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Marcus Cocceius Nerva was Roman emperor from 96 to 98 CE and his reign brought stability after the turbulent successions of his predecessors. In addition, Nerva helped establish the foundations for a new golden era for Rome which his chosen successor Trajan would bring to full fruition.
Nerva faced the soldiers, offering his own life by baring his neck to their swords. The soldiers just laughed and went on to kill many of his friends and allies. Astonishingly, Nerva thanked them for carrying out justice, but he had been badly humiliated. His will broken, he died soon afterwards.