"That is a pretty thought," he concedes, but the smile never bleeds into his face, its deep-carved features. "But dual governance creates confusion. It is... like parenting a country. When the mother disapproves, disobedient will ask the same favour of the father and hope for an improvement."

He does not press. Only, softer, "My boy, if I could live forever and spare them the burden, I would. As things are..." More of the laughter. "As things are. Do you believe my people would turn against either?"