The two lovers has been at work securing the southern border of the Sleepy Mountain, ensuring Phleibas, the engineer, the time he needs to complete the building. He is of a delicate physique and the journey from Arcoscephale did not sit well with him. He is dying, and only my will and Epihania's allure makes him endure his work despite his fever. I send Hieronyma south to tend him and ensure he lives long enough to oversee the walls and towers be raised. Others can deal with the petty details that follows.
To the north-west, Grifec is scouring the swamps at the mouth of the river Dust, destroying the tribes of lizard-men who make them their home. I have not forgotten how they once sided with the Pantokrator against me, nor have I forgiven.
From Grifec I am told of merchants who ply their trade on Dust, and on rumours they bring of a new power rising in the south, near its springs. Along with the two empires that already threatens my south-western border, this is troubling news. It seems time is no longer my ally. Perhaps the ranging huntesmen of Muspel can be sent out to bring back word from beyond the sight of my still half-closed
eyes.
