the20thangel

[the20thangel]

The Younger, His Brother, and His Sister.

Summary: Caracalla has always been a sickly child as an adult. Causing his family's fierce protection. Knowing the love Caracalla has for his brother and good sister, Empress Arabella, Tragedy strikes, leaving them shaken.

(Note: Arabella is the same character as in The Emperor and His Lady series. I used Heleana from HOTD because it fits the scene of this fanfic, but Arabella still has brown hair and brown eyes.)

Word Count: 1.8k

Tags: angst with comfort.

This song inspired this story, and I recommend listening to it while reading.

In the might of Rome, she was ruled by two emperors, Emperor Geta and Emperor Caracalla. Twin rulers who ruled Rome under a mighty fist, many called them crazed tyrannical rulers that no one could tame, much less themselves. Of course, that was before the Empress Arabella graced the lives of the two Emperors. Empress Arabella was brought into the twin rulers' lives when they were mere princes. A promise between a loyal Senator and Emperor Septimus Severus: at first, Prince Geta and Lady Arabella were indifferent to each other, knowing their duty, but they had no care or love for each other. Both knew what was needed from them and would proudly fulfill the duty without love. They both thought it was okay and did not need the comforts of love. 

Caracalla, the younger twin, was always a sickly child, which caused him to be overprotected by both his mother and older twin brother. Both understood his fragility and, in their efforts to protect him, didn’t allow many people around him. So when the time came to succeed, their father, and mother left the plains of living. Geta took it upon himself to become his brother’s sole protector. There were times when this would cause complications between the brothers because Caracalla could not understand why there were certain days he couldn’t be with his brother during Gladiator fights, Senate meetings, or even enjoying the company of concubines. He wanted to experience the benefits of being the Emperor of Rome; He wanted companionship. That all changed once Arabella married Geta; while the couple tolerated each other and were only seen together in public, Arabella and Caracalla found solace in each other. 

Arabella knew from her husband what the Older twin's restrictions on his family were like, so she could sympathize with Caracalla about their frustrations of not having certain liberties due to Geta’s paranoia. She noticed when both brothers grew tense with their different views regarding the empire. Felling the tensions, Arabella took it upon herself to take Caracalla away. She would always ask him to accompany her in the gardens, where the two would spend hours lounging. She would read numerous great hero myths to Caracalla as the younger emperor leaned on his good sister’s shoulder. Enjoying the comforts, something he missed from his departed mother. At first, Geta was weary of his brother and wife spending so much time together, thinking something nefarious would transpire, but it all changed when it came to their birthday celebrations that year. 

Both emperors were happy in their celebrations, more Caracalla, because Geta eased the restrictions and even allowed the concubines to flock towards them. Arabella gifted Caracalla his most treasured friend, a monkey that he named Dundus. As Caracalla enjoyed the musing of the people in his feast and his new friend, he saw his brother stare at his wife in what seemed in shock before lifting her in joy and kissing her. It was later discovered the Empress was expecting a child, and everyone was overjoyed… all but Caracalla. He did not want to share his brother and sister; if they had a child, they would soon forget him and push him away into the shadows again. Who would comfort him when Geta was pressing down on his restrictions? Who would be his loyal protector and ensure he keeps his vow to their mother daily? Caracalla did not want the babe, but alas, he could not be angry when he saw both Geta and Arabella lean closer to each other. So much so that Geta dismissed the concubines, not wanting to risk anything or offend his wife. Even if Caracalla protested. Not when Arabella's stomach swelled, and tiny kicks could be felt whenever Caracalla and Geta pressed their cheeks to her belly. 

Indeed, it was not when the new prince was born, screaming his lungs out to announce to the world that he had arrived. Seeing both Geta and Arabella's joyful tears as they welcomed their son. He was a perfect copy of his father except for the eyes; those were his sweet mother’s eyes opened and stared at his uncle—a lovely, chubby, cheeked babe who stared at his uncle with pure love and admiration. Caracalla, too, then wept as he held his nephew. That is when Caracalla understood the pain and effort Geta took daily to protect him. So Caracalla vowed always to protect his nephew, little Gaius. Much to everyone’s relief, Geta’s headache proved correct. Little Gaius always follows his uncle in creating mischief in the palace, only stopping when Empress Arabella catches them and lightly scolds them both. This always ended with a kiss on their cheeks as she whispered to her boys. 

“What am I ever going to with you both, my troublemakers.” 

Yes, life was good for the Emperors and their family… until it wasn’t. 

It had been a cold winter, and many were sick from shivers and fevers. Unfortunately, not even the royal family was immune. No one knew who it was, but a servant who was ill went into Caracalla’s chambers long enough to infect the emperor, who succumbed to the sickness, leaving him tired and coughing in bed. As Geta again grew paranoid, he ordered healer after healer to heal his brother. Empress Arabella took the tool to accompany her brother, feeding, entertaining, and reading. Last but certainly not least, little Gaius, his messenger to the outside, came daily to report to his uncle about the news in the palace. 

Today was no different. As Geta set out for the Senate, his wife and son went to greet and awaken Caracalla. Arabella and Gaius walked in as the chambers opened, allowing her son to break free as the little boy ran to his uncle’s bed. Smiling, the young empress walked to the window, pushing open the curtains to allow the warm sun of Rome to shine through. 

Little Gaius climbed up the bed and gently shook his sleeping uncle. 

“Uncle Cara, it’s time to wake! The Sun is shining!” exclaimed the little one, growing confused when his uncle did not stir. 

Pushing his uncle with more force, Gaius tried again, “Uncle, it’s time to wake…” 

Again, there was no movement. Learning to touch his uncle’s cheek, Gaius furrowed his brows. His uncle was cold. Turning, he faced his mother, who was tidying Caracalla’s desk from last night's activities. 

“Mama… Uncle Cara… he’s too cold.” 

Arabella swung her head at her son’s words, her breath hitching as she turned, her eyes filled with worry. As she quickly walked to her brother’s side, she gently shook his shoulder and leaned to kiss his cheek. Riling back from the shock of the coldness, she breathed heavily. Turning to her son, she smiled weakly before calling for his nanny. 

“Take Gaius to the garden. Gaius, go with your nanny and pick some lovely flowers for Cara, please,” commanded the Empress. 

Waiting for her son to leave, she then ordered healers to be brought and her husband to be called back. She climbed into the bed and gathered Caracalla into her arms as she rocked the stiff and cold emperor. 

“Please, please wake sweet boy. Please, Cara, don’t do this… please.” 

As healers rushed to assess the emperor, Arabella grasped Caracalla’s hand, pressing a kiss, whispering, pleading with the gods for him to wake. Unfortunately, the healer, finding no pulse, remorsefully turned to the empress, shaking his head. Arabella gasped, tears filling her eyes as she tried to deny the news. 

“No…” she whispered, tears falling. 

As her breaths grew shallower, she turned to her brother, shaking her head. She rose, gathering him into her arms and pressing her cheek to his cold one as her heart tore in two. 

With a wail of anguish, she cried for her brother, “NO! Please, please… Cara, wake up! Please!” 

Geta, who came back rushing, froze at his wife's screams as he too sharply inhaled before sprinting into the room, His love holding his brother, crying in despair as he too shouted. 

“No, Brother! You are not gone! AWAKE! Cara… CARACALLA!” cried Geta, taking his brother’s face and shaking him. Arabella cried as she pleaded with Geta to be gentle. 

The whole palace froze, hearing the grief vibrating through the walls. 

Days later, the remainder of the royal family rode a carriage through the streets of Rome. Loyal senators convinced the royals to do a funeral procession around Rome so the empire could also express their grief to the fallen co-emperor. To show the people the humanity of the empire and bring them closer to it. Although Arabella initially pushed against it, hearing the Senator's plea, somberly agreed, as did Geta. Grasping her husband's hand with a deadly grip, the Emperor, Empress, and prince rode behind Caracalla’s body. As the Roman People watched their remaining Emperor and his family ride, they threw flower petals while shouting their support for the Empress and prince. In her grief, Arabella pressed her body to Geta, tears flowing down her cheeks as she raised her face toward the sky. Her veil covered her face as flower petals fell around her. She just wanted her brother. 

The day ended when Caracalla’s body was placed in the pavilion, lighting the pyre that burned the younger twin emperor as his loved ones stared in worry, disbelief, and grief—thinking about what the future entails, a world without Caracalla. 

With a sharp breath and cough, Caracalla awoke from his slumber. Turning, he noticed he was in his chambers, his desk a mess, and curtains close. Relieved from his nightmare, the emperor rose from his bed and ran through the halls towards his brother’s chambers. Bursting through his entrance shocked his brother and good sister. 

“Brother! Worry not, I am-” 

“Caracalla! What are you doing, brother? You are sick, and stepping through these cold tiles will only harm you.” interrupted Arabella as she scolded her brother. 

Caracalla grinned as he saw his beautiful sister rushing to her, and he kissed her cheek.

“Sister! Do not cry for me yet… I am alive.” he comforted her, remembering her grief. 

Geta and Arabella looked confused at the younger twin's words. Shaking his head, Geta responded by gathering his brother and leading him back to his chambers. 

“Of course you are alive, brother, but you will cause me more headaches if you do not lie back down and recover from your sickness, at risk of getting worse.” 

Lying his brother down, Geta smoothed the younger twin’s hair as Arabella placed the sheets on top of Caracalla. 

“Where is Gaius? He needs to see that his uncle is alive, and I wish to see my nephew, " Caracalla ordered. 

“He is still sleeping, Cara. I will bring him later. Rest now. I do not know what you dreamt, but you are very much alive. But remember, you are sick, and we need you to get better.” Arabella comforted as she kissed the emperor’s cheek. 

Smiling, Caracalla snuggled in the warmth as he watched his brother and good sister walk in arms out of his chambers, perplexed by the events. He was alive.

[the20thangel]

I couldn't wait for the poll to finish so here you go!

Emperor Geta edit: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTYAyR9Py/

Emperor Commodus edit: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTYAy2GKn/

I haven't been to TikTok for a WEEK! I was too busy writing my Emperor Geta Fanfiction. I opened it up today and I see Emperor Geta edits! 🤭 they know me so well… and to top it off edits of the man, the legend, who started my obsession with crazed emperors, Joaquin Phoenix’s Commodus! That man has a hold on me. Lol 😆

Edit: I want to share the videos! You need to see what I mean lol

[the20thangel]

I haven't been to TikTok for a WEEK! I was too busy writing my Emperor Geta Fanfiction. I opened it up today and I see Emperor Geta edits! 🤭 they know me so well… and to top it off edits of the man, the legend, who started my obsession with crazed emperors, Joaquin Phoenix’s Commodus! That man has a hold on me. Lol 😆

Edit: I want to share the videos! You need to see what I mean lol

[the20thangel]

To all of you out there writing long ass...carefully cultivated...painstakingly characterized...thoughtfully written fanfictions...I see you and I appreciate the everliving shit outta you.

[the20thangel]

The Emperor and His Lady Chapter 8 (Finale)

Summary: Arabella and Geta flee from the Chaos that Macrinus and Caracalla placed in Rome. Lucius fights for the dream that is Rome, and new beginnings blossom.

Word Count: 4K

Tags: violence, angst, and comfort.

Masterlist

Taglist: @barcelonaloverf1life @justnobodynothingmore

Arabella placed herself before Geta, “Uncle, please, We seek refuge…” 

Arabella’s uncle, the eldest of the two brothers, never had the chance to marry. So, he used his brother’s children to gain control of the family. Arabella was their last chance for glory; he would not give up easily. 

“My dear, you are confused… come, there will be an emperor at the end of the day, Caracalla or Lucius… they will need an empress, and you…” 

Growling, Geta pressed Arabella to his body, “Choose your next words carefully; I can still find ways to get rid of you!” 

Arabella watched as her uncle staggered back before forming a weak smirk: “With what army? I can yell and have Caracalla arrest you or wait until Lucius takes back Rome, and you will still lose Geta. Come, Arabella. You have done wonderful with him, but it’s time to move on.”

“No….” she protested, walking away from Geta. She glared at her uncle. 

“No… what nonsense are you speaking, stupid girl? I said, come.” commanded her uncle. 

Tired of all the stress from the day and tired of being used for men’s gain, Arabella’s face darkened, “I said NO! I am done being used as a pawn for your and my father’s gain. I have always done everything you commanded of me since I was 11 years old. You pushed so much to become Geta’s empress; what did you expect that I do not love him? I will not leave him. I love him and our child, who is growing in me. Caracalla nor Lucius would let me keep my babe, and I would rather die than lose another son. So go ahead, try to force me away from Geta, but you will only have a corpse to use or a girl so damaged she will be useless to you. I will make sure I cannot conceive another child if you force me. I want to live peacefully with the man I love and my child. So what will it be? Uncle, choose now, and I will make my choice.” 

Geta and her uncle froze their blood cold at Arabella’s words. Geta’s face hardened as he placed his hands on his lover’s stomach, glaring at her uncle. In contrast, Arabella’s uncle could only stare. All for naught, he thought, exhaling as he backed down. 

Arabella and Geta watched as her uncle's shoulders dropped. Shaking his head, he made eye contact with Geta as he spoke, “You would have made a wonderful, kind but fearsome empress; such a shame you never were made one.” 

Geta gulped, feeling the guilt returning to him; her uncle was correct. His Arabella would have been the best empress, but he was too selfish to make her one. After a beat, Arabella and Geta could finally breathe as Arabella's uncle led the two lovers to a Villa that belonged to her family—one that was away from the main areas of Rome but still close. 

Once they had arrived, Arabella’s uncle said they should relax while he returned to the palace. An emergency Senate meeting was to occur; he would return with news after the meeting. Leaving the two on their own, Arabella sighed, rubbing her belly as she calmed herself, hoping all the stress would not take a toll on her or her child. Turning, she watched Geta sit by the hearth, staring at the fire that the servants quickly lighted. 

“Geta… my love? What bothers you?” she whispered as she knelt before him, taking his hands into hers. 

Geta took a moment before turning to stare at her, “Your uncle is right. You have been a wonderful empress… I… I was too paranoid to allow it… I was too jealous; I wanted you for myself…Would it have changed what is happening now if you were my empress?”

Shaking her head, Arabella sat on his lap, cradling his face as she spoke, “It is not good to dwell on the past or what could have been. Hush, my love, take comfort that we are alive, the three of us, and take comfort that I will never… never leave you.”  

Leaning down, Arabella kissed Geta, taking his arms and wrapping them around her. Geta deepened the kiss, pressing her body to his as they comforted each other from the hectic and terrifying night. The two stayed awake for another hour to see if any news came, but once they heard nothing, they decided to retire for the night. 

The following day, Arabella’s uncle returned with a haunted look. As she led her uncle to the dining area, she watched in suspense as he placed his head in his hands. 

“Uncle… what has happened?” she asked, watching Geta enter the room and sit beside her. 

“Caracalla… he… he placed two new senators to his consul… his monkey Dundus and the second Macrinus. He gave the throne to Macrinus.” Her uncle explained, closing his eyes in disbelief. 

Arabella and Geta inhaled sharply at the news, realizing that Macrinus used both Geta and Caracalla to get to the throne. 

As her uncle raised his sight, he gave her a look, telling her there was more. Arabella gave a worried brow as she silently urged her uncle to speak. 

“Your father…he has been sentenced to be killed along with the senators who conspired to usurp Geta and Caracalla. They will be killed along with former empress Lucilla,” he spoke, massaging his brow. 

Arabella softly gasped, “But he wasn’t part of the coup… why would he be sentenced.” 

Her uncle smiled contemptuously, “He denied your hand in marriage to Caracalla. He also denied knowing your whereabouts. Macrinus convinced Caracalla to kill him, saying that your father was deliberately offending him. I’m sorry, my girl, I could not save him.”  

Arabella sniffed, having lost both fathers in her life in less than 24 hours. As Geta placed a soothing hand on hers, she proudly spoke, “My father was a servant to Rome, and he will die knowing what he did was for the betterment of Rome.” 

Arabella’s uncle agreed before stating he needed to leave for the Colosseum, promising the pair that he would return after the events. 

At the Colosseum, the crowd was anxious, not knowing who or what the cause of the games was for that day. The Senators shifted as many of their own were at stake, including the former empress. They knew if they killed the empress, Rome would eat them alive; they could only hope the gods were merciful. 

As Caracalla walked down, he noticed his people cringe before him. They looked at him in disgust or fear, and he wanted to weep. He always had his brother to protect him from the wolves. Now his brother was gone… and he was alone, with no one to defend him, and Caracalla thought, “I made a mistake…”. Macrinus, seeing the hesitation, gently pushed the emperor into his throne. 

The Gates opened, and the people gasped in outrage as they saw a cart of senators walking out with their beloved Empress Lucilla standing at the top. 

“Lucilla! Gods have mercy on you, empress!” 

“Empress Lucilla, she is innocent!” 

“Release her! Release the empress!” 

Caracalla whimpered, hearing his people shouting in outrage. It wasn’t supposed to be this way. 

Marcella looked at the royal box, smirking as Macrinus, a fool, looked like he already had won; little did he know. As the plan started, Lucius came out fighting the guards one by one, making sure to stall to give the impression he was desperate to save his mother; as he reached the top, Lucius again asked Marcella if she wanted him to save her. 

“No, my emperor, I need to die. We need the people of Rome to fight against Macrinus and Cara-” Marcella gasped as an arrow shot through her chest. 

“NO!” shouted Lucius, being caught unprepared as he turned to glare at Macrinus.

As Macrinus lowered his bow, he relished at the chaos ensuing, the people screaming and rioting as the Senators ran away. Leaning towards the young emperor, Macrinus threw his arms around Caracalla’s shoulders. 

“Well done, my imperator. You have won, but unfortunately, it's time you step down. Not to worry, Rome will be in good hands, my hands.” He sneered as he took a pin out and stabbed Caracalla. 

As Caracalla shouted in pain, he felt blood gushing out his ear as his vision began to blur. Feeling coldness roam over him, Caracalla thought of his brother, his protector. He regretted killing his brother… for Geta truly did love him. Then his mind to Arabella, sweet and beautiful Arabella. Caracalla knew his love for her was not romantic but of a brother and sister. His problem with her was that he was jealous that Geta and she were in love, leaving him behind. He had no one like they had each other. He felt regret for tormenting her all those years. He wished he could have been kinder. Finally, as Caracalla left the realm of the living, a riverboat greeted him. Terrified, Caracalla looked around when he heard someone calling for him. Seeing at a distance, he saw a woman he recognized as his mother. 

“Caracalla, come, my sweet boy!” shouted his mother. 

Grinning, the young emperor walked up to the boat and waved to his mother as he crossed the river Styx. 

Macrnius smirked at the dead emperor, staring at the floor. He saw Luicus’ glare and decided he needed to leave. Lucius, seeing Macrinus running, began to pursue the man. He would not leave Rome alive. 

At the outskirts of Rome came Lucilla, leading a horde of Roman soldiers waiting to meet their enemy. At a distance, she saw two horses coming towards them and another group of soldiers. Gasping, she saw Lucius jump from his horse, tackling Macrinus to the ground, and the two men began sparing. As Lucius tripped into the river, he held his breath and reached for his dagger. Macrinus blindly stabbed him, trying to pierce through the armor. Seeing an opening, Lucius shouted as he rushed up from the water, slicing Macrinus through his stomach. Breathing heavily, he watched as Macrinus slowly sank to the river's bottom. 

As Lucilla and Lucius took back the throne and ensured the people of Rome were calm and safe, they began to assess the damage in the Palace. Lucius, noticing his mother searching through Emperor Geta’s chambers, the gardens, and, lastly, another chamber, finally asked her what or whom she was looking for. 

“A maiden named Arabella… was my companion for many years. I grew to love her as a daughter. She was with Geta… before he was killed. Senator!” Lucilla ended shouting, seeing Arabella’s uncle walking. 

“My empress, Imperator, what can I do for you.” bowed the Senator. 

Lucius squirmed, not being used to being greeted as a royal for many years, and answered for his mother. 

“A girl, Arabella. My mother is wondering if you have seen her. " Lucius pondered, growing nervous, seeing the Senator's remorseful look. 

“I know not what happened to my dear niece. She was with Geta when Caracalla killed his brother. I fear... I fear the rumors are true; my niece threw herself to her death rather than becoming Caracalla’s empress. I am so sorry, Empress Lucilla. I knew how much she meant to you.” Arabella’s uncle lied, bowing as Lucilla began weeping for her little girl. 

“Thank you, senator. I am sorry for your loss,” consoled Lucius, who found it strange that the Senator was not distraught like his mother. 

Six months passed, and Rome began healing from the injustices she suffered. The people were healing and beginning to thrive. Lucilla, although still grieving the loss of her daughter and husband, provided excellent support for Lucius in ruling Rome. To rejoice, The Senate decided to throw gladiator games to celebrate the six-month mark of Emperor Lucius’s reign. Although Lucius was against it at first, he was later convinced by his mother that it would be a good idea. 

As the two walked to see the gladiators, Lucilla noticed Arabella’s uncle bringing supplies to a specific group of men. Knowing that he was never a Senator who paid interest in the gladiators or had any military knowledge, she walked towards him curious. As she walked closer, she heard the conversation that made her freeze. 

“How is my lady, Senator? I bet her belly must be huge by now! And Gano? How is he fairing?” 

“My niece is thriving through her pregnancy while her husband panics about everything; it is quite charming to see, " the senator laughed. His laugh, however, was cut short once he noticed Lucilla. 

“Senator, six months ago, you told me Arabella killed herself; I am now shocked to hear not only is she married, she is expecting her first child,” questioned Lucilla, growing upset with her surrogate daughter’s uncle. 

As the Senator gulped, he nervously tried to deny it, but Lucilla would not be deceived again. 

“You will bring her to me; I wish to see my girl healthy with my own eyes,” Lucilla commanded, walking away from the Senator. 

At a nearby Villa,  Arabella walked towards her husband carrying a refreshing drink. Rising from his papers, Geta smiled as he greeted his wife. 

“Wife, I am sure I heard the healer tell you not to be on your feet so often," he asked his wife, kissing her lips quickly and taking the drink from her hands. 

“Walking to my husband does not count, Geta. My back starts aching after laying down so much.” Lightly complained Arabella, rubbing her round belly as she pouted. 

Geta grinned, placing his hand on Arabella’s, his smile growing as he felt his son kick against his hand. 

As the two kissed, a servant girl told them the lady’s uncle had urgent business to speak with them. The two separated, sharing a confused look as they greeted the visitor. 

“Uncle, you were just here? Has something happened?” questioned Arabella, allowing Geta to lead her to sit down. 

As her uncle sat beside her, he grabbed her hands, “Ara…Empress Lucilla knows you are alive. She has commanded me to take you to the palace. I’m sorry, niece, but I can’t go against the empress.” 

Arabella's brows rose in shock. She had hoped that Lucilla never found out about her whereabouts. Looking towards Geta, she saw her husband furrow his brows in confusion.

“Why does Empress Lucilla want to see Arabella? Does she want to marry her to Lucius,” growled Geta, jealousy blooming in his chest. 

Arabella held a hand to her husband’s chest, hoping to calm him from his anger.

Arabella’s uncle shook his head, “No, Emperor Lucius is still adamant about not taking a wife. The empress wishes to see you healthy with her own eyes. She has missed you so much, dear girl. Please pay a quick visit to ease her and then return to your life here.” 

Nodding, Arabella agreed to visit her lady; unfortunately, Geta was still paranoid about the reason for the visit.

Geta grunted, grabbing Arabella’s hand as he commanded, “I will go with you.” 

“Geta, you are still wanted in Rome. I am not risking my husband getting arrested by the emperor; stay here, " Arabella countered, annoyed that her husband was trying to be difficult. 

“I wasn’t asking Ara… I’m going. I don’t believe the emperor just wants you to visit.” argued Get, narrowing his eyes. 

Like times before, the Lady and her Husband continue their battle through their eyes, each equally stubborn trying to win against each other. 

Arabella’s uncle chuckled, having gotten used to the young lovers' antics. “Niece, you know him better than anyone. You know he will not stay behind. He will go as he is known outside, Gano, and we will dye his hair dark brown. Hopefully, the emperor doesn’t remember how much Geta looked like, and we can quickly visit and  let it be done.” 

Arabella sighed in defeat, sending a quick glare as her husband smirked, feeling like he had won the argument. 

As the three walked through the white floors of the palace, Arabella and Geta could not help but feel nervous about their visit to the emperor and his mother. Geta looked around and saw how much his former home had changed in under six months. Nothing of him and his brother were shown or left in the palace. Sighing, he walked behind his wife somberly, missing his twin. As husband and wife entered the feast chamber, Lucilla gasped in delight, seeing her girl not only healthy but practically glowing from her pregnancy. Standing from her spot next to Lucius, Empress Lucilla greeted her daughter. 

“Arabella! Oh, my sweet girl, I am so happy you are well and with a child. You are glowing!” exclaimed the empress mother, gathering Arabella into her arms. 

As Geta stood back with his hood covering his face, he stood nervously, feeling paranoid at being close to Lucilla and Lucius. Emperor Lucius smiled at his mother, who was reuniting with his surrogate sister. Turning to face his sister’s husband, he could not help but narrow his eyes and recognize the man. 

“Empress, it's good to see you again.” greeted Arabella, bowing only to be raised by Lucilla, who waved her off.

“None of that bowing, especially with you so heavily pregnant. How far along are you?”  questioned Lucilla as she toyed with Arabella’s curls. 

Smiling, Arabella rubbed her ever-growing bump, “In a week, I will be seven months. I’m counting the days until my child rests in my arms instead of kicking every second of the day, more if he feels his father's hands on my stomach.” 

Laughing, Lucilla took a turn to rub the young lady’s bump, “Lucius was the same way; nothing could soothe him until a lullaby was sung.” 

As Lucilla turned her sight behind Arabella, she noticed the man who she assumed was Arabella’s husband. 

“Sweet girl, why don’t you introduce me to your husband? I assume he is the father, yes?” Lucilla requested, growing confused as the young man twitched and lowered his head to hide his face. 

Arabella, growing nervous, gulped as she stared at her husband. Opening her mouth, she felt tongue-tied, “Yes, this is my husband-” 

“Hello, Geta… I’m surprised you would be willing to step back into the palace,” interrupted Lucius, who was walking towards his mother and sister while glaring at the young man. 

Geta raised his eyes, glaring back at Lucius; it allowed his hood to fall off. Lucilla gasped as her face paled like she saw a ghost, turning to Arabella, who furrowed her brows with worry. Arabella placed herself between the emperor and her husband, not wanting a fight to ensue. Geta took the opportunity to grasp his wife’s waist and pull her body to press against his. 

“Hano… ah, I forgot it’s Emperor Lucius, now is it?” taunted Geta, smirking when Lucius growled in annoyance. 

“Geta, enough,” commanded Arabella, shaking her head at her husband’s antics. 

Lucilla and Lucius were both surprised to see how easily Geta backed down. Lucilla, wanting an answer, turned to Arabella.

“How… everyone in the Senate said they saw his head… Caracalla and Macrinus showed it off?” questioned Lucilla. 

Arabella sighed as she began her tale of how they evaded being killed by Caracalla and their current life situations. After the lady’s tale, Lucius shook his head in disbelief before turning to the former emperor. 

“You know, in any other situation, I would have had the guards arrest you against the crimes you did on my mother and stepfather, but I grew to care for Arabella because of my mother. I know how much my sister has sacrificed for Rome and my mother. Consider yourself lucky, Geta, that I am a forgiving man. I will pardon you injustices…” started Lucius. 

“Thank you, Imperator,” praised Arabella, feeling grateful. 

“I have two conditions for his pardon…” continued Lucius, watching as Geta and Arabella nodded. 

“One, Arabella, do not call me imperator. We are siblings; call me brother. Second, Geta is banned from ever joining the Senate. I will be gracious and not place the ban on any nieces or nephews, but you can never step foot in the Senate. Do I make myself clear?” said Lucius. 

Arabella and Geta nodded, feeling grateful; while Geta did not mind being banned from the Senate, it was never his passion. As the couple left, Lucilla asked Arabella to visit often and to keep her updated on her pregnancy, expressing her desire to be there during Arabella's birthing.  Agreeing, the couple left for their Villa peacefully, excited and nervous for the future. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Screaming could be heard from a room as Arabella pushed with all her might. Collapsing on her bed, Arabella tiredly exhaled as she tried to catch her breath, preparing for another contraction to hit. Lucilla, holding her daughter’s hand, soothed the tired mother. 

“There, my sweet girl, you are doing so well. Just a few more, Ara… you baby wants to greet you,” she consoled the young woman. 

Nodding, Arabella took a deep breath as she pushed all her might, feeling sweat fall down her forehead. Taking another breath and pushing again, wishing her child could just leave her body. 

Outside the room, in the living area, paced Geta, growing nervous with each scream coming from his wife. Lucius watched in amusement as he watched a man feared by Rome be reduced to a nervous wreck. Turning to the floor, he ruffled a tuff of ginger-colored hair. Gaius, who just turned four, raised his head from his toy soldier to playfully glare at his uncle. Lucius chuckled. His nephew looked so much like his father, but that glare was all his mother.  A smaller wail joined the air as another yell broke out, making Lucius rise and Geta freeze. 

Lucilla came out with a bright smile: "A beautiful little girl with the same face as her mother and her father’s fiery locks.” 

As the men sighed, their relief was short-lived. They heard Arabella let out another yell, with the midwife exclaiming that another babe was on their way. Lucilla turned and quickly returned inside to help the young mother. Fifteen painfully long minutes passed before a little boy let his arrival know with a loud shout. 

“He has a pair of lungs,” commented Lucius, watching as Geta held his daughter, watching her as if she were the world's most precious jewel. 

Arabella smiled as she caressed her youngest son. They were perfect. While her daughter followed suit like her older brother in having fiery locks. Her youngest held brown curls much like her own. Gaius was in his grandmother’s arms, looking at his young siblings. Scrunching his nose, he sniffed and looked at his mother: " They are too pink.” 

Laughing, Lucilla kissed the young boy, “They just came out of your mother. You were as pink as them when you were born, my love. They will soon change after a few days.” 

Lucius grinned as he kissed Arabella’s forehead, “How are you, sister?” 

“Tired, but I would do it all over again for them….that does not mean you can touch me,  Geta. You will wait another four years before you touch me.” Commented Arabella, playfully glaring at her husband once she saw his mischievous smile. 

“Do they have names?” questioned Lucilla. 

Arabella nodded, “Yes, our daughter will be named Carmella Julia, and our son… he is Marcus Maximus…” 

As the twins' names were spoken, both children opened their eyes to stare at their parents. Geta’s throat dried up as tears welled in his eyes. His daughter had the brightest blue eyes, just like Caracalla. Kissing his daughter, Geta nuzzled her tuff of ginger hair. 

Lucius and Lucilla smiled tearfully as they stared at the youngest of the three. Soon, the Emperor and Empress left the family of five. As the three youngest slept soundly, Geta scooped up his wife and kissed her neck. Arabella giggled at being tickled, returning a kiss. 

“Thank you, my love,” Geta whispered as he nuzzled his face to his wife’s neck. 

“For what, my love,” pondered Arabella, caressing her husband’s cheek. 

“For loving me, for fighting for me… for never giving up on me, on us… I truly don’t deserve you,” confessed Geta. 

Arabella smiled, cradling her husband's face; she kissed him before whispering on his lips, “I was always meant to be yours, your lady. No matter where or whichever life, I will always come to you, My Geta.”

[the20thangel]

The Emperor and His Lady Chapter 7

Summary: Betrayals are ramped. Lucilla and Marcella unite to save a lady dear to them. Leaving Arabella to give Emperor Geta one last Ultimatum. Which will he choose?

Word Count: 2.5k

Tags: angst and violence

Taglist: @barcelonaloverf1life @justnobodynothingmore

Masterlist

After an hour, Arabella and Geta saw Caracalla finally calming down and his eyes starting to droop with sleep. Both helped up the younger twin and led him to his chambers. Geta took the liberty of placing his younger brother on his bed and covering him up. In a moment of vulnerability soothed the ginger’s hair. 

Sighing, he leaned away from his brother, turning back to Arabella, who stood at the front of the chamber door. Walking towards her, Geta grasped her waist, pressing a chaste kiss on her lips. 

“The sickness from his loins has started to travel to his head… every day, he seems to worsen, Arabella; I don’t know what to do with him,” Geta whispered, turning to watch as Caracalla snuggled further into his sheets. 

Arabella stared at the younger, feeling pity for his deteriorating health. Turning back to her emperor, she rubbed his arms and kissed his exposed chest. 

“Just keep doing what you have been, my love, showing him compassion and patience. It's all we can do to keep him comfortable,” she replied, sincerely smiling. 

The two lovers left to return to their chambers, not noticing someone in the background waiting to implant more of his poison. 

Macrinus crept into Caracalla’s chamber, watching the younger tossed and turned before noticing the older man. 

“Ah, my imperator, apologies for disturbing you after a hectic night; I just wanted to check on you… especially after I heard your brother struck you.” 

Caracalla sat up, notching his head to the side. “Yes, but Arabella was lovely to me and defended me from my brother… I miss the times when she and I were close.” 

Macrinus nodded, sitting on the bed, pondering before turning his attention back, “You two were close before, yes? What Changed? Once she started paying more attention to Geta? Poor girl, spending many years yearning for someone who always kept her at a distance… Where here you were always willing to be hers… Did you not notice that once you seemed more interested in Arabella, Geta came and swooped her from your grasp?” 

Caracalla nodded with wide eyes; what Macrinus had spoken about was true. He and Arabella were closer during their younger years… and Geta constantly humiliated her. And yes, after he showed interest that he wanted Arabella, his brother suddenly reciprocated the lady’s love. Why? Did Geta do it on purpose?

Macrinus smirked, seeing his words taking root, “I bet if Arabella had experienced your love, she would all but forgotten about Geta. Everything has always been for Geta, but what about you… what about Caracalla? Think about it, my emperor… I shall leave you to think… pleasant dreams.” 

Macrinus bowed before leaving Caracalla alone in the dark, his mind racing.

As the next day came upon the room, the mood seemed somber. Knowing what today entailed, Arabella did not have the energy to rise from her slumber. As she awoke, she quivered before nestling herself further into Geta’s arms. Wishing the embrace from her lover would take away the pain from her heart.  Unfortunately, it did not; as Geta rose, he knew her predicament and decided to leave her in the palace. The healer stressed Arabella needed to remain calm for their child, and he did not want to be the cause of any distress. 

As the emperor prepared for the day’s games, dressing in colors inspired by Apollo, he shook his hands to steady his nerves. Turning back to his bed, he saw his love lying on his cushions. She looked like a goddess. Walking to her, Geta raised her head, making the young lady stare at each other's eyes. 

“I’m sorry, my love, but it has to be done.” he apologized, hoping she understood why he had to execute her surrogate parents. 

Arabella closed her eyes, allowing a lone tear to fall as she nodded, knowing even if she protested , she knew that nothing could be done to change his mind. 

Geta smiled and deeply kissed his lady, “I love you, my sweet girl.” 

Eyes filled with tears, Arabella returned a smile to Geta, “and I adore you, My Geta.”

Her words encouraged him as Geta pressed one more kiss and left for the Colosseum. 

Arabella shakily exhaled, rising from the bed to change into a gown. As she slowly combed her hair, Marcella entered the room, giving her a small smile as the older woman prepared her. 

“How are you, sweet one?” asked the handmaiden. 

Arabella gulped, trying not to cry, “In torment, the man I love is signing the death warrant on the two people who cared for me all these years. I should hate him… but I can’t … I adore him, Marcella; it is why I kept my distance all those years; I have always loved him.” 

Marcella paused her work, staring at her lady with sympathy; she embraced the young woman’s shoulders. “Oh, my sweet girl, I wish I could help you save them…alas, General Acacius was kept under the Colosseum; he is to fight a group of guards and then a gladiator named Hano.” 

Arabella's eyes shook as Marcella’s voice blended into the background as she realized Lucius was not aiming for her or the emperors; he wanted Acacius. Lucius was going to kill the man she considered more her father than her actual father. 

Turning, Arabella questioned, “and Lucilla, what awaits for her?” 

Marcella shook her head, “I do not know yet. All I know is that she must watch Acacius’s death beside the emperors.”  

Nodding, not knowing what else to do, Arabella allowed her handmaiden to finish her work. All day, Arabella worried for her lady and for her emperor. Her mind pounded as the two sides of her heart fought. Sighing and rubbing her head, Arabella jumped when she heard a commotion outside the palace. Walking towards the window, she watched in shock as the people of Rome began to riot. 

Walking away, she peeked into the hallways, seeing nervous servants and concubines run around. Noticing Marcella running towards her, she reentered her chambers. 

“What has happened?” She whispered, growing more on edge with the people’s shouts. 

“The people are rioting; Hano did not want to execute Acacius, so Geta had him shot to death. Hano then gave a speech about how Rome treats its heroes. The emperors should be on their way back. Arabella, you need to flee, it’s not safe.” 

Arabella shook her head, “No, I need to stay here… I need-” 

“No, I understand you love him, but please, for your survival, you must leave him behind, sweet one. Do not throw your life for him.” Marcella countered. 

Arabella pushed herself away. “No… I can’t… I’m…Marcella. I’m with a child, Geta’s child. I cannot abandon the father of my child,” she whispered, tears falling down my cheeks. 

Marcella eyes softened, “Oh my girl, what trouble have you placed yourself in… If Lucilla were free, she could have helped you.” 

“But she is not Marcella. Please save yourself…thank you for helping me all these years.” Arabella thanked Marcella, kissing the older woman’s hands. 

Marcella shook her head, “Please, Ara, come with me…” she pleaded. 

Arabella denied her again, “No… I must stay… Now go, quick…” 

Sniffing, the handmaiden kissed her lady’s cheek as she ran, leaving through the servant's path to flee the palace. Seeing the crowd angry, trying to break from the guards. 

Marcella thought of a way to save her lady. Lady Lucilla would be given up as a sacrifice, a last stitch to make the people heel. Rome needs Lucilla to lead them on the right path. Lucilla has always protected Arabella. Making her choice, the servant ran to the Dungeons, hiding as she saw Macrinus laughing as he walked away from Lucilla. 

“I will make Rome my own… and you will be nothing by forgotten history.”  Macrinus taunted as he left to continue his plan to take hold of the power he thought rightfully belonged to him. 

Marcella sneered at the thought; walking towards the chamber, she broke the lock and opened the door. 

Lucilla, hearing her chamber open, turned to see a servant. 

Bowing, Marcella said, “My lady, I am Lady Arabella’s handmaiden. I have come to release you from your prison. 

Lucilla smiled and thanked the woman, “My Arabella… is she safe?” 

Marcella shook her head, causing Lucilla to panic, “Caracalla and Macrinus are plotting against Geta; she will be in danger… We need to help her.” 

Lucilla bit her lip, “There is an army outside of Rome, waiting for my husband’s command… I will go in his place to take Rome back from Caracalla and Macrinus. I know Arabella will survive; she is smart, but I cannot leave right now. They will be coming for me tomorrow.” 

Marcella nodded, “I know, my lady, that’s why I am here… I am taking your place. Go now. Assemble your army. I will die in your place… just please promise me you will do everything to keep Arabella safe.” 

As Lucilla and Marcella switched clothes and places, Lucilla confirmed Marcella’s wish, “I will always protect her… Thank you, Marcella, for keeping my sweet girl safe all these years. Thank you for helping Rome.” 

Marcella, through tears, smiled, bowing to the former empress, “I will do it again and again, for Arabella… for Rome… and her child.” 

Lucilla gasped but nodded, understanding the severity of the situation. She rushed out to meet Lucius before leaving for the army, who anxiously awaited their command.

Chaos remained in the palace as servants, nobles, and guards ran throughout. As Arabella inhaled and exhaled to relax her breathing, Geta rushed into the chambers. 

Arabella turned and ran towards his arms, “Geta! Oh, I’m so relieved. I was afraid something might have happened… where’s Caracalla?” 

Geta wrapped his lady into his arms, kissing her forehead. “He has gotten worse, my love; I had to walk away, or I would have done something I would regret. I understand he is scared, but he is becoming too erratic…” 

Arabella furrowed her brows in confusion about Caracalla’s behavior; something must be causing it.

“Who is he with my love? Surely he's not on his own right now?” she questioned.

Geta shrugged, “I think Macrinus was close by… why?” 

Arabella contemplated before she froze. Caracalla had been closer to Macrinus, and ever since that man, Caracalla’s behaviors had worsened. Could he be the cause? She thought. 

“Geta… Macrinus, what if he is-” Arabella was interrupted as an Actor burst into the chambers. 

Geta, gathering Arabella into his arms, sneered at the actor dressed similarly to him. 

“What are you doing in here? You are not allowed to enter my chambers-” 

“I apologize, Augustus, but I had to warn you… that man…Macrinus is poisoning your brother towards you… I heard him speak words conspiring against you… you must flee!” warned the actor.

Geta shook his head, not wanting to believe, “No, My brother and I have always been one. He would never-” 

Arabella pulled Geta’s arm, interrupting her lover defending his brother. 

“Geta, I have a bad feeling; we need to flee, please my love…” 

Geta pushed her away, shaking his head, “No, Caracalla is a loyal brother. He would never…” 

Everyone in the room froze as Caracalla’s and Macrinus's voices came closer. 

Arabella pulled Geta into a false wall, pressing him into the wall as she flushed her body to him. 

Caracalla entered the room, searching for his brother and lady. Seeing only his brother, he raised his dagger. “Brother, you lied. You said we would always be one… that our empire would be ours, that the people would be ours, but you lied to me, brother.” 

“Geta”, shook his head, “I have never lied, Caracalla… I have never once conspired against you, brother. Please...” 

Caracalla growled, stalking towards “Geta” with Macrinus close behind, “Yes, you lie! You replaced me with Arabella! You do not even love her! You always were cruel to her, keeping her at a distance. I love her, and you selfishly took her from me! You always take from me, even in the womb!” 

Arabella closed her eyes, pressing further into Geta’s body as her lover shook, hearing such hate come from his brother’s mouth. 

“No, Caracalla, it's not tru-” gasped “Geta” as Macrinus led Caracalla to slice his neck, blood gushing as both men hackled off “Geta’s” head from his body. 

“He can no longer hurt you, my emperor,” Macrinus watched in fascination. 

Caracalla numbly looked at his brother's head, “What about Arabella?”

Macrinus hummed, searching the room for any sign of the girl. 

“Worry not; I shall find her and bring her to you. She will be your empress. She will see your kindness and mercy by making you her empress. She will not deny you,” soothed Macrinus, raising the younger twin. 

“Now, let us call a Senate meeting; we need to make several changes…” commanded Macrinus, leading Caracalla out before turning and taking “Geta’s” head. 

Arabella slowly peeked outside the false wall, seeing both men gone, and sighed in relief before stepping out. Geta followed, numb from what had taken place. Gagging, Arabella turned away from the body as she stared at her Geta, who had tears flowing down his cheeks. 

“Oh, my love… I’m so sorry…” She whispered, walking towards him. 

Geta shook his head in disbelief. “I have always defended him… how can he despise me so easily?” 

Arabella shook her head, grabbing his arm, “I do not know, but we can’t stay here; he thinks you are dead and wants to make me his empress… we need to leave.” 

“No, I need to get my brother back, bring him back to reason… we are twins, Arabella… we can’t…” 

“Geta, you said so yourself; Caracalla’s sickness is harming his mind… that is not your brother anymore… please Geta, come with me.” 

Geta stepped back, watching as Arabella's face fell, tears falling down her cheeks. “I need to Ara…” 

Arabella felt 15 again, pleading for her prince, no, her emperor, to choose her. She felt again being pushed away. Taking a deep breath, she decided it would end here. 

Emperor and Lady, at an arm's distance from each other, stared at one another. Arabella gave her lover her final plea, her final ultimatum: “Geta… My Geta, I am going to ask you one last time. I cannot do this again. Please, my love, choose me. Choose our child. Choose our love. Come with me… I will not ask again… I will leave. I will protect my- our baby with or without you.” 

Geta closed his eyes. His emotions mixed, and he felt powerless, but as he opened his eyes and stared at his lady, he made his choice… he chose her… he chose their child. 

Geta nodded as Arabella sobbed in relief, walking into his arms. Arabella kissed her love, pouring all her passion into the kiss. After a minute, she separated her lips from him. 

“Quickly, take some gold and treasures and follow me. We will use the servant's pathways.” 

The two quickly filled a bag with valuables and left the chambers, trading their fine clothes for servants' clothes and sneaking out of the palace. As they crossed the pavilion, One Senator stepped into their path. Halting, Arabella whispered in shock and worry. 

“Uncle…” 

Arabella's Uncle stared in shock… his niece was with the supposed dead Emperor Geta. 

“Niece… Emperor Geta… where will you run?”

[the20thangel]

I don’t like leaving comments cause internet anonymity. But your latest story with arabella and geta has me on edge. I hope you continue writing it. ITS SO GOOD, I’m literally crying my eyes out! I live for the angst.

Thank you! I will definitely finish; I feel a little bad because I had my HOTD fanfic waiting, but my hyper-fixation went full throttle on Gladiator 2. Get ready for more angst.

PS: to my HOTD Fans: I have not abandoned Benjicot and Aemma. Once I am done with Arabella and Geta, get ready for more angst for HOTD

PSS: I will probably also write more Gladiator 2 fanfiction. Caracalla needs love, too!

[the20thangel]

The Emperor and His Lady Chapter 6

Summary: Arabella and Geta's reconnection brings more changes, leading to tensions from the Gladiator games and impending betrayal. Both Geta and Arabella are unsure of their future.

Word Count: 2.8k

Tags: Violence, angst, spoliers

Masterlist

taglist: @barcelonaloverf1life @justnobodynothingmore

If the court thought Emperor Geta would become softer after reconnecting with Arabella, they were wrong and right. While there were times when Geta acted kinder, those times were shown as more patience for the servants and towards his brother. As well as pushing away his previous concubines, for Geta had no use for them anymore, not when he had his lady ready to please him whenever he wanted her. Even with his softness, Geta was still ruthless in the Senate. Just yesterday, Geta threw a vase to a Senator who suggested his granddaughter as a potential empress—shouting that he would not be told when he and his brother should marry. 

At the end of the day, Geta always returns to his chambers, where Arabella greets him with a kind smile that reaches her eyes and shows the dimples on her cheeks. Allowing himself to shed the burden of being an emperor, Geta would gather his love, pressing a firm kiss on her mouth—the night ending with the two in bed, their bodies connecting again. The lady kissed her emperor sweetly on his mouth after the nightly activities, whispering affirmations of her love to him as her emperor would draw patterns on her shoulders. 

Soon, the time came for the games to recommence, and the buzz was for the water battle scene to be presented to Rome's people. As Geta prepared himself, he watched Arabella’s handmaiden, which he recognized as his old concubine, Marcella, ready her lady. He puffed his chest with pride as he saw his lady's garments for today; he had commissioned a particular piece for Arabella. He wanted her to match him at the games perfectly. To shine just as bright as he would, as he placed his golden laurel crown, he watched his lady place her veil on. Feeling she was not yet adorned enough, Geta walked to his chest at the corner of his chamber, rummaging through the tressures until he found the one he was looking for. Grinning, He rose, turning back to his lady as she stared curiously. 

“Place this on top of your veil.” Commanded Geta as he placed the golden tiara on Arabella. 

Arabella reached up to steady the tiara and gasped, recognizing it; it was his late mother, Empress Julia Domna’s tiara. 

“Geta…my love, are you sure?” she asked, knowing what people would assume should she wear it. 

“Yes, I want everyone to know your place at my side,” affirmed Geta, leaning down to kiss her neck. 

Arabella shuddered at being tickled by his kiss, nodded, and pinned the tiara in place. Standing, she turned to her emperor. 

“As my Geta wishes of me, I shall follow,” she announced, intentionally changing the title from imperator to his name, kissing him at the corner of his mouth. 

Grinning, Geta extended his arm, leading them out to the courtyard, where they would meet Caracalla down by the chariots. 

Seeing Arabella, Caracalla widened his eyes. Turning to his brother, he asked Geta, “Isn’t that mother’s tiara?” 

“Yes, brother, what a keen eye you have.” Geta taunted cooly, staring at the younger twin. 

Worried about a possible fight, Arabella moved past her transgression to Caracalla and smiled at him. 

“Your monkey looks wonderful today, Imperator. What is his name?” she softly asked, happy that both brothers snapped away from their internal battle to face the lady. 

Caracalla gave her a broad smile, bringing his monkey in front. “Isn’t he just wonderful? His name is Dundus, the magnificent!” exclaimed Caracalla, showcasing his monkey. 

Arabella smiled back, “Yes, quite magnificent.” looking back at Geta, who snorted, rolling his eyes at his brother’s antics. 

Kissing her cheek, Geta pushed her onto his chariot, waiting for Caracalla to climb into his own as the three rode off to the Colosseum. 

Again, a crowd was waiting for the emperors to arrive in their box; Lucilla and Acacius worried, not having seen Arabella in weeks. Their worries briefly subdued seeing her walking with the twins but then growing cold seeing what was on top of her head. Senators and concubines, too, stared in shock at Arabella. Her uncle and father shared a mischievous smirk. Growing shy from the attention, Arabella lowered her eyes, not wanting to make eye contact with her surrogate parents. Macrinus, looking at the people’s reactions, decided to be the brave one and ask the question everyone had at the tip of their tongues.

“Emperor Geta, Emperor Caracalla welcome… my, my Concubine Arabella-” 

“Lady Arabella… she is to be addressed as Lady Arabella, Macrinus.” Sneered Geta, growing annoyed at the man’s blatant disrespect towards his lady and, in turn, him.  

“My apologies, Augustus, Lady Arabella…that is a lovely tiara you have on today,” Macrinus commented, inclined his head to the right as he took in the young lady’s appearance. 

After feeding his monkey, Caracalla answered Macrinus, not realizing what his words meant, “Yes, it was my mother’s tiara...” 

The crowd quietly gasped as they stared at Emperor Geta and his lady in his arms. Not wanting to explain, Geta walked down the steps, seating Arabella behind him before continuing to his own. 

As everyone realized no clear answer would be provided, they, too, entered the royal box, with Lucilla sitting on the far right, away from Arabella. Arabella raised her eyes, trying to make eye contact with her lady and the general, but she was ignored. Feeling a flash of hurt, her eyes filled with tears as she shakily inhaled, bringing her eyes to her hands on her lap. She felt conflicted; on the one hand, she was finally happy to reconnect with Geta and enjoy his love…. On the other, she felt like she was disappointing the two people who she always strived to make proud. She felt like she was losing her parents. 

Once the battle began, Arabella raised her sight, trying to distract herself. As the boats clashed with each other, being led by Lucius, Arabella started to feel ill from the stench of blood mixing with the water. The crowd cheers rang in her ears; Arabella closed her eyes, stifling a gag as another gladiator was slain.  Geta briefly turned back, seeing her looking unwell. He wanted to check on her but did not want to show his vulnerability. 

“Arabella, bring me more wine... " he ordered, hoping his lady would follow without a fuss so she could be near him. 

Inhaling, the young lady rose with a jug of wine and a cup. Walking down the steps, she crouched between the two brothers as she poured for Geta. Geta, leaning towards her, was about to ask her what was bothering her when someone shouted, “Watch out!” 

Everyone turned towards the battle, and all seemed to be moving slowly. They saw Lucius or Hano turn to the crowd and notch an arrow with his crossbow. While to many, it looked like he was aiming for the emperors, Marcus Acacius knew it was aiming for him. Moving Lucilla behind him, Acacius watched in horror as a gladiator shoved against Luicus, causing the young man’s arrow to change from heading towards him to Caracalla’s throne, right where Arabella stood. 

“No!” Shouted Acacius as Arabella's eyes dilated with fear. 

Geta turned to grab his lady, pulling her roughly on his lap as she dropped the jug of wine, causing it to spill all over them. Then, moving at the speed of light, the arrow landed at the golden post of Caracalla’s throne as the younger emperor screamed in horror. Terrified, Arabella looked at Lucius, who looked remorsefully at her but glared at Acacius; the arrow was meant for him. 

“Praetorians!” shouted Geta as he stood, holding Arabella in his arms. Lucilla, shocked at what happened, turned to Acacius and then to Arabella, worried that the arrow might have grazed her surrogate daughter. She gasped, seeing the young lady’s face sickly pale. Geta, Arabella, and Caracalla quickly left the royal box, safely entering deeper into the Colosseum. Arabella, feeling sick, lightly pushed Geta away from her, walking away from the crowd; she crouched into herself, gagging as she tried to calm herself. As Caracalla and Geta finished shouting their orders, Geta turned to find Arabella leaning on the wall. As he walked towards her, he froze as he saw her gag one more time before throwing up. Worried that the wine might have been poisoned, he gathered her in his arms. He commanded his guards to return them to the palace and for a healer to be brought into his chamber. Both emperors hastily left the crowd as they all stared at the lady with fear. Should she perish, they feared what Geta would unleash on the realm. 

Once at the Palace, Geta continued to carry Arabella toward his chambers, placing her gently on their bed as he allowed the healer to assess the young lady. After a few minutes, Arabella woke to see Geta pacing. The healer saw the lady awake and smiled at her as he leaned away. 

Horsely, Arabella called for Geta as she raised her arms to him. Hearing his name, the emperor turned, running to her arms as he took off the tiara and placed it beside them. Once he saw no physical damage to her, he turned to the healer. 

“Well… what caused her to become sick and faint?” questioned Geta. 

The healer, the same one from years past, smiled at the lady, feeling a sense of deja vu, but only this time he was sure the outcome would be different. 

“The stress and blood of the games caused strain on Lady Arabella, but do not worry; everything is perfectly well. I suggest my lady take it easy these next few days, as it is still early. We must not place too much stress on your body, lest it harm your babe.”  concluded the healer. 

Arabella inhaled, shocked as she touched her current flat belly. Geta choked on his saliva as he processed the words. 

“Are you saying… Arabella is carrying my child?” He asked, looking down at his lover’s stomach. 

“Yes, Augustus, our lady is once more carrying the heir to the throne. I congratulate you both, but I must urge you to be extra careful this time so there will be no stress for the lady.” stressed the healer as he rose, bowing to them and leaving the expecting parents alone.

Arabella, although fearful, allowed a smile to grow on her face. A baby, she was to be a mother again. Lifting her eyes to Geta, she caressed her lover’s face, causing him to face her. 

“Geta…are you upset?” she questioned, worried Geta would not be happy with the news.  

Geta snorted at the ridiculous notion, “How could I be upset, sweet girl? You are making me a father again; this time, our son will be welcomed alive into this world; I will not let any harm come to him or you.” 

Geta leaned to kiss Arabella, who turned her face away, causing the emperor to growl in annoyance. 

“Geta, I threw up; you should not kiss me.” she gently explained. 

“I care not.” he countered, firmly taking her into his arms and passionately kissing her. As the lover kissed, Geta, allowing himself to be vulnerable again, whispered promises to his lady. 

“I shall marry you… you will be my lawful wife… my empress… our child will be the beloved prince.”  

His promises made Arabella's heart swell, shedding tears; she deepened the kiss, pouring all her love into the kisses. The remainder of the day saw the emperor and lady shed their clothes as they again connected their passion through the dance of their bodies. Ending with each other's embrace into slumber. Alas, their sleep was cut short, for guards began pounding at the door. Quickly, Arabella threw on a robe to cover her modesty, as did Geta, before opening his door. 

“What has possessed you to” 

“Imperator, there has been a conspiracy found against you and your brother, a means to usurper you!” shouted the guard. 

Geta's body grew rigid, the shock of the news leaving him speechless before he quickly turned to Arabella. 

“Arabella, come, " he ordered before turning to the guards. “Bring me my brother, and bring the traitors to us.” 

Arabella quickly pressed herself to Geta as the two left his chambers and entered another chamber. Only wearing his bedsheet, Caracalla soon joined them as Macrinus walked in. 

“My imperator, pardon my intrusion; I have discovered and brought the traitors to you,” Macrinus said, explaining while guards brought the person in. 

As the hood was pulled off, Arabella gasped in horror, looking away and pressing her face to Geta’s chest. There, in his glory, knelt General Marcus Acacius. 

“General Acacius, you treachery shall-” 

“Please, Emperor Geta, Torture me if you must, but do not lecture me.” scolded Acacius as he silently watched his surrogate daughter sob. 

Geta grew angry, not only because he was interrupted by the General but also because he was causing grief to his lover. He knew how close the two were, and seeing his lady’s reaction, he knew she was as shocked by the betrayal as he was. 

Caracalla shouted, grabbed a sword, and ran to stab the general, exclaiming how they would crucify Lucilla. Geta, releasing Arabella, rushed to his brother, stopping him from committing a drastic act. Pulling him away, he ordered the guards to remove the general and arrest Lucilla. Arabella stayed behind while Macrinus followed the emperors. 

“Wait, Praetorians!” shouted Arabella as she walked forward. 

The guards paused, inclining their heads in respect. Arabella, looking at Acacius, ordered the guards to walk a few feet away and turn their backs. The guards followed the orders of the future empress. 

Once Arabella was sure no eyes were on her, she knelt infront of Acacius; touching his cheek, she opened her mouth to ask a question… but no sound came. 

Acacius, knowing her torment, shook his head. “Whatever outcome comes, little one, know that I always have and will care for you like you were my daughter, and I cannot fault you for your actions to protect yourself. All I ask is that you continue to think of your survival; do not allow yourself to be blinded or lead to your doom.” 

Crying, Arabella nodded her head, not entirely sure what his words meant. She leaned to place a soft kiss on the general’s cheek, and she apologized. 

“I’m sorry, papa, I could not save you,” she whispered. 

Acacius, too, let tears fall from his eyes. “No, do not apologize, my dear. I hold no grudge against you. Protect yourself, my daughter, even now. Go to the emperor, but slap me before you go so that no one can use this interaction against you.” he pleaded. 

Sobbing more, Arabella nodded, kissing her surrogate father goodbye; she stood, riling her hand back, and slapped the general’s cheek with all her force. Just as Geta came back looking for her, watching the interaction in shock. 

“Praetorians, take him to the dungeons…” She ordered. 

“Yes, empress,” shouted the guards as they took the disgraced general away. 

Turning away, Arabella inhaled to control her breathing while rubbing her belly as Geta met her, pulling her into his arms. Geta kissed his lady’s crown as he led her towards where Caracalla was still trashing. Flinching at the younger twin's tantrum, Geta released her, grabbing his brother. 

“Calm yourself, brother, let this episode pass,” grunted Geta as he struggled with Caracalla’s trashing, forcing him to drink a cup filled with wine and a sedative to calm him. Caracalla grew angry and tried to bite his brother, which caused Geta to become upset and slap Caracalla. 

Arabella drew a sharp breath before scolding her lover. “Geta!” 

Walking to Caracalla, Arabella no longer saw a 24-year-old man cowering but the fourteen-year-old prince who welcomed 11-year-old Arabella to the palace all those years ago. A shy 14 - 15-year-old boy who used to call her sister before becoming cruel and began tormenting her. She saw the boy she thought would become her closest ally to play pranks against Geta playfully. As Caracalla held his cheek sobbing, he watched as Arabella knelt before him, reaching to caress his cheek. 

“Hush, sweet boy, he did not mean to strike you; he is just as nervous and upset by the betrayal as you. Shh, brother, don’t take it to heart.” She soothed the younger twin. 

Being reminded of when his mother used to comfort him, Caracalla placed himself in Arabella's arms, sniffing. 

“Sister, why does Geta hate me so…?” he questioned. 

Arabella glared at her lover, who lowered his eyes in shame for striking his brother. “Hush, such nonsense, sweet boy. You know that Geta does not hate you; sleep now.” She soothed, allowing the younger to take liberties with cuddling into her embrace. 

Geta, allowing himself to relax, knelt next to Arabella, gathering her in his arms as the three embraced, wanting each other’s comfort… fearing and wondering what tomorrow might bring.

[the20thangel]

The Emperor and His Lady Chapter 5

Summary: As Arabella slowly began her game, Noticeable changes started happening in the palace. While some are pleased with the changes, others are not. Making a foe to rid of the lady from her emperor's side.

Word Count: 2.9K

Tags: Smut, fluff at the end, Minors DNI, 18+ !!!

Taglist: @barcelonaloverf1life @justnobodynothingmore

Masterlist

The next few days were a blur, but at the same time, it was painstakingly long for Arabella. Instead of spending time with her lady and the general, she forced herself to stay in the company of the emperors. At first, Geta did not notice the change until he noticed many of his concubines were distancing themselves from him. Not understanding the change, he took more notice of his background and saw the company of his day, seeing Arabella in his crowd. Shocked, he had no idea she was there, but since then, he searched for her each day, and each day, she was there, wearing the same colors as he was. Seeing how she intentionally dressed to match him made him feel extra possessive, and he started requesting that she stay by his side by holding onto his arm. 

Another change he noticed was that since Arabella’s presence, more and more of his people were willing to speak with him and no longer seemed to fear him. He had mixed feelings about this new change since the start of his reign; people had always feared him and his brother; it was how they created their empire, but at the same time, seeing people willing to talk to him made him feel a different emotion; it made him feel loved. 

The main person who was not happy with these changes was Caracalla; it had always been just his brother and him against the world, against their enemies and allies. Now, all because of a stupid woman, he was losing his brother, leaving him alone. He didn’t like being alone. This, unfortunately, allowed Macrinus to slither his way to the younger’s ear, telling him his foe was the sweet lady hanging off his brother’s arm, letting him know how everything could go back if the lady were ruined for Geta.

“Wouldn’t you like to have fun with her and finally get your brother back? Take her, and your problems will all disappear, my emperor.” Macrinus whispered, growing in sadistic delight as Caracalla hungrily watched his next prey. 

Sighing, Arabella rolled her shoulders. She sat behind the emperors as they talked with the game master about postponing the next set of games. 

“Filling up the Colosseum with water is taking more time, my imperators, but I assure you that everything will be ready in a month, " the game master said, growing nervous with the emperors’ glare. 

“Or you can work twice as hard and fill it faster, and the games can take place how we want them,” argued Geta, drinking his wine while he stared at the game master. 

The Game master gulped as he felt small under Geta's glare while Caracalla cackled, allowing a concubine to feed him a grape. Seeing the impending temper, Arabella prayed for the gods to be merciful as she stepped in. 

“My Imperator, the game master, just wants to ensure he provided the best games he can offer you, but it is not meant to be a slight. Rush the preparations and have a mediocre game, or move it back a month and ensure an entertaining game for you and the whole of Rome. Imagine the success; people will thank you and your brother for throwing a spectacular gladiator fight,” she soothes, placing an arm on Geta’s arm. 

As Geta turned to his lady, the whole room froze, watching the internal battle between emperor and lady. After what seemed like minutes, Geta took a sip of his wine. 

“If what Lady Arabella says is correct, I only expect the best games from this postponement. If it does not meet my expectations, you will make her a fool and shame my brother and me. Then, only the gods will hear your plea as your body is ripped limb by limb. Do I make myself clear, game master?” Threatened Geta, smirking as the game master stuttered in fear. 

Arabella closed her eyes and exhaled. Considering what could have been the outcome, it was a positive sign. Leaving the resolution as it was, the emperors moved on to have enjoyment.  Geta noticed Arabella’s slight scowl and discomfort as the Emperors started messing with their concubines. 

“Arabella, you are free to go…” Geta dismissed her, turning away. 

Arabella, feeling grateful, bowed before hurrying away from the room, not noticing hungry eyes following her out. Feeling like she was being stared at, she turned, making eye contact with Caracalla as the younger emperor licked his lips, not paying attention to the concubine on his lap. Shuddering, the lady left fast and walked to the gardens to relax her breathing. As she leaned on the fountain, she steadied her breathing when she heard a warm voice calling for her. Lifting her sight, she smiled, seeing Former Empress Lucilla walking towards her. 

“My lady, how I missed you. I apologize for not spending time with you as of late, " Arabella said as she kissed Lucilla's cheeks. 

“No worries, sweet one, I… I have been busy as well…” hesitated Lucilla, looking around her surroundings before pulling Arabella closer. 

Being led around the gardens, Arabella waited as she watched her lady gather her strength.

“I want to tell you something, but please, it must stay between us… no one can know.” Lucilla warned the younger. 

Nodding, Arabella promised as she leaned closer to the former empress. Smiling, Lucilla caressed her surrogate daughter’s cheek. 

“Lucius is alive. My Luicus is with life!” she exclaimed quietly, tears glistening. 

Arabella paused in shock, having conflicting feelings. For one, she felt happy for her lady that the son she grieved all these years was alive and not dead. On the other hand, she felt envious; Lucilla’s son was alive while hers was buried in the ground, and she never had the chance to hold him and love him. Third, if Luicus was alive, would he want his throne? What did it entail for her and for the two emperors? Lucilla’s smile dimmed at Arabella’s silence, causing the younger to force a slight grin. 

“I am happy for you, my Lady. Truly, how joy you must feel to know he is alive and safe… is he not?” She paused, seeing Lucilla frown at her words. 

Tearfully breathing, Lucilla responded, “He is one of the gladiators; he goes by Hano… He…He pushed me away. He does not want a relationship with me.” 

Lucilla shed a tear, remembering how Lucius pushed her away. Arabella's eyes softened. Wiping the tear away, she tried comforting her lady. 

“But he is alive, my lady. That is what matters, and he is so close to you. Pray for the gods for his protection; if he plays his cards right, he can earn freedom. Then there, no one can ever take him away from you.” she comforted her lady, grinning as Lucilla giggled with delight at the idea of Lucius being with her. 

“Yes, I hope so. May the gods protect and guide my son,” Lucilla prayed as the two ladies walked more. 

Soon, the ladies thanked each other, leaving Arabella to enter her chambers and see an upset Marcella waiting for her. 

“Marcella, please not tonight…” pleaded Arabella, growing exhausted hearing the scolding each night she did not lay with her emperor. 

“No! It will be tonight; while you were walking with the former empress, Caracalla and Geta overindulged in their wine, and again, I heard Macrinus urge Caracalla to make his move tonight, given how drunk Geta is; he will not be able to notice what happens until the dawn. You must go tonight; do not let that man win, Arabella….” Marcella nervously scolded her lady. 

“I… I will go tonight…” Arabella confirmed, closing her eyes in defeat. She had no idea how to seduce Geta. She was drunk the last time she did and stupidly naive. 

Marcella shook her head, helping her lady prepare and giving her spoken advice to seduce the emperor. Arabella flushed and bit her lip as she listened to the advice. Once they finished, Marcella led her lady to Geta’s chambers. 

“Now remember what I told you, my lady,” soothed Marcella as she fixed Arabella before bowing and leaving her alone. 

Sighing, Arabella searched for wine, wanting to calm her nerves. Seeing a cup, she walked towards it, looking at it in slight disgust. How many had drank from this cup? She thought to herself. Hearing commotion approaching her, she took a deep breath and drank the rest of the wine before walking back to the middle of the chambers. 

As Geta drunkenly entered his chambers with two concubines, they all froze at the beautiful sight of Arabella waiting for her emperor. Her cheeks blushed as she licked her scarlet lips, her brown waves framing her angelic face. As Geta loosened his hold, both concubines shared a look and silently left the room, leaving the emperor and lady alone. 

“Why are you here, Arabella?” slurred Geta as he staggered, and Arabella met him halfway.

Pressing herself to him, she explained, “I wish to spend the night with you. I have missed you, my imp—” She paused before finishing her sentence as Geta snorted. 

“Missed me, huh? After years of being distant, you now miss me?”  taunted Geta, watching as Arabella lowered her eyes for a second. 

Channeling her bravery, she pushed herself closer, her lips lightly touching Geta’s. She whispered, “Yes, I have…so please, Geta…. My Geta, please let me in.” 

Shuddering, Geta closed his eyes, her words affecting him again. Opening them and seeing his lady’s hooded eyes, with lust in her eyes, he closed the gape. Both allowed the walls around their hearts to fall as they embraced and deepened their kiss. After years of yearning for each other, they were finally breaking free. Arabella gasped, feeling her emperor's tongue enter her mouth. She tightened her hold of his arms as she pressed her body further to his. Groaning at the feeling, Geta grabbed her waist while pushing her closer to his bed. 

Falling on his bed, the lady, heavily breathing, stared up at her emperor, her lips swollen, her night dress falling off her shoulder, exposing more of her skin. Grinning, Geta leaned down, capturing her lips, before he moved down her jaw, down to her neck, where he began his attack, sucking a spot with licks and bites, enjoying the delicious whimpers he brought out from her. 

Arabella, falling more into her lust, wrapped her fingers through the ginger hair as she gasped, feeling Geta bite down on her neck. Yes, it was painful, but her pleasure was more remarkable. Moving to expose her neck more, she moaned, feeling him grind his clothed budge to her exposed and drenched cunt. Biting her lip, feeling devious, she, too, started to grind her hips up. She was matching the rhythm of her emperor. Grunting, Geta released his lady's neck, growing in satisfaction, seeing a red mark starting to form. Taking hold of her hip, He rubbed himself on her wet cunt, his grin growing, seeing her wither and pant from his humping. 

Opening her eyes, Arabella reached up, cradling her Geta’s face, “Please…My Geta, make me yours again; I want to be yours again…” she pleaded, breaking her promise to her 15-year-old self. 

 Growling, Geta began to undress while commanding Arabella to do the same. She did as she was told, shaking in pleasure. Arabella shed her gown before crawling onto Geta’s lap and kissing him again. She moaned into his mouth as he pushed himself inside her. He was thicker and larger from the last time she had him. Releasing her lips, Geta kissed the top of her breast before he began thrusting into his lady. Arabella moaned louder, moving her hips to match the rhythm but losing it once Geta started changing his speed, pounding into her. 

Wanting to have more control and speed, Geta pushed her to lay on her back; raising her hip, he pushed harshly, pulling out at a fast and bruising pace. Arabella screamed in delight at the overwhelming pace, her breasts bouncing with each thrust from her emperor, her mind in a daze, and she could only focus on his cock sliding in and out of her. 

“Who do you belong to…”Grunted Geta.

Leaning her head back, Arabella whispered, “I’m yours…” 

“Louder! I want the whole palace to hear you scream for me!” growled Geta as he pulled entirely out before slamming back inside her. 

Gasping wide eyes, Arabella screamed, “Yours, I am forever your Geta…. Yes… Yes… more…please… My Geta… I want more of you!” 

Grunting, losing a little of his pace, Geta grunted, “Yes, you are mine. Nobody shall ever have you. You were made for me, and nobody can ever… mmm… no one can ever compare to your cunt.” 

Nodding, Arabella squeezed her legs around Geta’s waist, grabbing his hands and placing their intertwined hands on her hips. She entirely gave herself to her emperor. 

“Yes, I will always be your Arabella. No one else can ever take me from you…” she declared before moaning loudly, feeling her emperor’s warm seed enter her. 

 As they gasped for their breath, coming down from their high, the lady ran her fingers through her liege’s hair. 

Listening to his lady’s heartbeat, Geta thought back to her declaration. Did she mean it, or was it in the heat of their pleasure? Unable to fight the tiredness, both lady and emperor fell into Morephus' domain. 

The following morning, Marcella entered her lady’s chambers, ready to prepare her for the day, when her heart jumped to her throat; Arabella wasn’t in bed. Thinking the worst, Marcella ran out of the room towards the emperors' chambers. As she nearly passed by Geta’s chambers, she stopped. Looking around, she quietly entered, growing nervous seeing the emperor naked with a woman in his arms. She decided to creep forward; the sight before made her face grow red, and she quickly moved her eyes away. In his arms was an equally naked Arabella with a slight smile on her face. A smile grew as she quickly covered them with a sheet and left in relief. 

Arabella, feeling warm, snuggled deeper into the arms around her before she realized her actions. Sharply inhaling, she opened her eyes and inclined her head to ensure she knew where she was. Staring at her, Geta’s calm face flushed as memories of last night returned, the heat blooming in her stomach again. Feeling selfish, the young lady pushed herself up, grazing her lips to his; she stared at him for a moment before leaning in and giving a chaste kiss to her emperor, waking him from his slumber. 

Usually, Geta would grow annoyed when any of his concubines tried to kiss him from his sleep, but once he opened his eyes and noticed it was Arabella, he closed his eyes again, enjoying her warm, soft lips on his. Allowing his vulnerable side to take hold, he raised a hand to her cheek, caressing it. Arabella's eyes snapped open in shock, breaking the kiss to lean away from Geta. Geta grumbled as he opened his eyes, annoyed that his kiss was cut short. As both lovers stayed frozen, staring at each other, neither knew how to begin their conversation. 

Geta decided he would be the first to speak, his question from last night coming back to him: “Did you mean what you said last night…” 

Arabella searched his face for his emotions but was unable to read him, “...I-” 

“Did you mean that you will always be mine, Arabella, that no one has or ever will touch you?” questioned Geta more firmly as he sat up. 

Arabella’s heartbeat echoed in her ears, staring into Geta’s soft eyes, even if his tone was firm. Even if her 15-year-old self screamed to place her walls up, pleading not to fall again, begging to protect their heart, Arabella could not lie anymore; she would not deny it. 

Softening her face to grace a sincere smile, Arabella kissed her lover before whispering her words on his lips, “Yes, I am forever yours, Geta, my love… not one person in the entire Roman empire shall ever take your place. I do not want to; I only want to be with you, My Geta.” 

Feeling tears prickle his eyes, The Emperor ignored his 17-year-old self, screaming at him to push her away, that if he pushed her away, they could not suffer through the same heartbreak they felt when their son died. Geta held his lover’s face as he kissed her back. She lay back on the bed as she wrapped her legs against his waist, again begging for him to enter. 

As he entered her sweet body again, hearing her quiet moan, he whispered in her ear to make sure only she would listen to his vulnerable words. “I have missed you, My Arabella, my sweet girl, my empress.” As servants passed Emperor Geta’s chambers, they heard the sweet sounds of two lovers rejoining their hearts together again. 

Later, the feast chamber was tense as many had conflicting feelings about the scene before them. Usually, Geta and Caracalla sat on an extended bench flocked by concubines as they were fed. However, Arabella sat beside Geta’s left today while Caracalla sat beside his brother’s right. Everyone saw the enormous angry mark on Arabella’s neck that she wore proudly as Geta ate happily. Acacius and Lucilla, who were invited, in truth, more commanded to come, shared a weary look between them before Lucilla drew in a sharp breath. Geta raised Arabella to his lap, looking at her with admiration as the young lady smiled at her emperor with the same look. While Caracalla and Macrinus also stared at the lovers, one in shock and the other in annoyance. It would be more challenging to separate the two, thought Macrinus as he drank his morning wine.

[the20thangel]

The Emperor and His Lady Chapter 4

Summary: The Gladiator games begin as Arabella allows herself to go closer to Geta. A new face or foe shows up, and Arabella decides another type of game needs to start, with her being the winner.

Word Count: 2K

Tags: small descriptions of violence ( more spoilers for the movie, just in case.)

taglist: @barcelonaloverf1life @justnobodynothingmore

Masterlist

As the next day rose, Arabella prepared for the gladiator fights. She never really enjoyed such violence, but it was the entertainment norm in Rome. Looking at her garments, she was unsure which to wear; she contemplated so much that her thoughts were broken only when Marcella entered her chambers. Smiling at the Concubine, she embraced her and asked about her morning. 

“Well, so far, sweet one, I heard you spent most of the day with Emperor Geta. I hope he wasn’t too cruel?” she questioned, looking at the young woman to see if she had hints of mistreatment. 

Arabella shook her head; She and Geta never spoke of their lost son, so no one knew why yesterday was so hard for them both. She would not start now; she did not want to share her heartache, at least not with anyone in the palace. As Marcella smiled, she looked at the garments Arabella had laid out for today. Seeing the majority red, she frowned and asked if she had any other colors. Confused by the request, Arabella turned and took out a few garments: light green, light purple, and white. 

“Wear the purple one, my dear. Emperor Geta is wearing a golden and dark blue, and Emperor Caracalla is wearing red and gold.” Marcella requested as she helped Arabella dress. 

“Why the change? It's usually Geta who wears red…” Arabella pondered but was grateful for the news; she did not want to give Caracalla the wrong impression that they should match. 

“Who knows with them two, but we must please, and Geta would not be pleased to see you in red today.” Marcella chuckled, truly not understanding the minds of the twin emperors. 

As Arabella finished dressing, both women left her chambers searching for their emperors. Walking down the steps, Arabella noticed the crowd waiting to ride with the emperors. General Acacius and Former Empress Lucilla, her father, and her uncle were included. Both her Father and Uncle smiled at her. It had been some time since they last saw her, and both were relieved she had not been dismissed from the emperors. She inclined her head toward them to show her respect before turning and bowing to her lady. Lucilla quickly roamed her eyes before embracing Arabella, whispering condolences from yesterday, which only led to Acacius raising a question brow to the women, who ignored him. Before everyone could continue, horns blew to signal the Emperors’ arrival. Coming down were Emperors, pleased to see everyone respectfully bow to them. Behind them was a man Arabella had never seen before. As they all rose, the Emperors stopped in front of Arabella and her group; Geta roamed his eyes down her body and again felt something flutter in his chest, seeing her wear colors close to his own. This only made Caracalla roll his eyes, not understanding the significance of color matching. 

As the Emperors walked, Geta paused and turned back, an arm extended towards Arabella. 

“Arabella come…” Geta commanded as everyone widened their eyes. 

It had been years since Arabella had walked by her emperor’s side. Trying to ignore the staring, Arabella, steady and holding her head up, walked to Geta, took his arm, and continued to walk to the chariots waiting for them. Everyone shared numerous looks, some uneasy, some confused, and a few pleased, before they, too, followed the emperors to the Colosseum. 

The Colosseum was buzzing with excitement for the games. The one good thing the emperors were known for was their ability to entertain the people. While the rest of the concubines walked to their section left from the Emperor's box, Arabella, still in arms with Geta, was led into the royal box with Marcus Acacius, Lucilla, the strange man, and several Senators. 

As the group mingled briefly before the start of the games, the strange man, seeing Geta drinking wine with his brother, walked to the young lady. 

“Ah, Concubine Arabella, if I am not mistaken.” said the man, wearing fine clothing but still looking out of place. 

 Many stopped and stared at the interaction. Yes, even though technically Arabella was a concubine, no one, not one person in court, had ever dared to greet her using that title; she was always addressed as a Lady. 

Arabella, however, did not show her discomfort. She stared at the unknown person with a raised, unamused eyebrow and responded, “Yes, and who you might be?”. 

Macrinus laughed, clearly having underestimated the young lady, and introduced himself, “I am Macrinus; I have brought a new batch of gladiators for today’s games. I must say you are quite a beau-” 

“Then I hope for your sake, Macrinus, your gladiators provided a good fight and plenty of entertainment for my Impertors and Rome. My Impertors do not like wasting their time on boring games.” Arabella interrupted, having been in court for years and raised to stand and hold her own in the vipers of court.  

Macrinus's eyes grew in shock as the crowd chuckled at the lady's bluntness, including Acacius and Lucilla, so much so that they looked like proud parents. Geta and Caracalla also laughed into their wine while Geta felt a sense of pride in seeing his lady so dignified, burning someone with her sharp words. Arabella, smirking, inclined her head as she walked down, sitting beside Lucilla and Acacius behind Geta’s throne. Horns rang again to indicate the start of the games as the Master of Games provided his speech to rile up the people. Once he introduced the Twin Emperors, Geta and Caracalla saluted the people, and they turned to General Aciacus. 

“General, a few words to the people of Rome.” Commanded Geta. 

Caracalla turned and raised his arms, “General, the people are waiting…”

Acacius turned, looking to his wife, who nervously nodded. As he turned to walk down, he made eye contact with Arabella, who gave him a small smile and nodded to the General. Unfortunately, Geta noticed, and his face grew darker, his patience leaving him. 

“Now, General.” He commanded through his gritted teeth. 

Acacius cleared his throat as he began addressing the Colosseum's people. As he spoke, Arabella, noticing Geta's soured mood, quickly poured more wine, wanting to appease the emperor before his temper grew. She leaned down, silently offering her peace offering. Geta turned his head and saw the wine from his lady, smirking as he accepted the gift. Turning back his attention to the general, Arabella, sighing in relief, leaned back only to inhale sharply as Acacius finished his speech. 

“...Rome needs it more than ever…” 

The royal box froze, hoping the emperors did not understand the small slight spoken towards them. The two emperors glanced at each other, unsure if it was a slight to them. Acacius bowed as he turned back to return to his seat beside his wife. 

Exhaling, Arabella prepared herself for the long day, watching bloodshed after bloodshed. Then one of Caracalla’s favorites comes out on top of a rhino. A group of men, presumably Macrinus’s mean, came out, waiting for the battle to commence. Before the battle began, one man stabbed his sword on the ground. He grabbed a handful of soil and rubbed it through his hands. Caracalla laughed, taunting the actions, while Lucilla softly gasped as she stared at the man in shock. This caused Acacius and Arabella to turn to her in confusion. 

The Battle began, with one gladiator being killed by being squashed by the rhino, causing Geta to stick his tongue out in sadistic delight while Caracalla clapped. Arabella stifled a gag, closing her eyes briefly before continuing to watch. As the gladiators began to work together, the crowd cheered for the bloodshed. Again, the rhino charged toward one gladiator named Hano, but luckily, the man jumped away, causing the animal to slam into the wall. The crowd cheered, with the emperors running towards the edge to look down. Arabella squirmed, growing anxious with how violent this fight was becoming. Soon, the battle ended, and Hano won the fight. At first, Geta provided mercy for his gladiator, but when Hano ignored him, he turned his thumb down and grinned as Hano killed the previous gladiator. Lucilla closed her eyes in sadness to see her newly found son so angry with rage. 

Soon, the crowds left, with the General and his wife leaving for their villa and Arabella following her emperors back to the palace. The party continued, and Arabella faded into the background as Geta and Caracalla surrounded themselves with various concubines.  Humming her sad lullaby again to herself, she sipped wine and walked around the room, greeting senators and other nobles. As she made her rounds, she was met with the scene of Geta and Caracalla laughing. Drunk and feeling devious, Caracalla grabbed Arabella's arm, side-eyeing his brother, and leaned to the lady. 

“Concubine Arabella, you look divine today. You should wear less red and more colorful colors like this one; they will suit you better than red.” he chuckled as he leaned to smell her hair. 

Arabella cringed as she tried to push herself away from Caracalla. She felt another hand on her arm and pulled her towards them. Landing on Geta’s lap, the elder glared at his brother as he pressed his lady to his body. Grateful for being away from the younger emperor, Arabella, she pushed herself further into Geta, placing her face in his neck. 

“I’d have to disagree, brother; Arabella looks best in red because they are my colors; this shows the court who she belongs to… Which is mine!” exclaimed Geta, ensuring everyone knew that Arabella was only his to play with. 

Caracalla’s face fell before turning red with anger as he left the party to his chambers, a few concubines following suit, hoping to ease the mood of the younger emperor. Geta sighed, signaling for a guard to step forward. 

“Take Lady Arabella back to her chambers safely,” he commanded as he raised her off his lap. Grunting when another concubine quickly took her spot. 

As the guard agreed and turned, Arabella lowered her eyes, turning to Geta. 

“Pleasant dreams, my Imperator,” she whispered as she left the room and headed to her chambers. Geta watched as her figure left before he, too, decided he was done; pushing the person from his lap, he ignored the outcry as he made his way to his chambers. 

Once Arabella reached her room, she thanked the guard and went inside, surprised to see Marcella waiting for her. 

“Marcella, I had not seen you at the feast; where were you?” She questioned her companion. 

Marcella tearfully smiled at her and embraced her. “I have come to say goodbye and to warn you.” 

“Goodbye, what? Why?” answered Arabella, shocked by the news. 

“I have been let go; I am no longer a concubine. My time has ended… but I must warn you before I leave.” Marcella explained. 

Arabella shook her head. “No, you can’t go; you are my sole companion here…I will find a way to stay close to you.” 

“Arabella, sweet girl, even if I cannot stay, I will always protect you… please listen… you need to lay with Emperor Geta …soon.” Marcella interrupted as she grabbed the young lady’s hands, staring straight into her brown eyes. 

“What. Why are you telling me this?” questioned Arabella, shocked by what she had heard. 

Marcella wryly glanced to see if anybody was nearby, “Once Emperor Caracalla dismissed me, I saw a strange man approach him; I could not hear what they were talking about until I heard Caracalla express jealously that Geta has kept you untouched for many years. The man… told Caracalla that he was Emperor, so it was in his right to use any of the concubines he saw fit. I think he will try soon, as everything is so busy because of the games. Please, Bella, give your body just once to Geta; if you do, he will have you closer to him, and Caracalla can’t get to you.” 

Arabella gasped, shocked at the lengths Caracalla would go to. Then she grew angry hearing the description of the man as she connected the dots to his identity: Macrinus planted the idea. She decided she would no longer be a pawn used by men for their silly games. She could also play the game to protect herself and her staff. 

“Thank you for telling me, Marcella. Take your things and place them in my servant's chambers. You will now be my handmaiden and my eyes and ears in this palace,” she thanked the older woman. 

She closed her door and turned to her mirror, her face dark with determination. She would not lose.

[the20thangel]

The Emperor and His Lady Masterlist

It can also be found in a03 under the same name title!

Summary: Twin Emperors Caracalla and Geta rule Rome and their court with tyranny and fear. Another victory is won for the Roman Empire; as the celebrated general returns home, he is greeted by the twin Emperors. In the shadows, he is greeted by a powerful ally who has yet to fully understand her power over her emperor.

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8 (Final Chapter)

[the20thangel]

The Emperor and His Lady Chapter 3

Summary: As the day arrives, the anniversary of Emperor Geta and His Concubine Arabella's son's death. Memories of the past are enhanced, and Geta and Arabella are unsure of what is left of their relationship.

Word Count: 2K

Tags: angst, !miscarriage! hints of smut, violence

Masterlist

Taglist: @barcelonaloverf1life, @justnobodynothingmore

The two, grieving, sat on the edge of Geta’s bed. Geta breathed in Arabella's scent as the grieving lady continued musing, running her fingers through his hair. Soon, Geta removed himself from his lady’s embrace and left to wash his face. Feeling numb, Arabella continued sitting down and took in the mess the emperor had made in his chambers. Sighing, she stood, wiping her tears off her face, and slowly and carefully approached the door. Reaching to pull, an arm grabbed her left arm, making her freeze. Slowly turning, she was faced with Geta’s confused face. His eyes are bloodshot red, and his face is paler than the makeup he usually wears. It is a call to the past, where a young girl held a prince’s arm, pleading for him to stay. 

“Ara…bella… where are you going?” questioned Geta, looking as Arabella lowered her red-lined eyes. 

“My Chambers, Imperator….I'm letting you rest.” she softly replied, her voice still shaking. 

Geta furrowed his brow, not understanding as he pulled her, leading her towards his bed. Arabella, having no strength to fight, allowed herself to be led and pushed onto his bed. Geta, realizing this was the first time in years he had her in his bed, softly laid next to her. As they both lay frigid in the bed, only their hallowed breathing filled the room. Geta finally allowed himself to break from his persona and let his walls fall. He gathered Arabella in his arms and pressed his face into her hair, allowing her scent to ease him to sleep. While the lady reluctantly pressed her face unto his chest, her body and mind exhausted, lowered her walls more, and allowed to find comfort in her emperor’s arms for the night. 

Unfortunately for Arabella, the warmth of the arms around her did not soothe her in her dreams. Her dreams allowed painful memories to re-enter her mind. When she was 15, her emperor was a mere prince of 17. It was a party; she had just turned 15, and many nobles were around to celebrate another year into the reign of Septimius Severus. Standing behind her prince, Arabella, amused, watched as many tried to find favors from the emperor and his sons. Everyone failed and walked away with a bit of shame. She felt a tug on her arm and allowed herself to be placed on Prince Geta’s lap. They always played this game; it never went further from her sitting on his lap and feeding him, but she did not mind. As she fed her prince grapes and wine, Geta raised his cup to her lips, which made the girl frown, moving her head away. 

“My Prince, I cannot eat it; it is your food. Don’t waste your father’s feast on me.” She explained, growling pale, seeing him glare at her. 

“I can do what I please, girl; if I say you will drink from my cup, then you will drink from my cup… do you understand?” Answered Geta harshly, pushing the cup more to her mouth. 

As Arabella gulped, she allowed the sweet wine to enter, but another concubine interrupted. 

“Let her be my prince; she is right; don’t waste your time with the plain girl; allow me to entrain you…” The female concubine gasped as her sentence was interrupted by a slap from Geta. 

Arabella gasped in shock and horror as Geta turned his icy glare to the other woman. 

“Did I say share your opinion? I choose who entertains me, and I do not want you, so you will leave me be. Go and entertain my brother if you are so eager to please.” Geta turned his attention back to her. " Drink, " he ordered. 

Arabella watched the other concubine’s face reddened as she walked to Caracalla. Wryly, she raised her prince’s cup to her lips, allowing the sweetness to burn through her throat. 

As the night progressed and memories grew hazy, the prince and his concubine, no, his lady, ended up in bed, with the sounds of whimpers, bed rocking, grunts, quiet moans, and quiet worships saying “Geta…my Geta...” echoed in the room. 

Soon, the prince and his concubines returned to their routines, seemingly forgotten that night until six months later. When Arabella finally allowed herself to be checked by a healer, having felt her sickness worsen by the month. 

“I say congratulations to you and our prince, my lady, " the healer smiled. 

Arabella, confused, raised herself to sit, asking the healer to elaborate. 

“You are with the prince’s heir, my lady, for six months, I would say, although I cannot say for sure; let me announce to the prince and his father, and we-” 

“No! No, I will share the news. I do not want them thinking I was hiding it from them.” She gently protested, smiling as the healer agreed and bowed his head respectfully as she left. As the healer, too, rose to walk away, he was greeted by another concubine. The concubine looked sour, staring at Arabella, jealous that everyone, servants, nobles, and other concubines, respected Arabella, calling her “My lady” instead of the title Concubine. 

“That girl hardly has the favors. I don’t understand why you all greet her like she is the empress, " she questioned the healer. 

The healer only snorted, saying, “It matters not who has the current favor, lest be the one who produces an heir; she will be the one with power, and you, my dear, are not that person.” 

The concubine sharply inhaled as she studied Arabella; seeing the swell in the young woman’s midsection, she grew overly jealous. How was she supposed to keep her favor if Arabella kept making a mess of her plans, first the wine, back six months, and now this? Turning to see if anybody was near, the female concubine hurried behind Arabella, pushing the young one down the stairs. Arabella screamed as her body twisted and fell down a flight of stairs, feeling broken as she lay on the ground. Both women did not see that the emperor with his sons was on the other side of the corridor. 

Geta, although worried, schooled his face as his younger brother cruelly laughed and his father scolded him for not having order in his harem. Walking towards the conflict, the Emperor's calm mood turned sour. Seeing the young maiden bloodied, he saw the blood exiting her body from her groin area. Snarling, Septimius Severus took hold of the older woman and slapped her. 

“What did you do, foolish woman? Healers! Guards!” the emperor barks, ordering the female holding her cheek to be arrested, Arabella to be taken to a chamber, and the child saved. 

As Geta followed his lady wide-eyed, he heard his father threaten his other concubine. 

“If my son’s heir perishes today, you will be begging for mercy as animals rip your limbs away from your body.” 

Walking into a chamber close to his, Geta nearly gagged at the pungent stench of blood, seeing Arabella crying as the healers hurried, trying to save the tiny babe. Alas, the fall and trauma were too great for the young woman’s body, and her baby slid lifeless from her body—screams of agony as Arabella cried for her child. Geta, frozen with shock and anger, could only watch as the healers wrapped the tiny body, with ringing in his ears muffed the wails of Arabella and his father's anger. 

A strong hand pounded on his shoulder; pale Geta raised his sight to his father. 

“The healers said the girl will be healed enough in four months. In four months, you will bed her again and have her pump again with a child. If she could produce one son, she could do it again. I am counting on you, Geta.” commanded Septimius Severus as he left his son behind. 

Growing upset, Geta rose, wanting to take his anger out, but a shaking hand stopped him momentarily before he could leave. Turning with a sneer, Geta saw Arabella’s pale, sweaty, anguished face pleading for him to stay. 

Arms distant away, Arabella, sobbing, pleaded for her prince, “Please don’t leave Geta…My Geta, please…” 

Geta pulled harshly, his arms away, aware of the servant's stare. Without looking back, he left the room, leaving a heartbroken girl weeping; as she pleaded again, she tragically watched as she was abandoned. Her tears froze after, her labored breath being the only sound as she stared where Geta left. Her heart, broken beyond repair, her dreams …now seeing them as stupid naive girl’s allusion. Her heart started building walls as she promised never to plead to Geta again. He made it known he was not hers. He made it known that he blamed her for the death of their son. They were nothing. 

Gasping, Arabella awoke from her nightmare. Tears spilled as she sat up, gasping for air and noticing she was not in her chambers. Slowly turning, she was greeted by Geta’s peaceful face as he slept. Wiping away her tears, she rose from the bed, ready to leave once again, and again, she was stopped by her emperor’s hand. 

“Arabella… did I say you could leave,” Tiredly asked Geta; he cooly stared at her. 

The lady stared back before shaking her head and lowering her gaze. She was too tired to fight, not today. She just wanted to mourn her son in peace without conflict. Geta stared for a while, seeing Arabella's dimmed eyes; he closed his eyes for a moment and exhaled before calling out to his servants. As the servants quickly and quietly came in, they cleaned the mess without question while others dressed him in mourning robes. Geta asked the servants to bring mourning gowns for Arabella as the lady stayed seated at the edge of the bed, never raising her eyes. 

Once they returned, they, too, began to dress her, allowing her to place her veil on her own. It was a sheer black and red, signaling that she was Geta’s concubine. Once the two were dressed, Geta led them to the pavilion, where guards led them to the royal family’s crypts. As Geta walked in… he paused for a moment, turning back to offer his arm only for it quickly fall back seeing Arabella, eyes still lowered, thanked the guard for helping her in. 

“Of course, my lady,” whispered the guard as he took steps back, leaving a respectable space between him and Emperor Geta’s concubine.

 Feeling a green monster of jealousy, Geta grabbed her arm and continued his way. Passing Marcus Aurelius, Commodus Aurelius, and his father. They stopped at a small burial site, a small stone that read, "Here lies the little prince; may the gods welcome him to paradise." Arabella soon again let her tears fall as she kneeled in front of her son’s tomb, whispering sweet words of love, forgetting that Geta was behind her, watching as she wept for their son. Geta allows his grief to come through and lets tears fall freely down his face. He wondered what it would have been like had their son lived, had he been six years old today. After an hour, the two grieving parents silently returned to the palace. Once they reached the corridor to their chambers, Arabella thanked her emperor for allowing her to visit their son, bowing before she tried to walk to her chambers. 

Again, an arm stopped her, and turning slowly, she raised her brown eyes to his. 

“Tomorrow, we are having games in honor of General Acacius… I want you close to me, Arabella.” Geta ordered, but if you listened closely, he was not commanding more, asking. 

Arabella closed her eyes and bowed, “As my Imperator wishes of me, I shall follow. Pleasant dreams, my Imperator.” 

Rising from her bow, she walked away from Emperor Geta again as the emperor watched his lady leave him in dismay. Hearing her reply to him with the imperator instead of “My Geta,” it seemed the emotions from last night faded. He wasn’t her Geta, just her emperor, and she would follow his commands not out of love or fondness but because of duty. She was his concubine, and he was her emperor. He could not complain… right? How can he... He placed the barrier on them when she was 15, and he was just a prince of 17.

[the20thangel]

The Emperor and His Lady Chapter 2

Summary: As Arabella readies herself to meet Former Empress Lucilla, she encounters Caracalla and Geta. She does not know why Emperor Geta's cruel words affect her more than usual. Visiting Lucilla, she remembers leading tensions growing between Arabella and her Imperator.

Word Count: 1.8K

Masterlist

The following day, Arabella woke up with the warm Roman sun shining on her face. Allowing a small smile to grace her face, she rose, stretching away the sleep from her body. Walking to her bath, she prepared herself for the day, eager to meet Lucilla to break their fast. Putting on a smooth red gown, she placed her golden earrings and two rings on each middle finger. The earring and sapphire ring came from her mother, the only reminder she had left of her, given to her before she left her home.

In contrast, the emerald ring was a gift given to a silly, naive girl who had the illusion she would one day be a kind empress. How ridiculous indeed, Arabella remarked to herself. She was finally completing her look with a sheer but still modest veil on her head. Her veil was a simple one, red with a golden lining. It was just a lovely garment of noble standing to the untrained eye. To those who knew, it was a veil that signified and told everyone she was Geta’s and should not be touched. 

Rising from her chair, Arabella walked out of her chambers and towards her mission. Along the way, she greeted the servants and passing concubines. One concubine, Marcella, smiled at Arabella; she was always kind to her. 

“Good Morrow, sweet one, where you headed this morning, surely not to greet our imperator?” tauntedly asked Marcella, although her taunt was humorous rather than malicious intent. 

“Good Morrow, Marcella, no, not him; I am to visit Lady Lucilla and to break our fast… How did our imperator sleep last night?” Arabella replied. 

Marcella rolled her eyes, knowing that her inquisition of Emperor Geta was not one of care; Arabella asked to see the emperor’s mood before she asked her favor. 

“From what I heard, he was satisfied and happy... Although I cannot be sure myself since I was sent away before the…fun could begin,” explained Marcella, shrugging. 

Marcella knew she was due to be replaced by the emperors. Concubines never lasted with them; the one who did was Arabella. 

The maiden smiled at her companion, thanking her as she continued. Walking towards the exit, if she did not see Geta, she could sneak away before he noticed; it's not like he ever cared to look for her. Of course, today, the odds were slightly against her. The two emperors were walking back from the exit with their flock of concubines for the day. Stifling her grimace and bringing a forced smile, she bowed once the entourage met her. 

“Good Morrow, my imperators…” she softly greeted, rising from her bow but never making eye contact with them. 

“Pray tell me, where do you think you are going, Concubine Arabella?” snorted Caracalla as he hungrily raked his eyes on her. 

Arabella forced herself not to sneer or shudder. Raising her sight but still not making eye contact, she answered, “Wherever my imperator wants me to be, emperor Caracalla.”

Geta watched as his brother's frown started growing on his face. Again, Caracalla was reminded that Arabella only had to answer to him, not them both. Turning to Arabella, a sense of pride and satisfaction blossomed in his chest, and Geta noticed the colors Arabella wore that day. They were his colors, showing off to Rome that she belonged to him and him alone. Before he allowed the sentiments to grow and before Caracalla could do something like strike her, he interrupted. 

“Let the girl go, brother, she will come when no, if I ever need her…” He spoke, cruelly insinuating that he would never call upon her; he would never need her. As Geta began to smile with his brother and entourage’s cruel laughter. His face froze once he noticed her eyes. Although she inclined her head in respect and bowed, her eyes dimmed. They were dimming at the reminder for everyone to hear that she was just his emotional plaything and nothing eyes. Growing frustrated, Geta growled and stalked away, leading the group away from the lady. 

Arabella shakily inhaled to ease her beating heart as she waited for them to leave her. Once she could no longer hear them, she fully rose; the tightness in her heart boomed in her chest, allowing a quick tear to fall from her eye. She quickly forced her walls up and walked out of the palace with a purpose; she was meeting someone who was always glad to be near her. 

Arriving in General Acacius’s villa, Arabella grinned in delight, seeing two parental figures welcome her into their home. Former Empress Lucilla grinned and embraced the woman she considered a daughter. Taking in her appearance for any harm, seeing her perfectly healthy eased her worry about Arabella being so close to the twin emperors. 

The Surrogate family enjoyed each other company, breaking their fast, although both Acacius and Lucilla noticed how reserved Arabella was today. Both fear that she may not have suffered physical harm but emotional from the emperors. Before the two could ask, a soldier asked Marcus Acacius to return to the palace as the emperors called for him. Sighing, he wished his two ladies a pleasant day and followed out. 

“How long do you have with me, sweet one?” asked Lucilla, wanting to know how much time was granted. 

Arabella smiled at the older woman, taking her arm as the two walked towards the gardens. 

“All day, my lady, Emperor has no use for me today…” She spoke softly, trying not to sound upset. 

Lucilla nodded, happy they could spend the day together and enjoy each other’s company. The two walked around the garden and enjoyed Rome’s summer heat and aroma of flowers. As the two spoke of unimportant things, Arabella slowly let her mind wander, letting out the soft hum of a sad lullaby. Lucilla paused to hear the melancholy melody she had taught Arabella four years ago, A Melody of sorrow, which both women understood and shared.

“It is tomorrow, isn’t it…” Asked Lucilla, watching as Arabella's eyes widened in realization.

Nodding, Arabella forced down her tears so she would not cry. 

“Yes, I had not remembered… I now realize why my emotions have been enhanced…” Arabella whispered, her eyes shaking. 

Lucilla sorrowfully smiled, taking the young woman’s hand into her own. She understood her emotions, for she, too, knew the feeling. 

“Has he been cruel to you lately?” Lucilla asked, hoping the answer was no. 

“No more than usual… I was just confused about why his words were affecting me more than usual…but I know, remembering…but I don’t think he does.” She replied. 

“Would he allow you to visit…” Lucilla pressed on. 

Arabella shrugged, “I am afraid to ask; I don’t want to be crushed if he doesn’t allow me.” She confessed that she honestly did not want to risk getting Geta upset. 

Lucilla hummed, not knowing what else to say to provide comfort. As the two walked back from the gardens, their time together ended. With Acacius waiting for Arabella to take her back to the palace. 

Knowing what would come tomorrow, Arabella slowly unraveled her hair, letting her curls fall, and changed her gown to a night dress. Preparing for a long night and more extended day, a quiet knock stopped her from laying on her bed. Sighing, not wishing for night visitors, she slowly went to open the chamber, gasping in shock and seeing Marcella cradling her red and bloody cheek. 

“Gods, Marcella! What happened?” she questioned, bringing her companion in and asking a servant to bring a bowl of water, towels, and a healer. 

“Our Imperator is in one of his rageful moods tonight…” explained Marcella, wincing at the sting from the water. 

Arabella shuddered. Geta’s rages were as nearly bad as Caracalla's. While Geta and a few concubines could control Caracalla, with Geta, it was harder to control. 

“Do we know what brought on his rage?” she pondered, bringing in the Healer and allowing the man to access the damage. 

“I was not in his service today, but as I walked back to the concubines' chambers, I heard his anger through his door, things breaking, and two cries of pain. I saw him strike Otho with Fabia on the floor as I ran in. Both were begging for mercy. I tried to intervene and told them to leave, but it only angered him more, and he threw a vase at me, which is how I got my cut….We were able to leave, but he is still raging. I was told they were sleeping and that he awoke from his slumber terrified and grew angry when he couldn’t find who he was looking for. They don’t know what he dreamed of…” explained Marcella, looking as Arabella paled. 

“I know what made him upset…I will calm him..”

“NO! Sweet girl, please, don’t subject yourself to his pain. He will not want you near him. Please, Arabella, don’t go…” 

Arabella only shook her head; she needed to go. She could not allow anyone else to get injured. As she left, she asked the healer to continue his service, and she would pay him tomorrow—Ignoring Marcella’s outcries, she walked towards Geta’s chambers. 

Pausing at the sounds of things breaking and rageful outcries, she prayed again to the gods for bravery and courage. Inhaling, she walked into the chamber and looked for her Imperator. Geta paused his destruction, hearing someone enter; his face darkened with the sight of Arabella. 

“Get out! I do not wish to see you!” shouted Geta, frustrated as Arabella shook her head. 

Walking closer, she argues, “No, Please let me in my Imperator, please…” 

“NO! I do not want you…Leave!” Geta continued to rage as he threw another vase towards her, a wave of slight regret flowing through him to see her flinch away from the vase. 

Arabella shakily inhaled, knowing his torment, as she raised her arm towards him, with tears in her eyes ready to fall; she allowed her walls to loosen. Even though she promised never again to address him like she was going to, she knew they needed each other right now, even if he denied it. 

“Please, Geta…my Geta, please let me in..” she pleaded, allowing her grief to take over and pleadingly looked at her emperor. 

Shuddering at her softly spoken request, grief ripped through him again at hearing her call him by her Geta. He quickly ran towards her, wrapping his arms around her waist and burying his face in her neck. Sobbing, Geta allowed his body to slump, causing Arabella to struggle against his weight and, almost dragging him, walked to the bed, where she allowed him to press more into her. Hushing him, she ran her finger through his fiery locks, humming the sad lullaby she learned from Lucilla, allowing him to take her comfort. 

As the two continued their tearful embrace, Geta calmed down and asked a question that broke Arabella’s heart again, just like it had done years ago. 

“How old would he have been tomorrow…” he questioned, still hiding his face in her neck. 

Arabella shuddered, allowing a sob to break free, and she tightened her embrace of her emperor. 

“Six, our son would have been six tomorrow, my imperator,” she whispered.

[the20thangel]

The Emperor and His Lady

Spoilers for Gladiator 2, following the movie's plot to a certain extent.

Summary: Another victory for the Roman Empire; as the celebrated general returns home, he is greeted by the twin Emperors, Geta and Caracalla. In the shadows, he is greeted by a powerful ally who has yet to fully understand her power over her emperor.

Word Count: 1.2K

This will be a series. Masterlist

No tags for now, but it will change throughout the story.

Hundreds of people cheered for him as General Acacius rode into the square. The twin emperors, Geta and Caracalla, were waiting for him at the top of the stairs. Forcing down a grimace, General Acasius walked up to meet and salute his emperors. The crowd of senators, nobles, and the emperors' concubines watch their interaction, seeing how the general kissed Geta’s hand in respect as Emperor Geta led the three men into the inner chambers. The crowd dispersed, leaving one lady waiting in the background. Lady Arabella, noble at birth, her father and uncle senators, stood behind a column. Although noble, she was technically a concubine.

Her father, ever the ambitious man, wanted more power than his current seat, so when she was 11 years old, she was offered to Emperor Geta when he was still a prince at 14, hoping that Geta would one day make her his Empress. Unfortunately, he has yet to fulfill her father's dream. However, according to what the other concubines say, she is considered one of Geta’s favorites. Geta and Caracalla tended to switch out their lovers every few years for boredom or other reasons. Years come and go, and concubine by concubine gets switched all but her; Geta has never pushed her away, even if they had years of not laying with each other. The last time she lay with the emperor was when she was 15 and he was 17. She was now 21, and he was 24, but he always kept her close. 

As she waited, she hummed a distant lullaby, a sad one someone close to her would sing as they reminisced about a lost love. Her musing was broken as the chambers opened; she hid in case it was the twins, not wanting to pretend to be happy to see them, especially Caracalla. Arabella could not stand the younger of the two. Upon seeing the General, Arabella grinned, stepping out of the shadows to greet her friend. 

“General, Rome thanks you for your service to her.” Arabella sweetly greeted. 

Marcus Acacius smiled at the young girl, taking her smooth hand into his, and pressed a quick kiss. “Lady Arabella, how do you fare, young one?” 

Arabella smiled, linking her hands behind her back; it would not be suitable for her or the general to be seen holding hands. Of course, he would never dishonor his wife, and she did not need problems with Geta. 

“Well as I can be, stuck in this grand palace, General, although visiting your wife provides me great comfort.” She explained, letting him know that she and the former empress provide great comfort to each other. 

“That is good, although I’m surprised our Imperator lets you have such liberties so often?” confessed Acacius, his smile growing as Arabella shrugged. The little lady did not seem to understand her power over Geta. 

As the two converse for a quick while, they both heard footsteps coming their way. Both turned and bowed at Geta and Caracalla coming towards them. Arabella grimaced, hoping Geta was in a good mood; she did not need to have rageful Geta in her hands. As the twins stopped before the lady and general, Caracalla lustfully slid his eyes over Arabella’s body. The lady was beautiful; there was no doubt, her doe brown eyes giving the allusion of innocence, her brown curly hair that she always kept up, allowing a few strands to frame her round face. She never wore too much makeup; she was a beauty, and it always made him jealous that she was Geta’s and Geta’s only. Geta never even touches her, which is what makes him upset; from what he knows, she has only laid with his brother twice since she was made a concubine. She is the only original concubine he and his brother never shared, and when he asks Geta, he becomes dark and threatens him. What was so special about this girl that he couldn’t have? 

“Imperators,” greeted Arabella, never letting her sight fall on either brother. 

Geta stares at Arabella for a while, seemingly disinterested, before turning to Marcus Acacius. 

“General, I would expect you riding to your household to greet your wife that you so desperately say you miss… not conversing with a concubine…and mine to add…” Drawled Geta, annoyed at his brother’s taunting smirk and a little laugh. 

Before Geta could snap at his brother to quiet, he was interrupted by a soft voice. 

“It was my fault, Imperator; I spoke to him first; I apologize for my transgressions,” replied Arabella, not wanting the general to be on thin ice with them because if Acacius were in trouble, it would lead to Lucilla. Arabella did not push this on the woman she considered a motherly figure to her. 

 Caracalla and Acacius froze at the interruption; no one stupid enough would ever interrupt Geta while he was speaking.

As the tension grew, Arabella inhaled, praying to the gods Virtus and Mars for bravery. She raised her eyes to Geta, letting her brown eyes meet his. As the two stared at each other, the emperor and lady, it felt like a pin could drop and create the loudest echo. Another beat went by as Geta closed his eyes and exhaled, walking away and calling for his brother to follow him, then barking for the concubines to be brought to the entertainment room. This left Arabella exhaling in relief and smiling at Acacius. Acacius stared at the lady in shock, again surprised at how much power she had over the older twin emperor. 

“General, please let my Lady know I shall visit her in the morn to break my fast with her…rest well,” lightly commanded Arabella as she inclined her head with respect and walked the opposite way where the emperors were, seemingly she was the only concubine not entertaining them tonight. 

Again, amazed that Arabella did not seem to understand her stance and power, he inclined his head towards the little lady and walked to his horse, wanting to reunite with his wife. 

As Arabella watched the general leave, she sighed in despair, being left alone again in a place she knew she did not belong. She walked to her chambers, and she was lucky; she knew that. While the other Conbuines had to share a section of the palace, ready to please their Imperators, she had her private chamber far from the emperors' chambers. She supposed being a daughter and niece of two well-respected Senators provided that perk. Arabella sunk into her chair and stared at her reflection. Another day in her prison, alone with no true friends, she is used as a pawn for an achievement she will never get. She knows she will never be empress; Geta enjoyed his freedom from marriage too much to consider that notion. She just wondered what was his gain in keeping her locked up, never touching her, and seemingly not interested in being close to her. Was it to keep her father in check? She supposes that was the reason she was a hostage bargain. Humming the sad lullaby, her eyes dimming, she began to unravel her hair, combing it as tears pooled in her eyes.

[the20thangel]

PEDRO PASCAL as GENERAL MARCUS ACACIUS Gladiator II | Official Trailer

[the20thangel]

"Pedro looks so out of place, he doesn't look like he belongs there." Shut up.

[the20thangel]

The Dragon and The Raven Chapter 16: The Vale

Chapter Summary: Aemma travels to the Vale to take Jaesys to safety. While Tensions rise in Raventree Hall, Dragonstone, and Kingslanding.

Word Count: 2.9k

Taglist: @poppyflower-22 @alastorhazbin @callsignwidow @whimsicalmystic02 @mercedesdecorazon @rhaenyrathecruelwithteats @ithilwen-blackwood

Masterlist

Aemma bittersweetly grinned as she soon caught sight of the Eyrie, knowing that she would soon have to leave her sweet boy there but happy that she could see her three youngest brothers and her lovely sister Rhaena. As she did one last lap before commanding Sliverwing to land, she saw a small group of people coming out to the clearing, ready to greet her and her son. As the Sliver she-dragon landed, she let out a shrill, warning the Vale men not to get too close to her rider and babe. Seasmoke soon landed next to a female dragon, letting out his shrill. 

The group consisted of Rhaena, Lady Jeyene, Joffrey, Aegon and Visery. As soon as Aemma jumped out of her dragon and walked a few feet away, Joffrey shouted in glee and ran toward his sister. Aemma’s heart lurched when she saw her youngest brother from her father, Laenor, crouched and opened an arm to receive her sweet boy. The princess maneuvered her brother so he would not crash into Jaesys. Holding onto each other, Aemma sobbingly inhaled her brother’s scent, burying her face in his dark curls. Little Joffrey held onto his sister; he knew Rhaena obviously loved them, but he missed Aemma the most. 

“You grew taller, Joff,” remarked Aemma as she allowed her brother to step back.

“Soon, I will be taller than you, sister!” exclaimed Joffrey excitedly, grinning at his sister before he noticed a babe in her arms. 

“Uh, Aemma, do you know you have a baby strapped to your chest?” Stared Joffrey dumbfounded. 

Aemma laughed at her brother’s question, her heart clenching, knowing that a part of her family didn’t think she had married, let alone was now a mother. How much a year can create changes? As Aemma acknowledged the rest of the group, Lady Jeyne decided that the rest of the conversation should be held inside the Castle. Leading her cousin's children back, Aemma quickly commanded both dragons to stay in the area. 

Once they entered the warming chamber, Aemma released Jaesys from the straps, which allowed the little babe to stretch out in delight, having been bound for hours in their journey. Aemma smiled at her son, watching as he took in his new surroundings with his purple eyes filled with curiosity. His attention quickly turned to a window where the little heir gave a gummy smile as he giggled, wiggling his arms in delight. Aemma turned expecting to see Seasmoke’s head but smiled brightly when she saw a Raven perched on the window. The Raven stared back at Jaesys before turning its attention to Aemma, bowing its head before flying off. 

Ben, Aemma thought fondly as she turned her attention to Lady Jeyne when the lady had asked about the Jaesys. 

“This is Jaesys, my son.” introduced Aemma as the whole group besides Aegon and Viserys gasped. 

“You’re married?” asked Rhaena, a little hurt that neither Aemma nor Baela ever wrote to her about such an occasion. 

Aemma grimaced, knowing she had unintentionally hurt her sister. 

“Yes, I married Lord Benjicot Blackwood, and a few months later, we welcomed our son Jaesys Blackwood… in honor… of  Jace..” Whispered Aemma, trying to keep herself from crying at the memory of her older brother. 

Joffrey sniffed as he pressed himself to Rhaena, who were both upset that they had missed the wedding and of Jacaerys’ death. 

“I’m sorry, but with this war going on so quickly, I haven’t had the time to write to both of you.” apologized Aemma. 

Rhaena nodded, weakly smiling, as she accepted her sister’s apology. She couldn’t be too angry with Aemma, knowing how the war was going and that Jace's death was so fresh.

Lady Jeyne decided to cut in, noticing Joffrey furrowing his brow. 

“What news from your mother and her allies?” 

“My mother is planning her siege on Kingslanding, and my father, Daemon, is planning to get rid of the kinslayer once and for all. I planned to help Daemon to defeat Aemond but needed to find a haven for Jaesys. Harrenhal will soon be a battlefield, and I cannot risk my son’s life…”

“Why not house him in Raventree Hall…why here?” cut in Jeyne, raising an eyebrow at the princess. 

Aemma frowned at the interruption but quickly schooling her face. She learned from Laenor to never let anyone, allies, or enemies see you unguarded. 

“Raventree Hall is not safely guarded at the moment, and with the Brackens declaring for the greens, it is unwise to leave my son there. I was hoping, my lady, if he can take refuge here with his dragon.” Aemma explained calmly, enjoying Lady Jeyne's eyes widening in shock. 

“His dragon?” questioned Jeyne, Rhaena and Joffrey. 

Aemma smiled as she caressed her son's cheeks, “ Yes, Jaesys has bonded with my late father’s dragon, Seasmoke. You saw him land beside mine. Allow my son to take refuge, and Seasmoke will stay here to guard the Eyrie from any potential danger.” 

Jeyne pondered momentarily before sighing and exclaiming that she would need to acquire more sheep before smiling at Aemma. 

“The Vale would be honored to be a Haven for little Jaesys and the remaining princes and princess. Will you be staying long?” 

Aemma frowned, turning downcast, “No, I am needed back urgently, but will I stay long enough to speak with my siblings and set up supplies for Jaesys.” 

Jeyne nodded before standing, asking for Aemma to pay her farewell before she left and left the chamber to give the dragon siblings a moment on their own. Rhaena took a seat next to Aemma, reaching for Jaesys. 

“He is quite handsome, isn’t he?” pondered Rhaena as she took the babe in her arms. 

Joffrey agreed as he stared at his nephew. Aemma smiled, looking over at her youngest siblings and beckoning them to come closer. 

“Yes, he looks more like his father each passing day. Aegon, Viserys, come here, little ones.” pleaded Aemma. 

Viserys grinned as he ran towards his older sister, and Aegon timidly walked closer. 

“Muna!” exclaimed Viserys. 

Making everyone, besides little Jaesys, freeze. Aemma grimaced as she weakly smiled at her baby brother. 

“No, sweet one, It is I, Aemma… your older sister, Muna, is in Dragonstone with our sister Baela,” explained Aemma as she combed her finger through his hair. 

Viserys momentarily looked at his sister, confused, before shrugging and returning to his toys. Aegon looked at his siblings before walking towards Aemma. 

“Aemma…. Does…does Muna still love us?” He asked nervously. 

Aemma’s heart broke as she gathered her brother into her arms. Kissing his crown and quickly reassuring him. 

“Oh, of course, sweet boy, Muna and Kepa are fighting the evil monsters that are hurting our family, but soon we will return home with our parents and be happy together again,” soothed Aemma. 

Aegon sniffed into his sister’s arms, and Joffrey came in to hug him from behind. 

“See, I told you Muna loves us; she just wants us to be safe. Now, Aemma has an important mission for us... We need to keep little Jaesys safe so we can all go home. Can you help me protect him, brother?” explained Joffrey, grinning as Aegon wiped his tears with determination.

“Kessa, I am a dragon, and dragons protect each other,” Aegon bravely stated. 

This made Joffrey, Rhaena, and Aemma laugh as Aegon continued to try to puff out his chest. Bittersweetly, Aemma passed out the letters from Daemon, reading the two meant for Viserys and Aegon. Then, soon, it was time for her to depart. 

Standing again in the clearing, Aemma hugged Rhaena, thanking her for being the best sister in the world. Who sniffed tearfully at the kind words. Aemma sobbed as she held her brothers, taking extra time with Joffrey as the two quickly mourned Lucerys and Jacaerys. She then wept as she kissed her babe goodbye, promising him that she would end this war soon so that he may come back to his parents' arms faster. 

She gave a watery grin as she climbed up her dragon. She glanced again before commanding Sliverwing to fly back towards Harrenhal, her heart clenching painfully with each wing stroke. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As Aemma entered the Riverlands, she quickly detoured to pass by Raventree Hall; he felt she needed to check her husband's lands before returning to Harenhal. As she rose higher in the sky to hide amongst the clouds, she saw yellow and black and red bunches towards the House Bracken and Blackwood boarders. 

“Dive Sliverwing, Dive.” 

Sliverwing shrieked as she followed her rider’s command and dove down fast towards the ground. Aemma changed her posture to lean forward, watching as the men all dove to the ground in fear and awe. Pulling at her reigns, Aemma rose Sliverwing a few feet away from the ground and turned back to where the men were. Horses whined in fright and ran away, leaving the Bracken men stranded as they tried to take out their swords. 

Landing Aemma, she glared at the men wearing yellow and red. Jumping down from her dragon, she walked towards them. 

“Good Sers, last I checked, the previous time Blackwoods and Brackens engaged with each other resulted in a bloody battle with mass casualties on both sides. I considered myself surprised to see such a similar sight.” 

Both sides nervously moved their gaze to the ground as a lone Blackwood knight gulped and walked forward. 

“My princess, we were just riding when we saw these Brackens riding further north from their borders…claiming that the pretender king gave them our land.” 

Aemma raised an unimpressed brow as she turned to the Bracken men.

“What say you?” asked Aemma, her glare growing as one of them dared to rake his disgusting eyes over her body. 

“The Blackwoods are traitors claiming for your whore mother. King Aegon promised us riches, and we pledge our loyalty to him; perhaps we should present you as a gift after we have our way with you.” taunted a Bracken knight, grinning evilly at Aemma. 

The Blackwoods raised their swords as the Brackens dared to stalk towards Aemma. They all halted in fear when Sliverwing stalked behind Aemma, screaming at the Brackens, who all paled and quickly backed away. 

“You are disgusting pigs are exactly like Aegon, weak, entitled, thinking they are better than everyone. Taking liberties with things that do not belong to them… It seems that a good Bracken is a dead Bracken. Sliverwing Drac-” 

Before Aemma could finish her command, the Brackens ran away, not wanting to be burnt alive by dragon fire. Watching the red and yellow colors fade into the background, Aemma returned to her men. 

“Thank you, my princess.” thanked a Blackwood knight as they bowed to her. 

Aemma smiled, “Sers, please start cutting down trees, even those closer to Bracken land, and start creating a wall. I would like to return to my future home in peace and free from any pesky Brackens. If you need any gold, send a letter, and I shall arrange the resources from Harrenhal.” 

The Blackwood knights grinned, remembering the sweet, caring, fierce princess that won over their lord’s heart. 

“Yes, my princess!” shouted the knights as they watched her climb back onto her dragon and soar back into the sky. 

Aemma passed by the castle, ensuring everything was well from the sky before she decided her future home was safe enough to fly back to Harrenhal. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Baela was walking towards her grandmother’s room, her arms around her midsection, which was starting to swell. Caressing her stomach, Baela ached for Aemma, wishing her sister was here to guide her through her pregnancy. Jacaerys’ wish to give Jaesys a cousin is being fulfilled, but it also makes the hole in her heart more significant each day. Knowing that her love will never meet their child rips apart her heart. Rhaenyra was tearful but overjoyed that a part of Jace had been left in the world. Lately, however, the queen has been secluding herself in her rooms, only allowing a few to enter, one of whom is Mysaria. Baela did not trust that woman but was too tired to pay close attention to the white wyrm and her actions towards the queen. As she passed her good mother’s rooms, she heard whispers coming from inside; ever curious, she pressed her ear to the door, hoping to listen. 

“My queen, we need to go ahead with the siege on Kingslanding; no matter what Daemon does, take this opportunity for you.” 

“I want my daughter away from there; Daemon has broken my trust and hers for the last time. To think he has been betraying me with that girl Nettles. How…why would he do this…” 

Baela was shocked; she didn’t even think her father knew who Nettles was, but she also didn’t want to believe her father would disgrace them by taking a lover, not when he had declared how much he adored their queen. 

“He matters not. I will send a letter to your good-son. He will ease the news to your daughter and convince her to fly to Kingslanding.” 

“I want that girl's head… I want her removed from Sheepstealer and her erased.” 

“It shall be done, my Queen.” 

Baela gasped as she quickly left and went towards the courtyard. There, she saw Nettles trained with the Hull—no, the Velayron brothers. Once the three noticed the princess, they all paused their training and bowed towards her. 

“Netty, you must leave…” started Baela, ensuring no one had followed her from inside the castle. 

Nettles was surprised and shared a worried look with Adam and Alyn. 

“Princess, I don’t understand; leave where?” questioned Nettles growing worried. 

“Nettles, the queen… the queen has been made to believe that you and my father, Daemon, are having an affair. Tell me it is not true..” explained Baela, gasping for air. 

Nettles paled as she shook her head, “No, never. I have not even spoken once with the King Consort, let alone have an affair! I need to tell the queen it is not true…” 

Baela shook her head, “No! She has made up her mind to have your head. She will not listen to you, I fear… I fear Jace’s death has affected her greatly. You need to leave quickly!” 

Nettles started crying, heartbroken that her queen, whom she had served faithfully, wanted to kill her. “Where… where will I go,” she asked heartbrokenly. 

Baela thought before answering, quickly glancing again to see if any knight was coming to arrest the brown-haired girl. 

“Essos, go to the free cities; you will be safe there, but before you go, I want you to send a letter to Aemma. The queen is sending a letter to Harrenhal stating that Daemon has betrayed us; take my letter to her. I will explain everything and then fly to a friend in Pentos, and he will house you.” 

Nettles sniffed heartbrokenly as she agreed, running towards Sheepstealer and waiting for Baela to come back with a letter. As She waited, she looked at her surroundings in fear. 

After what seemed forever, Baela came back with both Alyn and Adam. 

“Sorry, the castle is in chaos, looking for you. Adam and Alyn will fly with you towards Harrenhal and return. I will use the excuse that Adam saw you going there before losing you. After giving Aemma the letter, go as fast as possible to Essos; stay clear from Dragonstone or Kingslanding. Here is some gold; it should help you for a while. I’m so sorry Netty…I wish you the best.” apologized Baela, rubbing her swell and trying to calm her nerves. 

Nettles sobbed, thanking Baela as she and the brothers climbed on Sheepstealer and Grey Ghost. Waving goodbye and thanking the dragon princess again, they fled towards the Riverlands, unsure what the future would bring them.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Back in Kingslanding, Larys Strong walked out of the. Aemond made up his mind and went towards Harrenhal to engage with Daemon. As Larys walked towards the courtyard, a servant brought a letter for him. Thanking the maid, he opened it and read its contents. Rhaenyra was coming to Kingslanding. Gulping, Larys looked for Aemond, only to pale seeing the Prince leaving the gates towards his dragon. Larys threw away the letter. He had a duty to serve the king. Aemond was only Prince Regent; Aegon was still king, so Larys knew his duty was to protect him and Prince Maelor, the new heir. 

Walking to the king's chambers, he was greeted with a pitiful sight. The Maesters were placing a wooded club to see if, with the assistance of the club, the king would be able to walk, but unfortunately, it hadn’t worked and instead only caused him pain. 

“Perhaps, is that enough for one day, maester? The King cannot become better if he is constantly in pain.” Larys coolly explained, but he was actually filled with urgency.  

Maester slowly agreed, helped the King back onto the bed, and left the room, leaving Larys alone with the king. 

“What…do …you... Want…clubfoot.” gasped Aegon.

“Rhaenyra is coming…we need to get you and Prince Maelor out of Kingslanding quickly,” explained Larys, confused when Aegon laughed. 

“My whore of a sister will just be killed…Aemond…”

“Prince Ameond has left, my king.” interrupted Larys before continuing. “ He went to fight Daemon…and Rhaenyra is coming with at least three full-grown dragons. We only have Sunfyre, who is injured and cannot defend Kingslanding. Please, my king, we must leave soon for your safety.” 

Aegon pondered in pain before reluctantly agreeing, allowing Larys to help him off the bed. Biting his tongue in pain, Aegon left with Larys, ready to escape his home and cursing his half-sister for making him flee.