[ Istredd thinks of any people in Castle Thorne, this is the group who is able to make quick choices and understand the full implication of everything they are told. The dangers of going, the dangers of staying. ]

We don't know Sidwell well enough to guess, but if there's a possibility he plans on killing his own niece, he is not going to hesitate to kill anyone he perceives as close to her.

[ They don't know that is the plan, but Istredd from a world with thorough coups. His own people were annihilated, wiped from the board except for a rare survivor. They don't do it in halves, you kill the whole family or one of them could come back later in a revolution. He may not be a leader himself, but he understands the mindset, and more importantly, so does Yennefer. ]

You were trained for court, you know this.

[ Although he doubts it will sit well for her, the concept of him staying behind when it could be his head on the chopping block instead of hers. That is also a risk they are taking, but Istredd is no friend to the queen. His one connection is to Ambrose and he doubts his loyalty would seem anything other than academic. He and Kyle are in more immediate danger by staying, but it's not something they'll change their mind about.

Istredd sends Yennefer a telepathic message only between the two of them. ]

There is something to be said for us having contacts on the outside of the castle when this goes down. You may be able to assist us in that way.

[ This to Stephen, since he's indicated going might be the option for him. ]