But under the table, her foot pressed down more firmly, pinning him in place.
Larus's eyes went wide. He couldn't stand up without making it 'extremely' obvious what was happening.
He shot Heena a look that was equal parts pleading and accusatory.
She smiled back innocently.
"Actually," Heena continued, "perhaps you should stay. This information will be important for you to know as future Emperor Consort. Military deployments, infrastructure repairs, trade negotiations—you'll need to be familiar with all of it."
"I... yes... Your Majesty," Larus managed weakly.
The four consorts were now openly staring.
Something was clearly happening, but they couldn't figure out 'what'.
"Is there... something we should know about?" Damien asked carefully, his analytical mind clearly working through possibilities.
"Not at all," Heena said cheerfully. "Please continue. The dam repairs—fifty thousand gold, you said?"
