[ that bit of news makes him nearly choke on his coffee, and he has to swallow hastily to prevent himself from coughing. the emperor here. at least aral is tracking on it, though, and given his lack of alarm, things must be under control. but then, even at the worst, aral has always had things under control-- at least as far as outsiders are concerned. and unfortunately, that's.. what jole is right now, isn't he? an outsider. ]

.. Sir, I.. [ no, jole. keep your damned mouth shut. he rubs the back of his hand over his brow, a hollow ache taking up residence right beneath his ribs. it's not necessary information, and he's not certain how he'd even broach the topic. considering the dancing they'd done around one another the first time..

no. this is for the best. ] Well. [ a breath in through his nose, and he finds his smile again, lips quirking up ruefully. ] Hopefully I can be of some use here, even if.. not quite the same use. The emperor is well? Who else is here?