The tall, dark-skinned man leaned over the table and studied the maps his cartographers had drawn up for him. The location they had chosen to settle was good land, fertile land. It would make a good home; his people could make a living here.
The tent flap to the mans make-shift headquarters was pushed open, letting in a pleasant ocean breeze and the busy sounds of the construction commencing. Both were welcome, even with the scowl that accompanied the visitor that had just entered. The man offered a friendly smile at the new arrival, already knowing what that scowl heralded.
Come in, Ekram. I assume you have an update for me?
The young man nodded as he surveyed the tents interior with the same disproving expression as the previous countless times he had delivered his report. And just as with those previous visits, Ekram muttered under his breath:
His majesty should not be conducting his affairs in a tent like a common soldier.
The mans smile spread further on his face. There are more important matters than my throne room to see to first, Ekram.
Ekram nodded, As you say, milord.
The king was well aware that he was not starting off the founding of this city on the best of terms with the budding aristocracy. They expected their king to live as they did, the select few, with servants and workers tilling their grounds. And while the king acknowledged the efficiency in their traditional way of life, he had to be concerned with keeping everyone happy.
He knew that his people would quickly grow in numbers once they got settled, and he wanted to be prepared for that. He recognized the importance of having a solid infrastructure in place before the demand became too strong, which was why his young assistant was so disproving. Ekram was of the aristocracy and, despite his loyalty to his king, still held fast to the traditions he was brought up to believe in.
Tell me, the king spoke. I hear the sounds of construction; how is progress?
Ekram nodded. Work has begun on the windmills, as you requested, milord. And the quarries are being opened as we speak.
Good, the king nodded for Ekram to continue.
Reports from reconnaissance teams are already beginning to come in. Two of the regiments believe theyve spotted suitable locations for expansion. Theyre proceeding with a more detailed exploration.
Again, the King nodded. Dont let them get too far away from the civilians. We dont know who or what else is out there. He gestured at the maps on his table. Will Chitt be getting me some better maps any time soon?
Ekram grimaced. Hes doing everything he can, milord, but conditions are less than ideal right now.
Of course, of course. What about this new recruit, Ananda, have you met with her? Can she be trusted?
Disproval once more flashed across Ekrams face. I have, milord. And yes, I believe she can be trusted, at least as much as one in her line of work can be trusted.
The King raised a knowing eyebrow. You dislike her?
Ekram shook his head. No, I dislike her profession. It lacks . . . honor.
With a rueful smile, the King nodded. Indeed; would that everyone were as upstanding and virtuous as our noble aristocracy, no? Unfortunately, we will find men in this world who will be full of deceit, and we must be ready for them. It is, sadly, a necessary evil.
A necessary evil is still evil, the young man muttered.
The King nodded slowly. Yes, Ekram. It is. Send her in; Id like to speak with her personally.
With a curt nod and a quick turn, the Kings assistant was out of the tent, off to fetch the woman. The sounds of construction once more wafted in, but were embittered by the thought of the impending conversation.
Perhaps, the King yearned, we will meet more friends than enemies . . .
