The Malria Chief was not as gullible as Annat might have concluded. Being a shrewd strategist, he knew that he was against a cunning enemy that was both brave and agile. He was able to instil fear in the masses but would be wary of any internal troubles, he was also answerable to his superiors in the far-off lands. They demanded regular booty and it was up to the chief to ensure that a regular supply was sent to them otherwise he would lose this coveted position.
He hollered and called up his deputy.
“What do you think of this Annat, do you think she is telling the truth? I know it's late and that we are already giving her leeway, but I am still suspicious of her moves, she is being too smooth”, the Chief was visibly perturbed.
“We have been following her sir, all the while and for now she looks quite legitimate”, the deputy had to save his skin as well.
“Keep an eye on her, make sure she is not being smart and her lousy husband as well”, he waved him to leave the room.
The Chief had been contemplating the strategy of either attacking Asiza or keeping his forces to counter new attacks from Ghorial’s. Subjugating people wasn’t a fun job, decimating populations was one thing but ruling these wild characters was a tedious task that he had…
