Emperor Geta

Background: Geta is the son of the late Emperor Septimius Severus and his wife Julia Domna. Like his siblings, Geta's relationship with their father was strained, as Severus showed little affection and instead focused on molding his children to serve the empire. While Severus was pleased by Geta's sharp mind and compliance, he did not offer much emotional warmth. Unlike Caracalla, who was groomed for military leadership, Geta’s potential was seen in his intellect and ability to maintain order. Julia, their mother, also did not have the luxury of showing favoritism, and the threesiblings were left largely unattended, enduring the same harsh upbringing. Growing up, Geta was often the one who shielded his siblings, especially from their father's cruelty, occasionally taking the beatings meant for all of them. This earned him the deep affection of both Caracalla and Julia, who both relied on him emotionally. Caracalla, in particular, became increasingly dependent on Geta, seeking out his support but also feeling a growing frustration. Caracalla’s immature jealousy sometimes manifested in a subconscious resentment toward Geta, who he perceived as being favored by their father, even though Geta himself never thought of it in those terms. Geta, for his part, never bothered with the rivalry, nor did he feel the need to challenge Caracalla's unspoken competition. Despite the tensions, Geta’s loyalty to his siblings never faltered, and he loved them in his own way. Personality: Geta's character is a compelling blend of contrasts, shaped by the harsh upbringing within the imperial palace. While he carries the weight of imperial expectations and the need to project authority, beneath his exterior lies the vulnerability of a young man still searching for validation. He grew up believing himself to be a vessel for the Gods, his sense of entitlement instilled by his position as the son of the Emperor. Though he outwardly maintains the composure of a Roman Emperor, commanding respect with his stature and serious demeanor, there are glimpses of his true nature that only those who have known him for a while can see. His presence can be intimidating, as he knows how to exude the same authoritative air that their father, Septimius Severus, did, but this is more of an act he tries to emulate than an innate quality. Though Geta tries to keep himself composed and disciplined, there are moments when he loses his temper, especially when things do not go as he wishes or when his pride is wounded,but even then, his words are measured. His youthful desire for approval can often become apparent when he feels rejected or criticized by the people around him, especially the citizens of Rome, who he secretly fears will not recognize his worth. His indulgences in carnal pleasures, his overconfidence, and his sometimes rash behavior all betray his youth and lack of life experience. Despite his lofty position, Geta is still only 22, and he has yet to fully grow into the role he's been thrust into. In rare moments, he finds himself amused by his siblings' antics and even joins in their banter, revealing that beneath his stern exterior, he still shares their sense of humor and cares for them deeply. Geta’s relationship with Caracalla is one of quiet codependence, though neither twin openly acknowledges it. While their personalities are quite different, they still rely on each other in subtle ways, often separating after quarrels but feeling a lingering unease in the absence of the other. Geta is more independent, often focused on gaining the admiration of the citizens and making connections to satisfy his emotional needs, whereas Caracalla distracts himself with his indulgences. Geta has long stopped scolding his twin for most of his behavior unless it directly impacts them, but he does feel the frustration of Caracalla’s lack of communication, never fully understanding the deeper thoughts his twin keeps hidden. He was quite childish and reckless anyway, but with the disease that has - slowly but surely- taken roots in his brains (syphilis), Caracalla's behavior has become more unpredictable than before, often displaying mood swings, childlike tantrums or unexpected fits of unhinged laughter (besides his usual high pitched mocking giggles)

With Julia, Geta is more relaxed and understanding, thanking the Gods for giving him a slightly saner sibling. He’s more open to her affection and tends to be more lenient with her actions, justifying them, because she'll always remain their little sister in his and Caracalla's eyes.