TARZAN AND THE LOST EMPIRE
“What is the meaning of all this?” demanded Cassius Hasta. “What has happened?”
“Validus Augustus is dead. He was assassinated at the games today and Fulvus Fupus has assumed the title of Caesar. You are indeed come in time. All Castrum Mare will welcome you.”
Along the Via Mare from the castle to the lakeshore and across the pontoon bridge to the island marched the army of the new Emperor of the East, while the news spread through the city and crowds gathered and shrieked their welcome to Cassius Hasta.
In a deserted house across the avenue from the Colosseum four fugitives awaited the coming of the legionaries of Fulvus Fupus. It was evident that the soldiers intended to take no chances. They entirely surrounded the building and they seemed to be in no hurry to enter.
Von Harben had had ample time to cover Favonia with the rags, so that she was entirely concealed before the legionaries entered simultaneously from the garden, the avenue, and the roof, torch-bearers lighting their way.
“It is useless to resist,” said Mallius Lepus to the officer who accompanied the men in from the avenue. “We will return to the dungeons peaceably.”
“Not so fast,” said the officer. “Where is the girl?”
“What girl?” demanded Mallius Lepus.
“The daughter of Septimus Favonius, of course.”
“How should we know?” demanded von Harben.
“You abducted her and brought her here,” replied the officer. “Search the room,” he commanded, and a moment later a legionary uncovered Favonia and raised her to her feet. The officer laughed as he ordered the three men disarmed.
“Wait,” said von Harben. “What are you going to do with the daughter of Septimus Favonius? Will you see that she has a safe escort to her father’s house?”
“I am taking my orders from Caesar,” replied the officer.
“What has Caesar to do with this?” demanded von Harben.
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