Malcolm's hand hit the table hard. "Try it," his eyes locked on Arnulf.
Arnulf didn't step back this time. He held his ground and looked straight at him. "It's a plan," he put his hands down. "And it works."
Marybeth moved in. "It's a bad plan," she said, throwing her hands up. "Using her as bait won't pull enough guards. You said it yourself, they're posted on the borders, and they won't all leave just to chase one person."
Iyisha drew a slow breath. She had almost agreed. Marybeth's words settled in.
Arnulf's gaze shifted to Marybeth. "I don't need all of them to move," he said. "I need a gap."
Malcolm let out a short laugh. "You're an idiot. There'll be bloodshed whether you want it or not."
Arnulf's jaw tightened. "I know that," he said, quieter now. "But I'm not throwing people away if I don't have to."
A pause settled between them.
