Aweit laughed aloud. After half a year of campaigning, battered by wind and sun, his complexion was slightly reddened, his features defined and rugged, and his expression even more resolute. In his casual banter, he seemed more unrestrained and bold than before, with an added undercurrent of merciless severity.
"Your Majesty, should some stimulating herbs be added to the drinks?"
"Hmm, follow the priests' tradition, the first through the third rounds of drinks should be mixed with different herbs. Begin with the enlightening Ebony Jade, continue with the hallucinogenic Bare-Capped Mushroom, and conclude with the tranquilizing Rat Tail Sage. Remember, use only a third of what the priests would, don't add more."
Aweit paused thoughtfully, then answered with a smile. For his beloved daughter Alisa, he had picked up herbology again, a subject he had learned in his youth, and his expertise even exceeded many high priests.
Gillim nodded respectfully. After a moment, he asked softly,