The shadow beneath the awning's support pole had crept a hand's width across the felt since Subutai had spoken last. Sweat darkened the collar of Torghul's coat, and even Dorbei had rolled his sleeves past his elbows against the heat. Beyond the horse lines, a smith's hammer struck iron in a steady rhythm until it stopped for a single moment, making the silence noticeable only because the sound had been constant.
Batu studied the seven men still gathered around the table. There was no reason to complicate the first decision.
"Vyazma and Dorogobuzh are yours."
He looked to Torghul.
"Take your tumen and leave as soon as you're ready."
Torghul had already started turning toward the horse lines before Batu finished speaking.
"Ready now. I don't need to sit through the rest of this."
"Tomorrow. First light. You'll lead the column out ahead of the rest."
