But the time for repose and solace is not yet.
To-morrow you will go with Venantius to Capua, and thence, it may be, into Apulia.' Basil bowed in silence.

He had hoped that the siege of Rome was now to be undertaken, and that this would ensure his remaining near to Veranilda.

But the loyalty he professed to Totila was no less in his heart than on his lips, and after a moment's struggle he looked up with calm countenance.
'Have you aught to ask of me ?' added Totila, after observing his face.
'This only, O king: that if occasion offer, I may send written news of myself to her I love.' 'That is a little thing,' was the answer, 'and I grant it willingly.' Totila paused a moment; then, his blue eyes shining with a vehement thought, added gravely: 'When we speak together within the walls of Rome, ask more, and it shall not be refused.' So Basil rode southward, and happily was far away when Tibur opened its gates to the Goth.

For more than half a year he and Venantius were busy in maintaining the Gothic rule throughout Lucania and Apulia, where certain Roman nobles endeavoured to raise an army of the peasantry in aid of the Greek invasion constantly expected upon the Adriatic shore.
When at length he was recalled, the siege of Rome had begun.

The Gothic ladies now resided at Tibur, where a garrison was established; there Basil and Veranilda again met, and again only for an hour.