The Circle of Magic (Spoilers all books incl City of Dragons)

['thul]

Galen, though genetically not proven as so, was more chalcedan than six duchies. Of course he would view the skill as at most a necessary evil.

There's no evidence of any earlier skillmasters opposing the skill. Where you see conspiracy, 'thul see the need to protect the careless.

As for accidents to a pillar just prior to stepping through = not work.
as for while someone is in transit = lost in current, possibly permanently, possibly until fished out. Alternatively tossed out in random functional spot.

Chocking is such a bothersome measure. I might see if you taste better than you theorize though, little human.