In the aftermath of what had transpired, and Iliana’s state, Cassian had opted to remain in Lorendale for an extra day. He needed to get Regan back to Nevermere, but no matter how important her health was to him, the good of his kingdoms would likely always take precedence. Likely.

Cassian respected his cousin Augustus. He was loyal to Lorendale, and served Iliana well. When the Duke called a meeting Cassian canceled on another noble to take him in. When he arrived Cassian was already seated, waiting. Though Augustus was likely used to be bowed to, king trumped prince, thus Cassian dipped his head with an extra extreme angle and that was that.

Augustus could see how Cassian’s taciturn manner worked for him as a ruler. If one did not have charisma or warmth, he supposed the way of inscrutable mystery was the best course. And while it was entirely contrary to Augustus’s style, admittedly Cassian’s approach was performed with exceptional skill. Irritating as it might be.

“I’ve been told my niece has taken ill. I do hope she’ll be back among us before long. That her condition is not too severe?” The concern in his voice was evident, as was the practical matter at hand. How long would Lorendale be without their queen?

”She has the best care the kingdom has to offer.” It was both an assurance and noncommittal. These were medieval times. People died every day. That being said, her death was highly unlikely. Cassian wasn’t too concerned. Even if he was, not a soul would ever know it.

“In her absence I am trusting you will make the minor necessary decisions as you believe she would.” Cassian was king, yes, but everyone knew he split his time.

“Of course.” Augustus was happy to manage the day-to-day. If he were asked, he’d say he had been making these sorts of decisions without the queen’s oversight for some time. The prince wondered if the king knew just how much the queen relied on her uncle’s management and counsel. Perhaps it was better if he did not—though no matter.

“If I may,” Augustus continued, “Has there been any discussion of Elena Eldouir’s fate?”

At one point in time Cassian had thought he could fully be king to both Nevermere and Lorendale. He had found that to be wrong. He had to prioritize one kingdom over the other, even if just slightly. Clearly it was Nevermere for him. He has trained his wife and trusted her to do well by Lorendale.

“We have discussed it and she will be put on trial.” He hesitated for a beat, then quietly disclosed, “Her verdict is already written by her own hands.” Need he say it?

Augustus nodded in agreement. It was the only right and proper thing to do. Mercy for an Eldouir would be a nail in the coffin for Iliana’s leadership. If the Eldouirs did not deserve judgment, how could her people believe that she would protect them from other gifted threats?

“I’m pleased to hear it,” Augustus said, “The Eldouirs escaped justice once; they should not be allowed to do so again.” He paused for a moment, before deciding that the only course forward was frank exchange. Withholding his opinions would do him no good.

“As for the rest of the gifteds…given the present circumstances, does the queen stand by her current proposal?” He grimaced. “I fear anything short of decisive action will appear as negligence on the crown’s part.”

”Proposals are but words until action on them is taken.” It was a cryptic response but Augustus seemed sharp enough to read between the lines in that one. Cassian would like to say Iliana would do exactly what she claimed in her address, but time and opportunity was necessary for a monarch to act. They would have to be patient.

Augustus nodded. Yes, they would have to be patient. But within their wait, the kingdom would have to keep running. Perhaps there would be time to move the needle; to demonstrate to his niece that other courses of action were necessary, and to lay the groundwork for them.

"Indeed," Augustus replied, choosing not to pursue the matter. He took a deep breath, thinking for a moment. "Until the queen returns, ensuring stability is my primary concern. I fear some may take advantage of the uncertainty to sow discord...which should be dealt with swiftly and severely. We cannot afford for citizens to take matters into their own hands."

Cassian nodded his head in agreement. Of course, his own kingdom was one ruled with the iron fist called the military, and if respect for the king didn’t make citizens obey then the soldiers patrolling Skia did. Lorendale, in comparison, was far freer…far more open to mob justice. Cassian would never disagree when someone spoke of making things more like Nevermere.

“You have a great asset in the Queen’s Legionnaire.” The best thing Marjolaine had instated in her short rule.

Augustus nodded. It was true, Marjolaine had left them at least one parting gift (no pun intended) in the Legionnaire. Augustus paused, before continuing with a second matter of business.

“You remember Florina Bellerose — the gifted who revealed herself in the aftermath of the trial. Though my niece’s revelation was unexpected, I hope that in the end, it is a revelation for the better.” Augustus tucked his hands behind his back. “It is long overdue that we should find a replacement for Honora Allemeade. I’ve asked Countess Bellerose to fill the position as Advisor of Gifted. No doubt her particular gift of magic detection will prove useful in such a role.”

”This plan is good. Make sure to submit it to the queen. The gifted representation is important to her.” It was Cassian’s wisdom on the matter—everyone knew her own mother had been gifted, her aunt too—but Augustus could take it or leave it.