Arrian was sent and once again made an impassioned speech appealing to the city leaders and citizens to accept the friendship of Rome and open their gates. He stood on the western ramp, some of the barricade at its top pulled back, so that he could be seen clearly, and was close enough for his face and its honesty to be apparent. For half an hour he spoke, pleading with them, and reading to them the words of a letter he assured them had been sent to the Romans by Princess Azátē.

‘This jewel of Osrhoene, this pearl of your kingdom wrote to the Lord Trajan pleading for his help to protect her and the loyal subjects of Osrhoene against those who would enslave them. Such an appeal, such a simple, brave and humble appeal, could not help move the Lord Trajan. That is why we have come to Nicopolis, as strong friends in answer to this noble call. You can see the power of Rome before you this day, yet we are a tiny fraction of its true might. You see one legion before you – one of thirty. Many of the others will come soon as the Lord Trajan sets right the kingdoms of the east, stripping power from usurpers and making sure the rule of the just and rightful monarchs. Is it not better to be on his side?’

The Nicopolitans listened politely, although anyone could see that even Arrian did not quite believe that they would give in. He ended with a threat.

‘By ancient law and custom, when the Romans prepare to assault a fortress they are willing – nay, eager – to welcome the surrender of the defenders with generosity and mercy, even with reward. That changes when the ram touches the wall for the first time. For when that happens, mercy must be locked away for another season, and all that is left is implacable determination to take and sack the place no matter what its strength. See that great tower!’ He pointed. ‘And see the great battering ram mounted in it. Before the day is out that ram will strike your walls and begin to pound them into dust – unless you heed the advice and pleas of your princess, look to the welfare of your wives, your children, your aged parents, who wordlessly beg you, and accept the verdict of your own heads and hearts to end this war. Rome is your friend. The Lord Trajan is your friend – and we are your friends, your true friends, who would shield you from enemies who come only to destroy. For centuries Romans have been known throughout the wide world for their good faith. Trust that faith, trust the evidence of your eyes, trust your sense of reason. I beg you this last time, to let me come into your city and talk to your leaders – or have them come outside and talk to my commander, the noble Atilius Crispinus. Talk now, before it is too late. You have until the tower is in place and the ram swings to strike!’