"But if I stay here and we never return again to Ashrya, then I will never be anyone else's husband. I will never betray Carol."
"That only works until we send you back to Ashrya to do your job. Then you will have to visit Aileen or your parents will be notified that you are ignoring your wife."
"You know that I have been in serious discussions with Alfric."
"I thought he was getting better."
"He is. But he is too old to be constantly fighting on the front lines. I want you to take over his position."
Daran's face grew bright. "You want me to be the Commandant General? But aren't I supposed to be a General first before becoming a Commandant General?"
Zander nodded. "That's right."
"So I can't do his job yet."
Zander gave him a desultory look. "Why not, General Daran?"
"Excuse me? Your Majesty, you can't just—"
"Did I hear you right?" Zander cupped his ear at Daran.
