The Minister of Public Protocol instantly stepped back, terrified.
"Image is a depreciating asset, gentlemen," Elara stated, lacing her fingers together and leaning forward, her slate-gray aura pressing down on the room like a physical weight. "Information is absolute currency. The Prince Consort has just handed us the keys to every whispered secret, every treasonous plot, and every financial vulnerability in the capital. He did not compromise the crown. He fortified it."
She picked up her quill, signaling that the debate was permanently concluded.
"Minister Demerti, you will establish a shadow accounting division to process the Red District revenues. Keep it off the public ledgers," Elara commanded, her eyes already scanning her next document. "Chief Accountant Silas, you will coordinate with the Vanguard to sweep the three establishments for physical threats. Leave the staff intact. They are now imperial informants."
