[ This icy old man can't help a small smile. He appreciates what Lyney says, but whether or not it resonates with him is another story. It was another time. Another life. Would he say the same if he knew the full story? Wriothesley can't know that: he won't divulge the whole thing, not yet. Not for shame, or for regret--only because it seems best for another day, should that ever come.

He supposes it won't. Not if this fiery young one behaves himself from here on out. Another sip of his tea, a spreading of warmth through the office chill, and a brief touch of silence. ]

Maybe. [ He relaxes into his seat. ] But to answer your earlier wondering--I never did say your reasons for acting out were wrong. You acted on what you knew, and on noble intentions. Unfortunately, Meropide's rules don't function on intention.

[ It's a matter of principle. If he lets one thing go but not another, makes exceptions where there's so little room for them...well. Things would soon get out of control. ]

I should hope you won't land yourself here again, but if you do--don't swing on me outside the pankration ring. Understood?