The Ukai Ruler's smile didn't fade when he spoke - calm as ever, calm like in every single photo, like he hadn't just said the words "summoned you" from a bed.
But before he could continue, Atman cleared his throat.
It wasn't necessarily rude, or loud at all. It was the kind of sound you made when you respected someone too much to let them embarrass themselves.
"But, my Ruler" Atman started, still with a warm tone, still smiling - but careful now. "With all due respect… This meeting shouldn't include outsiders."
His eyes flicked to Raizen. Not necessarily hostile… More like worried. Like he was trying to protect Raizen from whatever would be told next.
Raizen's spine straightened without him noticing. Another habit.
He didn't like being called an outsider when he was standing two steps away from a dying man's bed. He liked it even less because he couldn't argue.
Elin answered before the Ruler could.
"He can stay" she said with a flat tone.
