“Does it strike you as odd, my lord, that Kozor and Serak decided to bury the hatchet?” “Alliances are broken and created all the time,” he said. His voice held no enthusiasm. He didn’t like it either. Her instincts rarely failed her, but it was nice to have confirmation. “True. But most Houses view such old rivalries as healthy.” “Is that so?” he said. “It is. Conflict keeps their forces sharp. The strong and talented emerge, weaker people are culled, and there are ample opportunities for heroism and much growling about duty and honor.” Arland smiled, showing a hint of fang. “And speeches.
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