[Octavian looks at Hiram, who stares back at him in silence. Then as Octavian turns again to Root,] I do trust your judgment. Still it will be overt.

[Some men in this room are not very subtle! But for now, if all he wants to do is stare, Octavian will mostly-ignore him. He gestures for Root to check a drawer by the sink, where the fanciest knives are. Some of them are even engraved, Sterling & Maria, for what better tool for pain than wedding gifts to his dear brother.

But he also keeps a careful watch on Root herself, as she mustn't stay in this unreality for too long. He'll have to make a judgment call of his own, maybe, if needs must.]

They followed you all the way to Mars? Very persistent. If I can assist you somehow...