Bithynia, 1101

As Ioannis Komnenos walked back to his tent, he heard loud shouting coming from inside his tent. As he entered, two of his retainers abruptly broke off their heated argument, looking shamefaced.

"Now what is all this about?" inquired Ioannis sternly. "Have you forgotten that I expect better of my retainers? Andronikos, you speak first!"

The more senior of the two stepped forward. "Forgive me, Caesar, but young Bardas here was not paying you due respect. He has been complaining to me about your orders over the past few years."

Ioannis turned to the younger retainer, 'Is this true, Bardas?

Taking a deep breath Bardas turned to Ioannis. "It is true. Forgive for disrespecting you, Caesar, but I am sick of camping out in this deserted place. Ask the soldiers, and they'll tell you the same. We are marching to relieve Sinop, yet we have not moved a mile in the last four years!"

Smiling gently, Ioannis responded, "It is true that it most unusual, and I myself am partly to blame. I authorised Comes Chrysovergos to march on Trebizond, thus making it unwise for us to march upon Sinop. However, it cannot hurt to move closer to Sinop, providing we proceed carefully. I will pardon you for your disrespect, knowing it was frustration, not disloyalty that caused it. Try and trust me next time."

"Thank you, Caesar. I should have held my tongue, and I will learn my lesson.