“I suspect the Englightenment has infiltrated the palace.”

Stewart takes a deep breath and says, “Father, I believe the Englightenment as infiltrated the palace and is planning to do something to disrupt today’s proceedings.”

“The Enlightenment? Here?” the King looks at his son with a measured eye. “Why do you say that? What have you heard?”

Stewart considers his promise to Tristian and says, “I must ask you to trust me and not ask me for the source of this information. Suffice it to say I would not bring it to you if I did not have full confidence in the source.”

Malcolm studies his son for a long moment before motioning to a man who is standing some distance away. Stewart looks up as he approaches and sees Norbier, the King’s Minister of Internal Affairs and closest advisor.

“Norbier, there has been a report of a possible Englightenment plot to disrupt today’s activities. There may be an Englightenment spy here in the palace.”

Norbier lifts his eyebrows in surprise. “Here in the palace? The Enlightenment? With all due respect, Your Majesty, that is absurd! The Enlightenment is too disorganized to pull off something like that. Why, it does them more credit than they are due to even refer to them as an organized entity at all. What is the source of this information?”

The king looks at his son for a moment before saying, “Let’s just say that I have it on very good authority. I’d like you to double security and conduct a full sweep of the palace grounds before we let our guests in here.”

Norbier notices the king’s look at his son and frowns. “As you command, Sire. I shall attend to it at once.”

Queen Caroline speaks up and says, “Perhaps I should go and speak with the head usher. If the presentations are going to be delayed, we will need to make contingency plans for dinner and entertainment.” She rises and leaves the prince alone with his father.

Stewart cannot shake a feeling of unease. His father notices and says, “Perhaps you should go and take charge of this matter. You clearly have more information than anyone.”