watching the Elite Corps ride in formation, dressed out smartly in the best gear money could buy.

Money we have aplenty, the Divine King thought grimly, a ripe plum. We must be sure that our ripeness conceals a core of skystone.

He had been camped here for three days, meeting with his generals and observing the might of the Elamite armies.

He slapped his heavily muscled thighs and stood as the last of the troops passed.

The King of Elam turned a grim smile on his generals who stood at his side. There was approval in his voice, and a note of deep satisfaction.

"We are ready. Let the war come."