Scion of Cyador

CXLVII

Rynst motions for Lorn to take one of the chairs set before the Majer-Commander’s study desk. Lorn does so, and waits, watching the Majer-Commander and listening to the moan of the early-winter wind that lows around the ancient blue windowpanes, a cold wind, despite the bright sunlight that falls on Cyad.

“Yesterday, I attended the regular audience with the Emperor,” Rynst begins, conversationally. “There I heard that your maneuvers have been successful in giving some of the outland traders a few matters to think about.”

“I understand that such was the intent, as you told me, ser. The maneuvers are but exercises and are at best a limited way of showing what the Mirror Lancers can do.”

“They are indeed, but they are effective.” Rynst purses his lips, and then tilts his head to the side. “Perhaps too effective. The First Magus raised a most interesting point. He suggested that perhaps it would not be wise to maintain the lancers in Cyad for any great period, but for perhaps two or three eightdays twice a year. Or one eightday every season, with a different set of lancer companies each period.”

Lorn waits once more.

“He fears that any companies remaining in the City of Light will become city lancers, and, although he did not say such directly, another tool of the Majer-Commander. He also feels that their presence, in daily maneuvers, will jade all those who watch, and the impact on outlanders will fade, while the citizens of Cyad will come to believe the Mirror Lancers are unmatched.”

“They are unmatched, but they can be outnumbered, ser, as we know.”

“We know that, but those in Cyad do not understand what lies beyond its borders. They do not see the hatred of our land, our roads, our cities, our prosperity. If the First Magus is correct, and correct he may well be,” Rynst continues with a wry smile, “we of the Mirror Lancers may find it even more difficult to obtain the golds required to equip and maintain the forces necessary to repel the barbarians in the years to come. And should any within the city raise arms, in years to come, there will be few Magi’i to stand against such a mob, and no firelances to bring. It will be a far different land, yet few wish to contemplate that.”

Lorn nods slowly.

“You will live in that time and land, Majer. And so will your son.” Rynst pauses momentarily. “As you are the commander of the lancer companies in Cyad, I felt you should know this. I would not pass this on to them at this moment. If you are asked, I would suggest that you tell the truth, and that is that the role of Mirror Lancer companies in Cyad is being considered by the Emperor.”

“Yes, ser.”

“That is all, Majer. I expect a copy of the report on the latest fireship replacement meeting by midmorning tomorrow.”

“Yes, ser.” Lorn stands.

Rynst does not seem to look up as Lorn departs the study.

As Lorn descends the stairs to his study, he considers what Rynst has said. Everything that the Majer-Commander has relayed makes sense, far too much sense, in some ways. One thing does not. That is why Rynst has told Lorn before any decision is made, and why Lorn has been told when a decision will be made.

Lorn fears he understands that, as well. Rynst wants the lancers used-somehow-before they must leave Cyad. Yet the Majer-Commander cannot order such, or will not, and if they are used, he will not be the one to give the order-unless there is a danger obvious to all.