Magistrate Oren closed the ledger, regarding the two house envoys who stood across his desk. "Let me hear it once more."
Veyrn's envoy Crael (a thin, irritated-looking man) cleared his throat. "Delegates are coming. Higher than district, higher than provincial, requesting a full local account of recent fluctuations and any associated Free movement with those fluctuations."
Veyrn's envoy did not attempt to soften the tone in his voice. "Preparations include a quieting of the lower streets, and restrictions on arming. No panic. No open recruitment."
Oren leaned back in his chair. "Preparations for what?"
Crael exchanged a glance with Mera before turning his attention back to Oren. "For inspection, for conscription if inspection proves unsatisfactory, and for evacuation of valued blood should conditions improve."
"You're talking about a war footing."
Mera inclined her head. "Amongst the delegates, it is."
