Jayne's eyes shot wide open at the sound of the explosion, and then he froze.
"Silus, was that necessary?" Caecilius asked, arms crossed as he stared at the now-headless slave.
"Of course it was," Silus replied, motioning for two of his Legionnaires to remove the body. "These slaves need to know that they belong to us."
"Other methods of discipline will suffice, you know."
"That girl's been nothing but trouble since we put her collar on, she had it coming." Silus slowly turned his head to Caecilius, who met the gaze. "Has the NCR made you soft, Frumentarius? I don't think Caesar would like to hear that."
"Nonsense. We Frumentarii are chosen to infiltrate because we cannot be corrupted." Caecilius turned to walk away. "The only ones more trusted than we are the Praetorians. Do keep that in mind."
Though his body still felt the effects of intoxication, Jayne's mind was clear as he approached the door and tried to open it quietly.