---
Elena's face remained entirely serious. "I will take care of Kess. The letter has been answered in principle. The servant will be managed. The house will remain quiet. There is nothing useful either of you will do by standing here and staring at the furniture."
Seraphiel looked delighted.
Lily, on the other hand, went very still.
That stillness had a color to it now. A different kind than fear or tension.
Understanding.
Elena, having noticed it and clearly decided to show no mercy, added, "And unless one of you intends to begin discussing servant rotations with me, leave."
Seraphiel gave a soft, scandalized sound. "Elena."
"What."
"You are being almost helpful."
"I am always helpful."
"That is not how anyone else would phrase you."
Elena ignored her completely and looked at Sekhmet. "Lily is waiting for you."
The room changed again.
Not violently.
Just enough.
