Does it separate victory from defeat as well as life from death?
A dignified literary scholar resolving conflicts with physical means?
Roland shrugged, put down his wine glass, passed by Alben, and walked in another direction.
Sounds ridiculous, but on careful thought, it's reasonable. Since ancient times, there has been no second in literature; when writers break up, the scene can be truly tragic.
Who says literary scholars don't like duels?
Anyone who can shoot someone dead instead of bickering.
After shouting two names, Alben "stormed off" angrily, and everyone could see that he and Roland had a "very unpleasant" conversation.
The Cabinet Ministers watching from not far away thought Roland and Alben would reach some shady deal, but it seems they were overthinking.
After watching veteran Alben leave, Roland searched his mind for relevant information.
Ever since learning that Old Macbeth feigned death, Roland had no fondness for this family.
