No, really, I just don't generally like Russell Crowe. He doesn't do it for -- ooo, arms.
One of a Thousand RoadsThis is not the way it happened. (Maximus/Commodus, explicit)
This story is extremely AU. I have to confess that I've only seen bits and pieces of the movie and read a transcript; I'm leery of actually watching it for various reasons. So this is largely based on visual inspiration (speaking of which, many many thanks to
destina) and has a deliberately reimagined version of Commodus. I'd be interested to know how it works for people who have seen the movie.
Feedback always appreciated.