[ Friendship doesn't roll that way, Topher. She gets that, it's not like her world is sunshine, rainbows and kittens. ]
The Starks care for honor and though they may take offense, they would not be so petty as to harm an innocent for slander or wounded pride. They have faced slings and insults in the past, your friend is no great threat to them. Nor they to him, though I believe it will take a much grander effort to see him convinced.
A verbal champion is just as worthy as one that matches sword to sword. Not every foe may be slain by steel. Cleverness be your weapon.
T E X T
The Starks care for honor and though they may take offense,
they would not be so petty as to harm an innocent for slander or wounded pride.
They have faced slings and insults in the past,
your friend is no great threat to them.
Nor they to him, though I believe it will take a much grander effort to see him convinced.
A verbal champion is just as worthy as one that matches sword to sword.
Not every foe may be slain by steel.
Cleverness be your weapon.
I would still accept such a champion.