The niece of Julia Domna, Julia Mamaea was suggested to be a strong woman who helped to guide her young son, Severus Alexander, in affairs of state. Severus came to the throne at the tender age of 12 and Mamaea was the strength he needed at a time when the empire was still reeling from the strange antics of his cousin and former emperor Elagabalus. As emperor Severus brought normality back to the Empire but his lack of military experience left him in a compromising position. From historical references it appears that Severus was a good son when married to Orbiana a good husband. It was unfortunate that Orbiana and Mamaea seemed to not like one another. Mamaea helped to dispose of the young and beautiful Orbiana and continued in the role of protector, confident and likely “quasi-ruler” of the empire. Ever tied together in life, Severus and Mamaea died embraced, butchered by the praetorian guard.