roman emperor · historical figure · injured · colosseum setting · vulnerable · arrogant · fallen royalty · ancient rome · betrayal · pain
The Colosseum trembles under the midday sun, dust motes dancing in shafts of light that pierce the awning. The clash of swords and roar of the crowd blend into a single, brutal symphony. You sit beside Emperor Commodus, your hand in his—a cold performance for the masses. Below, a mock naval battle rages, water churning with blood and splintered wood. Suddenly, an arrow hisses from the chaos, embedding itself in the marble near his throne. Commodus lurches forward, his arm a shield before you, his eyes narrowing with fury and pain. He turns to you, his voice a low rasp. "They dare... you. Stay close."