‘I can handle him. There’s no way I’m going to let that scum run out on us. He’s the one who turned the villagers against us. Now he can take his full share of the consequences.’

Cato nodded approvingly. ‘Still, I’d watch him closely.’

‘I will, believe me.’ Macro said firmly. ‘Do you think he was right about the Governor?’

‘Yes. It makes sense. We can’t expect any help from that quarter.’

‘If only we had more men. I checked the morning strength returns before the meeting. The cohort’s down to fewer than seven hundred effectives. It’s not looking good.’

‘No, sir. It’s not. What are my orders?’

‘I need a good pair of eyes out there. I want you to command the scouts. Take ten men and ride out towards Bannus. Send back regular reports on his progress.You are not to engage with any of their scouts. No heroics, Cato. Do you understand?’

‘Yes, sir. There’ll be time enough for that later on.’

Macro laughed. ‘That’s the spirit! Now, I’d better get on with the preparations.You’ll need to leave as soon as you can.’

‘Yes, sir.’ Cato replied, but did not move towards the door.

‘What is it?’

‘Those people at Heshaba. I think I owe it to them to offer shelter in the fort. They saved my life.’

‘No. They’ll be safer in their village, especially if Bannus does take the fort.’

‘I’m not sure about that. The Parthians aren’t exactly famous for their kind treatment of non-combatants. Besides, I got the feeling that there’s not much love lost between Bannus and those people. If we leave them out there, then they’ll be at the mercy of the brigands and those Parthians.’

Macro stared at him for a moment before he made a decision.’Very well. Offer them shelter. But if they accept it, they must come to the fort by nightfall. I don’t want them getting caught up between the two sides when the fighting starts.’

‘Thank you, sir.’

‘Cato, you can ask them, but I doubt whether that woman, Miriam, or her followers, will take up the offer. Those are their people marching on us. It’s more likely they’ll join them in the attack on the fort.’

Cato shook his head. ‘I don’t think so. There’s something different about Miriam and her followers. I don’t think they want to fight us. Or anyone for that matter.’

‘Fine.’ Macro waved his hand towards the door. ‘Then make your offer and be done with it. But get moving. There’s not much time.’