The Consummation
“The king’s marriage has not been consummated,” said Herode.
“It has!” Damen said.
“So the king would be within his rights to put aside his spouse from the first marriage and to take a second.” Herode spoke calmly, as though his words weren’t directed at the spouse from the first marriage.
Damen stood, and leaned forward, resting his fists upon the council table. He opened his mouth.
Said Herode, “To be recognized by the council, and to bestow legitimacy to its issue, the king’s marriage must be consummated in front of witnesses.”
“Damianos,” Laurent said, quietly, a third time.
Damen still did not listen. “Then I will consummate it, and you will witness, and there will be no further discussion,” he said.