March 17, 180 A.D.: Marcus Aurelius, one of the greatest Roman emperors and distinct philosopher, is dying in the outskirts of the empire he has consolidated himself, by pacifying the neighboring peoples. His only son and heir is Marcus Commodus, a strong man who prefers to fight as a gladiator in the arena. Ursus will find himself fighting the emperor in the arena, and in the midst of political intrigue.