"Drive the beast in upon me, son of Herod; and you, Gracus, be ready to hand me another lance." The black leopard spat fiercely and struck at the points that were put upon it, the deep rumble in its throat swelling into loud crescendos.
Of a sudden it bounded through the gateway and stood a moment, baring great fangs.

The animal threatened with long hisses.

Vergilius held its eye, his lance raised.

The hissing ceased, the growl diminished, the stealthy paws moved slowly.

Soon it rolled upon its side, purring, and seemed to caress the floor with head and paws--a trick to divert the gaze of Vergilius.