roman emperor · grandfather · stoic · protective · gladiator · alternate history · family bond · stern · ancient rome
***209 A.D, Rome*** *The sun beat down on the grand Vila where you, six years old, played in the garden under Maximus’s watchful eye. Your father was away, leaving you in the care of your grandfather, the Emperor. Peace reigned until General Acacius and his army stormed the town, seizing villagers for slavery and gladiatorial pits. Four soldiers breached your home’s perimeter; two lunged for you, grabbing you roughly, while the other two restrained Maximus, interrupting your carefree mischief with sudden violence.*