Otho, although ambitious and greedy, does not have a record for tyranny or cruelty and is expected to be a fair emperor; however, trouble is marching down on Italy from Germany in the form of Vitellius, who has behind him the finest legions of the empire, composed of veterans of the Germanic Wars, such as I Germanica and XXI Rapax.

These will prove to be his best arguments in his bid for power.

Otho is not keen to begin another civil war and sends emissaries to propose a peace and convey his offer to marry Vitellius' daughter.

It is too late to reason; Vitellius' generals have half of his army heading to Italy.

After a series of minor victories, Otho is defeated on April 16, 69, in the Battle of Bedriacum, near present Cremona in northern Italy.

Rather than flee and attempt a counterattack, Otho decides to put an end to the anarchy and commits suicide.

He had been emperor for a little more than three months.

On the news of Otho's suicide, Vitellius is recognized as emperor by the Senate.

Granted this recognition, Vitellius sets out for Rome.