Youth and strength were clearly on Rolf’s side, and there was no lack of intelligence in his direct, assessing gaze. His bearing was proud, his mocking grin full of self-confidence and disdain. He reminded Theophilus of Atretes.
The Roman felt dismissed. He knew what Rolf saw: a man twice his age armed with a shorter sword and bearing no shield. An easy kill. “At least we know one thing for certain,” he said with a faint smile at Atretes. “If I win, it’ll be by the grace of God.”
“What did he say?” Rud demanded, taking offense, for Theophilus had spoken in heavily accented Greek.
“He fights in the name of Jesus Christ,” Atretes said loud enough for all to hear.
“And he’ll die in the name of his god as well,” Rud said, giving his under-chief a nod.
Holt tossed Atretes a rope. “Bind him,” he said and turned his back on them.
“Do they think I plan to run away at this late hour?” Theophilus said under his breath as Atretes tied his wrists.
“Only the chiefs enter the sacred wood unfettered,” he said quietly and Theophilus noticed then that others were being fettered. “It’s a reminder that Tiwaz binds us to him,” Atretes said under his breath and gave the ropes a hard tug making sure they were secured properly. “Don’t fall.”
Theophilus raised his brow at Atretes’ low, ominous tone. “What happens if I do?”
Atretes glanced around at the others and lowered his voice. “If they’re feeling merciful, you’ll be allowed to roll to the sacred grove. If not, they’ll string you up by the ankles and send for my mother or that blonde witch to slit your throat and drain your blood into a bowl as libation for Tiwaz.”
“Jesus, preserve me.” Theophilus looked around at the Chatti warriors. He had always known the Germans were a bloodthirsty race, but he never guessed the extent of their religious practices. “I don’t see anyone in a particularly merciful mood, do you?” he said, smiling wryly.
Atretes gave a humorless laugh. “No, but then they’d rather see Rolf put an end to your life than give that honor to a woman.” He hobbled Theophilus’ legs.
Rud and Holt, bearing torches, led the procession into the woods. Warriors fell in behind and in front of Theophilus and Atretes. Theophilus kept pace with difficulty. The small steps within the confines of his rope hobbles made him feel clumsy. He looked around at the warriors near him and felt compassion for their plight. Their spirits were bound as surely as were their bodies. His concentration focused on them, he tripped over tree roots and barely managed to keep his balance.
Atretes swore under his breath.
Theophilus felt his tension. “Friend,” he whispered, “whatever happens tonight, remember this: The Lord is sovereign. God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God and are called according to his purpose. Whether I live or die doesn’t matter.”
“It matters. This is murder,” Atretes said darkly. “You won’t stand a chance against Rolf. Holt would’ve taught his son everything he knows, and he was champion in my father’s time. I swear your death will be—”
“Listen to me, Atretes. Do God’s will. Do not be conformed to your people, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind that you may prove what is the will of God, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. Remember what I’ve taught you.”
“I’m not like you.”
“You’re more like me than you know. You must listen. There’s little time. Christ’s divine power has granted to you everything pertaining to life and godliness through the true knowledge of Jesus Christ who called you. Be diligent to present yourself approved as a warrior who doesn’t need to be ashamed.”
“I am a warrior and will act as one.”
“You’re speaking as a man, Atretes. Live for God.”
“So I’m to do nothing?”
“Everything. Love your people.”
“Love them!” he snarled, casting a dark look at those around them. “After this night?”
“Despite it.”
“I was chief.”
“Just so. And as such, were you ever part of these rites?”
Atretes gave him a bleak look. “You know I was.”
“Then remember the life out of which Christ called you. Remember what it felt like to live in darkness.” He saw his friend’s stubborn pride. “Atretes, listen to me for God’s sake. Let these people see the fruit of the Spirit at work in you. Let the Lord break Tiwaz’s hold on your people. Give yourself wholeheartedly to God and let him produce in you the love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self- restraint that proclaims him almighty God. No law, no empire can stand against these things.”