At the Palace of Byrsa, Gaius Aemilius Lepidus and Publius Cornelius Scipio Nasica enter court where the Kings Gesco and Aderbaal are positioned atop their dais. The Roman pair was not keen on looking up at the Carthaginians, but made no point of disputing the appearance of authority.

Lepidus took the lead. “My great and wise kings, as you know the Roman republic is hunting the dog known as Mago. He breeds discontent amongst his host, and then leads them to destruction. He holds no military skill it seems except to retreat and leave his allies to their fate alone. He has no belly to stand and fight a true battle. And for this one talent, that of running in fear and escaping justice, Rome seeks to capture this man. If not for Rome’s safety, but for the safety of those that might entertain the thought of using his leadership to fight against Rome.

“While Rome has a bounty placed on the head of Mago, Rome would be in gratitude of Carthago should she turn the outlaw over to Rome or provide her with the information as to his whereabouts. It would seem that some may be harboring his person. Anyone giving sanctuary to Mago will likely be at war with the people of Rome. If you can tell us, please, do you know where or who holds the man, Mago?

Lepidus paused for effect as if he was still in the courts at home. He just told the Carthaginian kings they would be at war for harboring Mago without implicating them as actually holding the fugitive. A sideways threat…

Stepping forward to leave Publius Cornelius Scipio Nasica in the background, Gaius Aemilius continued. “As you may know, my brother defeated Mago in Numidia last year. He is the first man in Rome and likewise would be a very powerful ally or terrible enemy to make. I can say without doubt, he would be personally grateful should Mago be turned over to Rome’s possession in his name. Should that happen, he would be indebted to his new allies and willing to pour out his gratitude.”