To his credit, Lucas managed to answer calmly and convincingly, masking the shock he must've surely been feeling. His voice was steady as he bowed to Tobin.
"Sire, my deepest apologies for not approaching you first, but I knew you were involved in important conversations with our royal guest. I've also already apologised to Her Majesty for disturbing her so late at night, but I bring an urgent matter. Reports have reached the court of violence and rioting from labourers at the kingdom's two largest copper mines."
Celia held herself perfectly still so that she didn't just gawp at him in complete and total admiration.
"These protesters need to be dealt with immediately and with a firm hand, Your Majesty." Lucas continued. "We can't have our upcoming copper exports promised to Moraigth and Tyre put at risk. Given last year's lean harvest, we need our mines to continue providing steady revenue."
