Michael might not have been politically smart or able to read every subtle shift in the atmosphere, but when the signs were so obvious that even a common man would notice, the situation became as clear to him as to anyone.
He had a basic grasp of what was happening in the banquet hall right now.
The Second Prince stood on the platform, hand lowered, expression calm on the surface.
In front of him was Leonard Vale, the Queen's nephew.
To his sides were the Ninth Prince and the Seventh Prince, who had just finished publicly agreeing with Leonard.
Three voices on one side.
One voice on the other.
Even without understanding the deeper currents, Michael could tell something very simple.
He did not know much about court politics, but he did know one thing very well.
People did not interrupt princes lightly.
And princes probably did not interrupt other princes without reason.
"Arianne," Michael said quietly.
She tilted her head a fraction, not taking her eyes off the platform.
