Constans wasn't entirely certain what was going on here, but (he thought as he gripped Thais' staff, blinking off into the distance while the Enchanter wetted her handkerchief) it seemed increasingly apparent that it probably should not be happening to him. He opened his mouth, about to register his reluctance, but forgot what he had meant to say when he caught sight of Bethen standing nearby. Although Constans frequently had difficulty interpreting the nuances of things like facial expression, he understood that some part of what he saw was disapproval.
It was unfortunate that anyone should witness this situation. Bethen herself had warned him that he must be vigilant against precisely such a circumstance. It was clear to Constans that this matter would need to be addressed. His perception was deficient.
He recalled that he had been about to speak. Enchanter Thais had already begun to wash his back, and he moved forward slightly to discourage her touch. "That is not necessary, Enchanter."
His gaze following Bethen as she walked forward to address the other woman, Constans then fell silent lest he interrupt.