Vella was right. Of course she was. Just because she doesn't enjoy high society doesn't mean she isn't aware of how it works. She grew up as a minor noble's daughter and a major noble's niece. Beyond that, she's attended countless events—most often against her will—as a mage representing the Tower.
In short, Vella understands how nobles act against each other.
That's why she isn't surprised that it takes weeks for a move to be made with the intention of influencing the crown princess selection. And why she's not surprised that the first move is made beyond the palace walls.
The only surprise is that Eadwyn refuses to share details of what happened with her, leaving her to suspect that he might not have all the details either. After all, their roles revolve around observing and acting normal. With too much information from the shadows, anybody can slip up and reveal a detail that can ruin their plans. Or make their plans much more difficult than they needed to be.
