He wants to embarrass her.

Bathe yourself, Kitty.

I had twenty seconds and didn't hesitate. I licked my arm several times and rubbed it against my face. That arm was no longer anchored to the floor. I licked the other until it was free, and was able to roll over. I pulled my calf towards me and licked the very boot that imprisoned me without restraint. I did the other, and was free, the synthetic taste of the boots lingering on my tongue.

I stood, and as soon as I did the vibrations increased to a level I had never experienced. I doubled over at the intensity of it, but staggered on. I had three seconds. I groped blindly for the gem as I hobbled towards the podium. A momentary increase in the vibrations pounding through me sent me to my knees as I grasped the gem. I had one second left, and only one chance. I gave the gem an underhanded toss, and collapsed completely.