Damian didn't even blink. "We'll take care of that."
Anya opened her mouth, perhaps to defend herself, perhaps to explain, but the moment was already lost. The garden had moved on from her. The court's eyes had drifted like birds toward the new center of gravity: Gabriel, unbothered and radiant beside the Emperor.
Gabriel tilted his head, expression serene. "I believe the air quality would improve if we walked elsewhere."
Damian offered his arm. "I agree."
Gabriel took it with unhurried grace, his fingers brushing against the inside of Damian's wrist, a quiet reminder that while he wore the Emperor's mark, he bowed to no one blindly.
They turned as one, Gabriel's dark robe trailing over the polished stone like a curtain closing on a show.
The garden remained behind them, silent, stunned, and small.
"With this event," Damian said smoothly as they entered the shaded marble corridor, "I bring you good news."
Gabriel glanced sideways, amused. "Oh?"
