Just to point out that my reasoning is based on Graendal's modus operandi - basically, what she always does. Thus if a villain has multiple bases to escape to if one is threatened, that it would fit that villain's modus operandi to leave in such a way that they are believed dead and won't be pursued. It's more of a contrivance to assume that a character will change their behavior just to befit one outcome.

I think the main point about your second response is that you and me, as readers, have absolutely no idea what the overall plotlines for each character's termination point is.

Basically, I'm not convinced by your argument because it wouldn't serve the story or fit the character personality to conveniently stay in one place if the Dragon arrived on her doorstep.