Point and Counterpoint

"It is the natural order of the world that student succeeds master, and that a master gives way for the final advancement of their student." His eyes were calm, rational thought flowing behind them. "It is the final act of teaching, the unspoken lesson, where the master passes on to the student the one thing which must be learned, but can never be taught in any form but application. The student must become the master, and this can only happen when the master is displaced. But there are many ways to displace one's master, and this is the true point of the lesson you have taught me," he laughed. "The unsucsessful student simply waits for the master to pass on, taking no action to become a master until forced to. This student, while not a failure, may as well be one, for they have not learned the true lesson of mastery - control.
"So what then, does the successful student do? It is really, quite simple." Another laugh, a smile, and he continued. "Wait for a moment of weakness, and then strike. That is the lesson. Using public weakness is, perhaps, the most gratifing method, but not the most sure. When the master finds disfavor with their Lord, or the Lord finds disfavor with his people, use that disfavor against the master. Control the situation - use the weakness of the master to displace them. This, however, has the most chance of turning to bite the hand of the student, for the viper of public opinion is quick to change its target.
"So, private weakness is the best played upon. A moment when the armor is lowered, when the guard is let down - that is the moment that the student must wait for.
"Remember, it is not betrayal; it is the natural order of progression."