We’re starting the last week before The Tyrant’s Tomb hits bookshelves with an open letter to the Praetor of the Twelfth Legion, Frank Zhang.
Dear Frank,
We know life can be a roller coaster. You make some awesome new friends, and one or more of them dies tragically. You lose your mother at a young age, you find a time-displaced girlfriend who loves you unconditionally. You’re gifted with amazing archery skills and the ability to shape-shift, but you’re cursed to die when a stupid piece of wood burns to a crisp. That’s why it’s important to make the most out of the rest of your days on this mortal coil.
1. Go to Burning Man
Okay, maybe that particular festival is a bad idea. But you should get out more. Try another event, listen to some live music with your friends, just hang out and relax a little. Life doesn’t have to consist exclusively of slaying monsters and saving the world from imminent destruction. Bear in mind, those girls dancing on the stage in feathered costumes aren’t harpies . . . or are they? Well, maybe you should bring a bow and arrow just in case.
2. Tell Off Your Dad
Yeah, he might be the Roman god of war, but how many opportunities are you going to get to lay into him about all the missed birthdays and little league games? Besides, it seems like the angrier you get and the more you fight him, the prouder of you he becomes. Who knows? You might even inspire your friends to do the same.
3. Tell Your Friends You Love Them
Speaking of your friends, they have been more of a family than your real relatives most of the time. Life is fraught with danger, and you never know who’s going to have to say good-bye first. So it’s best not to wait to let them know how you feel over one last game of Mythomagic.
We mean it. That’s your last game. For real this time. Even if you’re not dying. Time is of the essence.
4. Cut a Deal with the Son of Hades
And hey, before your clock runs out, it might be worth spending some time with your buddy who knows how to commune with the dead. The next time there’s a party, remind him to break out the Ouija board. It could be good way to make connections for your days in Elysium.
Sincerely,
Your friends at Read Riordan
What do you think Frank should do before his stick burns up in The Tyrant’s Tomb?
