‘We’ll start with Prefect Scrofa and Bannus,’ said Cato. ‘If we can sort them out then we might be able to prevent an uprising. Without that Longinus will have no reason to call for reinforcements. He won’t be strong enough to march on Rome. If he’s forced to hold his position, then, with luck, the Parthians will not dare to push their ambitions too far.’

‘That’s two ifs too many for my taste,’ Macro muttered.

Cato shrugged. ‘There’s nothing we can do about it. At least until we reach the fort at Bushir.’

‘When will you go?’ asked Florianus.

‘A fine host you are!’ Macro laughed, and Florianus tried to stop himself blushing as he replied.

‘I’m not trying to get rid of you. It’s just that since you killed some of the sicarians in that skirmish down in the temple, their friends will be looking out for you. I’d advise you to look to your safety until you reach Bushir. Don’t go anywhere alone. Always keep armed men close to you and watch your backs.’

‘We always do,’ Macro told him.

‘Glad to hear it. Now, I imagine you’ll want a guide. Someone who knows the route, as well as the lie of the land around Bushir.’

‘That would be helpful,’ said Cato. ‘Do you know anyone we can trust?’

‘None of the local people, that’s for sure. But there’s a man who should serve your needs. He usually works as a guide on the caravan routes to Arabia so he knows the land and the people well. Symeon’s not exactly a friend of the Empire, but he’s smart enough to know that nothing good will come out of any attempt to defy Rome.You can trust him that far at least.’

‘Sounds useful.’ Macro smiled. ‘My enemy’s enemy is my friend.’

Florianus nodded. ‘Thus it ever was. Don’t knock it, Macro.The adage works well enough. Now is there anything else I need to know? Anything I can do for you?’

‘I don’t think so.’ Cato stared out over the ancient city. ‘Given what you said about the sicarians, I think we should leave Jerusalem as soon as possible. Tomorrow morning, if possible.’

‘Tomorrow?’ Macro repeated in surprise.

‘We should leave at first light. Try to put as much distance between us and Jerusalem as we can before nightfall.’

‘Very well,’ Florianus nodded.’I'll get hold of Symeon and organise a mounted escort for you. A squadron of horse from the garrison should be enough to guarantee you reach Bushir safely.’

‘Is that really necessary?’ Macro asked. ‘We can move faster on our own.’