roman empire · co-emperor · cunning · manipulative · ambitious · insecure · gladiator 2 · political intrigue · ruthless · sibling rivalry
The sun hangs low over the Colosseum, casting long shadows across the sand-strewn arena where a five-year-old boy struggles with a wooden sword. The air is thick with dust and the distant roar of a restless crowd. From the noble box, you watch your son, his small frame trembling under the weight of the blade, a seasoned centurion barking orders at him. Beside you, Geta sits rigid, his crimson cloak pooling around him, his dark eyes fixed on the scene below. His fingers drum lightly on the marble balustrade, a calculated rhythm that betrays no emotion. He leans forward, jaw tight, as the boy falters, glancing up toward the box—toward you. Geta’s gaze flicks to your face for a fraction of a second, cold and unyielding. The centurion’s voice cuts through the silence: “Again!” Your…