“Well-said.” Claudius smiles appreciatively. “Bravely, too. It’s easy to forget the resources we have, and you’ve been here from the beginning. I’ve always been one for cloak-and-dagger secrecy, trading in favors and alliances, rather than risking open combat. But my alliances have since become simple friendships, and I see the benefits of openness in them. You’d be an inspiration to anyone who fears we’re outmatched. And you’ve always had friends among your comrades-in-arms, haven’t you?”