Chapter 396
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Chapter 396
Clinging to the mast for dear life, Luo-Luo clutched her cloak and wondered what crimes she could have possibly committed in her past lives to warrant such a miserable existence. Her thick, furred cloak was meagre shelter from the cold wind nipping at her cheeks, and a frightened gasp left her lungs burning as they hit a rough wave. It seemed to happen more often the further west they travelled, and Luo-Luo couldnt fathom why no one else appeared even remotely concerned by the shuddering grunts and tortured groans of their decrepit deathtrap the sailors insisted on calling a ship.
Its as if Luo-Luo were the only person alive still sane enough to know fear.
Take her handmaidens, Sorya and Anrhi for example, their cheeks rosy and smiles bright as they gazed out over the boundless waters. Unaffected by the frigid clime, the twin sisters were joined by Aurie and Sarankho as the four of them leaned over the railing to marvel at the quins and turtles swimming alongside. The ship swayed and lurched beneath their feet, but neither handmaiden showed the slightest hint of alarm or apprehension, though Luo-Luos stomach turned at the thought of losing one or both to the vast emptiness of the Azure Sea.
Oh how she envied their courageous ignorance.
Even then, their escapades paled in comparison to Lin-Lins, standing high above them all in the crow's nest with little more than a scarf to keep her warm. Madness is what it was, for even if Luo-Luo were a thousand times braver, she would still lack the courage to scale the frayed netting to such staggering heights while the ship rocked and rolled beneath her feet...
Trembling at the mere thought of it, Luo-Luo closed her eyes and hugged the mast even tighter. As much as she wanted to return to the warm confines of her cabin, shed promised Lin-Lin to look after the wildcats. Rather, she promised Sorya and Anrhi would look after the wildcats, and as terrified as she was out here on deck, shed be even more terrified locked in a room with two bored predators. At least here, there were plenty of sailors between Luo-Luo and the formidable creatures. Should they fail to protect her, then at least they could serve as distractions for the murderous felines. Though she had yet to be attacked, it seemed like it was only a matter of time before one of Lord Husbands beasts sank its fangs into Luo-Luos tender, delicate flesh, and she even knew which animal it would be.
The meanest and most murderous of Lord Husbands wildcats, Aurie.
The bears and other wildcats were content to leave Luo-Luo be, and while the bunnies and hare despised her, they were small, fragile creatures who could do no harm. Aurie, however, was relentless in his harassment, always bounding towards her with eyes wide and fangs bared. He enjoyed batting her ankles with sheathed claws and head-butting her away to say, Its no fun unless you run, prey.
As if listening to her thoughts, Aurie turned his unblinking stare towards her, his pupils expanding at the sight her trembling frame. With a slow lick of his jowls, the creature abandoned his post at the rails and padded towards her. Shrinking back at the sight, she kept the bulky mast between them and watched Auries slow approach with growing trepidation, her eyes locked on his as she tried to sink into the wooden pillar. One moment, Aurie was halfway across the deck and the next, Luo-Luo lost sight of him, only to realize the canny predator had circled around the mast to come up behind her when she felt his hot breath on her cheek. Too terrified to even breathe, Luo-Luo froze as Aurie rumbled beside her, his massive paw prodding her shoulder as he waited for her to turn and meet her grisly fate.This chapter is updated by nov(e)(l)biin.com
A high-pitched whine seeped from Luo-Luos lips and Auries rumbling rose to match it. Closing her eyes, Luo-Luo turned away and curled into a ball, but the wildcat moved closer to rest his chin atop her head, the cruel and sadistic beast finding delight in her fear and misery.
Tch, enough of your games, Aurie, Anrhi said, and the wildcats heavy weight lifted off of Luo-Luo. Silly kitten, cant ye see yer scaring milady? She dont want to cuddle, and thats that. Aurie yowled in response and the sound sent a shiver down Luo-Luos spine, but Anrhi stood firm, her voice unwavering. Enough of yer whinging. Go on now, back to the railing with you. Get. Hearing no growling or screaming, Luo-Luo found the courage to open her eyes and saw Aurie plodding away, his head low and tail tucked. Settling down beside her, Anrhi hugged Luo-Luo much like she hugged the mast. Its all right milady, Anrhi said, her voice low and soothing. Anrhis here now, aint nothing to be a feared of.
With a plaintive whimper, Luo-Luo said, Hes so horrid, always tormenting me whenever he can and Lord Husband does nothing to stop him.
Oh, Auries a big ol sweetheart, he is. He jus came over to say hello.
Anrhis tone was one usually reserved for reassuring children afraid of the dark, but Luo-Luos worries were all too real. Resisting the urge to snap at the foolish handmaiden, Luo-Luo instead asked, How are you not afraid of them? Theyre wild animals, liable to snap at a moments notice.
Anrhi shrugged. Same could be said of most nobles I been around, but with the bears and wildcats, a little dried meat buys ye a lotta goodwill.
The thought of hand-feeding Lord Husbands pets made Luo-Luo shiver in terror. I think he hates me.
Even Luo-Luo thought she sounded whiny, but Anrhi responded in stride. No he dont milady, aint a mean bone in Auries body. He aint the prettiest creature around, but youd be hard pressed to find a sweeter kitten anywhere in the Empire, I swear on Mum above I do. After a brief hesitation, Anrhis voice dropped to a whisper, though still loud enough to hear over the flapping sails and howling winds. Beggin me pardon fer sayin so milady, but ifn ye wantin to be closer with Master Rain, then charmin his petsd be a good start. He loves them something fierce he does, I daresay much as he loves his family. Itd be something to bond over, fer sure.
As if things were so simple. Luo-Luo might as well strive to become Lord Husbands Martial peer for all the good this advice did. She knew what needed to be done, but she had no way to follow through with her plans. Her efforts at seduction served only to drive him into another womans arms and her hard work in his cast iron venture almost failed horrifically when Lord Husband tried to use it as an excuse to leave her in Nan Ping. Oh, his words were sweet enough, claiming he needed her there for the business and it was all for her safety, but Luo-Luo saw through his true thoughts. In his beautiful amber eyes, Luo-Luos perceived value was below even that of Tali and Tate, a grown woman who could neither defend nor care for herself. At least the children had an excuse and were learning to be useful, but Lord Husband saw all of Luo-Luos pursuits as frivolous and wasteful. He had yet to hear her play or watch her dance, read her poems or appreciate her paintings, because he placed no value on the fine arts. Even his expensive collection was merely a means to an end, gifts to be given or merchandise to be sold, leaving it in the wagons instead of admiring them as they should be.
In short, Lord Husband was an obtuse philistine, which severely limited Luo-Luos options to win him over.
And I am a current Second Grade Warrant Officer. Whats your point?
What I mean to say is I have experience in a leadership role, and I urge you to make use of my expertise.
Noted. Rummaging through his spice bag, Lord Husband asked, Anything else?
Incensed by Lord Husbands dismissive attitude, Daxians handsome face had turned an ugly shade of purple. I have no idea how you rose as high as you have. Were going to war and your whole retinue is a mess.
Oh? Finally looking up from his work, Lord Husband looked more concerned than offended. Explain.
Taken aback by the abrupt change of attitude, Daxian expression was a mixture of confusion and suspicion. Well... Take the camp for example. Its set up well for defence, but the horses are left vulnerable on the flanks. Better to bring them into the centre where they can be protected and controlled.
Hmm... Good point. What else?
Your sentry line is too far out and spread too thin. Better to bring them closer and let more soldiers rest.
The Defiled often attack at night. Advanced warning would be nice.
But your sentries have no means to alert you, aside from riding back and shouting. By the time the camp wakes, the Defiled will nearly be upon us and a quarter of your force too far to help.
Well...but.... if... ah, Fuck. You're right. Gesturing for Daxian to take a seat, Lord Husband gave the veteran his full attention.
Accepting the invitation with satisfaction, Daxian continued, Your soldiers sleep where they please instead of staying grouped in their assigned units, which means if were attacked at night, theyll be scattered and disorganized. Whats more, their discipline is lacking, a sure sign of poor or absent leadership as any. Its expected with so many former bandits in your employ, but theres more to it. The Protectorate eschew all military law and do as they please. This indifference has spread to your other soldiers and their leaders have done little to arrest it.
Solution?
Replace the shirkers, starting with Jorani. Unapologetic over stabbing his half-brother in the back, Daxians sneered, Hes a drunk and layabout who has no business being in command.
No. Not Jorani. He doesnt look like much, but hes a born leader. Ive seen it with my own eyes.
Perhaps he was, but not anymore. Hes a broken man, and a soldier is only as useful as his commander. Replace him, or you will regret it.
...Ill sleep on it. Their back and forth continued, and though Luo-Luo was soon lost in the technicalities of travelling formations and tactical jargon, she swelled with pride watching Lord Husband at work. Though lacking in many areas, it could only be expected considering his meteoric rise. What impressed her the most was Lord Husbands willingness to swallow his pride and put aside their petty differences, accepting Daxians criticisms and suggestions without feeling personally attacked. A small matter it would seem, but Luo-Luo has seen many an Imperial Servant fall victim to pride time and time again. Seeing this, she resolved to learn from Daxians example and be as forthright about Lord Husbands flaws.
And perhaps even her desires...
Chapter Meme
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Chapter 396
Clinging to the mast for dear life, Luo-Luo clutched her cloak and wondered what crimes she could have possibly committed in her past lives to warrant such a miserable existence. Her thick, furred cloak was meagre shelter from the cold wind nipping at her cheeks, and a frightened gasp left her lungs burning as they hit a rough wave. It seemed to happen more often the further west they travelled, and Luo-Luo couldnt fathom why no one else appeared even remotely concerned by the shuddering grunts and tortured groans of their decrepit deathtrap the sailors insisted on calling a ship.
Its as if Luo-Luo were the only person alive still sane enough to know fear.
Take her handmaidens, Sorya and Anrhi for example, their cheeks rosy and smiles bright as they gazed out over the boundless waters. Unaffected by the frigid clime, the twin sisters were joined by Aurie and Sarankho as the four of them leaned over the railing to marvel at the quins and turtles swimming alongside. The ship swayed and lurched beneath their feet, but neither handmaiden showed the slightest hint of alarm or apprehension, though Luo-Luos stomach turned at the thought of losing one or both to the vast emptiness of the Azure Sea.
Oh how she envied their courageous ignorance.
Even then, their escapades paled in comparison to Lin-Lins, standing high above them all in the crow's nest with little more than a scarf to keep her warm. Madness is what it was, for even if Luo-Luo were a thousand times braver, she would still lack the courage to scale the frayed netting to such staggering heights while the ship rocked and rolled beneath her feet...
Trembling at the mere thought of it, Luo-Luo closed her eyes and hugged the mast even tighter. As much as she wanted to return to the warm confines of her cabin, shed promised Lin-Lin to look after the wildcats. Rather, she promised Sorya and Anrhi would look after the wildcats, and as terrified as she was out here on deck, shed be even more terrified locked in a room with two bored predators. At least here, there were plenty of sailors between Luo-Luo and the formidable creatures. Should they fail to protect her, then at least they could serve as distractions for the murderous felines. Though she had yet to be attacked, it seemed like it was only a matter of time before one of Lord Husbands beasts sank its fangs into Luo-Luos tender, delicate flesh, and she even knew which animal it would be.
The meanest and most murderous of Lord Husbands wildcats, Aurie.
The bears and other wildcats were content to leave Luo-Luo be, and while the bunnies and hare despised her, they were small, fragile creatures who could do no harm. Aurie, however, was relentless in his harassment, always bounding towards her with eyes wide and fangs bared. He enjoyed batting her ankles with sheathed claws and head-butting her away to say, Its no fun unless you run, prey.
As if listening to her thoughts, Aurie turned his unblinking stare towards her, his pupils expanding at the sight her trembling frame. With a slow lick of his jowls, the creature abandoned his post at the rails and padded towards her. Shrinking back at the sight, she kept the bulky mast between them and watched Auries slow approach with growing trepidation, her eyes locked on his as she tried to sink into the wooden pillar. One moment, Aurie was halfway across the deck and the next, Luo-Luo lost sight of him, only to realize the canny predator had circled around the mast to come up behind her when she felt his hot breath on her cheek. Too terrified to even breathe, Luo-Luo froze as Aurie rumbled beside her, his massive paw prodding her shoulder as he waited for her to turn and meet her grisly fate.This chapter is updated by nov(e)(l)biin.com
A high-pitched whine seeped from Luo-Luos lips and Auries rumbling rose to match it. Closing her eyes, Luo-Luo turned away and curled into a ball, but the wildcat moved closer to rest his chin atop her head, the cruel and sadistic beast finding delight in her fear and misery.
Tch, enough of your games, Aurie, Anrhi said, and the wildcats heavy weight lifted off of Luo-Luo. Silly kitten, cant ye see yer scaring milady? She dont want to cuddle, and thats that. Aurie yowled in response and the sound sent a shiver down Luo-Luos spine, but Anrhi stood firm, her voice unwavering. Enough of yer whinging. Go on now, back to the railing with you. Get. Hearing no growling or screaming, Luo-Luo found the courage to open her eyes and saw Aurie plodding away, his head low and tail tucked. Settling down beside her, Anrhi hugged Luo-Luo much like she hugged the mast. Its all right milady, Anrhi said, her voice low and soothing. Anrhis here now, aint nothing to be a feared of.
With a plaintive whimper, Luo-Luo said, Hes so horrid, always tormenting me whenever he can and Lord Husband does nothing to stop him.
Oh, Auries a big ol sweetheart, he is. He jus came over to say hello.
Anrhis tone was one usually reserved for reassuring children afraid of the dark, but Luo-Luos worries were all too real. Resisting the urge to snap at the foolish handmaiden, Luo-Luo instead asked, How are you not afraid of them? Theyre wild animals, liable to snap at a moments notice.
Anrhi shrugged. Same could be said of most nobles I been around, but with the bears and wildcats, a little dried meat buys ye a lotta goodwill.
The thought of hand-feeding Lord Husbands pets made Luo-Luo shiver in terror. I think he hates me.
Even Luo-Luo thought she sounded whiny, but Anrhi responded in stride. No he dont milady, aint a mean bone in Auries body. He aint the prettiest creature around, but youd be hard pressed to find a sweeter kitten anywhere in the Empire, I swear on Mum above I do. After a brief hesitation, Anrhis voice dropped to a whisper, though still loud enough to hear over the flapping sails and howling winds. Beggin me pardon fer sayin so milady, but ifn ye wantin to be closer with Master Rain, then charmin his petsd be a good start. He loves them something fierce he does, I daresay much as he loves his family. Itd be something to bond over, fer sure.
As if things were so simple. Luo-Luo might as well strive to become Lord Husbands Martial peer for all the good this advice did. She knew what needed to be done, but she had no way to follow through with her plans. Her efforts at seduction served only to drive him into another womans arms and her hard work in his cast iron venture almost failed horrifically when Lord Husband tried to use it as an excuse to leave her in Nan Ping. Oh, his words were sweet enough, claiming he needed her there for the business and it was all for her safety, but Luo-Luo saw through his true thoughts. In his beautiful amber eyes, Luo-Luos perceived value was below even that of Tali and Tate, a grown woman who could neither defend nor care for herself. At least the children had an excuse and were learning to be useful, but Lord Husband saw all of Luo-Luos pursuits as frivolous and wasteful. He had yet to hear her play or watch her dance, read her poems or appreciate her paintings, because he placed no value on the fine arts. Even his expensive collection was merely a means to an end, gifts to be given or merchandise to be sold, leaving it in the wagons instead of admiring them as they should be.
In short, Lord Husband was an obtuse philistine, which severely limited Luo-Luos options to win him over.
And I am a current Second Grade Warrant Officer. Whats your point?
What I mean to say is I have experience in a leadership role, and I urge you to make use of my expertise.
Noted. Rummaging through his spice bag, Lord Husband asked, Anything else?
Incensed by Lord Husbands dismissive attitude, Daxians handsome face had turned an ugly shade of purple. I have no idea how you rose as high as you have. Were going to war and your whole retinue is a mess.
Oh? Finally looking up from his work, Lord Husband looked more concerned than offended. Explain.
Taken aback by the abrupt change of attitude, Daxian expression was a mixture of confusion and suspicion. Well... Take the camp for example. Its set up well for defence, but the horses are left vulnerable on the flanks. Better to bring them into the centre where they can be protected and controlled.
Hmm... Good point. What else?
Your sentry line is too far out and spread too thin. Better to bring them closer and let more soldiers rest.
The Defiled often attack at night. Advanced warning would be nice.
But your sentries have no means to alert you, aside from riding back and shouting. By the time the camp wakes, the Defiled will nearly be upon us and a quarter of your force too far to help.
Well...but.... if... ah, Fuck. You're right. Gesturing for Daxian to take a seat, Lord Husband gave the veteran his full attention.
Accepting the invitation with satisfaction, Daxian continued, Your soldiers sleep where they please instead of staying grouped in their assigned units, which means if were attacked at night, theyll be scattered and disorganized. Whats more, their discipline is lacking, a sure sign of poor or absent leadership as any. Its expected with so many former bandits in your employ, but theres more to it. The Protectorate eschew all military law and do as they please. This indifference has spread to your other soldiers and their leaders have done little to arrest it.
Solution?
Replace the shirkers, starting with Jorani. Unapologetic over stabbing his half-brother in the back, Daxians sneered, Hes a drunk and layabout who has no business being in command.
No. Not Jorani. He doesnt look like much, but hes a born leader. Ive seen it with my own eyes.
Perhaps he was, but not anymore. Hes a broken man, and a soldier is only as useful as his commander. Replace him, or you will regret it.
...Ill sleep on it. Their back and forth continued, and though Luo-Luo was soon lost in the technicalities of travelling formations and tactical jargon, she swelled with pride watching Lord Husband at work. Though lacking in many areas, it could only be expected considering his meteoric rise. What impressed her the most was Lord Husbands willingness to swallow his pride and put aside their petty differences, accepting Daxians criticisms and suggestions without feeling personally attacked. A small matter it would seem, but Luo-Luo has seen many an Imperial Servant fall victim to pride time and time again. Seeing this, she resolved to learn from Daxians example and be as forthright about Lord Husbands flaws.
And perhaps even her desires...
Chapter Meme
Chapter 396Clinging to the mast for dear life, Luo-Luo clutched her cloak and wondered what crimes she could have possibly committed in her past lives to warrant such a miserable existence. Her thick, furred cloak was meagre shelter from the cold wind nipping at her cheeks, and a frightened gasp left her lungs burning as they hit a rough wave. It seemed to happen more often the further west they travelled, and Luo-Luo couldnt fathom why no one else appeared even remotely concerned by the shuddering grunts and tortured groans of their decrepit deathtrap the sailors insisted on calling a ship.Its as if Luo-Luo were the only person alive still sane enough to know fear.Take her handmaidens, Sorya and Anrhi for example, their cheeks rosy and smiles bright as they gazed out over the boundless waters. Unaffected by the frigid clime, the twin sisters were joined by Aurie and Sarankho as the four of them leaned over the railing to marvel at the quins and turtles swimming alongside. The ship swayed and lurched beneath their feet, but neither handmaiden showed the slightest hint of alarm or apprehension, though Luo-Luos stomach turned at the thought of losing one or both to the vast emptiness of the Azure Sea.Oh how she envied their courageous ignorance.Even then, their escapades paled in comparison to Lin-Lins, standing high above them all in the crow's nest with little more than a scarf to keep her warm. Madness is what it was, for even if Luo-Luo were a thousand times braver, she would still lack the courage to scale the frayed netting to such staggering heights while the ship rocked and rolled beneath her feet...Trembling at the mere thought of it, Luo-Luo closed her eyes and hugged the mast even tighter. As much as she wanted to return to the warm confines of her cabin, shed promised Lin-Lin to look after the wildcats. Rather, she promised Sorya and Anrhi would look after the wildcats, and as terrified as she was out here on deck, shed be even more terrified locked in a room with two bored predators. At least here, there were plenty of sailors between Luo-Luo and the formidable creatures. Should they fail to protect her, then at least they could serve as distractions for the murderous felines. Though she had yet to be attacked, it seemed like it was only a matter of time before one of Lord Husbands beasts sank its fangs into Luo-Luos tender, delicate flesh, and she even knew which animal it would be.The meanest and most murderous of Lord Husbands wildcats, Aurie.The bears and other wildcats were content to leave Luo-Luo be, and while the bunnies and hare despised her, they were small, fragile creatures who could do no harm. Aurie, however, was relentless in his harassment, always bounding towards her with eyes wide and fangs bared. He enjoyed batting her ankles with sheathed claws and head-butting her away to say, Its no fun unless you run, prey.As if listening to her thoughts, Aurie turned his unblinking stare towards her, his pupils expanding at the sight her trembling frame. With a slow lick of his jowls, the creature abandoned his post at the rails and padded towards her. Shrinking back at the sight, she kept the bulky mast between them and watched Auries slow approach with growing trepidation, her eyes locked on his as she tried to sink into the wooden pillar. One moment, Aurie was halfway across the deck and the next, Luo-Luo lost sight of him, only to realize the canny predator had circled around the mast to come up behind her when she felt his hot breath on her cheek. Too terrified to even breathe, Luo-Luo froze as Aurie rumbled beside her, his massive paw prodding her shoulder as he waited for her to turn and meet her grisly fate.This chapter is updated by novelbiin.comA high-pitched whine seeped from Luo-Luos lips and Auries rumbling rose to match it. Closing her eyes, Luo-Luo turned away and curled into a ball, but the wildcat moved closer to rest his chin atop her head, the cruel and sadistic beast finding delight in her fear and misery.Tch, enough of your games, Aurie, Anrhi said, and the wildcats heavy weight lifted off of Luo-Luo. Silly kitten, cant ye see yer scaring milady? She dont want to cuddle, and thats that. Aurie yowled in response and the sound sent a shiver down Luo-Luos spine, but Anrhi stood firm, her voice unwavering. Enough of yer whinging. Go on now, back to the railing with you. Get. Hearing no growling or screaming, Luo-Luo found the courage to open her eyes and saw Aurie plodding away, his head low and tail tucked. Settling down beside her, Anrhi hugged Luo-Luo much like she hugged the mast. Its all right milady, Anrhi said, her voice low and soothing. Anrhis here now, aint nothing to be a feared of.With a plaintive whimper, Luo-Luo said, Hes so horrid, always tormenting me whenever he can and Lord Husband does nothing to stop him.Oh, Auries a big ol sweetheart, he is. He jus came over to say hello.Anrhis tone was one usually reserved for reassuring children afraid of the dark, but Luo-Luos worries were all too real. Resisting the urge to snap at the foolish handmaiden, Luo-Luo instead asked, How are you not afraid of them? Theyre wild animals, liable to snap at a moments notice.Anrhi shrugged. Same could be said of most nobles I been around, but with the bears and wildcats, a little dried meat buys ye a lotta goodwill.The thought of hand-feeding Lord Husbands pets made Luo-Luo shiver in terror. I think he hates me.Even Luo-Luo thought she sounded whiny, but Anrhi responded in stride. No he dont milady, aint a mean bone in Auries body. He aint the prettiest creature around, but youd be hard pressed to find a sweeter kitten anywhere in the Empire, I swear on Mum above I do. After a brief hesitation, Anrhis voice dropped to a whisper, though still loud enough to hear over the flapping sails and howling winds. Beggin me pardon fer sayin so milady, but ifn ye wantin to be closer with Master Rain, then charmin his petsd be a good start. He loves them something fierce he does, I daresay much as he loves his family. Itd be something to bond over, fer sure.As if things were so simple. Luo-Luo might as well strive to become Lord Husbands Martial peer for all the good this advice did. She knew what needed to be done, but she had no way to follow through with her plans. Her efforts at seduction served only to drive him into another womans arms and her hard work in his cast iron venture almost failed horrifically when Lord Husband tried to use it as an excuse to leave her in Nan Ping. Oh, his words were sweet enough, claiming he needed her there for the business and it was all for her safety, but Luo-Luo saw through his true thoughts. In his beautiful amber eyes, Luo-Luos perceived value was below even that of Tali and Tate, a grown woman who could neither defend nor care for herself. At least the children had an excuse and were learning to be useful, but Lord Husband saw all of Luo-Luos pursuits as frivolous and wasteful. He had yet to hear her play or watch her dance, read her poems or appreciate her paintings, because he placed no value on the fine arts. Even his expensive collection was merely a means to an end, gifts to be given or merchandise to be sold, leaving it in the wagons instead of admiring them as they should be.In short, Lord Husband was an obtuse philistine, which severely limited Luo-Luos options to win him over.And I am a current Second Grade Warrant Officer. Whats your point?What I mean to say is I have experience in a leadership role, and I urge you to make use of my expertise.Noted. Rummaging through his spice bag, Lord Husband asked, Anything else?Incensed by Lord Husbands dismissive attitude, Daxians handsome face had turned an ugly shade of purple. I have no idea how you rose as high as you have. Were going to war and your whole retinue is a mess.Oh? Finally looking up from his work, Lord Husband looked more concerned than offended. Explain.Taken aback by the abrupt change of attitude, Daxian expression was a mixture of confusion and suspicion. Well... Take the camp for example. Its set up well for defence, but the horses are left vulnerable on the flanks. Better to bring them into the centre where they can be protected and controlled.Hmm... Good point. What else?Your sentry line is too far out and spread too thin. Better to bring them closer and let more soldiers rest.The Defiled often attack at night. Advanced warning would be nice.But your sentries have no means to alert you, aside from riding back and shouting. By the time the camp wakes, the Defiled will nearly be upon us and a quarter of your force too far to help.Well...but.... if... ah, Fuck. You're right. Gesturing for Daxian to take a seat, Lord Husband gave the veteran his full attention.Accepting the invitation with satisfaction, Daxian continued, Your soldiers sleep where they please instead of staying grouped in their assigned units, which means if were attacked at night, theyll be scattered and disorganized. Whats more, their discipline is lacking, a sure sign of poor or absent leadership as any. Its expected with so many former bandits in your employ, but theres more to it. The Protectorate eschew all military law and do as they please. This indifference has spread to your other soldiers and their leaders have done little to arrest it.Solution?Replace the shirkers, starting with Jorani. Unapologetic over stabbing his half-brother in the back, Daxians sneered, Hes a drunk and layabout who has no business being in command.No. Not Jorani. He doesnt look like much, but hes a born leader. Ive seen it with my own eyes.Perhaps he was, but not anymore. Hes a broken man, and a soldier is only as useful as his commander. Replace him, or you will regret it....Ill sleep on it. Their back and forth continued, and though Luo-Luo was soon lost in the technicalities of travelling formations and tactical jargon, she swelled with pride watching Lord Husband at work. Though lacking in many areas, it could only be expected considering his meteoric rise. What impressed her the most was Lord Husbands willingness to swallow his pride and put aside their petty differences, accepting Daxians criticisms and suggestions without feeling personally attacked. A small matter it would seem, but Luo-Luo has seen many an Imperial Servant fall victim to pride time and time again. Seeing this, she resolved to learn from Daxians example and be as forthright about Lord Husbands flaws.And perhaps even her desires...Chapter Meme
