A Test of Readiness

[Jovianus Marcus]

"As soon as I gather my best man, I will be ready to go. I can be off in a few days time. That should give your man enough time to get matters organized, I imagine." Marcus would have to speak with Lucius on the matter, but for now, he was going to enjoy the meal that had been put before him. He had not eaten since breakfast, so busy had the day been.

Picking up the mug once again, he held it up to him to salute and then smiled, "To the Empire and to the future."

[Jovanius Henricus]

"It will," the Emperor nodded in agreement. "I expect an update from him tonight or tomorrow. Once I receive it, I shall forward it on to you, and send a reply that he should prepare himself for you. How do you plan to travel, so that I may tell him to meet you?" If he had his choice, Marcus would go by sea as far as the southwestern edge of Demeria; he would prefer his heir did not risk himself against that ragtag lot of Lintenese pirate-smugglers.

Satisfied to hear that Marcus intended take Lucius, a distant cousin through his late wife, Henry applied himself to his meal with renewed gusto. Lucius was a good man in a fight and would see his own blood spilt before a drop of Marcus's could be drawn. Lifting his mug, he smiled with patriarchal pride in his progency. "To the Empire, and to your future, my son."

[Jovianus Marcus]

"I will likely travel by sea. It will go faster. Unless, that is, inconvenient for our contact in Demeria." He had no idea where the man was situated. It was better to be aware of all possible options before making a decision. He wanted to be as safe as possible about this. Brave Marcus may be, but he was not going to be a fool.

[Jovanius Henricus]

"A good choice." His approval nodded, he finished off his ale and rapped the mug on the table to signal the servant that he desired more; they could also continue serving the meal. His appetite was thoroughly whetted by the prospect of his son's success and the glory of his impending success. "I will send word, and he will be waiting for you on the border to aid your progress, then your egress from Demeria. I look forward to hearing of what comes."