Aurelian could almost feel people doing the same calculations Orvain had done.
Frontier territory meant danger, but it also meant land, posts, resources, merit, command experience, and the chance to become important before the region grew crowded.
Orvain's voice remained steady.
"I intend to align our branch's future development with Aurelian's Crownward March."
When he said that, the room fell silent as people took deep breaths at the sudden news.
Some people looked shocked.
Others looked excited.
A few older administrators immediately looked worried, which Aurelian actually appreciated because those were the people who understood how much work such a move would create.
Maeron leaned forward, eyes bright. "So there is a fight."
Orvain closed his eyes briefly.
"There may be many fights. That is not the point."
"It sounds like a very good point."
"Maeron."
He leaned back again, though he did not look sorry.
