The Royal Council

[Βελισάριος]

The doors of the Council Hall open, admitting a ceanly-shaven sixteen-year-old. He is wearing the full military pomp of a Strategos preparing for war. He leaves his sword and shield with one of the guards at the entrance then ceremoniously takes off his helmet and, bowing before the members of Council, enters the Hall.

His step is lively, firm and rhythmic- disciplined, but any Strategos with more than a notch on his shield can tell that the boy quivers with emotion. In the middle of Hall Hierax Syriakos (who is Hugo Weaving for this movie) halts and takes another deep bow.

"Great glory to the Basileu and Strategoi of the Arche! I am honoured to be part of this great Council. I have come to greet my noble brothers in arms and bid you farewell. Before sunrise on the morrow, I march towards Petra to lead the Basileus' Royal Army. I will continue the campaign against Egypt."