Post by Augustus Rainecourt on Nov 29, 2023 19:53:51 GMT -5
“Agreed,” Augustus said, though in truth he wasn’t entirely sure. He could understand why a woman in Florina’s position would hide their gift, but it was unsettling to think there were yet more gifteds among them at court. But Florina’s potential usefulness outweighed the need for hesitance.
Augustus turned to his wife, ready to address her again when @coraline entered. Her appearance was…inconvenient, but he was glad to see her all the same—safe, both her and his son. He smiled at them both. “Not at all, Lady Gray,” Augustus said warmly as he walked over to her, “I am glad that you found us, and that you both are safe.” He clapped Emilian on the shoulder, looking at him warmly before saying quietly to Coraline, “Tell the guard you’re to be taken to my study and given something to eat until it’s safe for you to leave. I’ll come to see that you’ve been taken care of.” Augustus’s gaze lingered on Coraline for a moment—only a moment before he’d take his hand from Emilian’s shoulder and expect for them to leave.
Given that was the case, he’d turn back to Scout. “Lady Gray is a childhood friend of mine,” He offered, partially as an excuse, but more probably as the story she was expected to stick to. Scout was not a fool, but he did not think her a gossip either. As if nothing at all had occurred, he returned his attention to his wife.
“You should speak with her,” Augustus said, “The crown will want their own word, but your meeting will likely be the more transparent one. If she’s to be elevated, we have to be sure she is up for the task. As for the rest…” Augustus scratched at his beard, eyes bouncing to Scout for a moment before refixing on Phaedra.
“There are Eldiour among us. If there is one, we have to assume there are many. Moreover, there was a second attack in the room where the gifted were being held. All of us could have been killed, and yet many gifted in that room walk free. If the queen can’t protect herself within her own castle, how can the people have confidence in our ability to protect them? Something must be one.”
Augustus paused, inviting his wife’s commentary. It was a familiar dance, one they’d done many times before. The rough exteriors of Augustus’s musings were tossed about in the tumbler of his exchanges with Phaedra until something smooth and shining emerged…only now there was a third party. A new woman with Augsutus’s ear.