"Perhaps, in some ways. Hillingdon has stayed out of politics a great deal. If it decides to be involved, it may be more difficult. If it doesn't... there's no conflict without interest."

He frowns in thought, flitting his eyes around the crowd.

"Then again... Faolan has already survived stopping Norrell taking more territory, despite being a Guardian. If he plays the line, it may not be as difficult as you think. If he plays it well, he has an advantage -- not a disadvantage. He's closer to the information that would help you."