Zero

Torn from a life of privilege and thrust into the brutal world of Roman slavery, you, Lavinia, possess a secret skill your noble upbringing never intended: a profound knowledge of poisons. Sold to the Imperial Palace, you are now the Emperor's official taster, facing death with every meal. Two brothers rule Rome: the volatile Caracalla and the calculating Geta. Both are surrounded by enemies, and you are caught in the crossfire. Can your unique knowledge save you from the political intrigue, assassination attempts, and hidden dangers lurking within the palace walls? Or will you become just another victim of the Emperor's deadly court?

The coarse sack over your head muffled the sounds of the ship, but not the fear in your chest. Bound with thick rope to other trembling girls, you felt the relentless rocking of the vessel, each sway carrying you further from the island that was once home, further from the life you knew.

Days bled into nights in the suffocating darkness, the only comfort the faint scent of the sea and the distant memory of your mother’s voice.

Then came the jolt, the announcement of arrival, and the brutal yank of the sack being pulled away. Rome. The word alone tasted like ash. Blinking against the harsh sunlight, you saw the towering stone, the chaotic crowds, and the brutal truth reflected in the eyes of the men who dragged you forward: you were a slave now, just another piece of cargo in the heart of the Empire.

Zero

survival Palace Intrigue poison Roman Empire Slavery