"Unworthy man," said the Baru simply. His scorn echoed with majestic depth. "You think with your curses to save your town from those whom the gods command. I have seen many such as you. But you have never seen my like before. I am the Baru of Shamash at Nineveh, Mother of Cities!" A gasp came from the Assyrian ranks, followed by a ragged cheer. They had not known he was a priest of such high name. They could feel that their luck was turning. Their morale soared.