Bal-jarrak’s mouth, open for its next sentence, shut like a trap.
“Forgive me,” repeated Galdtchav, “but I of all people should not let this moment pass without a word.” He glanced towards Jarthastra, who nodded. “I will be brief, fear not.”
Bal-jarrak writhed with impatience.
Briskly, Galdtchav continued. “I need not repeat Lord Bal-jarrak’s most excellent welcome to the priesthood. I am simply grateful for the gifted young man Arna has today added to our ranks. The praise of ability is the honour of the One on High, as Ar-ven told us. Therefore, I extol what I have observed, namely the abilities of the assistant whose learning most likely outstrips my own, and who I regard as my equal.”
Azhur burned crimson.
“It is, I am convinced, a sign of Arna’s favour that Lord Azhur’s priesthoo
