'What do you know about the Sky Warrior?'
It wasn't the encounter she'd expected. When they last met, her uncle had showered her with presents from Ibero. Now he was acting like an inquisitor. Adrina thought before replying.
'I prayed to the Holy Mother and she sent him to me.'
'Where does he come from?'
It was as if her uncle was going down a list of questions. He was her father's younger brother. He'd once been so exciting. Now she saw the other side of him. The Catti had forged a pact with the rebellious nations of the empire and she was a product of that union.
'The Sky Warrior comes from another realm.'
She replied and saw the fixed expression on his face. Adrina knew what happened when blood was mixed. People shouted acclaim. But it rarely lasted. When alliances fell apart innocent children suffered. It was a fear that had haunted her young life.
'He is called Head Master but his role is that of War Master,' her uncle said. 'The common people flock about him. How do we know he will not try to seize power?'
'The Holy Mother would not send such a person.'
'How do we know She sent him?'
There was a heavy note of sarcasm in his voice and Adrina chose not to reply. She knew it would only lead to an argument. When her uncle next spoke it was to make a statement.
'Morgon is preparing to attack. He is intent on drawing your mother's people into battle. I am sure you are aware of that.'
Adrina's dark eyes flashed.
It will be a battle he cannot win.'
'What makes you think that?'
'The moment the tide turns against him, the Gorms will attack his rear. I live amongst them, Uncle. I know how much they hate Morgon and the foul god he serves.'
'Aye, but do they hate him more than they hate your mother's people?'
'Through the Holy Mother all things are possible, Uncle. When the tide of battle turns the two people shall be as one. They will unite against Morgon's men. I pray that the brothers from Ibero will join them.'
Her uncle examined her coldly.
'The brothers from Ibero will do nothing unless they can be sure that they will be on the winning side. The consequences of being defeated would be disastrous for them and their families. The empire shows no mercy to those who are disloyal. You must be aware of that when you make your plans, Niece.'