“That is specifically what I am inquiring after, Zur. Why are you concerning yourself with my well-being? What bearing does my success or failure have on you?”
“My plan is for the good of the Empire, Rahm,” he stated, “though I will acknowledge it is selfish in that it favors my interpretation of what is best for the Empire.”
“Might I inquire as to the nature of your plan, as I seem to be an integral part of it?”
“Certainly. First, I should inform you that I refused assignment as a Candidate.”
This was a double surprise to me. I had not noticed that Zur’s name was not on the list of Candidates. Had I given it any thought, I would have assumed if my name was there, his would be also. But more than this, I was surprised he had refused assignment.
“I have spent much time studying the structure of the Warriors’ caste since I transferred,” he continued. “As a result of those studies, I am of the opinion I could best serve the Empire in a specific position, but that position is not as a Planetary Commander. My logic is that I will stand a better chance of being appointed to my chosen position if a Commander I have worked with, specifically you, attains the rank of Planetary Commander and requests me for his force. To that end, I am being individually supportive of your efforts.”
“What is the position you desire, Zur?”
“Second-in-command and Commander of the reserve force,” he answered promptly.
I considered this.
“Might I inquire,” I asked, “why you prefer that position over assignment as a Planetary Commander?”