‘Good. Then let me be clear. We are the only airfield for leagues and are currently supporting two offensives, both of which are seeing increased activity. I have just received word that an unseasonal storm front is drifting in our direction, and I am still awaiting resupply of our rocket pods. In addition, two of my craft are currently requisitioned to provide logistical support for Governor Dolos’ banquet.’

He glared at her a moment before continuing.

‘And all that was prior to this morning, when a Valkyrie nearly took the roof off the governor’s château.’

Dolos stiffened at his words. Apparently, she had not yet been informed of the incident. He did not quite hide his smile at her discomfort.

‘I saw,’ I said. ‘How are your soldiers?’

‘They’re not my soldiers,’ Prospherous replied. ‘Tempestus Scions are part of the Militarum Tempestus. Nevertheless, they are currently assigned here, ostensibly under my command. Why, are you hoping to procure some footage of their injuries for the citizenry to gawp at?’

‘No, sir.’

‘Good,’ he said. ‘Because those men risked their lives, and had they not… well, that is not for you to know. As it is, I am forced to scramble pilots and craft in response.’

He was at that. Mizar still hovered above the château. Through its eye I could see the ground crews swarming across the compound like insects, loading the Thunderbolts and Lightning fighters.

‘I understand, sir.’

‘Then you understand there is little else I can do for you. Feel free to take some picts of the aircraft taking off, and if you can find an off-duty officer and supply them with enough alcohol I am confident they will share a few anecdotes. I will, of course, require final approval of whatever you produce. Dismissed.’

His tone did not invite debate. I was already rising when Governor Dolos’ hand thrust into my chest, pushing me back into my seat. She glared at Wing Commander Prospherous from behind her storm-framed headdress.

‘Need I remind you, wing commander, that we are not your soldiers. This is my home. More than that, this is my world. You do not dismiss me.’

Prospherous glared at her.

‘I am perfectly aware of that,’ he said through gritted teeth. ‘I was dismissing Simlex here.’

‘He is not yours to dismiss.’

They stared at each other, two gladiators sizing up their opponent, the world beyond all but forgotten. I hoped they would forget me as easily, for I was anxious to be anywhere else. I synced with Mizar, scanning the sky, on the off-chance another Valkyrie was going to slam into the château and provide my deliverance. But I saw only the squads of Lightnings and Thunderbolts departing. The crashed Valkyrie had been retrieved, and a replacement was being prepped to launch, the ground crew loading the heavy bolters and refuelling promethium tanks.

The governor leant forward, resting her elbows on the desk.