He stopped and raised a brow, but I could tell he wasn't really listening. He was too busy plotting in his mind, working out a way to make sure his plan was successful. But I needed him to listen, to give me his undivided attention, so I took his face into my hands.

"The prince will not side with you, no matter what arguments you make. He may not like this anymore than the rest of us, but he feels this is the right thing to do, and he won't go against his father. Not about ...