6.2 Result

Damasus tenses somewhat when you move to stand closer. A light breeze gently passes through, offering temporary relief from the blistering sun. Your uncensored observation seems to catch him a bit off guard. There's a small pause before he squares his shoulders and narrows his eyes. "You are implying a great deal, Empress." He cautions, as he continues to regard you. Your eyes briefly glance over his agitated form and your smirk broadens. After casually running your fingers up your slightly uncovered breast bone, you bring them to rest under your chin. His eyes remain locked on your face but his determined expression begins to decrease. "I was under the impression I was being less than subtle." You remark offhandedly, tilting your head subtly in the process. Damasus shifts restless and casts his gaze to the side while saying, "I was warned about this." Suppressing your surprise and annoyance at his response, you casually ask, "Warned about what exactly?" He glances back over at you then reluctantly replies, "That you might come and threaten me should I not comply." Raising an eyebrow dubiously you visibly look down at your figure then back up at the man. "Really?" You inquire, unable to mask the amusement in your tone. "You think I am here to threaten you?"

Damasus frowns lightly as he considers your words. After a moment he crosses his arms over his chest and carefully replies, "It would hardly be uncharacteristic of your household to do so." It hadn't occurred to you that your image might be partially tainted by the last Emperor. It seems in spite of your popularity, some people fear you might choose to wield your power in a similar fashion. You fall silent in turn, spending a quick moment to contemplate this realization. Damasus shifts again, likely concerned about your reaction to his comment. Though he seems to be trying to put on a tough exterior, it's quite obvious to you he's uncomfortable. It seems as if for once you might possess the upper-hand in this situation. While it's clear he's **** to continue the conversation, he still seems keenly aware you are still currently his ruler. You wonder if this is why he so persistently tried to avoid meeting with you. Your brow furrows softly at this thought and you find yourself saying, "If you have no intentions of endorsing me, why did you agree to conduct business with me?" You catch a flash of concern come over his face as he flounders for a response.

Scoffing, you answer your own question, "Because you thought you could take my money, along with that of your true sponsor, without having to offer me anything in return." Your assumption seems to have been correct as Damasus flinches visibly. Regardless of the man's high status, you don't get the impression he was the organizer behind this conspiracy. He appears completely unprepared for confrontation or defense. He moves as if to retort but instead sighs and unfolds his arms. You watch as he anxiously rubs a hand across the back of his neck before replying, "I had not expected you to have as much sense as you do." A sentiment many seem to share that you hope to change soon. The fact that you've remained abstinent from discourse during consul meetings likely has not aided the situation. However, the time of remaining silent has long since passed. If you are to have any hope of gaining permanent authority, this is your only opportunity. Without any additional time to visit the other Official, your hope of gaining an advantage lies with this man. Slight apprehension builds up at this thought, though you do your best to quell it. Inhaling deeply, you take a long look at the man before you and consider your options. He looks back at you warily, waiting for you to reply.