The Assassins

Emperor Domitian hates Christians. He isn't too fond of philosophers either. The Assassins will cut anyone's throat for a few pieces of gold, so that's no problem. The popular Heron of Alexandria is brash and outspoken. In addition to teaching school and building an aeolipile, history's first reaction motor, he has some surprising survival skills. Like many a boy before him, Diogenes needs a hero, and he and Peleus follow him straight into trouble. A short story.