The meaning wasn't lost to Hakkai, nor to the other man who stood by him. They watched as Kenren stalked away, but before he was out of earshot, he heard, "A man's power is only as good as the freedom given to him by his superior."

But it wasn't Hakkai speaking.

The general balked and turned around quickly enough to glare daggers in Shien's direction before shrugging and rounding the corner.

"Oh my, now you've made him angrier." Hakkai commented as he held the door frame in order to regain his composure.

"No reason to pamper unjustified pride. I stand by that, marshal...Are you ill?"

"No. Just..."

"Angry."

"Perhaps."

"Too angry to see the parade?" Shien inquired, his voice level.

"No."

"Then let me accompany you."

"Please."