In this scene, we learn that the prisoners have been taken prisoner by the Tougs, and that the Roman forces are preparing to attack them. As the scene opens, we are introduced to the Roman soldiers, led by galliano, who has just returned from the battlefield. He is overjoyed to see his son and his companion safe, but he is also concerned about the safety of the other prisoners. He orders his men to prepare for an attack, but they are too frightened to do so. He tells them to stay behind him and not to let the enemy attack. He also tells them that he has received word from cornelius that he is on his way back to the city, but that he must return immediately.