The Roman emperor is fearful of a Delphic oracle which states that "From the bones of twelve, a phoenix shall rise that will rule Rome." An imperial investigator is sent to determine the paradoxical threat to Rome--to find the twelve and where they hid the missing bones of their founder. Their disappearances resolve into bones and a surprise murder mystery. Read this work to place yourself in the first century where oracles, bones, and small groups can shake the foundations of empire.