Damen was, in fact, proud of his Consort. Proud of how easily he adapted, proud of the honor he brought to both Vere and Akielos as their collective Prince. Watching him amongst the court, it was easy for Damen to let his gaze soften and his approval shine through. It still amazed him, just how gifted Laurent was at diplomacy and winning favor.

When he wanted to.

Slowly, the effect of the glances and nips and kisses began to take its toll. A dull flush spread over Damen's face as he let Laurent thieve his lips, feeling the warmth of them pulling him in, feeling the contentment of his people at his own contentment. His arm slid behind Laurent's waist, comfortably resting there as he kept the gap between them deliberately small. He bent his head. "I think they like - "

"Exalted."

Damen turned from the shell of Laurent's ear to examine the newcomer. Nereus. He should have warned them - should have known this would be one of the wedding gifts offered up. It was too late now, for Nereus approached with a deep bow and a flicker at a retinue of young slaves who glided forward and prostrated themselves before the thrones at a humble distance. They were all male. Deference to Laurent?

Damen kept the corners of his eyes fixed on his spouse. This could be an ugly scene, he realized, a rare feeling of nervousness creeping through his limbs.

[Erasmus and Isander can both be here hehehe]