Gentius

Character Profile

Name:	Gentius
Date of Birth:
Breed:	Longwing
Captain:	[Unknown woman, deceased]
National Loyalty:	Britain
Appearance:	Blue with black/white/orange wing tips
Special Abilities:	Acid spitter
Status:	Breeding

Biography

Gentius (Latin for 'deadly') was a Longwing who fought a great many battles in his day. Among other battles, he fought alongside Laetificat in the American colonies in 1776. He was very old by the time Temeraire met him in the breeding grounds.

Gentius had already sired at least three dragons, the third of whom was Excidium (born c. 1725). Gentius also had at least three captains, although he was most attached to his first captain, a woman, whom he kept a picture of in a gold frame.

Gentius had cataracts and couldn't see very far. Nor could he fly well, as he tires easily. But he could still spray acid, and is something of an elder statesman among the dragons so they were happy to have him along when they formed their own regiment.

Gentius' first companion was also the first woman to be awarded the rank of captain. Previously, Longwings' female companions were addressed only as Miss and, at least in theory, did not hold command. Instead, a male captain was assigned to each Longwing along with the dragon's female companion.