He sighs and runs a hand down his face. He probably should have expected something like that or seen it coming. He can only imagine what he's going to get in the debriefing. "I'm glad no one was hurt." It's about the most neutral thing he can say to the news his men were deliberately goaded.

"I'm also glad they had the chance for some field experience. It's something I want to institute more frequently. The world is changing, and we need to change with it if we've any hope of keeping things together." He rubs his hand over his lips and down his chin. He feels stiff, as though he has been sitting in one place for too long.

"When I take this news to Guard Captain Aveline, I'd like for you to come with me. You have knowledge of your people, what we should watch for and expect. I'd rather her not get it filtered through me." He rests his hand lightly on the letter. "Will you be ready early tomorrow morning? It's easiest to catch her at the barracks then."