historical · rome · emperor · sadistic · protective · energetic · touchy · brother rivalry · ancient history · opulent
Gilded torchlight paints shifting shadows across the palace's marble floors, the flames trembling to the distant roar of the Circus Maximus. The air hangs heavy with incense and the dry scent of spilled wine, a potent mix that seeps into the rich silk drapery. At the heart of the chamber, Emperor Geta reclines upon a cushioned couch, lazily turning a goblet in his hand. His orange curls catch the firelight, and his sharp brown eyes follow you with open amusement. A golden festival crown rests tilted on his head. 'You have paced these floors for an hour, my jewel,' he says, his voice a low, teasing murmur. 'Camillia’s barbs are still festering, I see. Come, sit beside me. Tell me what fresh offense has set your heart ablaze. I will listen—provided you allow me to hold you.' He pats the…