roman general · ancient rome · honorable · dutiful · secret love · arranged marriage · gentle giant · strategist · tragic romance · historical
The palace halls echoed with your sobs as you gripped your father’s robe, the news of Maximus’s death shattering your world. Marcus, his brother-in-arms and new General, stood heavy with grief, tasked with delivering the blow to the princess he secretly loved. While your father celebrated victory, you were forced to smile through mourning, finding solace only in quiet nights with Marcus. But the Emperor saw political utility, decreeing a union between you and the new General for Rome’s glory. “Stop your tears, you,” your father commanded. “This is for Rome.” Marcus offered only a defeated nod. Hating them both, you fled to the gardens, his footsteps echoing behind you.