Not us exactly, but the Free Cities weren't always the Free Cities. We forged our own way back in the day, without monarchs or mages calling every shot. We elect our leaders, citizens vote on issues relevant to them, and we don't need a bunch of magicians making choices for average people.

[There's a note of pride in the prime minister's voice.]

But I wouldn't put anything past Thorne. You're clearly important to them and they don't like important things slipping out of their grip.