Nin. Demand!
Sem. Ay, king! ... ’Tis true I ’m not alone.
My goddess mother is again with me
As when this morn my heart exultant rode
The tides of triumph! When the heavens rolled
And like a stooping sea caught up my soul
Till ranged with the applauding gods it clapped
My courage on below! You offer me
A place beside your throne. I offer you
The hearts of all your subjects now my own,—
The love—the worship of your mighty army!
(Cries without)
They shout my name—not yours—great Ninus! Hear!
Shouts: Semiramis is queen! Semiramis!
Sem. I bring a hand, with yours inlocked, shall reach
O’er Asia’s breadth and draw her glory in!
A heart ambitious with immortal beat
To make Assyria greatest ’neath the stars!
And in return I ask my brother’s life!
Give me your promise Khosrove goes to Husak,
Or leave me where I stand—Menones’ daughter!
Nin. (Slowly, reading the determination in her face)
I promise.
Sem. Swear!
Nin. I swear it!
Sem. (Relaxes, falls at his feet, and reaches up, clasping his hands)
O, god Ninus!