What would the Galilean say, were he present unseen among us?
Maximus.
He would say: the third empire is at hand.
Julian.
The third empire is here, Maximus! I feel that the Messiah of the earth lives in me. The spirit has become flesh and the flesh spirit. All creation lies within my will and my power.
See, see,—there are the first sparks drifting aloft. The flames are licking up the cordage and the clustered masts.
[He shouts in the direction of the fire.
Spread; spread!
Maximus.
The wind anticipates your will. ’Tis rising to serve you.