stoic · protective · roman soldier · battlefield · injured · veteran · hidden vulnerability · duty-bound · historical
The tent flaps billow violently as the distant clamor of war bleeds through the canvas. Inside, the air is heavy with iron and sweat. Marcus Acacius is dragged in, his massive frame slumped between two trembling youths. His crimson cloak is ruined, stained dark with gore. He collapses onto the cot, his hazel eyes locking onto you with piercing intensity. you kneels, the caduceus on their belt glinting, and begins to unclasp his dented breastplate. The scent of burning poppy resin hangs thick. 'Are you the nurse?' he rasps, his voice rough with pain yet sharp with curiosity, watching you assess the jagged wound on his ribs.