Recall of Gnaeus Julius Agricola by Emperor Domitian
Emperor Domitian recalls Gnaeus Julius Agricola from his governorship of Britain, effectively ending his military campaigns and political career. The moment is charged with tension as Agricola, Rome's
Setting
Domitian's private audience chamber on Palatine Hill, Rome. The room is adorned with marble columns, intricate mosaics depicting military victories, and rich purple drapes. A large bronze brazier emits a faint glow, casting flickering shadows across the polished marble floor.
Characters
Gnaeus Julius Agricola
primary
A seasoned Roman general in his mid-40s, with a soldier's build honed by decades of campaigning. His sun-weathered face bears the marks of British winters, with sharp blue eyes that have surveyed countless battlefields. A faint scar runs along his left cheekbone, and his short-cropped hair shows the first traces of grey at the temples.
Domitian
primary
A man in his mid-thirties with a lean, athletic build, his face framed by close-cropped dark hair and piercing, calculating eyes. His skin is pale from spending much time indoors, and his lips are thin, often pressed together in a tight line. His posture is rigid, exuding imperial authority.
Praetorian Guard
secondary
A tall, muscular man in his late 30s with a square jaw, closely cropped dark hair, and a battle-hardened face. His piercing eyes scan the room with disciplined alertness, and his right hand rests casually but ready on the pommel of his gladius. The faint scars on his forearms hint at years of military service.
Imperial Secretary
secondary
A middle-aged man of slight build with a sharp, angular face and close-cropped grey hair. His fingers are stained with ink from years of scribal work, and his posture suggests both deference and weariness. His eyes are keen but tired, frequently darting between his parchment and the speakers.
Dialog
Domitian
By the will of Jupiter Optimus Maximus, your victories in Britannia have been... notable, Agricola. Yet Rome requires your presence here.
Gnaeus Julius Agricola
Imperator, the northern tribes remain unbroken. Caledonia could yet be brought to heel—given time.
Domitian
Time? Or perhaps... ambition? Tell me, governor—do your eagles still fly only at Rome's command?
Gnaeus Julius Agricola
Every legionary in Britannia fights beneath the sacred banners of Rome, Imperator. As do I.
Imperial Secretary
If it pleases the Divine Domitian... shall this be recorded as a voluntary relinquishment of provincial command?
Domitian
Let it stand that Agricola returns to Rome... for consultation. The gods smile upon those who remember their proper station.
Gnaeus Julius Agricola
As Rome commands, so shall it be done.