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Valeria Messalina, known as Messalina, is a provocative figure in Roman history. She's notorious for her strong sexual appetites and murderous schemes. Messalina is mother of two, her ill-fated son Britannicus and daughter Octavia, later wife of Nero. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure Poppaea Sabina: Child Bride to Roman Empress Agrippina & Son: Poisonous Plots of Rome The Sex Demons - Incubus & Succubus Sylvia Rose Books Messalina is already wed to Claudius when he becomes Emperor in 41 AD. Claudius is the first Roman Emperor born outside Italy. As a child Claudius is ungainly, sickly and has a stammer, limp and hearing defect. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series He's not expected to live long, let alone take the throne of Imperial Rome. In a time of schemes, conspiracies and machinations, his family spurns him due to his ill health. He's not considered for public office. This may have saved his life. Wolfsbane (Aconitum) Ancient Poisons Chun Yuyan & Death of Empress Xu Black Hellebore: Toxins, Health & Lore Sylvia Rose Books During the reigns of Emperors Tiberius and Caligula, when imperial purges wipe out most of his family lineage, Claudius is not considered a threat. He's unlucky in love, twice married and divorced before wedding Valeria Messalina. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries His first wife flaunts her love affairs and plots murder. Claudius divorces her. His second torments him with psychological abuse, and is also divorced by Claudius. Perhaps hoping for better luck, he marries Valeria Messalina in 38 AD. Wandering Womb - Ancient Medicine Nanaya - Goddess of Erotic Love Visigoths, King Alaric & the Ruin of Rome Sylvia Rose Books Messalina is great-granddaughter of Mark Antony. She's niece of Gnaeus Domitius Ahenobarbus, called Domitius, who is the first husband of Agrippina the Younger and father of Nero. Details of her life prior to marriage with Claudius are vague. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure In 41 AD, after the assassination of Caligula, Claudius is the only remaining adult male of his family. He's named Emperor by the Praetorian Guard, a great relief to Claudius, who initially thinks they've come to murder him. Cypriot Copper & Ancient Cyprus Vistula River: Early Tribes & Trade Verdigris: Volatile Blue Green Pigment Sylvia Rose Books Agrippina and Livilla are recalled from exile on Ponza, sent by their brother Caligula after a failed conspiracy known as The Plot of Three Daggers. Their scheme was to put Marcus Aemilius Lepidus, widower of their sister Drusilla, on the throne. Lepidus was executed. A busy year is 41 AD. Soon after their return, Messalina has Julia Livilla exiled again for alleged adultery with Seneca the Younger. Claudius orders the execution of Julia Livilla. Seneca is exiled to the island of Corsica, later recalled to tutor Lucius/Nero. Old Prussians of the Baltic Coast Çatalhöyük (Catalhoyuk) Neolithic Anatolia Slavic River Spirits & Roman Gods Sylvia Rose Books Messalina is Empress of Rome 41-48 AD. She's portrayed as a cruel, domineering nymphomaniac or sex addict who makes no secret of her affairs. Many of her sexual exploits are based on satirical writings interpreted by later readers as actual history. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series She does have affairs, and without question enjoys both sex and vengeance. She ruthlessly destroys those who stand in her way. When it comes to women, Emperor Claudius continues his slippery slide of bad luck. Bizilla - Shining Love Goddess Sukkal Baltic Aetsi & the Roman Amber Texts Chinese Alchemical Elixir Poisoning Sylvia Rose Books "Youth without restraint, debauchery without bottom, death without hope ... debauchery leading to death ... It is by raising this subject of history to the height of allegory and symbol that I have made this subject a most noble satanic poem" - Gustav Moreau Messalina has no qualms about eliminating rivals in politics or romance. One such woman is Poppaea the Elder. While Messalina is described as having "bewitching eyes", Poppaea is renowned for her beauty. Cleopatra the Physician of Greece Kohl: Eye Beauty Magic of Ancients Immortal - Quest for the Elixir of Life Sylvia Rose Books Poppaea the Elder is fierce competition for the affections of famous pantomime actor Mnester. Messalina has a bronze statue made of him, and wants a sexual affair but he rejects her offer. He comes to Poppaea's bed willingly. Humiliated and angry, in a brazen move Messalina complains to Claudius. Mnester becomes her lover after she convinces Claudius to order Mnester to fulfill her every wish. Queen Eleanor & the Calamitous Crusade Romanesque - Magic of Light and Stone Nature Spirits of German Mythology Sylvia Rose Books Messalina uses her position as Empress to dispose of her perceived enemies and those in line for the throne. She continues her attacks the family of Emperor Claudius, most often the women, and others. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries In 42 AD, Messalina orchestrates the demise of her mother's husband, Senator Appius Silanus. Rumor says Messalina wants him herself. It's possible. Also, she's close to her mother and resents his intrusion. And, as Senator he's a dangerous political rival. Baltic Amber - Gold of the North Alchemist Dippel: the Frankenstein Files Destiny & Death: Fate in the Ancient World Sylvia Rose Books Messalina and freedman Narcissus tell Claudius they had identical dreams during the night, predicting Silanus will murder Claudius. The Imperial Romans are serious about divination, including astrology, astragalomancy and dreams. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure When Silanus arrives later in the morning, being summoned by Messalina or Narcissus, Claudius fears the dreams have come true. He has Silanus executed. Casting the Bones - Astragalomancy Ornithomancy - Prophecy by the Birds Slaves Unchained: Freedmen of Ancient Rome Sylvia Rose Books In 43 AD Messalina targets Julia Livia, another of Claudius' nieces, granddaughter of past Emperor Tiberius. Julia's son Rubellius Plautus is a potential competitor for the throne. Messalina has Julia accused of immorality and incest and convinces Claudius execute her. Messalina is quick to realize the boy Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus, later Nero, is a rival to her own son Brittanicus, three years younger. Messalina sends assassins to strangle Lucius while he sleeps. Žaltys: Sacred Snake & Serpent Queen Abu - Ancient Vegetation Snake God Seduction of Hedammu, Father of Snakes Sylvia Rose Books When a snake slithers from his bed the assassins see it as a bad omen and flee in fear. It turns out to be the shed skin of a snake. Agrippina the Younger has it made into a bracelet for her son, symbolizing luck and protection. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries In 47 AD, Messalina wants to acquire the exotic Gardens of Lucullus, owned by the Senator Decimus Valerius Asiaticus. According to rumor he's in a torrid affair with Poppaea the Elder. Messalina jumps at the chance to acquire the gardens and get rid of Poppaea. Edelweiss: Alpine Flower of True Love Ephedra - Oldest Medical Stimulant Herb Lavender (Lavandula) Magic of Nature Sylvia Rose Books When accused, Decimus Valerius Asiaticus has his funeral pyre built to his approval, and commits suicide by slashing his wrists. Through subordinates Messalina torments and threatens Poppaea the Elder with prison, until Poppaea also commits suicide. The same year, Messalina has Marcus Vinicius poisoned, according to rumor because he refuses to sleep with her. She also arranges the execution of one of Claudius' freedmen, Polybius. This turns the other freedmen from allies to enemies. Ugarit Royal Palace: Romancing the Ruins Cyprus: Prehistoric Humans & Pygmy Hippos Sphinx - Mythical Monster of Ancients Sylvia Rose Books In the Secular Games (Ludi Saeculares) of 48 AD, Agrippina's son Lucius gets more applause than Messalina's own Britannicus. According to Tacitus, Messalina's obsession with her new lover, Senator Gaius Silius, keeps her from tormenting Agrippina. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series Also In 48 AD, Claudius travels to Ostia to view the new harbor he's constructing. Freedman Narcissus tells him Messalina has married Gaius Silius. They have an extravagant wedding banquet at Claudius' expense. Lora Ley Adventures - Feast of Fools Pagan Solstice Fests: Saturnalia Is Cherry Laurel Poisonous? Sylvia Rose Books The exact reason for the wedding is unknown. Silius divorced his wife the previous year, anticipating a union with Messalina. It may be part of a plot to overthrow Claudius and establish Silius as Emperor with Silius adopting Messalina's son Britannicus. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure Claudius hastens back to Rome. In the home of Silius he finds many of his family heirlooms, given to Silius by Messalina. Her alienation of the freedmen is her undoing, as they compile a list of her offenses, shouted at her when she tries to gain access to her husband. Velnias - Baltic Devil God of Death Herbology & Lore: Death Cap Mushrooms Pagan Solstice Fests: Mithras & the Sun Sylvia Rose Books Hoping it's all a misunderstanding, Claudius asks Narcissus to arrange a private interview with Messalina for the next morning. Knowing Messalina will persuade Claudius of her innocence to the charges, Narcissus takes action. Pretending to act on the orders of Claudius, he sends the Praetorian Guard to execute her. Messalina is in the Gardens of Lucullus seeking protection from her mother. The Guard gives her the honorable option of taking her own life. Schrat: German Nightmare Forest Elf Herbology & Lore: Poison Hemlock Ishara - Goddess of Death & Desire Sylvia Rose Books When she lacks courage for suicide, a Guardsman kills her with his sword. Learning of her death, Claudius quietly asks for another chalice of wine. The Senate orders a damnatio memoriae. Her name is stricken from records and inscriptions, and her statues destroyed. Her son Britannicus never becomes Emperor. He dies in convulsions at age 14, at a banquet marking his transition to manhood. Nero, also at the banquet, claims his death is due to epilepsy. Her daughter Octavia marries Nero. She's executed by his order at age 22. Mercury (Quicksilver): Miracle Metal of Alchemy Brunhilde: Tragic Germanic Warrior Queen Nigella Sativa: Black Seed of Healers Sylvia Rose Books Messalina's reputation for nymphomania prevails after death. She's a favorite subject of artists through the ages. Poet Juvenal, in the 2nd century AD, satirizes her as leaving the palace at night to work in squalid brothels with such vigor she keeps going until dawn. In the same context Juvenal also coins the phrase meretrix augusta or imperial whore. His satirical works are written about a hundred years after the demise of Messalina. Her plots, conspiracies and murders never receive the amount of attention as does her sexuality. 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Tiberius Claudius Narcissus plays a major role in the court of Roman Emperor Claudius (r. 41 - 54 AD). A former slave, he gains great wealth and influence. As a freedman he's loyal to the Emperor. He's responsible for the death of one of Rome's most notorious Empresses. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure Slaves Unchained: Freedmen of Ancient Rome Messalina: Death & Desire in Ancient Rome Poppaea Sabina: Child Bride to Roman Empress Sylvia Rose Books Emperor Claudius is noted for his relationship with the freedmen of his court. The freedmen form a stable core of support, which most Emperors do not have. As a freedman assumes the family name of his former owner, so Narcissus is called Tiberius Claudius. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series Because of his staunch loyalty he has the trust of Claudius, as the Emperor's advisor, representative and confidante. One of the conditions of freedmen is fidelity to their former owners. Narcissus takes this to heart even unto death. Wolfsbane (Aconitum) Ancient Poisons Chun Yuyan & Death of Empress Xu Agrippina & Son: Poisonous Plots of Rome Sylvia Rose Books Besides being generous with the freedmen of his court, Claudius gains their empathy due to his physical afflictions and experiences growing up ostracized and insulted by his own poisonous family. Claudius also wants to improve the Imperial image. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure In 43 AD, as Roman prepares to conquer Britain, Narcissus addresses the troops to quell a mutiny. At the appearance of a former slave in their commander's position, the men cry "Io Saturnalia!" and the mutiny dissolves. Visigoths, King Alaric & the Ruin of Rome Lead: Death Metal of Metallurgy Pagan Solstice Fests: Saturnalia Sylvia Rose Books A Roman festival, Saturnalia is similar to the Feast of Fools or the British Lord of Misrule celebrations, when masters and slaves change places for the day. "Io Saturnalia" is commonly shouted out during the festival or after the punchline of a joke. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries The influence of Narcissus ensures the appointment of future emperor Vespasian (r. 69 - 79 AD) as legate or commander of the Legio II Augusta in Germania. The Legio II Augusta, created in later years of the Roman republic (510 - 31 BCE) is famous for skill in conquest. Vermilion - Scarlet Pigment of Death Slavic River Spirits & Roman Gods Brunhilde: Tragic Germanic Warrior Queen Sylvia Rose Books In 43 AD Narcissus is duped by Claudius' third wife, Valeria Messalina, into orchestrating the execution of one of the Messalina's enemies, Senator Appius Silanus, her mother's husband. The reason for Messalina's desire for his death is uncertain. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series A cause often cited is his refusal to sleep with her, a shallow reason often given for men being murdered by women. It's possible she tries to seduce him, perhaps to then accuse him of assault; she sees him as a political enemy and resents her mother's attentions to him. Solnitsata - Neolithic Salt Trade Town Terrazzo Floors & Neolithic Masons Baltic Aetsi & the Roman Amber Texts Sylvia Rose Books Messalina knows her game. In 43 AD she uses the loyalty of Narcissus to Claudius to convince him Silanus wants to assassinate the Emperor. She and Narcissus pretend to have the same prophetic dreams, causing Claudius to have Silanus executed. Later, when Narcissus realizes her true nature, he becomes her bitter enemy, acting to protect Claudius from her schemes and her brazen public disparagement of him. In 48 AD Messalina, already known for her affairs and indiscretions, goes too far. Amazons - Warrior Women History & Myth Baltic Ancient Mythology & Folklore Obsidian: Ancient Volcanic Black Glass Sylvia Rose Books She gives her latest lover, Senator Gaius Silius, a vast number of Imperial family heirlooms, and "marries" him at a public feast while Claudius is away. As Messalina is legally wed to Claudius the marriage is either symbolic or bigamous. However, Narcissus and others suspect she wants to dispose of Claudius, marry her lover, making him Emperor, and have him adopt her son Britannicus as heir. Women Scientists of the Ancient World Cleopatra the Physician of Greece Honey Mead: Most Ancient Ambrosia Sylvia Rose Books Narcissus travels to meet Claudius and tells him everything. Under Roman law treason is punishable by death, as is a charge of adultery. In Rome, a search of Gaius' house finds the heirlooms. Outraged, Claudius has Gaius executed. Messalina begs for a chance to explain. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Claudius gives in and asks Narcissus to arrange a private interview in the morning. Knowing her power over Claudius, and the probability of Messalina poisoning the Emperor, Narcissus takes matters into his own hands. Ephedra - Oldest Medical Stimulant Herb Chinese Alchemical Elixir Poisoning Yumuktepe: Neolithic on the Med Sylvia Rose Books Informing the Praetorian Guard he's acting on behalf of the Emperor, he commands her execution. Claudius doesn't react when informed of her death. In his heart he knows it was inevitable. It may be that Narcissus saves the Emperor's life, this time. After a while, Claudius once more considers taking a wife. Narcissus suggests he remarry his second wife, Aelia Paetina, with whom the Emperor already has a daughter. Claudius divorced Aelia Paetina for obscure reasons pivoting around psychological cruelty. Elixir of Life: Alchemy & the Emperor Mad Honey - What's the Buzz? Wandering Womb - Ancient Medicine Sylvia Rose Books Paetina's daughter is married. It's the hope of Narcissus (and many others) that Claudius picks her husband as his adult heir, rather than the nine-year-old child Britannicus, who is openly hostile. When Claudius chooses Agrippina the Younger and her son Lucius (future Emperor Nero), Narcissus foresees disaster, and allies himself with supporters of the child Britannicus. Claudius yet considers him trustworthy, making him praetor of a canal construction project. Lavender (Lavandula) Magic of Nature Silver - Queen of Precious Metals Lora Ley Fantasy Fiction Series Links Sylvia Rose Books However, Agrippina sees Narcissus as a primary roadblock in her path of Imperial power. She accuses him of embezzlement of canal funds. She's also afraid he'll reveal her affair with freedman Pallas, another strong player in the court of Claudius. According to Agrippina, Narcissus is vocal in his plans to bring her down, promising to support and protect Britannicus. Claudius is in a quandary. His trust of Narcissus already bears a shadow due to the affiliation with Britannicus over Nero. Casting the Bones - Astragalomancy Destiny & Death: Fate in the Ancient World Castle Frankenstein - Legend & Lore Sylvia Rose Books Narcissus' reasons for supporting Britannicus are simple. He knows Agrippina and son are lethal. She wants Nero on the throne and uses poisons and plots to destroy rivals. In 54 AD She has Narcissus sent to Campania, saying the warm baths will help treat his gout. While Narcissus is away, Agrippina murders Claudius with poison mushrooms, thought to be death cap. She then orders the execution of Narcissus who is still in Campania. Hearing of Claudius' death, Narcissus hastens back to Rome. Herbology & Lore: Death Cap Mushrooms Baltic Amber - Gold of the North Figs - Food of the Ancient World Sylvia Rose Books He burns all Claudius' letters to prevent Nero from using their contents with evil intent. As the last of them burst into flames, the doors crash open. The guards seize Narcissus and throw him in prison. Shortly thereafter, Narcissus dies by execution. Cinnabar (Mercury Sulfide) Red Death Turquoise: Precious Stone of Ancients Anqi Sheng & the Elixir of Immortality Sylvia Rose Books READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

Freedmen in ancient Rome (liberti or libertini) belong to a social class of former slaves given freedom and rights. Roman slaves are used for domestic work, as bath attendants, scribes, astrologers, in mines, industry or businesses, on ships or in crop fields. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure Poppaea Sabina: Child Bride to Roman Empress Agrippina & Son: Poisonous Plots of Rome Wolfsbane (Aconitum) Ancient Poisons Sylvia Rose Books Slaves can be educated if the owner sees potential. Trusted slaves act as agents, messengers, child-minders and representatives of business affairs and finances. They might also be freed, receiving certain aspects of Roman citizenship and rights. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure While freedmen are barred from some activities in Roman society, many achieve wealth and high status. Liberti can form the core of the Roman Imperial court and the economic structure of Rome. Many are entrepreneurs. Baltic Aetsi & the Roman Amber Texts Pagan Solstice Fests: Saturnalia Karaca Dağ Volcano: Mountain of Life Sylvia Rose Books Throughout the Republic and Empire, the cultural and legal status of freedmen and freedwomen create recurring disputes in centers of administration, law and society. Many freedmen continue to work for their ex-owners. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series The process of freedom is through manumission, defined during the Early Republic. The three primary aspects of the procedure are compiled c. 160 AD by the jurist Gaius. Women of the Wild Hunt: Holle, Diana, Frigg Nature Spirits of German Mythology Plant Lore: Stinking Nightshade, Henbane Sylvia Rose Books They are: manumissio vindicta - a master or mistress revokes ownership of a slave before a praetor or magistrate. The official touches the slave with an official rod to confirm the status shift. manumissio censu - a master or mistress declares the slave to the census as a libertus of the household. manumissio testamento - a deceased owner frees the slave in his will. After the process the slave has a legal change of status and becomes a freedman or freedwoman. The former slave is then known as a libertus of his ex-owner and family. Freedmen and patrons have certain obligations to each other. Kulla - God of Bricks & Building Greenstone, Scribes & Cylinder Seals Yumuktepe: Neolithic on the Med Sylvia Rose Books Terms of manumission might describe the services (operae) a libertus owes. After manumission, the freed slave receives the nomen gentilicium (family name) of the former master. The freedman is to honor and serve his patron. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series Freedmen are allowed to create networks of patrons and freedmen. They can own slaves and are permitted to wear the pileus, a brimless felt cap signifying freedom. Obsidian: Ancient Volcanic Black Glass Karaca Dağ Volcano: Mountain of Life Hünenburg: Bronze Age European Trade Hub Sylvia Rose Books As citizens, freedmen can vote and even indulge in politics. They can't run for office and are barred from entering the senatorial class. Many Romans, especially the elite, believe slavery leaves a moral taint, which lingers if the slave is freed. The moral taint commonly appears as a theme in Roman literature. Traits of subservience, deceitfulness, ingratitude, rudeness and stubbornness are ascribed to both slaves and freedmen. These oppose the standards of freeborn Roman values. Sacrifice of the Male: Temple at Uppsala Rise of the Phoenicians - Early Years Thrace - Warfare, Slavery & Music Sylvia Rose Books Freedmen are perceived as having little or no social identity. A freedman's reputation, station and personal wealth are bound to the patron, and depend on the details of the manumission. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Even prosperous influential freedmen are perceived by the aristocracy as crass nouveau riche. They actively participate in commerce, while the elite only indirectly engage in exchange of goods and services. Milk & Dairy: Ancient Lactose Gene Saffron - Most Precious Ancient Spice Byblos Vibrant Port City: the Egyptians Sylvia Rose Books Freeborn children of former slaves receive privileges of Roman citizenship almost without restrictions. Emperor Augustus (27 BCE - AD 14) prohibits descendants of freedmen from senatorial positions. Some freedmen rise to high levels of wealth and class. The imperial freedmen, the familia caesaris, have significant influence in administration and bureaucracy. Freedmen in the court of Claudius are instrumental in the demise of Empress Messalina. Messalina: Death & Desire in Ancient Rome The Sex Demons - Incubus & Succubus Rise of Pan: Fertility Goat God Péh₂usōn Sylvia Rose Books As Augustus gains power in Rome, he establishes laws to address the moral decay of the late Republic. His disparaging views of freedmen lead to limiting the number of "undesirable" freedmen. He imposes limits on the number of slaves freed, bars young or insane people from freeing slaves, and states a freed slave must be over 30 years old. He restricts who a freedman can wed and prohibits female descendants from marrying into the senatorial class. Honey Mead: Most Ancient Ambrosia Cleopatra the Physician of Greece Lead: Death Metal of Metallurgy Sylvia Rose Books After the death of Augustus, Emperor Tiberius establishes a new priesthood, the Sodales Augustales. Wealthy freedmen are a prominent group of the organization's membership. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series Apart from religious affairs, the Augustales are active in public life. Evidence from Pompeii and Herculaneum indicates their activities include funding public works, entertainment and celebrations. Pagan Solstice Fests: Saturnalia Pagan Solstice Fests: Mithras & the Sun Inara & the Dragon - Purulliya Festival Sylvia Rose Books During the early Empire the status of freedmen didn't greatly change from the Republican system. while the Augustan reforms had moderately shifted their place in society, new opportunities for freedmen emerged under the new Imperial House. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure Both freedmen and slaves are part of the Emperor's household, and a new group, the familia Caesaris, emerges. The imperial freedmen act as agents and bureaucrats for the ruling family. Wine God Liber: Liberty & Liberal Libation Immortal - Quest for the Elixir of Life Verdigris: Volatile Blue Green Pigment Sylvia Rose Books Members of the familia Caesaris are especially influential in the reign of Claudius. The freedmen Pallas, Narcissus, and Callistus rise in prominence. Claudius's relationship with his freedmen is controversial. Historians such as Dio accuse him of having slavish qualities. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Outside Rome, in particular in Roman colonies, freedmen have opportunities to influence local politics, especially in cities with high plebian and freed populations. Both freedmen and governing bodies find ways around the letter of the law. Alchemy: Science, Philosophy, Magic Al-Mi'raj: Unicorn Hare of Arab Myth The Way to Aaru - Egyptian Paradise Sylvia Rose Books Treatment of freedmen in distant reaches of the Empire differs from Roman regulation. With fewer judicial laws regarding treatment of freedmen, problems arise over a patron's abuse of their labor and even re-enslavement. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Thus the manumission is overseen by religious groups, protecting a slave's manumission by both the gods and Roman law. Later Emperor Constantine defines authority of the patron over liberti. Punishments for "ungrateful" or disobedient freedmen include re-enslavement. Mot - Death & the Ugarit Underworld Elixir of Life: Alchemy & the Emperor Curse of the Evil Eye & Apotropaic Magic Sylvia Rose Books Treatment of freedwomen differs from that of freedmen. While a freedwoman may be granted citizenship, she's prohibited from all political activity and barred from most forms of independent commerce. Unwed freedwomen are usually bound to their patrons for life. The patron retains guardian status over a freedwoman and has direct influence in her affairs and finances. Some laws permit masters to wed and free female slaves. Horses, Alps & Amazons: the Caucasus Reiker For Hire, Victorian Era & Nixies Turquoise: Precious Stone of Ancients Sylvia Rose Books The type of work a freedwoman can perform for her patron is limited. Freedwomen can engage in commerce and craft for their patron and are legally protected from forced prostitution. Freedwomen have certain privileges. They're allowed high stations in local religious cults and act as public priestesses. Inscriptions from freedwomen appear at Pompeii and Herculaneum. Great Women Artists - Käthe Kollwitz Cinnabar (Mercury Sulfide) Red Death Figs - Food of the Ancient World Sylvia Rose Books READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

Vermilion (vermillion) is a brilliant red, orange-red or scarlet pigment obtained by grinding cinnabar (HgS), a sulfur and mercury ore. A lethal beauty, red mercury sulfide or vermilion has been used since Neolithic times in art, ritual and burial practices. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure Cinnabar (Mercury Sulfide) Red Death Lead White & Minium Red: Colors to Die For Hematite: Magnetic Iron Oxide Red Sylvia Rose Books Early people find the rock cinnabar in the vicinity of sulfur hot springs or other volcanic vent region. It's sometimes called red sulfur. The first documented use of vermilion pigment, made by grinding cinnabar, dates to c. 8000 - 7000 BCE. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series In mineralogy and crystallography cinnabar is the red crystalline form of mercury sulfide HgS. Vermilion is the dense, opaque pigment of brilliant hue. It's found at the prosperous Neolithic center Çatalhöyük, known for early innovations in metals and dyes. Çatalhöyük (Catalhoyuk) Neolithic Anatolia Red Ocher (Ochre) Ancient Pigments White Pigments of Ancient Artisans Sylvia Rose Books Vermilion is a color range rather than a specific hue. Mercuric sulfides create shades from bright orange-red to dull reddish-purple. Today's vermilion shades also vary by producer. Differences in natural hues are caused by size of ground pigment particles or inclusions of other minerals. Large grains produce dull orange or earthy tones, and a finer grind brings out the brilliance of color. Originally, vermilion is a by-product of mercury ore mining. Black Pigments of Ancient Artisans Egyptian Blue - First Synthetic Color Orpiment - Painter's Golden Poison Sylvia Rose Books In Spain cinnabar is mined by c. 5300 BC. The mines of Almadén are Spain are the most prolific sources of vermillion mercury ore on the planet. The mines begin operations c. 300 BCE. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Due to toxic levels of mercury, cinnabar mining and processing, along with cramped and forced conditions in early mines are eventually fatal. The miners are convicts, slaves or prisoners of war. Arsenic: Murderous Metal & Miracle Cure Fairy Rings, Moon & Nature Magic Prussian Blue - Delight of Artists & Poisoners Sylvia Rose Books A judicial sentence to labor in mines such as Almadén means a slow and painful demise. Mercury poisoning starts with shaking and confusion, and ends with seizures, madness and death. In De Lapidibus, the first scientific book on minerals, Greek philosopher Theophrastus (371–286 BCE) describes the basic process of mercury extraction. “Mercury is produced by grinding cinnabar with vinegar in a copper mortar with a copper pestle." Mercury (Quicksilver): Miracle Metal of Alchemy Sulfur - Treasures of the Underworld Rosemary: Immortal Essence & Balm of Kings Sylvia Rose Books Vermillion is found in graves in Mesoamerica, along with large pools of liquid mercury beneath some Mesoamerican pyramids. Since the Neolithic and Copper Ages, vermilion is found sprinkled on corpses and in graves in the Old and New Worlds. A famous later example is the Mayan gravesite of the Red Queen of Palanque (c. 600 - 700 AD). A noblewoman, she's buried with rich grave goods. Her grave and body are covered with vermillion pigment. Solnitsata - Neolithic Salt Trade Town Terrazzo Floors & Neolithic Masons Neolithic Skull Cults & Ritual Skulls Sylvia Rose Books Toxic mercury poisoning due to use and handling of cinnabar is known in Mexico from early cultures such as the Olmec (c. 1650 - 350 BCE), but the color is used anyway. Ancient Romans are also aware of the toxic effects. In Rome it's considered an occupational hazard, thus only outcasts of society are sent to the mines. In Rome, vermillion is used in frescoes, statuary decoration and as a cosmetic. In triumphal celebrations, faces of conquerors are covered with vermilion powder. Baltic Aetsi & the Roman Amber Texts Women of the Wild Hunt: Holle, Diana, Frigg Romanesque - Magic of Light & Stone Sylvia Rose Books The Chinese may be the first to make synthetic vermilion as early as the fourth century BCE, Synthetic vermilion was made by either a dry or a wet method. The dry method invented in China involves heating mercury and sulfur in a sealed container. Greek alchemist Zosimus of Panopolis (3rd - 4th century AD) mentions this method exists, but doesn't have the recipe. In the East, cinnabar is also added as a colorant to the sap known as urushiol to form lacquer work (Qidiao - 漆雕), popular through history. Jade - Jadeite, Nephrite & Jade Roads Chinese Alchemical Elixir Poisoning Red Madder: Organic Ancient Colors Sylvia Rose Books In the early 9th century, the process of making vermilion is accurately described by Persian alchemist Jabir ibn Hayyan (722–804) in his book of recipes of colors. Its use is widespread in Europe. The process described by Jabir ibn Hayyan: Mix mercury with sulfur to form aethiopes mineralis, a black compound of mercury sulfide. Heat this in a flask (the compound vaporizes and recondenses in the top of the flask). Break the flask. Collect the vermilion and grind it. Emerald Tablet - Sacred Alchemy Text Phosphorus: Element of Fatal Fascination Electrum: Metal of Money & Myth Sylvia Rose Books At first the substance is almost black. Ground to powder it turns red. The more it's worked, the finer the color. Italian Renaissance artist Cennino Cennini writes: "If you were to grind it every day, even for 20 years, it would keep getting better and more perfect." Ground black sulfur, also known as sulfur black, is a different product. It's chemically created from sulfur solutions generally as a dye. If buying it, take care. Ingredients are banned in some countries and it's not considered safe to ingest. Gnomes: Earth Spirits of Renaissance Mythology Al-Mi'raj: Unicorn Hare of Arab Myth Cleopatra the Physician of Greece Sylvia Rose Books Among other works, alchemists are instrumental in the development of pigments. Alchemy is an influential and controversial practice, from ancient firsts through medieval developments and after. In the West, it's banned by the Pope in the 14th century. Later thinkers convince authorities to reinstate the practice, and alchemy prospers during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Alchemy centers on the tria prima - mercury, sulfur and salt - with the first two making up cinnabar. Alchemy: Science, Philosophy, Magic Ambrosia: Divine Nectar & Immortal Gods Elixir of Life: Alchemy & the Emperor Sylvia Rose Books In the 17th century, the Dutch method of producing vermilion, based on that of China, is popular. Yellow sulfur turns red when melted, for alchemists an association with life's essence or blood. Mercury and melted sulfur are combined to make black mercury sulfide. Also called sulfur nigra or horse sulfur, it's then heated in pots sealed with clay to produce red mercury sulfide. To remove the impurities, crystals are treated with a strong alkali, washed, and finally ground under water to yield the commercial powder form of the pigment. Ancient Egypt Remedies: Ebers Papyrus Women of Alchemy - Mary the Jewess Castle Frankenstein - Legend & Lore Sylvia Rose Books Artist Cennino Cennini advises: “Always buy vermilion unbroken, and not pounded or ground. The reason? Because it is generally adulterated, either with red lead or with pounded brick.” Red lead, also called minium, is commonly used in illuminated manuscript art, or "miniatures" in the Middle Ages. Romans sometimes refer to vermilion as minium. Cennini also mentions vermilion's noxious habit of darkening with age. Lapis Lazuli: Vibrant Blue Gem of Ancients Alchemist Dippel: the Frankenstein Files Queen Eleanor & the Calamitous Crusade Sylvia Rose Books Vermillion (Vermilion) Name Terminology Used first in English in the 13th century, the word vermilion comes from the Old French word vermeillon. This in turn evolves from vermeil, from Latin vermiculus, the diminutive of the Latin word vermis for worm. The name originates because the vermilion pigment is a similar color to the natural red dye made from an insect, Kermes vermilio or cochineal bug, which is widely used in Europe. The first recorded use of "vermilion" as a color name in English is in 1289. Kermes Insect & Ancient Red Pigments Cleopatra the Alchemist of Alexandria Quest for Immortality - Qin Shi Huang Sylvia Rose Books READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

In August 1888, Bertha Benz of Mannheim, Germany loads her kids into a revolutionary vehicle and heads for Pforzheim. She drives the Benz Patent Motorwagen No. 3, created in 1886 by her husband Karl. Bertha's memorable road trip brings Benz into the public eye. READ - Lora Ley Fantasy Fiction German Mythology Series See also: Pioneering German Women - Anita Augspurg German Traditions - the Linden Tree Great 19th Century German Woman Artists Today's Zazzle Specials Smashwords Books When Bertha marries Karl, German law states a woman must give all her assets to her husband when they wed. In 1887 that law is finally repealed. Bertha brings plenty of money to the marriage and always considered herself an investor and business partner. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Karl Benz has already shown his work to the Mannheim populace. His vehicles receive mild attention as novelties and Bertha, frustrated by her husband's poor marketing skills, itches for real action. See also: German House Spirits: Beer Donkey (Bieresel) Lora Ley Adventures - Feast of Fools Queen Eleanor & the Calamitous Crusade Sylvia Rose Books on Smashwords Lora Ley Fantasy Fiction Series Reiker For Hire Murder Mysteries Sylvia Rose Art on Zazzle While Karl fiddles in the workshop, she puts on her travel hat, grabs sons Richard, thirteen and Eugen, fifteen, and fires up the car. Not only does she get plenty of attention during her drive, she identifies problems and makes improvements. On the way she deals with challenges as they arise. She cleans a blocked fuel line with her hat pin, uses her garter as insulation and gets a smith to help fix a chain. See also: Butzemann, Witches & Nyx - Scare 'em Good Hags in German Myth & Folklore Hippomancy: Sacred Horse Divination Today's Zazzle Specials Smashwords Books The Benz Patent Motorwagen Number 3 uses ligroin, a petroleum derivative, as fuel. At the time, chemists supply ligroin. So, when Bertha fills 'er up, the Stadt-Apotheke (Town Pharmacy) in Wiesloch, became the world's first filling station. It's still there today. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure In 1925 Karl Benz writes in his memoirs: "Only one person remained with me in the small ship of life when it seemed destined to sink. That was my wife. Bravely and resolutely she set the new sails of hope." See also: Periwinkle: Magic & Medicine of Europe Silver - Queen of Precious Metals Night Raven (Nachtkrapp) Germania Sylvia Rose Books on Smashwords Lora Ley Fantasy Fiction Series Reiker For Hire Murder Mysteries Sylvia Rose Art on Zazzle The road she traveled, from Mannheim via Heidelberg and Wieloch to Pforzheim and back, is now the Bertha Benz Memorial Route. The route covers a distance of 65 mi or 104 km. Mercedes Benz While Karl Benz works on his machines, an automaker from Stuttgart was busy in England. Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler create the automobile at the same time, but independently. Daimler builds the Daimler Motorized Carriage. See also: Women of the Wild Hunt: Holle, Diana, Frigg Elderberry Tree: Germanic Nature Lore Agrippina & Son: Poisonous Plots of Rome Today's Zazzle Specials Smashwords Books Daimler dies in 1900 and the business calls upon Emil Jellinek, an entrepreneur and racing enthusiast. His daughter's name is Mercedes. By this time Benz is already in merger with Daimler. The Mercedes Benz motor company hits the market in 1926. See also: German Myth - the Lutzelfrau Witches & Witchcraft: Ancient World Pomegranate - Food of the Ancients

Chun Yuyan (Chunyu Yan) is a Chinese court official in the 1st century BCE, during the Han Dynasty. As obstetrician and gynecologist to Empress Xu, Chun Yuyan may be the first woman of her medical profession in China. She's also a dangerous player in a deadly game. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure Quest for Immortality - Qin Shi Huang Anqi Sheng & the Elixir of Immortality Jade - Jadeite, Nephrite & Jade Roads Sylvia Rose Books In 75 BCE, a young woman of 15, Xu Pingjun, gives birth to a son, Liu Shi. Her husband Liu Bingyi is a poor commoner, depending on his wife's family for support. Yet, he is of noble blood, the sole survivor of the family of a Crown Prince who opposes the Emperor. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series For taking part in a failed usurpation plot the Crown Prince is accused of witchcraft and made to commit suicide. All his family members are executed except his grandson, infant Liu Bingyi, who is stripped of royal rights and given to the warden to be raised in prison. Cinnabar (Mercury Sulfide) Red Death Chinese Alchemical Elixir Poisoning Jade - Jadeite, Nephrite & Jade Roads Sylvia Rose Books Liu Bingyi is released after a strange episode. Magicians of Emperor Wu, late in his reign, detect an "Imperial Aura" in the prisons. Wu orders all prisoners killed. After multiple mass slaughters the Emperor has a change of heart, and only the prison of Liu Bingyi is spared. Emperor Wu dies in 89 BCE. He's succeeded by his son Emperor Zhao, who is seven or eight years old. The age of majority in China at the time is 20. The regent for the boy emperor is military leader Huo Guang. Cleopatra the Physician of Greece Reishi or Lingzhi - Mushroom Magic Egyptian Alchemy - Power of Eternity Sylvia Rose Books As a youth still below the age of majority, Liu Bingyi is put into the care of the Ministry of Imperial Clan Affairs. A chief eunuch takes him in and even pays for his schooling when Imperial funds are cut off. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Through some manipulation by parents and guardians he's given a wife, pretty young Xu Pingjuin. Her family has some influence but suffers under the current Emperor. Poor or not Bingyi is a legitimate grandson of the Crown Prince. He's still in line to rule. Giant Cinnamon Birds of Arabia Hattusa Green Stone - Mystic Secrets Baltic Amber - Gold of the North Sylvia Rose Books The young Emperor Zhao dies mysteriously at the age of 20 in 74 BCE. After a few months with the Crown Prince as Emperor, the regent Huo Guang usurps him and puts 17-year-old Liu Bingyi on the throne as Emperor Xuan. Xu Pingjuin becomes Empress Xu. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure Due to the youth of the couple, the regent Huo Guang fundamentally runs the Empire. Less than three years later Empress Xu is pregnant again. She has ongoing health problems and is being treated by court physicians. Chinese Alchemical Elixir Poisoning Ancient Egypt Remedies: Ebers Papyrus Zis - Ancient Warrior Hero God Thrace Sylvia Rose Books Her devoted obstetrician and gynecologist, Chun Yuyan (personal name Shaofu), is with her every day. Chun Yuyan is considered the first woman in China to hold those medical titles. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series One day, entering the palace, Chun Yuyan speaks to her husband Shang, a door guard. Shang tells Chun Yuyan to intercede with Huo Guang's wife, Huo Xian, and secure a position for Shang as director of the An salt wells. Sun Goddesses of World Mythology Neolithic Salt & Brine Works Europe Bronze Age Europe - the Amber Roads Sylvia Rose Books A powerful military and political figure, Huo Guang is chief state official of the Western Han dynasty from 87 BCE until his death in 68 BCE. As a high-ranking palace aide he has powers of life and death. His wife, Huo Xian, is an ambitious woman. Chun Yuyan does as her husband asks, and has a quiet word with the Lady. Yazilikaya: Sacred Site of the Hittites Hippomancy: Sacred Horse Divination Queen Eleanor & the Calamitous Crusade Sylvia Rose Books Huo Xian is delighted. She wants her own daughter as Empress and is waiting for just such an opportunity. With promises of promoting Shang and sharing her considerable wealth with Chun Yuyan's family, she convinces Chun Yuyan to murder Empress Xu. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure Huo Xian asserts the murder will be hard to detect, as death in childbirth is common. After some thought, Chun Yuyan agrees. She secretly mixes a medicine for the Empress containing aconite, a deadly poison. Yumuktepe: Neolithic on the Med Is Cherry Laurel Poisonous? Rhododendron & the Toxic Ambrosia Sylvia Rose Books Aconite occurs naturally in plants of the genus Aconitum. Monkshood (wolf's bane) and others have significant levels of highly toxic aconitine and related alkaloids, particularly in roots and tubers. A mere 2 mg of aconite or 1 g of the plant can cause death. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Aconitum plant poisons act on the nervous system, with symptoms of nausea, diarrhea, convulsions, respiratory paralysis and heart failure. Symptoms usually occur on consuming the poison but may take up to an hour to show. With a high dose, death is almost instant. Pretty Poisons: Holly, Yew, Mistletoe Ambrosia: Divine Nectar & Immortal Gods Oldest Cattle Cult 6000 BCE - Arabia Sylvia Rose Books Empress Xu is weak after childbirth. Chun Yuyan gives her the poisoned medicine. When the Empress takes it she complains of feeling sick, and developing a headache. Chun Yuyan assures her it's normal, and gives the Empress more medicine. Soon thereafter, Empress Xu goes into convulsions and dies. She is eighteen years old. The fate of the child she bore is not known. Alchemy: Science, Philosophy, Magic Al-Mi'raj: Unicorn Hare of Arab Myth Figs - Food of the Ancient World Sylvia Rose Books Ultimately, all physicians who care for the Empress during her illness face accusations of inadequate treatment, leading to arrest and trial. Notably, even when Huo Xian later blurts out the truth, Chun Yuyan emerges unscathed, with no accusations of guilt. Cattle Goddesses & the Cosmic Cow Khella - Ancient Health & Herbology Crocodilopolis - Sobek Crocodile God Back to Top

Poppaea Sabina is a beautiful, ambitious woman embroiled in the plots and schemes of Imperial Rome. She manipulates her way to the bed of Roman Emperor Nero, with her sights on the title of Empress. Two women stand in her way - his mother, and his wife. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure Agrippina & Son: Poisonous Plots of Rome Casting the Bones - Astragalomancy Wolfsbane (Aconitum) Ancient Poisons Sylvia Rose Books Poppaea Sabina (30 AD – 65 AD), also known as Ollia, is born in Pompeii and later has a residence near Heracleum. Historians of antiquity describe her as a beautiful woman who strategizes her way to the top. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series The Villa Poppaea at Oplontis near Pompeii bears her name due to the archaeological finds there. A species of African moth, Poppaea sabina, is named for her. Chun Yuyan & Death of Empress Xu Arsenic: Murderous Metal & Miracle Cure Thrace - Warfare, Slavery & Music Sylvia Rose Books Poppaea Sabina the Younger is born in Pompeii in 30 AD, daughter of Titus Ollius and Poppaea Sabina the Elder. For most of her childhood she uses her patronymic name "Ollia". Before her first marriage she switches to her mother's name. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure The name change may be due to her father's disgrace and suicide. Her family lives at the Casa del Menandro in Pompeii. The house is so named by archaeologists due to a painting of the 4th century BCE playwright Menander found there. Hippomancy: Sacred Horse Divination Minoans of Crete: Ancient Greek Culture Ugarit Royal Palace: Romancing the Ruins Sylvia Rose Books Most evidence linking Poppaea to Pompeii is found during excavations of a town destroyed in the 79 AD Mount Vesuvius eruption. Documents from Herculaneum describe her as the owner of a brick or tile business, which she inherits after her mother's death in 47. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries The sumptuous Villa Poppaea at Oplontis near Herculaneum is her main residence outside Rome. Her family history is not fortunate. Poppaea Sabina the Elder, her mother, is praised by Tacitus (c. 56 - c. 118 CE) as wealthy and "the loveliest woman of her day". Bronze Age Europe - The Amber Roads Horse in Dreams - Meaning of Horses Women of the Wild Hunt: Holle, Diana, Frigg Sylvia Rose Books Poppaea the Elder is known for her beauty, a trait inherited by her daughter. Titus Ollius, a prominent Roman citizen, comes from Cupra Maritima in Picenum, east central Italy on the Adriatic Sea. An inscription there includes his name and names of three of his freedmen. On October 18, 31 AD Roman statesman Lucius Aelius Sejanus, friend and confidante of Emperor Tiberius, attempts a coup and fails. Sejanus is executed for treason. Known as a friend of his, Titus Ollius commits suicide, a common practice for disgraced persons. Stymphalian Birds & Greek Heroics Black Hellebore: Toxins, Health & Lore Pagan Solstice Fests: Saturnalia Sylvia Rose Books After the death of Titus Ollius, Poppaea's mother marries Publius Cornelius Lentulus Scipio the Elder, a Roman senator. She and Publius arrange her daughter's marriage to Rufrius Crispinus, a wealthy member of the equestrian class. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series Poppaea the Younger is 14 years old when she marries Rufrius Crispinus in 44 AD. He's prefect of the Praetorian Guard, the personal bodyguard of the Emperor until 51 AD, during the first 10 years of the reign of Claudius. Egyptian Blue Lotus: Visionary Beauty Sun Goddess: Creator to Cannibal Myths Australia Germanic Mythology - Brook Horses Sylvia Rose Books Poppaea the Elder meets a tragic end in 47 AD. The wife of Claudius, Empress Messalina, wants the Gardens of Lucullus. Built in 60 BCE, the gardens are famed for spectacular beauty, vast expanse and active ecology. They're owned by recurring consul Decimus Valerius Asiaticus. Besides desire for the gardens, Messalina is a rival of Poppaea the Elder for the affections of renowned pantomime actor Mnester. Fairy Rings, Moon & Nature Magic Lora Ley Adventures - Feast of Fools Veratrum album - Tragic Toxins Sylvia Rose Books Mnester is active during the reigns of Caligua and later Claudius, who both admire him greatly. Roman historian Suetonius (69 - 122 AD) writes "... in relation to all those who were [Caligula's] favorites, his behavior constituted madness. He used to kiss the pantomime actor Mnester even in the middle of the games. And if, when Mnester was performing, anyone made the slightest noise, he had him dragged from his seat and flogged him himself." Turquoise: Precious Stone of Ancients Nixies - Lora Ley Fantasy Fiction Rhododendron & the Toxic Ambrosia Sylvia Rose Books Based on rumors of Poppaea the Elder and garden owner Asiaticus being lovers, Messalina orders her servant Suilius to accuse Asiaticus of treason, and accuse the pair of adultery. Asiaticus is tried in the private chambers of Emperor Claudius. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series Asiaticus receives a choice between a guilty plea, or suicide. He chooses the latter. Meanwhile, Messalina sends people after Poppaea the Elder with threats of torture and prison, until she commits suicide in 47 AD, clearing the way for the desires of Messalina. Pagan Solstice Fests: Mithras & the Sun Hyssop (Hyssopus) - Plant of Mystic Lore Ugarit - Trade Hub of Bronze Age Syria Sylvia Rose Books Messalina's victory doesn't last long. For plotting against her husband Emperor Claudius, she is executed in 48 AD. The next year, Claudius marries his niece and fourth wife, Agrippina the Younger. In 50 AD he adopts her son Nero, making the boy his legitimate heir. Agrippina removes Poppaea's husband Rufrius Crispinus and others from the Praetorian Guard. She sees them as loyal to the memory of treacherous Messalina. Agrippina herself plots to get rid of Claudius and put Nero on the throne. Warrior Queen: Kriemhild of the Burgundians Herbology & Lore: Death Cap Mushrooms Sun Goddesses of World Mythology Sylvia Rose Books During her marriage to Rufrius, Poppaea the Younger gives birth to his son, also called Rufrius Crispinus. Later, the boy also becomes an innocent victim of inheritance schemes. Poppaea and Rufrius the Elder divorce. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series In Imperial Rome, divorce is simple. The couple declares intent to divorce, in front of seven witnesses. There are no lawyers yet, except orators and "friends" with legal knowledge, who are not allowed to charge a fee. Emperor Claudius legalizes lawyers during his reign. Women of Alchemy - Mary the Jewess Solnitsata - Neolithic Salt Trade Town Chinese Alchemical Elixir Poisoning Sylvia Rose Books In 54 BCE Agrippina the Younger murders Emperor Claudius with poison mushrooms, believed to be death cap (Amanita phalloides). As per his mother's plans, Nero becomes Roman Emperor at the age of seventeen. Claudius has a young daughter, Octavia, by Valeria Messalina. She marries Nero before his ascension and becomes Empress in 54 AD. As Octavia and Nero are siblings due to Nero's adoption by Claudius, Octavia has to be adopted by another family before the wedding. Baltic Amber - Gold of the North Mercury (Quicksilver): Miracle Metal of Alchemy Cleopatra the Physician of Greece Sylvia Rose Books In 55 AD, the son of Messalina, Britannicus, dies at his own banquet at the age of 14. Emperor Nero explains the boy's seizures as an epileptic condition since childhood. Thus is a potential pretender to the throne eliminated. In 58 AD, Poppaea the Younger marries future emperor Otho. Member of a noble Etruscan family, Otho is friend and courtier of Nero. Cleopatra the Alchemist of Alexandria Visigoths, King Alaric & the Ruin of Rome Queen Eleanor & the Calamitous Crusade Sylvia Rose Books In The Lives of the Caesars Suetonius describes Otho's looks and habits. He is said to have been of moderate height, splay-footed and bandy-legged, but almost feminine in his care of his person. He had the hair of his body plucked out, and because of the thinness of his locks wore a wig so carefully fashioned and fitted to his head, that no one suspected it. Moreover, they say that he used to shave every day and smear his face with moist bread, beginning the practice with the appearance of the first down, so as never to have a beard. German Folklore - Irrwurz or Mad Root Brunhilde: Tragic Germanic Warrior Queen Nanaya - Goddess of Erotic Love Sylvia Rose Books Always a strategist, Poppaea weds Otho to get close to the Emperor. Nero falls madly in love with this charming beauty, and she becomes his mistress. It's not long before Otho finds himself divorced, and sent as governor to the remote province Lusitania in Portugal. As Poppaea and Nero carry on their affair, Nero's mother Agrippina the Younger, now Empress Dowager, is alarmed. Ambitious and clever, Agrippina seeks to control Nero's decisions and the affairs of the empire. She knows the fiery redhead Poppaea is trouble. Chaoskampf: Order & Chaos Battle Out Schrat: German Nightmare Forest Elf Castle Frankenstein - Legend & Lore Sylvia Rose Books Poppaea taunts and belittles Nero for his dependence on his mother. Nero's resentment and paranoia grow. He wants to rule without his mother's interference. He's afraid he'll be next on her murderous agenda. Poppaea is worried about becoming a target for Agrippina. Three times Nero tries to poison Agrippina, and three times she discovers or suspects his plans, and takes an antidote beforehand. In 59 AD, frustration reaches a boiling point, and Nero plans his most extravagant method of murder yet. Wandering Womb - Ancient Medicine Steam & Style - Agrippina of the Rhine Hotel of Horror - The Lady Detective Sylvia Rose Books He has her royal barge rigged to fall apart in the water, and bribes the crew members. When Agrippina takes her next voyage, the barge doesn't destruct as planned. Crewmen try to sink it and drown her. As they're distracted by killing a woman they think is Agrippina, she swims to shore and hides in a peasant village. The information leaks to Nero. He sends three assassins with long blades. Her final cry is "smite my womb!" referring to the evil she has birthed. Screaming Swiss Spirit: Pfaffenkellnerin Vermilion - Scarlet Pigment of Death Ereshkigal & the Mesopotamian Underworld Sylvia Rose Books With Agrippina gone, Poppaea is that much closer to the throne of Imperial Rome. Not satisfied with the role of mistress, she pressures Nero to divorce Octavia, so he can marry her. In 62 AD Poppaea becomes pregnant. Nero's marriage of eight years to Octavia is childless. He divorces Octavia on the grounds of infertility and banishes her. Although the marriage of Nero and Octavia is one of mutual dislike, people of Rome love the young Empress. Uprisings and protests break out. Garnets - Gemstones of Blood and Life Anqi Sheng & the Elixir of Immortality Çayönü Tepesi: Blood of the Earth Sylvia Rose Books Her mere existence is dangerous for Poppaea. Exile is not good enough. Nero has to search hard for a man who will lie and admit adultery with Octavia, but he finds one. He sends assassins. Octavia meets her tragic end at the age of 22. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Nero's marriage to Poppaea Sabina twelve days later gives Poppaea the title of Empress of Rome. In January 63, she gives birth to a girl, Claudia Augusta. Romanesque - Magic of Light & Stone Šassūrātu (Sassuratu): Deific Midwives Yumuktepe: Neolithic on the Med Sylvia Rose Books Five months later, the baby dies of an unknown cause. Nero and Poppaea Sabina mourn her death. Claudia is declared a goddess. Gold statues are erected in temples. Circus games are held in her honor. A shrine and a priest are dedicated to her. During her reign as Empress Poppaea shows sympathy for the Roman Jews, convincing Nero toward tolerance and understanding. At one point she takes the side of Jewish priests in a dispute over a wall blocking view of the temple. Yahweh: Warrior Origins, Name & Lore Baal Cycle - Myths of Ba'al Hadad Asherah: Goddess of Childbirth & Fertility Sylvia Rose Books However, in 64 Poppaea grants the position of procurator of Judaea to Gessius Florus, husband of a friend, who is cruel toward the Jews. Also in 64, flames of destruction rage through the city of Rome. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure The fire starts in merchant shops near Rome's chariot stadium, Circus Maximus. After six days, the fire seems under control, but reignites and burns for three more days. In the end, 71% of Rome is destroyed. Baltic Aetsi & the Roman Amber Texts Women Scientists of the Ancient World Sylvia Rose Books Nero blames the Christians, as he has no liking for Apostle Paul trying to convert Romans to the faith of the Christian god. Judaism is a legal religion in the Roman Empire. Although Christianity evolves from Jewish traditions, it has no legal protection. Soon, Poppaea is pregnant again. In summer of 65, awaiting the birth of the child, she and Nero quarrel. The conflict turns violent and Nero kicks Poppaea in the abdomen. In another version he jumps on her belly. The miscarriage kills her and the unborn baby. Electrum: Metal of Money & Myth Nimrod: Lord of Chaos & Creation Kamrushepa: Hittite Goddess of Magic Sylvia Rose Books After the brutal death of Poppaea, Nero drowns her son Rufius on a fishing trip. He descends further into madness as he thinks his mother is haunting him. His activities get more outrageous, such as marrying a eunuch who, oddly enough, resembles Poppaea. Ambrosia: Divine Nectar & Immortal Gods Mushussu - Snake Dragon Animal of Marduk The Igigi - Why Humans are Created READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure Back to Top

Mother of notorious Nero and sister to Caligula, Agrippina the Younger is one of the most influential women in Roman history. Born in a time of poisonous people, lethal schemes and power madness, she plots to enthrone Nero as Emperor. It comes with a price on her head. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure Jump to: Roman Conquest Agrippina the Younger Poison in Ancient Rome Nero & Poppaea Assassination of Agrippina End of a Dynasty Alchemist Dippel: the Frankenstein Files Slavic River Spirits & Roman Gods Wine God Liber: Liberty & Liberal Libation Sylvia Rose Books Roman Conquest Back to Top In 47 AD the Roman Empire occupies Spain and much of southern Europe, Egypt and North Africa. After intense fighting in 47 the Romans conquer the tribes of Britain. At the other end of the Roman map is suppression of the 46 - 48 uprising of Zealots in Galilee. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series In Italy, Paul the Apostle begins to spread the word about Christianity. Also in 47, Romans build a fortification near the mouth of the Rhine (Rhenus), which eventually becomes the seaport city of Utrecht. German Myth - Father Rhine River God Chun Yuyan & Death of Empress Xu Wolfsbane (Aconitum) Ancient Poisons Sylvia Rose Books Agrippina the Younger Back to Top Julia Agrippina (15 - 59 AD) or Agrippina the Younger, is Empress of Rome from 49 to 54 AD. Born of royal lineage, she has a uncanny instinct for deception. It saves her life several times, when her son Nero tries to poison her. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure At 14 years old, in 29 AD Agrippina is wed to consul Gnaeus Domitius Ahenobarbus. In ancient Rome a girl is deemed an adult upon her first menstruation. Herbology & Lore: Poison Hemlock Castle Frankenstein - Legend & Lore Romanesque - Magic of Light and Stone Sylvia Rose Books Her brother Caligula becomes Roman Emperor in March 37 AD. Agrippina gives birth to a son Lucius (later Nero) in December of 37 AD. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries According to ancient biographer Suetonius, Nero's father Domitius is not pleased. When congratulated for birth of his son, he claims any child born to him and Agrippina will have a detestable nature and become a public danger. Drude: Germanic Demon of Darkness The Sex Demons - Incubus & Succubus Vermilion - Scarlet Pigment of Death Sylvia Rose Books Suetonius describes Domitius as "a man loathsome in every respect". Domitius illustrates this in abundance. He kills his freedman for refusing to drink as much as he was told. The reported reason was that the freedman did not get as drunk as Domitius did. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series On the Appian Way, Domitius he deliberately runs over a child playing with a doll. At the Roman Forum, Domitius rips out the eye of an equestrian because the man openly criticizes him. Women Scientists of the Ancient World Yumuktepe: Neolithic on the Med Prussian Blue - Delight of Artists & Poisoners Sylvia Rose Books Domitius cheats merchants and bankers, and as praetor, he helps himself to the prize money of victorious charioteers. Managers complain, but Domitius decrees future prizes will be paid on the spot. Domitius is also a lusty womanizer. Emperor Tiberius charges him with treason, adultery and incest with his sister and also with adultery with another noblewoman. Only the death of Tiberius and ascension of Caligula in 37 AD saves him. Nanaya - Goddess of Erotic Love Amazons - Warrior Women History & Myth Ancient Wild Predators - Eurasian Lion Sylvia Rose Books In 41 AD Agrippina's husband Domitius dies of edema while in Pyrgi, an Estruscan city. Agrippina is left a widow and wealthy woman. After the death of Agrippina's husband, Emperor Caligula seizes the inheritance of Agrippina's young son, Lucius (Nero). Later in 41 AD Emperor Caligula dies by assassination a plot driven by his personal bodyguards. His uncle Claudius takes the throne and is eager to restore respectability to the imperial family. Baltic Aetsi & the Roman Amber Texts Pagan Solstice Fests: Saturnalia Women of the Wild Hunt: Holle, Diana, Frigg Sylvia Rose Books He recalls Agrippina from exile, returns her son's inheritance, and seeks for her a worthy husband. Gaius Sallustius Passienus Crispus is a prominent figure in the Roman Empire. An important political and military ally, he holds the consulship twice. His wife Domitia is the emperor's cousin. Nonetheless it's more important to Claudius to clean up Agrippina's image. Passienus bows to Claudius' wishes. He divorces Domitia and becomes husband of Agrippina, as well as the stepfather of the future emperor Nero. Warrior Queen: Kriemhild of the Burgundians Mulberry Tree (Morus): Uses, Folklore & Myth Cleopatra the Physician of Greece Passienus is a prosperous man. He holds esteemed positions and his fortune is valued at two hundred million sestertii. Agrippina convinces him to name her as his heir. He dies by apparent poisoning c. 47 AD. Agrippina's uncle Claudius, brother to her father Germanicus, becomes Emperor after the assassination of Caligula. Claudius' third wife, Messalina, plots against him and is executed in 48 AD. Honey Mead: Most Ancient Ambrosia Arcadia - Greek Lands of Ancient Gods Electrum: Metal of Money & Myth Sylvia Rose Books In 49 AD Agrippina charms her way into marriage with Claudius. She's his fourth wife, and he her third husband. She pressures Claudius to adopt Nero as his son. Claudius adopts the boy in 50 AD and has gold coins issued in commemoration. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries In early years, Agrippina cares deeply about Nero, or at least his potential. He's a sensitive youth and easily led. In 53 AD, when Nero is 15, she arranges his wedding to Claudius' daughter Octavia, aged 13 or 14, in calculated opposition to the Emperor's son Britannicus. Visigoths, King Alaric & the Ruin of Rome Lead: Death Metal of Metallurgy Brunhilde: Tragic Germanic Warrior Queen Sylvia Rose Books As Empress, Agrippina successfully removes the tutors of Claudius' sons. She replaces them with her own hand-picked tutors. She also convinces Claudius to replace two prefects of the Praetorian Guard, as she knows they support Brittanicus. This canny forethought allows Nero to assume power without incident, when in 54 AD Emperor Claudius falls suddenly ill and dies. Rumor has it his demise is by Amanita phalloides or death cap mushroom poisoning. Wild Women and Winter Tales Queen Eleanor & the Calamitous Crusade Fänggen (Fangga): Man-Eaters of Tyrol Sylvia Rose Books Poison in Ancient Rome Back to Top In ancient Rome, nature provides the most poisons. Plants and extracts used by poisoners include belladonna alkaloids such as henbane, datura, deadly nightshade and mandrake monk's hood, aka aconitum or wolf's bane; hemlock, the plant believed to have killed Socrates; hellebore, all parts; can cause allergic reaction if handled colchicum, sometimes confused with wild garlic yew, fatal even in small quantities opium, opiates, poppy seeds of Papaver somniferum mushrooms: death cap (Amanita phalloides); destroying angel (Amanita bisporigera) Der Türst: Dread Huntsman & the Wild Hunt Al-Mi'raj: Unicorn Hare of Arab Myth Mad Honey - What's the Buzz? Sylvia Rose Books Some poisonous plants have to potential to be medicinal in the right dosage or herbal preparation. Plant poisons are used by royals, imperials and elites as methods of assassination. Consumed by humans and other animals, they can cause painful death. At age seventeen, Nero takes the throne as Emperor of Rome, with his young wife Octavia as Empress. Nero and Octavia dislike each other intensely. Plant Lore: Stinking Nightshade, Henbane Pretty Poisons: Holly, Yew, Mistletoe Lora Ley Adventures - Feast of Fools Sylvia Rose Books As Nero gets older, he resents the domineering ways of his mother. He feels she is using him to retain her status as Empress, and he's right. Agrippina soon suspects treachery. Three times Nero tries to poison her. She has faithful spies. Each time she discovers or guesses his intentions, and takes the antidote before consuming food or drink. She's at the height of power as Empress Dowager, and she seems invincible. Arsenic: Murderous Metal & Miracle Cure Hesperus (Vesper) the Evening Star Ambrosia: Divine Nectar & Immortal Gods Sylvia Rose Books Nero & Poppaea Back to Top Nero becomes Emperor after the death of Claudius in 54 AD. Nero's main rival Britannicus, son of Claudius, dies of poisoning at his own banquet in 55 AD. Suspicion turns to Nero, who attributes the death of Britannicus to epilepsy. Poppaea Sabina is a woman with ambition. In 44 AD, at fourteen years old she enters an arranged marriage with Rufrius Crispinus, leader of the Praetorian Guard of Emperor Claudius. Lucifer, Venus & Anti-Gods of Mythology Phosphorus: Element of Fatal Fascination Amazing Legacy of Alexander von Humboldt Sylvia Rose Books Rufrius is removed from his station by the Empress Agrippina the Younger. Agrippina considers Rufius loyal to the memory of Messalina, Claudius' third wife. Also, Nero hates him. Later, under Nero, he's executed. Poppaea marries Otho, a good friend of the new Emperor Nero, seven years younger than she. According to Tacitus, Poppaea marries Otho only to get close to Nero. Nero falls madly in love with Poppaea, and she becomes his mistress. Reiker For Hire, Victorian Era & Nixies Bizilla - Shining Love Goddess Sukkal Suri (Śuri): Ancient Etruscan Fire God Sylvia Rose Books Poppaea divorces Otho c. 58 AD and sets her sights on becoming Nero's next wife. Her ex-husband is sent to Lusitania in Portugal as governor. In Rome divorce is simple. Just as marriage is a statement of intent to live together, divorce is a declaration of a couple's intent not to live together. Legally they must state their wish to divorce, in front of seven witnesses. Mythic Fire Gods: Hephaestus of the Greek Sphinx - Mythical Monster of Ancients Gnomes: Earth Spirits of Renaissance Mythology Sylvia Rose Books History is uncertain whether Poppaea induces Nero to murder his mother Agrippina in 59 AD but considering the situation it's highly possible. Some historians suggest Nero's desire to murder Agrippina is incited by her scheme to set his second cousin on the throne. Assassination of Agrippina Back to Top Poppaea taunts Nero for being a "mommy's boy", increasing his resentment toward Agrippina. Later Roman writer Tacitus belittles him for being "ruled by a woman". One way or another, Nero is finally sick of being oppressed by his ruthless and calculating mother. Song of the Loreley - Lethal Beauty Women of Alchemy - Mary the Jewess Lamashtu, Baby-Eating Demon of Mesopotamia Sylvia Rose Books When his poisoning attempts fail, in 59 AD he has her royal barge rigged to fall apart at sea, and bribes the crew generously. Stories vary from a collapsing lead ceiling on her barge to an opening at the bottom of the boat. The ceiling catches on a couch and doesn't crush her; or the boat doesn't fall apart as envisioned. Despite efforts of crew to sink the barge and drown her, Agrippina escapes and swims to shore. She hides among peasant girls in a nearby village. Castle Frankenstein - Legend & Lore Is Cherry Laurel Poisonous? Rhododendron & the Toxic Ambrosia Sylvia Rose Books Meanwhile, a friend who's with her on the barge thrashes in the water screaming "I am Agrippina," hoping for rescue. Instead she's speared and bludgeoned to death by crewmen. Agrippina has a double canine tooth in her upper right jaw. Roman naturalist and philosopher Pliny the Elder considers this a mark of good fortune. Luck seems be on her side as Agrippina hides in the peasant village. Ornithomancy - Prophecy by the Birds Giresun (Aretias): Isle of the Amazons Ancient Grains: Wheat, Barley, Millet, Rice Sylvia Rose Books Then again, Pliny the Elder also believes clear quartz to be permanently frozen water. Agrippina's luck doesn't hold out for long. Nero gets word of her whereabouts and sends three blade-wielding assassins to do the job. This attempt ends in success for Nero. According to observers Agrippina's last words were "Smite my womb", taken to mean "a curse upon the evil I birthed". Rhinestones: Treasures of the Rhine Steam & Style - Agrippina of the Rhine Mugwort (Wormwood) Herbal Lore Sylvia Rose Books Her body is cremated soon after. As news of her death spreads through the Empire, Nero receives letters of congratulations from the Roman army, senate and others for his freedom from his mother's plots. According to historian Miriam T. Griffins, "Nero lost all sense of right and wrong and listened to flattery with total credulity" after Agrippina's death in 59. For the rest of his life, Nero believes he's haunted by the undead spirit of his mother. Wiedergänger - the German Undead Sinope: Poison, Honey, Greeks & Clay Pagan Solstice Fests: Mithras & the Sun Sylvia Rose Books Poppaea Sabina is another Roman schemer with her eye on the throne. Some historians believe her to be motivation for Agrippina's death. She convinces Nero to divorce Octavia on the grounds of infertility, and banish her to an island. Octavia was a popular queen. Due to uprisings by the people, Nero thinks she's better off dead. In June 62 soldiers arrive on the island with an execution order. Octavia meets her demise at the age of 22. Poppaea immediately marries Nero. Nature Spirits of German Mythology Chamomile - Herbology & Folklore Lammašaga: Sumerian Angel Goddess Sylvia Rose Books End of a Dynasty Back to Top Although he initially tries to raise the Roman Empire to its accustomed heights of glory with exploration and artistic patronage, Nero's reign is tenuous. Known for a personal love of cruelty, a trait of his birth father, he brutally tortures and executes his perceived enemies. Nero is also suspected of starting the Great Fire of Rome in 64. Tales differ. After the fire, Nero has the apostle Paul beheaded for trying to convert the imperial family. He rounds up the Christians and burns them alive. Agrippina's legacy is coming to a close. Baal Cycle - Myths of Ba'al Hadad Soap & Medicine Herb of Ancients Yarrow (Achillea) Magic & Medicine Sylvia Rose Books In 68, while he's away, the senate votes Nero an enemy of the state. Abandoned by his guards and attendants, he finds four loyal men and they flee the town. He asks them to dig him a grave as he intends suicide saying, "The artist within me must die." He loses his nerve and asks one of his retainers to kill himself first. When that doesn't happen, Nero begs them to kill him as he fears to do it himself. One obliges, and the first horseman of the search party arrives as the last of Nero's life bleeds into the ground. The Strange Case of Rudolf Diesel Cyprus: Prehistoric Humans & Pygmy Hippos Amethyst - Divine Purple Quartz Gemstone Sylvia Rose Books The deaths of Agrippina and Nero mark the end of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. The dynasty begins in 27 BCE with Augustus, founder of the Roman Empire, followed by Tiberius, Caligula and Claudius, and ends with Nero in 68 AD. Kish: Glory Days in Ancient Babylonia Heqet, Frog Goddess of Egypt White Pigments of Ancient Artisans Back to Top

Zis of Thrace is the first god of creation, with mother goddess Bendis. HIs adventures are many as he fills roles of creator god, horse warrior and hero of the Thracians. He's both a celestial and chthonic or Underworld figure. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure Thrace - Tribal Mythology & Lore Solnitsata - Neolithic Salt Trade Town Slavic River Spirits & Roman Gods Sylvia Rose Books The Thracian world concept is attested from the early Bronze Age c. 3000 BCE. The four elements Air, Earth, Fire, Water make up the known world. Thracian cosmology, often in the form of ancient poems and hymns, is passed down through oral tradition. The Thracians have a strong Sun Cult. Symbols of the Sun adorn everyday objects and art. Over 600 stone circles, representations of the Sun dating to the 11th century BCE, are carved into rocks of the eastern Rhodope Mountains. Sun Goddesses of World Mythology Yazilikaya: Sacred Site of the Hittites Dniester River Neolithic Civilization Sylvia Rose Books Zis is the Thracian manifestation of Indo-European sky-god Dyḗus ph₂tḗr. Also known as Zi, Zis, Dis, and Tis, he's son and consort of Bendis, Great Mother of the Gods. With Bendis Zis is central to Thracian religion. Sometimes he's shown with three heads. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure As the embodiment of the male principle, Zis incorporates both celestial and chthonic elements, symbolizing Sun and Fire. In contrast to the distinct roles and images of Greek gods, Zis reigns as a universal deity of omnipotence, revered by all Thracian tribes. Ancient Deities: Proto Indo European Gods Cypriot Copper & Ancient Cyprus Thrace - Warfare, Slavery & Music Sylvia Rose Books His multi-faceted and enigmatic nature appears in his solar, chthonic, and heroic forms. Zis is the Sun as well as guardian of the Underworld. A benign patron of mortals, he ensures life, health, and protection against malevolent forces. In his role of storm and thunder god, Zis is given the epithet Zbelthurdos, meaning "lightning thrower" and "lightning bearer." The Apsinthii tribe of south central Thrace venerates Zis as a universal household god known as Pleistorus. Mugwort (Wormwood) Herbal Lore Amazons - Warrior Women History & Myth Curonian Freshwater Baltic Sea Lagoon Sylvia Rose Books According to Herodotus, Pleistoros is a Thracian deity also revered by the Gauls and the tribe Apsintieni as god of war. According to Josephus Flavius, the Dacian Thracians give human sacrifice to Pleistoros. As Zis is a primordial deity and first god of creation, his worship extends throughout the Thracian lands. He's known as Zis Batas (Zis the Thunderer) is often associated with Ares, and also has a local name in every tribe or settlement. Ornithomancy - Prophecy by the Birds Giresun (Aretias): Isle of the Amazons Black Sea: Stone Age & Early History Sylvia Rose Books Reflecting the Thracian tradition of adopting Greek god names for their own deities, various aspects of Zis are equated with and named after Dionysus, Apollo, Asclepius, Ares, Silvanus, and other Graeco-Roman gods, depending on his aspect. The Arean Zis As a divine warrior, Zis equates with the War God. Greeks identify Thrace with Ares due to the warlike Thracian disposition. In the 7th century BCE, Greek poet Archilochus hails the Thracians as the "gods of battle". Vistula River: Early Tribes & Trade Neolithic Salt & Brine Works Europe Bronze Age Europe - the Amber Roads Sylvia Rose Books The Arean Zis has a lupine nature. The god's epithets, reflecting his association with the wolf, include Zērúnthios meaning "bestial" or "rich in game". Among the Thracians' Crestonian neighbors, this deity is known as Kandáōn meaning "dog-strangler". According to the Greek poet Lycophron, the Thracian "Ares" resembles a wolf. Werewolf & Werewolves of Germany Ullikummi - Rock Monster of Legend Lotan - Chaos Sea Dragon of Ugarit Sylvia Rose Books Scythians and Thracians venerate their war gods through ritual swords, such as the akankes (acinaces). An eagle grasping a snake is engraved on a Thracian bronze akinakes-type sword found in Medgidia. Zis the Hero The Arean aspect of Zis also has a Heroic manifestation. Described as the Thracian Hero or the Thracian Horseman, he's portrayed as a horseback hunter. The horse, revered by many civilizations including the Thracians, symbolizes the Sun-god and the underworld. Stone Age Botai - First Horse People Hippomancy: Sacred Horse Divination Queen Eleanor & the Calamitous Crusade Sylvia Rose Books It remains the steadfast companion of the solar-chthonic deity Zis, who's always shown on horseback. Zis the Horse god is associated with aristocracy and royalty. He aligns with the horse as a sign of political, economic and military might within the tribal elite. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure Thracian nobles and their entourage ride horses, while common warriors do not. Tribes such as the Odrysae exclusively enlist cavalry from their own society and foot soldiers from neighboring tribes. Women of the Wild Hunt: Holle, Diana, Frigg Der Türst: Dread Huntsman & the Wild Hunt The Wild Hunt - a novella by Sylvia Rose Sylvia Rose Books The privilege of hunting on horseback is reserved for royalty among Mycenaeans, Thracians, and West Asian cultures. Heroes and gods, depicted in Hittite, Babylonian, Assyrian and Achaemenian art, do battle with Chaos creatures real and mythical. Zis and the Chaos Dragon The Hero Zis boldly upholds the world order and the natural course of life through relentless combat against the forces of evil. He embarks on an epic odyssey along a mystical path fraught with peril, facing unforeseen adversaries. Mushussu - Snake Dragon Animal of Marduk Enuma Elish: Marduk & the Chaos Monsters Žaltys: Sacred Snake & Serpent Queen Sylvia Rose Books Zis bravely confronts a multi-headed serpent dragon symbolizing Chaos. Its name, Zumludrēnos, means "water dragon." An epic battle of order and chaos, the Chaoskampf is heroic proof of courage and strength, and essential maintenance of natural harmony. The hero must kill the monster or force it to free obstructed waters, return stolen livestock or release abducted women. This pivotal quest secures the prosperity of the land and the perpetuation of the human race. Apep - Primal Chaos God of Egypt 12 Days of Zagmuk: Chaos & the King Pistachio: Turpentine, Resin & Nuts Sylvia Rose Books In Thrace the expedition also symbolizes the young warrior's evolution from youth to adulthood. It represents as well the Thracian prince's ascension to kingship. The Boar Hunt The battle of Hero Zis against a ferocious boar trying to dig up the roots of the Tree of Life is analogous to the god's struggle with the Chaos-dragon. The fight against Chaos represents preservation of humanity and natural order through rebirth and reproduction. Lindwyrm, Mare & Pig Demons: German Myth Baltic Ancient Mythology & Folklore Aetsi: Boars, Snakes & Baltic Amber Sylvia Rose Books The tree, ever in greenery, is a Thracian Tree of Life representing the rebirth of Nature. The boar is sacred to War God Ares. In Thrace the wild boar is a symbol of death, as well as of Chaos, both qualities of Ares. In many beliefs the wild boar is also a symbol of symbol of fertility, virility and the warrior spirit. In ancient Thrace the boar hunt is a trial of initiation in which success is thought to ensure the continuance of the royal dynasty. European Grass Snake: Nature & Lore Periwinkle: Magic & Medicine of Europe Wild Boar (Sus scrofa) Nature & Lore Sylvia Rose Books By slaying the boar by the Tree of Life, Zis ensures continuance of life cycles, connecting him to rebirth of nature and protection of world order. In some versions an altar stands between the god and the boar, and a snake is coiled on the Tree of Life. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure The snake represents nature awakening in spring. The shedding of skins by snakes relates to rebirth and eternal life. By destroying the ravaging boar and saving the Tree of Life, the Hero wins immortality. Ambrosia: Divine Nectar & Immortal Gods Immortal - Quest for the Elixir of Life Elixir of Life: Alchemy & the Emperor Sylvia Rose Books The Wolf Fight The Arean or Heroic Zis is depicted in finds such as the Letnitsa Treasure as a mounted hero preparing to fight a bear after killing a wolf. Like the boar, bears and wolves also represent the warrior spirit. The scene represents the Hero as a protector against evil, also has similarities to the test of valor through which the god, and the Thracian prince, attain kingship. The Wolf Fight is analogous to the struggle against the Chaos-dragon, and the Boar Hunt. Wolpertinger - German Myths & Folklore Gargari: Men of the Amazon Warriors Kothar (Kothar-wa-Khasis) Artisan God Sylvia Rose Books A young Thracian Hero's opponents include the lion, bear, wolf and panther, all animals considered royal. Initiates are to learn from the hunting skills of these animals. In legend, their defeat brings the hunter glory and the animal's powers transfer to him. The Thracians view religion and myths in the present rather than as stories of the ancient past. No difference between the mythical and heroic past and the present appears in Thracian religion. Zis performs his deeds in the present, on another level. Lake Van: Fate of a Primeval Salt Lake Stymphalian Birds & Greek Heroics Mahaleb Cherry: Spice, Nature & Myth Sylvia Rose Books The cult of Zis Batas is regarded as the male counterpart to the Underworld cults of mysteries linked to Demeter and Kore (later Persephone). They come from Arcadia, central Peloponnese Peninsula in Greece. Night Raven (Nachtkrapp) Germania Arcadia - Greek Lands of Ancient Gods Al-Mi'raj: Unicorn Hare of Arab Myth Back to Top

Wolfsbane, monk's hood (Aconitum) delivers a lethal dose of poison. In the ancient world, poison plays a vital part, from death by elixir of life, conspiracies of the rich and ambitious to acts of honor. There are about 250 species of Aconitum, and most are poisonous. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure Poison Hemlock: Herbology & Lore Herbology & Lore: Death Cap Mushrooms Is Cherry Laurel Poisonous? Sylvia Rose Books Also called leopard's bane or blue rocket, Aconitum grows in alpine meadows, preferring higher elevations with moist but well-drained soil. It's found almost exclusively in the Northern Hemisphere. The Greek term akòniton means "poisonous plant". READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series In the first century BCE, the Chinese Empress Xu dies from Aconitum poisoning administered by her obstetrician, Chun Yuyang. The death of Empress Xu is a tragic byproduct of a complex conspiracy beginning before she is born. Chun Yuyan & Death of Empress Xu Chinese Alchemical Elixir Poisoning Quest for Immortality - Qin Shi Huang Sylvia Rose Books Monkshood and other members of the genus Aconitum contain substantial amounts of the highly toxic aconitine and related alkaloids. While all parts of the plant contain toxins, poisons are especially concentrated in the thick tubers or roots. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries As little as 2 mg of aconite or 1 g of plant may cause death from respiratory paralysis or heart failure. Aconitine is a potent neurotoxin and cardiotoxin. A sudden rush of sodium to the heart and nerve channels can cause immediate symptoms and swift painful death. Agrippina & Son: Poisonous Plots of Rome Pretty Poisons: Holly, Yew, Mistletoe Destroying Angel: Nature's Deadly Poison Sylvia Rose Books Toxicity of the plant is known from early times. Ancient warriors dip their spears and arrowheads in Aconitum toxin for more death-dealing prowess on the battlefield. In natural medicine people use aconite for heart failure, asthma, hair loss and diarrhea. READ: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure In homeopathy, it's used medicinally to treat fear, anxiety and restlessness; acute sudden fever; symptoms from exposure to hot and arid or cold and damp climates. It's also a remedy for tingling, numbness; flu or colds with congestion; and throbbing headaches. Ancient Egypt Remedies: Ebers Papyrus Khella - Ancient Health & Herbology Reishi or Lingzhi - Mushroom Magic Sylvia Rose Books The tubers of wolfsbane or monkshood are fleshy and swollen, resembling turnip. This characteristic is the basis for the species name “napellus”, as napus is Latin for turnip. The Greek name of the plant, lycoctonum, means wolf's bane. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series On arrows or in bait, it's used to kill wolves, bears and other predators. According to legend, werewolves become aware of their transformation by ingesting a potion of Aconitum. It's in the same plant family as the hellebores. Black Hellebore: Toxins, Health & Lore Rhododendron & the Toxic Ambrosia Veratrum album - Tragic Toxins Sylvia Rose Books Symptoms of Aconitum poisoning include: headache diarrhea nausea vomiting numbness, tingling, burning in face, especially the mouth abdominal pain and burning weakness difficulty breathing sweating dizziness confusion tingling and numbness in the limbs low blood pressure irregular heartbeat convulsions death Elixir of Life: Alchemy & the Emperor Grayanotoxins: the Madness of Honey Nigella Sativa: Black Seed of Healers Sylvia Rose Books Causes of death are heart failure or respiratory collapse. Skin contact with plant toxins can cause mild allergic or toxicity symptoms such as a rash, nervous effects such as shaking, or feelings of illness. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Poisoning is counter-acted by treatment of symptoms. The major physiological antidote is atropine, which is used to treat bradycardia. Charcoal treatment can help relieve stomach problems. Wandering Womb - Ancient Medicine Nature Spirits of German Mythology Plant Lore: Stinking Nightshade, Henbane Sylvia Rose Books Monkshood is most often blue to deep purple. Yellow monkshood (Aconitium anthora) is also known as "healing wolfsbane". Yellow monkshood root contains high levels of volatile salt and essential oil. Foliage and stems carry diterpenoid alkaloids (terpenoid derivatives). It's used in poultices against rheumatism and deep pain, but can irritate the skin. The name anthora or "against thora" comes from the plant's reputation as antidote to poisons of 'thora' or deadly toxic Doronicum pardalianches. Curse of the Evil Eye & Apotropaic Magic Edelweiss: Alpine Flower of True Love Herbs & Natural Remedies - Ancient Egypt Sylvia Rose Books Taken internally, yellow monkshood Aconitium anthora has been used to treat weak pulse, vegetable poisons, feverish colds, pneumonia, croup and other respiratory ailments, heart conditions and cardiac arrest. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series In traditional Chinese and Indian medicine, practitioners assert they've found methods to process monkshood so that it's safe to use. Medical uses of monkshood root include Internally as a sedative Internally to induce sweating and lower fever during illness Internally to slow heart rate in cases of heart palpitations and heart swelling Topically as a local anesthetic Herbology & Lore - Chamomile The Mystic Victorian - Fortune Telling Hyssop - Magic & Medicine Herb Lore Sylvia Rose Books In 183 BC, Carthaginian general Hannibal commits suicide with a potion of aconite and hemlock. According to legend he conceals the deadly potion in one of his rings, and takes it to escape capture by the Romans. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries In the Middle Ages, Aconitum is associated with black magic and lycanthropy. It's considered to repel demons, evil elf magic, witches, malevolent spirits and especially werewolves. Werewolf & Werewolves of Germany German Vampires - Nachzehrer Baba Yaga - Slavic Forest Witch Sylvia Rose Books At the time it may be prescribed to people with hypertrichosis, also known as werewolf syndrome. Hypertrichosis is characterized by excessive hair growth on face and body, similar to the idea of a person turning into a werewolf. The drug Dimethylhexylamine (DMHA) may be mislabeled "Aconitum kusnezoffi" or "aconite extract" and mistaken for Aconitum. DMHA is thought to have stimulant effects similar to decongestants such as ephedrine and others but is not considered safe. Ephedra - Oldest Medical Stimulant Herb Folk Magic: Fly Agaric (Amanita muscaria) Pagan Solstice Fests: Saturnalia Sylvia Rose Books Aconitum also has a place in the garden catalogue, as various hybrids are bred for their bold beauty including red and pink versions. Several hybrid species are listed In the UK and have gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. In legend the plant comes from the saliva of Cerberus, the Greek 3-headed dog guarding the gates of Hades. One of the tasks of Heracles is to bring the canine to King Eurystheus. Where the saliva of the beast drools to the ground, toxic Aconitum blooms. Stymphalian Birds & Greek Heroics Bosporus: Black Sea Nature & Greek Myth Fänggen (Fangga): Man-Eaters of Tyrol Sylvia Rose Books In Greek mythology, this is the twelfth and final Labor of Heracles for King Eurystheus. The Twelve Labors are performed by Heracles to atone for killing his family in a fit of madness. Cleopatra the Physician of Greece Baltic Amber - Gold of the North Elderberry Tree: Germanic Nature Lore Back to Top

Chinese alchemical elixir poisoning in ancient China is generally a death of the rich. Poisoning occurs over time or swiftly, caused by consuming the coveted elixirs of immortality. Many contain arsenic, mercury and/or hallucinogens like fly agaric. Read: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure Anqi Sheng & the Elixir of Immortality Alchemy: Science, Philosophy, Magic Ambrosia: Divine Nectar & Immortal Gods Sylvia Rose Books The word elixir originates in medieval European alchemy meaning "a preparation by use of which it's sought to change metals to gold" (elixir stone or philosopher's stone) or "a drug or essence with the property of indefinitely prolonging life" (elixir of life; youth elixir). READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series The term is extended to mean a sovereign remedy for disease, and the quintessence or soul of a thing; its kernel or secret principle. In modern usage, elixir is a pharmaceutical term for "A sweetened aromatic solution of alcohol and water, serving as a vehicle for medicine". Folk Magic: Fly Agaric (Amanita muscaria) Mercury (Quicksilver): Miracle Metal of Alchemy Elixir of Life: Alchemy & the Emperor Sylvia Rose Books The first known case of Chinese alchemical elixir poisoning is Qin Shi Huang (Qin Shihuang) who dies in significant torment after drinking a mixture of liquid mercury and powdered jade. It's a mystery why the Emperor drinks the fatal brew. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Qin Shihuang has a history of escaping assassination attempts only through extreme paranoia. He's known to make alchemists drink their own potions, then bury them alive to see if the potions work. Reishi or Lingzhi - Mushroom Magic Immortal - Quest for the Elixir of Life What is the Philosopher's Stone? Sylvia Rose Books He travels with decoy carriages, which saves his life once, when assassins attack the wrong coach. In 211 BCE a large meteor hits earth in Dongjun on the Yellow River. Upon it someone writes: "The First Emperor will die and his land will be divided" (始皇死而地分). The Emperor sends an imperial secretary to investigate this affront. As no one will confess to the deed, all who live nearby are killed, and the stone is pulverized to gravel. The next year, the prophecy comes true. Jade - Jadeite, Nephrite & Jade Roads Lora Ley Adventures - Feast of Fools Baltic Amber - Gold of the North Sylvia Rose Books Chinese Alchemy Chinese alchemy is a widespread methodology and study. As described in original texts like the Cantong qi, it delves into the body's role within cosmological processes, described by the agents of change known as Wuxing, five phases or five elements. By studying and nurturing these elements, practitioners are guided towards achieving alignment and harmony with the Tao. Pao zhi (炮制; Pao chi) or Processing (Chinese materia medica) is used in traditional Chinese medicine. Mad Honey - What's the Buzz? Honey Mead: Most Ancient Ambrosia Cypriot Copper & Ancient Cyprus Sylvia Rose Books Alchemical processing methods include roasting with toxic metals such as mercury, lead and arsenic; honey or wine frying. Alchemy focuses on longevity, purification of spirit, mind and body. With Qigong and Wuxingheqidao one can attain long life, health and wisdom. Dān 丹 "cinnabar; vermillion; elixir; alchemy" is the keyword for Chinese immortality elixirs. The red mineral cinnabar is used in ancient times to produce the pigment vermilion and the element mercury (shuǐyín 水銀 "watery silver"). Red Madder: Organic Ancient Colors Silver - Queen of Precious Metals Alchemist Dippel: the Frankenstein Files Sylvia Rose Books In early China, alchemists and pharmacists are the same people. Chinese alchemy isn't introduced to the West until the early 20th century. Philosophies of many aspects greater as the whole, transmutation and use of toxins, are similar to alchemic practices elsewhere. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series While Asian, Egyptian, European and other philosophies are founded independently and develop according to regional history and culture, they share a desire to find an elixir of life. In all cultures alchemy is used in medicine. Black Hellebore: Toxins, Health & Lore Saffron - Most Precious Ancient Spice Primeval Deities: Goddess of the Dawn Sylvia Rose Books The forerunner of alchemy is metallurgy. In healing, traditional Chinese medicine uses lower concentrations of cinnabar and mercury. Dan also means "pill; medicine" and is found in medical terms such as dānjì 丹劑 "pill preparation" and dānyào 丹藥 "pill medicine". Chinese names for immortality elixirs have parallels in other cultures and languages. These include the Indo-Iranian soma or haoma; Sanskrit amrita; and Greek ambrosia. Cleopatra the Alchemist of Greece Women of Alchemy - Mary the Jewess Myth & Metallurgy - Metals of Antiquity Sylvia Rose Books The tradition of using toxic heavy metals in elixirs of immortality also appears in Ayurvedic medicine. Rasa shastra is the practice of adding metals and minerals to herbal medicines. Natural heavy metals in the body include cobalt, copper and manganese. Rasayana is an alchemical method using mercury and cinnabar for longevity. Raseśvara is a tradition advocating the use of mercury to make the body immortal, and samskara is a process said to detoxify heavy metals and toxic herbs. Is Cherry Laurel Poisonous? Grayanotoxins: the Madness of Honey Veratrum album - Tragic Toxins Sylvia Rose Books Certain metals such as gold and silver are edible and considered to have healing effects. Silver has microbial properties, and gold is once used to skin infections or seizures. Trace amounts of silver and gold occur naturally in the human body. Historians of Chinese science Joseph Needham and Ho Peng-Yoke write about poisonous alchemical elixirs. Based upon early Chinese descriptions of elixir poisoning, they show a connection with known medical symptoms of mercury, lead and arsenic poisoning. Lead: Death Metal of Metallurgy Sprites: Ethereal Creatures of Faerie Crocodilopolis - Sobek Crocodile God Sylvia Rose Books Historical descriptions include those of Jin Emperor Ai (d. 365) who "no longer knew what was going on around him" and Tang Emperor Wuzong (d. 846) who was "very irritable, losing all normal self-control in joy or anger ... he could not speak for ten days at a time". In the case of Wuzong distinctive psychological effects of mercury poisoning appear. They progress from "abnormal irritability to idiotic, melancholic, or manic conditions". Castle Frankenstein - Legend & Lore Neolithic Salt & Brine Works Europe Wild Boar (Sus scrofa) Nature & Lore Needham and Lu's research shows many alchemical mineral preparations give an "initial exhilaration" or transient sense of well-being, usually involving weight loss and increased libido. These preliminary tonic effects can act to hook the user into deeper forms of intoxication, risky experiments and substance overdose. Even the possibility of a painful death does not dissuade adamant and extremely rich elixir hunters. Arsenic: Murderous Metal & Miracle Cure Zis - Ancient Warrior Hero God Thrace Werewolf & Werewolves of Germany Sylvia Rose Books Chinese medical texts record realgar (arsenic disulphide) and orpiment (arsenic trisulphide) as aphrodisiacs and fertility stimulants. Cinnabar and sulfur elixirs aid longevity, avert hunger and "lighten the body" (qīngshēn 輕身, a common description of elixir effects). Wine is prescribed with elixir pills, sometimes to relieve effects of poisoning. Elixir alchemy might also include hallucinogenic drugs. The busi zhi yao 不死之藥 "drug of deathlessness" is thought to be fly agaric and busi zhi shu 不死之樹 "tree of deathlessness" is birch. Lead White & Minium Red: Colors to Die For Sulfur - Treasures of the Underworld Orpiment - Painter's Golden Poison Sylvia Rose Books Zhou Ziliang, student of the eminent Tao Hongjing commits ritual suicide by alchemical elixir poisoning. At the time of his death he's twenty years old and renowned as a visionary. He believes the Gods are calling him to leave his body early and join them as an Immortal. Read: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure According to research, the elixir taken by Zhou Ziliang to commit suicide "probably had hallucinogenic and toxic mushrooms" among other components. Toxic mushrooms are also a popular poisoning method in Nero's Rome. Agrippina & Son: Poisonous Plots of Rome Herbology & Lore: Death Cap Mushrooms Women of the Wild Hunt: Holle, Diana, Frigg Sylvia Rose Books The last recorded victim of Chinese alchemical elixir poisoning is Emperor Yongzheng (d. 1735 CE). For over two thousand years, fangshi method masters and Daoist alchemists persevere in the quest for the elixir of immortality. Thrace - Tribal Mythology & Lore Old Prussians of the Baltic Coast Cinnamon - Spice Trade of Ancients Back to Top

Qin Shihuang (Qin Shi Huang) is China's first Emperor. He ascends to the throne as King at age 13 in 246 BCE. Twenty five years later he conquers the Warring States and names himself Emperor. He becomes the first known victim of Chinese alchemical elixir poisoning. Read: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure Chinese Alchemical Elixir Poisoning Anqi Sheng & the Elixir of Immortality Jade - Jadeite, Nephrite & Jade Roads Sylvia Rose Books Construction of his tomb begins when he ascends to the throne at age 13 in c. 245 BCE. As he's too young to have any real power, it's commissioned by his regent Lü Buwei, a one-time merchant and influential political figure embroiled in subterfuge and murder. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series Around the same time, as a practice Chinese alchemy is bursting into flower as Qin Shihuang rises to power in the 3rd century BCE. Alchemy evolves from earlier metallurgy, and is the predecessor of chemistry. Alchemy: Science, Philosophy, Magic Ambrosia: Divine Nectar & Immortal Gods Immortal - Quest for the Elixir of Life Sylvia Rose Books Qin Shi Huang is not born to rule. Initially named Ying Zheng, he becomes King of Qin through machinations of his mother, consort of wealthy merchant Lü Buwei, who both conspire to place his father on the throne and make Qin the rightful heir. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries His father reigns for three years and dies abruptly at age 34. With Lü Buwei as regent, thirteen-year-old Qin Shi Huang becomes king. Seven years later he banishes Lü Buwei and takes full control. Elixir of Life: Alchemy & the Emperor Is Cherry Laurel Poisonous? Reishi or Lingzhi - Mushroom Magic Sylvia Rose Books After a failed coup attempt in 238 BCE, Lü Buwei commits suicide in 235 BCE by drinking poisoned wine. In 221 BCE the last King of Qin becomes Qin Shihuang, the first Emperor of a unified China. After taking control of the Warring States Qin Shihuang orders construction linking segments of the the Great Wall of China. The fortifications are meant to protect China from frequent raids by the nomadic Xiongnu, ancestors of the notorious Huns. Zis - Ancient Warrior Hero God Thrace Honey Bees (Apidae): Nature & Myth Mugwort (Wormwood) Herbal Lore Sylvia Rose Books He brings in economic reforms, standardized measurements and monumental statuary. Qin Shi Huang eliminates the Hundred Schools of Thought. Legalism or fajia becomes the mandatory ideology of the Qin dynasty, based on punishment and reward. As Qin passes his fortieth year he feels the ebb of his youthful vigor. The death of his favorite concubine and others around him brings thoughts of his own mortality. He has the power to conquer all of China, but will grow old and die like the common laborer in the field. Cypriot Copper & Ancient Cyprus Myth & Metallurgy - Metals of Antiquity Lora Ley Adventures - Feast of Fools Sylvia Rose Books Death terrifies the Emperor. He consults court sorcerer and alchemist, Xu Fu (Hsu Fu). Alchemy's great pursuit is the discovery of an elixir of immortality, a panacea for healing all disease, and the transmutation of base metals to gold. READ: Lora Ley Adventures - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series In ancient China immortality takes precedence. In regions where reincarnation is the popular belief, it's less important. For the Emperor Qin, immortality is crucial. Honey Mead: Most Ancient Ambrosia Ephedra - Oldest Medical Stimulant Herb Song of the Loreley - Lethal Beauty Sylvia Rose Books In the Bohai Sea, the furthest inland gulf of the Yellow Sea, are several divine mountain islands. The primary three, homes of gods and Immortals, are Fangzhang, Yingzhou and Penglai. On Penglai lives a wizard, Anqi Sheng (An Qisheng) who is a thousand years old. Anqi Sheng has the power to turn invisible. He holds the secret to the elixir of immortality. According the Emperor, the eminent mage pays him a visit. Mad Honey - What's the Buzz? Opium Poppy (Papaver somnifum) White Ladies in German Mythology Sylvia Rose Books For three days and nights the Emperor converses with the invisible Anqi Sheng. He offers the magician gifts of gold and jade and other finery but Anqi has no use for these things. Qin Shi Huang is left frustrated and ever more desperate for the elixir. READ: Reiker For Hire - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries In 219 BCE he prepares a massive expedition to the island of Penglai, headed by Xu Fu. It's said to have a hundred of the finest sailing vessels, thousands of young men and women, sailors and artisans. For several years, Xu Fu sails in search of the island. Irrwurz or Mad Root: German Folklore Curse of the Evil Eye & Apotropaic Magic Alchemist Dippel: the Frankenstein Files Sylvia Rose Books During the extensive quest of Xu Fu, Emperor Qin Shi Huang recreates the mythic islands Penglai, Fangzhang and Yingzhou in the flow of landscape architecture of his royal demesnes. Within the walls of Epang Palace he's said to construct hills, lakes and imitations of the sea and islands. Organic designs carry the life force of nature and reinforce the ubiquitous theme of imperial immortality. Many Chinese gardens today have pools of similar design. Corycian Caves, Bee Nymphs & Greek Gods Ornithomancy - Prophecy by the Birds Gnomes: Earth Spirits of Renaissance Mythology Sylvia Rose Books In 214 BCE the Emperor starts Lingqu Canal, connecting north and south China, originally for military use. The canal, 34 km (21 mi) long, is one of the three great feats of ancient Chinese engineering, along with the Great Wall and Sichuan Dujiangyan Irrigation System. Qin Shi Huang also builds a system of tunnels and passages to each of his 200+ palaces. In this way he can travel unseen to protect him from evil spirits. When he makes public tours he has an identical decoy carriage made. It's justified as assassins attack the wrong coach. Vistula River: Early Tribes & Trade Bronze Age Europe - the Amber Roads Solnitsata - Neolithic Salt Trade Town Sylvia Rose Books Beginning 213 BCE, to avoid comparisons of his reign with the past, Qin Shi Huang orders most books to be burned, except those on astrology, agriculture, medicine, divination and history of the State of Qin. He has 460 scholars buried alive for owning banned books. In 211 BCE a large meteor falls in Dongjun in the lower Yellow River. Someone inscribes the message: "The First Emperor will die and his land will be divided" (始皇死而地分). Thrace - Warfare, Slavery & Music Destroying Angel: Nature's Deadly Poison Agrippina & Son: Poisonous Plots of Rome Sylvia Rose Books The Emperor sends an imperial secretary to investigate. No one confesses, so he has everyone living nearby executed. The stone is pulverized. Read: Cult of the Fire God - Bronze Age Quest Adventure Because of his desire for immortality, Qin Shi Huang is a target for schemers and charlatans as well as true believers. He makes the alchemists take their own elixir and buries them alive to find out if it works. It's a constant disappointment. Pretty Poisons: Holly, Yew, Mistletoe Amazing Legacy of Alexander von Humboldt German Myth & Folklore: Elves Sylvia Rose Books Qin Shi Huang visits Zhifu Island three times seeking the magical potion, due to rumors of a mountain of immortality there. Zhifu is an islet at the coast of China where the Yellow Sea meets the Bohai. Inscriptions of China's first Emperor are still visible today: "Arrived at Fu, and carved the stone" - 218 BCE (登之罘，刻石) "Came to Fu, saw an enormous stone, and shot one fish" - 210 BCE (至之罘，見巨石，射殺一魚) Places like Shihuang Avenue (始皇道 Shihuang Dao), and Fish-shooting Tower (射魚台 Sheyu Tai) on the island are named after the emperor. Baltic Amber - Gold of the North Seduction of Hedammu, Father of Snakes Tin Trade Routes - Ancient Networks Sylvia Rose Books Meanwhile, Xu Fu comes back from his mission empty-handed. He tells the Emperor a ferocious sea beast guards the entrance to the potion, and he needs archers to slay it. The Emperor provides them. Xu Fu sets sail once again in 210 BCE. He never returns to China. The Emperor meets death on one of his tours in 210 BCE. Despite his concern about assassination and adverse elixir effects he drinks a concoction of liquid mercury and powdered jade, and expires without a will. Mercury (Quicksilver): Miracle Metal of Alchemy Jet Black - Ancient World Gemstones Arsenic: Murderous Metal & Miracle Cure Sylvia Rose Books As he's on tour his attendants fear an uprising and decide to pretend he's still alive. They transport fish before and after his carriage to cover up the smell of his decomposing body. They change his clothes every day, bring him food and pretend to run messages. His death is announced when they arrive at Xianyang. In his tomb, it is said great mountains are built, from which run rivers of mercury, an alchemical essential of the elixir of eternal life. A vast army of terracotta warriors, horses and chariots populate the tomb. Aetsi: Boars, Snakes & Baltic Amber Cinnamon - Spice Trade of Ancients Cleopatra the Alchemist of Greece Sylvia Rose Books The terracotta warriors, bronze horses and chariots, acrobats, servants, musicians, monks and more are built from 246 BCE on, created to protect, serve and amuse the Emperor in the Afterlife. The tomb complex occupies a space of 50 sq km (20 sq mi). Elwetritsch Bird - German Myths & Folklore Sun Goddesses of World Mythology Romanesque - Magic of Light and Stone Back to Top