The King was the first in the court.
There, it is true, the progress of the Goths was for a time arrested.
For Quintus Piso and Kallistratos stood on the ramparts of the inner wall, with a hundred legionaries and a few Isaurians. They had hastened thither from the Pancratian Gate. They hurled a thick hail of spears and arrows at the Goths as they descended singly into the court. Their catapults were also not without effect.
"Send for assistance to Cethegus!" cried Piso, on the wall; and Kallistratos immediately rushed away.
Below in the court the Goths fell right and left at the side of Witichis.
"What shall we do?" asked Markja.
"Wait until they have exhausted their projectiles. It cannot last much longer. They shoot and hurl too hastily in their fright. Do you see? Already more stones are flying than arrows, and there are no more spears."
"But their balistas?"
"They will presently be able to hurt us no longer. Prepare to storm! See, the hail is much thinner; now be ready with the ladders and axes. Follow me quickly!"
And the Goths ran at a quick step across the court. Very few fell. The greater part reached the second and inner wall in safety, and a hundred ladders were raised.