Michael studied her face for a while.
Evidently, this princess was quite knowledgeable.
Michael inclined his head slightly.
"The short version," he began evenly, "is that I was fortunate enough to recognize the illusion early. I managed to force myself out of it—"
Without, he added silently, mentioning that he'd done so by nearly dislocating his own rib.
"—and once I was free, I began searching the premises. It didn't take long to locate the source of the spell."
Arianne's eyes widened a fraction. "And the perpetrators?"
Michael shook his head, his tone regretful but calm.
"Gone by the time I reached them. They left no trace worth following."
Technically true—though he neglected to mention why they'd left no trace.
He gestured vaguely toward the entrance.
"As for why you were out here," he continued, "I carried you both outside for your safety. In case there were any lingering enchantments or traps in the hall. Now that the array is destroyed, I was returning you."
