[ It isn't no, so Alayne considers that a victory since men of the marshal's disposition were often quite fond of the word. It isn't a shut door or a turned back; by not refusing her outright, Alayne sees the sliver of opportunity left to her (a seam, a crack, a gate left ajar). If she were cruel, she would try to press such an advantage but as it stands the marshal has given her something already. It should and will suffice for now. Alayne doesn't press. ]
( x i i : d 1 )
Very well.