Rossarm quietly considered Sabine for a time. He then turned to Fendros with a discerning frown. He asked Fendros, "Do you consider yourself a greater mage than Montgrave?"

Sabine's smile disappeared, partly with confusion.

Fendros felt dread sink into either side of his jaw muscles. He took a breath and reminded himself not to be how he used to be. "No, Sabine is the greater mage."

Rossarm raised an eyebrow.

"I am not the leader Fendros is," Sabine cut in, as was unlike her. "I may have greater aptitude in magic, but I do not think I can defeat him."

Perhaps mirroring Fendros' tempering, Rossarm also took a breath. "I would hear how my son earned his position as 'second' from you all, firsthand. If you would indulge me."

Fendros wished he could tell whether Rossarm was genuinely interested or looking to take Fendros down a notch. He twisted his mouth uncomfortably, but stayed quiet for now.