“Eulalia of Emerita, twelve years of age, executed as an enemy of the gods. Cause of death: refusal.”
Behind him, the sky broke open.
He did not mean to. The haft clattered on the stone, and several guards turned to stare. But Decimus was already walking—not toward the girl, but away. He passed the magistrate, who shouted after him. He passed the priests of the imperial cult, who stood in their white robes like worried storks. He passed the open gate of the arena and kept walking into the empty street beyond. Martyr Or The Death Of Saint Eulalia 2005l
“Again,” the magistrate whispered.
“Recant,” said the magistrate for the seventh time. His voice was tired, almost bored. “Burn incense to Jupiter. Scatter a pinch of salt. Then go home to your mother.” “Eulalia of Emerita, twelve years of age, executed