" "And none of them," Balkar countered, "have ever been a particularly large force in all my years." "And none of them," Balkar countered, "have ever been a particularly large force in all my years." "That is fortunate for them," the young knight returned. "Our enemies have learned that any force sent against us is doomed. It is not our fault that they are intelligent enough to prefer the certain destruction of hundreds over that of thousands." "Thousands?" Balkar immediately probed. "The army of Tavect does what is required of it," King Fionn interceded, determined not to let the wizard call his bluff. The belief of an invincible army was all Tavect had to protect itself with, and King Fionn knew it all too well. Brianna's spendthrift habits had resulted in his neglect of national security, yet a fortuitous marriage could bolster that security as never before, but he would have to maintain the hoax for a while yet to bargain from a position of strength. "Perhaps, Good King," Duke Zuberbier ventured, "you are too lenient with your taxes? The only way to live well is through the purses of others, and really, what use have the peasants for money? They certainly aren't smart enough to spend it properly." "My taxes are more than sufficient," Fionn replied, looking suspiciously at the golden apples that Camille was offering him before taking one. It's my management of money that's to blame, he added silently. His mind drifted to his daughter's wardrobe, filled with gowns and accessories that went out of fashion far too quickly for what they cost, and her lavish jewelry collection. |