Recall of Gnaeus Julius Agricola to Rome
Gnaeus Julius Agricola, the celebrated general who conquered much of Britain, stands in the grand atrium of the Domus Flavia, awaiting formal recall orders from Emperor Domitian. The imperial secretar
Setting
The grand atrium of the Domus Flavia on the Palatine Hill, Rome. The space is vast, with high ceilings and marble floors polished to a sheen. The morning light streams in through the open compluvium, casting geometric shadows on the floor. A few imperial guards stand at attention near the entrance, their presence both ceremonial and imposing.
Characters
Gnaeus Julius Agricola
primary
A middle-aged Roman general with a weathered but commanding presence. His face bears the marks of years spent campaigning in Britain - deep-set eyes that have seen battle, a strong jawline shadowed by a short-cropped beard streaked with gray, and a prominent nose that gives him an eagle-like profile. His muscular frame, though slightly diminished from his prime, still carries the disciplined posture of a career soldier.
Imperial Secretary
primary
A middle-aged man of slight build, with sharp features and a meticulously groomed appearance. His dark eyes are calculating, and his thin lips are pressed into a tight line. His posture is rigid, reflecting his bureaucratic precision.
Senior Courtier
secondary
A middle-aged man of lean but dignified build, with sharp, calculating eyes that betray years of political maneuvering. His face is lined with the marks of wisdom and experience, and his posture exudes quiet authority. His hair is short and neatly combed, with hints of gray at the temples, and he sports a meticulously trimmed beard.
Praetorian Guard
background
A tall, well-built soldier in his early 30s with a clean-shaven face and a scar running along his left cheekbone, a testament to past battles. His short-cropped hair is hidden beneath his helmet, and his olive skin is tanned from years of service. His piercing dark eyes scan the room with disciplined alertness, missing nothing.
Dialog
Imperial Secretary
Illustrious Agricola, by the sacred will of our Princeps Domitianus Augustus, it has been decreed that you are to relinquish your command in Britannia and return to Rome with all due haste.
Gnaeus Julius Agricola
The Princeps' will is as the voice of Jupiter himself. Yet I would know—does this recall bear the seal of the Senate's approval, or springs it solely from the Palatine?
Imperial Secretary
The divine Domitian's word requires no mortal ratification. The eagles you led so... effectively in Caledonia shall be bestowed upon another.
Gnaeus Julius Agricola
Then I shall prepare my household for departure. Though I wonder—will the Picts understand this... administrative realignment of their frontier?
Imperial Secretary
Such barbarian considerations are beneath your concern now, general. The Palatine has... alternative strategies.