– Why now? Tan asked.
– I suppose there are several reasons for this. Firstly, in two weeks the meeting of the high command will take place, where the question of the final stage of the war will be decided. And the advice of an experienced military leader will be extremely useful. Also do not forget that 20 years ago, King Virgil and King Orme made peace between our states. And on this occasion, the king wants to organize a feast and festivities. Of course, I understand that you have your own scores with the Wotans, but for me it is better to drink ale at the celebration of peace than to choke on blood in a war.
Tan understood this very well. Over the long years of service in the army, he saw a lot and agreed with the general. For all his hatred of Wotan, he even felt sympathy for King Orm.
Twenty years ago, Orme became a rebel general who overthrew his ruler, the brutal King Reim. And immediately after that, he made an appeal to end this senseless war unleashed by his king. When Athanasius was young and inexperienced, he assumed that Orma made the people king in gratitude for the liberation from the tyrant and the end of the bloody war. But now he knew that the power he received was due to the power that he had. There was an army behind him, that's the whole secret.
– You must understand, continued Swann, life at court is not sweet to me myself. However, this position opens up great opportunities and prospects. Tell me, how many senseless sacrifices could have been avoided if the council had people who know their business? Competent commanders who have fought more than once themselves?
There he looked at the general, and, meeting his eyes, nodded to him in approval.
After a few minutes of silence, and enjoying the chirping of birds and the sound of trees, General Swann continued.
– Tell me, how are you doing on the personal front?
The corners of Tan's lips lifted slightly. He could not seriously talk about such a topic. – Nothing serious. I guess I'm not made for family life.
– From what? the general asked. You're still young. Representatives of our race live on average about a hundred years. So you still have time to find that one. Have offspring. A reliable rear has not harmed anyone yet.
Tan retorted, – Well, judge for yourself, whose husband is always not at home, and who may not return from another campaign. Not an enviable share for a girl.