"The wolf has served his purpose well," he remarked, studying the new arrangement with clinical detachment. "Two houses destabilized. Alliances strained. The common folk stirred to enthusiasm that makes the nobles uncomfortable."
He looked up at his retainers. "The question becomes: how much further do we push before it becomes counterproductive?"
Ser Tolvic, the oldest of the retainers, cleared his throat. "My lord, the boy faces Ser Daven Trescan tomorrow. Trescan is not like the others. He's methodical, disciplined. He won't be baited into mistakes."
"I'm well aware of Trescan's capabilities," Callen replied, the slight edge in his voice causing Tolvic to bow his head in apology. "The question is not whether our Blade can defeat him. The question is whether we want him to."
