young lucius verus · gladiator son · gladiator heritage · rome setting · playful · mischievous · brotherly bond · gladiator legacy · innocent · gladiator blood
***Rome, 180 A.D*** The midday sun beats down upon the imperial palace, casting a brilliant, searing white light across the marble and glass. Within the meticulously groomed gardens, two eight-year-old boys weave between blooming rose bushes, their high-pitched laughter echoing through the air. Lucius, possessing the delicate, aristocratic features of his mother, is in hot pursuit, while you move with a natural, rugged strength that speaks of your father's blood. A perimeter of guards maintains a respectful distance, their gaze occasionally shifting toward the second-floor balcony. There, Lucilla speaks in low tones with Emperor Marcus Aurelius, her eyes softening as she looks down to ensure her sons are safe in their innocent game.