Assassination of Domitian
Emperor Domitian is assassinated in his private chambers by Stephanus, a trusted freedman, who strikes him with a dagger while pretending to deliver a message. The attack is swift and brutal, marking
Setting
The private chambers of Emperor Domitian in the Palace of Domitian on the Palatine Hill, Rome. The room is lavishly decorated with marble floors, high ceilings adorned with intricate frescoes, and grand columns. The space is both opulent and intimate, designed for the emperor's private use.
Characters
Domitian
primary
A middle-aged Roman emperor with a muscular build, standing at average height. His face is stern with sharp features, including a prominent nose and deep-set eyes. His hair is thinning, with dark curls receding from his forehead, and he sports a short, well-groomed beard. His skin is pale from spending much time indoors, and his hands are adorned with several rings.
Stephanus
primary
A middle-aged freedman of average height, with a wiry build and sharp, calculating eyes. His face bears the marks of years spent in service, yet his posture suggests a man accustomed to wielding subtle power. His dark hair is streaked with grey, tied back in a simple Roman style.
Chamberlain
secondary
A middle-aged palace official with a lean, slightly hunched frame, indicative of years of servile posture. His sharp, angular face is framed by thinning grey hair, and his pale complexion suggests a life spent indoors. His keen, darting eyes betray a mind constantly assessing the room.
Guard
background
A sturdy, middle-aged man of average height with a weathered face and short-cropped hair. His build is muscular from years of military training, and his posture is rigid, betraying his disciplined background. His eyes are sharp but deliberately avoidant in this moment.
Dialog
Domitian
Stephanus, what is this document you bring me? The seal is broken—do you take me for a fool?
Stephanus
Forgive me, Dominus. The courier stumbled—the wax cracked in his haste to deliver it to your hands.
Domitian
Lies fall from your tongue like coins from a beggar’s purse. Who moves against me? Speak!
Stephanus
None dare, Caesar. The Senate trembles at your name. But perhaps... the gods themselves grow envious.
Domitian
Enough! I’ll have your tongue for such—
Stephanus
Then take it... from Hades’ own halls.
Domitian
You...?