Hadrian had insisted. ‘We need them both. Be good for the magistrates to see that both of the king’s children – and the only two to matter, at least at the moment – are here with us and want them to surrender. Might just give them pause and make them willing to give in. After all, they’ve won honour enough already. Held us for nearly forty days, repulsed a major attack. Not many can boast of that. If they’re smart they’ll take it and save themselves, for they must know that they cannot win in the end.’

Crispinus was not so sure. The new rampart seemed so feeble compared to the old walls, but it would not be easy, and if they did get the ram working and make a breach on the other side, then who was to say another makeshift defence would not block them there as well. Food was running short, and they could not stay here forever. Worse than that the spirit of his men had gone. He could sense it, even if he could not put his finger on what it was. The excitement when the curtain wall collapsed had ebbed away to nothing after the failure of their attack. No one believed anymore, not deep down, and a little voice in his own mind kept whispering that it was hopeless and perhaps they would all die here. It might be for the best.

‘Well…’ Hadrian paused. ‘We must not count on anything. Perhaps they will give in, perhaps not. Remember we have a breach, the prospect of another before long, and that we are far better soldiers. It really is only a matter of time.’ Hadrian gave a rueful smile. ‘Hasn’t it always been that? Well time is getting short, but it has not run out on us yet. We do not lose anything by seeing whether they are now more amenable. More importantly, having brother and sister espouse our cause and show themselves before the city sends a message to Nicopolis and all the world. We are supported by the royal family of this kingdom. They are our friends and allies. Thus the people of Nicopolis are rebels opposing their rightful rulers. That becomes the essential, unarguable truth – we are not invaders, but allies helping to crush a rebellion. Thus we are in the right and the citizens are in the wrong.’

With the acting governor insisting, Crispinus had no choice and nor did Azátē. After Arrian had announced their intention, and the magistrates and other worthies had been summoned to the makeshift rampart, the formalities could begin. Crispinus had summoned Ferox’s boy, Philo, to translate, for the princess had explained that she might well have to argue some of her case in Aramaic. At first they used Greek, and after Arrian had spoken, Arbandes gave a long, highly impassioned speech.

‘Ambitious boy, that one,’ Hadrian said. ‘Got a frosty reception from the princeps last time, but Trajan always likes good-looking young lads when they have a hint of martial swagger.’