Redsand Canyon Mellontikós

the imperator grinned, an easy expression that only came without difficulty when he was in arsenio's presence. "o misthofóros thélei na diapragmatefteí!"  the eagle chuckled warmly.

diesel annoyed him. unbeknownst to the imperator her lie might soon be found out. "tamar is kind but i do not think she will tolerate sharing you," he said diplomatically despite the amusement of his gaze.

"the truth is that i cannot spare aquene until she trains a replacement. ironically that was to be tamar, and the lessons may continue. but that would leave mereo without any medicus whatsoever." and that could not be abided.

"the further truth is that i selfishly wish kallik to become a general. i think he is suited for it once his training completes. their presence in the vale may well happen. but for now she is with child," he told arsenio quietly. "founding a new land would tax her overmuch."

it was not a refusal. it was a postponenent. he waited to see how arsenio would respond.