The speaker was a short but powerfully built man. His head was protected by a helmet of thick leather, which was in keeping with the black, coarse, chain-knit, iron corsage that covered his upper person. His form was as compact and as lithe as that of a leopard, and his pose that of equal alertness. Without for an instant letting his sword drop from its position for thrust, and holding Dion at guard as the weapon seemed to search his body for a vulnerable point, the man spoke:
"You are in command here?"
"When I had any one to command," replied Dion, glancing at the dead bodies lying about the court. "But who are you?"
"No matter who," replied the invader; "I demand the person of the daughter of Elkiah."
"My life is forfeit for her," replied Dion. "Come on."
His challenge was not accepted by his antagonist, who, holding his weapon in guard, asked, "Your name, gallant Greek?"
"Captain Dion, at your service, sir. Come on."
The man lowered his sword.
"Retire, men. Captain Dion, a word with you."
"Tell me first by whose authority you have entered here," asked Dion.