How had they come here so quickly? And how did the Empress know that they would? The only possibility in answer to the first question was: by warren. Yet, who among the Adjunct's retinue could fashion a gate of such power and breadth? Quick Ben? Pearl did not think that likely.
That bastard liked his secrets, and he liked playing both a weakling and something considerably deadlier, but neither conceit impressed Pearl. No, Tavore's High Mage didn't have what was necessary to open such a massive rift.
Leaving those damned foreigners. And that was very troubling indeed.
Perhaps it might prove a propitious moment for some kind of preemptive, covert action. Which would, now that the Empress had arrived, be possible after all. And expedient – for we have no idea who has now come among us, right to the heart of the empire. A foreign navy, arriving virtually unopposed… within striking distance of the Empress herself.
It was going to be a busy night.
'Pearl.'
The voice was low, yet he did not need to turn round to know who had spoken. He knew, as well, that Empress Laseen would frown disapprovingly should he turn to face her. Odd habits, that way. No, just paranoia. 'Good evening, Empress.'
'Does this view please you?'
Pearl grimaced. 'She has arrived. In all, well timed for everyone concerned.'
'Do you look forward to seeing her again?'
'I travelled in her company for some time, Empress.'
'And?'
'And, to answer your question, I am… indifferent.'
'My Adjunct does not inspire loyalty?'
'Not with me, Empress. Nor, I think, with the soldiers of the Fourteenth Army.'
'And yet, Pearl, has she failed them? Even once?'
'Y'Ghatan-'
The seemingly disembodied voice interrupted him. 'Do not be a fool.
This is you and I, Pearl, speaking here. In absolute private. What occurred at Y'Ghatan could not have been anticipated, by anyone. Given that, Adjunct Tavore's actions were proper and, indeed, laudable.'
'Very well,' Pearl said, remembering that night of flames… the distant screams he could hear from inside his tent – when in my anger and hurt, I hid, like some child. 'Facts aside, Empress, the matter hinges upon how one is perceived.'