Shisen stood fast. Granmarljin hovered over to him, "I
gave you a direct order soldier."
Shisen said levelly, "Your orders are those of a spineless
coward. Any modicum of respect that I might have entertained
about you is obviously a mistake. You have no honour whatsoever.
I shall take up my complaint directly with Nim."
Granmarljin began to growl deep in his throat. He eyed
the reticent living scarecrow. The growl subsided and he roared
in a voice more lion's than man's, "Mutinous traitor!"
Shisen stood his ground. After a moment his mouth curled
in a sneer. He reached over his shoulder and drew his Battle Fury
Claymore. "You have tried to sully my honour for the last time
General. Ready your weapon."
Shisen began to cast a spell. Granmarljin backed away
and threw back his head. He bellowed, "Daavi, teach him some
manners!"
The scorpion-man scrambled forward drawing his lengthy rune
weapon Sojanna. Shisen completed his spell and a shimmering blue
shield appeared on his left arm. Daavi drew to within melee
range and mystic armour appeared on the scarecrow. Shisen said,
"I expected as much from one such as you."
Daavi waved him on with his free hand and told him, "Come get
some."
Shisen's sword was lucky if it was half the length of Sojanna.
Shisen stepped in closer well aware
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