Brand tried to choose Eruein people because, except for people like Wood who are clear-headed clergy, the Cruz people find it hard to truly understand the kingdom's plight. In comparison, even though Flame-haired Nicholas and Curiosity Seeker Gallock were enemies not long ago, they are actually more reliable.
Furthermore, Brand knows that they are not members of the Unity of All Things, so even if it's to prove their innocence, they can give their all. Of course, he can't help but have some darker thoughts, because if he fails, the northern nobles will at least lose two true experts, which might make Frey and the remaining southern Tonyger factions slightly better off.
Of course, this is just a little self-comfort that is better than nothing.
