**Piper**

Out of sheer politeness for the process we were embroiled in, I filled a plate full of food - fresh fruits, breads, deli meats, various salads, and a plethora of baked goods - and returned to my seat. Despite the steady hum of conversation among the covens, I remained quiet and picked at my food.

"Did you get any information from the prince?" Sabella whispered to Sophie, and I perked up to listen.

"Not really." Sophie sighed. "The king isn't ...