"For political reasons," Valyn pointed out. "To get the Council to accept an alliance with the Citadel, I do need to marry a halfblood girl. And Shana is the best candidate - though I agree she'd be a horrible Lady. Though I'd pay a bit of gold to see the other lady's of council Houses in a room with her." He chuckled some, at the thought.

"No. No, I think Shana would lose what little respect she had for me if I sent you to do my dirty work. I will speak with her, I just want this to proceed without a fight. Or me doing anything foolish that lands me in a situation I'm not comfortable with." He raked back his hair. "This all really would be much easier if she'd just fallen in love with you."