[That had surprised him, and it showed for a second or two in his expression. Then he was chuckling softly.]

Well, they weren't often appreciated much growing up. Magic, and illusions and tricks, were not seen as becoming of a warrior, much less a Prince. But they served well enough to get us out of trouble as often as we got into it too. Nor was it all my own fault for the trouble either.

Until I regain those skills though, we'll have to rely on my intelligence and cunning. But I value your wider experience with things among the universe.