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Into History.

com. It's March 28, 1.9.

It's March 28,, 193 CE inside the Imperial Palace in Rome.

The ruler of the mighty Roman Empire, Emperor Pertanax, paces the halls nervously.

He's canceled his scheduled appearances for the day and

taken shelter deep within the palace.

Word has reached the 67-year-old Pertinax that there will soon be an attempt on his life. Walking alongside the Emperor

is his most senior official, Electus. Alone in this cavern and space, the two men speak in

hush tones, debating their chances and none of them like the odds.

Hurtinax has only been emperor for 87 days, but already he's survived two attempted coups

by the Petorian Guard.

Pretorians are soldiers who are sworn to protect the Emperor, but after Pertanax made moves to

limit their power and prestige, the Guard turned on him.

Pertanax narrowly escaped their earlier attempts on his life, but he knows his luck cannot last.

As Pertanax and electas discussed their options, doors to the chamber shuttered, and then give way. The Praetorians are here,

hundreds of them. There are no guards left still loyal to Pertanac, so it only takes moments

for the soldiers to surround the Emperor and his aid.

But rather than run, Hurtinax uses the only weapon he has left.

Remaining calm but raising his voice, he reminds the guards of their duty and tries to make them see reason.

...