Avshar gave the approaching men a level share. "This farce is amusing, but I'm afraid I don't have time to play games with children."

He made a single, sorcerous gesture, triggering a spell that had been months in the making. The line of generals and officers approaching Avshar nervously, suddenly came to a ragged halt, the look of fearful determination replaced with a look of fanatical loyalty.

"I rule here now. Remove this piece of offal from my war room."