Then it was Bel-ghirá’s turn. With no trace of excitement, pride, or gratitude disturbing that fish-mask of a face, the little priest stood in the ceremonial armour of the Master of Armaments. The burnished breastplate would hardly have turned a fruit-knife but with the crested helm and scarlet robes, it made regalia in the ancient style that allowed almost anyone to look honourable and splendid. Bel-ghirá, however, looked somewhat absurd.
Jarthastra stepped forward, next to Bel-ghirá. This was the most difficult part of the ceremony. It was not yet entirely clear to the city what had happened at Vardresh. A Harrak attack, the city burning, and a dark stain left hanging in the sky to the west were the main details known. The main military concerns were the policing of the area, establishi
