"Nor do templars in the ranks have private spaces all their own. You're not military. I don't say that in an insulting way, but there are certain aspects of military life that only make sense to soldiers. If you think this lavish, you should see the First Enchanter's quarters. People in the lower ranks have certain expectations. Their leaders must be set apart, and quite frankly, privacy is one of the only perks of high rank in this vocation, a necessary one given the pressures of leadership that fall on the shoulders of senior officers and enchanters in the Circles." He says it without apology or any sense that it's unfair, because he genuinely doesn't see it as such.

"Had you come to us when the quarters were undamaged, you would have found more equitable distribution and much less crowding. In time, there will be so again. These rooms aren't truly mine. I occupy them only for as long as I hold this rank. Very little in here is actually mine. Were I to leave, most of it would remain for the next Knight-Commander to use." Aside from his chess set, books he has accumulated through the years, and his personal clothing, not even his weapon or uniform are truly his. Were he to be removed or walk away, he would not be welcome to take it with him.