But—
HELIOGABALUS
I positively refuse to let you sacrifice yourself. I hadn't noticed the time. Now, my dear. [He offers his arm, and she dutifully takes it, though with obvious reluctance. They step down from the solium and proceed to the door of the peristyle. At the door] You have been getting paler and paler for an hour. I noticed it but didn't say anything. Now right to bed, my little ginger snap. Don't forget that Heliogabalus loves you. [He gives her a peck of a kiss] I'll be with you anon.
[She goes out without a word. Immediately the door closes behind her, HELIOGABALUS makes his way back to the solium with noticeable haste. First he takes a precautionary look over his shoulder at the door; then he devotes himself to a long gaze at LUCIA]
HELIOGABALUS
[Genially] So this is Lucia!
LUCIA
[Oratorically] The peace of the Lord be with you, Cæsar! I am not afraid.
HELIOGABALUS
Well, surely not. I had no thought of harming you, my dear.