"Maker's breath, you are the worst liar. You were just taking me to task about how drab and plain our uniforms are. Don't go trying an about face now." If they weren't so delicious and something he treasures, he'd throw a cookie at him for that. Instead he lifts one to have a crisp bite of it and washes it down with some tea.

He feels a small thrill of inner satisfaction when Dorian notices his strategy. He likes to win, but he likes a challenge. Winning too easily is never satisfying at all. He adjusts to the new contingency, still playing somewhat cautiously but not without some risk. A completely defensive game almost never makes a win.