The Aftermath of Alboin's Death

Therefore, Helmichis, after he had killed Alboin, attempted to invade his kingdom. But he was not at all able, because the Langobards, sorrowing too greatly over the death of Alboin, set out to kill him. Immediately Rosimund sent to Longinus, prefect of Ravenna, that he would quickly send a ship with which he could save them. Longinus, having been made happy by this news, quickly sent a ship on which Helmichis and Rosimund, who was now his wife, boarded fleeing by night. They carried with them the daughter of the king, Albsuinda (not Rosimund's daughter), and all the treasure of the Langobards. They came to Ravenna with all speed. Then Longinus, the prefect, began to urge Rosimund that she kill Helmichis and marry him. She, as she was easily inclined to all wickedness, desired to become mistress of Ravenna, have herself over to thoughts of the deed which must be done. While Helmichis cleansed himself in a bath, she went in to him and brought a cup with poison to the tub. She affirmed it to be safe and he drank it. When he felt himself to have drank a cup of death, he drew his sword upon Rosemund so that he could compel her to drink the rest. And thus, by the judgement of allpowerful God, the most wicked killers perished at the same time.

tomorrow. the fate of Longinus since he has the treasure now.......