In the time Meg was gone, Ilithyia had seen to her son, removed gown and washed blood from her skin. The gown itself was perhaps ruined and she considered what was to be done before deciding she would request Caesar's assitance in ridding herself of it.

The blood in the bedroom would stain, but she had reluctantly washed it as best she could and would cover it when it was dry.

And when the smoke returned, she watched curiously. This was important information to be in possession of, she knew, but she felt it would benefit her little. Meg was not one to manipulate. That didn't make it any less interesting.