The Magnaura

[Privateerkev]

Ignoring Hypatios, Makedonios answers Ioannis.

I fail to see the strategy in the Caesar's latest moves. And I don't have to look very hard to find things to criticize. He has by his own admission gone out of his way to hurt me and those under my care.

Before we know the situation, it seems unwise to send a large army far off in the opposite direction. I doubt it will distract the Turks much. They already have a large army in Caesarea and if it joins the Jihad, it will be near Constantinople in short order.

My guess is the Caesar is capturing a province to give to you. While in abstract that doesn't bother me, I am worried about the timing. The Caesar's army is low on supplies and will not be able to resupply in Tbilisi for years.

Before we learned of the Jihad, his move was less questionable. But now that we know of the Jihad's existence, it seems irresponsible to do what he is doing. We need him and his army closer to home and fully supplied. It is doubtful that a Jihad army will appear near him so he has basically removed himself completely from this war.

Again, I ask that he come and explain his moves to the Senate. We have a right to know. And I grow tired of this attitude that persists around here concerning the questioning of authority. The Megas was elected by the Senate and answers to us. We have every right to debate his performance publicly. Especially since he can be so hard to get ahold of privately.

Questioning the Megas is not treachery, it is patriotism. I desire to see every part of the Empire prosper. But the Caesar's actions smack of partisanship. And in my opinion, that is not good for the long term health of the Empire. And with a large and unknown enemy coming at us, it is actually dangerous.

He then hears Veronica's words and nods supportively at her.