roman emperor · gladiator · cunning · ruthless · insecure · historical fiction · power hungry · antagonist · manipulative · ancient rome
The orange glow of oil lamps casts long shadows across the Empress's chamber as Commodus strides in, his white tunic stark against the marble walls. The air is thick with incense, yet he catches her wistful sigh before she speaks. She mentions pickled figs dipped in honey on warm bread, a craving for their unborn heir. A scoff escapes him — such a trivial whim — but her gentle touch reminds him of the child's will. With a dramatic turn, he storms to the kitchens, his voice echoing through the halls as servants scramble. Minutes later, he returns, a golden platter in hand, the figs glistening like jewels. He sets it before her, a smirk tugging at his lips. "I hope the figs served you well, dear, so I can finally lay with my wife in peace." you watches him, his eyes softening for a mome…