One Way to Look At It

“Any news on your quarry?” Old Master sharpened his cimeter absently.

“Rastaban’s army has vanished,” Shanka said.

“Really? How?”

“Based on what the scouts have told me, they lost too many men and disbanded.” Shanka knelt to sharpen her own sword.

“Sounds like you disbelieve your own scouts.” Old Master’s tone was smug.

“I’m patient,” Shanka said. “And if he really has disbanded, then we can take the Indus River Valley as we’ve always wanted.” A smile played across her lips. “I’m sure the daughters of Maya and Kali will make wondrous warriors.”

“That’s one way to look at it.”