The Royal Council

[The Celtic Viking]

Sarpedon coughs.

"Phanias cannot deny an army to be raised in the east; he can only veto raising any new units in his satrapy. In any case, I will consider your request.

As for your Edict, I don't think it will be necessary. When the Ptolemies are subdued, the 1st Syrian as well as the new army - for I intend to have one created somewhere, regardless if that is Hekatompylos or Persepolis or in Hades' arse - will be free to take care of the rebels, at least for now. Later on we can create small, non-regular armies if necessary, but I don't think it will be needed at this moment."

Sarpedon turns to Alkaios.

"I am... displeased to hear that, but it is somewhat fortunate, I believe, since he ended up where he did. As you know, there's a Hayasdan army in our territory, north of your master's position. Has Mikithion learned anything of it? Does he know what it intends to do? Does he trust their... continued well-wishes?"