhaps if we...
Domitian
The empire stands upon foundations laid by our family. I would be remiss not to ensure... continuity.
Emperor Titus
Then let us pray the Lares of our house remember mercy... when they judge what follows this night.