He felt settled before el Nadim arrived. The general was as nondescript a man as the desert produced. Like all Nassefs henchmen, his background was suspect. The Invincibles said he had begun as a cutpurse, and had descended into darker ways from that. He was a puzzle to the Disciple. He was not known for his genius in the field, unlike others of Nassefs intimates, and, if the grudging reports were to be believed, he was a true believer. Yet he remained a favorite of Nassef, entrusted with commands where imagination was less needed than a legate dedicated to executing his orders.

You summoned me, Lord?

Sit. The Disciple contemplated his visitor. I have a task for you.

Lord?

Youve heard the news? That the King has sent mercenaries to el Aswad?

There are rumors, Lord. They say Hawkwind is the commander.

Thats true. El Murid grimaced, stricken by sudden pain. A thousand mercenaries, and Hawkwind. Im sure you appreciate the threat.

El Nadim nodded. Its an opportune moment for the Wahlig, Lord, what with the Scourge of God away battling the accursed Throyen.

I want to beat Yousif at his own game. To go out and meet him.

Lord? Im afraid

I know the arguments. Ive been meditating on them since the news arrived. Tell me this. How large a force could we raise if we called in our patrols, stripped Sebil el Selib of its garrison, drafted untrained recruits, armed slaves willing to fight in exchange for their freedom, and what have you?

Three thousand. Maybe four. Mostly unmounted. On foot theyd have little chance against Guild infantry.

Perhaps. How many mounted veterans?

No more than a third, Lord. And the garrisons here are made up of old men.

Yes. The Scourge of God persists in taking Sebil el Selibs best defenders. Go. Call in the scouts and raiders. See how many men you can arm.

You insist on doing this, Lord?

Not at all. I insist on examining the possibility. We need make no decision till we see what strength we can muster. Go now.

As you command, Lord.

Meryem joined him as el Nadim departed. Is this wise? she asked. The last time you overruled your commanders

I dont intend to overrule anyone. Prick them into action, perhaps. Lay suggestions before them, yes. But, if, in their wisdom, they foresee disaster, Ill yield.

You want to embarrass Yousif and Hawkwind the way they embarrassed you, dont you?

He was startled. The woman was psychic. She had reached down inside him and touched a secret truth he had not wholly recognized himself. You know me too well.

Meryem smiled, enfolded him in her arms, rested her cheek against his chest. How could it be otherwise? We grew up together.

El Murid smiled. I wish there were some rest from my labors.