The Velvet Covered Fist

ELRETH

"I just can't see how being challenged by the people who are supposed to help you can make you stronger," Elreth said, frustrated.

"But, El, that's their job!"

"What?"

"Two minds are always better than one. The elders, your Cohorts, they'll see things you don't see, they'll think of details you didn't. Sometimes they'll be right, other times they'll be wrong. But you can guarantee, if one of them thought of it, there are those among your people who will too—and they may not feel free to tell you. Yet they'll speak of it to others and raise questions. You end up fighting a war you didn't even know was raging—in the hearts of your own people."

"But… challenges… they undermine your rule if you allow them."

"No, El, think it through. I told you, there are two kinds of challenges, and this is about discerning the difference.