Ali soon entered carrying a tea tray. As usual, he carefully checked the tea before setting it down, then left without saying a word. Lina had long since grown accustomed to his quiet, almost mechanical manner. Even so, she gave him a small nod and thanked him before picking up her teacup. After taking a sip, she continued speaking to Julian.
"Of course, I could find an excuse to put you back on the Privy Council, but what would that accomplish? You'd still be isolated, without any real authority. The Duke of Flanders and the Duke of Anjou would continue to regard you as an obstacle, and both would seize every opportunity to attack you until you were driven out again. Think carefully about what you actually need. Do you want a title that sounds impressive, or do you want real influence that you can put to use?"
Julian's expression gradually softened as he considered her words, although he still seemed reluctant to admit that she had a point.
