Oh, no. No worries there. I have my mercenary fleet, and as you are the progenitor you're obviously the real heir. I still wouldn't set foot on Barrayar for a million Betan dollars.

[ He can feel that familiar momentum starting up, the sort that usually results in really good or really bad ideas. He has no idea which one this is yet. It's exhilarating. For just a moment, he pauses to savor the thrill of adrenaline going through him. ]

My greatest strength as Admiral is in recognizing good personnel, and promptly drafting them. In that, my snap judgments are usually the best.

[ His grin is somehow still brighter. Manic and wild with possibility. ]

What do you say, Lord Miles? Fancy having a little brother?