Science and Magic

It was only a day and a half journey to the western coast on horseback, and by late morning Nurlan could just make out the line of the ocean on the horizon. He dug his heels into his steed, wanting to arrive before the noonday meal was served to the troops. Outside the small town, a camp of soldiers' tents were erected around a larger tent and cookfire in the center. Reaching the edge of the camp, Nurlan dismounted and headed for the largest canvas building.

"General Nurlan!" The senior officer inside the tent stood and greeted the newcomer. "We have been expecting you." Both Nurlan and Junayd outranked all but the highest commander in the military. They each held the title of General. Had they not wished to be the personal guards of the Emperor and Empress, they could have had shining military careers.

"You have a large group here," Nurlan observed as the men sat down to discuss business. "Have you run into any trouble since you got here?"

"No sir," Lieutenant