At the mention of Shory, the governor-general looked mildly interested, while Magus Legrand turned her head sharply and studied Maia with keen eyes.<br/><br/>"Welcome to New Salay, Maia of the Shory," the governor-general said. His eyes moved to Celeste, and she knew what he was about to say. "Shory. Strange, that. I seem to have numerous reports littering my desk, all describing an 'ancient and extinct civilization', to use the author's words."<br/><br/>"Reports that will soon be amended," Celeste replied. While Galadon had an interest in her research, her speed at writing exceeded his at reading. And now he was likely to be overwhelmed. "But governor, there are more pressing matters."<br/><br/>"Indeed, but this is not a proper place to discuss them," Magus Legrand said. In contrast to Galadon, her voice held the crisp command of authority. "Let us take them, troubles and all, to the palace."<br/><br/>Galadon agreed. As his word was law, they proceeded along the road to the left, winding through the outpost.<br/><br/><hr/><br/>The palace was an edifice of white stone rising from a cliff overlooking the sea. Once it was probably a cathedral, but whatever gods had been worshipped there had been abandoned long ago. The front half of the structure had been reclaimed, though much work remained to be done. The doors were crude, unfinished wood. Cracks ran through many interior walls, and windows that once held colored glass were now covered in boards or waxed hides.<br/><br/>The plaza before it had been occupied by men and women practicing at weapons, with swords made of strips of wood bound together, or mock spears padded at one end. Their quarters lay elsewhere; the palace housed the governor-general, Magus Legrand, a few other lords and officers, as well as chambers for meetings and audiences.<br/><br/>It was one of the smaller rooms that they adjourned to. The table sat no more than ten comfortably. A sideboard held numerous charts and maps, while a row of bookshelves held volumes on Taldan history and law. Oil lamps cast a soft, pleasing glow. Two guards were stationed outside, who at times interrupted the proceedings to admit servants with trays of food and wine, and Dugald and his guards, who were called upon to give their account of events.<br/><br/>Most was described by Celeste and Maia, however. Galadon listened patiently, now and then making a comment or asking a question, but was content to let Magus Legrand do most of the interrogating. Sunset was approaching by the time they were done, and Celeste found herself stifling yawns and struggling to keep her eyes open.<br/><br/>Galadon sat with crossed arms, lips moving as if he were repeating things to himself. Finally, he nodded. "I will need another day or two to decide. An expedition of that size will put us several weeks behind schedule, not to mention that splitting our forces will make us easier prey for Cheliax. If I were a Chelaxian and wanted to attack this outpost, I would spin a story much like the one you tell. However, these creatures and their aura of chaos lend credence to your story, and explain things we did not previously understand. I make no promises, but Taldor always welcomes allies and does not shrink from danger."<br/><br/>Celeste hoped his answer was sufficient. She knew Galadon had to be careful, for Chelaxians had played such tricks in the past. But she had no doubt that Maia's story was true. From the very first day they had arrived on Celanta, the wizards had noticed interference that wreaked havoc with some of their spells.<br/>