Makedonios first addresses the Patriarchal Representative.

Both Lady Veronica and Her Highness saw Hypatios working with men who belong to this 'Organization.'

The Princess included it in her report to the Senate.

Of interest is when she said, "Finally he revealed his true colors, working hand with a ruthless group who stoops to threatening children and aiding butchers in their bloody tasks. Some of you might have heard of this "Organization", well they were present at Iconium and at Machonios' side!"

I believe Hypatios was lying about getting a message from the Lord. He knew he was in trouble and he tried to make up excuses.

He then turns to Savvas.

I've already sent my report to the Emperor and had mentioned the assassination attempt. At the time, I didn't think it was something that had to be announced to the Senate. But I am touched by your concern and I appreciate it.

As for your questions about the Order's readiness, I am afraid it looks rather grim. We have 12 units seperated into 2 armies. The Caesar is finally delivering the rest of my army and it will be in Antioch this year. But the quality is woefully inadequate for the task at hand.

But my plan is to hold the 2 river crossings near Antioch. With two armies, we can block what ever path the Jihad takes to us. That should stall the enemy long enough for the rest of you to send a relief force to the mountain pass that links Adana to Antioch.

If the timing is right, we'll get some unexpected assistance from the Germans. At the very least, they should at least prove a distraction to the Fatimids.

What we could use is more spearmen. Even militia. Antioch can train hundreds of them in a short time. My own infantry are made up of peasants so any thing would be an improvement. We need units that can hold a river crossing. Our tactics won't be nuanced. We'll just grind them down at the rivers. Even if we lose we'll make a dent.