There has been no need, he starts. Talonhold does not need, does not rely, does not need the strength of any other, he might suggest. Talonhold is powerful enough in its own right.

Magni stands as well. For all that she is uncertain in the matter at hand, one thing she is very certain of, steadfast.
"Out, all of you." Not Lakshmi, her gaze says, as she looks to her wife. This was a measure to stop Lakshmi's temper from doing irreparable damage to the council of advisors as much as to dismiss Dolmar and the others for a time in reprimand for speaking so of Lakshmi's home and family.

Affronted, Dolmar and the others leave, and it is only when the door closes behind them that she looks to Lakshmi. "You said that if you came to these meetings you wouldn't lash out."