"Topher! I am not replacing you!" Boyd stood up as he shouted. "And Gretel don't antagonize him. Maybe this situation isn't ideal from either of your points of view and I'm willing to smooth things over where I can, but I am not changing my mind on some things. Gretel needs the protection and the responsibility of Rossum and you Topher, need someone to help you, especially in areas you have no knowledge about. Like magic."

Boyd took a deep breath and lowered his voice. "I have to look at the big picture at the what ifs. It's not pleasant and I wish I didn't have to, but I'm the only one that can. Sometimes it means I have to make decisions you both won't understand at the time. You will both have to trust me though that I am doing it to try and keep you safe."