Andrelious was quiet for once as he let his wife do the talking. I listened, and then offered my response.
“I already transferred funds into the appropriate organization.”
“But Lord Consul, surely it would be a symbol--” the recently wed Arconan implored, but I cut her off with a raised hand.
“I’m sorry, Knight Kooki, but I fail to see the point of wasting ice in that manner.”
Just then, my senses told me to move. My muscles felt suddenly sluggish. I started to push away from my desk but it was too late. The bucket of ice-water washed over my head, drenching my hair and robes.
Everything pieced together as Troutrooper and Strategos stepped through the door and lowered their hands. Trouty had veiled Atyiru from my awareness, while Strat had managed to restrict my reaction time. Dripping wet, I kept my face an impassive mask and turned slowly to face Atyiru, who bounced back and forth excitedly on her feet and clapped her hands together.
“Oops, clumsy me,” she said with an impish grin.
I exhaled slowly. Kira, my usual-alert-Cythraul, padded over and studied me.
“Thanks for the heads up,” I mumbled to her.
Kira sat down and tilted her head to one side, feigning ignorance. Ivoshar had grown, but was still apparently content to try and climb on top of his older sister and use her as a pedestal. He waved a paw at me.
I sighed, and walked out of my office to change.