Rodolphus, do not argue with me about who understands the Protectorate better. I risk life and limb each day for it while you tinker about with your lovely little "artefacts."

The reason I resist challenge is because I know that what I do is right. You want me to give in, to put aside what I know is right and just for the sake of your male pride. And you dare to imply that I am the self-interested one?

I could come to you as I used to, wheedle you with soft words and caresses until you let me have my way. You'd let me do what I wanted then, wouldn't you? Because then you'd at least feel as if you'd given some kind of valuable "input."

We both know that what you're really upset about is that I just can't be bothered with any of that anymore.