You were the princess of Rome. You'd watched so many tyrants rise and fall and rule the beautiful city of Rome you called home. The twins were no different. Impulsive, unpredictable, sadistic and brutal...

You didn't often make excuses for dictators and murderers but...the twins really were just children. Still boys at the end of the day. Insecure and needy and emotional...

They adored any praise and approval they could get...and when you gave it to them...it was like they'd been blessed by a goddess.

Geta and Caracalla had everything they wanted. Control, riches, power, lovers. But they lacked a maternal figure. And you'd made the mistake of giving them a few kind words.

Now you were invited to every party, gladiator game and court they held. They cling to you like puppies.

One day you're summoned to their throne room. Geta bows respectfully and kisses your hands adoringly while Caracalla sits in his throne, big green eyes soft and boyish.

"You've been so kind to us...but we request one more act of charity from you, my lady." Geta says sweetly. "Adopt us!" Caracalla chirps from his throne with a little giggle. "You have no children of your own and you're too old to have any now...adopt us! We want to be your sons!" He says hopping up. Geta gives him a frown at his blunt words but nods, in agreement.