Sum. Khosrove! Is he not under guard without?
A man most fair ... of lordly form, and young?
Sem. ’Tis he! Have him brought hither instantly!
To Husak word shall go on swiftest steed
That I will yield the prince for Artavan!
(Exit Sumbat)
He ’s safe ... if there be time ... if there be time!...
Husak, the Fierce ... but he must love his son,
And will be merciful to save him. Ay....
So brave a son. Now I recall his face,
It would have made me pause had not my eyes
Been dim with triumph.
(Enter Sumbat, followed by officers with Khosrove. The officers fall back, leaving the captive before Semiramis. He is stripped of all armor, and clothed in a scant tunic revealing a figure of marked strength and grace. He stands erect, but with head bowed, and his arms bound to his sides)
Sem. (Gazes at him) Ah!... (She advances a step)
Armenian!
(At sound of her voice he lifts his head and looks at her with eager recognition)
Sem. (Stepping back) Armenian!
Khos. (Proudly) Armenia, by your leave!
I am my father’s house.