Rome, 44 AD. As a result of a senate conspiracy, the Great Caesar dies. The Senate has not yet learned of the Emperor's will, in which he proclaims his nephew Octavius as his successor. Although he is only 17 years old, Octavius is ready to take the helm of the Great Empire. Yet, after a nearly successful conspiracy, he, miraculously surviving, is forced to go into hiding. Only his guardian remains, the former gladiator Tiranius, the only loyal servant.