Vyarin nodded slowly, trying to watch the surrounding courtiers without staring directly at them. Nosy nobles, so they were indeed. Many weren't even hiding it very well, stealing long glances at the two of them while their conversation partners spoke with exaggerated motion to keep up appearances, or lowering their voices to hushed whispers when they could see either of them talk. He was being stared at, listened to, every word was compromised here in this crowd. Annalise had the right idea, whispering into his ear.

"I see," he said, finally, when he felt decently certain that nobody was watching. "A shame that issues would form in that way." Was that wording vague enough to be dismissed? Did he come across as too cold to Annalise? He was too fixated on the nobles. "I am not so worried. My cousin Tellos brought with us a number of loyal men. If such a need arises for them, they will serve you- err, your father." He kept his voice low, mimicking her, though perhaps he needn't bother. What were the odds of anyone in that crowd being fluent in Prozdy?