The Queen's Emerald: The Iungetellus Chronicles, #1

By Cristiana-Maria Pavel

In Axella's world, the pirates' existence is as old as the land and the sea. The attacks directed at trade ships or harbors are the only events that disturb the peaceful life on the continent of Iungetellus.

Axella has had contact with pirates only through rumors or during their attempts to rob Portus Avorum, the city where she lives.

Until the moment when, during such an attack, Axella's brother, Maximinus, manages what few ever could: to face the most famous pirate in history - the feared Calogerus - and force him to retreat.

Not long after this, Calogerus' people kidnap Maximinus and Axella's mother, asking for a ransom that's almost impossible to obtain - the Queen's Emerald, a treasure hidden in the heart of a realm in Bazanthos, the continent east of Iungetellus.

Before their time runs out, Axella and Maximinus must venture from one continent to the other to steal one of the most precious possessions of the realm of Eratrix.

Faithful friends will support them, unexpected enemies will try to undermine them, and their mission will bring to light truths that will change their lives and the world they know forever.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Cristiana-Maria Pavel
• Release date: Jan 20, 2022
• ISBN: 9798201654085

Cristiana-Maria Pavel

Cristiana-Maria Pavel è una scrittrice rumena con una passione per leggere e scrivere romanzi di fantasia. Laureata in informatica e programmatrice, è sempre stata affascinata dall'idea di creare mondi e personaggi, e raccontare le loro storie. Nel suo tempo libero, le piace andare al cinema, imparare lingue straniere e passare il tempo con il suo gatto e i suoi due cani. Per scoprire di più, segue @cristiana.m.pavel su Instragram.

Book preview

Chapter 1

A ren’t Monica and Cassia going to join us? Junia asked. Today was our turn to host breakfast.

Cassia told me yesterday that her father comes back from Eratrix today. She and Monica are preparing the house for his arrival, Axella answered her great-grandmother.

We’re all invited to dinner tonight, Sabina announced, stepping into the dining room and sitting next to her grandmother. Has your brother not woken up yet?

Sitting with her back to one of the dining room’s three windows, Sabina had an angelical appearance. Her golden hair was soaked in the morning’s sunlight, which flew down her neck and threw upon her face shadows which gave her features a note of mystery.

Axella’s breath stopped in her chest. It seemed impossible to conceive that she had inherited Sabina’s features.

I didn’t notice any movement in his bedroom when I came downstairs. He’s probably tired. It was past midnight when I heard him come back home last night.

A book must be truly good if it determines a young woman to let her face be painted with dark circles, Junia remarked, a joyful twinkle in her glance.

Sabina had inherited her grandmother’s light-colored eyes, but while Sabina’s eyes were a green so bright it was impossible to forget, Junia’s eyes were somewhere around the border line between green and blue.

It’s the second time I read it, Axella confirmed. Actually, I should pass by the bookstore today, see what new titles they have. My bookshelves need a refreshing.

You’re in luck. Just yesterday, the harbor welcomed a ship filled with books, so many of them they might not fit inside the city’s bookstore.

Maximinus appeared in the dining room, walking briskly. Only the dark circles under his eyes and the slight pallor of his face betrayed the tiredness he had accumulated lately. For over a week, Axella heard her twin brother coming home late at night - and she knew it could mean nothing good.

The position of captain in the royal fleet of Portus Avorum obliged Maximinus to ensure the city’s security against any threat coming from the sea - which meant daily patrols along the coast, control of any suspicious ship and defending the harbor from attacks.

Axella had learned over time that, if her brother had to spend his nights at sea, it was because pirates were making their presence felt nearby.

The thought of Maximinus facing the sea thieves made Axella’s stomach twist. The sudden nausea made her lose all interest in the food on her plate.

Good morning, ladies. Maximinus bent to lay a kiss on each one of their heads before taking his usual seat at the table, next to Axella and before Junia.

Despite being twins, Axella and Maximinus didn’t share the same features - his hair was black and his eyes were brown. No matter how hard she’d tried, Axella had never found any resemblance to their mother or great-grandmother on his face.

So, Silvanus is coming back today. Should I see this as an opportunity for us to gorge on the treats coming out of Monica’s hands?

Exactly, Junia confirmed.

After closing the tailoring shop, we’ll head directly for their home, Sabina announced.

Cassia was so excited yesterday, I doubt she’ll be able to focus on working today. If it were possible to keep the bakery closed for one day, I believe she’d have spent the entire day in the harbor, waiting.

Next to Axella, Maximinus tensed.

I’d rather you all stayed away from the harbor these days. Reports have arrived from Segestra concerning the attacks of pirates against their ports. If they’re about to strike in Portus Avorum too, I’d rather none of you was exposed. Warn Monica and Cassia.

I’d rather you weren’t exposed either, Sabina said.

You can’t be the only ones who work in this family, Maximinus fought back. And I can’t imagine myself doing anything else. The sea is my calling, mother, and I must serve it.

Sabina glanced towards the window, but before her eyes fell on the small garden beyond the glass, they met Junia’s. Axella had seen the same picture before - each time she had the feeling the two women were exchanging words no one should hear.

After a moment of heavy silence, Junia lifted her tea cup.

For the courage of following your dreams! For brave hearts and those who possess them!

Axella lifted her own cup, thankful for her great-grandmother’s presence of mind and for everything they were together.

It was one of those rare morning when time allowed Maximinus to accompany them to the tailoring shop. They had finished breakfast one half an hour earlier than usual, so they didn’t have to hurry. The route to the center of the city was a welcomed walk.

Portus Avorum was awake, the streets filled with people coming out of their houses or heading towards their daily affairs. Axella insatiably absorbed the noises surrounding them, the perfumes left behind by the ladies who passed them by, the delicious smells pouring in the street through the open window of some kitchen and glanced attentively at the houses they passed by, as well as the faces and outfits of the people they crossed paths with.

Although it was morning, the end-of-July sun was pretty hot.

You’re looking around as though you just set foot in the city for the first time, Maximinus remarked on an amused tone.

This way, no path will ever be boring.

Maximinus blinked twice before smiling.

I’ll keep that in mind.

Few things compared to the satisfaction of teaching her older brother something. Older by a quarter of an hour, surely, but still older. At least that’s what Maximinus kept reminding her.

Sabina’s tailoring shop was located in the center of the city, facing the governor’s residence.

The building before which they now stood, waiting for Junia to unlock the door, had costed Sabina a fortune, money won in many years of work. She’d bought it four years before, when Axella was fifteen, and it had turned out to be a successful investment, for Sabina had since managed to gain three times the amount paid for the property.

The building’s placement offered a major advantage for any shopkeeper - visibility. After the city’s market, the city center was the busiest place of Portus Avorum, which helped Sabina reach more clients daily than she would’ve ever been able to attract in the old location, a rented house on one of the city’s northern streets.

Junia opened the tailoring shop’s door wide.

On the floor, there were pots containing different houseplants whose names Axella couldn’t remember, discreetly placed in the corners or in places where they wouldn’t hinder. Sabina was a great lover of plants and she cared for them with the same devotion she’d raised her children with.

Before you leave, Maximinus, go to the attic and bring the chest you find there downstairs, please, Sabina asked before proceeding to glance satisfyingly around the room - the look of someone who’d materialized their ideals with their bare hands.

At your orders, captain. Maximinus smiled broadly as he went up the stairs in the middle of the room.

I’ll bring down the dresses we have to deliver today, Axella offered.

I’ll open the windows upstairs.

Axella offered her arm to her great-grandmother as they climbed the stairs, but Junia only lifted her chin and cast Axella an offended glance as she passed her by. As she went up, Axella watched her mother open the notebook where she kept every day’s appointments.

Tailoring’s always been mother’s life, hasn’t it? Axella whispered as she opened the window overlooking the street behind the building. The fresh air caressed her cheeks at the same time as the rumor of the street tickled her ears. The sounds of the city’s usual life fascinated her.

Beside you and your brother, there’s never been anything able to bring her such joy.

Junia was filling the table with clean parchment ready to be filled with sketches. Her hands’ movements were certain, precise, movements which betrayed years of experience. In the morning light, her gray hair shone silver. Although she’d recently turned seventy six, the wrinkles on her face and her gray hair were the only things giving away Junia’s age.

Maximinus was coming down from the attic, carrying a huge chest in his arms.

I bet there are metals lighter than lace.

Oh, you’d be amazed. Junia looked at him with a mix of amusement and affection.

A single chest, mother? Maximinus asked, as he went down the stairs to the ground floor. You usually exploit me more when you catch me around here.

Axella followed him, hoping the heap of silk, veil and lace made up by the dresses she carried would stifle her chuckles.

Sabina was standing behind her desk next to the stairs, browsing the huge notebook where she kept track of all the sales and purchases of the tailoring shop. Lifting her eyes from the small writing, she crossed her arms before her chest.

I’d love to exploit you more, son, but sadly, those are the last fabrics we have. Silvanus is going to bring me new ones.

Speaking of ships and fabrics, I have to leave. I’d say I’ll see you at dinner, buy I can’t guarantee that.

Take care of yourself, son.

Maximinus stepped out the door and passed before the front window, soon disappearing from Axella’s sight.

Sabina clapped her hands, the sound resounding stridently in the ample space.

All right, ladies. Let’s get down to work.

Axella had just taken a client’s measures and was walking her downstairs, Junia was tailoring a dress for the client who had just left and Sabina was collecting the money from a third woman when Monica, followed closely by Cassia, appeared in the shop. They were carrying trays filled with different pastries which left a trail of inviting smell behind themselves. Although she had eaten her fill at breakfast, Axella’s stomach protested as though she hadn’t eaten anything all day.

Both Cassia and Monica were wearing dressed made by Sabina.

Monica loved fashion and, like all the women who’d ever stepped in Sabina’s tailoring shop, she hadn’t wanted to wear anything but her creations ever since.

Monica put the tray on Sabina’s office and turned to face her. Her long, brown hair fell on her back and her eyes were blue like a clear sky.

We wanted to make up for letting you down this morning.

Axella reached the ground floor as Cassia laid the second tray next to the other one. She turned at the same time as Axella headed for her and pulled her in a tight embrace.

The sun reflected in her brown hair and a charming light shone in her black eyes.

We prepared the house until late at night, so it was pretty difficult for us to wake up this morning, Cassia explained with a wide smile that erased any trace of tiredness.

Four months had passed since Silvanus had left for Eratrix and Cassia had missed him from the second he’d left Portus Avorum.

I’d accept such apology at any time, Junia said, sprinting down the stairs behind them and making directly for the pastry-filled trays.

Axella was convinced she’d inherited the love for food from her great-grandmother.

Monica owned a bakery next to the tailoring shop and managed it together with her daughter. After carrying out their activities in different areas of the city for years, Monica had relocated her bakery in the center of the city when Sabina had decided to move. It wasn’t out of common for Monica and Cassia to bring them treats during the days when the tailoring shop was so full they even forgot to eat and Sabina made them dresses whenever they needed.

At the same time as Junia, everyone fell upon the pastries.

Minutes later, the client Sabina has just collected money from was wiping the jam from her fingers with a handkerchief.

I’ve lived in Fidantis for some years, but I’ve never eaten anything so good. Not even at the king’s court!

I’m not sure it’s all right to say such a thing, but thank you! Monica answered with a smile, and the air filled with laughter.

Oh, God! the women whose measures Axella had taken exclaimed. A good friend of mine is about to move to the capital these days and she’s in great need for some new dresses in order to present herself at the royal court. I’ve been visiting her the past days and told her about you, Sabina. She could host you in her home for as long as needed, if you agreed to help her.

An anticipating silence fell as all the eyes were fixed on Sabina.

Axella’s heart was beating fast. She could go with her mother. She’d never left her hometown and the thought of seeing the most important city in Agradalis, of presenting herself at the royal court, even through some dresses was dazzling.

The offer is flattering, and I thank you for your trust, but I can’t abandon the tailoring shop and leave.

Axella didn’t realize she was holding her breath until it escaped her chest in disappointment.

The client who’d made the offer seemed to feel the same way.

I understand, of course. Yet, the offer will be available for a few days, so if you change your mind, let me know, all right?

For sure.

From her mother’s glance, Axella understood there would be no change of mind.

You should accept, Sabina, Cassia suggested. It could be an opportunity to extend your business. The clients in the capital would certainly pay much better than the ones here. We could take care of the tailoring shop and your clients would surely understand a few weeks’ absence. After all, you’ve never had a vacation. Not since I know you, at least.

Sabina laughed, but it was a tense laughter.

I’m happy with my clients in this city.

Monica entwined her arm with her daughter’s and dragged her gently towards the door.

We should go back to the bakery. Clients will start to gather up and I don’t know if the boy we’ve hired to help us with the sales can manage on his own. We’ll see each other at home tonight.

The edifice where Gaius Quinctilius worked as the Admiral of Portus Avorum was the place where everything regarding the maritime life of the city was resolved - thievery happening in the harbor, payment of taxes by the merchants who brought merchandise in the port, reports of the presents of pirates close by or of their attacks on trade routes.

Maximinus knocked on the door before him and waited for permission to enter.

Inside, Gaius was sitting at his desk, frowning his thick eyebrows at the papers he was holding. He started speaking immediately after Maximinus stepped into the room.

Another two merchants have reported pirate attacks. One of them lost a third of his merchandise in their hands. One of the ships belonging to the second merchant was sunk and he couldn’t recover any member of the crew.

Such somber news had been clouding each one of their mornings for a few weeks. It was summer, the most auspicious season for the pirates’ attacks. It was during this time that the most ships sailed along the known trade routes, now was the time for pirates to steal everything they could in order to be able to survive the following winter, when trade would slow down drastically.

I understand.

Also, the attacks are reported closer to the shore each time. You know what that means.

Maximinus nodded. Only three weeks before, Portus Ares had been attacked. The city was located not very far south from Portus Avorum.

We’re preparing for an attack.

Gaius put the papers on the desk and fixed Maximinus with his rough black eyes. The eyes of a man who’d spent decades on the sea and had seen perhaps more than he would’ve liked. Maximinus didn’t know the precise age of Gaius, but he couldn’t be too old - his son, Faustus, was only two years older than Maximinus. No white hair had yet appeared in the admiral’s black hair.

You’ve been a good soldier and you’re a good captain, Maximinus. I would’ve never offered you the position of captain in the king’s fleet had I not been certain of your qualities. But you must be aware of one thing. The enemies we’re facing now do not compare those we’ve confronted before. From the descriptions we’ve received, we’re talking about Calogerus.

A shiver passed down Maximinus’ spine. Calogerus was a legend - a feared one. None of those who crossed paths with him got away without loss. Few got to personally confront him and live to speak about it.

Go downstairs and find my son. Prepare the crew and check that everything be all right. Wait for me before going out to sea.

As you command.

Maximinus couldn’t shake off the restlessness that had grasped him and he hated it - he felt it was crushing the foundation of the confidence he’d built in years of work and training. If Gaius was going out to sea with them to patrol the shore, then the enemy they were waiting for was truly fearful and strong enough for Gaius to consider they wouldn’t manage on their own.

He found Faustus before the front door. The black hair, longer than his father’s, fell over his ears and the back of his head. He had fine features, inherited from his mother, which hadn’t yet been toughened by the profession he’d chosen. His black eyes, unquestionably his father’s, betrayed intelligence and humor, and his experience at sea hadn’t yet put a mark on his glance.

They were young and full of hope and thinking of how vulnerable this made them before a man like Calogerus horrified Maximinus.

Where were you? Your father couldn’t track you down.

I was checking the ship as the good second I am.

Maximinus laughed, embarrassed. Although he was two years younger than Faustus, he’d been advanced to the captain position before him. And although Faustus had never showed any resentment, Maximinus still felt awkwardness and regret every time he had to give commands his friend.

Gaius told me to wait for him. He’s going to go out to sea with us today.

Maximinus felt relief, seeing the panic that shone in Faustus’ eyes before he managed to hide it under a joyful glance.

Did he finally realize how irresponsible we actually are?

Apparently, we’re not prepared enough to scare Calogerus off.

Faustus displayed an offended look as they headed for the harbor.

The ships were occupying the whole space, almost all of them belonging to local merchants.

The western coast of Agradalis, Litus Minor, was the place where trade with the rest of the continent took place.

Litus Aeneus, the Bronze Coast, where Portus Avorum was located, served for the external trade.

Rarely did it happen for a merchant from Bazanthos to reach Portus Avorum. Most of them preferred Segestra, the realm in the south of Iungetellus which had managed to establish more trade links with the east than all the other realms together, as a destination.

Most of the time, merchandise from Bazanthos reached Agradalis directly only if local merchants ventured on the other continent and back.

They’d almost reached the ship Maximinus commanded when a familiar voice made them turn around.

Blasius, the son of the governor of Portus Avorum, was heading towards them. The wind blew his brown hair back and forth, but he didn’t seemed bothered.

Don’t you think it’s a little late to still be on land? My father has already been making me work for two hours.

Why did he allow you to honor us with your presence during working hours?

To give you these. Blasius took two parchment scrolls out of the inner pocket of his vest and handed them to Maximinus and Faustus.

Maximinus opened the scroll and read the content quickly.

Your father is organizing a birthday party for you again?

Blasius rolled his eyes.

The perfect occasion to gather a great deal of people with the sole purpose of bragging to them about the perfect offspring he conceived twenty years ago.

Faustus averted his eyes from the scroll to look at Blasius.

If it’s about food, drinks and dance, count me in. But I warn you, I might not be too impressed by your father’s bragging. After all, I know his offspring for real.

Maximinus grinned.

I couldn’t miss such a thing.

It’s a deal. You can bring anybody along.

It was one of the few occasions when Maximinus saw Blasius smiling genuinely, when his smile reached his green eyes. It was a relieved smile.

I should leave now. Go back to my honorable responsibilities.

This city wouldn’t function as well as it does without your efforts! Faustus shouted after Blasius, attracting some glances from the nearby people.

Blasius shook his head in exasperation but didn’t look back.

Chapter 2

It was eight o’clock in the evening when the last client left the tailoring shop.

As in any year, from the beginning of June, the ladies of Portus Avorum piled up in the tailoring shop in order to refresh their summer wardrobe.

Now that July was coming to an end, the wave of clients would drop, offering them a more relaxed period until the end of September, when the weather would change again.

For Monica, though, all the three months of summer were just as demanding, since people took advantage of the late sunsets to wander about the city at the end of the day, which meant the bakery had clients until late everyday.

That evening, still, the bakery would close early.

Let’s take the route that passes by the port, Cassia suggested once the lights were off and the doors were locked. If father’s ships have already arrived, we could see them.

All right, then. Monica smiled.

Maximinus’ warning from that morning passed through Axella’s mind, but she didn’t dare to speak about it. She hadn’t seen Cassia so happy in months.

With the fabrics from Eratrix, we’ll be able to honor all the orders until the end of autumn.

Sabina’s voice resounded surprisingly clear in the space between the buildings in the center of the city. Axella needed a few moments to realize why: they were the only people there, while during other evenings, the space would’ve been crowded with locals willing to rejoice the pleasant evening air.

I can’t wait to see what textures and colors he brings this time, Monica added.

Sabina had moved to Portus Avorum months before giving birth to her children. She’d rented a house in the city, where she’d also carried out her activity as a tailor. Three years later, when her business had started to take off, Sabina had bought the house they lived in now, keeping the rented house exclusively as a tailoring shop. Living across the street from Monica and Silvanus, she’d learned that the latter traded the renowned fabrics produced in Eratrix.

Shortly after she’d started making business with him, Sabina had met Silvanus’ wife, Monica. Their families had been inseparable ever since.

For how long will your father stay in the city this time? Axella asked Cassia.

Their mothers were walking a few steps before them, immersed in a conversation that didn’t reach Axella’s ears. Her heart warmed up when she saw Sabina smile. Junia was walking by the two girls in silence. Axella’s great-grandmother had a special admiration for sunsets and savored the way back home in the evening completely.

Until September, when he’ll make a short voyage to the east of Segestra. I was hoping I could convince him to take me along, but with the attacks that have happened there recently, I believe all I’m left to do is take my chances next year.

Maximinus must’ve still been in the harbor, patrolling the shore, and he would probably not be able to celebrate Silvanus’ return home alongside them. A boulder of guilt and worry weighed down on Axella’s chest when she realized they were going to feast while her brother might be in danger on the open sea.

As though she felt Axella’s unrest, Junia enlaced her arm with hers. Axella rested her head on her great-grandmother’s shoulder and closed her eyes. For a short second, all the worries in the world disappeared.

When she opened her eyes, hell was breaking loose before them.

People were running to and away from the port, as well as towards the ends of the street. All of them were screaming.

It took Axella a while to assimilate the chaos unfolding before her eyes, to understand its cause. The pirates had attacked. Of course, Maximinus had warned them that very morning. And she had let him leave, go to the port and face the pirates as though he wasn’t in deadly danger.

God. Junia covered her mouth with her hand.

Portus Avorum had been attacked by pirates before, but Axella had never assisted so closely to a unfolding assault, mainly because the governor’s people had limited the access to the area each time.

It seemed that this time, they’d been overwhelmed.

Father! My father is there!

Cassia’s shouting was so strident and sudden it shook Axella from the numbness caused by horror.

Her friend was shaking all over, her hand pointing towards the harbor.

Daughter.

Monica tried to grab her arm, but Cassia pulled away.

Seconds later, she was running towards the port, Axella on her trail.

Axella!

Sabina’s scream was quickly lost in the uproar caused by the crowd. People were shouting in terror, trying to get away from the port as fast as they could, merchants were trying to get close to the ships stationed in the harbor, the governor’s people attempting to keep all of them under control.

Cassia was crossing the street when she almost crashed into a huge chariot pulled by soldiers. Axella screamed in terror when Cassia fell to the ground, her eyes wide with fear. Moments later, she was back on her feet, making her way onwards.

A soldier stopped her this time, holding her tight as Cassia struggled like mad to be able to advance. Axella flung towards her when an arm circled her from behind. Gripped by sudden panic, she started writhing too.

Calm down! Both of you, calm down! The strong, familiar voice resonating behind her stopped Axella. The grip holding her disappeared instantly.

Blasius.

Cassia spoke Maximinus’ friend’s name as though it was synonymous with salvation.

Axella turned around. With his clothes in disarray and ruffled hair, Blasius looked as though he’d just emerged from the fight against the pirates. Yet, Axella found a steely calm upon his face. He’d done this before, this hell was not strange to him. How else could he hold himself together?

Take the available soldiers you can find with you and block all the access points to this street. Keep people at bay so we can transport the wounded at the governor’s residence.

The wounded.

The soldier that had been holding Cassia inclined his head before Blasius and stepped away into the crowd.

Axella saw the governor’s people more clearly now: they were evacuating those who could walk, carrying wounded in chariots, stopping the crowd from approaching the port.

My father is there, Blasius. From the way Cassia was looking at him, it seemed she was waiting for him to make all those atrocities disappear, to bring the city back to its earlier state.

Blasius looked her in the eye.

I know that. The lives of many people depend on what’s happening now. We can sit here and talk about it or you two can return somewhere safe. Somewhere where you don’t hinder those who are trying to help you.

Cassia lifted her chin to look him in the eye.

I must help him. I must get there. Tell your people...

Blasius grabbed her shoulders gently, but firmly, and bent his head forwards her.

He had no chance to convince her to give up. Returning home would’ve been to Cassia the equal to throwing her father in the pirates’ hands. She would never forgive herself.

Axella put a hand on Blasius’s arm.

Then allow us to stay here. Allow us to do something to help.

Blasius turned to her.

I’ll tell my people to take you home, where you’ll be safe.

Cassia started shaking her head violently, but Blasius’s glance remained unwavering.

Listen to me. My people have been in this situation before. You haven’t. You’re not ready to face what’s happening. It’s the royal fleet’s duty to protect your father, Cassia, not yours. And they’re already doing it.

Axella turned her head in the opposite direction, towards the place where the fight was unfolding. She couldn’t take her eyes from what was happening beyond the port. Beyond the stationed ships, there were Silvanus’ ships, the ships of the royal fleet of Portus Avorum and beyond them, plenty of ships Axella had never seen before.

Pirate ships. Many, so many pirate ships. Axella tried in vain to count them, for all the forces implied were moving fast, but in the dread of the moment, it appeared to her the pirates were superior in number. The rough screams of the people on those ships resounded all the way to her ears, over the turmoil surrounding her.

She gave up on counting, as her vision was clouding up with tears. She grabbed Blasius by the arm before slowly falling on her knees. The pavement was cold beneath her, but she didn’t care.

She’d learned of the horror of the pirates’ attacks, she’d heard it from her brother’s mouth. She’d felt fear each time she’d known Maximinus was facing them. Still, never had such an event been so real, for she’d only heard of them from stories.

Even moments before, the battle for Portus Avorum had seemed distant. Until that instant.

What is it? Cassia was kneeling beside her a second later. Her hands were on Axella’s face, brushing away her tears.

Somewhere behind her, Axella thought she heard her mother’s voice, but nothing truly existed anymore, beyond her brother’s ship. The ship Maximinus had worked on ever since he’d signed up in the royal fleet, the ship whose captain he was. The ship that was now surrounded by pirates.

They’d been in worse situations.

Maximinus kept repeating that to himself.

They’d been in more difficult positions than the one they were in now and had come out victorious. The only difference was that, this time, the pirates were numerous. Much more numerous.

Calogerus was feared not only because of his reputation and experience. He had the greatest crew and the biggest fleet of pirates Maximinus had ever faced.

They’d followed Silvanus the moment he approached Portus Avorum before attacking him. Maximinus didn’t know if they’d hoped to surround him before he reached the port and they hadn’t managed to or if they’d intended to rob both the port and the merchant.

Not that he had much time to think about it.

Silvanus had sent an alarm signal the moment he approached the harbor and the royal fleet had tried to apply the strategy used in such cases - to position themselves between the merchant’s ships and the pirates, thus protecting the port too.

They’d managed partially.

Two of Silvanus’ four ships had been robbed, but the crew had gotten away alive and managed to distance themselves from the pirates and drop anchor in the port. The third one, the farthermost away from the pirates’ attack point, had made it out intact.

It was the main ship that Calogerus was clinging to now, the one he’d personally attacked from the beginning.

A ship Maximinus supposed was the one commanded by Calogerus flanked a side of Silvanus’ ship. With the help of improvised footbridges, part of the pirates had managed to get on board of Silvanus’ ship, where they were now facing soldiers of the royal fleet.

The fleet’s ships were positioned on both sides of Calogerus’ ship, trying to determine him to retreat, but they couldn’t make much damage, as they were harassed by the other pirate ships.

On the other side of Silvanus’ ship, a part of the ships in the Portus Avorum fleet, among them the one Maximinus commanded, stopped the pirates from flanking Silvanus’ ship on both sides, leaving a free passage for an eventual retreat of the merchant.

After a few hours, the fight was stagnating. The royal fleet’s ships couldn’t draw away, as it would’ve meant to abandon Silvanus in the hands of pirates. Calogerus, on the other hand, gave no sign he was willing to give up.

For how long do you think we can still hold out? Faustus asked. With his hair wet with sweat, his shirt and trousers torn and stained with blood from sword wounds, while the same determination displayed by the pirates, combined with just a little worry, could be read on his face.

Maximinus and Faustus had freed one of the ships that had been robbed, while Gaius had coordinated the ships’ positioning. On the ship opposite from them, the admiral was giving his people orders.

I don’t like this, Maximinus answered. It’s not in the pirates’ nature to sit and wait.

Surely this isn’t the way Calogerus gained his reputation, Faustus agreed.

A deafening sound reverberated in the air.

What... Faustus bent forward, his hands gripping the gunwale.

A series of huge iron hooks, hanging by thick ropes, had been thrown from Calogerus’ ship on Silvanus’, where they plunged in the deck. At the same time, the other pirate ships abandoned their posts, joining their captain.

They’re going to pull the ship after them!, Faustus shouted.

If the pirates managed to separate Silvanus’ ship from those of the royal fleet and surround it, the fight was lost.

What didn’t you understand? We have to surround them! A part of you will stay behind Silvanus’ ship, the other one must advance! Maximinus’ voice boomed, and around him, sound signs to announce the change of formation were launched.

The other pirate ships started moving at the same time as Calogerus’ ship. The wood of Silvanus’ ship groaned agonizingly the moment the ship was forced to move.

Maximinus knew that, immediately after the other side of Silvanus’ ship would be exposed to the pirates, it would also be hooked and hauled behind them, together with everyone on board. Including Cassia’s father.

The royal fleet was moving too, attempting to surround the pirate ships. It seemed to Maximinus that everything was happening too slowly.

Silvanus’ people were trying to cut the ropes, but it was taking too long.

And then, a pirate more massive than all those Maximinus had ever confronted jumped on Silvanus’ ship. Maximinus knew who he was without anyone telling him. Calogerus himself, followed by his people, was attacking those on board in order not to allow them to free the ship.

This is not going to work. Not now, Faustus muttered.

Maximinus watched horrified as Gaius, taking advantage of how close the admiral ship was to Silvanus’, jumped abroad the latter.

Seconds later, Faustus made the same jump as his father, followed closely by Maximinus.

This game ends now, Gaius growled, taking out his sword as he approached Calogerus.

The latter laughed, a laughter that resonated over the fight sounds. A laughter that made Maximinus shiver.

Now I know where to come for good fun.

Calogerus took his own sword out. The two of them exchanged a few strikes. One of Calogerus’ hits passed right by Gaius’ neck, stopping in his shoulder. Blood sprayed in the air, staining the clothes of the two opponents and the deck beneath their feet. Maximinus’ breath stopped in his chest.

Gaius didn’t back down, continuing to attack until Calogerus hit his shoulder wound with his elbow, knocking him down. As Gaius collapsed, Calogerus stabbed him in the thorax. Gaius fell on his knees, without a sound.

Behind Maximinus, Faustus took his sword out. Maximinus was already gripping his.

Calogerus!

The two older men turned towards them. Calogerus had an amused interest in his eyes, while Gaius’ shone with fear mixed with anger. His regard screamed at them to run back.

Maximinus didn’t even think about such a thing. The blood was boiling in his veins, booming in his ears.

He only offered Calogerus the chance to lift his sword before launching himself in a furious attack. Calogerus’ body was considerably bigger than his and his arm was striking much more heavily, but Maximinus refused to give in, in spite of the sweat covering his face and his heavy breath.

It was a confrontation that seemed to come to no end, but to Maximinus it was as though if he kept Calogerus occupied, that would give them the necessary time to win. He only realized he’d been backing down when his back hit the gunwale.

He’s dying! Help!

Faustus’ scream tore Maximinus out of the fight’s ardor. Turning his head, he saw Faustus sitting on the deck, next to Gaius’ laying body. No one around them seemed to notice, everyone engaged in their own fights.

Maximinus managed to see Silvanus running towards Faustus from the opposite direction before Calogerus slammed his wrist with the sword’s handle. Maximinus’ sword flew across the deck, close to Gaius’ body. The most terrible thing was the fact that he didn’t even notice the sound, remaining inert on the ground.

Was he dead?

The cold touch of metal on his neck made Maximinus turn his eyes back to Calogerus. A wave of heat caused him to look downwards, where, above his ribs, a stain of blood turned his shirt bright red.

You have more courage than many veterans I’ve dealt with, boy, Calogerus remarked.

Was it a sort of admiration in his voice?

For that, I won’t make you my prisoner. I’ll give you something more dignifying. A quick death. What do you think about that?

Calogerus was standing so close he seemed even taller than before. Looking him in the eye, Maximinus realized he was supposed to fear this man. Perhaps he actually did, but the fear was stifled by what would happen to his mother, great-grandmother and sister if he perished now, by what would happen to Cassia and Monica if Silvanus was kidnapped or died too, by the possibility of Gaius being already dead.

I think, Maximinus answered. That you’re a living legend. But I also think it’s good I did not forget you’re a man, after all.

Having said that, Maximinus grabbed the dagger he kept at his belt and stuck it in Calogerus’ trunk, under his ribs, up to the hilt.

With an animal growl, Calogerus dropped his sword and put his hand where the dagger was stuck, then took a few steps back. His eyes moved from Maximinus to the growing stain on his shirt.

Shocked, Maximinus backed away, looking around. Soldiers and pirates alike were watching the scene petrified, as astounded as he was.

Nearby, a woman shouted sharply as she ran towards them. The pirates on the ship regrouped around her as the soldiers they’d been fighting gathered around Maximinus.

Although he expected to be butchered, none of the pirates gave him any attention, all of them preoccupied about their captain.

They took Calogerus and transported him back on his ship on the same makeshift footbridge on which they’d got on Silvanus’ ship. The hooks were taken back immediately after that. Silvanus’ ship stopped its advance and, at the same time, so did the royal fleet ships that had surrounded it partially.

Maximinus watched in amazement as the pirate ship retreated hurriedly.

A wave of relief washed him from head to toe. Portus Avorum was safe.

But stronger that what he’d done, stronger than the joy of knowing that the fight had ended in their favor, was the shock caused by what followed. The soldiers and the crew on Silvanus’ ship began to shout in unison.

His name. They were chanting his name, in a wave of voices that soon reached all the ships.

Looking around, Maximinus was thankful for being too tired to stop the surge of excitement that passed through him. He’d never felt something like that and he knew he’d never feel it again.

Gaius was alive.

The wound was serious and the recovery would take time, but he was alive. Maximinus hadn’t managed to see him, since the doctor had spent hours in the admiral’s room, but he’d promised himself he was going to do it the next day. He had to get rid of the image of Gaius lying on the deck, with Faustus despairing beside him, as soon as possible.

The latter had remained in his father’s room to watch over him, and Maximinus had not dared to disturb the peace they needed so much.

The wounded had been hosted in Gaius’ home, as well as in the governor’s residence. Maximinus had walked back to Gaius’ house. The doctor who had seen him had declared his wound wasn’t serious and he would be able to return on the ship next day, as long as he wasn’t involved in any fight for a week. He had recommended, still, for Maximinus to stay in bed that night, something he’d been happy to do - exhaustion manifested itself under the guise of a muscular pain that had taken over his whole body.

Although he’d been laying in bed for hours, he couldn’t sleep. The adrenaline from during the fight was still pulsing in his veins and a few more hours had to pass before it faded away.

Each time he closed his eyes, his mind filled with images of Faustus trying to help his father, Calogerus holding his sword against his neck, the expressions of his mother and great-grandmother when they’d reunited, the panic he’d felt when he hadn’t found Axella with them. If he kept his eyes closed too much, his memory tormented him until his head started aching.

The door opened slowly and Cassia appeared in the door frame. Maximinus could tell by the look in her eyes she wasn’t expecting to find him awake. He quickly passed his eyes over her body to make sure she wasn’t hurt.

Maximinus suddenly remembered he’d been invited to the dinner Cassia and her mother were going to organize to celebrate Silvanus’ return home. It was difficult to believe he’d had such plans only hours before.

Hello, he said, realizing his voice was hoarse.

Hello.

Cassia entered the room, closing the door behind her, but didn’t step further.

The doctor told us to make sure you don’t have a fever during the night. I convinced Junia to let me take care of it so she could rest.

Thank you. How are they?

After making sure Maximinus was fine, Sabina had gone back to Axella, who was resting in one of the neighboring rooms. From what he’d been told, his sister had passed out during the attack and she’d been administrated a light sedative to help her get through the night. Maximinus had visited her before he’d been seen by a doctor himself.

Tired, but well, I believe. Sabina stayed with Axella to watch over her. She’ll be fine, once she wakes up and finds out everything has passed.

With unsure steps, but a high chin and a determined look, Cassia approached the bed and put her palm on his forehead. Her attitude would’ve amused Maximinus, but the moment her skin touched his, time seemed to stop.

You don’t have a fever, she said, although she withdrew her hand as though he’d burned her.

I’d like a glass of water, if you’re so kind, he asked, more to end that awkward moment than out of thirst.

Certainly.

Cassia turned around quickly and headed for the small table on which a jug of water and a glass sat.

But don’t think I don’t know you came here on your own. 

Maximinus laughed. Cassia was taking her time filling the glass.

I haven’t seen you since I came back on land.

Gaius had been transported on one of the fleet’s ships in order to reach the shore faster, while Maximinus had stayed behind to coordinate the retreat.

A cold sweat appeared on his skin as he remembered the moment he hadn’t seen anyone of Silvanus’ family in the port or at Gaius’ home. Many things could happen during such an event, when fear made people lose their minds.

After bringing Axella here, my father arrived with those transporting Gaius. He then left to help with the other wounded, while me and my mother sat with Faustus and his mother as his father was seen by the doctors. Only afterwards did we reunite with Junia and Sabina.

Cassia returned near the bed and gave him the glass. While Maximinus drank, realizing he was actually thirsty, Cassia sat on the bed.

My behavior wasn’t fit for the situation at all. Fear made me go crazy. Only when Axella passed out did I manage to get a grip of myself. She turned her palms upward and fixed her gaze upon them. I’m very ashamed.

Maximinus put the glass on the nightstand next to the bed and took her hands in his. They were warm, a warmth different from the fierce heat of the fight. A warmth that made him think of a home. A warmth that spread through his whole body, driving away the coldness of the death that had breathed in his face.

I’ll tell you a secret, Cassia. I was also afraid.

She lifted her eyes abruptly.

But you defeated Calogerus today!

Maximinus sighed, leaning his head back on the pillow.

"I’m afraid every time I enter a fight. I’m afraid of taking decisions that will put my people in danger. I’m afraid I won’t return home. But my most horrible nightmare is