Nin. I ’ll not consent!
Sem. It is our royal order! Guards for Ninus!
Nin. What do you mean?
Sem. To have our way! Guards here!
You shall not do this wrong to your high self!
We ’ll look unto your honor! (To guards) Bear him in!
(Guards stand in amazement)
Did ye not hear the king’s decree? I reign!
(Guards take hold of Ninus)
Nin. By Hut and Nim!
Sem. Place him in Khosrove’s seat!
(Guards draw Ninus through the archway. Khosrove follows, then all but Semiramis, who lingers fearfully, runs toward front, then back and listens)