The Chaos Balance

CXXII

“Is everything ready, Queras?” asked Lephi, sitting back in the malachite throne.

“I had planned to begin by sending the van companies the day after tomorrow, Your Mightiness.” The marshal stood on the green carpet and bowed.

“Why so late?”

“The Tenth Mirror Lancers arrived yesterday. The Grass Hills are hot, even at harvesttime. There is little water at this time of year. Their mounts need watering and rest to be most effective.”

“I had heard that you added local district forces…” Lephi smiled.

“Yes, Sire.”

“Does that not betray your lack of confidence in the finest of Cyador?” Lephi’s white teeth flashed.

A thin sheen of perspiration coated Queras’s forehead. “I do not believe so. The barbarians have proven surprising in the past, and I would prefer to be overprudent. If the additional armsmen are unnecessary, then they will have gained experience that will be useful in your future efforts.”

“You are humble, Queras. It befits you. How will you proceed?”

“We will first go to the northwest, to the South Branch of the Jernya River.”

“The mines are to the north. So are the barbarians.”

“The water is to the northwest, and the grass is better. Also the other barbarians are there as well, and best we vanquish them so that none remain behind us.”

“Hmmmm…”

Queras did not wipe his damp brow.

“You may go.”

The marshal bowed.

“And I hope there are no more delays.”

“No, Sire.”