Nobility - Part 1

"How? I made use of my men well enough," Vol said.

"Yes – you made use of them," Penelope smiled. It was a noble woman's smile, the sort that concealed her true emotions. It didn't seem to fit right on her face. "But it was all your machinations, wasn't it? It was always Vol's plan. You never truly relied on everyone. You never allowed your men enough room to surprise you, or to think beyond what you yourself would do… And you've done the same for me. You're content, as long as I stay the same."

"Is that not good enough?" Vol said. "I like you well enough as you are. Or as you were, I suppose… When you bite at me, no matter who you might be, I like you less."