I am Lucius Sergius Catalina and I have just been arrested for treason. How can I prove that I am not trying to overthrow the Republic?

by mankiller27

So, my plot to depose Cicero is kinda failing right now. Can I salvage it? How can I convince the Senate that I am not a traitor.

MarcusTullius_Cicero

Cataline, you dog! The fact that you have the nerve to show your face on the forum, to walk among the very citizens that would have burned to ashes were it not for my patriotism for uncovering your repulsive plot, only gives more weight to my words! It does not, however, surprise me to find you cowardly begging for help like a panicked old hag, slivering in the dirt of the earth - my gods, may Jupiter bear witness to the wickedness of this wretch! Here, I have a little fresco of today's session for you - me in my highest, you in your lowest moment.

See you in the Senate, Catiline - I have prepared a word or two to present against you in the trial. Game is on.

RobWithOneB

Well, fleeing Rome for that military camp in Etruria was probably a bad move. Kind of makes Cicero's accusations look true, y'know? Even if you manage to take Rome, you're screwed when Pompey heads back from the east. Right now I would recommend either a noble suicide or glorious death on the battlefield.