‘I am ready,’ said Martialis, calmly returning the gaze of the Emperor. ‘But, as a soldier, who has ever done his duty, two requests might be mercifully granted.’
‘Name them.’
‘That I suffer no dishonourable death, and that the maiden may be returned to her people in safety and honour. Or, if these be too much, grant, at least, the latter, and deal with me as you will as regards the former.’
‘I have said that your headstrong youth claims an amount of indulgence, and I grant both requests.’
‘Thanks from my heart.’
‘Your betrothed shall not be harmed—she is now in safe keeping. There is the first condition settled.’
‘Then I am at peace.’
‘And for the other, you shall name yourself the manner of your death.’
‘A single sword-thrust here,’ said the Centurion, laying his hand over his heart. ‘I bear an old and honourable name.’
Tiberius bent a long and searching gaze upon him, and then rising to his feet, paced up and down the cell for some moments.