Chapter Thirteen is in the queue. Ordered back to Aachen from Rome, Johannes gathers his companions for the long journey north. His party includes his trusted friend Marcus, Father Denis, eight Frangipani retainers, and a number of servants to manage the pack animals and assist wherever they are needed along the way.
Uncertain which route to take from the Holy City to the Imperial City, Johannes consults experienced travelers, merchants, and ship captains before deciding on the safest path. As he journeys north, he learns news that will shape his future at court. Not all of it is welcome.He learns that some, jealous of his rapid rise in the Emperor's favor, would prefer to see him assassinated. As if that were not enough, Johannes discovers that the Emperor now has a queen at his side in Aachen.
In the span of only a few weeks, everything has changed. Johannes realizes that if he is to survive—and thrive—at the Imperial court, he must learn to adapt.