[ Fou makes happy noises from being pet and showered with attention. Merlin comically huffs at the little beast but with no real heat. He is Fou's caretaker, after all. ]

All mages are familiar with such things, of course.

[ He says with a slight smile, though for once it fades a little at the question. But he keeps it for appearance's sake. ]

I'm not sure either. Not that I'm too concerned, of course! We have a strong group of people among us. If something odd happens, I like to think we'd be able to make it through. Including even if someone plays dirty.

Human nature is interesting sometimes. Both bad, both good. But you can say that about other creatures too, you know? [ ... ] Do you have any concerns? From one magic user to another?