"I shall soon change the burden of their prayers.

Go tell them this: the day I die two of the wisest men from every city in the kingdom shall die also.

Go everywhere, and tell these learned doctors they had best pray for my good health." The priest bowed before his king and retired.

The pagan noble looked up at this ruler of the land of the one God and felt a thrill of horror.

Herod, turning quickly, beckoned to the young knight, his wrinkles quivering with anger.