"Tomàs. We've received a summons to send a representative to Her Majesty's Constitutional Convention this summer."

"Lictor, ma'am. That sounds... chaotic."

"Most likely. But Her Majesty and her archmage allies have treated us with respect and honor and shown every indication that they support our mission. So I hold it would be dishonorable not to honor the summons and send a representative."

"I must agree. Have you chosen me, ma'am?"

"If you have a reason why you should not be sent, I am willing to entertain it. But you're well-spoken and a leader, so I think you will represent us well, and argue our interests well if they come up. And your rank is such that it is not a slight to send you rather than myself."

"I see. I would rather be in the field, ma'am, but your logic is sound."

"You'd be stuck here training armigers anyway, Anna. It's no worse than my job."

"Well. That's why I don't want your job, Lesheir."

"Tough. Duty calls, Mistress of Blades."

"And I will answer it, ma'am. I just hope I don't have a duty to enjoy it."

"You do not. You'll do well. You have a few months to pick scribes or armigers to accompany you; we'll at least want copies of the legal code when it's confirmed."

"Yes, ma'am. I'll prepare the training schedule for my absence as well."