As he spoke, one of the horsemen edged his beast forward, down the track towards the Romans.

07 The Eagle In the Sand

CHAPTER SIX

‘It’s Bannus,’ Symeon said quietly.

As Cato threw his straw hat aside and jammed his helmet on to his head he looked at their guide in surprise. ‘You know him?’

‘We’ve met before.’

‘As friends, I hope.’

‘We were friends, many years ago.’ He glanced quickly at Cato. ‘But not now.’

‘You might have mentioned this before,’ Cato muttered.

‘I didn’t think it was important, Centurion. Besides, you didn’t ask.’

‘If we get out of this, I think there might be a few questions I’ll want answers to.’

Bannus reined his horse in when he was a short distance away and smiled as he recognised the guide. He addressed him in Greek.

‘When my men told me about the archer in the fort, I should have guessed. These Roman soldiers are not welcome here, but peace be with you, Symeon of Bethsaida.’

‘And with you, Bannus of Canaan. How may we be of service to you?’

‘I want those two Roman officers surrendered to me. You and the others can return to Jerusalem, after we have disarmed you.’

Symeon shook his head.’You know that is impossible. You would dishonour me, and my family.’

Bannus stared at him a moment before he continued. ‘For the sake of the old days, I will ask you again to hand over those two men, and your weapons. I would not have your blood on my hands.’

‘Then stand aside and let us pass.’

‘No. Those two have slain three of my men in Jerusalem.They must be executed to serve as an example to the people of Judaea.’

‘And what of me? I slew three of your men at the fort.’

‘My fight is with Rome, Symeon. As yours should be.’ He stretched out his hand. ‘Join us.’

‘No.’

Bannus let his hand drop, and turned his attention to the men of the cavalry squadron. ‘Surrender these two officers to me and you will live. Now lay down your arms!’

Macro nudged Cato.’Who does he think he’s fooling? He’d kill the auxiliaries the moment he’d taken their weapons.’ Macro took a breath, drew his sword and shouted towards Bannus.’If you want our weapons, come and get them!’

‘Shhh!’ Cato hissed. ‘Who do you think you are - Leonidas?’

Bannus glared at them a moment, then nodded his head in farewell to Symeon and turned his horse to gallop back up the slope towards his men. Macro called the decurion over to them. ‘What are our chances?’

‘None, if we stay put and try to defend ourselves. We have to charge, cut our way through and run for it. Just give the order, sir. But do it now, before they attack.’

Macro nodded. ‘Let’s go.’

The decurion turned back to his men. ‘Form tight wedge!’