[ oh, no. Arthur takes a second to sigh and scrub at his brow a moment before clicking on the response feed, and his tone is equally as somber and formal. ]

I am sorry to hear that, your highness. Your family are of a strong and noble bearing, and their presence shall surely be missed.

[ especially with everything going on now; they could use all the allies they have. damn. ]

Of course, if you would like to assume their duties, I will be glad to arrange it so, though you needn't feel any obligation to them. I can see them distributed elsewhere, and - you will always find both yourself and the Lady Lucy welcome in our house, Edmund. If there is any way I can be of assistance -

[ it's an open offer. he will gladly see it done. ]