Bolstering Defenses

As the Queen walked around anyone looking would think she was bored but her eyes were taking everything in and what was being said. She asked the new commander what the biggest problem was and the commander told the Queen it was manpower.

"Where does you manpower come from commander?" asked Arerto.

"Lord Griffin is meant to provide troops but he keeps the creme for himself. We get the lesser troops and criminals who last a day then desert." replied the commander.

Arerto made a mental note to speak with Lord Griffin when she traveled back to Talia's capitol. The Queen made some observations about improving defense's. After a light lunch they left the headquarters and Arerto smiled as two smartly dressed guards snapped to attention. When they were mounted and headed back to see Lord Griffin,Arerto sent a rider ahead telling her to deliver a message to. She wanted the cities troop turned out for inspection on her arrival. Sabine questioned the Queen on why she had removed the commander.

"It was an easy choice Sabine. Firstly to have a good command you need good commanders. As a commander you must be aware of your troops capabilities. Cannot do when your asleep half the day. What did you note on our departure Sabine."

"There were guards posted at headquarters your majesty" replied Sabine.

"Exactly. We shall see if it continues and if not i will fire him."

As they finally neared the city they could see ranks of troops lining the street all replete in shinning armor and polished weaponry. Areto and Sabine dismounted and headed towards the ranks of the troops and was soon joined by Lord Griffin. As she finished the inspection she looked at Lord Griffin.

"Tell me Lord Griffin how many troops do you have here?"Arerto

"Five thousand of the finest troops Arerto." replied Lord Griffin.

Areto pulled Lord Griffin in close and said.

"I have not given you leave to address me by name. Queen Arerto or your Majesty will suffice understood?"

Lord Griffin was taken a back but put a smile on his face to hide the fact he had been chastised.

"Now Lord Griffin i want you to transfer a company of your best troops to Gaileo. I want the border properly protected from now on."

Lord Griffin told the Queen that it could not be done and his blood was beginning to boil. Arerto hand came to rest on the hilt of her sword.

"You wish to challenge my authority Lord Griffin"