Arik finished the meeting in twenty-three minutes.
He remained perfectly coherent while Cassir concluded the preliminary framework for diplomatic contact with Agaron, Seredin confirmed the temporary border-security measures, and the foreign office received instructions to update its assessments of Wrohan, Pais, Donin, and the smaller states beyond them.
Arik listened.
He answered.
He signed two authorizations.
All while an entirely separate part of his mind remained several floors above, imagining white fabric and gold chains against their bed.
When Cassir finally closed the last projection, Arik stood.
"Move everything remaining today."
Cassian looked up from his tablet. "To this evening?"
"Tomorrow."
Cassian's brows drew together.
Arik added, "Move tomorrow as well."
That earned silence.
Three ministers began gathering their documents with the careful efficiency of people who had immediately recognized that this was no longer their concern.
Cassian did not.
