A voice sounded near Arowenia.
"Oh, uh, hey."
She looked up sharply to find Michael standing next to her. She didn't deign to answer him, only arched a cold eyebrow. He cleared his throat and shifted uncomfortably. She could smell his fear and hear his heart pounding. When he didn't speak, she finally demanded, "Yes?"
"Um, like, Claudius wants you." He jerked his thumb in the general direction of the house.
She turned back to the stars and sighed inwardly. What did he want now? Hadn't he just gone to speak privately with the other men? Why did he need her? Surely a porcelain doll on his arm wouldn't help seal whatever deal he was negotiating. But, regardless of what he wanted, it was best not to keep him waiting.