The Assassination of the Emperor Commodus (The Play) Part 2

ACT 4.

SCENE I.

At the impluvium of the Imperial Palace.

The next day, Commodus greets the procurator of Paphlagonia.

COMMODUS.

Procurator, ’tis a pleasure to have thee here within my magnificent home.

FELIX.

Emperor, I am grateful to be in thy presence.

COMMODUS.

Come hither, procurator! Let us enter the cameranious splendour of the Imperial Palace.

FELIX.

I would be delighted to behold the interior façade of this splendid palace.

COMMODUS.

I contemplate a possible lengthy journey to Antioch, in the eastern provinces, or perchance the city of Athens.

FELIX.

I fancy the wondrous sounds of Athens. ’Tis a city rich in history and glory.

COMMODUS.

I prefer the calm countryside to the obstreperous bustle of Rome, yet I bear a fond attachment to Athens.

FELIX.

’Tis indeed a fascinating city, compared to the unique provinces of Asia Minor.

COMMODUS.

I have heard that countless treasures yet lie undiscovered in that remote region of the Empire.

FELIX.

True! Yet I delight in the aqueducts, arches, forums, circuses, bridges, baths, and lively amphitheatres of Rome. I envy thee. Were I emperor, I would make Rome the absolute centre of the world.

COMMODUS.

Thou hast vision, procurator. One day, perchance, thou shalt inherit my excellent qualities.

FELIX.

Thy distinguished traits are incomparable to those of other men, Emperor.

COMMODUS.

Verily, I have fully demonstrated my just merits and glorious acts for the behoof of Rome and her people.

FELIX.

I must commend thee. I once dwelt in Rome, and never was it as magnificent as it is now.

COMMODUS.

My poor father lacked my great vision. He was ever occupied with preserving the Empire.

FELIX.

Thy father was a proud Roman. I knew him well; he was a wise man.

COMMODUS.

Indeed! I remember him well. I accompanied him during the Marcomannic Wars and on a tour of the Eastern provinces, when the Empire was under threat.

FELIX.

Thy father and grandfather were impeccable emperors.

COMMODUS.

Not since Titus succeeded Vespasian hath an emperor’s lineage been honoured as mine was.

FELIX.

Aye, Emperor.

COMMODUS.

I invited thee hither to speak of the Plebeian Games.

FELIX.

I am honoured by thine invitation, Emperor.

COMMODUS.

It shall be a spectacle like no other. The Colosseum shall brim with noble patricians, Senators, and dignitaries. The arena shall be electrifying. We shall be entertained by fierce and daring Moors, Dacians, Britons, Gauls, Greeks, and Goths, amongst other gladiators.

SCENE II.

At the vestibulum of the Senate.

Laetus arrives and speaks with Quirinus in private.

QUIRINUS.

Laetus, Prefect of the Praetorian Guard.

LAETUS.

Quirinus, elite member of the Senate.

QUIRINUS.

What do I owe the honour of thy visit to the Senate?

LAETUS.

I believe thou knowest the reason for my coming.

QUIRINUS.

When shall the assassination of the Emperor take place?

LAETUS.

The day hath not yet been confirmed. Yet it shall betide very soon.

QUIRINUS.

Within a week, or but days?

LAETUS.

I dare say, within a matter of days.

QUIRINUS.

So soon?

LAETUS.

Aye! We can tarry no longer.

QUIRINUS.

I agree.

LAETUS.

Therefore, may I assume the Senate shall not oppose the assassination?

QUIRINUS.

The Senate shall concern itself with the process, not the act of assassination itself.

LAETUS.

As ever, the Senate refuses to soil its hands with blood, yet desires us to do its bidding.

QUIRINUS.

We are men of reputation and prestige.

LAETUS.

Civil men none of us are at heart. We are by nature men of blatant greed and corruption.

QUIRINUS.

True, but is it not better to be powerful than powerless, in thy opinion?

LAETUS.

Without power, we are subservient to rulers who govern with total dominion.

QUIRINUS.

That I do not refute; worse when that ruler hath become a dictatorial tyrant, such as Commodus.

LAETUS.

The Emperor shall never relinquish his power.

QUIRINUS.

That I acknowledge, and the realisation of that truth weighs on me daily.

LAETUS.

Therefore, we must procure his removal from power immediately.

SCENE III.

At the compluvium, within the Imperial Palace.

Eclectus has returned to the palace, after speaking to Pertinax.

MARCIA.

Eclectus, thou hast returned. Hast thou spoken to the prefect yet?

ECLECTUS.

Aye!

MARCIA.

We must know whether or not he is fully committed to the cause.

ECLECTUS.

When I spoke to him, he was somewhat hesitant to proceed with his participation. He feared the emperor’s wrath.

MARCIA.

Coward! Are we to place our complete trust in this man?

ECLECTUS.

We must, if we are to execute our plan. We must convince him even more.

MARCIA.

But how? What else can we offer him besides the power of being the new emperor?

ECLECTUS.

Perhaps thy seductive influence could persuade him in the end.

MARCIA.

Nay, I cannot risk being seen by the wandering eyes of the emperor and his observers. We must devise another way to persuade the prefect.

ECLECTUS.

We could bribe him, but at this point, that would be more risky for us. I shall attempt everything!

MARCIA.

Then what shall we do instead?

ECLECTUS.

We must convince him that he alone shall be the new emperor after the death of Commodus.

MARCIA.

Do what thou must do, Eclectus, but do not fail!

ECLECTUS.

I shall not!

MARCIA.

I am anxious as well, and I don’t know if we shall succeed.

ECLECTUS.

Do not fret! We shall succeed in our endeavour. Soon, the emperor shall be dead.

MARCIA.

If we do not succeed, we shall all be dead within the hour.

ECLECTUS.

That I do not doubt at all!

MARCIA.

We cannot afford any senseless mistakes in the preparation of the assassination.

ECLECTUS.

Every precaution shall be taken. I guarantee thee that the emperor shall be murdered, and we shall be there to witness his demise.

SCENE IV.

At the Capitoline Hills, near the Temple of Virtue.

Eclectus and Quirinus meet to discuss the planned assassination of Commodus.

ECLECTUS.

I shall be brief and not take much of thy time, Senator.

QUIRINUS.

Hast thou new tidings about the date of the assassination of the emperor?

ECLECTUS.

It shall occur within the next few days.

QUIRINUS.

Then thou art certain of this information?

ECLECTUS.

I can assure thee that the emperor shall soon be dead, and Rome once more shall be liberated from his horrific tyranny and imperious madness.

QUIRINUS.

If I may query thee, Eclectus, what exactly dost thou stand to gain from his assassination?

ECLECTUS.

Everything!

QUIRINUS.

Explain! I don’t understand, since thou art his favourite chamberlain.

ECLECTUS.

True! But ’tis very simple, Senator. By removing the emperor from power, I can become the praetorian prefect of the Roman Imperial Guard.

QUIRINUS.

Clever of thee, but thou realisest that Laetus would have to be killed. And I know him well enough to say he shall not go willingly.

ECLECTUS.

Naturally, I do not expect him to. ’Tis regrettable that he must be murdered. Nonetheless, I am prepared for the audacious challenge.

QUIRINUS.

I should hope, for the sake of Rome, that we shall be liberated of this maniacal emperor.

ECLECTUS.

Rome shall be in debt to us for this necessary action. I trust that the Senate shall not be absent when the hour of the assassination arriveth.

QUIRINUS.

I can guarantee thee that the Senate shall not shed a tear for Commodus. On the contrary, the Senate shall be relieved. The Senate shall declare him a de facto damnatio memoriae or a public enemy.

ECLECTUS.

Good! Everything is ready, and we must ensure the secrecy of the plan. We cannot afford any silly mistakes at this point in time.

QUIRINUS.

There is too much to lose and risk.

ECLECTUS.

I am truly aware of that feasible circumstance.

QUIRINUS.

Then let us not be careless in our calculative actions.

ECLECTUS.

I totally agree with thee, Senator. It would not be to our decisive advantage.

QUIRINUS.

I must go now. The Senate awaits me.

SCENE V.

At the Circus Maximus.

Commodus has invited Aelius to challenge him to a chariot race. They speak afterwards, once the race has finished.

COMMODUS.

'Twas a fine race, Aelius, and thou wert an admirable opponent.

AELIUS.

Thou wert a deserving victor, sire.

COMMODUS.

Hast thou any tidings of a suspected conspiracy against me?

AELIUS.

Nay, emperor! I have not yet noticed or heard any relevant information on the matter.

COMMODUS.

Then thou must be more observant.

AELIUS.

Aye! I shall be more watchful in my daily observations.

COMMODUS.

Thou art aware that I have innumerable foes amidst the Senate and the patricians.

AELIUS.

I am aware of that fact.

COMMODUS.

Amongst the indolent masses, there are ambitious servants of Rome and the empire. I seek these trustworthy men to move within the ranks.

AELIUS.

I am here to serve thee, sire!

COMMODUS.

I am thinking of returning to the estate at Lanuvium, but I cannot depart until I am absolutely certain that my foes are not plotting a deliberate conspiracy against me. I need thee to continue to watch over the Roman Imperial Guard. I know I can trust the centurions and legionaries of the Roman army; however, ’tis the Imperial Guard I cannot trust at present.

AELIUS.

I was not cognisant of this distrust towards the Roman Imperial Guard.

COMMODUS.

Thou must know one thing, Aelius: there is ultimately an uncomfortable alliance a Roman Imperial Guard must forge when serving.

AELIUS.

And what is that alliance?

COMMODUS.

To serve the emperor or to serve his companions. There is an insatiable greed, an indomitable force that proves too enticing to dismiss. ’Tis called power!

AELIUS.

I am but thine humble servant.

COMMODUS.

Behold the city of Rome ahead. I have often wondered if ’tis better to embrace it or flee from it.

AELIUS.

Rome is thy city, and the Roman people cherish thee, sire.

COMMODUS.

The Roman people cherish me because I tax the senatorial order and erect new edifices. All I desire is to revel in peace and happiness in mine age of glory, and to praise the felicitas Commodi, the glorious libertas, my pietas, providentia, my victoria and virtus aeterna. I want there to be no doubt that this “Golden Age” hath been achieved through my munificence, as Nobilissimus Princeps.

AELIUS.

Thou art ever munificent.

SCENE VI.

At the impluvium of the Imperial Palace.

Commodus and Eclectus gather to discuss his suspicion of a conspiracy against him.

COMMODUS.

I sense, Eclectus, that there is a real threat in the form of a conspiracy against me that is developing with alarming speed.

ECLECTUS.

In what capacity, emperor?

COMMODUS.

In the most vile manner conceived by cowards.

ECLECTUS.

Hast thou any indication of this?

COMMODUS.

More than a casual indication, I believe.

ECLECTUS.

I am under the general impression that thou knowest more than thou art revealing.

COMMODUS.

If that be so, then let my dastardly foes be wary of my supreme wrath.

ECLECTUS.

Hast thou any names of the conspirators?

COMMODUS.

Not yet fully disclosed. However, when I have all the names of those pusillanimous miscreants, I shall execute them forthwith. I am confident of that eventuality.

ECLECTUS.

I hope that if there be a terrible conspiracy against thee, those persons shall be apprehended in the end.

COMMODUS.

Eclectus, what wouldst thou do if thou knewest of the wicked intentions of the conspirators?

ECLECTUS.

What art thou implying?

COMMODUS.

’Tis simple! If thou wert emperor, wouldst thou execute anyone on the basis of mere conjecture?

ECLECTUS.

Only if there were indisputable evidence of the involvement of that person or persons.

COMMODUS.

Persons hast thou uttered? Then thou suspectest several individuals are involved in this supposed plot to murder me?

ECLECTUS.

’Tis only mere supposition, emperor. Are we not making a baseless assumption without incontrovertible facts?

COMMODUS.

Perchance, but I shall not rest until I have discovered the true veracity of that implication.

ECLECTUS.

I suspect the Imperial Guards would be aware of the conspirators.

COMMODUS.

Art thou certain of that, Eclectus?

ECLECTUS.

Dost thou believe the daring conspirators are amongst the Imperial Guards of the palace?

COMMODUS.

At this point in time, wherefore should I distrust them, unless thou knowest otherwise?

ECLECTUS.

Nay! Do not insinuate that I am involved in this supposed plot to murder thee.

COMMODUS.

Murder me? I did not say murder. What dost thou mean?

ECLECTUS.

Forgive me, emperor! By no means did I insinuate thy murder. I was merely stating the possibility of that occurrence.

ACT 5

SCENE I

At the vestibulum of the Imperial Palace.

ECLECTUS.

Marcia, I must speak to thee at once.

MARCIA.

What hath unsettled thee, Eclectus?

ECLECTUS.

The Emperor!

MARCIA.

Please explain!

ECLECTUS.

I have finished a troubling conversation with him.

MARCIA.

What is it? Hath he discovered our plot?

ECLECTUS.

Nay, but he is beginning to suspect the conspiracy—and worse, he is distrusting everyone, including the Roman Imperial Guard and me.

MARCIA.

Art thou certain of that actuality?

ECLECTUS.

Aye! I know the Emperor as well as thou knowest him.

MARCIA.

True! What hath occurred that hath unnerved him?

ECLECTUS.

That I do not know! Yet something—or someone—hath caused him to be suspicious of a conspiracy against him.

MARCIA.

What—or who?

ECLECTUS.

That is the question that must be answered hereafter.

MARCIA.

We do not have much time to wait, since the Emperor is not immune to assassination plots against his life.

ECLECTUS.

I agree, and we must be even more cautious in our actions.

MARCIA.

We must convince him, through our conduct, that we are not plotting against him.

ECLECTUS.

Thou art correct! I shall inform thee of any new revelations.

MARCIA.

And I shall do the same.

ECLECTUS.

The Emperor hath left the palace.

MARCIA.

Thou must speak to Laetus and Pertinax again.

ECLECTUS.

I shall!

MARCIA.

Good! Then let us not raise any unnecessary suspicion that might betray our direct participation.

SCENE II

At the peristyle of the courtyard.

Commodus has returned to the palace. He hath brought with him a singular gladiator from the arena to accompany him. He summons all his servants of the palace, including Eclectus. Marcia is summoned as well.

COMMODUS.

I am glad that all of my servants are present.

ECLECTUS.

What hath prompted this occasion, Emperor?

COMMODUS.

I have brought a gladiator with me to the palace.

MARCIA.

I do not understand either.

COMMODUS.

Hark to my words! It hath been some time now since I have had a respectable challenge within the palace. Therefore, I have brought a fierce gladiator for combat.

ECLECTUS.

Combat—within the Imperial Palace?

COMMODUS.

Indeed!

MARCIA.

Must we be present?

COMMODUS.

Dost thou find this sport of mine egregious?

MARCIA.

I much prefer to see thee in the arena than here. I do not wish for blood to be spilt within the beautiful courtyard.

COMMODUS.

Why should I concern myself with that, since the blood that shall be spilt shall not be mine?

MARCIA.

I understand, Emperor, but why must we be part of this bloody spectacle?

COMMODUS.

Dost thou believe I shall lose? Since when hast thou feared the sight of blood, Marcia?

ECLECTUS.

Forgive her candid demeanour, Emperor. But is it not better to wait, until we know for certain that thy conspirators are not amongst us?

COMMODUS.

Perhaps thou art right! However, I must prove to all my determined adversaries that I am not afraid of them.

ECLECTUS.

’Tis not a question of thy manhood or bravery, Emperor. ’Tis more a matter of thy safety.

COMMODUS.

Perhaps it would be better, Eclectus, if those who are my enemies were to witness my courage.

MARCIA.

Thou art courageous already!

COMMODUS.

I know I am!

ECLECTUS.

I beseech thee, Emperor—do not expose thyself to death!

Commodus ignores their pleas and battles with the gladiator, until he hath killed the unfortunate man.

COMMODUS.

Now, are ye content to see me the victor—safe and sound?

ECLECTUS.

Glory be to the Emperor!

COMMODUS.

Glory be to Rome!

MARCIA.

Glory be to the Exsuperatorius Commodus!

COMMODUS.

Let this serve as a monitory presage to all who dare to defy me.

SCENE III.

At the decorative throne room.

Commodus has invited the statesman and writer Cassius Dio once more to his palace.

COMMODUS.

I am thankful that thou hast accepted my gracious invitation to the palace once more.

CASSIUS DIO.

I am honoured, Emperor.

COMMODUS.

Hast thou pondered the marvellous proposition I set before thee previously?

CASSIUS DIO.

I have.

COMMODUS.

Then, hast thou decided to accept the generous offer?

CASSIUS DIO.

I have.

COMMODUS.

Do not keep me waiting any longer. Hast thou accepted?

CASSIUS DIO.

I have.

COMMODUS.

Excellent! I am most eager to know what shall be written about me.

CASSIUS DIO.

I imagine that history shall look favourably upon thee; although I cannot guarantee it.

COMMODUS.

History is much like the wretched Senate.

CASSIUS DIO.

I have heard that for each appearance in the arena, thou hast charged the city of Rome a million sesterces, thereby straining the Roman economy.

COMMODUS.

I must emphasise that this was done to appease the Roman people and to stimulate the economy.

CASSIUS DIO.

I have also heard that thou grantest commands, governorships, and, increasingly, even the suffect consulships to the highest bidder.

COMMODUS.

That is because the man who proveth himself to me deserveth his just place within my vast empire.

CASSIUS DIO.

Is’t true that thou hast a passion for gladiatorial combat, and hast even appeared as a secutor?

COMMODUS.

True! Am I not a great gladiator?

CASSIUS DIO.

It is said that the empire is ruled by a cabal consisting of thy mistress Marcia, thy chamberlain Eclectus, and the praetorian prefect Quintus Aemilius Laetus. Is that accurate, Emperor?

COMMODUS.

That is an impertinent question, but since thou possesseth a furor scribendi and shalt be recording my historical significance, I shall excuse it. Let me tell thee, Cassius Dio: I rule alone. Soon, I shall abolish the power of the Senate.

CASSIUS DIO.

Is it true that thou didst attempt the extermination of the House of the Quinctilii?

COMMODUS.

The House of the Quinctilii...Let me tell thee: Cleander continued to sell public offices as if it were his private business. In the same year he was murdered, Pertinax uncovered a conspiracy led by two enemies of Cleander—Antistius Burrus, my brother-in-law, and Arrius Antoninus. Cleander fled to my estate in Laurentum, to the house of the Quinctilii, for protection, but the mob pursued him, calling for his head. The vigiles urbani were dispatched, but to no avail. To appease the crowd, I ordered the mutilated bodies of Cleander and his kin to be dragged through the streets of Rome, cast into the sewers, and left to rot.

CASSIUS DIO.

Forgive me, Emperor, if I persist in enquiring into such matters.

COMMODUS.

Let us rather speak of my greatness.

CASSIUS DIO.

Proceed.

COMMODUS.

Cassius Dio, I was born in Lanuvium, near Rome. I was named co-ruler and heir to my father, the Emperor Marcus Aurelius. I joined him in his campaign against the invading Germanic tribes along the Danube, and after his death, I soon became sole ruler of the vast Roman Empire. I tell thee this, for the Roman people must never forget it. I shall reveal more when next thou comest to visit me.

SCENE IV.

At the home of Laetus.

Eclectus has arrived to speak with Laetus about the assassination of the Emperor.

LAETUS.

What do I owe this visit, Eclectus?

ECLECTUS.

I have come to ensure that our plan remains in motion.

LAETUS.

The assassination of the Emperor?

ECLECTUS.

Aye.

LAETUS.

I perceive in thine eyes a sudden urgency.

ECLECTUS.

Thou art correct in thy perception.

LAETUS.

What hath befallen, if I may ask?

ECLECTUS.

The Emperor hath grown suspicious—of a conspiracy against him.

LAETUS.

How? In what manner?

ECLECTUS.

I believe someone hath alerted him, or he hath begun to suspect of his own accord. That is the mystery.

LAETUS.

We cannot afford to be predictable. We must slay him before it is too late. I shall not forget what befell Perennis and Cleander.

ECLECTUS.

We shall not suffer the same fate.

LAETUS.

Hast thou forgotten that we speak of a megalomaniac with a froward temper and merciless tyranny?

ECLECTUS.

I am wholly aware.

LAETUS.

Commodus’s depravity ceaseth not when he quitteth the arena. He hath an unnatural obsession with tormenting the physically disabled—even forcing men of dwarfism to combat each other with cleavers for the amusement of an audience. His penchant for torture weaves itself into every part of life. It is despicable.

ECLECTUS.

We shall not become his victims, Praetorian Prefect.

LAETUS.

How canst thou be certain?

ECLECTUS.

Because we shall not allow it.

LAETUS.

Thou hast not convinced me.

ECLECTUS.

Then hear this—soon, the Emperor shall be stone dead.

SCENE V

At the Via Labicana entering Rome, through the Aurelian Walls, via the ancient monumental gate of Porta Prenestina.

Commodus returns to Rome, after a couple of days in Lanuvium. He is greeted by his supporters, then visits the Prefect of Rome.

PERTINAX

Emperor, to what do I owe this visit?

COMMODUS

Art thou not happy to see me, Pertinax?

PERTINAX

Of course!

COMMODUS

Then why do I perceive the unnerving look in thine eyes?

PERTINAX

Because I did not expect thy visit.

COMMODUS

Doth thine emperor need a reason to justify his visit?

PERTINAX

Nay, Emperor!

COMMODUS

If thou must know, I come to speak about the Plebeian Games.

PERTINAX

I see!

COMMODUS

I have decided to change the date. Instead of January of the following year, I shall move it to the end of this month of December.

PERTINAX

Why the change of date?

COMMODUS

There is no specific inducement, except that I wish to celebrate the games sooner rather than later.

PERTINAX

What dost thou want me to do, Emperor?

COMMODUS

Perform thine administrative duties.

PERTINAX

Such as?

COMMODUS

I need thee to prepare the city of Rome for the Plebeian Games.

PERTINAX

I shall immediately effectuate that pending task!

COMMODUS

Good, then I entrust thee with the preparation of Rome. There shall be many guests at the important event.

PERTINAX

Thou canst entrust me, Emperor.

COMMODUS

I shall be leaving now. Do not disappoint me, Pertinax.

PERTINAX

I shall not!

COMMODUS

One other thing I have not mentioned.

PERTINAX

Yes?

COMMODUS

Hast thou noticed any peculiar change in the Praetorian Prefect?

PERTINAX

Thou meanest Laetus?

COMMODUS

Naturally!

PERTINAX

Nothing that I have perceived out of the ordinary, Emperor.

SCENE VI

At the Imperial Palace.

Commodus is sleeping after the wearisome trip, whilst Marcia and Eclectus share a private conversation outside the chamber of the Emperor.

ECLECTUS

Is the Emperor sound asleep?

MARCIA

He is, but we must whisper and be careful, since the echoes of our voices can be heard.

ECLECTUS

I wonder if 'tis the hour of his death.

MARCIA

What art thou insinuating?

ECLECTUS

Is it not better to murder the Emperor now than later?

MARCIA

Nay, 'tis not the time yet!

ECLECTUS

Wherefore?

MARCIA

Because the child that the Emperor is fond of is sleeping inside. We cannot afford to be seen. And I do not want to kill the orphan child. I too am fond of the lad. He is like a son to the Emperor and me.

ECLECTUS

I understand, but we must be callous. 'Tis the Emperor or us.

MARCIA

I said now is not the hour. When 'tis the hour, I shall poison him.

ECLECTUS

We have to distract the lad or send him abroad for a period of time.

MARCIA

Do not worry, I shall take care of the child.

ECLECTUS

What dost thou mean by that statement?

MARCIA

I mean, I shall occupy the child with a simple errand.

ECLECTUS

Each day that passeth, we must be ready for every circumstance and development.

MARCIA

I am afraid of Commodus.

ECLECTUS

I am as well. However, there is no turning back.

MARCIA

I dread his brutality. It hath begun to haunt me vividly.

ECLECTUS

We must be steadfast in our resolution, Marcia.

MARCIA

I shall try to be!

ECLECTUS

Thou art a strong woman!

MARCIA

Aye!

SCENE VII

At the street Vicus Iugarius.

Eclectus and Quirinus discuss the serious matter of the planned assassination of the Emperor.

QUIRINUS

I don’t have much time. There are members of the Senate that have devised a plan for the assassination of the Emperor.

ECLECTUS

What art thou saying, Senator?

QUIRINUS

Commodus shall be killed in two days.

ECLECTUS

Art thou mad? We have planned his murder for another three days at least.

QUIRINUS

I am afraid that the Senate cannot tarry any longer.

ECLECTUS

Where shall the murder take place?

QUIRINUS

Here, between the Vicus Tuscus and Vicus Iugarius.

ECLECTUS

Thou knowest that thine attempt shall fail.

QUIRINUS

Nay, for we have learnt at the Senate from a reliable source that the Emperor shall be riding his chariot between the streets of Argiletum and Via Nova. He shall then pass through this very same place we stand. Here, we shall have an assassin waiting to strike.

ECLECTUS

I was not apprised of that information, but if thou sayest so, then I must believe thee.

QUIRINUS

'Tis thy task to make certain that the Emperor appeareth, as he is scheduled. If not, all of us, including thyself, shall be quickly executed.

ECLECTUS

I am against this action. Is it not better to murder the Emperor in another manner that is less conspicuous and risky?

QUIRINUS

The Senate hath become impatient with the Emperor, and senseth that he shall abolish the power of the Senate, including murdering us—his immediate foes.

ECLECTUS

I understand that, but the Senate is risking everything that we have planned. Is there no way to dissuade the Senate? Thou must know that if thou failest, the consequences shall be mortiferous to us all who are involved in the assassination plot.

QUIRINUS

I fully realise that, yet we are not guaranteed success, even with thy plan.

ECLECTUS

I beg of thee to reconsider. Let us do it our way!

QUIRINUS

It hath been decided!

ECLECTUS

The Emperor shall not be that easy to murder. He knoweth that by exposing himself to the public, he becometh more susceptible to his lurking enemies.

QUIRINUS

Precisely! But thou hast forgotten one thing. Thou shalt be there to backstab him, when he is at the most vulnerable area of the city.

ECLECTUS

I cannot allow myself to be a part of this plan that is doomed to failure.

QUIRINUS

Thou hast no other choice. If thou dost not comply or adhere to the plan, then the Emperor shall be informed of thy participation in the attempt to assassinate him.

ECLECTUS

Thou shalt dare to expose me brazenly?

QUIRINUS

I bear no hostility towards thee, Eclectus, whatsoever. I am only doing the imperative bidding of the Senate that hath imposed this duty upon me.

ECLECTUS

Even at the cost of the absolute ruination of the Senate.

ACT VI

SCENE I

At the fountain in the garden, near the courtyard of the Imperial Palace.

Eclectus has returned to inform Marcia of the Senate’s plan.

MARCIA

I see utter fear in thine eyes, Eclectus. What hath so discomposed thee?

ECLECTUS

If I told thee, thou wouldst surely scream.

MARCIA

What is it? Tell me now!

ECLECTUS

I have spoken with Quirinus, a member of the Senate, regarding the plot to assassinate the Emperor.

MARCIA

What did he reveal?

ECLECTUS

He hath told me that, within two days, the Emperor shall be murdered.

MARCIA

Murdered! What meanest thou, and by whom?

ECLECTUS

Hush! Speak not that word aloud, lest the servants overhear our discourse.

MARCIA

Please, I must know more — in full detail!

ECLECTUS

According to Quirinus, the Emperor shall be riding between the Vicus Tuscus and the Vicus Jugarius, where an unknown assassin shall await him to strike.

MARCIA

What if the plot should fail? What shall we do to save ourselves?

ECLECTUS

I voiced that very concern and objected to the plan — yet he refused to reason with me.

MARCIA

Then what are we to do?

ECLECTUS

I have pondered that troubling question, but now I am resolved otherwise.

MARCIA

And what hast thou concluded?

ECLECTUS

Perhaps Quirinus’s idea is not so dreadful after all.

MARCIA

What dost thou imply?

ECLECTUS

Hast thou forgotten how he renamed everything? The Senate — to the Commodian Fortunate Senate, the legions — Commodianae, and the Roman people — Commodianus.

MARCIA

I have not forgotten, but what hath that to do with this plot?

ECLECTUS

Perhaps nothing — or perhaps everything.

MARCIA

Explain thyself!

ECLECTUS

If the Emperor be distracted, so too shall his mind be unfocused.

MARCIA

That doth not guarantee his death.

ECLECTUS

Indeed. Nevertheless, if the plot faileth, the Senate shall bear the blame — not we.

MARCIA

Perchance.

ECLECTUS

Fear not! I shall deal with Quirinus before he revealeth aught to the Emperor of our involvement.

SCENE II

At the Vicus Jugarius.

The day of the attempted assassination of Commodus. He departs from the Palatine Hill in his chariot, travelling through the Argiletum and the Via Nova, until he reaches the Vicus Jugarius. He is accompanied by Eclectus. This is the site where the Emperor is to be assassinated. However, the assassin has already been slain by an agent sent by Eclectus.

Commodus, startled and enraged, reacts to the failed attempt.

COMMODUS

How dare that fool attempt to murder me!

ECLECTUS

Art thou unharmed, Emperor?

COMMODUS

Indeed! But I must know the name of the culprit — and who sent him — at once.

ECLECTUS

We shall uncover that anon. What mattereth most is that thou art safe, Emperor. Let us return to the Imperial Palace at once. Do not risk thy life to another attempt!

They return to the Imperial Palace.

COMMODUS

Fool! How dare any man defy me with such impudence?

ECLECTUS

Thou must calm thyself.

COMMODUS

Calm myself? Thou askest me to be calm when mine own life hath been threatened?

ECLECTUS

I understand, Emperor.

COMMODUS

Summon the Praetorian Prefect!

ECLECTUS

At once, my lord!

COMMODUS

Wait! Mayhap he too was party to this treachery.

ECLECTUS

Perchance a rival from the provinces — or a conspirator within the Senate.

COMMODUS

Aye, the Senate! That archetypal den of vipers — ever scheming, ever envious. Only they knew of this journey.

ECLECTUS

What art thou resolved to do, Emperor?

COMMODUS

Soon thou shalt witness mine actions.

ECLECTUS

What dost thou plan, if I may ask?

COMMODUS

Thou shalt behold my wrath with thine own eyes!

ECLECTUS

Shall I alert the Imperial Guard?

COMMODUS

Nay! I shall see to it myself. I swear it — and I shall show no mercy to my enemies. I shall be fearless.

ECLECTUS

What wouldst thou have me do?

COMMODUS

Nothing — for now. I have told thee: I shall handle this matter.

ECLECTUS

Then I shall leave thee, Emperor.

SCENE III.

At the compluvium of the Imperial Palace.

Commodus has retreated to his bedchamber, still visibly affected, whilst Eclectus speaks to Marcia about the incident.

MARCIA.

What hath betided the emperor?

ECLECTUS.

He hath avoided a dramatic death.

MARCIA.

What art thou saying?

ECLECTUS.

There hath been a vicious attempt upon his life.

MARCIA.

When, and by whom?

ECLECTUS.

It happened on the Vicus Jugarius, as his chariot passed along.

MARCIA.

How didst thou know?

ECLECTUS.

I was riding with him at the time. Fortunately, I had knowledge in advance of the murderous plot and sent one to dispose of the intrepid assassin.

MARCIA.

Who informed thee? Tell me—I must know urgently.

ECLECTUS.

Quirinus! Dost thou not remember? I did forewarn thee of what he was planning.

MARCIA.

Imbecile! I did not think the Senate would dare proceed with such a foolish attempt at assassination.

ECLECTUS.

Nor did I at first. But nought from the Senate surpriseth me any longer.

MARCIA.

What shall become of us? What are we to do if Quirinus be taken? He shall surely divulge our plan unto the emperor. Once the emperor is apprised of this, he shall destroy us all with intense vehemence.

ECLECTUS.

I had taken that into serious consideration when Quirinus first told me.

MARCIA.

And what of Quirinus?

ECLECTUS.

I would not trouble thy mind with him. He is no longer a threat.

MARCIA.

What dost thou mean by that asseveration?

ECLECTUS.

Quirinus is dead.

MARCIA.

Dead? How? Was he slain by the emperor’s Imperial Guard?

ECLECTUS.

The Imperial Guard played no part in his death.

MARCIA.

Then who killed him?

ECLECTUS.

I sent an assassin to silence him for good.

SCENE IV.

At the Throne Room.

Commodus has summoned Laetus and Pertinax to the palace. He sits upon his palatial throne, enraged.

COMMODUS.

How was this assassin able to breach the ranks of the Imperial Guard?

LAETUS.

Forgive me, Emperor! Thou must understand that we do not govern the movements of every assassin in Rome.

COMMODUS.

Excuses! And thou, Pertinax—what hast thou to say regarding this assassination plot?

PERTINAX.

I concur with the praetorian prefect. How might we prevent such an act if we are not granted absolute authority over the members of the Senate?

COMMODUS.

True. But that matter shall soon be rectified. Regardless, ye both have failed me most pathetically.

LAETUS.

We shall not fail thee again, mine Emperor!

COMMODUS.

If there be a next time, thou shalt be mindful of thy duties—or I shall remind thee one final time, without warning!

PERTINAX.

There is no need for that, sire.

COMMODUS.

Then displease me no more!

PERTINAX.

I shall not!

COMMODUS.

Then fail me not—for thine own sake!

PERTINAX.

Aye.

COMMODUS.

Thou art excused!

Pertinax exits the Imperial Palace, whilst Laetus remains behind.

COMMODUS.

Laetus, come forth!

LAETUS.

Aye, Emperor.

COMMODUS.

Thou art an intelligent man, art thou not?

LAETUS.

If thou considerest me so, sire.

COMMODUS.

If thou wert Emperor, Laetus, wouldst thou forgive such gross negligence by thy praetorian prefect?

LAETUS.

I would not.

COMMODUS.

Then let this serve as a manifest warning unto thee. If I discover that thou, or any known to thee, were involved in this treacherous attempt—doubt not that I shall eliminate thee and all thy allies, without remorse.

LAETUS.

I give thee my solemn word, Emperor, that I was not party to the plot.

COMMODUS.

Thou art excused.

SCENE V.

At the corner of the Via Nova.

Eclectus meets with Laetus in secrecy.

LAETUS.

Thou wert not seen by any of the Imperial Guards?

ECLECTUS.

I believe I was not.

LAETUS.

And wert thou involved in the murder plot?

ECLECTUS.

I was not!

LAETUS.

Then who was behind the assassination attempt?

ECLECTUS.

Quirinus, a member of the Senate.

LAETUS.

Is he dead?

ECLECTUS.

Aye! I had sent someone to slay him ere he could reveal our names and our plan to murder the Emperor.

LAETUS.

Wert thou detected by the Roman Imperial Guard?

ECLECTUS.

Nay! I was discreet in mine actions, I told thee.

LAETUS.

What are we to do next? The Emperor is enraged and shall not rest until he hath uncovered the ultimate truth.

ECLECTUS.

I am fully aware of that circumstance, but we must be prudent and not appear indifferent.

LAETUS.

I agree. But what must we do?

ECLECTUS.

We must continue with our plan. At this moment, there is no other alternative.

LAETUS.

The Emperor shall be more suspicious of us.

ECLECTUS.

Perhaps. But sooner or later, he shall discover our plot—if we allow him to live.

LAETUS.

We must accelerate his assassination.

ECLECTUS.

We shall murder him when the occasion doth arise.

LAETUS.

It must betide either today or on the morrow.

ECLECTUS.

I shall inform thee when the deed is done.

LAETUS.

I shall await the tidings.

ECLECTUS.

Let us hope we are fortunate in our endeavour.

SCENE VI.

Within a chamber of the Coliseum.

Aelius informs Commodus that he has pertinent information about the assassination plot of Laetus, Eclectus, and Marcia.

COMMODUS.

What tidings hast thou brought me today?

AELIUS.

I have an urgent revelation, sire, that thou must know with immediacy.

COMMODUS.

Well, tell me then. What is this urgency?

AELIUS.

'Tis a sinister plot to assassinate thee!

COMMODUS.

Art thou referring to the recent attempt at the Vicus Jugarius?

AELIUS.

I fear this machination is more grievous. Though I am not certain whether 'tis connected to that attack.

COMMODUS.

Who is behind this revolting conspiracy to murder me?

AELIUS.

The established culprits are as follows—

COMMODUS.

Wait, before thou answerest—are they aligned with the corrupt Senate?

AELIUS.

I believe so, sire.

COMMODUS.

Then reveal their filthy names, that they shall be known to me. I shall make an example of them, so the Roman people see what I do to my seditious enemies.

AELIUS.

The names given to me were Cornelius, Pertinax, Eclectus, Laetus, and Marcia. They are the principal leaders of the conspiracy.

COMMODUS.

They shall be my lambs to slaughter! How much I entrusted them with my power—and they repaid my generosity with this inglorious act of treason. I once thought the impoverished people of the insulae were leeches, but worse is the indomitable greed of the Senate and those officials who worshipped me in public, and stabbed me in private.

AELIUS.

Thou art still beloved by the people of Rome.

COMMODUS.

But not by the Imperial Guard, nor by my corrupted officials.

AELIUS.

What are thine orders, sire? Shall I instruct the Guard to apprehend those named?

COMMODUS.

Nay—for now, thou shalt do nothing.

AELIUS.

If they flee the city?

COMMODUS.

I would not worry. They shall not soon escape the indomitable force that shall be my vindictive punishment.

AELIUS.

I have served thee obediently, sire. Is there aught else thou wouldst have me do?

COMMODUS.

There is one thing more—I shall make a list of all those conniving scoundrels who conspired against me, and upon the morrow, they shall all be executed, as traitors to Rome and the Empire.

AELIUS.

Aye! Long live Rome, and long live the Emperor!

SCENE VII.

At the bedchamber of the Imperial Palace.

Commodus has returned, now knowing the names of the traitors. Marcia and the orphan child are with him, whilst Eclectus waits anxiously outside. Commodus takes his customary nap after dismissing Eclectus.

Before he sleeps, he takes a wax tablet made from a thin strip of basswood, which grows beneath the bark of the linden tree, and writes down the names of those to be put to death that night.

Marcia's name is at the top of the list, followed by Laetus and Eclectus, and a large number of senators, including Cornelius, who had served his late father, Marcus Aurelius.

COMMODUS.

Dost thou not admire Philocommodus and his allegiance to me?

MARCIA.

Thou knowest that mine affection for the lad is as genuine as thine.

COMMODUS.

The child knoweth of my favour to those that adore me. Let us drink some merum and savour its marvellous taste.

MARCIA.

Of course, Emperor.

COMMODUS.

How wise I thought myself to replace Empress Crispina with thee. She did not approve of my insidious behaviour.

MARCIA.

Wherefore dost thou mention her name to me? Art thou weary of my presence?

COMMODUS.

Should I be?

MARCIA.

Never! Thou art mine Emperor, and I would die for thee.

COMMODUS.

Die? How bold are thy words, Marcia, even when heartless assassins are near.

MARCIA.

Dost thou consider me thine assassin?

COMMODUS.

Should I?

MARCIA.

Nay! Let us drink—for the sake of Rome, and the Empire.

COMMODUS.

Then ask no more. Now I must take a bath. We shall continue our discourse afterwards.

Marcia steps outside, where Eclectus is waiting.

ECLECTUS.

Where is the Emperor? Is he asleep?

MARCIA.

Nay, he is presently taking a bath.

ECLECTUS.

Then ‘tis the hour to murder him!

MARCIA.

I have prepared the poison for his drink—and he hath drunk it. I have seen his bacchanalian countenance once too often. This is my reward for my love and devotion, after years of enduring his arrogance and madness. But he—the drunken sot—shall not outwit a woman deadly sober!

ECLECTUS.

Now is the time to strike! We cannot afford delay.

MARCIA.

I have sent the child on an errand. He shall be occupied for the nonce.

ECLECTUS.

Then do what must be done.

MARCIA.

The child hath handed me the list of the condemned. And we are upon that list, alas! What a merry party we are to enjoy tonight.

ECLECTUS.

Then we must not let him leave the palace alive. I have sent the servants away and bribed the guards—they shall not interfere.

MARCIA.

When Commodus returns from his bath, I shall pour the poison into his cup, mix it with pungent wine, and bid him drink it whole.

ECLECTUS.

I shall wait without the chamber until the deed is done.

Commodus finishes his bath and sips the wine. He immediately becomes drowsy and stupefied. He falls asleep, believing it the result of his exertions. Soon after, the poison spreads and he vomits violently.

COMMODUS.

Vile cowards! Ye that dare to murder me—show thy faces at once, that I may behold the traitors! I shall not die so easily—I swear! I am Lucius Aelius Aurelius Commodus, son of Marcus Aurelius!

The conspirators enter abruptly, fearing he might purge the poison. They instruct a young wrestler named Narcissus to strangle the Emperor. He is bribed and rushes in, seizing Commodus by the throat and killing him. The body lies lifeless before them.

ECLECTUS.

Is he dead, Narcissus? We must know! Do not leave us in suspense!

NARCISSUS.

His body is still. He is dead! The deed is done!

MARCIA.

My beloved Commodus... thou liest dead, a man loathed by Senate and Guard alike. Thou shalt be forgotten by thy detractors—but not by the Roman people.

ECLECTUS.

The fiend is dead, and Rome is ours to command. Mourn not Commodus—but mourn the thousands who perished under his tyranny. A new day in history hath begun. Long live the city of Rome, and the Roman Empire! Imperium Romanum civitate vivant!

[Exeunt omnes. The curtain falls.]

END OF PLAY.

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