For an arch lord like Balarun, the contents of the pouch were trivial. The gesture, however, was not. It was a sign of respect from Orion, a public acknowledgment of his power that allowed him to stand down without losing face. It made him feel not only validated but respected.
"A worthy gesture, Lord Orion," Balarun rumbled. "Head southwest. At the pace of a Bone-gnawer, you'll be out of the canyon in seven days. Beyond the canyon is a contested zone. No arch lord claims it."
An unclaimed land, as far as Orion was concerned, was a free-for-all. Balarun, of course, was politely guiding a potential threat out of his territory. If Orion was lying about his intentions, the chaotic lands beyond the canyon were the line Balarun was drawing in the sand. Orion saw the move for what it was and didn't care. His ambitions lay far beyond the third level.
"Thank you for the guidance, Lord Balarun."
