The Dragon Emissary

By Mick Sylvestre

Janus isn't your typical teen colonist; he's close to becoming his people's ruling Emperor, until he receives news of the arrival of a Dragon Emissary. Janus challenges the opposition of the Senate, just to meet the person that had helped his deceased father Maxillus, stop the Dragon war.

After befriending the runt Emissary Dragon Amakhu, Janus learns that the emissary has brought his daughter Naima along. Later that evening, at Janus' estate, two amateur pyroalchemysts kidnap Naima and almost burned down the estate. Janus learns from his closest adviser that her kidnappers were a fringe group supposedly dissolved during the Dragon War by his father. From then on, Janus starts to learn of his family's sordid past and begins to worry about his own fate. After rescuing Naima back, Janus discovers a bigger threat developing overseas. But first, he must enlist a group of loyalists and misfits to aid him on his journey across the ocean—to the Dragon Realm.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Mick Sylvestre
• Release date: Jul 24, 2022
• ISBN: 9780995009332

Mick Sylvestre

I'm an extremly creative soul that loves making his dreams come to life. I like creating things that are sometimes a little odd, often beautiful and sometimes (if I'm really lucky)...disturbing. Nuff said.

Book preview

CHAPTER 1 – THE EMISSARY

I t's true! Janus exclaimed as he broke away from the crowd. Senators and magistrates moved aside, allowing Janus to pass without incident. The boy ran far ahead from his private guards and Sergius as they all scrambled to keep up to their young master. Excited as he was, Janus hurried through the assembly hall oblivious to everyone around him. Janus knew he was going to get a stern lecture for his inappropriateness, but nothing was going to keep him from meeting a real dragon. He had to get back home and start making preparations to greet his visitor.

Hold it! Stop right there! Pallinus’ hand darted out from the crowd and pulled back on Janus’ crimson robe.

Let me go! Janus yelped, "I order you to unhand me!"

Thank the Gods! Sergius stooped over to catch his breath. I’m much too old to be chasing after you, Janus. This isn’t the place to be running about all willy-nilly.

Let me go! Janus tried to struggle free, but Pallinus’ grip was firm. Janus persisted to escape by swinging out with his fists; everyone else in the assembly hall scowled at him, but had kept their distance, and withheld their comments.

Thank you for stopping him, Captain. He can be so impulsive at times. I swear he gets this way when he returns from all his training and rigorous exercises, Sergius fidgeted with his toga, and you would think he would have less energy, but nope.

The Captain set Janus down and turned the boy to face him. You are too impulsive to be running around in here, Janus. This is a place for politics, not for screaming children.

I know, but... Janus stammered as he blew a gold lock of hair out of the way. He was too excited to continue.

There are too many people here that could take advantage of your naiveté, Young Master. If you go anywhere unprotected you could be injured - or worse. Sergius adjusted his toga, and nodded pleasantly to officials as they passed by.

"Why? I’m just a figurehead. Uncle Dexius handles all of my political affairs. Plus, I have no say in the Senate until I’m older. Once I declare my dictum decree, I will be Emperor. Janus scowled up at Pallinus, then maybe my Captain of the guards will follow my orders for a change." Janus scowled up at Pallinus.

Pallinus bent close to Janus, "You may think you're nothing remarkable, but you are the direct lineage of Emperor Dinus himself. He was an exceptional man, having reunited the colonists after our separation—"

—from Earth, Janus finished and rolled his eyes. I know all that, I got that from Sergius’ boring history lessons. What’s all that have to do with me?

Sergius stroked his gray beard as he walked with Janus. You are from a royal bloodline, both powerful and influential. Many of your kin were not just leaders, but valiant warriors, who gained the respect and the support of the people in the more dire of times.

"See, that I don’t get! So, what is it that makes me important? Janus expostulated further. Neither have I fought any skirmishes nor battles; I haven’t done anything heroic and brave as my forefathers, either. But, then, what does it matter if my kin had done great deeds? What if I decide to live a different path and choose to be a plebeian?"

Pallinus clenched his teeth and spoke harshly. Janus, how many times have I told you never to talk like that in public? Pallinus clapped his hands, if you didn’t have a title you’d be working in some filthy coal mine or even be working in a field crop picking food in the blazing sun. It’s your family name that keeps us indebted to you. Never undermine that — not even once.

How can you be looking after my interests when I don’t even know what I want?

Pallinus continued to scowl. My family had served your family faithfully for many generations. Your ancestors gave their lives to unite and protect the colonists. Sergius’ history lessons are pointless if you can’t recognize your family’s contribution to it. All of this around you had been built with blood, sweat, and tears. What you have, you’ve taken for granted. I hope you live long enough to see firsthand what proper leadership can do for our people.

Pallinus grew closer to whisper in Janus’ ear. Once you do become Emperor, and if you continue to talk like that, not even your title would prevent a revolt. Any show of weakness can mean your status, perhaps even your life, and all of those that serve you.

Why would anyone want to do that to me? Janus shuddered, I’ve never hurt anyone in my life.

The Captain’s smile looked more like a sneer to Janus.

There will always be someone around ready to replace you.

How can I forget that? My own uncle would likely be the candidate of that dark deed.

Pallinus exchanged an uncomfortable look with Sergius, and then squeezed Janus’ small shoulders. Janus, he sighed and took a much softer tone, I took an oath to protect you, but only you can accept your significance. Your duty as an Emperor shall change any childish notions you have, I promise you.

Janus looked at the private guards who had accompanied them.

Their loyalty was to the Captain, and that alone gave him a frightening realization: to lose Pallinus’ faith in him would be disastrous.

I apologize for my reckless words, Pallinus. I took leave of my senses, he said, turning away. He felt suffocated by one rule or another. When do I get to be myself? He pondered. Is being an Emperor going to be all work and no play? All that Janus remembered of his father was his absence. That was not how he pictured his life to unravel. Janus glanced back to Pallinus like a lost pup.

No harm done Janus, Pallinus lightly punched Janus’ shoulder, Sometimes I forget that I was once a child, too.

Sergius, who was ahead of the group, motioned Pallinus over. Pallinus went to Sergius with his hand rested on the hilt of his sword.

What is it? Pallinus gestured to the appointed guards to follow Janus should he decide to run off again.

You must be careful what you say to the Master, Janus. Sergius tried to be diplomatic but firm with Janus’ Captain of the guards. "He’s been very sensitive lately."

What? Pallinus scoffed Sergius’ warnings, I only told him the truth.

Sergius ignored Pallinus’ stare and kept his eye on Janus. Oh? Well, you are more than welcome to drop by in the middle of the night to console him when he has nightmares. Bad enough his own uncle conspires to take his title away from him.

That’s my fault? Pallinus gestured to his chest, no?

No, it was Sergius’ turn to feel exasperated. Please Pallinus, we must guide and teach him to be an Emperor, not bash his hopes and dreams. Sergius smiled up at Pallinus, after all, our young master trusts you. In fact, I think he admires you.

Fine, Pallinus jutted his jaw. They came before the horse drawn carriage that would deliver Janus and Sergius back to the estate. Pallinus helped Sergius into the carriage and Janus followed suit. Pallinus noticed Janus’ sad face and reached out to mess up the boy’s blond locks of hair. Janus smiled back at Pallinus, and the Captain of the guards had smiled back. I’d give my life to protect yours boy, that, I promise you.

– II –

As the carriage jostled along, Sergius gently nudged Janus for his attention. These past few days you’ve been acting strange. What’s on your mind? he smiled warmly.

I was wondering how many enemies my father made before he decided to sign a truce with the dragons.

Well, Sergius stammered, your father was determined to make a pact with them. Some people opposed without understanding that it was either peace or it would be the death of us all.

So what did he do to those that denied him?

Sergius started to fidget with his robe, He had banished many as exiles and others he made an example to drive his point home. Sergius looked out the carriage window, seeing that they were almost home.

Did you agree on his methods?

Sergius said with a little pride, I did what he expected of me. May I ask why you're asking such a grim matter?

I’ve been thinking, if the dragon emissary does arrive here in a few days, I want to be the one at the ceremony to greet him.

Sergius coughed, How did you come to know about that?

I’ve heard rumors, and someone I know confirms it.

Sergius smirked admirably; his Master was learning to be stealthy at such a young age. He had noticed Janus’ cousin Avisana slinking around more than usual, acting a bit too secretive herself. Sergius had dismissed it as game that Janus and she were playing; when all along his cousin was his informant. Janus just might be ready for the political arena after all.

Janus, there hasn’t been a dragon spotted for at least a decade since your father’s peace treaty, Sergius said. It might not be the right time to meet the dragon emissary. Maybe it would be best to keep you out of harm’s way, at least until you’re older, perhaps more responsible.

Nonsense! You and Pallinus can help. Janus leaned out the coach window, motioning for Pallinus to approach.

Pallinus steered his steed beside Janus’ side of the carriage. You called?

Tell me Pallinus, when is the dragon emissary planning to arrive?

The Captain frowned and glared over to Sergius who shrugged disarmingly. He was just as surprised as Pallinus was.

You are remarkably troublesome for a future Emperor, Pallinus remarked. "The dragon emissary is scheduled to arrive in a few days. I am reluctant though, to ask how you knew of this. If you think that you're attending this, then I must be the one to remind you that this is one state of affair you should consider not attending."

But there hasn’t been a dragon here for years.

Yes, that’s true, Sergius affirmed, But Master...

Then isn’t it my duty to be attending the ceremony? Janus looked from Sergius, then to Pallinus, trying to gauge their reaction.

Your uncle Dexius has the common sense to send someone else to represent him, so why can’t you follow by example?

I’m not afraid, Janus grinned. After all, I am just a ceremonial figurehead right now. If the proceedings go awry, wouldn’t my uncle be more than happy to rule in my place?

Sergius nodded solemnly. "That is if there is anything left behind to rule. Should a single dragon decide to attack us, we couldn’t defend ourselves, let alone fight back. Even then, who knows who will be left behind to rebuild the empire again? Tell me Pallinus, do we even have enough troops or weapons to even prevent a single dragon attack?"

We have some relic light ballistic weapons still in the armory, I just don’t know if they work at all, or if there's any ammunition left. What we would need is some heavier artillery or armored transport, like that used in the dragon war. Any lingering high tech weapons are either out of commission or lost in some long forgotten bunker deep underground.

All because of that treaty we signed with them, Janus quipped.

We were at war, Master Janus, Pallinus flustered, We didn’t have a choice. They dominated the sky and brought down anything that entered it. The dragons had destroyed our buildings and our technology: two main reasons that ended our expansion into their territory. They condemned us to remain here on these tiny islands. Only in a short time, we had changed our prison back into a paradise. Your fascination to see a dragon is amiable; however, I remember the tail end of the war. As a young recruit, I saw firsthand the devastation and misery. Dragons detest all humans, and all they need is another reason to eradicate us.

How can that be true? Didn’t they agree to stop the war? Haven’t they accepted our truce?

They almost wiped us out, but after your father made a peace pact with them did they finally stop and left us alone. But ask yourself this little Master, why would they be so interested in us now after being silent for so long?

Maybe it was out of compassion? Sergius suggested. Maybe they had a conscience after all and want to see how we’re doing? You know, reestablish relations?

Compassion — you say? Pallinus chuckled wryly. You of all people know that dragons are both cunning and methodical creatures. They know that our population is growing to becoming a threatening number again. I have no doubt they want to know how our military is coming along. Don’t kid yourself Janus, the dragon emissary is coming by to do more than greet us.

How can you be so sure?

Dragons live a very long life and they don’t forget so easily. They are an ancient race, which do not have a use for technology as we do. We have advanced through the centuries by using tools to aid us. That is how we came to colonize the outer worlds like this one. Now, I fear, we are a guest that stayed too long.

Janus crossed his arms, Regardless of your suspicions, I still want to greet the dragon when it arrives.

Of course you would want to, young Master Janus, the Captain kept his temper in check. Then, I shall protect you from harm — any way possible. With your permission though, allow me to have my men stand fully armed and prepared for the worse.

That’d be awesome! So you’ll be there, too?

Pallinus nodded, I’ll be there to protect you with my own life and a legion of your finest men.

Then I guess we will have to start making plans, Janus beamed, "Finally! A ceremony I actually want to attend!"

I guess it’ll be up to me to tell the Senate and get the arrangements underway, Sergius spoke gravely. If you ask me though, this is a foolish request.

– III –

That night as everyone in the mansion slept, Pallinus checked the locks on the balcony doors and then turned away. He headed down into the dimly-lit hallway. He preferred the mansion in daylight, simply because it was easier to tell the difference between an intruder and an irreplaceable antique. The estate neither had any electricity to produce light as it had in the colonist era nor any central heating and working plumbing to be proud of either. These long-forgotten services had disappeared when the dragons scorched and had ravaged the land.

Even though Pallinus’ routine patrol through the mansion was dark and somewhat uneventful, it gave him some solace. He swore to protect both the estate and the Emperor’s progeny from harm — an oath he would fervently keep until his mortal body had finally ceased to stir, rotting in his grave.

Something unsettling caught Pallinus’ attention: the smell of something burning. He reached out to touch the royal tapestry which hung from the ceiling. On it, a symbol burned into the fabric wove.

What is this? He motioned for two of his guards that had dogged behind him to approach.

It appears as if someone burned the tapestry with a symbol of some kind, sir.

This marking shouldn’t even exist anymore. Pallinus ran his fingers over signet burned in the royal tapestry. The branding smell is recent. He coughed as the smoke burned his throat. He eyed the corridor for anything else unwelcomed. Notice anyone over here in the past hour?

A cleaning servant came and then an hour later I saw Sergius hobbling by.

"He’s the one person I don’t want to see this."

But what does it mean Captain? The guard shifted uncomfortably.

It means that we have to be more vigilant. I need to know how this marking got here without any of my guards seeing who had done it.

But sir, if I may speak frankly, it's quite dark in here. There are so many places a person can hide. Rumor has it, there are many secret passages still undiscovered in the mansion.

I’ve heard the same rumors, Pallinus grabbed for the royal mat as he and the two guards helped remove it from the ceiling hooks. I want this discreetly disposed, burn it if you must.

The Captain rubbed at his temples. Was this a warning from a genuine pyromyst or just someone impersonating as one?

Pallinus watched the two guards roll the tapestry up and steal it away. The Captain of the guard’s brow furrowed, his thoughts were troubled. If I stress the issue with Master Janus, he still won’t understand why I want him to reconsider attending this foolish ceremony. He wants to see a dragon so badly that he refuses to listen to reason, and since this is his first real demand on me I can’t fail him. I’ll just have to post more guards and be as discrete as possible. Not just for his safety, but for those who attend.

CHAPTER 2 – RULES OF THE GAME

Little Avisana tiptoed barefooted through the arboretum and down the garden path which led her under Janus’ window. There, she listened patiently, until she heard Sergius leave Janus’ room. She threw a volley of stale figs through Janus’ open window to get the boy’s attention.

Sorry, I mistook you for an angry squirrel. Janus grinned as he watched Avisana scale from the fig tree to reach the marble ledge to his window.

I will be if you don’t help me, she quipped back.

Why don’t you use the front door like everyone else?

And get Pallinus yelling at me again for showing up at this late hour? Just give me your hand. She climbed up onto the marble windowsill, and held onto his outstretched hand.

"Did I say squirrel? I meant a monkey. Janus helped her into his bedroom. You know, I could ask your parents to let you stay here. Heck, you could even have your own bedroom. All you have to do is say yes."

I’m not so sure father would approve of that little plan of yours. He’d like nothing better than for me to stop dropping by.

That’s nothing new with uncle Dexius. He always seems grumpy when I’m around. It’s like he doesn’t like me at all.

"Ah, he’s practically like that with everyone, well — almost everyone. Avisana waved off Janus’ concerns. She then titled her head, and smiled at him, blinking cutesy. He does look out for his little darling daughter though."

Something different about Avisana caught his eye. Perhaps it was the way the moonlight made her soft, delicate, features glow. Janus did not realize it before, but she was beginning to mature, getting taller, and losing her tomboyish figure. The last time they hung out, she acted tougher, rough around the edges, and well, there were fewer ruffles in her usual selection of attire.

If it wasn’t for the dirt, and stains on it, I’d say that dress looks good on you. It makes you almost look all lady-like.

She brought up her fists, I can still make my big brothers cry for mercy! What makes you think I won’t do that to you?

Should I call for Pallinus to be the referee?

She rolled her eyes, and tugged at her dress, "it wasn’t my idea to wear this constrictive thing, that blame alone goes to my mother. She says I have to: start acting like a lady." She exaggerated her expected daintiness by sipping an invisible teacup and daintily nibbling on some imaginary pastry.

I can almost picture the woman you’ll become through all that grime. Janus laughed as he brought up his hands to surrender before she slugged him. Hey! I’m just saying!

They sat side by side on the window ledge looking up at the full moon and the glittering stars adorning the supernal nothingness of the dark skies while snacking on fresh almonds, grapes, and slices of cheese.

Is it true that you want to meet the dragon emissary? she glanced over as she absently nibbled on a piece of cheese.

I’ve wanted to see a dragon for as long as I can remember.

Dad says that he isn’t going to ‘no stupid dragon ceremony’. She paused, are you sure you should be going? He says that they are dangerous and untrustworthy creatures.

Janus shrugged, I’ll be fine, what’s the worst that can happen?

They breathe death on anyone that comes near them. Avisana paused and then shrugged, at least that’s what I keep hearing.

I don’t know. Sergius once told me that dragons come in all shapes and sizes. Some are as harmless as you and I.

"Well, maybe as harmless as you, Janus. She made an L" sign with her fingers on her forehead, and mouthed loser, to which made Janus laugh.

For a long while, they sat silent. The starry nocturnal sky slowly bloomed to warmer hues, a sign that early morning had begun. I should get back, she arose to stretch, and yawn. So nothing I can say will change your mind?

No, he looked at his hands, and then to her. You could come to the ceremony with me. We could both greet the dragon emissary. He watched her as she climbed down the tree and smiled. She does look like a little monkey, especially when she’s climbing down the tree. He chuckled, but dared not say aloud.

I’d like to, her bare feet slapped on the dewy grass. My family is getting ready to travel back to our mountain retreat.

That’s all the way to Stratagasca? It's a long exhausting trip, even by carriage.

I know. It may be weeks before we get back. She slipped on the slippers she left beside the tree. That is, if there’s anything's left to return to, she whispered as she turned away, running down the path without a wave or saying good-bye.

Janus watched her disappear from sight, then he slowly closed and latched the bedroom window.

– II –

Avisana trotted up the cobblestone stairs to her father’s ranch, suspecting he might be mad at her if he found out how late she arrived home. She always lost track of time when she was with her cousin. She liked how they were almost inseparable, she smiled, but now her feelings for him had changed in an even better way.

As she approached the high gate, she squealed in fright as a burly arm shot out to stop her. Her weighty father withdrew from the shadows, considering if he should scold her or not. Shadowed behind him, were two of his entrusted men who wore thick robes in place of armor. They spoke in low voices, almost sounding conspiratorial.

Well? Her father gestured apprehensively, what did he say to you?

Father, she slapped his hand away, you scared me half to death!

Bah! Do not change the subject, Avis. I know where you were tonight. So tell me daughter, is it true? Does Janus plan on attending this dragon ceremony or not?

She nibbled on her thumbnail and reluctantly nodded, yes, he still plans to attend.

Dexius looked to his cronies, that boy has his father’s balls. I’ll give him that much. He is also going to be nothing but trouble — you just wait and see.

Father, she protested. "Let him be. Janus has no one for company out there on the estate apart from his staff. He’s all alone with no one to play with. Plus If I know Janus, he’s just bored and for as long as we’ve been friends he just wants to see a dragon. There’s no harm in that is there?"

That is such a shame, he eyed his daughter, I just pray you’re not having any romantic interests in him.

Before she could reply, Dexius pressed his hand to her back, shoving her in the direction of home. Your bedtime was hours ago. Now go in to rest! Tomorrow, you’ll be leaving for Pompelli, with your mama and your brothers.

What about you, father? Aren’t you traveling with us?

Dexius’ burly mustache twitched annoyingly. I have some business to take care of here first. Now go on. Well, go on now. He bent low for her to hug and kiss him goodnight. He then smiled at her, and gave her nose a little tweak. He waited until she was gone, and then Dexius turned his heavy girth, to glare at the weaselly brothers. Amarius, do you have any idea how many strings I pulled to get you the gear and training? Tell me it all wasn’t in vain.

Amarius, the older of the two brothers, had served Dexius for many years. Like his brother Metellus, he stood derisively shifty. Tonight though, both brothers bowed graciously. Oh you got your money’s worth, Sir.

You might think I lost my mind, boys, but I refuse to have Janus be the only official present to greet the dragon emissary at the ceremony. I’m sending my boy Titurius, to attend as well.

But, Amarius exchanged an uncomfortable glance to his brother, you don’t mean for us to go too, right?

"I know it's a risk, but it's one I’m willing to take. You two make sure nothing happens to my son. If the dragon ceremony happens to go sour, you get my son out alive. Dexius tossed Amarius a hefty coin bag. Here, you’ll need this for bribes. Do not screw this up. Now go, I am off to attend the merchants’ guild this morning. I hope that I can convince them to fund this ridiculous dragon ceremony. It just had to fall on the same day we have the spring festival. If works out, I’ll come out a little richer."

Yes sir, Amarius and Metellus nodded, of course, sir.

– III –

Sergius nodded to the two guards standing post to Janus’ bedroom doors. Janus, are you awake? Hello? He insisted to knock until he got the response he was looking for. Sergius pressed his ear to the door, listening to Janus grumbling as he approached.

Janus, glad to have you with us this afternoon, I was almost afraid I would have to get the guards here to kick down the door.

With bloodshot eyes and a bird’s nest hairdo, Janus reply to Sergius was one long infectious yawn.

And why are you still wearing the toga from the night before? Now it’s so filthy, stained with crumbs and juice.

Janus slumped back down on his lectus as the soft and silky pillows slipped to the floor. He rubbed his eyes of sleep. I don’t think I deserve a lecture so early in the morning, Sergius.

Then this will come as a complete surprise. It isn’t morning, it's the middle of the afternoon. I did not come by this morning for your daily lessons. This time I let you sleep in.

So what’s so important that you would bother me later in the day? Janus pushed himself upright and sauntered towards the water basin.

This morning the senate council called on me to attend a meeting. They are insistent that way, much like a certain someone else I could mention – but I won’t bother.

Well? Janus splashed water on his face, did you tell them?

I told them about your availability to greet the dragon emissary.

I take it they were not pleased?

Sergius extracted a thin scroll from his robe, something he did occasionally to amuse Janus. Only today, it did not. Sergius handed the scroll to Janus, they ask for you to attend a hearing this evening.

Does this mean I can or that I can’t attend the ceremony?

It means that you should attend the hearing.

Janus made a face, that doesn’t sound promising.

Well, Sergius shrugged, they might just want to go over some rules of conduct, such as: don’t fool around, and ruin the ceremony.

Sergius, your lack of faith in me is troubling. Janus feigned his hurt, and disappointment with a pout.

Then it's up to you to prove me wrong, Sergius smiled, and patted Janus on the shoulders.

– IV –

I see you both made it back. Pallinus entered the dining area, and observed Sergius rubbing at his temples for relief. I take it went – unexpectedly?

Sergius cleared his hoarse throat. I never thought our discussion about it would last this long.

Did they reject Janus’ request? Pallinus kept from sounding enthusiastic.

They would have, Janus spoke up, but I convinced them to reconsider.

Oh? Pallinus furrowed his brow, how so?

Sergius smiled meekly, by reminding the court officials that he’s the Emperor by birthright.

Janus interrupted, I threatened to disband the Senate should they persist to rebuff my demands.

In a startled tone, Pallinus protested. B-but doing that would make them-

Powerless, Sergius quipped.

No, dangerous, Pallinus shook his head gravely. Please tell me you're not serious? Why would you even consider disbanding an electoral government? You would cause riots in the streets, even bloodshed just so you could meet the dragon emissary?

Janus pounded on the table, and stood upright, "how did they expect me to react? They brought me all the way to the forum, to refuse and lecture me! Janus spoke softer, as he sat back down. I thought of all people close to me, you’d understand. I’ve gone to every ceremony they asked me to, but the one I want to attend they refuse me. They said it was for my protection, but I say it was because they will not lose face. If the dragons are as old as legends say, it shouldn’t matter whether the Emperor is a baby or if he’s an old man."

In a flat tone, Sergius cleared his throat, we are all looking out for your well-being, Janus. Our own included, he withheld.

That snake Uncle Dexius, promised my father’s dying wish to represent me, and he has never once took my side; I had to threaten the Senate just to get what I wanted.

But Janus, Pallinus interjected, you went about it the wrong way by doing that. Now you’ll have of them as your opposition. That’s not good politics, it is political suicide.

That’s what I tried to tell him, Sergius rubbed at his sore throat. I’ve been arguing with him the whole trip home. He then placed his head to the table and coughed wearily. He just doesn’t listen to reason, Sergius moaned.

Ah, but they backed down and finally allowed me to attend, didn’t they? Janus nudged his mentor in the ribs.

Sergius raised his head, yes, but like Pallinus said, you didn’t have to threaten them.

But, I still get to go, right? That is what I asked for. So what’s wrong with that? Janus beamed proudly.

Sergius leaned in to stress his point, but why risk the life of those that serve you?

Pallinus looked upset, you could’ve been a little more ‒ diplomatic.

I thought I was being very diplomatic, Janus teeter-tottered his head from side to side, sort of.

Pallinus shook his head, Janus, we are not your enemy, but if you continue to make enemies instead of allies you will have no support when you need them.

I just wanted to greet the dragon emissary when he arrives, just as my father had. Janus’ eyes brimmed with tears as he looked down at his hands. It’s all I’ve ever wanted.

Ah, so that’s what all this is about, your father made the peace treaty with the dragons and so you just want to walk in his footsteps. I can see why you want this so badly Janus, I just think that you went about it the wrong way.

Sergius held his head in his hands, that’s what I’ve been trying to tell him, but he’s been difficult to talk to before the proceedings. He’s so stubborn. You can’t tell him anything he doesn’t want to hear. He then added with a sigh, He’s just too much like his father.

Janus looked defeated. I still can’t believe uncle Dexius refused to represent me. He didn’t even bother to show up.

Clearly, he is on the Senate’s side. Pallinus pointed at Janus and then to Sergius. I’ve told you both many times before, Dexius had too much authority given to him. You watch, he’ll be a threat to deal with some day.

Well, it's late. Sergius got up and stretched, at least Janus got his wish. I just hope it was worth it.

As Sergius when to leave the dining area, he reached out to squeeze Janus’ shoulder. He glanced back noticing that Janus did not flinch, he was like a rock. Some paths are best walked alone.

Good night, Sergius. Janus dismissed his mentor.

Sergius nodded as he patted the boy’s shoulder, good night, Master Janus.

Janus lingered behind, well after Pallinus had gone to bed, leaving Janus to his thoughts. The birds outside had begun declaring a new day dawning. When Janus finally retired for the day, he dreamt of dragons floating through the clouds breathing fire, scorching the heavens.

– V –

The ceremonial day arrived and those that were not frightened off by the possible dragon threat had stayed and lived like it was their last day alive. Which for people like Dexius and his financiers this was an opportunity to run with a dragon theme, raking in a substantial amount of coinage. Meanwhile Janus was stuck in a tent near the stage where a massive crowd of people had assembled to share in this momentous occasion.

Will you please stop fidgeting, Janus? Sergius quipped to his Master as squires adjusted and secured the young boy’s armor with leather straps and metal clasps.

This belt is too tight, Janus stomped.

You're a growing lad, that’s all. Pallinus turned away from the drop curtain that led to the stage. When I was your age we didn’t wear armor. At least, not until we were much older, that is.

It's heavy, hot, and it pinches in places. How can you stand it?

Pallinus shrugged, we all make sacrifices.

Pallinus, are you relishing my discomfort?

If you think this makes you uncomfortable, wait until you see who attends the proceedings with you.

Janus stomped his foot again and whined. Please tell me that it’s not my cousin Titurius, He frowned, it’s him isn’t it?

Sergius bit his lip to keep from smirking. It is, and he’s right behind you.

Titurius? Janus tried to turn, but the squires circling around him held him in place, why are you here? Janus did not have to turn to see his cousin was not alone. He always had female companions around to dote on his every need.

Father didn’t just want you to go to the proceedings alone. I’m here to make sure you don’t embarrass us with your clumsiness.

The girls under Titurius’ arms giggled.

Hey! The countess assured me that she was planning to get her cloak and drapery replaced anyways. Besides, how was I to know they were both flammable. Janus’ has a sour taste in his mouth, I see you brought your groupies along again.

I hope you don’t mind, cousin? Titurius blew a lock of blonde hair from his face, I’m sorry, did you have someone else you wanted to invite? Perhaps an imaginary friend will attend?

Why are you wearing armor? Janus jerked his head in annoyance, "Sergius, why is he wearing armor?"

Uh, Sergius stammered, he’s to escort you for protection? He looked to Pallinus who kept looking out beyond the stage for a sign of the approaching guest.

Titurius placed his hand on Janus’ plated shoulder. Don’t worry Janus, should anything terrible happen I’ll be here to- Before he could finish Janus stormed out of the room.

Wait! A squire scrambled to keep up with him. We just need to make some more adjustments!

He took it better this time around. Titurius sniffed and used both hands to slap his escort’s bottoms from behind. They squealed and giggled in unison.

Janus? Janus, wait! You're not ready to go yet! Sergius looked to Pallinus who gave the mentor a go nod, as he turned his attention to Titurius.

Pallinus approached Titurius menacingly, you thought that was so amusing. Can’t you take anything serious? I thought Janus was bad, but at least he’s still a child.

Titurius rolled his eyes, Father wanted me here. I don’t care about Janus or his stupid childish tantrums!

Pallinus had Titurius by the cloak strings, I figured out why your father keeps sending you to every ceremony Janus attends. He plans for you to become the next Emperor. He’s as obvious as he is pathetic!

Unhand me! Titurius struggled against Pallinus’ grip.

Pallinus sneered and let Titurius stagger and fell backwards. Titurius’ bottom struck the hardwood floor.

Titurius’ eyes flashed with anger. You’d better watch yourself Captain; for times are changing fast. My father has more influence in the Senate than Janus ever will. So if I were you, I’d be careful of the enemies you make.

Titurius swatted his companions away as they tried to help him back up. Don’t think for a minute the Senate wants Janus to have the throne. For now, they allow him to act as a figurehead, for the sake of tradition. So don’t think for a minute he will not be leading us into a new era. You, of all people, should know that. So if I were you, I’d be careful whose side you’re on when it happens.

In the corner of his eye, Pallinus spotted Dexius’ little henchmen waiting for Titurius to give the signal. For the first time in his life, he remained cool and collected. With his best men in the field, all dressed and waiting for the emissary to arrive, he was all alone among his master’s enemies. His fingers grazed the hilt of his sword like a tender lover, but instead of bloodying his ceremonial sword, Pallinus reached out to help Titurius up.

Then may I suggest you lose the girls? This is no time to be flaunting your virility.

– VI –

Ugh! I don’t feel so good, Janus confided in Sergius as they climbed the stairway back to the outdoor stadium.

Every time Janus stopped to complain, Sergius rolled his eyes and he continued to push his young master onwards, if only you didn’t eat all those sweets earlier.

Oh no, Janus spun around and grabbed Sergius by the shoulders.

What now? Sergius stopped and looked around in annoyance.

Don’t I have to present something to the dragon emissary? I have nothing to offer him!

Titurius’ head poke out of the tent, What’s the matter Janus, did you forgot your toys?

Ugh! Janus wished that he had something to throw at Titurius’ big blonde head.

A gift you say? Sergius paused and then he reluctantly unclasped the silver chain from around his neck, and held it up. It was a thin slivery slate of glass, covered in funny little letters, and patterns on the side.

What is that? It looks old.

It's not only old but rare. This came from Earth, long before the dragon war. Back when incredible volumes of information had been stored on tiny slender crystals like this one. Unfortunately now, it is just another useless relic from the past.

It’s light, and so delicate. Janus took the necklace in his palm noticing it barely had any weight to it at all.

When you were a baby, your mother presented me this for years of my loyal service.

You knew my mother?

What a silly question. Of course, I did. In fact, my assignment was to orient her about this world when she came to study the dragons. Sergius smiled down on his young Master with a memorable glint in his eye, you share her indomitable determination, if not her unyielding strength.

Janus’ eyed the gift, a tear slid down his cheek. It’s awesome! Can I present this to the dragon emissary?

Sergius messed up Janus hair, but of course, you may. It was going to be your inauguration gift soon anyways.

Sorry to interrupt. Pallinus poked his head from behind the stage curtain. We have a confirmed sighting of the dragon emissary being within the city limits. It won’t be long now before he’s here.

Looks like you’re going to step into history, Master Janus, Sergius smiled proudly.

CHAPTER 3 – AMAKHU AND NAIMA

Y ou're such a good girl, yes you are. Amakhu patted the back of the squatback’s neck, and retreated to his seat. Keppaku squawked, and then she began to preen her leathery wings. Amakhu watched her do that for a few