They landed in the very last gladitorial game seeking a silver cup that will somehow help Albert (we are not told how). Beth is hauled off by a soldier, believed to be a bird slave to the young Emperor Honorius because of the bird seeds in her bag. We learn that his people believe that the young emperor cares more for his birds than his people. He seems to tolerate the games, although he doesn't necessarily believe in them.
Patrick is taken in by a kind monk, Telemachus. They help a "barbarian" to run away although he is recaptured. They end up in Rome and Patrick is taken away to the arena. Beth is trying to find the Emperor's humanity - he's become extremely distant and cold from his people - while learning she now hates birds. Telemachus confronts the Emperor about the dreadful gladiator games, willing to sacrifice himself to make the Emperor understand the horror of the games.
Meanwhile the cousins seek the silver cup...
The book is easy to read with simple sentences and grammer and an interesting plot, just right for younger children. I really liked it (I like anything about ancient Rome, though). It talked about ancient Rome that was closer to the end of it. I definitely want more of the books about Beth and Patrick!
Definitely a 10 on a 10 point scale.
